Itchimbía Park
A hilltop park with sweeping views over Quito and the Andes. It is a good spot for walking, relaxing, and photography.
HoursDaily 06:00–20:00
AdmissionFree
Travel tipLate afternoon is especially good for views around sunset.
Quito travel guide
EcuadorBasics
CountryEcuador
Time zoneAmerica/Guayaquil
CurrencyUSD
Official language(s)Spanish
It's advisable to make reservations and use guides when visiting national parks.
Places to visit
Museum of Colonial Art
A key museum for Quito’s colonial art, with Baroque paintings, sculptures, and religious works. The historic mansion itself is also part of the experience.
HoursTue–Sun 09:30–17:00
AdmissionPaid
Travel tipIt is an excellent rainy-day stop because most of the visit is indoors.
National Museum of Ecuador
A major museum covering Ecuadorian history from pre-Columbian times to the modern era. Its collection includes metalwork, ceramics, and colonial art.
HoursTue–Sun 09:00–17:00
AdmissionFree
Travel tipPair it with a walk through the historic center for an efficient half-day itinerary.
Basilica of the National Vow
A landmark neo-Gothic basilica in Quito with tower access for panoramic views over the historic center. Its unusual gargoyle details are also well known.
HoursDaily 09:00–17:30
AdmissionFree entry; tower/observation areas paid
Travel tipWear comfortable shoes if you plan to climb the towers and stairs.
© No machine-readable author provided. Vondieder assumed (based on copyright claims). · CC BY-SA 2.5TelefériQo
A cable car from Quito up the slopes of Pichincha Volcano, offering sweeping views of the city and the Andes.
LocationQuito, Pichincha, Ecuador
Nearest stationEl Ejido
HoursHours vary
AdmissionPaid
Travel tipIt gets windy at higher altitude, so dress in layers and go in the morning on clear days.
Museo Casa del Alabado
A museum focused on pre-Columbian Ecuadorian art, best combined with a walking tour of the historic center.
LocationQuito, Pichincha, Ecuador
Nearest stationPlaza Grande
HoursHours vary
AdmissionPaid
Travel tipTake your time with the exhibits and pair it with a stroll through the historic district.
Museum of the City
A museum showcasing Quito's history and culture.
HoursTue-Sun 09:00-17:00
Admission$3
Travel tipIt’s better to take a guided tour.
La Ronda Street
A street with traditional architecture and charming cafes.
HoursOpen 24 hours
AdmissionFree
Travel tipVisit in the evening to enjoy music and performances.
Quito Teleferico
A cable car offering breathtaking views of Quito.
HoursMon-Sun 09:00-17:00
Admission$8
Travel tipVisit in the late afternoon for a stunning sunset.
La Carolina Park
A major park in Quito with various recreational facilities.
HoursOpen 24 hours
AdmissionFree
Travel tipEnjoy a picnic with locals on weekends.
Plaza de la Independencia
A historical square famous in Quito.
HoursOpen 24 hours
AdmissionFree
Travel tipCheck out the local market on weekends.
Food to try
Las Flores
A restaurant famous for traditional Ecuadorian dishes made with fresh ingredients.
HoursMon-Sun 12:00-22:00
Admission$10-$30
Travel tipBe sure to try their lunch menu.
Events
Holy Week events (Semana Santa)
Religious processions and ceremonies around Easter are centered in Quito’s historic district and are highly traditional.
WhenAround March to April each year
LocationQuito, Pichincha, Ecuador
Nearest stationPlaza Grande
HoursVaries by event
AdmissionMostly free
Travel tipRoad closures may occur during major processions, so plan to walk more.
Fiestas de Quito
Quito’s city anniversary festival, with music, parades, performances, and civic events across the city.
WhenAround August each year
LocationQuito, Pichincha, Ecuador
Nearest stationPlaza Grande
HoursVaries by event
AdmissionSome free, some paid
Travel tipEvents are spread out and last for days, so check your accommodation and transport plans in advance.
Basic travel phrases (Spanish)
Hola
Hola · Greeting
Gracias
Gracias · Thanks
Mucho gusto
Mucho gusto · Nice to meet you
Que tengas un buen día
Que tengas un buen dia · Wishing a good day
Bienvenido
Bienvenido · Welcome