Cuenca Half-Day City Tour Including Panama Hat Factory

Cuenca, EC
100% of travellers recommend this
Excellent (94 reviews)
Self-guided

Included

  • inclusion
    Other
    Transportation
  • inclusion
    Other
    Professional tour guide
  • inclusion
    Other
    Hotel pick-up and drop-off

Excluded

  • exclusion
    Other
    Food and drinks
  • exclusion
    Gratuities
    Gratuities

Pickup

Check if pick-up is available from your location, you will select during checkout (providers may allow other pickup locations)

Pickup Location
Blue Bird Bed & Breakfast
Calderon Suites & Hotel
Casa de las Rosas
Casa Merced
Cuenca Hotel
El Dorado Hotel
Felicia Hotel & Suites
Gran Hotel Paris
Grand Hotel Santa Ana
Hostal EL Monasterio De Coleccion
Hostal Rest House
Hostal Villa Del Rosario
Hotel Apartamentos Otorongo
Hotel Atenas
Hotel Boutique Carvallo
Hotel Boutique Santa Lucia
Hotel Campanario
Hotel Casa del Aguila
Hotel Casa San Rafael
Hotel Coronel
Hotel El Conquistador
Hotel El Portal Espanol
Hotel Emperador
Hotel Espana
Hotel Flore Boutique
Hotel Inca Real
Hotel Italia
Hotel La Casona
Hotel Los Balcones
Hotel Majestic 2
Hotel Milan
Hotel Moises
Hotel Patrimonio
Hotel Presidente
Hotel Principe
Hotel Rio Piedra
Hotel Rios de Cuenca
Hotel San Pablo
Hotel Santa Monica
Hotel Tomebamba
Hotel Victoria
Hotel Yanuncay
Kuna Hotel
La Posada Cuencana
Macondo B&B
Mansion Alcazar Boutique Hotel
Morenica del Rosario Hotel
Refugio del Inca
Rione Hotel Boutique
Riverview Hotel Cuenca
SA Hotel By Raymipampa
San Antonio Hotel
San Jose Hospedaje
San Juan Hotel
San Rocke House
Santa Lucia House - Forum
Suites & Hotel El Quijote
TRYP By Wyndham Cuenca Zahir
Valgus Hotel & Centro De Negocios
Venue Batan Hotel&Suites
Villa Emilia Hostal
Yolanda House
Pick-up is included in centrally located hotels or Airbnb. If your location is in the outskirts, please contact us for further details.

What to expect

1

Cuenca

Our tour begins in San Sebastian neighborhood, here we find the Modern Art Museum where the famous Bienal International de Cuenca takes a place, it belongs to a select group of macro art events established in Latin America and the Caribbean. We will be able to explore not only the exhibits but also the historical house with its typical architecture. Afterwards we will visit the "10 de Agosto market", this is the perfect spot to learn about the local products and culture. We will also visit the San Francisco market, the flower market, Abdon Calderon Park, the cathedral “El Sagrario”, known as the “Old Cathedral”, and lastly, we will tour the “New Cathedral” which is considered one of the biggest churches in Latin America. The famous gold leaf altar is found here.

Duration 120 minutes
2
Homero Ortega

Then we will visit the Panama hat factory-musuem. Here observe the fabrication of the very famous Panama Hats from a fiber called “paja toquilla”. These hats range from simple inexpensive ones to colorful, elegantly designed and costly ones. Afterwards, we will drive through the “Barranco” which is an area of terraced houses located next to the Tomebamba River. Finally, we will go to “Mirador de Turi” (scenic viewpoint) to enjoy the beautiful vista of the Cuenca landscape.

Duration 60 minutes

The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

Additional Information

  • Additional information
    Child rate applies only when sharing with 2 paying adults.
  • Additional information
    Children must be accompanied by an adult.
  • Additional information
    Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
  • Additional information
    For 1 to 5 passengers, a bilingual guide will also be the driver. For more than 5 passengers, a driver and a bilingual guide will be provided.
  • Additional information
    Infant seats are available on request if advised at time of booking.
  • Additional information
    Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Additional information
    Please contact us to info@cuencabestours.com within 2 days notice to reconfirm the tour.
  • Additional information
    Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Additional information
    Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Provided by Cuenca Bestours Tour Operator

What our experts say

  • icon
    Wear comfortable walking shoes.
  • icon
    Check out local crafts at San Francisco market.
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    Visit the Modern Art Museum first.
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    Enjoy scenic views at Mirador de Turi.
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    Try a local dish at nearby restaurants.

More About this Experience

Introduction

Discover the enchanting city of Cuenca on a half-day tour that immerses you in its rich history and vibrant culture. Accompanied by a knowledgeable local expert, you will traverse the winding streets of the historic district, marveling at the exquisite churches, captivating historical buildings adorned with wrought-iron balconies and intricately carved wooden doors. Wander through the bustling flower market, browse art galleries, and soak in the charm of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

What to expect?

Embark on a 240-minute journey into the heart of Cuenca's cultural heritage. Begin in the San Sebastian neighborhood, where you will explore the Modern Art Museum, known for hosting the renowned Bienal International de Cuenca. Discover the exhibits and marvel at the architectural beauty of the historical house. Next, immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture at the "10 de Agosto market," where you can learn about traditional products and interact with friendly locals. Visit the San Francisco market and the flower market, experiencing the colors, scents, and flavors that make Cuenca so unique. Continue your journey to Abdon Calderon Park and the "Old Cathedral," El Sagrario, a symbol of Cuenca's rich history. End your tour at the impressive "New Cathedral," one of Latin America's largest churches, boasting a stunning gold leaf altar. To complete your experience, visit the Homero Ortega Panama hat factory-museum. Witness the intricate craftsmanship involved in the production of Panama Hats, ranging from simple and affordable designs to extravagant, elegantly-designed creations. Finally, soak in the breathtaking views from the "Mirador de Turi" scenic viewpoint, where you can admire Cuenca's picturesque landscape.

Who is this for?

This unforgettable tour is perfect for history enthusiasts, cultural explorers, and anyone seeking an immersive experience in the vibrant essence of Cuenca. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or a curious adventurer, this tour caters to all age groups and interests, offering a unique opportunity to learn about the city's rich traditions, architecture, and craftsmanship.

Why book this?

Embark on this captivating tour and uncover the hidden gems of Cuenca with a knowledgeable local expert. Immerse yourself in the city's vibrant culture, witness breathtaking views, and discover the secrets behind the world-famous Panama Hats. This immersive experience allows you to delve deeply into Cuenca's history, art, and local traditions. With convenient transportation and a carefully crafted itinerary, you can relax and immerse yourself fully in the wonders this city has to offer.

Good to know

During this tour, you will have the opportunity to explore Cuenca's historic district in detail, visiting significant landmarks such as the Modern Art Museum, the "10 de Agosto market," San Francisco market, Abdon Calderon Park, and the "New Cathedral." Additionally, the visit to the Homero Ortega Panama hat factory-museum offers a unique glimpse into the intricate craftsmanship behind these iconic hats. Finally, don't miss the chance to capture stunning panoramic views of Cuenca from the "Mirador de Turi" scenic viewpoint, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Reviews

Customers who have embarked on this captivating tour have raved about the knowledgeable and friendly local experts who provide fascinating insights into the city's history and culture. They highlight the beauty of the historical district, the vibrant atmosphere of the markets, and the exquisite craftsmanship of the Panama Hats. Visitors are left with a deep appreciation for Cuenca's rich heritage and a desire to return to this enchanting city in the future. Don't miss the opportunity to embark on this extraordinary journey that will immerse you in the captivating world of Cuenca.

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