Quito Walking Tour Explore the Historic Center of Ecuador

The Basilica del Voto Nacional is one of the largest neo-Gothic churches in Latin America and a true architectural icon of Quito. Inspired by the Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris, its façade is adorned with unique gargoyles shaped like native Ecuadorian animals such as iguanas, turtles, and condors.

One of the highlights of visiting the basilica is climbing its main towers, which offer some of the best panoramic views of Quito’s Historic Center and the surrounding cityscape. The ascent includes internal bridges, steep stairs, and a thrilling experience for those who don’t mind heights.

From the top, you can admire colonial rooftops, nearby churches, and even distant volcanoes like Pichincha. It’s the perfect spot for breathtaking photos and to truly appreciate the scale and detail of this architectural masterpiece.

The Archbishop’s Palace (Palacio Arzobispal) is one of the most emblematic colonial buildings in Quito’s Historic Center. Located on the Plaza Grande, right across from the Presidential Palace, it has been the residence of the archbishops of Quito since the 16th century.

This elegant two-story structure features traditional Spanish colonial architecture, with whitewashed walls, arched corridors, and a beautiful interior courtyard. Over time, the palace has been carefully restored and now blends religious significance with cultural and commercial use.

Today, visitors can explore its charming inner patios, enjoy cafés, artisan shops, and galleries, and admire the historical architecture that reflects centuries of Quito’s ecclesiastical and civic life. It’s a peaceful and photogenic stop in the heart of the city.

Independence Square, also known as Plaza Grande, is the historic and political heart of Quito. Surrounded by some of the city’s most important buildings—including the Presidential Palace (Carondelet), the Cathedral of Quito, the Archbishop’s Palace, and the City Hall—this plaza has been a central gathering place since colonial times.

At the center stands the Independence Monument, commemorating Ecuador’s heroes of the 1809 revolution against Spanish rule. The square is beautifully landscaped with palm trees, gardens, fountains, and benches, offering a peaceful space where locals and visitors gather to relax, chat, and enjoy street musicians or cultural events.

The Church of the Society of Jesus, known locally as La Compañía, is one of the most iconic and ornate churches in Quito. Its foundation dates back to 1605, when the Jesuits began building what would become one of the greatest architectural masterpieces in Latin America.

Construction of the church took over 160 years, finally completed in 1765. It was designed in the Baroque style, with influences from the Mudéjar and Churrigueresque styles, blending European aesthetics with indigenous artistry. The church’s interior is famously covered in gold leaf, intricate wood carvings, and dramatic altarpieces—earning it the nickname “Quito’s golden church.”

The Old Central Bank of Ecuador building is a historic landmark in Quito, showcasing early 20th-century architecture. It played a key role in the country’s financial history and now stands as a symbol of Ecuador’s economic development and heritage in the capital city.

Heladería San Agustín, founded in 1858, is a historic ice cream parlor and restaurant in Quito’s Historic Center. Famous for traditional paila ice cream and Ecuadorian dishes, it offers a nostalgic atmosphere and cultural activities like ice cream making demos and storytelling.

Yumbos Chocolate is an artisanal chocolate shop in Quito’s Historic Center, known for fine aroma cocoa and fair trade. They offer tastings, chocolate bars, hot chocolate, and unique products. A must-visit for chocolate lovers and those interested in Ecuadorian culture.