Quito is Ecuador's capital, set high in the Andes between steep hills and volcanic landscapes. You come for its historic centre, churches, museums, mountain views and access to nearby nature. The altitude gives the city a different feel from lowland South American capitals.
The old town is full of narrow streets, plazas and elaborate architecture, while newer districts contain shops, restaurants and everyday city life. Weather can change quickly, and walking uphill is surprisingly tiring. Quito rewards a measured pace, particularly when you first arrive.
How many days: 3
Spend your first day exploring the historic centre slowly, with breaks between churches, squares and museums. Give another day to viewpoints and the city's newer neighbourhoods, adjusting your plans according to weather and how you feel at altitude.
Use your final day for the TelefériQo, an equator-related attraction or another nearby excursion. Three days covers the main highlights without rushing. If you are arriving from sea level, consider an extra day to acclimatise before strenuous mountain activities.
What to do in Quito
- Explore Quito's historic centre
- Walk through the UNESCO-listed old town, with colonial-era streets, churches and public squares. Take your time because the hills and altitude make sightseeing more demanding.
- Visit the Basilica del Voto Nacional
- See this imposing neo-Gothic church and its distinctive exterior details. Check official arrangements if you want to access elevated viewing areas.
- Discover Plaza Grande
- Spend time in the central square surrounded by important civic and religious buildings. It is a good place to observe the rhythm of the historic centre.
- Ride the TelefériQo
- Take the cable car towards the slopes of Pichincha for wide views over Quito. The upper station is at very high altitude, so avoid strenuous activity if you are not acclimatised.
- Visit the Church of La Compañía
- Explore one of Quito's best-known historic churches, celebrated for its elaborate interior decoration. Check visiting rules and photography restrictions.
- Explore the equator area
- Visit the Mitad del Mundo area north of Quito and learn about the equatorial location. Remember that different monuments and displays use different methods of marking the line.
- Walk around La Ronda
- Explore a restored historic street with traditional architecture and craft-related businesses. Visit at a sensible time and stay aware of your surroundings.
- Visit the Capilla del Hombre
- Discover art associated with Ecuadorian painter Oswaldo Guayasamín. The collection offers a thoughtful introduction to social and historical themes.
- See the view from El Panecillo
- Visit the hill topped by a prominent Virgin Mary statue for views across the city. Use arranged transport rather than walking unfamiliar routes uphill.
- Explore a local market
- Browse produce, regional ingredients and everyday goods in an established market. It is a good opportunity to understand Ecuadorian food beyond restaurant menus.
What to eat and drink
- Try locro de papa
- Enjoy a rich potato soup commonly served with cheese and avocado. It is particularly comforting in Quito's cool mountain weather.
- Order hornado
- Taste slow-roasted pork with traditional accompaniments such as potatoes, corn or salad. Portions can be substantial.
- Try llapingachos
- Eat golden potato patties, often filled with cheese and served with savoury sides. They are a familiar part of Ecuadorian highland cooking.
- Taste empanadas de viento
- Try light, fried cheese-filled pastries, sometimes served with a little sugar. They make an easy snack.
- Enjoy Ecuadorian chocolate
- Sample chocolate made from Ecuadorian cacao and notice the differences in flavour. It is an enjoyable way to explore an important local product.
- Drink canelazo
- Try this warm spiced drink, often made with fruit and sometimes alcohol. Non-alcoholic versions may also be available.
Getting around
The historic centre is best explored on foot in manageable sections, although steep streets and altitude make frequent breaks worthwhile. Quito has a metro and other public transport, which can help with longer journeys. Registered taxis and reputable ride-hailing services are useful, especially after dark.
Use arranged transport for El Panecillo and more distant attractions. The TelefériQo provides access to the mountain viewpoint, but onward walking involves high-altitude terrain. Traffic can be heavy, so leave generous time for journeys across the city.
Good to know
- Quito sits around 2,850 metres above sea level. Take altitude symptoms seriously and acclimatise gradually.
- Mountain weather changes quickly, with strong sunshine, cool evenings and sudden rain.
- Use normal urban security precautions and check official travel advice, particularly for unfamiliar districts.
- Carry layers, waterproof protection and sunscreen even on cloudy days.
- Avoid strenuous hiking immediately after arriving from sea level.
- Some churches and museums have restrictions on photography or access during religious services.