How to Plan Your Quito Old Town and Middle of the World Shared Tour

If you’re traveling to Quito and want to make the most out of your experience, then consider booking a Quito Old Town and Middle of the World shared tour. This full-day guided tour will allow you to explore the city’s top attractions, discover its history and culture, and enjoy personalized attention from a bilingual guide. Here’s everything you need to know to plan your Quito Old Town and Middle of the World Shared Tour.

Tour Overview

The Quito Old Town and Middle of the World shared tour is an excellent opportunity for those who want to see the best of Quito attractions in a full-day tour. You will save time and cover more ground than you could on foot, and visit some of Quito’s top attractions, such as the Basilica, Intiñan Museum, and La Compañia. Your bilingual guide will provide you with insightful information about each location, and the private format guarantees a personalized experience ideal for time-pressed travelers.

What’s Included in the Tour

The Quito Old Town and Middle of the World shared tour includes the following:

• Round-trip transportation from all Quito accommodations
• Professional bilingual guide
• Entrance fee for Basilica ($2), Intiñan ($4.5), La Compañia($4), and four more locations

Meeting and Pickup Details

The tour starts at 9:00 am, and the guide will pick you up from your hotel. Be sure to inform us about the name of your hotel to make the pickup process smoother.

The Tour Itinerary

The Quito Old Town and Middle of the World shared tour is a full-day tour that will take you to various attractions in Quito, including:

1. La Compañia de Jesús Church

First on the itinerary is the jaw-dropping La Compañia de Jesús Church. Take a stroll inside this baroque church and admire its magnificent structure adorned with gold leaf decorations.

2. Independence Plaza

Next on the itinerary is Quito’s central square, Independence Plaza. This historic square is surrounded by significant buildings such as the City Hall, the Cathedral, and the Archbishop’s Palace.

3. Presidential Palace

The Presidential Palace is located next to the Independence Plaza and is the official residence of the President of Ecuador. You will have the opportunity to take pictures of the guards and the palace’s exterior.

4. Basilica

The Basilica is one of Quito’s most iconic buildings, and it is awe-inspiring from the inside out. You’ll have the opportunity to climb the church’s towers to get a breathtaking view of the city.

5. Middle of the World

The tour then heads to the Middle of the World monument, where you can experience standing on the Equator. You can also visit the Intiñan Museum, which is dedicated to the indigenous cultures that inhabit Ecuador.

6. Pululahua Volcano

One of the last stops on the tour is the Pululahua Volcano, an active volcano but currently dormant. It’s located on the outskirts of Quito and is a beautiful and picturesque highlight of the tour.

Final thoughts

The Quito Old Town and Middle of the World shared tour is a perfect opportunity to discover Quito’s history, culture, and significant landmarks in a full-day tour. You will learn about the city’s past and present while enjoying a personalized experience with a bilingual guide. Book the tour here book the tour here and enjoy a hassle-free and unforgettable trip to Quito!

FAQs About Quito: All You Need to Know

Quito is a city in Ecuador, South America, known for its beautiful architecture, rich history, and stunning Andean landscapes. If you’re planning a trip to Quito, you might have a lot of questions about the city. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about Quito that will help you plan your trip.

1. What is the best time to visit Quito?

The best time to visit Quito is during the dry season, which runs from June to September. The weather is mild and the skies are clear, making it perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities. However, Quito’s weather is notoriously unpredictable, and you should always come prepared for rain, even during the dry season.

2. How do I get to Quito?

Quito is served by the Mariscal Sucre International Airport, which is located about 11 miles outside the city center. You can catch a taxi or an airport shuttle to get to your hotel. You can also take a bus from other parts of Ecuador or neighboring countries.

3. What is the currency in Quito?

The official currency in Quito is the US dollar. You can easily exchange money at banks, exchange offices, or ATMs. Credit cards are also widely accepted in Quito.

4. What are the must-see attractions in Quito?

Quito is full of historical and cultural landmarks, including:

• The Old Town: a UNESCO World Heritage Site with beautiful colonial-era architecture;
• The Cathedral of Quito: a stunning Gothic Basilica that towers above the city;
• The Mitad del Mundo: the Equatorial monument that marks the spot where the equator passes through Ecuador;
• The Teleferico: a cable car that takes you up to 13,000 feet above sea level for breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the Andes;
• The La Carolina Park: a sprawling urban park with botanical gardens, a lake, and a stadium.

5. What are some of the traditional dishes in Quito?

Ecuadorian cuisine is known for its flavorful dishes that are made with fresh, local ingredients. Some of the traditional dishes you must try in Quito include:

• Ceviche: a dish made with marinated fish or shrimp, onions, and lime juice;
• Hornado: roasted pork served with hominy, potatoes, and avocado salad;
• Locro: a hearty soup made with potatoes, corn, cheese, and avocado;
• Empanadas: fried dough pockets filled with cheese, meat, or vegetables;
• Churrasco: grilled steak served with rice, beans, and plantains.

6. Is Quito a safe city for tourists?

Quito is generally considered a safe city for tourists, but like any big city, it is important to take precautions to avoid theft and pickpocketing. Keep your valuables concealed and avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas.

7. What is the local etiquette in Quito?

Ecuadorian culture values respect, politeness, and hospitality. When in Quito, it is important to:

• Greet people with a handshake and use formal titles like “Señor” or “Señora”.
• Avoid discussing sensitive topics like politics or religion.
• Ask before taking photos of people or places, especially in indigenous communities.
• Be punctual for appointments and meetings.
• Tipping is not expected, but it is appreciated in restaurants and for tour guides.

8. What are some popular day trips from Quito?

If you have more time in Quito, there are plenty of interesting day trips you can take from the city. Some popular options include:

• Cotopaxi National Park: home to the Cotopaxi volcano, this park offers hiking, mountain biking, and opportunities to see Andean wildlife.
• Mindohas Cloud Forest: a lush, biodiverse forest with hiking trails, waterfalls, and opportunities to observe rare bird species.
• The Otavalo Market: a colorful indigenous market where you can find handmade crafts, clothing, and local foods.
• Banos de Agua Santa: a small town known for its hot springs, waterfalls, and adventure sports like rafting and ziplining.

Book Your Tour Now

Quito is a fascinating and beautiful city that offers a rich cultural experience for visitors. By knowing the answers to these frequently asked questions, you can better prepare for your trip and make the most of your stay in this wonderful city.

How to spend your time as a tourist in Quito

Quito is the capital city of Ecuador and is located in the Andean mountains at an altitude of 2,850m above sea level. It is known for its well-preserved colonial center, which was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1978. Here are some of the best things to do in Quito:

1. Visit the historic city center

The historic city center of Quito is one of the best-preserved colonial centers in South America. It is full of beautifully restored churches, plazas, museums, and other historic buildings. Some of the must-visit sites in the historic center include:

La Compania de Jesus

This stunning church is considered by many to be the most beautiful in South America. It was built in the 17th century and features incredible gold leaf decoration on its walls and ceilings. Be sure to take a guided tour to learn more about the history and significance of this amazing church.

Plaza Grande

Plaza Grande is the main square in Quito and is surrounded by some of the most important government buildings in the country. Here, you can see the presidential palace, the cathedral, and the city hall. It’s also a great place to people-watch and take in the sights and sounds of the city.

Museo del Carmen Alto

This museum is located in a beautifully restored 18th-century convent and features art, artifacts, and exhibits related to the history of the city and the country. It’s a great place to learn about the indigenous cultures of Ecuador and the role they played in the city’s history.

2. Explore the TelefériQo

The TelefériQo is a cable car that takes visitors up to a height of 4,050m, offering amazing views of Quito and the surrounding mountains. Once you reach the top, you can explore hiking trails, restaurants, and even a small amusement park. Be sure to bring warm clothes, as it can get cold at that altitude.

3. Visit Mitad del Mundo

Mitad del Mundo is a monument and museum located at the equator. Here, you can stand with one foot in the northern hemisphere and one foot in the southern hemisphere. There are also exhibits related to the history and culture of Ecuador, as well as some fun interactive displays.

4. Explore the markets

Quito is home to several markets where you can find everything from traditional crafts to fresh produce. Some of the best markets to visit include:

Mercado Central

This is the largest market in Quito and offers everything from clothing to fresh seafood to souvenirs. It’s a great place to explore and get a sense of the local culture.

La Mariscal

This neighborhood is known for its nightlife and its handicrafts market. Here, you can find all sorts of handmade items, including jewelry, textiles, and carved wooden figures.

5. Take a day trip to Cotopaxi National Park

Cotopaxi National Park is located about an hour’s drive from Quito and is home to the Cotopaxi volcano, which is one of the highest active volcanoes in the world. Visitors can hike, bike, and horseback ride through the park, taking in the stunning scenery along the way.

Book Your Tour Now

Quito is a fascinating city with a rich history and culture. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or just exploring a new place, there are plenty of things to do and see in Quito. Be sure to visit the historic city center, explore the markets, take a trip up the TelefériQo, and venture out to Cotopaxi National Park for an unforgettable experience.