Quito City Tour Historic Sites and Culture

Quito , Ecuador

Quito City Tour Historic Sites and Culture

Active

(2 reviews)

9h - 16h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This tour offers a unique experience of Quito, blending rich history, impressive architecture, and panoramic views. Visit the Basilica of the National Vow for a 360° view of the city and nearby volcanoes, explore Plaza Grande’s historic monuments, and admire the gold-leaf decorated Compañía de Jesús church. You’ll also visit Plaza de San Francisco, see the Virgin of Quito sculpture, and enjoy Ecuadorian chocolate in Yumbos. At Loma del Panecillo, take in the view with the largest statue in Ecuador, and finish with a visit to the Intiñan Museum at the Middle of the World. A perfect mix of history, culture, and local flavors in one day.

Available options

Quito City Tour Historic Sites and Culture

What's included

Private transportation

Lunch

Certified Professional Tour Guide

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Pick up from your hotel and transfer to the Basilica of the National Vow. Here you can admire a neo-Gothic building and ascend its towers to enjoy a 360° panoramic view of Quito, highlighting the modern and old cities, the Pichincha Volcano, and, weather permitting, the Cotopaxi, Antisana, and Cayambe volcanoes.

Stop 2

A walking tour of Plaza Grande, where you can admire important buildings such as the Government Palace, the Independence Monument, the façade of Quito's Primate Cathedral, and the "El Sagrario" church, among others. We will also visit the "Compañía de Jesús" church, known for its gold-leafed interior.

Stop 3

Visit the Plaza and Church of San Francisco, with a tour of the church's interior to see the sculpture of the Virgin of Quito, created by Bernardo de Legarda, and the impressive Baroque decoration. Visit a chocolate shop in the area, called Yumbos, where you can taste different flavors and intensities of cocoa.

Stop 4

Ascent to Loma del Panecillo, home to the Virgin of Quito, the largest religious statue in Ecuador, with a spectacular view of Quito's old town and the Pichincha Volcano.

Stop 5

Visit the Middle of the World, where we will explore the Intiñan Museum, located at latitude 0°0'0", and learn about the history of the equator, with demonstrations on the Coriolis effect and the culture of the Andean and Amazonian regions.

Return to the hotel to conclude the tour. Dinner and overnight stay not included.

What's not included

Breakfast - Tips

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Meeting point

Pickup service is available at hotels located in Quito's Historic Center near Ejido Park. Pickup will take place at the hotel reception.

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.