Top Things to Do in Quito
About the City
Quito, the charismatic capital of Ecuador, is perched high in the Andean foothills, cradled by mountainous beauty, boasting a blend of colonial charm and contemporary vibrancy. As the second-highest capital city in the world at 2,850 meters above sea level, its altitude is as breathtaking as its historical district. Energetic and picturesque, Quito's Old Town is a tapestry of storied plazas, baroque churches, and meandering streets that echo with whispers of the past, while the New Town buzzes with modern cafes, bars, and a lively street scene. It's a city where angelic sculptures gaze from the facades of centuries-old cathedrals, and sprawling parks invite leisurely strolls or picnic escapades. Quito's gastronomic offerings are a symphony of flavors, from hearty traditional Ecuadorian cuisine to innovative culinary experiments. The city isn't without its struggles, however; traffic congestion and air pollution can mar the urban experience, and the high altitude might leave you short of breath. But fear not, the warmth of the Quiteño sun and the locals' hospitality are the perfect remedies. Whether basking in the glow of the golden-hour sunlight atop the Panecillo hill, admiring the artistry within the Capilla del Hombre, or navigating the cacophonous chaos of a local market, Quito is a city of contrasts that beckons with endless charm and a few manageable challenges.
Things to Do in Quito
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Nun's cookies!
Food & DrinkGrab some cookies from nuns in Quito! Go to Iglesia del Carmen Alto de San José and ask for the cookies! Deliciooous!
Nun's wine in Quito!
Food & DrinkIn the Iglesia del Carmen Alto de San José there are nuns making delicious wine! Go and ask for it guys, you won't regret!
Church + Beer + View
The UnexpectedGo to the main Cathedral in Quito and climb the tower until you find the bar and have a few drinks or some cocaine tea and enjoy the view! (Don't forget the selfie!)
Secret Tunnels Under South America's Oldest Church
The UnexpectedGo to La Iglesia San Francisco and visit the underground gift shop to access the tunnel system. Don't get lost! (Beware of the Ghosts of history!)
Find a gun magazine on the streets!
The UnexpectedDifferent and weird challenge 🤣 Just been walking down the streets in Quito and found this on the ground! (but don't worry guys, at the end it belonged to a policeman)
Swing Above the City
OutdoorsOn a clear day, take the cable car up to the Pichincha mountain, try not to pass out from the 1,000 meter elevation gain (3,900 meters in total), find the swing, have a blast, and enjoy the best view ...
Hike to top of Rucu Pichincha
OutdoorsPost a selfie in front of the sign at the top of Rucu Pichincha
Espumilla!
Food & DrinkIf you think that it is an ice cream... well you're wrong! Infact Espumilla is a traditional Ecuadorian dessert made with this creamy foam like merengue prepared with guava pulp, egg whites and sugar!
Pose with the Rose
SightsIn the main Cathedral of Quito is a beautiful, almost magical, rose window. Go to the rose window in the Cathedral, located between the two towers, and have some fun, let your silly side out, and p...
Pop corn ball!
Food & DrinkKnown ingredients... different shape! Infact the "bolas de palomitas" is pop corn "glued" with caramel and shaped like a ball!
Cevichocho!
Food & DrinkThe Cevichocho or Ceviche de chochos is a vegetarian ceviche made with lupine beans! The other ingredients are onions, tomatoes, coriander, lemon, orange and tomato sauce. It is served with toasted ma...
Get Crafty at La Capilla del Hombre
SightsUnleash your inner art critic at La Capilla del Hombre, where the impressive canvases of Oswaldo Guayasamín will knock your socks off! Walk the halls in awe and maybe find inspiration for your next do...
Market Madness at Mercado Central
SightsDive stomach-first into the chaos of Mercado Central! Snack on exotic fruits you can't pronounce, haggle over artisan trinkets, and sip on a fresh jugo verde. Just make sure to bring your best barteri...
Sensorial Buzz at the Botanical Garden
SightsGet lost in a riot of colors and scents at Quito's Botanical Garden, where orchids flaunt their exotic petals and ferns unfurl like green fireworks. Give your nose a tour of the aromatic herb garden, ...
Step into the Light at Quito's Luminous Lighthouse
SightsPerch yourself on top of El Panecillo and let the towering statue of the Virgin of Quito show you a light show like no other! Enjoy the panoramic view from her feet, and let the city lights below twin...
Eco-Ziplining Through the Cloud Forest
OutdoorsHarness in, step up, and zip your way across the treetops in the Mindo Cloud Forest. You'll feel like a true jungle explorer as you whizz over the luscious canopy, with the sounds of nature as your ep...
Climb the Towers of La Basilica
OutdoorsEver fancied climbing up to the heavens? Now you can, kinda! Scramble up the rickety ladders and steep stairs of La Basilica del Voto Nacional. It's like a medieval gym workout with a prize at the top...
Paddle Boating in Parque La Carolina
OutdoorsGive your legs a fun little workout by paddle boating in the heart of Quito. At Parque La Carolina, float around the pond like a boss, dodge the ducks, and soak up the sun. It's the perfect chill-out ...
Andean Opera Night
The UnexpectedWho says opera can't be spontaneous? Duck into the grand Teatro Nacional Sucre for an evening of high notes and dramatic arias. Whether you understand the words or just nod along, it's all about the e...
Antique Book Hunt
The UnexpectedGet your specs on and dive into the labyrinth of La Floresta neighborhood, where tucked-away shops hide a treasure trove of rare and antique books. It's like a quiet game of hide and seek with history...