The 12 Best Things to do in Quito, Ecuador
Quito punches well above its weight in the travel world, and this list of the best things to do in Quito is sure to have you leaving Quito with a smile.
Quito, Ecuador is the sort of city that will take your breath away, both because of its beauty, and because of the altitude. I’ve visited Quito a handful of times and, despite the fact that it’s not an overly large city, I never felt like I was ever running out of things to do.
There’s something remarkably endearing about Quito and though it’s an oft overused term in travel, I really do feel as if Quito is underrated. In fact, of all the cities I’ve visited, Quito feels like one of the the most criminally overrated and overlooked. I don’t often hear of people venturing to this capital city or this nation, or at least not enough.
Ecuador is a nation I hold close to my heart and I only hope I get to visit again.
However, this article on the best things to do in Quito isn’t about me, it’s about running through the top Quito attractions so you know exactly where to head on your next visit.
About Quito, Ecuador
Quito, as you’ll likely know, is the capital of Ecuador. In terms of elevation, it’s actually the second highest capital city on the planet, and the closest capital city to the equator. It’s located in the Guayllambamba River Basin and surrounded on all sides by picturesque mountains (and a volcano).
I’ll talk about this in more depth below, but part of what makes Quito so special is just how well preserved the historic centre is. It’s certainly in the running for the most impressive old town in the Americas. A large reason for that is how little of it has been torn down over the years. While plenty of other cities were bulldozed in order to put up modern real estate, the city of Quito doubled down on preservation.
In fact, most people may not know that Quito and Krakow were actually the first World Heritage Cultural Sites declared by UNESCO in 1978.
Let’s dive into how you can best explore Quito, a city which, by now, it’s probably becoming clear I feel is well worth exploring.
The Top Things to do in Quito, Ecuador
When it comes to planning out your Quito sightseeing, you’re going to want to set aside at least a few days to ensure you can see it all. Some of Quito’s top attractions are in the city proper, and will likely be within walking distance of your accommodation, while others might be a little bit of a drive. I’ll include all the major sights in the city, as well as the surrounding area, and then you can decide how you want to tackle it!
Namely, I’m thinking of this list as what you must see in Quito while you’re there, or at least experience. This list, for the record, isn’t ranked or in order, it’s merely what I’d suggest you fit into your schedule somewhere if you’ve got the time.
Hop on the Telefériqo (Teleférico Quito)
To me, taking the Teleferico is the perfect way that you can conceptualize just how big, sprawling, and gorgeous Quito is. When I was wandering Quito’s narrow streets that seemed to extend forever, I sensed the city was fairly expansive, but I only really grasped that from high up above.
If it’s not clear by now, the TelefériQo (sometimes called the Teleférico Cruz Loma), is a gondola lift. It operated right from the edge of the city centre up the east side of Pinchinicha Volcano. I’m not excited about this for no reason - this is one of the highest aerial lifts in the world. You start the lift at 3117 metres (10,226 ft) and go all the way up to 3,945 metres (12, 942 ft).
If you didn’t have altitude sickness before, you might when you get to the top, so be mindful of that! It’s also typically a bit colder at the top than in the city of Quito itself, so you may want to pack a layer.
The views from the top are spectacular, as you’d imagine, but the gradual 20 minute or so ride is an experience unto itself.
Wander Around Quito’s Incredible Old Town
I’m going to list specific can’t miss sights in Quito’s Old Town that you don’t want to miss below, but for starters, I’d sincerely encourage you to just wander the streets a little bit and get lost.
I remember when I first arrived in Quito, and I was admittedly quite jet-lagged and experiencing altitude sickness for probably the first time in my life. I decided that instead of resting, I’d grab a cup of coffee (which, as you might imagine, is a treat in Ecuador), and then wander the Old Town.
I swear that I was walking mouth agape for that whole time, and that’s because every corner that I turned brought something new. Later, I learned about which church was which and which square was which, but at first I’d really recommend just walking around the Old Town without a strict agenda (and sipping on some Ecuadorian coffee!).
Visit the Museo Temple del Sol Pinto Ortega Maila
A fair bit northwest of Quito’s centre, you’ll find the Museo Temple del Sol Pinto Ortega Maila. Simply put, this is a masterpiece known as “The Temple of the Sun,” which was constructed by the internationally acclaimed indigenous painter and sculptor, Cristóbal Ortega Maila. He set out on a research mission to dive into the design and architectural heritage of the Andes, and this is the physical manifestation of that research.
During normal times, there’s also a tour that’s offered with a guide, and the tour is about 1 hour. That tour includes a coca leaf and aromatherapy session as well, which is kind of nice.
There’s a reason that this is one of tourist attractions in Quito that many people are unwilling to miss.
Appreciate the Church of la Compañía de Jesús
The Church of the Society of Jesus (as it’s known in English), and known in Quito just as la Compañia is one of the most beautiful churches in Ecuador without a doubt. The central nave of the church is seemingly dripping with gold, and the affect is powerful one.
The church is widely considered to be one of the most significant works of Spanish Baroque architecture in all of South America, and I’m not surprised at all. It was started in 1605, completed in 1765, and has been awe-inspiring ever since.
In my humble opinion, this is the most beautiful church in the city, which makes it one of the top things to do in Quito while you’re there.
Make Time to See La Capilla del Hombre
Oswaldo Guayasamin’s La Capilla del Hombre (or “Chapel of Man”) is a little outside Quito’s city centre, but it’s worth the trek.
Guayasamin is often colloquially called “The Picasso of Ecuador,” and this art museum, dedicated to the people of Latin America, may just be his masterpiece. I didn’t get a chance to visit this site until perhaps my second or third visit in Quito, but when I did get the chance I was moved to say the least.
The Capilla del Hombre showcases Guayasamin’s work through the lens of human suffering and violence in Latin America. It’s a powerful place.
If you’re a big fan of Guayasamin, then you should also make time to see the Casa Museo Guayasamin while you’re in Quito.
Head to the Roof of the Basílica del Voto Nacional
You may have realized by now that there are no shortage of gorgeous churches in Quito’s Old Town. The Basílica del Voto Nacional or “Basilica of the National Vow,” is certainly no exception. It is, in fact, the largest neo-Gothic basilica in all of the Americas.
As with the church listed above, it’s name is often shortened by locals. You may hear it just being called “La Basilica.”
The entrance fee is worth paying to explore the interior, but the real treat here is the ability to climb the ladders to the top of the bell tower and get one of the best views in the city. You’ll get to see Quito spreading out as far as the eye can see, and those stunning towers of the church right in the middle to frame it. It’s one of the most iconic views and photographs in the city.
Add this to the “can’t miss” column when it comes to Quito sightseeing.
If churches and cathedrals are your thing, by the way, then add Iglesia y Convento de San Francisco to your list as well.
Eat All the Ecuadorian Food
When people think of Quito (or Ecuador for that matter), food isn’t necessarily the first thing that comes to mind, but that’s a mistake, because there’s great food to be found in Quito if you know where to look.
I personally love the street food scene in Quito, and each time I’m there, a visit to Mercado Central to peruse the street food vendors is a must. There are also great street food stalls in Parque Navarro.
In terms of what to try, I’d make sure you get your hands on the following iconic foods at some point. Most listed here should be easily found at street markets:
Empanadas de viento (basically empanadas with cheese that are deep-fried with a bit of sugar on top)
Seco de Pollo (chicken stew)
Morocho (sweet hot drink that’s essentially corn with milk)
Tripa mishki (tripe may not be your thing, but it’s as famous as can be in these parts, and they do a great job with it)
Fritadas (more or less a fry-up that often features pork)
Locro de papa (soup with cheese, potato and avocado)
Llapingachos (potato pancakes with cheese)
Fried plantains (or any other way they’re prepared, such as chips)
There are plenty of more traditional dishes to try as well, the most famous being Cuy Asado (roasted guinea pig). I’ve tried it, and actually seen it prepared in traditional villages in the highlands, and I’m happy I tried it, but, admittedly, I’m not exactly yearning for more.
Stroll Down Calle La Ronda
When I first stayed in Quito, my hotel was steps away from Calle La Ronda and, suffice to say, I was awfully happy about that.
Cobblestones, bustling bars, night lighting, music on the air, and drinks aplenty.
It’s common for folks to head to a second floor balcony to eat or get a drink and watch the pedestrian traffic move beneath them, and watch life go on by. There are certainly worse approaches to enjoying Quito than that.
While you’re bar, restaurant (and maybe even shop) hopping, keep your eye out for the following famed Ecuadorian alcoholic beverages:
Canelazo (kind of like hot boozy orange juice)
Colada Morada (often associated with Day of the Dead, it’s a fruity drink that also features corn)
Chicha de Piña (a pineapple drink with spices and sugar - what’s not to love?)
For those who don’t drink alcohol, I’d recommend:
Horchata (a tea or medicinal blend that was created in Ecuador’s south. I love this stuff).
Pretty much any fruit juices
If you’re more of a brewery lover, then I’d probably recommend Bandido Brewing in the Old Town and Santa Rosa Cerveza Artesenal in the New Town.
Walk Up El Panecillo
Wherever you are in Quito, you’ll pretty much always be able to see El Panecillo, the 200 metre high volcanic hill with the unmistakable statue.
The statue, for those curious, was made by Spanish artist Agustin de le Herrán Matorras. It’s a 45 metre tall stone monument of the madonna, often known as the “Virgin of El Panecillo.” It’s also made of 7000 pieces of aluminum, which may explain why it always catches your eye.
It’s worth appreciating from afar when you’re in the Old Town, but one of the best things to do in Quito is to walk up to the top of El Panecillo and take in the sweeping views down below.
Yes, another incredible Quito vantage point - there are no shortage of them.
Catch Some Rays in Parque La Carolina
Also known as La Carolina Park, you’ll find this 165 acre piece of land in Quito’s central business district.
For the most part, this park is used by locals to play sports and hang out, but in the southern part of the park, you’ll find a small pond where you can rent paddle boats as well. It’s not necessarily an “attraction in Quito,” but it’s very pleasant if you’re visiting the city with your partner.
You’ll also usually find artists here on the weekend, some of which are performing and selling their work. Finally, the Quito Botanical Gardens are quite nice, but really just come here and wander a bit and see what captures you.
Make Time to See the Ciudad Mitad del Mundo (Middle of the World City)
It’s about a 40 minute drive north (perhaps a little less) to get from Quito to Mitad del Mundo, but who doesn’t want to say they’ve been to the middle of the world?
Admittedly, Ciudad Mitad del Mundo is a bit hokey and kitschy, but I do still think it ought to be on your “what to do in Quito” bucket-list.
On the site, you’ll find the Monument to the Equator, the Museo Ethnográfico Mitad del Mundo (Ethnographic Museum Middle of the Earth), and then the Intiñan Solar Museum. The Intañan Museum is where you’ve got the strange equator tricks and parlour games which don’t actually seem to hold up to science. You’ll see what I mean if you visit - it’s the Itañan Museum that’s particularly hokey.
This really is a “may as well go if I’m so close” sort of Quito attraction.
Relax in the Plaza Grande (Plaza de la Independencia)
When I was there, all my pals and the locals called it Plaza Grande, but I do know that technically it’s known as the Plaza de la Independencia, or Independence Square.
It’s the most important and lively public square in Quito, Ecuador. The main feature is probably the monument to the independence heroes of August 10, 1809.
Around the square you’ll find the Plaza Grande Hotel, the Carondelet Palace, the Archbishop's Palace, the Municipal Palace, and the Metropolitan Cathedral.
Spend a little time just watching the flow of the city here, and don’t rush. It’s a great spot.
You should also check out the Plaza de San Francisco (Plaza San Francisco) in the historic centre while you’re visiting Quito.
And That, My Friends, is What to do in Quito!
All the attractions in Quito aside, Quito is a city that is as easy going and welcoming as can be. For me at least, it was very much love at first sight, but each visit deepened that love further. I remember being in Ecuador for the World Cup, for example, and the passion and support that flowed through the streets was something I’ll never forget.
I would go to the bars and watch the games, and for that day, it’s like I was treated as an honourary Ecuadorian. I still actually have an Ecuador football jersey hanging up in my closet. And after writing this, I can’t wait to wear it once again, and head on back to Quito, a place that will always feel like a home away from home for me.
If you appreciated this article, don’t forget to sign up for my newsletter, and join me in my Facebook group, travel talk with travelingmitch.