Quito , Ecuador

Quito Historic Center Night Tour

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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 night tour will take you through the northern part and the Historic Center of Quito in a double-decker bus, from where you can enjoy a panoramic view of the city.

Tour the modern area and the Historic Center, declared a World Heritage Site. Enjoy a guided local walking tour of colonial squares and streets, listen to Quito legends and take advantage of your free time for dinner, a coffee or a good chocolate.

The tour ends with the return to the starting point, offering a unique experience to live the city from another perspective.

Available options

Quito Historic Center Night Tour

What's included

Transportation, Bilingual Guide

Detailed itinerary

We will begin the tour by meeting on the United Nations Boulevard and then start our experience touring the city of Quito.

The bus begins its journey through Parque La Carolina, considered the green lung of Quito, surrounded by modern buildings and cultural centers that show the contrast between tradition and modernity.

We continue to La Mariscal, one of the liveliest areas of Quito, known for its nightlife, restaurants and cafes. From the bus you can observe the vibrant and cosmopolitan atmosphere of this neighborhood full of history and movement.

The bus enters the Colonial Quarter, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As we go, the cobbled streets, colonial facades and illuminated churches reveal the unique charm of historic Quito at night.

There we will stop to get off the bus and take a walking tour. We will visit the Plaza Grande, political and social heart of the city, and the Calle de las Siete Cruces, one of the most emblematic roads, full of legends and overlooking imposing colonial churches.
After the walking tour, you will have free time to enjoy your own way.

At the end of the experience, we will head back to the starting point on United Nations Boulevard.

What's not included

Any expenses not specified as included, dinner, entrances, tips

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

1 reviews

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Tripadvisor 3.0

2 reviews

5★

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Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

The guide will be waiting for the passengers on United Nations Boulevard to start the tour.

Important notes

We suggest you confirm your booking details with us before your trip, or upon arrival at your destination. Please note that departure times and locations may vary slightly.

OFFICE NUMBER: (+54 11) 3221-8400 (Monday to Sunday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.)
EMERGENCY MOBILE: (+54 911) 4991-4035 (After office hours)

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.