Your Complete Guide to Exploring the Best of Quito
Quito, Ecuador’s capital, is a vibrant city nestled in the Andes, offering a mix of modern amenities and rich cultural heritage. It’s a popular base for holidaymakers and backpackers, with affordable accommodation options and a lively atmosphere. The city’s colonial architecture, bustling markets, and cool mountain climate provide a unique and welcoming experience for visitors.
When to visit
Temp
Jun – Sep
15 – 20°C
59 – 68°F
Quito’s Top Attractions
Attraction Matrix
Search for attractions that you are interested in based on WindingTravel categories:
WindingTravel Category Examples
Nature & Outdoors: Hiking, National Parks, Beaches, Wildlife Viewing, Camping
Culture & History: Museums, Monuments, Historical Buildings, Cultural Tours, Art Galleries
Food & Drink: Local Cuisine, Food Tours, Markets, Wineries/Breweries, Street Food
Entertainment & Nightlife: Bars, Nightclubs, Live Music, Festivals, Comedy Clubs
Adventure Sports: Surfing, Skydiving, Rafting, Scuba Diving, Climbing
Relaxation & Wellness: Spas, Hot Springs, Yoga Retreats, Meditation Centres, Thermal Baths
Shopping & Markets: Souvenirs, Flea Markets, Shopping Districts, Boutique Shops, Craft Fairs
Unique Experiences: Workshops, Volunteering, Local Festivals, Artisan Crafts, Rooftop Bars
City Highlights: Iconic Landmarks, Famous Streets, Observation Decks, Architectural Tours, Scenic Views
Family-Friendly: Zoos, Aquariums, Theme Parks, Interactive Museums, Educational Centres
Country Highlights: Attractions that are on the WindingTravel Country page that most tourists wont want to miss!
Review further details of each attraction to find out more:
| Historic Centre of Quito (Old Town) | Wander cobbled streets lined with Baroque churches, colonial squares, and colourful façades in one of Latin America’s best-preserved historic centres, full of vibrant local culture and architecture. |
| La Mitad del Mundo (Equator Monument) | Stand on the equator line at this monument and interactive museum, offering science exhibits, cultural displays, and the chance to straddle two hemispheres at once. |
| Mindo Cloud Forest | Explore lush cloud forest just two hours from Quito with opportunities to go birdwatching, ziplining, waterfall hiking, and chocolate tasting in a biodiverse natural paradise. |
| Otavalo Market | Visit one of South America’s most famous indigenous markets, known for colourful textiles, crafts, and local goods. A lively atmosphere and deep cultural significance make it a must-visit. |
| TelefériQo Cable Car & Volcano Hike | Ride one of the world’s highest cable cars up Pichincha Volcano for incredible city and mountain views, then hike onwards to the summit for an adventurous high-altitude challenge. |
| Basilica del Voto Nacional | Climb this neo-Gothic cathedral’s towers for dramatic panoramic views of Quito. Unusual details like iguana and turtle gargoyles reflect Ecuadorian wildlife in sacred stone. |
| Plaza Foch (La Mariscal District) | Quito’s main nightlife hub offers bars, clubs, and eateries in a lively setting popular with locals and travellers. A good spot for drinks, dancing, and socialising after dark. |
| Capilla del Hombre & Guayasamín Museum | Learn about Ecuador’s recent history and human struggle through powerful art by famed painter Oswaldo Guayasamín. The hilltop setting adds a reflective and moving atmosphere. |
| Calle La Ronda | Enjoy Quito’s oldest street, now a lively hub for artisanal shops, chocolate cafés, and musicians. This atmospheric alley blends history, culture, and food in a pedestrian-only setting. |
| El Panecillo & Virgin Statue Viewpoint | Climb or drive up to this iconic hilltop statue for sweeping views over Quito. The site blends religious symbolism with a memorable cityscape backdrop. |
Check the map to plan your route:
Transport
In Quito, public transportation includes the Ecovía, Trolebús, and Metrobus systems, offering affordable travel options. For more personalized services, ride-hailing apps like Uber, Cabify, and EasyTaxi are widely used, providing convenient and safe transportation throughout the city .
Seasonality and Weather
Quito, being located at a high altitude, experiences a mild climate year-round, with little variation in temperature. The rainy season lasts from October to May, with afternoon showers and temperatures ranging between 14°C to 20°C (57°F to 68°F). The dry season, from June to September, brings cooler temperatures and less rain, making it a great time to visit. While the weather is pleasant throughout the year, the dry season is ideal for outdoor activities.
Where to stay
The best areas for tourists to stay in Quito offer diverse experiences:
La Mariscal – A lively neighbourhood with budget hostels, cafés, and nightlife, popular among backpackers.
Old Town (Centro Histórico) – Ideal for those seeking a historical and cultural experience, with colonial architecture and easy access to main attractions.
La Floresta – A trendy, quieter area with boutique hotels, art galleries, and local dining spots.
North Quito (Nuevo Quito) – Offers upscale hotels and shopping malls, suitable for those looking for modern amenities.
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