25 Amazing Things to do in Quito, Ecuador

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In this travel guide, we’ll show you the 25 BEST things to do in Quito, Ecuador that will blow you away. This includes the best day trips from Quito so you can use the city as a base to explore Ecuador.

Quito is the capital of Ecuador. This huge sprawling city isn’t always the most inviting at first, and for some, it can be a daunting place to visit. Although I felt the same when I first arrived, I now view Quito as one of the top destinations in South America.

But why?

Well, it’s not just the sheer amount of interesting things to do in the city of Quito but also what lies just outside the city limits. With stunning national parks, volcanos, and wildlife, Quito is the ultimate place to explore some of Ecuador’s top attractions.

So, instead of spending a day or two in Quito, I dare you to stay a little longer. Use this city as your base to explore the surrounding national parks and the stunning architecture of the city center.

To keep you busy, here are my 25 favorite things to do in Quito, Ecuador!

Things to do in Quito, Ecuador

1. Walk the historic center

This is an obvious place to start, one can’t visit Quito without checking out the historic center and all it has to offer. In the historic center, you’ll find stunning colonial buildings, cute cafes and restaurants, and also the presidential palace at Plaza Grande.

The historic center of Quito was even named a UNESCO Cultural Heritage Site for its well preserved colonial buildings.

This area of the city is very safe for you to wander the streets and it’s often busy with locals and visitors alike. So, enjoy wandering around and find yourself a lovely place to enjoy a meal or a coffee!

If you would like to have a guide show you around the historic center then this 2-hour walking tour is a great choice for $25 USD. The highlights include learning about the Independence Square, San Agustin Church, the catacombs, the change of the presidential guard (Mondays only) and much more.

2. Quilotoa Crater

Quilotoa Crater is one of the best things to do in Quito and a tour I loved! This is a massive crater is a volcano that is now filled with a gorgeous blue lake.

Some people visit Quilotoa Crater as part of the Quilotoa Loop. This hiking trail is 3 to 5 days long and if you’re a keen hiker you should consider completing the track. We had just finished hiking in Patagonia so we decided to do a private day trip to see the crater from Quito for $85 USD each.

On the 11-hour tour, we drove out to the crater via a short detour to a viewpoint of Quito. We then enjoyed the views of the crater from the top before we hiked down to the lake. Along the way, our guide shared some information about the crater with us and we also had the opportunity to go kayaking in the lake.

Overall, it was a great day and a tour I highly recommend as this crater is so beautiful! Be aware though, the walk back to the top is tough!

Related Read: If you are an avid hiker check out our list of the best hikes in South America!

3. Visit the Mitad del Mundo Monument

The most popular thing to do in Quito is actually an experience I found very overrated! The Mitad del Mundo Monument marks the equator in Ecuador and is the most visited monument in Ecuador.

Here at the monument, you can stand in the middle of the world and also climb the trapezoid stone memorial (for free) and get amazing views of the rest of the area.

With that said, you’re visiting an imaginary line (equator) that as it turns out is a few hundred feet north of the monument. So why is it on this list? Well, I couldn’t not mention it, but I will warn you, there are better ways to spend your time in Quito!

Of course, since finding the true equator you can now visit the real equator line at the Museo de Sitio Intinan located a few hundred feet from the monument. The entrance here is $4 USD.

The Mitad del Mundo Monument is located around 30 kilometers (18.5 miles) from Quito city center. It cots $5 USD to enter the monument. To reach the monument by bus get yourself to Ofelia Station and from here take the Mitad del Mundo bus that drops you at the entrance to the monument.

If getting the bus isn’t your cup of tea then this guided tour to the monument is a great choice. It includes a visit to Teleferico (the next thing to do in Quito on this list)! It lasts 5 hours and costs $72 USD per person and you can choose to add on a 3-hour city tour at the end for just an additional $17 USD.

4. Ride the Teleferiqo

I love visiting viewpoints of large cities. There’s just something about looking down into a crazy metropolitan area from a quiet viewpoint and thinking about the day-to-day lives of the people in the city.

For that reason, you CAN’T leave Quito without taking a trip up the Teleferiqo. This cable car travels up to over 4,000 meters (13,123 feet) above sea level on the Pichincha Volcano and gives you stunning views of the city below and sometimes the Cotopaxi volcano.

At the top, you can ride one of the swings and get an amazing photo, enjoy a coffee, or if you’re keen, hike to the top of the Pichincha Volcano. To complete the hike allow 4 hours and be prepared for the 2,550 feet (762 meters) of altitude that you will gain.

The teleferiqo costs $9 USD for adults and $7 USD for children and operates from 9 am to 7 pm daily. To get to the teleferiqo just take a cab from downtown for a few dollars.

If you don’t want to go on your own, there are private tours such as this one that also visits Mitad del Mundo (yes, it’s the same one I mentioned for the previous activty on this list).

2023 Update: Currently the Teleferiqo is temporarily closed so make sure to check the official website for updates before you plan on visiting.

5. Go on a free walking tour

Free walking tours are a great way to see a city for a fraction of the cost of a private tour. For a modest tip, you can learn all about Quito from a local guide and meet lots of other travelers along the way.

Personally, I love free walking tours and do them in every city I visit. The one in Quito is really good and comes highly recommended by me! The tour to do is the one organized through the Community Hostel.

The Comunity Hostel runs two tours, one at 10.30 am and the other at 2.30 pm. The meeting point is at the community Adventures travel agency. You can book your spot on the tour too.

6. Climb the Basílica del Voto Nacional

The Basílica del Voto Nacional is the largest neo-gothic basilica in all of Latin America. To put it simply, this cathedral is stunning and the architecture is immaculate. You just have to visit the Basílica del Voto Nacional on any visit to Quito!

The entrance to the cathedral is only $2 USD and you can wander into the auditorium and admire the stained glass window. If you want to check out the lower level and also climb to the top of the cathedral there is a separate $2 USD fee.

From the top, the views of the city are breathtaking! This is a super cheap activity to do in Quito and the best part is that the church is located in the historic center so it’s convenient to visit.

The inside also has a small cafe close to the entrance if you want to grab a small snack or coffee.

7. Walk along Calle de La Ronda

If you thought the streets of the historic center were beautiful just wait until you visit Calle de La Ronda. This gorgeous street is famous in the city and is lined on either side with small colonial buildings.

The street was a very popular place for artists and musicians to live in the past and that influence has been left behind.

There are lots to do on Calle de la Ronda including a visit to the Casa De Las Artes Museum, enjoying live music, and getting a bite to eat at a cafe or restaurant. By no means is this a bucket-list place to visit but the cute vibe and welcoming atmosphere make it the perfect place to stop in the historic center of Quito.

8. Watch the changing of the guard

I have seen a few changing of the guard ceremonies during my travels and the one in Quito was impressive, to say the least. I mean, they even used horses!

The entire show is really worth a look and the president himself attends from his balcony. This is popular among visitors and locals so the plaza does get really busy.

So, if you do happen to be in Quito on a Monday (it’s only on Mondays) then head to Plaza Grande at 11 am sharp to watch the changing of the guard.

9. Visit the Museo Templo del Sol Pintor Ortega Maila

The Templo del Sol Pintor Ortega Maila (that’s one long name) is one of the most underrated things to do in Quito. The museum was built by the indigenous painter and sculptor Ortega Maila using traditional building techniques to preserve the Andean culture.

On a visit to the museum, you will be taken on an hour-long tour through the grounds and learn all about the native people of Ecuador as well as look at paintings and sculptures.

The place is beautifully designed and the works of art are very impressive. Overall, it’s a great learning experience.

It costs $3 USD to enter the museum and take the tour. Also included in the admission fee is a coca tea and aromatherapy session.

To get to the museum, take the same bus you would go to Ciudad Mitad del Mundo. From there you can get a taxi to the museum for a few dollars.

If you wish, you can also join this private guided tour for $55 USD which also includes a visit to Pululahua (a dormant volcano) where you will learn about its history and take in the stunning view. This tour lasts 4 hours and transportation is included.

Hot Tip: Visit the Museo Templo del Sol Pintor Cristobal Ortega Maila at the same time ast the Ciudad Mitad del Mundo.

10. Take a trip to the Secret Garden Hostel in Cotopaxi

I know what you’re thinking, why would staying at a hostel be considered one of the best things to do in Quito? Well, the reason is simple, this hostel/hotel is so amazing it’s one of the best places I have stayed ever! Yes, I said it – ever!

Located in the Cotopaxi Provence just outside of Quito, Secret Garden Hostel is a stunning hostel that overlooks the volcano region of Ecuador, and from the hostel, you can clearly see Cotopaxi Volcano.

The hostel itself is nothing fancy but with communal meals and plenty of social areas to enjoy the breathtaking view, it’s a great place to enjoy. The best part is the nightly rate that begins at $10 USD for a shared dorm but you can also pay a bit more for private rooms.

Also from the hostel, you can head off and explore the area around you. There are lots of tours such as this full-day sightseeing tour of Cotopaxi Volcano, this 2-day 1-night tour to Cotopaxi Volcano and Quilotoa Lagoon, going Horseback Riding around Cotopaxi, and other free hikes and activities.

Personally, the 2-day 1-night tour is the option I’d recommend most to explore Cotopaxi because you won’t be rushed on time but if you only have a day the full-day tour would still be worth doing to see the volcano up close!

The hostel is more for young travelers so if you want something a little nicer then the Chilcabamba Lodge or Hacienda Santa Ana are great hotels in the same area with the same views!

Getting to the hostel is easy with the Secret Garden Quito (their other hostel) shuttle for $5 USD each way. The hostel also offers packages that include all food and 2-night accommodation starting at $100 USD.

You can check availability for the Secret Garden Hostel and book in advance on Hostelworld.

11. Party at Plaza Fotch

Plaza Fotch is the best place to socialize at night in Quito. Known as the party district, this is the place to be pretty much any day of the week. There are lots of good bars and restaurants around, but a place I loved was Bandido del Paramo.

Here you could drink locally crafted beers including my favorite, IPA. Of course, there are plenty of other places to try and you’d need weeks to visit them all. So, just take a wander and enjoy the atmosphere regardless if you like to party or not!

12. Day trip to Cotopaxi National Park

If you’re short on time then the best way to visit Cotopaxi National Park is on a day trip from Quito. Although not the most ideal way to see the park, it is still a very enjoyable option that I highly recommend.

This specific tour is the one I did mainly because of the fantastic reviews. On the tour, we hiked up Cotopaxi Volcano to the glacier (some people didn’t get that far), visited the Limpiopungo Lagoon, enjoyed a nice breakfast and lunch, and learned a lot about the flora and fauna of the region.

The tour isn’t the easiest as there is a lot to cram into one day but if you don’t have much time it’s the best way to see Cotopaxi National Park. Plus, it is rather affordable priced at just $69 USD, and includes the National Park fees.

13. Explore Parque Carolina 

Parque Carolina is a massive park in the center of Quito. Known as the NY Central Park of Ecuador, the green space spans 165 acres and is one of the best places within the city, to escape the city. 

On weekends, the park is filled with locals who come to enjoy the outdoors with lots of sports and playgrounds on offer. But, of course, as the visitors come, so do the vendors with plenty of food stalls and small shops. 

Visit the giant skatepark and watch some of the local talents. Or, rent a paddleboat and explore the park via the artificial river. Personally, I just love taking a walk here for a break from the hustle and bustle that is in Quito! 

Visiting Parque Carolina is completely free, but activities within the park generally cost something. The park is open 24 hours a day, but I would only recommend going during daylight hours as a visitor. 

14. Walk up to Parque Itchimbia 

Another park that’s a must-visit in Quito is Parque Itchimbia. You can walk up to the park via a few sets of stairs for a spectacular view of the city.

While you’re there, head over to the Palacio de Cristal and admire the architecture of this unique and interesting structure. The building actually originated in Germany and was shipped to Quito over 100 years earlier. Then, get a quick photo with the Quito sign!

There are 2.4 kilometers (1.5 miles) of trails to explore within the park as well as 400 different species of flowers and 40 species of birds – you could spend a few hours here. However, if you do plan on exploring, I recommend traveling in groups as some areas are relatively secluded. 

There are some local restaurants and street vendors in the park, so find a nice spot to relax and enjoy a picnic with an epic view. Although the park is a nice place to visit at sunset, I wouldn’t hang around here after dark. Instead, take off as the sun disappears, just to be cautious. 

Visiting the park is completely free (unless you need a parking spot,) and you can find the entrance to the park here. You can walk to Parque Itchimbia from Plaza Grande (it’s 1.5 kilometers/0.9 miles) or take a cheap Uber from your hotel. 

15. Explore the central market

Although you can eat Ecuadorian food all over the city, if you want a truly local meal or want to eat local fruits then Mercado Central is a place you must visit.

Now don’t get me wrong, the meals here are not fancy but they are delicious and cheap! Throughout the market, you can get amazing food with the main floor being filled with eateries.

This is the place to get a cheap meal and fresh juice. In fact, both will set you back a mere $3 USD!

The Central Market is located on Av. Pichincha, walking distance from Plaza Grande in the historical center.

16. Day tour to Antisana Volcano

Cotopaxi gets all of the attention in Ecuador. However, if you’re looking for a great off-the-beaten-path experience then take a day trip to Antisana Volcano.

This little-known volcano is a stunning place to visit and is famous for being one of the best places to see condors in Ecuador. In fact, most tours here are based around condor viewing.

With that said, the main attraction is the glacier-covered Antisana Volcano which you’ll be able to see from many viewpoints on the tour. You’ll also take a 1-hour hike to enjoy the scenery and look for wildlife.

Overall the tour to Antisana Volcano was a great day out and had only a fraction of other visitors compared to Cotopaxi National Park. It costs $149 USD per person for this 9-hour tour.

17. Tour the city drinking craft beer 

If you’ve ever met Daniel and I, you would know we just absolutely love craft beer. You can try delicious craft beer all around Ecuador, but no place is as good as the capital city. Quito’s craft beer scene is exploding!

Some of the best breweries to visit in Quito include Abysmo Brewery, Andes Brewing Co, Bandido Brewing, Bandidos Del Paramo, and Camino Del Sol. Some are close to the city center, others you may need to Uber to, but please visit at least one brewery if you love craft beer. 

Of course, if you consider yourself a connoisseur or just want a guide to lead the way, you can join this Quito craft beer tour. The cost averages around $75 USD per person (it gets cheaper per person with the more people you go with) and includes all your tastings at a few fantastic breweries in the historic Old Town.

You’ll also learn a lot about Ecuador’s history and the new and old culture around beer. At the end of the tour, you’ll get to take home two bottles of Ecuadorian micro-beers!

If you haven’t yet explored Quito you could also pay a little bit more for this full-day tour. It mixes sightseeing and ends with a craft beer tasting of around 4 to 5 samples! Some of the highlights are the Intinan Museum, visiting a hidden farm to see hundreds of wild hummingbirds, and visiting the Mitad del Mundo complex.

18. Fuya Fuya Hiking Day Trip (Lagunas de Mojanda)

Around 2 hours from Quito lies another crater lake that isn’t as popular as Quilotoa Lake is just as beautiful. Lagunas de Mojanda was formed by the collapse of the Dacite Volcano and is 3 kilometers (1.9 miles) in diameter. The rim around the lake is a great place to hike, and the most popular is Fuya Fuya. 

The trail to the top isn’t overly long, but it is steep, and you will need to climb just under 2,000 feet (610 meters) to the top. Once there, the views of the lake below and the Andes are spectacular. A must-see for those who love to hike! 

If you have your own vehicle, you can drive out to the crater lake and hike the 2.6-mile (4.2 km) Fuya Fuya trail from there. You can find the start of the trail on Maps.me, not Google Maps. 

Those without transport can hike Fuya Fuya on a day tour from Quito. This full-day tour to the volcano provides transport there and back, lunch, and all fees.

On top of that, they visit the Otavalo Market on the way back where you can buy some cheap produce, buy a souvenir from the Indian Market, or just people-watch! For just $125 USD this is just a great value tour.

19. Papallacta Hot Springs

If you’ve been on the go lately then this next thing to do in Quito will be a nice surprise! The Papallacta Hot Springs are Quito’s best hot springs. Here you can relax in beautiful surroundings and enjoy some peace and quiet.

Unfortunately getting there isn’t easy so it’s best to take a tour. I myself didn’t take a tour. However, I was staying at a hotel called the Rukka Lodge before I went to the Galapagos Islands (it’s not far from the airport) which is closer to the hot springs than Quito.

But, if you really want to relax and enjoy these beautiful hot springs then the tours are actually great value. You can take this tour with a bilingual guide for $159 USD and it includes general admission which is $23 on its own!

20. Learn to cook Ecuadorian food 

While in Ecuador, you might find yourself falling in love with the local cuisine. I mean, you’re only human. So, why not impress your friends back home and learn to cook some Ecuadorian food with a talented chef?

This cooking class in Quito takes you on a culinary journey that begins at the Quito Central Market to smell and sample the fresh ingredients that make the food taste so amazing. Then, it’s off to a private kitchen to learn all the Ecuadorian cooking techniques before helping to cook a 4-course meal. 

Afterward, sample your food with a sit-down dinner and meet lots of other travelers along the way. This is easily one of the best tours in Quito, Ecuador! 

21. Mindo Nambillo Cloud Forest Reserve

The Mindo Nambillo Cloud Forest Reserve is a paradise filled with wildlife and adventure activities. In fact, the reserve has one of the highest concentrations of biodiversity anywhere on the planet!

From Quito, you can explore this place on many different day trips from bird-watching tours, adventure tours, or a mix of both.

The reserve is stunning and in my opinion, the best tour is a mix of wildlife, adventure, and hiking. This specific private tour hits all of the best places to visit including the hummingbird sanctuary inside of the butterfly garden and a tour of the chocolate factory.

The cost of the tour begins at $100 USD and one of the adventure tours is included in the cost so you’ll need to pay a little extra if you want to do any of the others.

Overall, it’s a great trip from Quito for those who love nature!

22. Take a day or overnight trip to Baños 

Baños is known as the adventure capital of Ecuador. However, not everyone adds this remote destination to their Ecuador itinerary. If that’s you, then don’t worry, although spending a few nights is ideal. You can always do a day or overnight trip from Quito.

The first option is this full-day tour to Baños. Although not my first option, those short on time won’t regret visiting Baños even for just for the day. You’ll visit Cotopaxi National Park to see the volcano, the swing at the end of the world, and the Devil’s Cauldron waterfall. There are also other stops for zip lines and other activities, but these aren’t included in the tour price. 

If you can spare a little more time, this two-day, one-night Baños tour is the perfect option. It includes a ton of extra stops, and because you have more time, you’ll get a much more in-depth introduction to Banos. 

Of course, there are so many amazing things to do in Baños that I highly suggest adding the town to your itinerary! 

23. Eat your way around the city 

They say the best way to explore a culture is through food, and I agree! If you’re on a budget, take a walk around the city and sample interesting food from local vendors. There is so much to try, such as empanadas or Llapingachos, which are mashed potato pancakes stuffed with cheese and then fried. 

However, for a more in-depth experience, get yourself a local guide to show you around – they know the best places to eat. 

This specific Quito food tour begins with a history lesson around the city so you can truly understand the influences of Ecuadorian food. Then it’s off to Mercado Central to try a huge variety of exotic fruits and other local dishes from the Sierra region. The tour then visits Independence Square, where you’ll taste lots of pastries, both sweet and savory. 

You’ll eat so much food that I’d recommend skipping breakfast even though the tour doesn’t begin until 10 am.

It costs $100 USD and lasts between 4 to 5 hours long. It is a private tour so only your group will participate.

24. Visit the Otavalo Market

Last but certainly not least…well not quite. This is, unfortunately, my least favorite thing I did in Quito. However, it was something Bailey enjoyed so I’m including it on my own free will (help!)

The Otavalo Market is a famous market in Ecuador that you can visit for a night or two, or join a day trip from Quito. At the market, you can buy lots of authentic Ecuadorian crafts but the main attraction is fabrics.

For me personally, the market was average, but overall the tour was pretty good. On our tour, we visited Cuicocha Lagoon which is a volcanic lake, took a boat trip, and also did a short hike through a forest to a waterfall.

My biggest complaint is the market is a 2-hour drive from Quito so it is a long day. With that said, the extra activities make it worth it and I found the price of $79 USD to be great value. If you want to shop for souvenirs then you’ll love the tour just as Bailey did!

25. Trek to the Condor Machay Waterfall

One of the most beautiful natural sites right outside of Quito is the Condor Machay Waterfall. You will most definitely want to take the time to visit if you are up for a fun adventure!

The impressive 80 ft tall (24 m) Confor Machay Waterfall is also referred to as the El Nido de Condor which literally translates to “Condor’s Nest”. Sometimes you can luck out and spot these creatures circling overhead!

The easy 2.4 miles (3.9 kilometers) with minimal elevation gain goes through elfin forests, across iron bridges, and past other pretty waterfalls. Sometimes it can be a bit muddy so make sure to have the proper footwear.

You’re allowed to swim in the different waterfall pools so don’t leave your suit at home!

It takes most people an average of 3 hours in total to visit this waterfall and it is suitable for the whole family. If you don’t have your own transport, the best way to get here is on a guided tour.

This one in particular begins at $173 USD per person if you are coming in a group of 2 and goes down in cost the larger your group is. On top of round-trip transport, it includes a bilingual guide and lunch boxes for you to enjoy once at the waterfall.

If you are a budget traveler you could also take a string of public transportation from Quito for less than $20 USD round trip including the entrance fee.

Where to Stay in Quito, Ecuador

Hostels

Secret Garden Hostel – This is the most famous Hostel in Quito. Secret Garden is a party hostel but the rooms are still reasonably quiet at night which is a good balance. The rooftop here is awesome and a reason to stay in itself! The cost for a bed in a mixed dorm begins at just $11 USD and you also will have the choice of upgrading to a private room with a shared bathroom.

You can check availability and book on Hostelworld

Community Hostel – Community Hostel is the perfect mix of a social hostel that isn’t a crazy party hostel. It has a rooftop bar with delicious food and drinks. You can easily meet other travelers and enjoy communal activities but still get a great night’s sleep! The nightly rate here gets as low as $8 USD!

You can check availability on Booking.com or Hostelworld

Comfortable Hotels

Boutique Hotel Casa Foch – This is a small boutique hotel located in the heart of the historic center. It’s clean, comfortable, and includes a superb breakfast. Some rooms even include a balcony and fireplace. Starting at just $35 USD a night for a private room it makes a great choice for those looking for a comfortable but cheap stay in Quito.

You can check availability and book Boutique Hotel Casa Foch on Booking.com.

Penthouse Lodge B&B – If it’s available (it’s often not) this is the best value place to stay in Quito for around $50 USD a night. Rooms are stunning, breakfast is included and the place has amazing views of the city. This is not a hotel but more of an Airbnb-style rental.

You can check availability and book Penthouse Lodge B&B on Booking.com.

Luxury Hotels

MERCURE Hotel Alameda – This place is absolutely stunning. The central location is perfect, the rooms are beautiful, and the service is amazing. The property has a modern-looking pool and hot tub to enjoy yourself in too! If your budget allows you to spend around $90 USD per night, this is likely the best choice in Quito!

You can check availability and book MERCURE Hotel Alameda on Booking.com.

Holiday Inn Express Quito – Unlike most Holiday Inn Express hotels where we’re from in Canada, this one in Ecuador is pure luxury. The decor is really beautiful and the attention to detail is really something to applaud. The location is in a very safe area of the historic center. Amenities included are a hot breakfast, fitness center, and pool. Expect to pay only $100 USD per night.

You can check availability and book Holiday Inn Express Quito on Booking.com.

Related Read: Vising Peru while in South America? Find out all of the best things to do in Peru!

Thanks for reading!

Thank you so much for taking the time to read our guide to the best things to do in Quito, Ecuador. We both really hope you enjoyed reading it and now have a huge list of awesome activities to cross off your Quito bucket list!

If you have any questions at all, please leave them below! Also, if you liked this travel guide you may also want to check out the travel guides listed below!

All the best things to do in Banos, Ecuador

Guide to visiting the Poor Mans Galapagos Island in Ecuador

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