Located at 9,350 feet elevation, high in the Andes, Quito is a city that seamlessly combines breathtaking scenery with a rich history. As Ecuador's capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it's a unique blend of indigenous heritage and Spanish colonial architecture. Founded in 1534, Quito's historic center remains among Latin America's most beautifully preserved colonial districts, where every cobblestone street carries tales from the past.
Set along the Avenue of Volcanoes, Quito is not just Ecuador's capital—it's an adventurer's gateway. With the Amazon rainforest to the east and the Andes forming a natural amphitheater around the city, Quito's positioning is unlike most capitals. Its dramatic setting and year-round spring-like climate create an environment that's perfect for exploration, where ancient traditions and modern life coexist harmoniously.
Essential Things to Do in Quito
Basilica of the National Vow: Conquering New Heights
The Basilica of the National Vow is a neo-Gothic masterpiece with Ecuadorian character. Traditional European gargoyles give way to stone iguanas, tortoises, and Andean condors. The ascent itself feels like an adventure, starting in the main nave, where intricate architectural details captivate before the climb through various tower levels.
The journey to the top typically takes about two hours, with multiple stops offering increasingly stunning views. The initial stairs lead to the lower towers, followed by a thrilling wooden plank crossing that tests one's courage. The final ascent up the spiral staircase reveals a spectacular 360-degree view of Quito and its surrounding volcanoes. Mornings, particularly from 8:00 to 10:00 AM, offer the clearest skies and best photography opportunities. A small entrance fee of $2-5 grants access to all areas of the basilica, including a hidden café in the clock tower where climbers can enjoy traditional Ecuadorian coffee.
Mercado Central: A Culinary Delight
Mercado Central is the heart of Quito's food culture. It's a vibrant market where generations of vendors share Ecuador's culinary heritage. Between 9:00 AM and 1:00 PM, the market hums with energy as local chefs and home cooks seek out fresh ingredients, creating an atmosphere that's truly immersive.
At the heart of Mercado Central, a vibrant market that is the epitome of Quito's food culture, you'll find a selection of traditional dishes that showcase Ecuador's rich culinary heritage. The hornado, a slow-roasted pork dish with crispy skin, pairs perfectly with llapingachos—cheese-stuffed potato cakes. Locro de papa, a creamy potato soup enriched with cheese and avocado, offers warmth on chilly Andean mornings. Seafood fans will enjoy Ecuadorian ceviche, which is distinguished by its tomato-based sauce and generous portions of shrimp. These unique dishes are a must-try for any food enthusiast visiting Quito.
Wandering through the market, you'll find sections dedicated to Andean produce, where vendors explain the uses of fruits and vegetables unique to the region. The morning air fills with the aroma of morocho, a spiced corn drink, and fresh naranjilla juice. Most dishes cost between $5-15, providing excellent value for authentic local flavors.
Dining with a View:
Ananke Guápulo
Ananke Guápulo represents the evolution of Quito's culinary scene, where traditional ingredients meet contemporary cooking techniques against the backdrop of the Guápulo neighborhood. Famous for its wood-fired pizzas, the restaurant offers diners stunning views of the valley. The terrace, especially beautiful during sunset hours from 5:00 to 7:00 PM, provides a picturesque setting as city lights begin to sparkle.
The menu incorporates Ecuador's rich biodiversity into Mediterranean-inspired dishes. Signature pizzas arrive from wood-fired ovens with perfectly charred crusts, topped with local and imported ingredients that tell Ecuador's culinary story. The restaurant also offers house-made pasta with fresh seafood from the coast, while the bar crafts cocktails using regional spirits and Andean fruits. Meals here range from $15-30 per person, providing an exceptional dining experience in both flavor and setting.
Café Mosaico
Set on a hillside overlooking the city, Café Mosaico combines ambiance and altitude, becoming a favorite spot for sunset views over Quito. Expansive windows and terraces offer sweeping views of the historic center as it transitions from day to night, with Andean peaks adding drama to the scene.
Arriving around 5:00 PM allows time to settle into a window seat before sunset begins. The café's warm decor, with wooden beams and local artwork, creates an inviting atmosphere for lingering over drinks and snacks. The Ecuadorian coffee flight showcases the country's coffee diversity, and the traditional hot chocolate with local cheese provides a unique Andean treat.
As the sun dips behind the mountains, Quito's lights create a magical urban constellation below. The bartenders craft cocktails inspired by the colors of the sunset, while the kitchen offers appetizers perfect for sharing. Prices range from $10-20 per person, making this an affordable option for one of Quito's best views. Reservations are recommended, especially when clear weather promises the best sunsets.
Historic Plaza Grande
Plaza Grande, or Independence Square, pulses with Ecuador's rich history and contemporary culture. Surrounded by the country's most significant buildings, it serves as both a historical landmark and a gathering space. The Presidential Palace stands on one side, its facade reflecting Ecuador's political journey, while the Metropolitan Cathedral offers a reminder of the city's deep-rooted faith.
Mornings begin with the ceremonial changing of the guard, an event drawing onlookers for its tradition and precision. Throughout the day, the plaza fills with a mix of office workers, tourists, and street performers. Local vendors sell traditional ice creams, and musicians add to the lively atmosphere with Andean melodies.
Late afternoon brings a different energy as families gather for evening strolls. Cafes in the converted Archbishop's Palace are filled with people seeking coffee and conversation, and the golden hour light bathes colonial buildings in warm tones that are ideal for photography.
Exploring the Amazon
Although outside of Quito, an Amazon rainforest visit is essential to any Ecuador itinerary. The journey from the high Andes to the lush Amazon basin covers one of the world's most dramatic ecological transitions, making Quito the ideal starting point for a rainforest adventure.
The Amazon experience typically begins with a flight or drive to gateway cities like Coca or Lago Agrio, followed by a canoe ride deeper into the rainforest. Popular lodges such as La Selva and Napo Wildlife Center combine comfort with immersive experiences. Activities include canopy walks, night hikes to observe nocturnal wildlife, visits to local communities, and peaceful canoe rides through forests filled with monkeys and vibrant parrots.
Planning a visit to the Amazon rainforest from Quito is not only an adventure but also an affordable one. The best time to visit is from June to September, when drier conditions enhance exploration. Prices generally range from $200-500 per day, covering accommodations, meals, guided activities, and transportation from Quito. This investment grants access to one of the world's richest ecosystems, where encounters with diverse wildlife await.
Where to Stay: Hotel Plaza Grande Quito
In the heart of Quito's historic district, Hotel Plaza Grande combines colonial charm with modern comfort. This landmark hotel offers an authentic experience surrounded by Quito's cultural and historical highlights. The hotel's rooms blend period decor with contemporary amenities, each with unique views of the historic center or plaza.
The Plaza View Suites, particularly popular among visitors, provide front-row views of Quito's main square.
The flagship restaurant, La Belle Epoque, offers an innovative fusion of French and Ecuadorian cuisine, and the intimate wine cellar provides private dining experiences. The hotel's spa incorporates indigenous healing practices, offering a peaceful retreat after a day of exploring.
Plaza Grande also serves as a perfect base for exploring Quito. The concierge team creates customized itineraries, arranges private guides, and secures reservations at top dining spots.
Room rates range from $300-500 per night, reflecting the premium location and service.
Practical Considerations
Quito's altitude requires some adjustment for visitors. Plan to take it easy on your first day or two, stay hydrated, and avoid strenuous activities. The city's climate is spring-like, with rapid temperature changes; dressing in layers is best. Quito is generally safe for tourists, though urban precautions apply—use registered taxis, especially at night, and keep valuable items secure.
The city's new metro provides an efficient way to move between attractions, while the historic center is best explored on foot. Most restaurants and attractions accept credit cards, though cash is advisable for markets and small vendors. Spanish is the primary language, but English is often spoken in tourism settings. Knowing a few Spanish phrases will enhance your experience and show respect for the local culture.
Conclusion
Quito is a living history where ancient traditions blend with modern life against a volcanic backdrop. Every corner of Quito has things to do, from historic church towers to market flavors at Mercado Central. The city's rhythm rewards those who explore at a relaxed pace, savoring its heritage and immersing themselves in its unique blend of history, culture, and breathtaking scenery.
As you plan your visit, remember that every experience here builds upon the last, weaving a tapestry of memories as rich as the city itself. From sunsets at Café Mosaico to Amazon adventures, Quito promises moments that will stay with you. Here, where mountain peaks meet colonial bell towers, and cafés hum with modern life, your story awaits.
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