Metropolitan Cathedral of Quito
A 16th-century domed cathedral in Quito's historic center, offering stunning rooftop views and rich religious art.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Metropolitan Cathedral of Quito
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 16th-century domed cathedral in Quito's historic center, offering stunning rooftop views and rich religious art.
"The rooftop climb is an unexpected adventure with incredible views, well worth the small fee!"
🎯 Rooftop Adventure Awaits!
The climb to the roof is an adventure! Be prepared for narrow stairs and a tight squeeze. :athletic_shoe:
💰 Affordable Views
Entry to the church is free, but the rooftop access is a small fee ($4 USD). Worth every penny! :moneybag:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Rooftop Panoramic Views
Cathedral Rooftop
Ascend narrow stairs for breathtaking 360-degree views of Quito's historic center and colorful domes.
Intricate Neoclassical Architecture
Main Church Interior
Admire the grandeur of the 16th-century domed church, adorned with impressive religious art and historical significance.
Cardinal's Museum
Adjacent Museum
Discover the history of Quito's Cardinals and see the mausoleum of Marisol Sucre.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience
Navigating the Cathedral's Treasures
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Rooftop Adventure Awaits!
The climb to the roof is an adventure! Be prepared for narrow stairs and a tight squeeze. :athletic_shoe:
💰 Affordable Views
Entry to the church is free, but the rooftop access is a small fee ($4 USD). Worth every penny! :moneybag:
3 Days in Quito in August: what goes on a must-see itinerary?
In Quito for a week
🚶♂️ Explore the Museum
Don't miss the museum next door for a deeper dive into Quito's religious history. :museum:
📸 Capture the Domes
The exterior's distinctive green and yellow domes are a photographer's dream. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Rooftop Adventure Awaits!
The climb to the roof is an adventure! Be prepared for narrow stairs and a tight squeeze. :athletic_shoe:
💰 Affordable Views
Entry to the church is free, but the rooftop access is a small fee ($4 USD). Worth every penny! :moneybag:
🚶♂️ Explore the Museum
Don't miss the museum next door for a deeper dive into Quito's religious history. :museum:
📸 Capture the Domes
The exterior's distinctive green and yellow domes are a photographer's dream. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Metropolitan Cathedral for its historical significance, impressive religious art, and the unique, adventurous climb to the rooftop offering spectacular city views. While the main church is free, the small fee for rooftop access is considered excellent value. Some find the ascent challenging due to narrow stairs and tight passages.
"This is one of the most historically significant churches in Quito with important historical figures buried in it. Although I think the views from the Gothic church and San Francisco are much better, so you can skip climbing up, but it is just 1 usd extra, so might as well make it."
Darpan Jain
"So much history! There's the church and a museum with a history of all Cardinals of Quito. Marisol Sucre's body was brought here and a mausoleum created. The best part was the views of the historic centre and of Quito from the rooftop. USD $4 entrance ticket."
Jemy Joseph
"Nice place.
The outside of the church is pretty dangerous all day long.
Be extra careful."
Mansour Mansouri
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Metropolitan Cathedral is located in the heart of Quito's historic center, easily accessible by foot from most central hotels. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also readily available. If you're exploring the historic center, it's a must-see on your itinerary.
Yes, Quito's public bus system serves the historic center. You can take a bus that stops near Plaza Grande, where the cathedral is located. Check local bus routes for the most convenient options.
Walking is the best way to experience Quito's historic center. Wear comfortable shoes and take your time to soak in the atmosphere. Many attractions, including the cathedral, are within walking distance of each other.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the main church of the Metropolitan Cathedral is free. However, there is a fee of approximately $4 USD to access the rooftop for panoramic views and to visit the museum.
The cathedral is generally open daily, but hours can vary. It's best to check the official website or inquire locally for the most up-to-date opening times, especially for the museum and rooftop access.
For general entry to the church, advance booking is not usually required. However, if you plan to visit during peak tourist seasons or for specific guided tours, it might be advisable to check for any booking recommendations.
As a place of worship, modest dress is recommended. Shoulders and knees should be covered. While not strictly enforced for all areas, it's respectful to dress appropriately.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted inside the Metropolitan Cathedral for personal use. However, flash photography might be restricted to protect the artwork and maintain the solemn atmosphere. Always be mindful of others and any posted signs.
The rooftop offers incredible panoramic shots of the city and surrounding domes. The exterior, with its distinctive green and yellow domes, is also a prime photography subject. Inside, focus on the grand architecture and religious art.
There is no separate fee for personal photography inside the church. However, the fee to access the rooftop, which provides some of the best photo opportunities, is around $4 USD.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Inside, you'll find impressive religious art, historical artifacts, and the tomb of Marisol Sucre. The main attraction for many is the unique and adventurous climb to the rooftop for stunning city views.
The climb is an adventure! It involves narrow, winding staircases and a tight squeeze through an opening. It's not for the claustrophobic or those with mobility issues, but the views are spectacular.
The main floor of the cathedral is accessible. However, the climb to the rooftop involves very narrow and winding stairs, and a tight passage, making it unsuitable for individuals with significant mobility challenges.
The cathedral is the resting place for several important historical figures of Quito, including former Cardinals and the mausoleum of Marisol Sucre.
For Different Travelers
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👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Adventurous Ascent to the Rooftop
This unique access method adds an element of thrill and exclusivity to the visit. It's a stark contrast to the grand architecture of the cathedral itself, offering a more intimate and challenging perspective. The guides often beckon visitors to climb even further into one of the colorful domes, providing an even more elevated vantage point.
Architectural Significance and Artistic Treasures
Beyond the main church, the adjacent museum offers a deeper understanding of the cathedral's history and its role in the region. It houses information about the Cardinals of Quito and features the mausoleum of Marisol Sucre, adding a layer of historical narrative to the visit.
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