Quito, Ecuador Travel Guide

Discover Quito, Ecuador's high-altitude capital, where history, culture, and natural beauty converge in the heart of the Andes.

Nestled high in the Andes at an altitude of 2,850 meters, Quito is a city that effortlessly blends history, culture, and natural beauty. As the capital of Ecuador, Quito offers tourists a unique experience with its well-preserved colonial architecture, vibrant markets, and stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and volcanoes. Begin your journey in the historical center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where cobblestone streets lead you to grand plazas, ornate churches, and colorful buildings. Must-see landmarks include the impressive Basilica del Voto Nacional and the iconic La Compañía de Jesús church, known for its intricate baroque interior. Don't forget to visit the Plaza Grande, home to the Presidential Palace and the Metropolitan Cathedral. For a taste of local culture, head to the bustling markets of Otavalo and La Mariscal. Here, you can find a variety of traditional crafts, textiles, and delicious Ecuadorian cuisine. Quito's culinary scene is a delightful mix of flavors, with local dishes like ceviche, empanadas, and the hearty locro de papa soup. Nature enthusiasts will find Quito a gateway to unforgettable adventures. Take a cable car ride up to the Pichincha Volcano for breathtaking views of the city and beyond. Just a short drive away, you can explore the lush cloud forests of Mindo or the hot springs of Papallacta. For a truly unique experience, visit the Mitad del Mundo monument to stand on the equatorial line and feel the magic of being in both hemispheres at once.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Quito.

Adjust to the altitude by taking it easy on your first day and staying hydrated.
Wear comfortable walking shoes for exploring the hilly streets of the historic center.
Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds at popular tourist sites.
Use public transportation or taxis, as driving in Quito can be challenging.
Try the local street food, but make sure to eat from busy, reputable vendors.
Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to enhance your interactions with locals.
Always carry a light jacket, as the weather can change quickly due to the high altitude.

Neighbourhoods in Quito

La Carolina

Centro Historico

La Floresta

La Mariscal

Explore All Neighbourhoods in Quito

Explore Quito: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Quito

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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Parque La Carolina

Experience the lush greenery and vibrant culture at Parque La Carolina, a top urban park in Quito, Ecuador, perfect for relaxation and recreation.

4.5

Middle of the World City

Experience the unique blend of science, culture, and breathtaking views at the Middle of the World City in Quito, Ecuador, the heart of the equator.

4.7

Parque El Ejido

Experience the vibrant culture and natural beauty of Quito at Parque El Ejido, a perfect retreat for relaxation and local artistry.

4.2

Parque Bicentenario

Discover the urban oasis of Parque Bicentenario in Quito, where nature meets culture and adventure awaits at every corner.

4.4

Best landmarks in Quito

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Quito Historic Center

Discover Quito's Historic Center: A UNESCO gem with colonial architecture, vibrant culture, and rich history in the heart of the Andes.

4.7

Independence Square

Discover Quito's heart at Independence Square, a historic landmark surrounded by colonial architecture and vibrant Ecuadorian culture.

4.6

Basílica del Voto Nacional

Discover Quito's iconic neo-Gothic basilica, a symbol of Ecuadorian history, culture, and architectural grandeur, offering panoramic city views.

4.8

Calle La Ronda

Experience Quito's rich history and culture on Calle La Ronda, a vibrant street filled with artisan shops, cafes, and colorful colonial architecture.

4.5

Best restaurants in Quito

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Lucia Pie House & Grill (La Carolina)

Experience authentic American cuisine at Lucia Pie House & Grill in La Carolina, where delicious flavors meet a cozy atmosphere.

4.6

La Briciola

Experience the essence of Italian dining at La Briciola in Quito—where authentic flavors meet elegant ambiance.

4.7

Vista Hermosa (Centro Histórico)

Experience authentic Ecuadorian cuisine with stunning views at Vista Hermosa in Quito's historic center.

4.5

Vista Hermosa (Itchimbía)

Savor exquisite cuisine amidst breathtaking views at Vista Hermosa - Quito's premier restaurant experience.

4.5

Best bars in Quito

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Bandidos Del Paramo

Experience the fusion of traditional Ecuadorian flavors and modern cuisine at Bandidos Del Paramo, a top restaurant in Quito.

4.6

Bandido Brewing

Discover the vibrant craft beer scene at Bandido Brewing in Quito, where local flavors meet a lively atmosphere for an unforgettable experience.

4.7

Finn McCool's Irish Pub

Discover the lively spirit of Finn McCool's Irish Pub in Quito, where Irish culture meets Ecuadorian warmth in a vibrant setting.

4.5

Zinc

Discover Zinc in Quito: A premier gastropub serving innovative dishes and craft drinks in a stylish ambiance.

4.5

Best nightclubs in Quito

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Lavoe Salsa Danceclub

Discover Quito's vibrant nightlife at Lavoe Salsa Danceclub, where the rhythms of salsa and a lively atmosphere await every visitor.

4.6

Bungalow 6

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Quito at Bungalow 6, a premier disco club featuring great music, creative cocktails, and a lively atmosphere.

4.4

Xandu Bar Discoteca

Discover Quito's vibrant nightlife at Xandu Bar Discoteca, where the music never stops and the dance floor awaits.

4.3

The Jungle by Old Times

Discover Quito's vibrant nightlife at The Jungle by Old Times, where electrifying beats and exhilarating dance floors await you in the heart of the city.

4.2

Best shops in Quito

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Quicentro

Discover Quicentro, Quito's premier shopping mall offering a blend of international brands, local boutiques, diverse dining options, and family-friendly entertainment.

4.6

Condado Shopping

Explore a diverse range of shopping, dining, and entertainment at Condado Shopping, Quito's premier shopping mall.

4.5

El Jardín Mall

Discover the charm of El Jardín Mall: Quito's shopping haven filled with trendy stores, delightful dining, and entertainment for all ages.

4.6

Scala Shopping Mall

Discover an unparalleled shopping experience at Scala Shopping Mall in Quito, where local charm meets international flair in a modern setting.

4.6

Explore Quito on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Quito, mapped for you.

Quito Essentials

Quito is served by Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO), located about 18 kilometers east of the city center. Several international airlines operate direct flights to Quito from major cities in the Americas and Europe. From the airport, you can take a taxi or an airport shuttle service to reach your accommodation in the city. Public buses also run from the airport to various parts of Quito, including the historic center.
Quito has a comprehensive public transportation system that includes buses, trolleybuses, and the Quito Metro, which is set to expand. Taxis and ride-hailing services like Uber are readily available and relatively affordable. For a more scenic and leisurely way to explore the city, consider using the Teleférico, a cable car that offers stunning views of Quito and the surrounding mountains. Renting a car is an option, but be aware that traffic can be heavy, and parking is limited in some areas.
The official currency in Ecuador is the US Dollar (USD). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it's a good idea to carry cash for smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are plentiful in Quito, especially in tourist areas, but be cautious when withdrawing money and avoid using ATMs at night or in secluded areas.
Quito is generally safe for tourists, but it's important to remain vigilant. Avoid walking alone at night, especially in less populated areas. The neighborhoods of La Mariscal and the Historic Center can be hotspots for pickpocketing and petty theft, so keep an eye on your belongings. Stick to well-lit streets and avoid displaying valuables. Consider using a money belt or neck pouch for added security.
In case of emergency, dial 911 for police, fire, and medical assistance. Quito has several hospitals and clinics that offer medical care to tourists. It’s recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are common and can provide over-the-counter medications for minor health issues. The tourist police are available to assist foreigners and can be recognized by their distinctive uniforms.
Fashion: Do dress in layers, as Quito's weather can change rapidly. Avoid wearing flashy jewelry or expensive accessories. Religion: Do respect religious sites by dressing modestly and keeping noise to a minimum. Public Transport: Do use public transport during the day. Avoid buses during rush hour to prevent petty theft. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake and use formal titles like 'Señor' or 'Señora.' Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes like 'locro de papa' and 'ceviche.' Don't drink tap water; opt for bottled water instead.
To experience Quito like a local, visit the Mercado Central to taste authentic Ecuadorian cuisine and interact with vendors. Take a stroll through La Ronda, a historic street filled with local artisans, musicians, and cafes. Attend a local soccer match to feel the passion of Ecuadorian fans. Don’t miss the chance to explore the nearby Andean mountains, including a visit to the Mitad del Mundo, where you can stand on the equator.

When is the best time to visit Quito?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Quito

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Quito. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHola
  [oh-lah]
- GoodbyeAdiós
  [ah-dee-ohs]
- YesSí
  [see]
- NoNo
  [noh]
- Please/You're welcomePor favor/De nada
  [por fah-vor/deh nah-dah]
- Thank youGracias
  [grah-see-ahs]
- Excuse me/SorryDisculpe/Perdón
  [dee-skool-peh/pehr-dohn]
- How are you?¿Cómo estás?
  [koh-moh ehs-tahs]
- Fine. And you?Bien. ¿Y tú?
  [byehn. ee too]
- Do you speak English?¿Hablas inglés?
  [ah-blahs een-glehs]
- I don't understandNo entiendo
  [noh ehn-tyehn-doh]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMe gustaría ver el menú, por favor
  [meh goos-tah-ree-ah behr ehl meh-noo, por fah-vor]
- I don't eat meatNo como carne
  [noh koh-moh kahr-neh]
- Cheers!¡Salud!
  [sah-lood]
- I would like to pay, pleaseMe gustaría pagar, por favor
  [meh goos-tah-ree-ah pah-gahr, por fah-vor]
- Help!¡Ayuda!
  [ah-yoo-dah]
- Go away!¡Vete!
  [veh-teh]
- Call the Police!¡Llama a la Policía!
  [yah-mah ah lah poh-lee-see-ah]
- Call a doctor!¡Llama a un médico!
  [yah-mah ah oon meh-dee-koh]
- I'm lostEstoy perdido
  [ehs-toy pehr-dee-doh]
- I'm illEstoy enfermo
  [ehs-toy ehn-fehr-moh]
- I'd like to buy...Me gustaría comprar...
  [meh goos-tah-ree-ah kohm-prahr]
- I'm just lookingSolo estoy mirando
  [soh-loh ehs-toy mee-rahn-doh]
- How much is it?¿Cuánto cuesta?
  [kwan-toh kwehs-tah]
- That's too expensiveEso es demasiado caro
  [eh-soh ehs deh-mah-see-ah-doh kah-roh]
- Can you lower the price?¿Puede rebajar el precio?
  [pweh-deh reh-bah-hahr ehl pree-syoh]
- What time is it?¿Qué hora es?
  [keh oh-rah ehs]
- It's one o'clockEs la una
  [ehs lah oo-nah]
- Half past (10)Media (10)
  [meh-dee-ah (diez)]
- MorningMañana
  [mah-nyah-nah]
- AfternoonTarde
  [tahr-deh]
- EveningNoche
  [noh-cheh]
- YesterdayAyer
  [ah-yehr]
- TodayHoy
  [oy]
- TomorrowMañana
  [mah-nyah-nah]
- 1Uno
  [oo-noh]
- 2Dos
  [dohs]
- 3Tres
  [trehs]
- 4Cuatro
  [kwah-troh]
- 5Cinco
  [seen-koh]
- 6Seis
  [says]
- 7Siete
  [syeh-teh]
- 8Ocho
  [oh-choh]
- 9Nueve
  [nweh-veh]
- 10Diez
  [dyez]
- Where's a/the...?¿Dónde está...?
  [dohn-deh ehs-tah]
- What's the address?¿Cuál es la dirección?
  [kwahl ehs lah dee-rehk-syohn]
- Can you show me (on the map)?¿Puedes mostrarme (en el mapa)?
  [pweh-dehs mohs-trahr-meh (ehn ehl mah-pah)]
- When's the next (bus)?¿Cuándo es el próximo (bus)?
  [kwan-doh ehs ehl prohk-see-moh (boos)]
- A ticket (to ....)Un boleto (a ....)
  [oon boh-leh-toh (ah)]

History of Quito

Long before the Spanish arrived, Quito was inhabited by various indigenous groups, including the Quitu and the Caras. These early settlers left behind significant archaeological evidence, including pottery and tools, showcasing their advanced skills and complex society.
In the late 15th century, the Inca Empire expanded northward and conquered Quito. The Incas integrated the region into their vast empire, bringing their own culture, religion, and administrative practices. The city became an important administrative center under Inca rule.
In 1534, Spanish conquistadors led by Sebastián de Belalcázar arrived in Quito. They founded the city on December 6, 1534, officially establishing it as San Francisco de Quito. The Spanish built churches, schools, and administrative buildings, laying the foundation for the city's colonial architecture.
During the colonial period, Quito flourished as an important cultural and religious center. The city is renowned for its well-preserved colonial architecture, including stunning churches such as La Compañía de Jesús, which is adorned with intricate gold leaf decoration, and the Basilica del Voto Nacional.
Quito played a crucial role in the South American independence movement. On August 10, 1809, Quito's residents initiated the first call for independence from Spanish rule, known as 'El Primer Grito de Independencia.' Although the initial rebellion was suppressed, it sparked a series of events that eventually led to Ecuador's independence in 1822.
Following independence, Quito became the capital of the Republic of Ecuador. The city saw significant growth and modernization efforts in the 19th and early 20th centuries, including the construction of new infrastructure, educational institutions, and public spaces.
In 1978, Quito's historic center was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This recognition highlights the city's unique blend of indigenous, Spanish, and modern influences. The preservation of Quito's historic center has allowed visitors to experience its rich cultural heritage through its well-preserved buildings, narrow cobblestone streets, and vibrant plazas.
Today, Quito is a bustling metropolis that seamlessly blends its rich history with modern urban development. The city is a melting pot of cultures, offering a diverse range of experiences, from exploring its historic sites and museums to enjoying its vibrant culinary scene and nightlife. Modern Quito is also known for its commitment to sustainability and urban development, making it a dynamic and forward-thinking city.