Best Things to Do in Quito, Ecuador: Complete Travel Guide

Last Updated: October 2026

Perched high in the Andes at an altitude of 2,850 metres, Quito is one of South America’s most fascinating capital cities. Surrounded by dramatic volcanic peaks, Ecuador’s capital is famous for its beautifully preserved colonial architecture, colourful streets, historic churches and spectacular mountain views.

Quito was our first introduction to Ecuador, and what an introduction it was! We loved wandering through the UNESCO-listed Old Town, admiring its beautiful plazas and churches, and discovering the city’s incredible viewpoints. With so much history, culture and natural beauty packed into one destination, there are plenty of wonderful things to do in Quito.

But Quito is more than just a city worth exploring. It’s also an excellent base for discovering some of Ecuador’s most spectacular landscapes, from the towering Cotopaxi volcano to the breathtaking Quilotoa crater lake and the colourful markets of Otavalo.

In this guide, we’re sharing our favourite things to do in Quito, along with the best day trips and practical tips to help you plan your visit, including where to stay, how to get around and how many days you’ll need.

Best Things to Do in Quito? 

Take a free walking tour

One of the best ways to discover Quito is by joining a free walking tour of its beautiful historic centre. It’s a fantastic introduction to the city, especially if you’re visiting for the first time.

The Free Walking Tour Quito starts at Community Hostel and takes you through the Old Town’s charming streets, historic plazas and impressive colonial architecture. Along the way, you’ll learn about Quito’s fascinating history, visit the Central Market and discover some local food specialities.

Tours currently depart at 10.30 am and 2.30 pm Monday to Saturday, with an additional 10.30 am tour on Sundays. They last approximately three hours, and booking ahead is recommended.

Although the tours are free to join, they’re tip-based, so remember to bring some cash to thank your guide for their time and knowledge.

Lose yourself in the Old Town 

Quito’s UNESCO listed Old Town is the best preserved historic centre in the whole of the Americas, so as you can imagine, it is totally worth exploring. The bustling cobblestone streets are so colourful and pretty that you could easily wander around all day without getting bored. Make sure you have your camera handy because you are going to be clicking away!

While in the Old Town make sure you visit the following sights:

• Plaza Grande, Quito’s central square, home to the Presidential Palace and the Metropolitan Cathedral.
• Plaza San Francisco, home to the city’s oldest church.
• La Compañía de Jesus, a Jesuit church with a stunning interior covered in gold. 
• San Agustin, an old convent where Ecuador’s Independence Act was signed.
• La Merced, an old Catholic church.

Dare to climb the Basilica del Voto Nacional’s spire

I used to be quite the daredevil in my younger years but not so much anymore. When we were told just how scary the climb up the Basilica del Voto Nacional’s spire was, I had plenty of reservations. I always manage to get to the top of such climbs, only to have a major panic when it’s time to head back down. So I wasn’t sure at all about this one. But for $4 entry fee I thought it was worth a try.

You enter at the end of the basilica that has the two square towers. To climb the towers up to the height of the basilica’s ceiling, you have the choice of taking either the stairs or the elevator. We needed the exercise, so we chose the stairs (the elevator does not cost extra). Taking the stairs was easy enough and once there we walked along a wooden walkway, across the length of the basilica’s vaulted ceiling. That took us to the start of the climb up the spire.

After that, the fun (or not so fun) part began! There were three ladder-like sets of stairs to climb. The first started inside the roof and was the easiest one, taking us outside on to the roof and to the base of the spire. The other two flights of stairs were external and offered views all across the city as you climbed them. But if like me, you’re scared of heights, they present a real challenge. As always, I found the way up a lot easier. However, I managed to make it back down and it was totally worth it. You get some incredible views from up there!

After your climb the spire you can relax at the basilica’s coffee shop, enjoying a coffee or a beer with a view.

To enter the basilica there is another $2 charge. It’s worth the extra fee because its stained glass windows are pretty impressive. 

One cool thing about this basilica is its gargoyles, or should I say the native animals in place of gargoyles. All around its exterior are statues of Armadillos, Iguanas and Andean condors looking down on you.

Head to Calle La Ronda for Canelazo

This small balcony-lined street is located right in the Old Town and is very popular with travellers. It has some stunning, colourful architecture and is one of the prettiest streets in Quito.

On Calle La Ronda you’ll find restaurants, yummy chocolate shops, and some fun bars where you can try the local speciality, Canelazo, a warm alcoholic drink popular in Ecuador.  

You should visit during the day to take the best photos of the pretty buildings but you should definitely come back in the evening. In the evening, the street lanterns are lit, there is live music playing and many bars have happy hours.

Head up to El Panecillo

The viewpoint of El Panecillo is located right in the middle of Quito, dividing the north and south of the city. You can’t miss it, thanks to its very notable statue “La Virgen de Quito”, the Virgin of Quito, which dominates the skyline.

Locals recommend taking a taxi or Uber up to El Panecillo as people have occasionally been robbed walking up the hill. An Uber cost us $2 each way from the Old Town, making it an easy decision for us.

Ride the Teleférico up the Pichincha Volcano

After the Old Town, Quito’s second most popular attraction is its Teleférico. The Teleférico is a cable car that starts at 2,950 metres and takes you all the way up to 4,050 metres. The ride lasts about 15 minutes and covers a total distance of 2.5 kilometres.

The views from the top are incredible. There are a few viewpoints to walk to and a swing that’s made for Instagram-perfect photos!

If you are a keen hiker, there is a great hike to the summit of the Rucu peak. But we don’t recommend doing the hike if you haven’t had a chance to acclimatise to the altitude. You’ll need to stay in Quito at least 3 or 4 days before attempting it. The hike takes about 4 to 5 hours and is really tough, so bring good walking shoes, warm and layered clothing, snacks and plenty of water. 

You’ll have a better chance to enjoy the Teleférico if you go up on a clear day. If it’s overcast, you might not get much of a view at the top. We’d also suggest going early, especially on the weekend, because it can get really busy. The cost of the Teleférico ride is $9 return per person and it’s open every day, from 10:00 am Monday to Thursday and from 8:00 am Friday to Sunday. 

The best way to get to the Teleférico base station is to take an Uber. It costs around $4 to $5 each way. 

Climb the many steps to Itchimbía Park 

Have you eaten too many empanadas and need to burn off a few calories? No worries, take a walk up to Itchimbia Park. It’s a fair walk up many flights of steps but the views at the top will be a great reward and totally worth all the effort.

Once there you will find the Crystal Palace as well as the Quito sign where you can, of course, stop for the obligatory selfie!

If you need a break, you can go and rest in the Crystal Palace, the Cultural Centre that is full of bean bags!

Have a night out in Plaza Foch

Plaza Foch is the place to go if you want to party. It’s packed with pubs, restaurants, night clubs and Karaoke bars. Quiet during the day, it comes alive late afternoon when you can enjoy pre-dinner drinks, followed by dinner and perhaps more drinks! We found it rather overpriced for Ecuador but I suppose that’s to be expected for such a touristy place in a big city.

Just be careful at night as the area around Plaza Foch can be a little rough. Take a taxi or an Uber back to your hotel late at night.

Do your souvenir shopping at the Mercado Artisanal

If you are looking to bring some artisanal products back home, head to the Mercado Artisanal. This market has stall after stall selling Alpaca jumpers, Panama hats, embroidered handbags, and all sorts of brightly coloured souvenirs. You’re pretty much guaranteed to find whatever it is you’re looking for but be prepared to bargain.

Take some day trips

Quito is a fantastic base for exploring some of Ecuador’s most spectacular landscapes and cultural attractions. From towering volcanoes and colourful markets to beautiful crater lakes and lush cloud forests, there are plenty of incredible day trips from Quito. If you have the time, I’d recommend allowing a few extra days to explore beyond the city.

• La Mitad del Mundo (Middle of the World): One of Quito’s most popular excursions, this famous monument marks the equator. It’s a fun place to visit, although the actual equatorial line is slightly north of the monument.
• Cotopaxi National Park: Home to one of the world’s highest active volcanoes, Cotopaxi is a spectacular sight when the clouds cooperate! You can explore the national park, enjoy scenic walks and admire the dramatic volcanic landscapes. Climbing to the summit is a serious mountaineering adventure requiring a guide and proper acclimatisation. Try to visit on a clear day, although mountain weather is notoriously unpredictable.
• Quilotoa Crater Lake: One of Ecuador’s most breathtaking natural attractions, Quilotoa is a stunning turquoise lake nestled inside a volcanic crater. You can visit on a long day trip from Quito or spend several days hiking the beautiful Quilotoa Loop through traditional Andean villages.
• Otavalo Market: Famous for its colourful textiles, traditional handicrafts and Indigenous culture, Otavalo is home to one of South America’s best-known markets. It’s a wonderful place to browse handmade souvenirs and experience the region’s rich cultural heritage.
• Mindo Cloud Forest: A paradise for nature lovers, Mindo is famous for its incredible birdlife, especially hummingbirds.

Love wildlife and rainforests? If Mindo sounds like your kind of place, you’ll also love the Ecuadorian Amazon! Read about our five-day Amazon adventure, where we explored the jungle, encountered fascinating wildlife and even made friends with a tarantula! 😂

Looking for more adventure in Ecuador? Head south to Baños, one of our favourite destinations in the country! With spectacular waterfalls, lush mountains, scenic cycling routes and plenty of outdoor adventures, it’s well worth adding to your itinerary.

Where to eat in Quito?

Some restaurant recommendations in the Old Town

• Cafe Galleti: For your caffeine fix!
• Bandido Brewing: For great craft beers and delicious pizza.
• Fabiolita: A great spot for lunch, right on Plaza Grande
• Hasta la Vuelta: Ecuadorian food, set in a historic courtyard next to the Plaza Grande.

Some restaurant recommendations in the New Town 

• Miskay:  Fancier Ecuadorian food with a view out over Plaza Foch.
• Suvlaki – Nice Greek food.

Where to stay in Quito?

Quito has plenty of accommodation options, from affordable guesthouses to beautiful boutique hotels housed in historic colonial buildings. I’d recommend staying in or near the Old Town, especially if you’re visiting for the first time, as you’ll be close to many of the city’s main attractions.

Hotel Rosario – Our stay (Budget-friendly)

We stayed at Hotel Rosario during our visit to Quito. It’s a good option for travellers looking for affordable accommodation while exploring Ecuador’s capital. We found it a convenient base for discovering the city without spending a fortune on accommodation.

Hotel Patio Andaluz – Midrange boutique hotel

If you’re looking for something with a little more character, Hotel Patio Andaluz is a lovely choice. Set inside a beautifully restored colonial building dating back to the 16th century, this boutique hotel features charming interior courtyards, traditional architecture and an excellent location just a short walk from Independence Square. It’s ideal for travellers who appreciate historic charm and a central location.

Casa Gangotena – Luxury boutique hotel

For a truly special stay in Quito, Casa Gangotena is hard to beat. This elegant luxury hotel occupies a beautifully restored historic mansion overlooking Plaza San Francisco, right in the heart of the Old Town. With sophisticated rooms, an excellent restaurant and a rooftop terrace offering spectacular city views, it’s a wonderful option for anyone looking to treat themselves.

Planning to explore beyond Quito? Rather than squeezing Cotopaxi and Quilotoa into long day trips, why not include them in a longer Ecuador adventure? Check out our One Month Ecuador Itinerary to see how we explored the country’s incredible landscapes, cities and wildlife.

How to Get Around Quito?

Getting around Quito is relatively easy, with several transport options depending on where you’re staying and what you want to visit. We mostly explored on foot and used Uber for longer distances.

On Foot

Walking is one of the best ways to explore Quito’s beautiful historic centre. We felt comfortable wandering around both the Old Town and New Town during the day, discovering colourful streets, historic plazas and impressive architecture.

However, Quito is a large, hilly city, and at 2,850 metres above sea level, even short uphill walks can leave you breathless! Stick to busy streets, be mindful of your belongings and avoid walking through quiet or unfamiliar areas after dark.

By Taxi or Uber

We mostly used Uber when travelling between the Old Town and New Town or visiting places too far to walk. It was convenient, affordable and easy to use, with some journeys costing us just a couple of dollars during our visit.

Official taxis are another option. If you use one, choose a registered taxi and make sure the meter is running or agree on the fare beforehand.

By Metro

Quito’s modern metro opened in 2023, making it a useful option for travelling across the city. It connects several neighbourhoods, including the historic centre via San Francisco station, and offers an affordable way to avoid Quito’s sometimes heavy traffic.

By Bus

Quito also has an extensive public bus network, including dedicated bus corridors. It’s a cheap way to get around, although buses can become extremely crowded, particularly during rush hour.

We didn’t use the buses much ourselves, preferring the convenience of Uber. If you do take public transport, keep your valuables secure and be especially careful of pickpockets in crowded vehicles and stations.

How to Get from Quito Airport to the City Centre? 

Quito’s Mariscal Sucre International Airport is located approximately 40 kilometres from the historic centre, so allow around 45–60 minutes for the journey, depending on traffic.

Private airport transfer: If you’re arriving late at night or visiting Quito for the first time, I’d recommend arranging a private transfer through your hotel. Having a driver waiting for you at the airport makes arriving in a new city much less stressful, especially after a long flight!

Taxi: Official airport taxis are available outside the terminal and offer a convenient way to reach your accommodation. Fares vary depending on your destination, so confirm the price before setting off.

Uber: Uber is another option in Quito, although airport pickup arrangements can vary. Check the app for availability and the designated meeting point.

Airport bus: For budget-conscious travellers, the airport also has bus connections to Quito. These are cheaper than a taxi or private transfer but may be less convenient if you’re travelling with luggage or arriving late at night.

Personally, we’d choose a prearranged transfer for a late-night arrival. It’s worth paying a little extra for a hassle-free start to your Ecuador adventure!

Best Time to Visit Quito

Thanks to its location high in the Andes, Quito enjoys relatively mild temperatures throughout the year, although the weather can be surprisingly unpredictable. Don’t expect tropical heat just because you’re in Ecuador!

June to September is generally considered the best time to visit Quito, with drier weather, clearer skies and better opportunities to admire the surrounding volcanoes. It’s particularly good for sightseeing, hiking and exploring the nearby national parks.

October to May tends to be wetter, with more frequent afternoon showers, although sunny mornings are still common. The surrounding landscapes are beautifully green during this time.

Whenever you visit, pack layers, a waterproof jacket and sunscreen. Quito’s high altitude means the sun can be surprisingly strong, while evenings can get quite chilly.

Love Quito’s colonial architecture? Don’t miss Cuenca, another beautiful UNESCO-listed Ecuadorian city. With its charming cobbled streets, colourful markets and impressive churches, it’s a wonderful addition to any Ecuador itinerary.

How Many Days Do You Need in Quito?

I’d recommend spending at least two full days in Quito to explore the beautiful historic centre, visit its impressive churches, enjoy the viewpoints and discover some of the city’s neighbourhoods without rushing.

If you’re planning to use Quito as a base for day trips, allow four to five days or longer. Cotopaxi National Park, Quilotoa Crater Lake, Otavalo and Mindo are all worth visiting, although some involve long journeys.

We’d also recommend allowing yourself a little time to adjust to Quito’s altitude, especially if you’ve just arrived in Ecuador. At 2,850 metres above sea level, even walking uphill can feel harder than usual!

FAQs About Visiting Quito

Is Quito Safe to Visit?

We enjoyed exploring Quito and felt comfortable walking around the main tourist areas during the day. However, like many large South American cities, Quito has its share of petty crime, so it’s important to take sensible precautions.

Keep your valuables secure, avoid displaying expensive jewellery or camera equipment unnecessarily, and be particularly careful in crowded markets and on public transport.

We’d recommend exploring the historic centre during daylight hours and using Uber or a trusted taxi after dark rather than walking through quiet streets. It’s also worth asking your accommodation which areas are best avoided.

Don’t let safety concerns put you off visiting Quito, but do stay aware of your surroundings and use common sense.

Is Quito Worth Visiting?

Absolutely! Quito is one of South America’s most fascinating capital cities, with beautiful colonial architecture, impressive churches, colourful markets and spectacular Andean scenery. Its UNESCO-listed historic centre alone makes it worth visiting, and it’s a fantastic starting point for exploring Ecuador.

Can You Get Altitude Sickness in Quito?

Yes. Quito sits at approximately 2,850 metres above sea level, so some visitors experience headaches, tiredness or shortness of breath while adjusting to the altitude. Take it easy on your first day, stay hydrated and avoid strenuous activities until you’ve acclimatised. If symptoms become severe or worsen, seek medical attention.

Is Quito Expensive to Visit?

Quito is generally an affordable destination compared with many major international cities. You’ll find accommodation and restaurants to suit different budgets, while local transport and many sightseeing activities are reasonably priced. Ecuador uses the US dollar, making budgeting straightforward.

Can You Drink Tap Water in Quito?

For visitors, it’s generally best to stick to filtered, boiled or bottled drinking water unless your accommodation confirms that its tap water is safe to drink. Bringing a reusable bottle that you can refill with safe drinking water is a good way to reduce plastic waste.

Dreaming of an unforgettable wildlife adventure? No trip to Ecuador would be complete without considering the incredible Galápagos Islands! Read about our ten-day cruise exploring these remarkable islands and the extraordinary wildlife we encountered along the way.

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