Welcome to Quito, one of the most beautiful and enchanting cities in South America! With its stunning architecture, rich history, and vibrant culture, this city never disappoints visitors. Whether you’re a first-time traveler or a seasoned explorer, there’s always something new and exciting to discover in Quito. In this post, we’ll be highlighting some of the best attractions and things to do in this amazing city. So, grab a cup of coffee and get ready to explore Quito like a local!
The 31 Best Fun Activities To Do In Quito
- Private Transfer Service Quito International Airport Hotel
- Quito City Tour Teleferico Pichincha Volcano Hike
- Quilotoa Full Day
- Tour Andes 5 Nights 6 Days
- Quilotoa Plus Cotopaxi Tour One Day
- Middle of the World Cable Car and Quito City Tour
- History Urban Legends of Quito and the Middle of the World
- Andes and Amazon Experience
- Quito City Tour and Equator Line
- Cable Car and Quito Private City Tour
- Quito Extremo and Mitad Del Mundo
- Cotopaxi Biking and Hiking
- Mountain Bike in the Middle of the World
- Quito Old Town and Middle of the World Shared Tour
- Cotopaxi Quilotoa Banos and Jungle of Ecuador 6d 5n
- Old Town Quito Visiting Domes Towers and Secret Places Inside the Convents
- Airport Transfer Service in Quito City
- Quito Half Day City Explorer Historical Quito
- Private the Original Quito City Tour in Trolley
- Quito Discovery Walking Tour
- Quito Teleferiqo Cable Car Private Tour
- Full Day Otavalo Tour
- Discovering Ecuador by Public Bus
- Galapagos and Mainland Ecuador See Almost It All in 11 Days 1st Class Traveling
- 2 Days Private Excursion to Cotopaxi and Quilotoa
- Quito City Tour With Teleferico
- Quito City Sightseeing Tour Including Teleferico Cable Car Ride and Volcano Hike
- Cotopaxi National Park Hacienda from Quito
- Quito City Tour Including Teleferico and Mitad Del Mundo
- Quito City Tour Hop on Hop Off
- Quito Combo Tour Middle of the World Monument and Pululahua Hike
The 31 Best Fun Activities To Do In Quito
1. Private Transfer Service Quito International Airport Hotel
Looking for a private transfer service from Quito International Airport to your hotel? Look no further! Our service offers you the opportunity to journey to the ‘Middle of the World’ and visit the Pululahua Crater Intinan Museum, along with other Quito city highlights. A friendly, certified English/Spanish-speaking guide will accompany you, sharing local customs and traditions. You’ll get to take in epic city views from atop Teleférico and enjoy round-trip transportation by private vehicle. Please note that admission to Mitad del Mundo is not included, and hotels outside of the city limits may incur an additional charge for pick-up and drop-off. Join us for an unforgettable experience in Quito!
2. Quito City Tour Teleferico Pichincha Volcano Hike
Discover some of Quito’s best attractions on this tour that takes you to the must-see places in the city. Your journey begins with a visit to Panecillo Hill, offering panoramic views of the city. You’ll then move on to the Basilica Church and the San Juan Mirador for a magnificent view of Quito’s colonial center. Take a stroll through the old city streets, passing by Independence Plaza, the cathedral and the Government Palace. Other historical sites on this tour include La Ronda Street, the Company Church, Santo Domingo Church, Sagrario Church, and San Francisco Church. Enjoy a cable car ride with Teleferico Quito, which offers fantastic views of the city, valleys, and snow-capped mountains. Your tour also includes a hike around Ruco Pichincha volcano, making for a delightful and unforgettable experience.
3. Quilotoa Full Day
Explore the breathtaking Quilotoa Lagoon on this full-day tour. Private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle will take you to the lagoon, where you’ll have the opportunity to admire its incredible turquoise waters. Lunch is included as part of the tour.
The tour begins at 8:00 AM, when passengers will be picked up in their hotel lobby. The tour includes a visit to other attractions in the area (not specified).
This is a private tour/activity, so only your group will participate. Confirmation will be received at the time of booking. Please note that this tour is not wheelchair accessible, but it is located close to public transportation. Infants must sit on laps, and most travelers can participate.
You can cancel the tour up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund. Cancellation within 24 hours of the start time will not result in a refund. If you need to make any changes to your booking, please do so at least 24 hours before the start of the tour.
4. Tour Andes 5 Nights 6 Days
Looking to experience the best of Ecuador’s stunning natural attractions? Then be sure to book the Tour Andes 5 Nights 6 Days. This 3-day tour is perfect for first-time visitors who want to explore the beauty of Ecuador without having to worry about the logistics. With a private guide at your side, you can tick off must-see highlights such as Baños Quilotoa Lagoon and Cotopaxi National Park. Forget about language barriers and delve deeper into the local culture, and let someone else handle the driving so that you can soak up the exceptional scenery. Plus, you’ll love the freedom to tailor your itinerary to your individual interests. The tour is all-inclusive: breakfast, two lunches, admission tickets, transfers and accommodation are included in the price. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable journey through Ecuador’s Andes mountains!
5. Quilotoa Plus Cotopaxi Tour One Day
Don’t let limited time in Quito stop you from seeing two of the country’s most captivating natural attractions. With this private day tour, you can visit both the Cotopaxi National Park and the Quilotoa Lagoon in just one day. Since your private guide will be driving, you’ll have more time to relax and take in the scenic beauty around you, while still enjoying complete control over your itinerary. You’ll be picked up from your hotel in Quito, and then you’ll be on your way to explore the Cotopaxi National Park, Laguna de Limpiopungo, and more. Admission tickets are included for all the stops, and a delicious lunch is also included to keep you fueled up throughout the day. Don’t worry about finding a meeting point, simply relax as you’ll be picked up directly from your hotel.
6. Middle of the World Cable Car and Quito City Tour
Explore the best of Quito in just one day during this comprehensive city tour. Benefit from the insight of a certified tour guide throughout your journey and enjoy comfortable and secure private transportation to all the mentioned visits. Discover key attractions such as the Equator Line Museum and ride the cable car for stunning panoramic views of the city. Enjoy a tour of the old town, visit the Basilica del Voto Nacional and the Intiñan Solar Museum as you learn about the culture and history of Quito. Lunch is included in this all-encompassing tour, making it the perfect choice for visitors with limited time in the city. The meeting point is at Nu House Boutique Hotel on Reina Victoria Quito. Just ask for “Plaza Foch” located at La Marisca to embark on this unforgettable adventure in Quito.
7. History Urban Legends of Quito and the Middle of the World
This tour takes you on a journey to discover the history and urban legends of Quito and the Middle of the World. You’ll visit the famous Basilica del Voto Nacional and enjoy panoramic views of Quito from the top of El Panecillo. The tour includes entrance to the Middle of the World, where you’ll have the opportunity to stand on the equator line.
The tour starts with pickup from the Holiday Inn Express Quito, and a professional guide will accompany you throughout the trip. Entrance fees to churches are included in the package, and you’ll have the option to buy admission tickets for the Basilica del Voto Nacional.
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours and finishes back at the starting point. Infants must sit on their parents’ laps, and the tour is not wheelchair accessible. Confirmation will be received at the time of booking, and you’ll have the flexibility to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
8. Andes and Amazon Experience
This tour is a 4-day adventure through Ecuador’s Amazon Rainforest, offering an extensive list of experiences that may be challenging to organize on your own. You will hike along the Avenue of the Waterfalls, go tubing on the Arajuno River, and bathe in natural hot springs at the foot of the Andes, among other activities—all with the guidance of a local tour guide. Your transportation, accommodation, and activities as per the itinerary are all included in the price, making it a great value for first-time visitors to Ecuador’s Amazon. The tour includes private transportation, canoe rides, and meals indicated in the itinerary, with drinks and extra meals available for purchase. You will be picked up from your hotel or address within Quito’s district at 8:00 a.m. on the first day of the tour.
9. Quito City Tour and Equator Line
Discover the scenic wonders of Quito with a private full-day tour that covers three of the most popular city attractions. Marvel at the UNESCO-listed historic center, including the Panecillo, Basilica, and the San Fransisco Monastery. Follow it up with a visit to the Equator Line at the Intiñan Museum, where you can enjoy a range of interactive exhibits. Finally, be prepared to be amazed by the views from the Pululahua Crater and its cloud forest. This value-packed tour includes hotel pickup, all activities, and lunch. Customize the itinerary based on your interests, and enjoy personalized attention from your guide who will be both professional and knowledgeable.
10. Cable Car and Quito Private City Tour
After being collected from your hotel, embark on a half-day private tour of Quito’s main attractions. The adventure begins with a cable car ascent to an altitude of 4100 meters (13000 feet), providing spectacular views of the city. Take a leisurely stroll around the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Quito’s historic center, stopping to visit major landmarks like the Presidential Palace, La Ronda and the Cathedral. This personalized experience, led by a certified English-speaking guide, allows you to see the city at your own pace, focusing only on the sights that interest you. Private transport, meals and entrance fees are all included. The tour starts at 9:00 a.m. with pickup from your hotel or address within Quito’s district.
11. Quito Extremo and Mitad Del Mundo
This full-day tour from Quito takes you to the small town of Machachi, Cotopaxi National Park, La Casa del Arbol, and Devil’s Cauldron waterfall with a bilingual guide. The tour includes entrance fees to La Casa del Arbol and Devil’s Cauldron waterfall. Swing on top of a mountain alongside the Tungurahua volcano and take a cable car ride over Pastaza River with scenic views. This adventure-filled tour is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Pickup details will be confirmed until 9:00 pm the day before. Food, drinks, and other details not specified are not included.
12. Cotopaxi Biking and Hiking
Cotopaxi National Park is one of the most beautiful natural areas in Ecuador, and this tour offers a great way to explore it. With a skilled English speaking guide, you’ll bike and hike through some of the park’s most amazing trails. You’ll enjoy lunch along the way, and you’ll also receive a helmet and tips for soft or energy drinks. This experience requires a moderate physical fitness level, and it’s not recommended for pregnant travelers, or those with heart problems or serious medical conditions. Infant seats are available, but the tour is not wheelchair accessible. The tour begins at 7:00 AM at a designated meeting point which can be selected during booking, and ends back at the same point. Confirmation of your booking will be received at the time of booking, and this experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed for any reason. If the experience is canceled due to poor weather, an alternative date or full refund will be offered. Additionally, this experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If the minimum isn’t met, a different date or refund will be offered.
13. Mountain Bike in the Middle of the World
Begin your day with a tour of two of Quito’s must-see attractions in one trip. Explore Otavalo Market, the largest indigenous market in the world, before a scenic bike ride to the Middle of the World monument. With a bilingual guide and a small group limited to 15, enjoy personalized attention and overcome the language barrier. Lunch and soda/pop are included, as well as the convenience of leaving the driving to someone else. The tour starts at 7:00 AM, with the option of meeting directly or requesting pickup. The activity ends back where it began. Cover more of Quito’s top destinations in less time by booking this convenient combo tour.
14. Quito Old Town and Middle of the World Shared Tour
This full-day guided tour takes you to the top attractions of Quito and surrounds, saving you time and energy. From the steep hills of the city to the Intiñan Museum, get a comprehensive look at the region from your personal bilingual guide. Travel in comfort with private transportation and enjoy a personalized experience perfect for time-pressed travelers. Visit the Basilica, La Compañia, Intiñan Museum and other popular sights, while your guide provides in-depth knowledge about each location. Lunch and round-trip transportation from all Quito accommodations are provided for a hassle-free day.
15. Cotopaxi Quilotoa Banos and Jungle of Ecuador 6d 5n
Discover the best Ecuador attractions in just 6 days on this private tour with your dedicated guide. Explore Cotopaxi National Park, Banos, Quilotoa Lagoon, and the Amazon rainforest. This tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off and all meals, so you don’t have to worry about anything. On day 1, we’ll visit Cotopaxi National Park, stopping at four locations throughout the day. Then on day 2, we’ll head to Quilotoa. The rest of the itinerary will be planned with your guide, who will take care of all transfers and activities. This is an excellent way to see more of Ecuador in a shorter amount of time, and with the convenience of a personal guide.
16. Old Town Quito Visiting Domes Towers and Secret Places Inside the Convents
Old Town Quito is a must-see UNESCO World Heritage site full of colonial architecture and historic churches. On this small-group walking tour, you will visit two of the city’s most important churches and explore lesser-known attractions. You will climb up to the dome of the Santo Domingo Church to enjoy the stunning view over Quito and visit the Church of the Society of Jesus, also known as the “Golden Church”. Along the way, you will have plenty of photo opportunities and discover hidden gems with your bilingual guide. The tour also includes admission tickets to the two main attractions visited. The meeting point is at the Independence Square, where the tour begins at 10:00 AM and ends at the same location. Food and drinks are not included. The small-group experience ensures a maximum of 12 people on the tour.
17. Airport Transfer Service in Quito City
Discover the wonders of Quito City with our convenient and reliable airport transfer service. You will be greeted by our English-speaking Certified Naturalist Guide-Chauffeur who will provide you with useful tourist information to ensure a smooth and enjoyable ride.
Our airport transfer service includes a pickup from various points in the city, with the option to select your preferred pickup point. We can also drop you off at any location within Quito City, simply inform us of your address.
Expect a comfortable and safe journey with our professional and experienced guide-chauffeur. However, please note that this experience is not recommended for travelers with back problems or serious medical conditions, and it is not wheelchair accessible.
Cancellation and weather policies apply to this experience. Confirmation will be received at the time of booking. Don’t miss out on exploring the best attractions and things to do in Quito with our Airport Transfer Service.
18. Quito Half Day City Explorer Historical Quito
Visit Quito’s historic center, the largest and best preserved in South America, on board a replica of the trams that circulated in the city in the last century. Admire the churches and colonial monuments of the city and make stops at the Basilica del Voto Nacional Church and the iconic Panecillo viewpoint to admire the “Winged Virgin” statue and take in views of colonial and modern Quito. Continue to the Plaza de San Francisco, full of history, and walk to the Plaza Grande, the historical and political center of the city. Join this half-day city explorer tour for an unforgettable experience.
19. Private the Original Quito City Tour in Trolley
Explore Quito’s rich history and culture with our Private the Original Quito City Tour in Trolley. This tour offers the convenience of pick up from selected hotels and is led by a professional guide. The tour includes entry fees to churches and gratuities, and does not include food and drink.
You can choose to head directly to the meeting point or request pick up from specific hotels. The meeting point is at the Holiday Inn Express Quito an IHG Hotel, located at Av. Francisco de Orellana E6-54 Y Quito 170522 Ecuador. Pick up times vary depending on the day, and specific times and pick-up points can be chosen from a provided list.
The activity ends back at the meeting point. During this tour, you’ll explore the best attractions and things to do in Quito, from its rich architecture and historic churches to the local markets and cultural hotspots. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to immerse yourself in Quito’s vibrant tourism scene with this memorable and informative tour.
20. Quito Discovery Walking Tour
Experience the best of Quito on this 4-hour walking tour through the historic and cultural heart of the city. Your certified local guide will lead you through the cobblestone streets to discover the vibrant and colorful Mercado Central where locals buy their daily supplies and sample authentic Ecuadorian dishes. You’ll also visit the Independence Plaza where you’ll admire the Independence Monument, Government Palace, and the Archbishop’s Palace. Take in the colonial charm of the La Compañía de Jesús, a Jesuit church boasting an elaborate façade made entirely out of volcanic stone and an interior rich in history, culture, and traditions. This comprehensive tour of Quito is the perfect way to soak up the atmosphere of this sky-high capital and enjoy an authentic, immersive experience.
21. Quito Teleferiqo Cable Car Private Tour
Take in the spectacular views of Quito and its surrounds on this private tour of the TeleferiQo cable car. Your driver will pick you up from your hotel and take you to the cable car, where you’ll soar high above the city to the observation deck. From over 13,000 feet above sea level, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of Quito, the Pichincha Volcano and – on a clear day – several other Andean Mountains in the distance. Choose from several tour times to fit your schedule, and enjoy a personalized experience with your private guide. The fee for this tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle, all fees and taxes, and an English or Spanish-speaking guide. Any gratuities, personal expenses or items not specified are not included.
22. Full Day Otavalo Tour
Departing from Quito, this full-day tour takes you on an adventure through the Guayllabamba valley towards the town of Cayambe. After crossing the equator, you’ll head to the Mercado de Ponchos, South America’s largest indigenous market, where you can shop for unique souvenirs like tagua nut jewelry, hand-painted trays, and woolen spools. Continuing the journey towards the Peguche waterfall, a popular spot for locals to bathe during the sacred Inti Raymi festival. Finally, pay a visit to the Ñanda Mañachi cultural house, where you can learn more about the people of Otavalo. Transport is included in the tour, as is the services of a bilingual English and Spanish-speaking guide. Additionally, you’ll have the opportunity to go on a hike to the Peguche waterfall, visit the Otavalo Market, and take in cultural music at Casa Ñanda Mañachi.
23. Discovering Ecuador by Public Bus
Discover the best of Ecuador on a 17-day tour that takes you to the top cultural and natural attractions via scenic public bus routes. This tour offers a mix of guided sightseeing and free time for exploration, allowing you to experience Ecuador like a local with insider tips from your knowledgeable guide. Some of the highlights include exploring Old Town Quito and visiting the famous Otavalo Market before hiking around Cuicocha Lake. You’ll also visit Tena and the Liana Jungle, as well as the stunning Baños and Isla de Plata. Enjoy personalized attention in a small group limited to 12, and savor breakfast and lunch on select days. All activities mentioned in the program are included. Meeting and pickup details will be provided upon booking.
24. Galapagos and Mainland Ecuador See Almost It All in 11 Days 1st Class Traveling
Save yourself time and hassle by taking an 11-day tour that covers the best of mainland Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands with expert guidance. This small-group tour ensures personalized attention from your guide, who will take care of arranging your transfers, tours, activities, meals, and accommodation. You will visit top attractions in Quito, Otavalo, Quilotoa, and the Galapagos Islands, all in air-conditioned transport. You don’t need to worry about language barriers or finding a meeting point, as daily hotel pickup and drop-off are included. The tour includes five nights of lodging and almost all entry fees, with the exception of the Galapagos airport park entry fee ($100 USD), airfare, alcohol, travel insurance, government-imposed visa fees, the Galapagos ‘migration fee’, and the Galapagos park airport tax. Experience the best of Ecuador in comfort and ease with this first-class travel option.
25. 2 Days Private Excursion to Cotopaxi and Quilotoa
The 2 Days Private Excursion to Cotopaxi and Quilotoa is a perfect opportunity to explore two of the most beautiful natural sites in Ecuador. On the first day, travelers will visit the stunning Cotopaxi National Park, where they will be mesmerized by magnificent views of the Cotopaxi Volcano. During the day, there will be four stops at different points of interest within the park, and travelers will have the chance to experience the local indigenous culture by visiting their huts.
On the second day, travelers will be taken to the Quilotoa Crater Lake, where they will have the opportunity to hike around the lake and see the captivating turquoise water. The tour includes four stops along the way, and travelers will also have the chance to explore the local towns and learn about the traditional way of life in the Andes Mountains.
The tour includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner, as well as drinks and entrance fees to indigenous huts. Additionally, travelers will have the option to ride mules or horses to explore the sites. Pickup will be done at 8:00 a.m. from the address or hotel where travelers will stay the night before the excursion.
Confirmation will be received at the time of booking, and travelers should note that the tour is not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious medical conditions. Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level, but the tour is not wheelchair accessible. Infant seats are available upon request.
The experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed for any reason. Any cancellation or amendment will result in the amount paid not being refunded. Overall, the 2 Days Private Excursion to Cotopaxi and Quilotoa is an unforgettable opportunity to discover the beauty and charm of two of Ecuador’s most impressive sites.
26. Quito City Tour With Teleferico
Combine a comprehensive city tour of Quito’s downtown with a ride on the teleférico and discover the beauty of the city and its surroundings. This 6-hour fully narrated tour provides panoramic views of Quito from the cable car along with visits to the historic center’s squares, churches, and significant buildings. Round-trip transportation from select Quito hotels, certified English/Spanish speaking guide, entrance fees as specified in the program are all included. Be ready in your Quito hotel lobby for the pickup, which has to be set up with your guide beforehand. Please note that hotels outside of the city have an extra charge for pickup and drop-off. Join us on this marvelous journey and explore the best attractions and things to do in Quito.
27. Quito City Sightseeing Tour Including Teleferico Cable Car Ride and Volcano Hike
Experience the best of Quito with an unforgettable sightseeing tour that includes a cable car ride and a volcano hike. Your expert guide will take you through the city, where you will learn about local customs and traditions. Then, soar high above the city in South America’s highest gondola to take in breathtaking panoramic views. Continue your adventure with a three-hour hike up one of the nation’s stunning volcanoes. This tour is perfect for first-time visitors and families, and includes hotel pickup and drop-off, admission to La Compañía Church, and a certified English/Spanish speaking guide. Please note that there is an extra charge for pickup and drop-off outside of the city, and that alcoholic drinks, meals, and tips are not included. Book now to discover the history, culture, architecture, and natural beauty of Quito!
28. Cotopaxi National Park Hacienda from Quito
Depart from selected hotels in Quito and head towards the Cotopaxi National Park. As you travel through the Panamerican Highway, immerse yourself in the diverse ecosystems along the way, each serving as a testament to the grandeur of the Andes mountain range. Continue your journey until you reach the base of the majestic Cotopaxi Volcano.
Visit the Cotopaxi Museum Park and Limpiopungo Lagoon, and trek through the forest of chuquirahuas up to 4200 meters, weather permitting. Marvel at the scenic Quilotoa Volcano and its tranquil turquoise lagoon. Take a short hike to appreciate its stunning beauty, and enjoy a leisurely lunch at your own expense.
This tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off from selected hotels in Quito, transportation, a bilingual guide, entrance fee to the Cotopaxi Museum, Quilotoa Lagoon visit, lunch, and a horseback ride. Prepare to experience the beauty of Cotopaxi National Park and its magnificent surroundings on this unforgettable tour.
29. Quito City Tour Including Teleferico and Mitad Del Mundo
Get ready to explore the rich architecture, history, and culture of Quito with this fantastic private tour. You’ll start by exploring the historic city center, where you’ll visit the main Basilica and Independence Plaza, as well as many other colonial-era sites. Next, you’ll board the Teleférico and soar above the city to an elevation of over 13,000 feet for breathtaking views. Finally, you’ll finish your day at the Mitad del Mundo monument, where you’ll learn about the equator that splits the world into north and south. This tour includes all entrance fees, as well as round-trip hotel transport, and a private guide and vehicle to ensure a personalized experience. Don’t miss this opportunity to explore the best attractions in Quito!
30. Quito City Tour Hop on Hop Off
Embark on a fun and relaxing tour experience as you explore the largest historic city center in South America with the Quito City Tour Hop on Hop Off bus. Admire the landmarks and monuments of the city while enjoying insightful commentary from an audio guide available in both English and Spanish. Stop at Panecillo Hill for panoramic views and take memorable photos from the top of the double-decker bus. Explore the best of Quito in less time with this convenient tour option.
31. Quito Combo Tour Middle of the World Monument and Pululahua Hike
Experience the incredible geography and scenery of Ecuador during this full-day trip covering Pululahua National Park and the country’s ‘Middle of the World’ equator monument. Explore the incredible biodiversity of Pululahua National Park, a now-dormant volcano, where you can observe over 50 exotic plant species and more than 20 different types of animals. Begin the excursion by straddling both the north and south hemispheres at the ‘Mitad del Mundo’ site that marks the earth’s equator. This is an optional lunch excursion including guides, activities, entrance fees, bottled water, and round-trip hotel transport for your convenience.
Frequently Asked Questions About Quito
Quito is a city that boasts of a rich history and culture that is worth exploring. It is the capital city of Ecuador and is situated at an altitude of 2850 meters. The city is renowned for its well-preserved colonial center, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As a tourist, planning your trip to Quito, you might have a lot of questions about what to expect, where to go and what to do. In this blog post, we have compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions about Quito to help you prepare accordingly for your trip.1. What is the best time to visit Quito?
Quito is blessed with fairly consistent weather throughout the year, making it an ideal destination to visit at any time. The average temperature in the city is around 15°C, and it hardly varies during the different seasons. However, due to its location at the equator, the city has two seasons: dry and rainy. The dry season runs from June to September and December to January, and this is the best time to visit Quito. During this time, the weather is pleasant, and the skies are clear, providing an excellent view of the city’s skyline and the surrounding mountains.2. How do I get to Quito?
Quito has one of the busiest airports in South America, and it is well connected with the rest of the world. If you are coming from abroad, you will most likely arrive at Mariscal Sucre International Airport, located about 18 km east of the city center. From the airport, you can take a taxi or use the public bus system, which is quite efficient and affordable.3. What are the must-visit attractions in Quito?
Quito boasts of many attractions that are worth exploring. The must-visit attractions in the city include:a. The Historic Center of Quito
The Historic Center of Quito is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that contains numerous colonial-era structures that date back to the 16th century. The center of the city is dominated by the La Compañía Church, the Church and Monastery of San Francisco, and the Presidential Palace.b. TelefériQo
TelefériQo is the highest cable car in South America and offers stunning views of the city’s skyline and the surrounding mountains. A ride on the cable car is an experience you don’t want to miss.c. Mitad del Mundo
Mitad del Mundo, which means “Middle of the World,” is a monument that marks the equator line passing through Ecuador. It is a popular tourist attraction that offers incredible views of the surrounding area.4. What is the local currency in Quito, and where can I exchange my money?
The local currency in Quito is the US dollar, which means that there is no need to exchange your money if you are coming from the United States or any other country that uses the dollar. However, if you have other currencies, you can exchange them at any of the many exchange offices located in the city, which offer competitive exchange rates.5. What is the local cuisine in Quito?
Quito has a rich culinary tradition that is influenced by its history and culture. The local cuisine in Quito consists of dishes such as empanadas, fanesca, locro, and hornado. You can find these dishes in most restaurants in the city, and they are quite affordable.6. Is Quito safe for tourists?
Quito is generally safe for tourists, but like any other city, you should take precautions to ensure your safety. Avoid carrying large sums of money or valuables and be cautious when walking in less crowded areas, especially at night. It is also advisable to use licensed taxis when traveling around the city.7. What are the best neighborhoods to stay in Quito?
Quito has many neighborhoods that are safe and offer excellent accommodation options for tourists. Some of the best neighborhoods to stay in Quito includes:a. La Mariscal
La Mariscal is a vibrant and trendy neighborhood that is popular among tourists. It offers numerous accommodation options, restaurants, bars, and shops.b. Centro Histórico
The Historic Center of Quito is an ideal place to stay for tourists who want to be close to the city’s main attractions. The area has many well-preserved colonial buildings that have been converted into hotels and hostels.c. La Floresta
La Floresta is a peaceful and upscale neighborhood that is known for its restaurants, cafes, and art galleries. It is a great place to stay for tourists who prefer a relaxed and quiet environment.8. Do I need a visa to visit Quito?
If you are a citizen of the United States or any of the member countries of the European Union, you do not need a visa to visit Quito. However, if you are coming from a country that requires a visa, you will need to apply for one before your trip.How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Quito, Ecuador
Quito is a beautiful city located in Ecuador’s Andean region. With its rich history, diverse culture, incredible food, and breathtaking landscapes, it’s no surprise that Quito is a popular destination for tourists from around the world. If you’re planning a trip to Quito and wondering how to make the most of your time, this guide is for you.1. Visit the Historic Center of Quito
Quito’s historic center, also known as Centro Historico or Old Town, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and the heart of the city. With its colonial-era architecture, narrow streets, and beautiful churches, this area is a must-visit for any tourist.Start your tour by heading to the city’s main square, called Plaza de la Independencia or Plaza Grande. Here, you can see the Presidential Palace, the Archbishop’s Palace, and the Cathedral. From there, visit La Compañía de Jesús, one of the most beautiful churches in Ecuador, and San Francisco Church. 2. Go Up the Teleferico
If you want to get a bird’s eye view of the city, head up the Teleferico, a cable car that takes you to the top of Pichincha Volcano. This ride is not for the faint of heart, but the views from the top are worth it. You can see the entire city, the Andes Mountains, and if you’re lucky, Cotopaxi Volcano.3. Visit La Mitad del Mundo and the Intiñan Museum
La Mitad del Mundo, or the Equator line, is located just outside of Quito. Here, you can stand on the line that marks the divide between the Northern and Southern Hemisphere. The Intiñan Museum, located nearby, offers a series of entertaining experiments that prove you’re standing on the Equator.4. Try the Local Cuisine
Ecuador is known for its delicious food, and Quito is no exception. Make sure to try ceviche, a seafood dish made with shrimp, lemon juice, and onions. You should also try locro, a traditional soup made with potatoes, cheese, and avocado. If you’re feeling adventurous, try guinea pig or cuy, a popular delicacy in Ecuador.5. Visit the Museums
Quito has a number of great museums that are worth visiting. The Museum of the City of Quito, located in the historic center, tells the story of the city’s history and culture. The Casa del Alabado, a pre-Columbian art museum, is also worth a visit. Finally, the Fundación Guayasamín, dedicated to the work of local artist Oswaldo Guayasamín, is a must-see for art lovers.6. Explore the Parks and Gardens
Quito has a number of beautiful parks and gardens that are perfect for a leisurely stroll. Parque Metropolitano is a great place to enjoy nature and get some exercise. The Botanical Garden, located in the historic center, is home to hundreds of plant species, including many endemic to Ecuador. Finally, the Alameda Park, located near the historic center, is a popular spot for both locals and tourists alike.7. Take a Day Trip
If you have some extra time in Quito, consider taking a day trip to one of the nearby attractions. The Cotopaxi National Park, located just a few hours from the city, is home to the Cotopaxi Volcano and is perfect for hiking and outdoor activities. The Otavalo Market, located in a nearby town, is a great place to see traditional Andean crafts and textiles.Book Your Tour Now
Quito has something for everyone, from history buffs to foodies to outdoor enthusiasts. By following this guide and making the most of your time in the city, you’re sure to have an unforgettable trip. Just remember to bring comfortable shoes, a camera, and a sense of adventure!
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