Why Go to Quito
YOUR DESTINATION AT A GLANCE
Quito is a colonial treasure high in the Andes. Ecuador's capital sits at more than 9,000 feet on a plateau ringed by volcanoes, and its historic center was one of the first places in the world named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It's often called the Reliquary of Art in the Americas for its stunning churches and art.
Wander the cobblestone streets and plazas of the Old Town, among the best-preserved in Latin America. Step inside La Compania de Jesus, whose interior glitters with gold leaf, and climb the towers of the Gothic Basilica del Voto Nacional for views over the city. Ride the TelefériQo cable car up the slopes of Pichincha Volcano for sweeping vistas, and visit Mitad del Mundo, where you can stand on the equator with a foot in each hemisphere. Browse the colorful indigenous market in nearby Otavalo, and explore Cotopaxi National Park, home to one of the world's highest active volcanoes.
Nonstop flights reach Quito from Miami, Houston and other U.S. cities. Quito is also the main gateway to the Galapagos and the Amazon. Take it easy the first day as you adjust to the altitude. I'll plan your stay and connect Quito with the Galapagos.
BEST FOR
History lovers, nature lovers, Galápagos travelers and culture seekers
BEST MONTHS
June to September
EXPLORE
- Old Town: The UNESCO historic center with churches and plazas.
- La Floresta: A creative neighborhood with cafés and galleries.
- La Mariscal: Bars, restaurants and nightlife.
- La Carolina: Modern hotels, parks and shopping.
SIX18 SIGNATURE DESTINATION GUIDE
Quito
South America › Andean Heights › Ecuador › Pichincha
A UNESCO old town on the equator, ringed by volcanoes and cloud forests.
Historical & Heritage
Mountains
Ancient
Architecture
SIX18 INSIDER TIP
Ride the TelefériQo early in the morning; clouds often roll in by midday and hide the volcano views.
Experiences Worth Exploring
THINGS TO DO
Join a walking tour to learn the stories behind the buildings.
Old Town Quito
Wander the colonial historic center, with its plazas, churches and lively streets.
Visit early to enjoy it before the crowds.
La Compañía Church
A breathtaking Jesuit church with an interior covered in gold leaf.
Visit the nearby Intiñan Museum for fun equator experiments.
Mitad del Mundo
A monument marking the equator, with museums and exhibits about Ecuador's geography and culture.
Bring a jacket; it's cold at the top.
TelefériQo
A cable car that climbs the slopes of Pichincha Volcano for panoramic views of the city and surrounding volcanoes.
Climb the towers for amazing views.
Basílica del Voto Nacional
A Gothic basilica with gargoyles shaped like Ecuadorian animals and towers you can climb.
A luxurious boutique hotel in a restored mansion overlooking Plaza San Francisco.
Casa Gangotena
Old Town
Hotel Tags
An intimate luxury hotel with personalized service and a celebrated restaurant.
Illa Experience Hotel
Old Town
Hotel Tags
A colonial-style hotel with a charming courtyard in the heart of the historic center.
Hotel Patio Andaluz
Old Town
Hotel Tags
A modern hotel with a spa and pool, close to parks and shopping.
JW Marriott Hotel Quito
La Carolina
Hotel Tags
A large, comfortable hotel near the city's restaurants and nightlife.
Hilton Colón Quito
La Mariscal
Hotel Tags
Curated Accommodations
WHERE TO STAY
November in Quito
High 66°F · Low 49°F · Rain 4.2 in
Day of the Dead is celebrated with colada morada and guaguas de pan.
The best time to visit Quito is June through September, during the dry season, when days are sunny and clear. Quito has spring-like weather year-round, with cool mornings and evenings. The rest of the year brings more frequent afternoon rain.
Best Times to Visit Quito
WHEN TO GO
Where to Dine
DINING
Quito's food scene blends Andean traditions with modern Ecuadorian cuisine.
- Traditional dishes: Try locro de papa, a creamy potato soup with cheese and avocado.
- Street food: Enjoy empanadas de viento and fresh tropical juices.
- Must-try: Locro de papa, fanesca during Easter, hornado (roast pork) and Ecuadorian chocolate.
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Walking
The old town is best explored on foot during the day.
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Tours
Day trips to Mindo, Cotopaxi and Otavalo are easiest with a tour or private driver.
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Buses
City buses and the Trolebús cover many routes, but can be crowded.
03
Taxis & Rideshares
Use registered taxis or rideshare apps, especially at night.
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Quito Metro
Quito's modern metro line connects the north and south of the city, with stations near the old town.
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Flying In
Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO) is about 45 to 60 minutes from the city center, with nonstop flights from several U.S. cities.
Most travelers fly into Mariscal Sucre International and take a taxi into the city. Once you're here, the metro, taxis and rideshares make it easy to get around, and day trips are easiest with a guide or driver.
Getting Around Quito