Quito Old Town Tour: History, Market Visit & Ice Cream Tasting

Quito , Ecuador

Quito Old Town Tour: History, Market Visit & Ice Cream Tasting

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(89 reviews)

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About this experience

Learn the legends of Quito on this tour through the city’s historic centre. Visit the market where every kiosk tells a story, and uncover local culture and customs as you explore the heart of Old Town. See where the Spanish city was born and revolutions sparked. Take a break with a hands-on sweet treat – making your own ice cream using ingredients you’ll only find in South America.

Available options

Small Group Tour

Private Tour

What's included

Explore Quito’s UNESCO-listed Old Town and colonial landmarks

Admire La Compañía de Jesús church and its gold-covered interior

Make Ecuadorian ice cream with native ingredients

Visit Quito’s Central Market and learn about local traditions

Join a small-group walking tour (max 12 guests) led by a local Quito guide

End at La Ronda, Quito’s iconic cultural street

Detailed itinerary

Meet your friendly guide and head to Quito’s Central Market—a local favorite. Each stall has a story, from medicinal plants to exotic fruits, and even remedies for love!

Stop 2 Pass by

See Independence Plaza, where the Spanish city of Quito was born in the 16th century and many Ecuadorian revolutions started.

Take in the Metropolitan Cathedral and the Government Palace and learn the roles they’ve played in Ecuador’s rich history.

Stop 4 Pass by

Next, see the Jesuit church of La Compañía de Jesús, one of the jewels of South America.

You’ll have the option to climb the towers of San Francisco Church, one of the oldest churches in the city, to reach a lookout that’s worth all the stairs.

Finally, your tour ends at the enchanting La Ronda, a street that has become one of the city’s most popular tourist attractions

What's not included

Gratuities

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.7

47 reviews

5★

4★

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1★

Tripadvisor 4.7

42 reviews

5★

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1★

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Can kids join the tour? Yep! Kids aged 6 and up are welcome, as long as they're with an adult.

What should I wear for the tour? We recommend comfy clothes, walking shoes, a sweater or light jacket, sunglasses, and a hat—Quito’s weather can change quickly!

Meeting point

Entrance of the Teatro Sucre (Plaza del Teatro), Old Town Quito.
View on Google Maps: https://goo.gl/maps/zNjR21pBqSaEj24g8

Important notes

Dress Code
We suggest wearing comfortable clothing, a sweater or light jacket, comfortable walking shoes, sunglasses and a hat.

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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.