Top 15 Things to Do in Quito, Ecuador

On the hunt for the best things to do in Quito, Ecuador? You’re in luck. Quito is one of South America’s most fascinating cities, and it’s nothing like anywhere else.

Nearly 9,350 feet (2,850 meters) above sea level, Quito stretches across an Andean valley, with volcanic peaks all around. The capital city literally touches the equator and feels like a high-altitude cultural time capsule.

Quito’s Old Town is a mix of colonial churches, carved wooden balconies, and busy plazas. It was the first-ever UNESCO World Heritage Site, and for good reason. It’s not preserved behind glass: it’s alive and humming with everyday life.

Our guide walks you through the top things to do in Quito, including local spots and hidden gems that only longtime Quiteños talk about. If you’re wondering what to do in Quito, we’re here to help you make sure you don’t miss a thing.

Top 15 things to do in Quito

From historic churches to sweeping views, here are the most fun things to do in Quito.

1. Wander through Quito’s historic center

Step into the past as you walk down narrow streets filled with colonial Spanish buildings, time-worn churches, and busy plazas.

• Why it’s special: It’s one of the largest and best-preserved historic centers in Latin America and was the first UNESCO World Heritage Site.

• Best for: Culture lovers, photographers, and history buffs.

• Top tip: Go early to avoid crowds. Many churches are open by 9 am. Bring small bills for local snacks and street performers.

2. Visit Plaza Grande and the Presidential Palace

This grand square is the political and cultural heart of the city, surrounded by historic buildings and lively street scenes. 

• Why it’s special: It’s home to the Carondelet Palace, the seat of Ecuador’s government, and you can take a free tour inside.

• Best for: History lovers and architecture fans.

• Top tip: A great stop if you’re looking for free things to do in Quito. Free guided tours are available Tuesday to Sunday.

3. Step inside La Compañía de Jesús

A morning view of Quito’s Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesús and its green and gold domes, with Volcano Cotopaxi in the distance

Prepare to be amazed by this ornate baroque church covered in seven tons of gold leaf.

• Why it’s special: It’s one of South America’s most elaborately decorated churches and a masterpiece of Quito’s religious art.

• Best for: Art enthusiasts and architecture geeks.

• Top tip: Photography isn’t allowed inside, so take it all in with your eyes.

4. Explore the San Francisco Church and Convent

A morning view of Quito’s Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesús and its green and gold domes, with Volcano Cotopaxi in the distance

This 16th-century complex is one of the city’s oldest religious landmarks. It’s often featured in guides for things to do in Quito’s Old Town, and for good reason.

• Why it’s special: Built on ancient Inca ruins, it blends indigenous and Spanish influences.

• Best for: History buffs and spiritual travelers.

• Top tip: The convent museum is worth visiting for its peaceful cloisters and rooftop views.

5. Climb Panecillo Hill and see the Virgin of Quito

Quito Ecuador April 2018 This statue represents the Virgin of Panecillo. It is located on the top of the omonymous hill in Quito. It was built in 1976 by Pablo Vega and attracts many tourists fot its architecture.

Head to this iconic hilltop statue for some of the most sweeping views in the city.

• Why it’s special: The towering Virgin of Quito is a rare winged Madonna, made of 7,000 pieces of aluminum.

• Best for: View seekers and sunset chasers.

• Top tip: Go during the day with a guided tour or taxi. Walking up alone isn’t recommended for safety reasons.

6. Ride the TelefériQo Cable Car

Float up nearly 13,000 feet (4,000 meters) above sea level for astonishing views of Quito and the surrounding volcanoes.

• Why it’s special: It’s one of the highest gondola rides in the world and a gateway to hiking trails like Rucu Pichincha.

• Best for: Adventurers and nature lovers.

• Top tip: Dress warm, as it gets chilly at the top. This attraction is great for those exploring things to do in Quito, Ecuador, in March, when the skies are often clear early in the day.

7. Stand on the equator at Mitad del Mundo

The equatorial line building in Mitad del Mundo (Middle of the World) in Quito, Ecuador.

Take a photo on the yellow line and say you’ve stood on both hemispheres at the same time at Mitad del Mundo.

• Why it’s special: It marks the original location of the equator line. There’s also a museum and planetarium nearby.

• Best for: Families and curious minds.

• Top tip: Combine it with the nearby Intiñan Museum for a science-based experience.

8. Stroll through Itchimbía Park and Crystal Palace

Relax above the city with lots of green space, art installations, and incredible skyline views.

• Why it’s special: The Crystal Palace is a glass-and-iron building that hosts cultural events and exhibits.

• Best for: Picnickers, walkers, and urban explorers.

• Top tip: Come around sunset for dreamy golden-hour views over the Old Town.

9. Hang out on La Ronda Street

La Ronda picturesque curve street in colonial Quito Ecuador South America

This bohemian alleyway is filled with artisan shops, cozy cafés, and street musicians.

• Why it’s special: It’s one of the oldest streets in Quito, with plenty of food, crafts, and music.

• Best for: Couples, solo travelers, and night owls.

• Top tip: Best enjoyed in the evening. Try traditional canelazo (a hot spiced drink) at one of the bars. It’s among the most fun things to do in Quito at night.

10. Browse the weekend craft market at El Ejido Park

Looking for unique handmade gifts? The best thing to do in Quito is visit El Ejido Park. This market features local art, handmade jewelry, and indigenous crafts every weekend.

• Why it’s special: It’s a gathering spot for local artists and a great place to find one-of-a-kind souvenirs.

• Best for: Shoppers and collectors.

• Top tip: Visit on the weekend for the full market experience. Bargaining is totally fine.

11. Sample local flavors at Mercado Central

Ceviche chocho is a traditional Ecuadorian food

Jump into Quito’s culinary scene with fresh juices, cevichocho, roasted pork, and more.

• Why it’s special: This busy market is where locals go for breakfast, lunch, and cheap meals.

• Best for: Foodies and cultural travelers.

• Top tip: Go hungry and try an almuerzo (set lunch). Don’t miss the fruit juice stalls.

12. Climb the towers of Basilica del Voto Nacional

Scale the gothic towers of this massive church for the most thrilling city views.

• Why it’s special: It’s the largest neo-Gothic basilica in Latin America, and you climb it via metal ladders.

• Best for: Thrill seekers and photographers.

• Top tip: Bring your courage and don’t look down!

13. Discover the boho neighborhood of Guápulo

Not many tourists know about this spot, making it one of the more secret things to do in Quito. Placed between the city and the forest, this artsy district feels like a hidden village.

• Why it’s special: The cobbled descent has galleries, cafes, and the historic Guápulo Church from the 1600s.

• Best for: Off-the-beaten-path explorers.

• Top tip: Wear comfy shoes, as it’s a steep walk down. Catch a cab back up.

14. Visit the museum of the city of Quito

Get a deeper look at Quito’s history, from pre-Columbian times to modern-day life.

• Why it’s special: Housed in a former hospital, the museum uses creative exhibits and preserved spaces to tell the city’s story.

• Best for: Museum lovers and context seekers.

• Top tip: The restored courtyards alone are worth the vis

15. Go on a chocolate tasting tour or visit a cacao museum

Cacao harvest in the rainforest of Ecuador

Ecuador is a top cacao producer, and you can taste the difference.

• Why it’s special: Learn about bean-to-bar chocolate making and sample rich, small-batch creations straight from local producers.

• Best for: Chocoholics and foodies.

• Top tip: Some museums offer walk-ins, while others need booking in advance.

Explore Quito with Exoticca

Exoticca’s expertly curated itineraries let you experience the best things to do in Quito and beyond.

Amazon and island hopping in Galapagos

Our 13-day Amazon and Island Hopping in Galapagos itinerary includes a guided Quito city tour, optional visits to the Middle of the World Monument, and free time to explore artisan quarters and museums.

Start in Quito, then journey from the Andean peaks to the Amazon and the Galápagos Islands. Explore Quito’s Old Town, take in panoramic city views, and trade the mountains for sea lions, snorkeling spots, and jungle canoe rides.

Highlights include San Cristóbal, Santa Cruz Island, Lobería Beach, and night walks in the Amazon rainforest. This trip is great for those planning things to do in Quito in March or in the holiday season.

Ultimate South American odyssey

Our Ultimate South American Odyssey tour includes four countries, 28 days, and Quito as your first stop. It’s perfect for big dreamers, long-haul explorers, and travelers who want it all.

Quito gives you a taste of South America’s cultural richness right from the start, with colonial plazas, Andean cuisine, and a UNESCO-listed historic center. Then it’s off to Rio, Buenos Aires, Machu Picchu, the Amazon, and the Galápagos.

You return to Quito twice on this itinerary, giving you even more chances to dive into local neighborhoods, sample chocolate, or grab sunset views from Panecillo. It’s ideal for anyone wanting to experience cool things to do in Quito and surrounding countries.

Ecuador 360: Cities and Santa Cruz Island

Our 15-day Ecuador 360: Cities & Santa Cruz Island itinerary kicks off in Quito before guiding you through waterfalls, volcanoes, artisan villages, and island life.

Begin with a panoramic tour of Quito, visit the equator line, and soak in the city’s mix of indigenous and colonial history. Continue through Baños, Cuenca, and finally Santa Cruz Island in the Galápagos.

This route is a smart pick if you’re checking off things to do in Quito in December. Optional add-ons include a traditional fire ritual in Guamote or ceviche-making in Santa Cruz, just in case you want to go even deeper.

Travel tips for visiting Quito

Before you hop into all the cool things to do in Quito, it helps to know a few key tips that can make your visit smoother, safer, and more rewarding.

• Take it easy the first day: Quito sits at around 9,350 feet (2,850 meters), so the altitude can hit you if you’re not used to it. Drink lots of water, skip heavy meals and alcohol at first, and plan light activities on arrival day.

• Know when to go: The best times to visit are during the dry season: June to September. In wetter months like March or October, Quito’s weather is unpredictable. Bring layers if you’re planning outdoor things beyond the city.

• Cash is king: Ecuador uses the U.S. dollar. Most hotels and restaurants accept cards, but small shops and markets in Quito’s Old Town often prefer cash. ATMs are available in the city, but always withdraw from machines inside banks when possible.

• Stay street-smart: Quito is safe in tourist areas, but petty theft can happen. Keep valuables out of sight, avoid walking alone at night, and stick to well-lit areas. Take official taxis (yellow with orange license plates) or ride-share apps after dark.

• Getting around: Use the Trolebus for affordable transport along major routes, or hop in a metered taxi for convenience. The TelefériQo cable car is not just a scenic ride, it’s also a great way to access the trails above the city.

• Respect local customs: People in Quito tend to dress more conservatively, especially in religious sites. If visiting churches, cover your shoulders and knees. Tipping around 10% is customary in restaurants.

These travel tips will help you make the most of your visit and help you discover even more things to do in Ecuador beyond the city limits.

FAQs

Below are the answers to some of the most common questions about visiting Quito.

Is Quito safe for tourists?

Yes, especially in popular tourist areas. Use common sense: avoid flashing valuables, take official taxis at night, and watch your belongings in crowded places.

How many days do I need to explore Quito?

You can see the highlights in 1–2 full days, but 3–4 days gives you time to explore at a relaxed pace, take day trips, and adjust to the altitude.

What is the altitude of Quito and how do I handle it?

Quito sits at around 9,350 feet (2,850 meters). To adjust, stay hydrated, avoid alcohol on your first day, and don’t overexert yourself. Most people acclimate within 24–48 hours.

Can I visit the Equator in Quito?

Yes. Visiting Mitad del Mundo is one of the most iconic things to do in Quito. It marks the equator line and includes a fun museum, shops, and photo ops.