Half-Day Quito City Tour visiting Historical Center and Panecillo

Quito , Ecuador

Half-Day Quito City Tour visiting Historical Center and Panecillo

Active

(2 reviews)

3h - 4h

All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

• Visit the idyllic Quito Colonia City (Independence Plaza, The Cathedra, Plaza San Francisco).
• Step into South America’s best example of Spanish Baroque architecture church, La Compañia De Jesus
• Catch a great 360 sight of Quito from the Virgen del Panecillo viewpoint (depends on time).
• Get acquainted with Quito’s culinary delicacies during this classic-style Quito City Tour

Available options

4 or+ Travelers - DepartsDaily

Price of the tour per person when there are 4 or more Travelers in the party. Tour could be private if there are no more reservations for this date. Groups 3 + pax will be private if requested.<br/>Pickup included

2 -3 Travelers - Departs Daily

2-3 Travelers - Departs Daily: Price of the tour per person when there are 3 Travelers in the party. This tour could be private if there are no more reservations for the same excursion. Groups 3 + pax will be private if requested.<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Bilingual Guide during the tour

Pick up and Drop off at your hotel in Quito (hotels within the urban perimeter ONLY)

Detailed itinerary

An early pick up form your hotel (9h00 approximately) to take a ride to a tour in the UNESCO World Patrimony Old Town Quito, step into the beautiful colonial churches and submerge into its history and classic art. A rich colonial legacy with European and pre-Spanish roots fill the old city. You will start by visiting San Francisco Square and Church, the Independence Square and the main Cathedral, Presidential Palace Building, and one of the best examples of the baroque movement in South America, the iconic La Compañía de Jesus church. Most of the religious buildings here date 500 years old – it will dazzle your senses. The bizarre mixture of two worldviews (Incan religion and European Catholicism) is beautifly reflected on the Colonial City.

Afterwards, enjoy an amazing 360- degree view from Panecillo Hill before riding back to your hotel of stay in Quito.
* The activities and timing will depend on your preferences *

What's not included

Meals

Hotel in Quito

Entrances Fee to some churches in the Historical Center

Cost of extra activities not listed

Tips & Gratuities (optional)

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

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1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Quito hosts a very variable climate. We highly recommended that travelers take a small back pack to carry all needed. Wear a light waterproof jacket (dress in layers), warm clothes, walking shoes, and sun block for sunny days.

Money: We recommend you bring small bills to pay for the entrances and tips (USD).

Important notes

Local supplier telephone number: 845 345 3204

Emergency ONLY phone number (local): (593) 992747880

Note: This day tour is subject to availability and last minute changes due to forces beyond our control (Force Majeure). In this case, no refunds are possible. This is not a private tour - travelers will share the services with a group of fellow travelers (max of 12 travelers per group)

NOTE (IMPORTANT): The following info from each traveler is a compulsory requirement in order to be included in the supplier’s insurance. Please provide this information as soon as possible (before travel date).

Names (as they appear on the passport):

Passport Number:

Date of Birth:

Emergency Phone Number:
* If travelers fail to provide this information two days prior to date of travel, the health insurance cannot NOT be applied.

NOTE (travel insurance age restriction): Travel insurance for this tour is applicable to travelers up to 69 years old ONLY. We encourage travelers of more the 69 years to hire private travel insurance, as unfortunately, they will not be covered with ours.

INCLUDES:
• Bilingual Professional Guide
• Transportation durting the tour
• Pick up / Drop off from hotel

NOT INCLUDED
• Other Meals
• Cost of entrances to some churches in the Historial Center
• Cost of extra activities
• Tips & gratuities (optional)

About Quito

Quito, the capital of Ecuador, is a vibrant city nestled in the Andean highlands. It is renowned for its well-preserved colonial architecture, rich cultural heritage, and stunning views of the surrounding volcanoes. The city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers a unique blend of historical charm and modern urban life.

Top Attractions

Historic Center of Quito

The Historic Center of Quito is a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring well-preserved colonial architecture, churches, and plazas.

Historical Half to full day Free to visit the plazas and streets; entry fees for churches and museums

TelefériQo

A cable car that takes visitors to the top of Cruz Loma for breathtaking views of Quito and the surrounding volcanoes.

Adventure 1-2 hours Moderate

Mitad del Mundo

A monument marking the equator, where you can stand in both the northern and southern hemispheres at once.

Historical Half day Moderate

Pululahua Geobotanical Reserve

A unique crater reserve with hiking trails, scenic viewpoints, and a chance to see local flora and fauna.

Nature Half to full day Budget

Basílica del Voto Nacional

One of the largest neo-Gothic basilicas in South America, offering stunning architecture and panoramic views from its towers.

Religious 1-2 hours Budget

Capilla del Hombre

A museum dedicated to the works of Ecuadorian artist Oswaldo Guayasamín, featuring his paintings and sculptures.

Cultural 1-2 hours Moderate

Must-Try Local Dishes

Llocro de Papa

A hearty potato soup with cheese, avocado, and sometimes meat.

Dinner Vegetarian options available

Cuy Asado

Roasted guinea pig, a traditional Andean dish.

Dinner Contains meat

Encebollado

A fish soup with yuca, onions, and tomatoes, often served with pickled onions.

Lunch Contains fish

Empanadas de Viento

Fried empanadas filled with cheese and sometimes meat, dusted with sugar.

Snack Vegetarian options available

Popular Activities

Hiking in Cotopaxi National Park Zip-lining in Mindo Cloud Forest Paragliding over Quito Soaking in Papallacta Hot Springs Visiting La Ronda Street for live music and performances Exploring the Historic Center at a leisurely pace Visiting museums and cultural attractions in the Historic Center Exploring local markets and shopping areas

Best Time to Visit

June to September

This is the dry season with clear skies and pleasant weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

12°C to 20°C (54°F to 68°F) 54°F to 68°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Spanish
Widely spoken: English (in tourist areas)
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

GMT-5

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Quito is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur. Be cautious of pickpocketing, scams, and unsafe taxis. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit or deserted areas.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
• Use official taxis or app-based services for safer transportation.
• Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit or deserted areas.

Getting there

By air

Mariscal Sucre International Airport • 18 km (11 miles) from city center

By bus

Quito Bus Terminal (Ofelia)

Getting around

Public transport

Quito has a well-developed bus system, including the Trolebús and Ecovía, which are affordable and efficient.

Taxis

Available • Apps: InDriver, TaxiApp

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Historic Center (Centro Histórico) La Floresta González Suárez El Panecillo

Day trips

Cotopaxi National Park

50 km (31 miles) south of Quito • Full day

A stunning national park featuring the Cotopaxi volcano, hiking trails, and wildlife.

Mindo Cloud Forest

80 km (50 miles) northwest of Quito • Full day

A lush cloud forest with hiking trails, waterfalls, and a variety of wildlife.

Papallacta Hot Springs

65 km (40 miles) northeast of Quito • Half to full day

Natural hot springs nestled in the Andes, offering a relaxing and rejuvenating experience.

Festivals

Fiestas de Quito • Early December Inti Raymi • June 21-24 Semana Santa • March or April (dates vary)

Pro tips

Visit the Historic Center early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Try local street food and snacks, such as empanadas, hornado, and choclo con queso.
Use the Metrocable for a unique and scenic way to reach the historic center and enjoy panoramic views of the city.
Be cautious of altitude sickness, as Quito's high elevation can cause headaches, dizziness, and shortness of breath. Drink plenty of water, take it easy, and allow time to acclimate.
Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals.