Best Things to Do in Quito, Ecuador

Quito: Ecuador’s City in the Sky

With all the anticipation of the Galapagos Islands, it can be tempting to skip Quito and head straight into your island adventure. But Ecuador’s capital is well worth slowing down for. Perched high in the Andes, this UNESCO World Heritage city blends centuries of history with an ever-evolving creative spirit—making it one of South America’s most fascinating capitals to explore.

A New Perspective on the Old Town

Quito’s historic center (centro historico) is the largest and best-preserved in the Americas. On Plaza Grande, indigenous women in traditional dress sell fresh produce beneath colonial balconies. The church of La Compañía dazzles with its gold-leaf interior, and the quarter’s cobbled streets hum with life.

This is a city of a thousand tales. Café Dios No Muere, a creaking old eatery, is rumored to have once hidden the body of a murdered president. At the Mercado de San Francisco, traditional healers still perform spiritual cleansings with sacred herbs. And in a city of delightful surprises, you can even have your hair cut in a booth beneath the presidential palace.

For a view like no other, climb to the rooftop of the San Francisco Monastery, a privilege usually reserved for guests of the nearby Hotel Casa Gangotena. From here, the terracotta rooftops stretch toward the rolling Andes, glowing in the late afternoon light.

Quito’s Evolving Culinary Scene

Quito’s dining scene continues to thrive, driven by local chefs who are redefining Ecuadorian cuisine.

At Shibumi, Japanese techniques meet Ecuadorian ingredients, with dishes such as Galapagos halibut tataki and octopus kaburimaki.

Laboratorio Diseño y Gastronomía offers an experimental space where each new resident chef transforms the menu and concept entirely.

Meanwhile, La Purísima serves nostalgic Ecuadorian recipes with bold, modern flair.

Together, these restaurants—and many others across the city—reflect Quito’s growing reputation as a center of culinary innovation in Latin America.

Beyond the City

Although Quito’s Old Town is a masterpiece in itself, the surrounding landscapes are equally captivating. Snow-capped volcanoes like Cotopaxi, Pichincha, and Cayambe frame the horizon, tempting hikers and climbers alike. Some peaks can be scaled in a morning; others require skill and endurance, but all reward with spectacular views.

Two hours north lies Otavalo, home to one of the Andes’ most famous indigenous markets, where vivid textiles and crafts reflect centuries of cultural tradition.

Staying Safe

Like any major city, Quito has areas where extra care is needed, particularly in crowded public spaces. Most incidents occur on public transport or in busy markets, places our guests are unlikely to visit. Travelling with trusted guides and staying at reputable hotels greatly reduces any risk. Natural events such as tremors or health warnings are rare and seldom impact visitors. With sensible precautions, Quito is a welcoming and rewarding city to explore.

More Than a Gateway

Quito is often described as a gateway to the Galapagos, the Amazon, and Ecuador’s volcanoes. But it’s much more than a stopover. It’s a living mosaic of history, art, and everyday life, a city where the past and present coexist in brilliant color. Whether you linger for a day or a week, Quito offers a memorable glimpse into the heart of Ecuador.

Take A Tour of Quito

Enhance your trip to the Galapagos with our curated Quito Safari extension.