Are you looking for the best things to do in Quito, Ecuador? You’re in the right place!
While Ecuador is popularly known for a trip to the Galapagos Islands and its eco-diversity from beaches to cloud forests to the Amazon, its capital city of Quito continues to inch its way into the minds of travelers to South America.
With so many cultural Quito things to do, travelers are staying longer rather than merely transiting through just to discover more of these Quito must-see places. And you should, too!
In this guide, discover what to do in Quito, as well as get tips for making the most of your time in Ecuador’s fascinating capital city.
15 Best Things to Do in Quito Ecuador
Quito is a jumping-off point for all Ecuador’s points of interest. From the lush Amazon rainforest to the breathtaking Galapagos Islands, Quito offers easy access to a wide range of experiences waiting to be discovered.
But the city itself offers tons of attractions and experiences, from historic attractions to stunning natural beauty and rich culture. If you’re like me, you’ll love this city!
I’ve been fortunate to visit Quito a couple of times, each time staying for a bit to uncover the best Quito attractions. As the oldest capital city and best-preserved historical center in South America, Quito comes with historical sights, geographic landmarks, and plenty of cultural experiences, as well as easy access to some of Ecuador’s natural diversity.
Where is Quito, Ecuador?
Before diving into what to see in Quito, let’s take a moment to get oriented.
Ecuador sits on the Pacific coast of South America with Colombia to the north and Peru to the south and east. The name Ecuador comes from the fact that the country lies along the Equator. And Quito, although technically in the Southern Hemisphere, is only 12 miles from the Equator.
The city of Quito is also unique in another way. Sitting in the foothills of the Andes Mountains, the city is at an elevation of 9,350 feet (2,800 meters). La Paz, Bolivia is the only higher capital city in the world. Quito is also surrounded by several volcanoes. Cotopaxi, the 2nd largest active volcano in the world can be easily seen on a clear day.
Now that we covered that, are you ready for the top things to do in Quito?
Let’s go!
1. Explore Old Town Quito.
Quito’s old town is the city’s historic district. It’s been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its relatively unchanged squares with colorful, colonial buildings, historic churches, local shops, and restaurants along hilly cobblestone streets.
Begin in Plaza Grande, or La Plaza de Independencia, where you’ll also find the Presidential Palace, also known as Carondelet Palace. This central square is perfect for pedestrians to explore on foot.
From there, wander the narrow and sometimes steep streets to discover Quito’s museums, historic churches, and main sights like Sucre National Theater in Plaza del Teatro or the Casa del Alabado Museum showcasing art and artifacts from indigenous Americans dating back as far as 4500 B.C.
2. Visit Quito Churches.
Several historic churches are within Quito old town, each with a distinct style, and are among the best places to visit in Quito Ecuador.
From the Plaza Grande, make your way to the 17th-century La Compania de Jesus. The church is completely covered in gold and is one of the top sights to see in Quito’s old town, not to mention one of the best examples of Spanish Baroque-style architecture in Ecuador and all of South America.
In the Plaza de San Francisco sits the 16th-century Roman Catholic San Francisco Church, home to the Virgin of Quito and many other works of art from the Quito School of Art. It’s one of the oldest buildings in Quito’s old town. There’s also a beautiful inner courtyard surrounded by the cloisters that shouldn’t be missed!
From the Plaza just outside San Francisco Church, you’ll see one of the prettiest views of Quito’s old town. Not to mention, you’ll also be standing in one of the oldest spots in the city itself.
Metropolitan Cathedral stands out with its pretty green tiled dome. Inside, take the narrow staircase up to the roof to see the view of the surrounding buildings.
While not in the center of the old town, the Basilica del Voto Nacional is perched on a hill within a few minutes’ walk from the main pedestrian area.
This Gothic Roman Catholic Church has Ecuadorian animals for gargoyles and gigantic stained glass windows. Climb the towers for spectacular views over the church and the city. The highest climb is only for the most daring, vertigo-free travelers, but absolutely worth the effort!
3. Walk along Quito’s Calle La Ronda.
Calle de la Ronda is more than just a pretty spot to take photos. This cobblestone street in the old town is lined with artisan shops, cafes, and art galleries. It’s livelier as the day goes on and hosts ongoing cultural and heritage events throughout the year.
As you stroll this pedestrian street, look for signs that tell the history of La Ronda. And take the time to stop at local eateries and browse the handmade products made by local artists. Visit the Casa de las Artes, a small museum that exhibits handmade objects across several rooms that show life as it was in Quito years ago.
4. Join a Quito Walking Tour.
This is always a great way to explore a new city, especially to help you get oriented after first arriving. Not to mention if you have limited time for all the things to see in Quito, a guided tour can help you streamline your day and maximize your time.
On this popular walking tour led by a local guide, you’ll learn more about the history and culture of Quito, as well as see the top sights in old town and around the city. You’ll get to visit places like old town, famous churches, the equator and also learn more about what to do in Quito during your stay. Plus, starting your trip off with a guide is a great way to get local suggestions for where to eat and shop.
5. Watch the Quito Changing of the Guard.
Every Monday at 11 am in the Plaza Grande (also known as Independence Square), just outside the Quito Presidential Palace, a formal ceremony is held to mark the changing of the guards.
The Plaza gets very crowded (watch out for pickpockets!) but it’s a great display of patriotism. There are horses, a marching band, and even the President himself attends by overseeing the events from the balcony of the Presidential Palace which is right in the square.
6. Go to a Quito Food Market.
Quito has several markets where locals shop and eat. Mercado Central is near the old town and is a fantastic place to get Almuerzo (or lunch)! You’ll find cheap, delicious, local eats and get a glimpse of daily life for Quitenos.
Try a juice or some local fruit. For lunch, the soups and Ecuadorian fish, chicken, and potato dishes are popular. There’s some table seating so you can sit and eat. Keep in mind this market closes by 3 pm.
7. Experience Quito’s Historic Squares.
The Plaza de la Independencia is surrounded by the top things to see in Quito like the Presidential Palace, the Municipal Palace, the Archbishop’s Palace, and the Cathedral of Quito (also known as Metropolitan Cathedral).
In and around this area, vendors are selling local goods if you want to pick up some souvenirs. Plus, there’s no shortage of delicious eats and drinks to enjoy! Whether you’re craving aromatic coffees and indulgent chocolates at a cozy cafe or refreshing beers and authentic Ecuadorian cuisine at a bar or local restaurant, this vibrant area has it all.
You’ll even find a restaurant and cafe tucked into a courtyard just near the small park in Plaza Grande. Look on Google Maps for “Juan Fogonero Restaurant” to find this charming courtyard near the Presidential Palace.
The Plaza de San Francisco is a stunning spot to explore in Quito and one of the oldest spots in Quito. The centerpiece is the beautiful San Francisco Church, which is surrounded by a bustling plaza that offers a glimpse into Ecuadorian culture and everyday life.
Nearby, stop at Yumbos Chocolate to learn about and taste delicious Ecuadorian chocolate!
8. Ride the Teleferiqo.
Riding the Quito cable car is one of the best things to do in Quito. You’ll glide from 12,000 feet (4,000 meters) above the city for unparalleled vantage points overlooking the city of Quito in all directions. On a clear day, you can see Cotopaxi and several other volcanoes surrounding the city.
Once at the top, hike to the Pichincha Volcano or grab a coffee from the small cafe to keep warm as you look out from several panoramic viewpoints. There’s a lot more to see and do at the top depending on how much time you have. You’ll find everything from posing with llamas for photo ops to giant swings that allow you to take in the city views to horseback riding along some of the trails.
Regardless of what you choose to do, remember that even if it’s warm down below in Quito, come prepared with a warmer layer or jacket. The elevation climb comes with steady wind and cooler temps.
Also, be mindful of the high altitude. Quito is already at an elevation. The teleferiqo takes you up even higher. Hiking trails and even just walking can be a challenge if you’re not reasonably fit.
It’s best to take a taxi up to the cable car and back from there since it’s not particularly walkable from the old town area. Sometimes the taxi driver who brought you to the teleferiqo will offer to come back for the return trip. I did this by taking the driver’s number on WhatsApp and messaging him later on. But you’ll typically also find taxis waiting when you’re done at the teleferiqo, too.
9. Visit the Virgin atop Quito El Panecillo.
Quito is all about elevation and within the city itself are higher points. Near the old town, El Panecillo is a large rounded hill with a statue of the winged Virgin Mary. The statue can be seen from many points throughout the city and is unmissable as you explore.
It’s not only a popular viewpoint overlooking Quito, but also a symbol of the city. While you can climb the hill, the safest way to reach the top is by taxi. Definitely, don’t walk alone, and be aware of your belongings.
You can also take in the spectacular city views from El Panecillo safely by night on this Quito by Night tour. I would not visit at night unless I was part of a guided group.
10. Stand at the Middle of the World.
Mitad del Mundo is an “official” monument and museum marking the hemispheric divide. There’s a large monument marking the “spot” where the equator is…should be…as well as a small museum with a planetarium and other exhibits showing things like a model of the city and art.
All in all it’s a nice photo opportunity to show that you visited the equator. The thing is that it’s actually not the equator. The measurement done by the French back in the 1700s was not entirely accurate since the actual equator line is about 200 meters away.
But for a few dollar bus ride to the outskirts of Quito, you can visit the monument and the museum. Taxis will also take you for about $15-$20 one-way. If you rather keep it simple, organized tours bring groups to the monument and museum daily.
11. Try Interactive Equator Experiments at the Intinan Museum.
If you’re making your way to the equator monument in Ecuador, go just a couple of minutes further to the Intinan Museum which is much closer, if not practically right at 0° latitude. It’s hands down one of the best activities to do in Quito, offering a fantastic blend of learning and hands-on fun.
What sets this place apart is the guided tour that takes you through the rich history and culture of the region. But they also have interactive equator experiments along the way! You can try to balance an egg on a nail (I failed!) or walk straight on the equator line (I looked like I had spent the morning drinking!). Best of all, you can get your passport stamped with “La Mitad del Mundo” or “the Middle of the World” to mark being at 0° latitude.
All of this comes at an incredibly affordable $5 entrance fee which spoke directly to my teacher heart. Bang for my buck plus learning and experiencing the unique aspects of being right on the equator.
12. Visit the Museo Templo del Sol Pintor Ortega Maila.
The Museo Templo del Sol Pintor Ortega Maila in Quito is a quirky temple filled with amazing paintings and sculptures by Ecuadorian artist Juan Ortega. This Quito attraction is definitely one of the more unique things to do in Quito.
If you want to delve deep into the artworks and learn about the artist, opt for a guided tour in English. The guide tells the story of Ortega’s artistic journey and the meaning behind his masterpieces.
And here’s a bonus: you can enjoy a cup of Coca tea in the museum, which was a nice touch. If you visit on the weekend, you might get to meet Ortega himself. If so, you can watch him work on a new piece of art!
13. Hike the Pululahua Volcano.
The Pululahua Volcano Reserve is a hidden gem not far from the Middle of the World Monument and the Intinan Museum. Nestled within the caldera of an inactive volcano, this reserve offers panoramic views and a glimpse into a farming community that lives in the crater itself.
From the overlooks, you’ll be treated to breathtaking vistas that stretch down to the lush greenery that has sprung up in the crater below. It’s a sight to behold, contrasting with the dry and dusty landscape near the entrance. To catch the best views, I recommend visiting early in the day before the fog and clouds settle in.
If you’d like to go further, you can hike down into the crater. The trek down into the caldera is steep, so it’s not for the faint of heart. While benches are strategically placed along the way, it’s still quite the workout, especially if you’re not accustomed to the altitude. Trust me, living at 33 feet above sea level in NYC is a far cry from the 11,000 feet above sea level you’ll find at the reserve entrance!
The return journey uphill will take triple the time it takes to descend and really highlights the need for acclimatization to the altitude. But despite the challenge, the experience is absolutely worth it. Although, I would give myself at least a day in Quito to adjust to the elevation before setting off on this hike.
14. Visit Quito Museums.
If you want to learn more about the capital of Ecuador, spend a day exploring the museums in Quito!
At the National Museum of Ecuador, you can find fascinating artifacts and Ecuadorian art. Definitely make sure to catch a glimpse of the gold mask, it’s a real highlight. And here’s the best part: it’s completely free! No tickets and no lines—just walk right in and start exploring.
The museum is split into two levels: downstairs you’ll find the permanent collection, while upstairs hosts special temporary exhibitions. It’s a great way to dive into both the history and contemporary culture of Ecuador.
Another gem in Quito is the Museo de la Ciudad housing artifacts from prehistoric eras to present day Latin America that are chronologically placed from the entrance. Adding to the allure is the museum’s location within a charming old building that once served as a hospital.
15. Plan a Day Trip from Quito.
Quito is the perfect day-tour starting point before venturing off for your Galapagos trip or Amazon adventure. Even better, there are plenty of day trips from Quito that are worthwhile. These day trips make it easy to use Quito as a base while still seeing some of Ecuador’s best sights.
Visit Mindo in Ecuador’s cloud forest. Eco-adventure lovers will love hiking, zip lining, mountain biking, and river rafting in Mindo. While others can take chocolate tours and go on bird and butterfly excursions. Catch a local bus to Mindo or go with a guide.
Discover Ecuador’s 2nd most popular park, Cotopaxi National Park. Hike up and bike down the volcano or horseback ride around the park with Cotopaxi always looming overhead. This is certainly one of the top things to do near Quito Ecuador and one of the can’t-miss day trips for your Ecuador itinerary!
Day hike at Quilotoa to see the crater lake filled with turquoise water which formed when a volcano collapsed in on itself hundreds of years ago.
Or haggle with locals over handmade crafts and goods at the Otavalo market. It’s the perfect place to find one-of-a-kind souvenirs to bring back home.
Where to Stay in Quito
Admittedly, I was torn about where to stay in Quito. The old town is full of charm and authenticity but can be really quiet at night. While La Mariscal or the new town is definitely more touristy with an active nightlife scene.
In the end, I stayed in La Mariscal for both of my trips to Quito. There were plenty of hotels, shops, and restaurants within easy walking distance of Plaza Foch. (Traveling with my 10-year-old nephew and then again with my 10-year-old niece, close-by food options simplified dinner.)
By day, (see Quito night safety tips below), it also felt like one of the safer areas of Quito to walk around.
The neighborhood has accommodations ranging from upscale hotels to hostels. On my first trip to Ecuador, after volunteering in northern Ecuador, I booked a room at the Hotel Rio Amazonas.
On another trip to Ecuador when I stayed in Quito for several days, I split the time between the Holiday Inn Express and the Mercure Alameda Hotel before departing for a trip to the Galapagos with my niece.
A few other perks are the neighborhood’s easy access to the trams heading into the old town, as well as the numerous day tour meeting locations which are perfect for those early morning starts to places like Cotopaxi and Otavalo.
If your Ecuador flight arrives at Quito airport late or you have an early morning flight, the best Quito airport hotel is the Wyndham Hotel.
There’s an airport shuttle to the hotel, as well as taxis to bring you to the hotel. The rooms were spacious and the full breakfast did the trick!
You can also transfer by bus from the airport to popular hotels in the city center or vice versa. Otherwise, I’d recommend booking a private transfer in advance with Welcome Pickups. They’re reliable, safe, and have competitive pricing which you know ahead of time instead of being at the mercy of unscrupulous taxi drivers.
ProTip: If you’re hoping to use miles and points for your flight to Ecuador, check out this guide for tips!
Is Quito Safe?
Quito is not as dangerous as the media makes it seem. But it has also acknowledged its crime problem and has taken steps to improve everyone’s safety. Political unrest should also be monitored even with the government’s proactive approach to handling it.
Yet, keep in mind, I traveled to Quito and around Ecuador on separate trips with just my 10-year-old nephew and niece and we had no problems.
With that, here are a few things about Quito’s safety of which all visitors should be aware.
Theft is a legitimate concern.
I’ve traveled solo in South America to Chile, Argentina, and the furthest reaches of Patagonia. Yet, Quito was where I felt the most need to guard all my possessions vigilantly.
Be alert and watch your bag and your belongings on buses and while out exploring the city. Only carry the necessities which include some cash in small bills, 1 bank or credit card, and a color copy of your passport or ID. No matter what anyone says, keep your bag in your hands or on your body at all times.
Don’t flaunt electronic devices like phones, tablets, and cameras. I personally saw a thief grab someone’s iPhone as they were chatting and taking photos in the Presidential Palace Square.
And, don’t let police presence lull you into feeling 100% secure. The Quito police force is at work trying to deter pickpockets, but you still need to be watchful.
Fake taxis can be dangerous.
Official taxis are yellow with orange license plates.
Official taxis have working security cameras and a red panic button. The drivers turn on the meters without being asked. Also, you should look for a sign on the taxi that says “transporte seguro.” This is a sign the driver is official and follows the safety requirements.
If you need a taxi from your hotel, ask the front desk staff to call one. If you’re out and need a taxi, try to look for a nearby hotel and ask them to help you get a taxi.
Some hotels can get you a driver to hire for repeated trips around the city. This is an affordable and convenient option, especially when you can message the driver with WhatsApp and get them when you need a ride.
Don’t share taxis, and if your driver refuses to put the meter on, get out. Or, if you feel comfortable with the situation, negotiate a price before departing.
Don’t venture out solo at night.
La Mariscal and other neighborhoods have fun restaurants, bars, and nightlife. It’s best to enjoy them with a group. Solo travelers might consider joining hostel friends or even a night tour or pub crawl.
What to Pack for Ecuador
Deciding what to wear in Ecuador can be quite a challenge! Quito and all of Ecuador’s weather is quite changeable. Because of the elevation, the weather can actually be quite cool, particularly at night.
Long sleeve layers and a waterproof jacket are recommended. If you’re headed into the cloud forest or Amazon basin where there is constant moisture, pack waterproof rain boots. Just be mindful of the temperatures when you visit because rain boots can also trap heat.
Sturdy hiking shoes or boots will also serve you well in a variety of places around the country, as well as for city sightseeing in Quito.
How about Quito Altitude?
Quito elevation affects everyone differently. You may need to allow your body to adjust.
Including a couple of days in Quito to begin your Ecuador itinerary will allow you to acclimatize before heading off to places like the Galapagos, the Mindo Cloud Forest, or the Amazon.
Respect your body if it needs to slow down. You don’t want to get sick and ruin a larger portion of your trip. Be sure to drink plenty of water.
So Many Things to Do in Quito, Ecuador!
Whether you’re wandering through the lively streets of Old Town, savoring the delicious flavors of traditional Ecuadorian cuisine, or diving deep into the city’s rich cultural scene, Quito has a knack for winning over the hearts of every visitor.
If you’re planning a trip to Ecuador for the Galapagos or another eco-themed trip, you’ll be glad you planned some time to explore memorable Quito!
So, what are your questions about the best things to do in Quito?
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