Museo de la Ciudad
Discover Quito's rich history within a beautifully preserved 16th-century hospital, featuring exhibits from pre-Inca to modern times.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed pace
Museo de la Ciudad
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed pace
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Quito's rich history within a beautifully preserved 16th-century hospital, featuring exhibits from pre-Inca to modern times.
"An excellent deep-dive into Quito's history, set within a beautiful former hospital with great city views."
Allocate Enough Time
Give yourself at least 1.5-2 hours to explore all eras, especially modern Quito.
Translate Ahead
Exhibits are in Spanish. Charge your phone for translation apps.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Quito's Historical Eras
Main exhibition halls
Journey through Quito's past, from pre-Inca times to the Spanish conquest and modern development.
Historic Hospital Architecture
Courtyards and building structure
Explore the beautiful, preserved architecture of the former hospital, which is an exhibit in itself.
Mirador with City Views
Rear mirador area
Enjoy a quiet moment with excellent southern views, including the iconic El Panecillo.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Time Your Visit Wisely
Language & Ticketing
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Allocate Enough Time
Give yourself at least 1.5-2 hours to explore all eras, especially modern Quito.
Translate Ahead
Exhibits are in Spanish. Charge your phone for translation apps.
Cash for Tickets
Tickets are cash only. Have USD ready for purchase.
Pet the Museum Cat
A sweet kitty often roams the museum and enjoys pets! :cat:
Tips
from all over the internet
Allocate Enough Time
Give yourself at least 1.5-2 hours to explore all eras, especially modern Quito.
Translate Ahead
Exhibits are in Spanish. Charge your phone for translation apps.
Cash for Tickets
Tickets are cash only. Have USD ready for purchase.
Pet the Museum Cat
A sweet kitty often roams the museum and enjoys pets! :cat:
Check for Renovations
Some rooms may be inaccessible due to ongoing renovations. :construction:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Museo de la Ciudad for its in-depth historical exhibits and the unique experience of exploring a former hospital. The preserved architecture and the tranquil mirador with city views are frequently highlighted as positives. Some note that exhibits are in Spanish and recommend allocating ample time to fully absorb the information.
"The museum offers an excellent deep-dive into Quito's history -- from pre-Inca through the time of Spanish conquest and beyond. Also, the mirador area towards the back is a very nice quiet spot with excellent views south including El Panecillo."
Tillman Erb (Zack)
"I really enjoyed my experience at this museum. It has a lot of really interesting information and exhibits. Be sure to give yourself enough time if you want to read the information. The exhibits take you through every era of Quito history. Unfortunately, I had to speed through the second half because I only gave myself 1.5 hours. I paid $8, and still it was well worth it. Oh, and there's a sweet kitty who will let you pet her.
The information is all in Spanish, so make sure your phone is charged and your Google Translate is ready before you go if you'll need translations."
Brita Dallmann
"A museum and community center housed in a former hospital. The architecture is well preserved and the spaces are organized around two internal courtyards. Admission was free when we visited. There are exhibits about the history of Quito, mainly centered on the social and political issues, and a few maps and images illustrating the growth of the city and urbanization. Many rooms are being renovated so were inaccessible during the time we visited. Worth a stop if you are in the Historic District."
Anthony Abbate
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Museo de la Ciudad is located in Quito's Historic District. You can reach it by taxi, ride-sharing services, or public buses that frequent the area. Walking is also a great option if you are staying nearby in the historic center.
Yes, several bus routes pass through or near the Historic District, making it accessible via public transport. Check local bus routes for the most convenient options. :bus:
Walking is highly recommended to soak in the atmosphere of the Historic District. Many attractions, including Museo de la Ciudad, are within walking distance of each other. :walking:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission prices can vary. While some reviews mention free entry, others state a fee of around $8 USD. It's best to confirm the current price upon arrival. Tickets are cash only.
Advance booking is generally not required for Museo de la Ciudad. Tickets can usually be purchased at the entrance. :ticket:
Opening hours can vary, but the museum is typically open during daytime hours on weekdays and weekends. It's advisable to check their official website or call ahead for the most up-to-date information. :clock1:
Information on specific discounts is not widely available. It's recommended to inquire at the ticket counter about any potential concessions for students, seniors, or other groups. :moneywithwings:
No, tickets for Museo de la Ciudad are cash only. Make sure to have sufficient USD cash on hand.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
To fully appreciate the exhibits, especially the modern Quito section, plan for at least 1.5 to 2 hours. Some visitors suggest moving faster through the initial floors to dedicate more time to later periods.
The primary language for exhibits at Museo de la Ciudad is Spanish. Visitors who need translations should ensure their mobile devices are charged for translation apps.
While not always advertised, inquire at the information desk if guided tours are available or if an English-speaking translator can be arranged.
Many visitors highlight the journey through Quito's historical eras, the preserved architecture of the old hospital, and the tranquil mirador with city views.
Yes, the museum features two internal courtyards and a mirador at the back offering excellent views of the city, including El Panecillo.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed inside Museo de la Ciudad, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific restrictions on flash photography or certain exhibits. :camerawithflash:
The internal courtyards with their historic architecture and the mirador with city views offer great photographic opportunities. The exhibits themselves can also be visually interesting. :iphone:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While exhibits are primarily in Spanish, parents can use translation apps to make the information accessible. The mirador offers a nice break with a view. Consider focusing on the visual aspects of the exhibits and the historical context of the building itself to keep younger visitors interested.
💰 Budget Travelers
This museum offers a deep dive into Quito's history and culture without a hefty price tag, making it a great value. It's a perfect addition to a day of exploring the Historic District on foot. :moneywithwings:
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Quito's History
Key Takeaway: The museum provides a layered understanding of Quito, not just its historical events but also the physical and social growth of the city. Be prepared for detailed information, and consider using translation tools if Spanish is not your primary language.
The Architecture and Ambiance
Beyond the main exhibition halls, the mirador at the rear of the museum is a particularly noteworthy spot. It provides a quiet area with excellent panoramic views to the south, including the prominent El Panecillo hill. It's an ideal place to pause, reflect, and enjoy the cityscape.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit