Quito
Cotopaxi, Quito
Quito
Quito

Why visit Quito

Quito is one of South America’s most captivating capitals, where colonial churches, bustling markets and panoramic Andean views combine to create a city that deserves far more than a single overnight stay. Perched at 2,850 metres beneath the slopes of Pichincha Volcano, it is the world’s second-highest capital and a wonderful introduction to Ecuador’s remarkable diversity.

At its heart lies the beautifully preserved Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with grand plazas, gilded churches and centuries-old monasteries. Wander its cobbled streets with an expert guide, browse artisan workshops and pause in elegant cafés housed within restored colonial mansions. Beyond the historic centre, Quito reveals a more contemporary side, with excellent restaurants, galleries and lively neighbourhoods such as La Floresta.

The city’s location also makes it the perfect gateway to the rest of Ecuador. Within a few hours you can be cloud forest hiking at Mashpi, exploring indigenous markets around Otavalo or standing beneath the snow-capped cone of Cotopaxi. Even closer, the Equator Monument offers a fascinating insight into the country’s namesake.

For us, Quito is not simply a place to pass through. Spend two or three nights here, and you’ll discover a city rich in history, culture and cuisine, with enough character to become a memorable destination in its own right.

Quito

Highlights of Quito

  • One of South America’s finest colonial centres – Explore Quito’s UNESCO-listed Old Town, where beautifully restored churches, grand plazas and elegant colonial mansions tell the story of Ecuador’s Spanish heritage.
  • Ride above the city on the TelefériQo – Ascend the slopes of Pichincha Volcano by cable car for sweeping views across the city and access to high-altitude walking trails.
  • Exceptional food scene – From refined tasting menus showcasing Ecuadorian ingredients to vibrant local markets, Quito has become one of the country’s most exciting culinary destinations.
  • Gateway to Ecuador’s highlights – Perfectly positioned for onward journeys to Mashpi Cloud Forest, Otavalo, Cotopaxi National Park, the Avenue of Volcanoes and, by air, the Galápagos Islands.
  • Meet local artisans and traditions – Discover traditional crafts, chocolate makers and family-run workshops that provide a fascinating insight into Ecuador’s living cultural heritage.
  • History beyond the guidebooks – Visit beautifully preserved monasteries, hidden courtyards and remarkable religious art collections with expert guides who bring the city’s past vividly to life.
  • Latin America’s most moving art museum – Visit the remarkable Capilla del Hombre, where the monumental works of Oswaldo Guayasamín tell the story of the Americas through powerful, thought-provoking paintings and sculpture.
The first UNESCO site

Quito was the first city in the world to be designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, sharing the honour with Kraków in 1978 thanks to its remarkably preserved colonial centre.

Modern Quito

Quito’s creative district of La Floresta has become a hub for independent galleries, design studios, speciality coffee shops and innovative restaurants, offering a contemporary contrast to the city’s historic heart.

Good to know

Getting to Quito

There are no direct flights to Quito from the UK, with routes via Amsterdam, Madrid or Bogotá being the most often used.

If you are travelling from the US, there are direct flights from Miami, New York and Dallas.

When to go

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OUR FAVOURITE TIME TO VISIT

Due to its proximity to the mountains, Quito receives over 1,000mm of rain a year, but that tends to fall in short, sharp showers that leave the rest of the day clear and make it a city you can visit year-round. While most visitors will be there between June and September, when it is at its driest, February for carnival season and November for Day of the Dead celebrations are two of the best months to really experience the city.

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