Things to do in Quito

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Quito featuring landscape views and a city
Calle La Ronda showing street scenes and night scenes as well as a large group of people
La Merced Church showing a statue or sculpture, a fountain and a square or plaza
Foch Square which includes street scenes as well as a small group of people
Basilica of the National Vow which includes a city

Quito Attractions

As the capital of Ecuador, Quito's past extends for centuries beyond its founding in 1534 to its status as a kingdom of the Incan Empire. Known by nicknames such as the Light of America, the City of the Heavens, and God's Face, Quito attained UNESCO World Heritage status in 1978 in recognition of the superb Spanish Colonial buildings in its ancient heart.

Most of the attractions in Quito are centered around the Old Town, where nearly 500 years of history are played out in the ancient buildings and winding streets. There are excellent Quito tours, which provide sights of the Old Town, but visitors will find the sheer number of must-see places requires them to allow more than one day to properly enjoy them all. Top highlights include the Iglesia de la Compañia de Jesus, one of the most beautiful churches in the Americas. And one of the most popular spots in the city for tourists is the hill where La Vírgen del Panecillo is located. This famous statue depicts the winged Virgin and provides a stunning focal point above the city.

Another local tourist favorite is the Museo de la Ciudad, or City Museum. With interactive displays detailing Quito's history, it's popular with children and adults alike. Quito also offers visitors a veritable shoppers' paradise of well-made goods crafted by artisans and sold right from their workshops on the street. There are also several malls dotted around the city giving visitors the opportunity to purchase familiar brands at reasonable prices.

With Expedia, it's easy to find things to do in Quito. With just a few clicks of your mouse, you'll have all the information on Quito activities making your trip especially memorable. Expedia can also help you map out some of the best Quito excursions, with information on opening times, admission price, and points of interest for activities outside the city. Using Expedia as your travel resource will provide you with all the information you need to plan the excursion of a lifetime in this wonderful and historic South American city.


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What to do in Quito

Free Things to Do in Quito

There's no need to give your credit card a workout in Quito. The following won't cost a cent.

Centro de Arte Contemporaneo - Crammed with exhibits and artifacts, this place is a wonderland for curious minds.

Metropolitan Park - Plenty of fun awaits at this fantastic place.

Equinoctial Technologica University - Architecture buffs will no doubt enjoy admiring the impressive modern design of this landmark.

National Polytechnic School - Pay a visit to this historic attraction and learn a bit about the cultural heritage of the region.

San Blas Square - Spend some time in this lively location and imagine life as a local resident.

Chamber of Commerce of Quito - Speak to a few locals and discover why many sightseers stop by this place.

Church of San Agustin - Do a little quiet contemplation and find out a few things about this site's spiritual importance.

Parque La Carolina - Recharge your mind and body by spending a little time in nature.

Things to Do in Quito with Kids

There's fun for the entire family wherever you roam in Quito. Here are some family friendly experiences to enjoy together that are bound to make your vacation unforgettable:


 

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Discover the most popular places to visit in Quito

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Quito

La Merced Church showing a square or plaza and a church or cathedral

Quito Historic Center

4.5/5(216 area reviews)

Churches, museums, and shopping are just a few things travelers like about Quito Historic Center. Sights like Independence Square and Catedral Metropolitana de Quito are spots to explore, and you can get around the greater Quito area at San Francisco Station.

Quito Historic Center
La Carolina showing a park and a pond

La Carolina

5/5(7 area reviews)

Discover local flora and fauna at the botanical gardens and reptile house, join a game of Ecuadorian soccer and enjoy the sights at this central urban park.

La Carolina
Quito featuring interior views, heritage elements and a church or cathedral

Centro Histórico

4.5/5(11 area reviews)

While you're in Centro Histórico, take in top sights like Calle La Ronda and jump on the metro at San Francisco Station to see more of the city.

Centro Histórico
Foch Square which includes dining out, modern architecture and cafe scenes

La Mariscal

4/5(176 area reviews)

La Mariscal is known for its abundant dining options, and you can plan a trip to Foch Square and La Mariscal Craft Market while you're in town.

La Mariscal
Guapulo featuring a castle

Itchimbia

While you're in Itchimbia, take in top sights like General Rumiñahui Coliseum or House of Ecuadorian Culture, and hop on the metro to see more the city at El Ejido Station or La Alameda Station.

Itchimbia
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La Floresta

La Floresta is noteworthy for its restaurants, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Abya Yala Museum and Trude Sojka Cultural House.

La Floresta

 

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Popular day trips from Quito

Frequently asked questions

Is Quito worth visiting?
Known for its culture and nature, discovering cool things to do in Quito is a breeze. Remember to add TelefériQo to your trip itinerary while here.
How do I spend a day in Quito?
Calle La Ronda and Carondelet Palace are two awesome places to kick-start your adventures. Be sure to check out the shopping and dining options in Quito while you're here too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Quito?
Don't leave without exploring TelefériQo, ranked the top tourist attraction in Quito.
Is three days enough to stay in Quito?
You can easily tick off top sights like TelefériQo, Calle La Ronda and Carondelet Palace with a three-day getaway in Quito. On average, many travelers book two days here. There's plenty to do and see nearby too, so stick around longer and check out Tababela.
Is Quito a walkable city?
It all depends on what you'd like to do and see in Quito. Several attractions, including TelefériQo and Calle La Ronda, are reachable on foot. If you're up for a wander around some of Quito's neighborhoods, La Carolina is 0.4 miles away from downtown, while Centro Histórico is 3 miles away from the city center and also within walking distance.
What are some activities to do in Quito with kids?
Planning what to do in Quito with kids has never been easier. Whether you have toddlers or teenagers, there are lots of family-friendly tours and activities to keep everyone happy here.

What to do in Quito for adults?
Parque Bicentenario and Government Platform for Social Development are just a couple of the things to do in Quito. With lots of activities available, there's something here for everyone to explore.
Are there free things to do in Quito?
One of the best ways to learn about free things to do in Quito is to chat to a local tour guide. You'll get insider advice on hip neighborhoods, parks and other highlights you can visit without getting your cash out. Calle La Ronda is one sight that doesn't have an entrance fee.