Discover Quito, capital of Ecuador
Quito, the world’s highest capital, is a vibrant city nestled in the Andes that blends history, culture, nature, and impressive architecture. If you plan to visit this amazing city, prepare to immerse yourself in a journey through its colonial past, art, and Andean landscapes. Below is a detailed guide to help you make the most of the city, with information on its museums, churches, activities, and prices to better plan your trip.
Explore Quito’s Historic Center
Quito's Historic Center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the best-preserved in Latin America. Walking through its cobblestone streets feels like traveling back in time. Here are some of the city's most iconic buildings and squares:
Plaza Grande (Independence Square): Surrounded by historic monuments such as the Carondelet Palace and the Metropolitan Cathedral, this is the heart of Quito.
Church of the Society of Jesus: Famous for its dazzling interior covered in gold leaf, it is one of the most impressive churches in America.
Basilica of the National Vow: In neo-Gothic style, it is the largest church in Quito. You can climb its towers for a panoramic view of the city.
La Ronda Street: A cobbled street filled with life, colonial houses, traditional restaurants, and artisan workshops.
Fascinating Museums of Quito
Quito offers a rich selection of museums to explore, from pre-Columbian art to modern history. Here are some of the most interesting museums:
National Museum of Ecuador (MuNa): The largest in the country, with an impressive collection of pre-Columbian, colonial, and contemporary art.
Entry: Free.
Casa de Sucre Museum: Dedicated to the independence hero Antonio José de Sucre.
Entry: Free.
Museum of the City: A fascinating tour through Quito's history.
Entry: $4 adults, $2 students with ID, $2 children, free for seniors over 60 and people with disabilities.
Alberto Mena Caamaño Museum: Famous for its wax figures that recreate the 1810 massacre of patriots.
Entry: Adults: $1.50, students: 75 cents, children: 50 cents.
Carmen Alto Museum: Located in a former convent, it houses religious art and relics.
Entry: $4 adults, $2 students with ID, $2 children, free for seniors over 60 and people with disabilities.
Ecuadorian Pasillo Museum: Dedicated to one of Ecuador’s most representative music genres, pasillo. This museum honors iconic figures like Julio Jaramillo, known as “The Nightingale of America,” whose songs left an indelible mark on the country’s popular culture. Here, you can learn more about traditional music and its impact on Ecuadorian identity.
Entry: Free.
Churches and Cathedrals: Quito’s Religious Beauty
Quito is famous for its magnificent colonial churches, which feature a mix of architectural styles and unparalleled decorative splendor.
Church of the Society of Jesus: Considered one of the most beautiful churches on the continent, its interior is covered in gold leaf.
Entry: Fees for entry are as follows: for foreigners, the cost is $6 for adults and seniors, and $3 for students. For nationals, the price is $1 for adults and university students, and 50 cents for students from other educational levels.
Basilica of the National Vow: In neo-Gothic style, it offers the chance to climb its towers and walk along its roof to enjoy panoramic views.
Entry: Entrance to the nave is $2 per person, while access to the towers, highly recommended, costs $3 per person. These rates apply to foreigners, as Ecuadorians pay only $1 for admission.
Metropolitan Cathedral: The oldest church in the city, famous for its blend of architectural styles.
Entry: $3 entrance, $6 with access to the domes and museum.
Church of San Francisco: Founded in 1534, it is Quito’s oldest church and has a convent-museum housing religious art.
Museum entry: $3 for nationals and foreigners, $2 for students, $1 for children.
Church of Santo Domingo: With an impressive interior filled with frescoes and wood carvings.
Entry: Free.
Middle of the World: Standing in Two Hemispheres at Once
Just 45 minutes from Quito is the Middle of the World monument, where you can stand with one foot in each hemisphere. While the monument is a must-see, I also recommend visiting the Intiñan Museum, which offers experiments and exhibits on Ecuador’s ancient cultures.
Entry to Middle of the World City: $5 adults, $2.50 children and seniors.
Entry to Intiñan Museum: $4 adults, $2.50 children under 12.
Quito’s Cable Car: Adventure at Altitude
The cable car takes you from 2,850 meters to 4,000 meters above sea level, offering spectacular views of Quito and its surroundings. For the more adventurous, from the top of the cable car, you can start a hike to Rucu Pichincha, a volcanic summit.
Cable Car Entry: Promotional rates for Ecuadorian ID holders: minors under 18 years old $3.25, adults $5.25, seniors $2.50, and people with disabilities $2.50. Standard rates: minors under 18 years $7.00, adults $9.00, seniors $6.50, people with disabilities $6.50. Additional options include bike rental for $5.25 for one ride, $9.00 for the whole day, locker rental $2.00, and pets over 30 cm in height $5.00.
La Mariscal: Quito’s Cosmopolitan Zone
La Mariscal is where Quito’s nightlife is centered, with a variety of bars, restaurants, and clubs. Plaza Foch is the epicenter of fun, and tourists will find a diverse gastronomic offering ranging from traditional to international cuisine.
Parks and Green Spaces
La Carolina Park: A large urban park ideal for walking, cycling, or simply relaxing. You’ll also find the Botanical Garden here, where you can explore the country’s flora.
Entry to the Botanical Garden: $4 adults, $2 children, students, seniors, and free for people with disabilities.
Guangüiltagua Metropolitan Park: A vast park in the hills of Quito, perfect for hiking and mountain biking.
Quito Cuisine: Must-Try Flavors
Don’t leave Quito without trying its traditional dishes:
Locro de papa: Potato soup with cheese and avocado.
Fritada: Fried pork served with toasted corn and fried plantains.
Empanadas de viento: Filled with cheese, fried, and dusted with sugar.
Canelazo: A hot drink made with aguardiente and naranjilla juice, perfect for Quito’s cold nights.
Day Trips from Quito
Otavalo: Two hours from Quito, famous for its indigenous market full of handicrafts.
Papallacta Hot Springs: Relax in natural hot springs surrounded by mountains.
Antisana Reserve: A perfect destination for ecotourism and condor watching.
Practical Tips
Altitude: Quito is at a high altitude, so take your time to acclimate.
Weather: Quito has variable weather, so bring warm clothes and a raincoat.
Transportation: Use taxis or apps like Uber to get around the city. You can also use the Trolebus or Ecovia.
Quito, the world’s highest capital, is a vibrant city nestled in the Andes that blends history, culture, nature, and impressive architecture. If you plan to visit this amazing city, prepare to immerse yourself in a journey through its colonial past, art, and Andean landscapes.
