Basilica del Voto Nacional
A monumental neo-Gothic basilica in Quito, famous for its unfinished state and legendary prophecy, offering incredible city views from its towers.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, golden hour light
Basilica del Voto Nacional
Best Time
Fewer crowds, golden hour light

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A monumental neo-Gothic basilica in Quito, famous for its unfinished state and legendary prophecy, offering incredible city views from its towers.
"The views at the very top once you pass through the clock tower were great as well."
🎟️ Tower Ticket is Key
Prioritize the tower ticket; it includes access to the interior and the best city views.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of climbing! Comfortable footwear is essential for exploring the towers.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Neo-Gothic Architecture
Marvel at the intricate details of Latin America's largest neo-Gothic church, a stunning architectural feat.

Panoramic City Views
Ascend the towers for breathtaking 360-degree vistas of Quito, especially magical during sunset.

The Angels of the Basilica
Discover the unique sculptures of angels adorning the basilica, each with its own story.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
The Legend of the Unfinished Church
Navigating the Towers and Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Tower Ticket is Key
Prioritize the tower ticket; it includes access to the interior and the best city views.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of climbing! Comfortable footwear is essential for exploring the towers.
🌃 Consider a Night Tour
Experience the basilica and city lights from a unique perspective on a special night tour.
⚠️ Be Mindful of Heights
Some narrow stairs and open areas can feel intimidating if you're not comfortable with heights.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Tower Ticket is Key
Prioritize the tower ticket; it includes access to the interior and the best city views.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of climbing! Comfortable footwear is essential for exploring the towers.
🌃 Consider a Night Tour
Experience the basilica and city lights from a unique perspective on a special night tour.
⚠️ Be Mindful of Heights
Some narrow stairs and open areas can feel intimidating if you're not comfortable with heights.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are consistently awed by the Basilica del Voto Nacional's stunning neo-Gothic architecture and the breathtaking panoramic views from its towers. While the climb can be challenging and some find the intermediate floors with shops a bit unusual, the overall experience is highly recommended for its beauty and unique historical legend.
"Amazingly beautiful basilica! Sort of a strange layout where on floors 10-13 has shops and cafes which do provide beautiful views but is odd in a historic building. Quite a climb and towards the top is not meant for people with mobility issues, feels a bit unsafe even for younger people honestly. Cannot beat the views of the city and the church is still very beautiful and ornate."
Patrick S
"Pretty inexpensive tourist stop and has great views of the city. The inside is also grand, but the tower and touring the inside are separate fees, which is fine, but I'd just do the tower climb overall since you do get to see the inside of the church as well.
The views at the very top once you pass through the clock tower were great as well."
John Pozo
"This is the best place to see. A different cathedral from historical churches with a different architecture. I spent hours on the towers, so make sure you buy ticket for the tower. Plus, with the tower tour, you will be able to see the beautiful mosaic of this church."
Darpan Jain
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Basilica del Voto Nacional is conveniently located in Quito's historic center. You can easily walk there from many central attractions, or take a short taxi or bus ride. Many guided walking tours of the old town include a stop at the basilica.
Parking in Quito's historic center can be challenging. It's often easier to use public transport, taxis, or ride-sharing services, or to walk if you're staying nearby.
Yes, taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are readily available in Quito and can take you directly to the Basilica del Voto Nacional. This is a convenient option, especially if you're coming from further afield.
Yes, guided tours are often available, especially for the towers. Some walking tours of Quito's historic center also include the basilica. Check for specific tour operators or inquire on-site.
From UIO airport, you can pre-book transport into the city, take a taxi, or use a ride-sharing service. Once in the historic center, you can then walk or take a short ride to the basilica.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General admission to the basilica is quite inexpensive, often around $2 for locals and $4 for foreigners. However, climbing the towers incurs an additional fee, which is highly recommended.
While general admission tickets can often be purchased on-site, it's a good idea to check if advance booking is recommended, especially for special night tours or during peak season.
The tower ticket typically grants you access to climb the towers for panoramic city views and often includes a look at the interior mosaics and architecture. It's considered the best value.
Yes, there are usually separate fees for general entry and for climbing the towers. Some sources suggest focusing on the tower ticket as it provides a more comprehensive experience.
Opening hours can vary, and it's best to check the most current schedule. Special night tours are also offered on select dates.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The most rewarding part for many visitors is climbing the towers for spectacular, unobstructed views of Quito. The unique neo-Gothic architecture is also a major draw.
The upper levels and towers are not ideal for those with mobility issues due to steep stairs and narrow passages. The lower floors may be more accessible, but it's best to inquire beforehand.
A popular legend claims that the world will end the day the basilica is finally completed, adding an intriguing historical and mythical element to its ongoing construction.
Interestingly, some floors within the basilica house shops and cafes, which offer great views but can feel a bit unusual within a historic religious building.
Absolutely! The intricate architecture inside and the sweeping city views from the towers make it a photographer's paradise.
📸 📸 Photography
The top of the towers offer unparalleled panoramic shots of Quito. Don't miss capturing the intricate neo-Gothic details inside and the unique angel sculptures.
While the views are incredible, the stairs to the top can be steep and narrow, requiring careful navigation while carrying camera gear. The open areas at the top offer great vantage points.
Yes, the tower tour often provides excellent opportunities to photograph the beautiful mosaic work inside the basilica.
Late afternoon, during the golden hour, provides beautiful lighting for both the exterior and interior shots. Sunset from the towers is particularly stunning.
Generally, photography is allowed, but it's always wise to be respectful of the religious nature of the site. Tripods might be restricted in certain areas.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Enduring Legend of the Basilica
This legend has become an integral part of the basilica's identity, drawing curious visitors eager to experience a place tied to such a dramatic prophecy. While the construction continues, the basilica remains a functioning place of worship and a significant cultural landmark in Quito. The ongoing work is a testament to the dedication of those involved, carrying on a tradition that spans over a century.
Ascending to the Skies: The Tower Experience
Beyond the breathtaking vistas, the tower climb also provides an opportunity to appreciate the basilica's intricate details up close. You can get a closer look at the clock mechanisms and the stunning mosaic work that adorns the interior. Some visitors note that the shops and cafes on the intermediate floors, while offering great views, can feel a bit out of place in such a historic religious monument. However, the overall experience of reaching the top and gazing out over the 'Middle of the World' is widely considered to be worth the effort and the admission fee.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit