Insider's Guide:
Things To Do in Quito

Veronika Macas

Latin America | Ecuador And Galapagos Islands

In 1978, the colonial section of Quito was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This means that the construction of new buildings is limited to the new areas of the city, and strict regulations within the colonial area are established to help preserve its history. As a result, there are a ton of things to do in Quito. It is easy to imagine you’ve been transported to another time as you wander the cobblestone plazas and pass churches and cathedrals that date back to the early 16th century.

A Few of My Favourite Things To Do in Quito

Plaza de La Independencia

If you would like to explore the city centre you will find it quite simple and very rewarding – it is relatively small, and easy to get around on foot. The best plan is to take a taxi to the Plaza de La Independencia as most sites are within walking distance from here. There are numerous excellent guidebooks detailing the history and sites of Quito, but below are some of the most highly recommended sites.

Things to do in Quito

The Cathedral dominates the Plaza de La Independencia as a fine example of colonial architecture. Most of the construction was completed by the 1560s, but the finishing touches weren’t added until the 1900s. Within its walls you will find the remains of General Antonio Jose de Sucre, the hero of Ecuadorean independence. You will also find art from the Quitena School.

The Palacio de Gobierno is located on the northwest side of the Plaza de La Independencia with the slopes of Pichincha in the background. The balconies facing the Plaza were purchased from the Tuilleries in Paris shortly after the French Revolution.

Plaza de San Francisco

Things to do in Quito — The Church of San Francsico

Plaza de San Francisco is located just west of the Plaza de la Independencia, and is a fine spot for people watching. At the far end of this plaza you will find the first religious structure built by the Spanish (over an Incan temple) in South America and the largest church in Quito—the Church of San Francisco, the patron saint of Quito. It’s another fine example of colonial architecture, and boasts a great coffee shop and beautiful gift shop on its ground floor.

Plaza de Santo Domingo

The church and monastery of Santo Domingo is found in the plaza of the same name, southeast of the Plaza de San Francisco. Take a look at the wonderful woodcarving and the Chapel of the Rosary to the right of the main altar.

There are many other churches, monasteries and cathedrals worth peeking into around town. La Compania, Iglesia de La Merced and the Convento de San Augustin are definitely worth checking out. The Basilica is fun to visit—it can be quite an adventure climbing the church towers for the great vistas.

Don’t Miss Out!

The Galapagos Islands are a modern-day Eden, and as you can imagine, space books up quickly, so be sure to reserve your space. Check out an itinerary below, or email veronika.macas@butterfield.com for more info.

DETAILED ITINERARY

Museo Nacional de Banco Central del Ecuador

This museum displays Ecuador’s largest art collection from pre-hispanic to contemporary. The gold and pre-colombian art rooms are a highlight.

Fundacion Guayasamin

This powerful museum displays the works and art collection of Ecuador’s most famous artist, Oswaldo Guayasamin. The museum also displays more than 4500 pre-Colombian pieces. If you’re into impressionism and would like to see the artist’s most important paintings, you should not miss the Capilla del hombre, a five-minute cab ride away from the museum.

Casa Museo Maria Augusta Urrutia

Located in the old town, this Spanish-style mansion gives modern-day visitors a chance to envision what it was like to live in Quito during the 19th century.

Museo de arte colonial

The museum houses the country’s best collection of colonial art and the visit will confirm that Ecuador once gave birth to the new world’s best artists. Don’t miss the sculptures and paintings of the Quito School.

Parque Carolina

The botanical garden is worth a visit if you’re interested to learn more about Ecuador’s plants and trees. Don’t forget to check out the greenhouse and its 1000 orchid species.

The TelefériQo

Quito’s cable car takes you up to the base of the Pichincha volcano (4,053 m/13,300 ft.) where you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the city and its surrounding Andean peaks. Those not affected by the altitude can opt for a hike to the peak (4,785 m/15,700 ft.), or head back to the base to visit the amusement park.

A Few Words of Advice

Quito sits at an altitude of over 2,700 m (9,000 ft.) above Sea level. This is by no means extreme, but as you may already be tired from your flight, we suggest you take the time to acclimatize when you arrive. Relax and keep hydrated.

Quito is a safe city, but like most large cities, it is not advisable to wander the streets at night. A taxi is the best way to get around at night, and the concierge will be happy to call one for you. Taxis are cheap, and getting pretty much anywhere in the city will cost between US$4.00-$8.00.

Veronika Macas

When travel expert Veronika Macas isn’t skiing or cycling, she’s planning exceptional trips for B&R to exotic places all over the world. Splitting her time between Toronto and Switzerland, she still finds time to explore new destinations, climb the mountains of Peru or "glamp" out in the Galapagos!

PHOTO CREDITS

Banner, Plaza, Cable car and Church images Wikimedia

View or Add Comments

Ursula Staddelmann says:

Nov 17, 2017 at 4:45 pm

I spent 2 weeks in this amazing country and the only words I can say is SPECTACULAR, the people, the cities are incredible. They should be proud of this country.

Reply