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Quito
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Quito, Ecuador’s high-Andean capital, pairs UNESCO-listed colonial architecture with volcano views, lively markets, museums and memorable cultural experiences.

Highland Setting and Historic Core

Quito stretches along a narrow Andean valley at roughly 2,850 metres above sea level, with steep slopes rising towards the Pichincha volcano and open views towards snow-capped peaks. Its historic centre, one of the best-preserved in Latin America, is a dense sequence of whitewashed façades, carved stone churches, intimate plazas and streets that climb and descend through the old city. The ensemble was among the first places inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1978, reflecting the importance of its colonial architecture and artistic heritage.
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Culture Between Mountains

Beyond the old centre, Quito’s districts reveal a broader and more contemporary capital. La Mariscal has cafés, galleries, restaurants and evening venues, while La Floresta is known for independent creative businesses, street art and cultural spaces. South of the centre, markets such as Mercado Central and Mercado de San Roque offer a closer view of everyday life, regional produce and Andean ingredients. Museums explore pre-Hispanic societies, colonial art and Ecuadorian identity, while TelefériQo provides an elevated perspective over the city and surrounding mountains. Quito’s high altitude shapes the experience of exploring it: sunshine can be intense, weather changes quickly, and a measured pace is useful during the first day.

When is the best time to visit Quito?

Best: February–April · 18°C
Average daytime high and rainfall by month
MonthHigh (°C)
January17
February (best)18
March (best)18
April (best)18
May18
June17
July17
August17
September17
October18
November18
December17

Getting to and around Quito

How to get there

Quito is served by Mariscal Sucre International Airport, located outside the urban centre near Tababela, approximately 40 kilometres east of the city. The airport has domestic and international connections, and authorised taxis, private transfers and buses connect it with Quito. Long-distance coaches arrive at terminals including Quitumbe in the south and Carcelén in the north, linking the capital with cities such as Guayaquil, Cuenca, Otavalo and other Ecuadorian destinations. Quito is also accessible by road from the north and south, although mountain routes can be slow during heavy rain or disruption. Check current transport arrangements before travelling, as schedules and routes can change.

Transportation

Quito’s elongated geography makes transport important: the historic centre, northern districts and southern neighbourhoods extend along a narrow valley, while steep streets can make walking tiring. The Metro de Quito provides a north–south rail connection, complemented by the Trolebús and Ecovía bus rapid-transit corridors and an extensive network of local buses. Taxis are widely used, and official taxis display identifying markings; app-based services are also available. Walking works well within individual districts, especially around the historic centre, La Floresta and La Mariscal, but crossings between areas are often more practical by public transport or taxi. Keep belongings secure on busy buses and at major stops.

Best attractions in Quito

Quito’s principal sights are concentrated in and around its historic centre, where Plaza Grande, the Metropolitan Cathedral, the carved interior of La Compañía de Jesús and the complex of San Francisco reveal the city’s colonial artistic tradition. Casa del Alabado explores pre-Hispanic cultures through archaeological collections, while the Museo de la Ciudad places Quito’s social history in former hospital buildings. South of the old centre, the Museo del Carmen Alto occupies a historic convent and presents religious art alongside views over the city. The TelefériQo climbs the slopes of Pichincha for expansive perspectives, although altitude and weather should be considered. In La Floresta, murals, cinemas and independent cultural spaces offer a contemporary counterpoint to the monumental core. Markets such as Mercado Central and San Roque introduce visitors to Ecuadorian ingredients, flowers and daily commerce, while Parque Itchimbía provides open space and elevated views close to the centre.

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Best landmarks in Quito

Quito’s architectural identity is anchored by La Compañía de Jesús, whose richly decorated Baroque interior is one of the city’s most celebrated colonial works, and the Basilica del Voto Nacional, a vast Gothic Revival church known for gargoyle figures inspired by Ecuadorian animals. The monastery and church of San Francisco occupy one of the great historic complexes around Plaza de San Francisco, while the Metropolitan Cathedral faces Plaza Grande at the civic heart of the old city. El Panecillo, crowned by the aluminium La Virgen de Quito, is a prominent hilltop symbol visible across the valley. The Palacio de Carondelet, seat of Ecuador’s government, completes the political character of Plaza Grande. Together these churches, civic buildings and elevated monuments trace Quito’s passage from colonial administrative centre to modern national capital.

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Explore Quito on the map

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Neighbourhoods in Quito

Best restaurants in Quito

Quito’s food culture draws on the highlands, the Pacific coast, Amazonia and Ecuador’s diverse agricultural regions. Traditional menus often include locro de papa, a creamy potato and cheese soup, fritada, hornado, llapingachos and soups enriched with grains, maize or plantain. Ceviche is also widely available, though Ecuadorian versions commonly use cooked seafood or citrus-marinated ingredients rather than following a single coastal formula. Mercado Central is known for inexpensive local meals, while Mercado de San Roque offers a more expansive glimpse of produce, herbs and regional cooking. Around La Floresta, La Mariscal and the historic centre, cafés and contemporary restaurants reinterpret Ecuadorian ingredients alongside international cuisines. Chocolate, coffee, fresh juices and baked goods provide easy daytime discoveries, with menus often reflecting the country’s sharp contrasts between highland staples, coastal seafood and tropical produce.

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Best bars in Quito

Quito’s evening life is concentrated chiefly in La Mariscal, especially around Plaza Foch and the surrounding streets, where bars, pubs, clubs and casual music venues serve a mixed local and international crowd. La Floresta has a more creative, neighbourhood-oriented scene, with independent bars, cinemas, cultural spaces and venues hosting live music or performances. The historic centre is quieter after dark but retains atmospheric cafés, restaurants and occasional cultural programming around La Ronda and nearby plazas. Nightlife ranges from Ecuadorian music and salsa-oriented dancing to craft beer, cocktails and late-night clubs, though activity varies considerably by day and district. Use authorised taxis or reputable ride-hailing services between venues, keep valuables discreet and avoid wandering through unfamiliar streets after the main evening crowds have dispersed.

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Best nightclubs in Quito

Quito’s evening life is concentrated chiefly in La Mariscal, especially around Plaza Foch and the surrounding streets, where bars, pubs, clubs and casual music venues serve a mixed local and international crowd. La Floresta has a more creative, neighbourhood-oriented scene, with independent bars, cinemas, cultural spaces and venues hosting live music or performances. The historic centre is quieter after dark but retains atmospheric cafés, restaurants and occasional cultural programming around La Ronda and nearby plazas. Nightlife ranges from Ecuadorian music and salsa-oriented dancing to craft beer, cocktails and late-night clubs, though activity varies considerably by day and district. Use authorised taxis or reputable ride-hailing services between venues, keep valuables discreet and avoid wandering through unfamiliar streets after the main evening crowds have dispersed.

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Best shops in Quito

Quito’s shopping ranges from traditional markets and artisan stalls to contemporary boutiques and design-led shops. Mercado Artesanal La Mariscal is a familiar stop for visitors seeking woven textiles, alpaca garments, Panama hats, jewellery, woodwork and other Ecuadorian handicrafts, although quality and provenance vary between stalls. Shops around the historic centre offer religious art, leather goods, chocolate, coffee and locally made souvenirs, while markets including San Roque provide a more everyday view of food, herbs and household commerce rather than a curated shopping experience. La Floresta has independent retailers, galleries and small creative businesses, and the city’s modern shopping centres supply international brands and practical purchases. Ecuadorian crafts differ by region, so ask where an item was made and handle textiles, ceramics and painted objects with care when travelling home.

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Quito essentials

Currency and Payment
Ecuador uses the United States dollar, written as USD, as its official currency. US banknotes and coins circulate, although larger notes can be difficult to use for small purchases, so carrying modest denominations is practical. Cards are accepted in many hotels, established restaurants, museums and larger shops, while markets, small eateries, street vendors and local transport often require cash. Contactless payment is increasingly available but should not be assumed everywhere. ATMs are found throughout Quito, particularly in commercial areas and shopping centres; use machines inside banks or secure premises where possible and notify your bank before travelling.
Safety
Visitors should use ordinary urban precautions in Quito, particularly in crowded markets, on public transport and around busy transport terminals. Keep phones, cameras and wallets out of sight, avoid displaying large amounts of cash and use a discreet bag that closes securely. Take authorised taxis or reputable ride-hailing services rather than accepting unsolicited transport. After dark, stay on well-used streets and arrange transport between districts, as some areas become quiet quickly. The high altitude can cause headache, fatigue or shortness of breath, so reduce exertion during the first day and seek medical advice if symptoms are severe or persistent.
Emergency Situations
For police, fire or medical emergencies in Ecuador, call 911, the national emergency number. Give the operator the precise location, explain the nature of the incident and state clearly if language assistance is needed. Tourist police are present in central visitor areas, but 911 remains the principal route for urgent assistance. Carry identification details and relevant medical information, and keep travel insurance contacts accessible. Quito’s altitude and occasional seismic activity make it sensible to follow official instructions during health or earthquake emergencies. For non-urgent medical needs, hotels, pharmacies and local health services can help identify an appropriate clinic or hospital.
Do's and Don'ts
Dress comfortably and respectfully when entering churches, convents and other religious buildings, and follow any photography restrictions. Ask permission before photographing people, particularly market traders, Indigenous residents and children. Greetings are generally courteous and slightly formal with people met for the first time, while patience is valued when dealing with services affected by mountain traffic or changing weather. Tipping is customary in restaurants, where a service charge may already appear on the bill; check before adding more. Do not touch religious art, climb historic structures or leave belongings unattended in cafés and restaurants. Avoid assuming that all Andean traditions are interchangeable across Ecuador.
Local Tips
The historic centre is easiest to understand by linking Plaza Grande, La Compañía de Jesús, San Francisco and the museums around the old city, while La Ronda offers a more atmospheric evening walk when open and active. Mercado Central provides an accessible introduction to Ecuadorian produce and everyday meals; Mercado de San Roque is larger and more intensely local. Quito’s sunny appearance can be deceptive, so carry water, sun protection and a rain layer. For a different perspective, ride the TelefériQo only after acclimatising and allow for changing mountain weather. Sundays can be especially pleasant for exploring streets and public spaces with reduced traffic in some areas.
Eve, your Evendo local guide

From Eve

Local phrases worth knowing

You don't need to get them perfect. A few words go a long way, and locals appreciate the effort.

6 phrase groups · English, local and pronunciation

Basics
EnglishLocalSay it
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]
Eating & Drinking
EnglishLocalSay it
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]
Emergencies
EnglishLocalSay it
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]
Shopping
EnglishLocalSay it
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]
Time & Numbers
EnglishLocalSay it
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]
Transport & Directions
EnglishLocalSay it
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

Early Andean Communities

The Quito basin was inhabited long before the arrival of Europeans by farming and trading communities associated with the wider Quitu and Caranqui cultural world. The exact nature of these identities and their political relationships is debated, but archaeological evidence confirms sustained settlement and exchange across the northern Andes. In the late fifteenth century, the expanding Inca state incorporated the region into its empire, linking it to administrative, military and commercial networks that stretched southwards from the imperial centre at Cusco. Quito’s position between mountain valleys made it strategically important, while local agricultural knowledge and access to inter-Andean routes supported a complex regional society before Spanish colonisation.

Conquest and Spanish Foundation

The Spanish conquest transformed Quito during the 1530s, amid conflict within the Inca world and resistance from local populations. Sebastián de Benalcázar established the Spanish city of San Francisco de Quito in 1534, after the original settlement was moved from its earlier location. The new colonial town followed Spanish principles of a central plaza, religious institutions and administrative buildings, although its development was shaped by the mountain terrain and existing patterns of settlement. Indigenous communities remained central to the city’s labour, economy and culture, while Spanish rule introduced new political structures, Catholic institutions, languages and building traditions.

The Audiencia of Quito

Quito became the seat of the Royal Audiencia of Quito in 1563, placing it within the Spanish imperial administration while leaving it geographically distant from the principal coastal and southern centres. Religious orders played a major role in education, landholding, artistic production and urban development. Churches and convents expanded around the central plazas, and the Quito School of colonial art emerged through the interaction of European techniques with Indigenous and mestizo artists. The city’s ornate interiors, religious sculpture and painted decoration reflect this complex cultural process rather than a simple transfer of European models. Earthquakes repeatedly damaged buildings, prompting cycles of repair and reconstruction.

Independence and Republican Change

Quito became a major centre of independence activity in the early nineteenth century. The uprising of 10 August 1809 is commemorated in Ecuador as an early declaration of autonomy from Spanish rule, although royalist forces restored control and the struggle continued. Independence was secured in the wider region after the Battle of Pichincha on 24 May 1822, fought on the slopes above the city by forces led by Antonio José de Sucre. Quito subsequently became part of the Republic of Gran Colombia before Ecuador emerged as a separate republic in 1830. Republican government altered the city’s institutions while colonial buildings continued to define its urban core.

Modern Capital and Heritage City

During the nineteenth and twentieth centuries, Quito expanded beyond its colonial centre along the valley and into surrounding hills. New roads, public institutions and neighbourhoods accompanied population growth, while migration from across Ecuador diversified the capital’s social and cultural life. Modern construction introduced new architectural forms, though the historic centre retained an unusually substantial group of churches, convents and civic buildings. In 1978, Quito was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, one of the first sites to receive that designation. Conservation has since been balanced with the needs of a living city, whose historic districts remain places of worship, commerce, residence and public life.

Quito in Photos

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Evendo: Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide to Quito, Ecuador

Discover the best attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with Evendo - your 100% free app-based travel guide to Quito. Explore, plan, and book effortlessly.

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Maximize your Quito adventure with Evendo, the ultimate free travel guide app. Discover attractions, plan your itinerary, and book experiences seamlessly.

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Planning a trip to Quito, Ecuador? Look no further! Evendo is your all-in-one, 100% free travel guide app designed to help you explore the vibrant city of Quito. Imagine wandering through the historic streets of Quito with all the information you need right at your fingertips. From iconic landmarks like La Compañía de Jesús and the stunning views from El Panecillo to the bustling markets of La Mariscal, Evendo has got you covered.

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