Quito
Travellers who want history, Andean scenery and a gateway to the highlands
Quito at a glance
Quito's colonial core is a UNESCO-listed grid of churches, plazas and steep streets, set against the flank of Pichincha volcano. Mornings are for the old town's façades, afternoons for the equator monument or a cable-car climb, and weekends for markets in the surrounding valleys.
The week ahead
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Where to base yourself
- Centro HistóricoCathedral, Compañía church and San Francisco within walking distance. Best for a first stay focused on the old city.
- La Floresta and MariscalCafés, galleries and nightlife around El Ejido park. Choose it for evening restaurants and easier parking.
- Tumbaco and the valleyQuieter suburbs below the city with cooler evenings and valley views. Useful as a calmer base for longer stays.
A sample 3-day rhythm
- Day 1Arrive early, walk the main plazas slowly and keep the evening relaxed, since the altitude takes a day to adjust to.
- Day 2Explore the old town's churches in the morning, then ride the teleférico for afternoon views of the surrounding peaks.
- Day 3Day trip to Otavalo market or the Mitad del Mundo monument, choosing one rather than trying to fit both.
Want more? Use the planner to stretch this into a full trip.
Tips before you go
- Give yourself a slow first day before long walks or steep streets.
- Carry a light jacket; afternoons can turn cool and rainy quickly.
- Use licensed taxis or ride apps at night rather than walking quiet blocks.
- Carry small cash for market days, church donations and bus fares.
Common questions
- Will the altitude affect us?
- At 2,850 metres some people feel breathless on stairs for the first day or two. Rest, hydrate and avoid heavy meals on arrival.
- How many days do we need?
- Three nights covers the city plus one highland day trip without rushing.
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