Best Landmarks in Quito
Planning a trip to Quito? Discover the best landmarks in Quito with history, expert tips, and routes. Free on web or the Evendo app.
The best landmarks in Quito
Quito, the capital city of Ecuador, is a treasure trove of historical landmarks waiting to be explored by visitors. From the iconic Basilica del Voto Nacional with its stunning views of the city, to the historic Old Town with its well-preserved colonial architecture and charming plazas, there is something for everyone to discover. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the Middle of the World monument, located just outside the city, where you can straddle the Equator line. Quito's landmarks offer a unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty that will leave a lasting impression on any traveler.
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23 landmarks
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City park4.5★48,451 reviews
Parque La Carolina
Parque La Carolina, a sprawling 165.5-acre park in the heart of Quito's bustling business district, offers a green escape for locals and tourists alike. Once a hacienda, the park now features sports fields, walking paths, a botanical garden, and a lagoon, making it a vibrant center for recreation and culture.
Open 24 hours
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Monument4.7★29,556 reviews
Middle of the World City
Ciudad Mitad del Mundo, or Middle of the World City, is a monument and complex marking theEquator near Quito, Ecuador. It's a popular tourist destination where visitors can stand with one foot in each hemisphere and explore Ecuadorian culture and history. Despite modern GPS showing the equator is slightly off, it remains a symbolic and fun experience.
Mon–Fri 9:00–17:00 · Sat–Sun 9:00–18:00
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Tourist attraction4.7★17,448 reviews
Virgin of the Panecillo
The Virgin of the Panecillo, a colossal aluminum statue of the Virgin Mary, stands atop Panecillo Hill in Quito, Ecuador, offering panoramic city views. This iconic monument, inaugurated in 1975, is a major tourist attraction and a symbol of the city.
Mon–Wed 9:30–17:15 · Thu–Sun 9:30–21:00
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Catholic church4.8★15,787 reviews
Basílica del Voto Nacional
The Basílica del Voto Nacional, a towering neo-Gothic basilica in Quito, Ecuador, stands as a symbol of national identity and architectural grandeur. Inspired by Europe's great cathedrals, it showcases unique Ecuadorian elements, including native animal gargoyles, and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city from its towers.
Daily 9:00–18:00
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Historical landmark4.6★17,703 reviews
Independence Square
Independence Square, also known as Plaza Grande, is the main square of Quito, Ecuador, steeped in history and surrounded by significant colonial buildings. It's a vibrant gathering place for locals and tourists alike, offering a glimpse into the city's rich cultural heritage.
Open 24 hours
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City park4.7★12,291 reviews
Parque Metropolitano Guangüiltagua
Escape the urban bustle in Quito's largest park, Parque Metropolitano Guangüiltagua. Spanning over 557 hectares, this green oasis offers hiking trails, stunning views of the city and surrounding volcanoes, and a chance to spot local wildlife like llamas and diverse bird species. Open daily from 5 AM to 7 PM, it's a perfect spot for recreation and relaxation.
Daily 5:00–19:00
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Garden4.6★7,976 reviews
Quito Botanical Gardens
Escape the urban bustle at the Quito Botanical Garden, a verdant sanctuary showcasing Ecuador's incredible plant diversity. Explore diverse ecosystems, from cloud forests to páramo landscapes, and discover unique flora in meticulously curated gardens and greenhouses. It's an educational and tranquil experience for nature lovers of all ages.
Mon–Fri 10:00–15:30 · Sat–Sun 10:00–16:00
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Tourist attraction4.6★4,153 reviews
San Francisco Square
San Francisco Square, or Plaza de San Francisco, is a major historical and cultural hub in Quito's Old Town, Ecuador. Surrounded by colonial architecture, including the iconic San Francisco Church, the square offers a vibrant glimpse into the city's rich past.
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Tourist attraction4.5★3,923 reviews
Calle La Ronda
Calle La Ronda is a charming, cobblestone street in Quito's historic center, lined with colorful colonial buildings, artisan shops, cafes, and galleries. It offers a glimpse into the city's culture and Spanish-era heritage, with a history dating back to the 1400s.
Open 24 hours
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Art museum4.7★2,414 reviews
Capilla del Hombre
The Capilla del Hombre (Chapel of Man) in Quito is a stunning art museum and cultural space dedicated to the work and humanist vision of the renowned Ecuadorian artist Oswaldo Guayasamín. It stands as a testament to the suffering and resilience of the Latin American people.
Mon–Sat 9:30–16:45
Parque Arqueológico Rumipamba
Explore the ancient civilizations that once thrived in Quito at Parque Arqueológico Rumipamba, an open-air museum with ruins dating back to 1500 BCE. Wander through the remnants of the Quitu culture and earlier settlements, set amidst a serene ecological park.
Wed–Sun 6:00–16:00
Museo Templo del Sol Pintor Cristobal Ortega Maila
The Museo Templo del Sol Pintor Cristobal Ortega Maila, located just outside of Quito, is dedicated to the work of indigenous artist Cristobal Ortega Maila. The museum's design, inspired by pre-Columbian architecture, creates a unique setting that blends traditional themes with contemporary art. Visitors can explore paintings, sculptures, and the temple's architecture, all while learning about Ecuador's cultural heritage.
Daily 9:00–18:00
Catedral Metropolitana de Quito
The Catedral Metropolitana de Quito, located on the Plaza de la Independencia, is a significant religious and historical landmark. Built in the 16th century, it showcases a blend of architectural styles and houses important Ecuadorian art and historical artifacts.
Mon–Sat 9:00–17:00 · Sun 10:00–14:00
Cima de la Libertad y Templo de la Patria
Cima de la Libertad y Templo de la Patria is a historical site in Quito, Ecuador, commemorating the Battle of Pichincha and Ecuador's independence. It features a museum, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and panoramic views of Quito.
Tue–Sun 9:00–16:00
Quito Historic Center
Explore Quito's Historic Center, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the best-preserved colonial centers in Latin America, boasting stunning architecture, vibrant plazas, and a rich history dating back to the Inca civilization. Wander through cobblestone streets, admire the intricate facades of colonial buildings, and immerse yourself in the city's captivating atmosphere.
Museo Casa de Sucre
Located in the heart of Quito's historic center, the Museo Casa de Sucre offers a captivating journey into the life of Venezuelan Marshal Antonio José de Sucre and his wife, Mariana Carcelén. The museum showcases the opulent lifestyle of an aristocratic family in the early 19th century, with original furniture, personal objects, and artifacts related to their lives and the era of Ecuadorian independence.
Tue–Sun 9:00–15:00
La Guaragua
La Guaragua, nestled in Quito's Centro Histórico, is a captivating alleyway showcasing the city's rich artistic heritage. Known for its colorful decorations, stunning graffiti walls, and traditional architecture, it offers visitors a glimpse into the past and the vibrant present of Ecuadorian culture.
Mon–Sat 9:00–18:00 · Sun 14:00–18:00
Volcano Antisana
Volcano Antisana, the fourth highest peak in Ecuador, is a majestic, ice-clad stratovolcano within the Antisana Ecological Reserve. Known locally as the 'dark mountain,' its challenging climbs and stunning Andean scenery offer a rewarding experience for adventurous travelers.
Arco de La Reina
The Arco de la Reina (Queen's Arch) is a historical landmark in Quito's Old Town, built in 1726. This elegant archway, with its vibrant orange hue, once connected a convent and a hospital, offering a glimpse into Quito's rich colonial past and architectural heritage.
National Assembly of Ecuador
The National Assembly of Ecuador, located in Quito, is the unicameral legislature of the country. Replacing the National Congress in 2009, it holds the power to pass laws and oversee the government. Visitors can admire the building's architecture and learn about Ecuador's political processes.
Mon–Fri 8:00–17:00
Monumento a la Independencia
The Monumento a la Independencia, located in Quito's Plaza Grande, commemorates Ecuador's struggle for independence. Inaugurated in 1906, the monument honors the heroes of the August 10, 1809, independence movement and stands as a symbol of the nation's courage and resilience.
Monumento Mariscal Sucre
The Monumento Mariscal Sucre stands in the heart of Quito's historic Plaza de Santo Domingo, honoring Antonio José de Sucre, a Venezuelan hero who played a crucial role in Ecuador's independence from Spanish rule. The monument is a significant landmark and a testament to Sucre's legacy.
Open 24 hours
Catequilla
Discover Catequilla, an ancient archaeological site near Quito, Ecuador, precisely positioned on the Earth's equator. Once an astronomical observatory for the Quitu-Cara culture, it offers panoramic views and a unique historical perspective, far from the crowded tourist spots.
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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.
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