Quito Historic Center
A UNESCO World Heritage site, Quito's historic center captivates with its well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture and vibrant plazas.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, ideal for photos
Quito Historic Center
Best Time
Fewer crowds, ideal for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A UNESCO World Heritage site, Quito's historic center captivates with its well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture and vibrant plazas.
"The entire city of Quito was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site city in 1978."
🚶♀️ Walk, Don't Run
Acclimatize to the altitude! Take it slow on your first day to avoid sickness.
💰 Cash is King
Many smaller shops and eateries prefer cash. Have small denominations handy for convenience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Plaza de la Independencia
Heart of the Historic Center
The vibrant main square, surrounded by stunning colonial architecture and the Presidential Palace. A perfect spot to people-watch.
La Compañía de Jesús Church
Calle García Moreno
Marvel at the breathtaking gold-leaf interior of this Baroque masterpiece, often called the 'Church of Gold'.
Basilica del Voto Nacional
Centro Histórico
An imposing Neo-Gothic basilica with unique gargoyles shaped like Ecuadorian fauna. Climb its towers for panoramic city views.
Calle La Ronda
Historic Center
A charming, narrow street brimming with artisan shops, traditional restaurants, and lively nightlife.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Altitude
Daylight Exploration is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Walk, Don't Run
Acclimatize to the altitude! Take it slow on your first day to avoid sickness.
💰 Cash is King
Many smaller shops and eateries prefer cash. Have small denominations handy for convenience.
⛪️ Church Hopping
Explore the numerous historic churches, many with stunning interiors. Consider a guided tour for deeper insights.
📸 Capture the Details
The architecture is incredibly detailed. Look up, down, and all around for unique photo opportunities.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walk, Don't Run
Acclimatize to the altitude! Take it slow on your first day to avoid sickness.
💰 Cash is King
Many smaller shops and eateries prefer cash. Have small denominations handy for convenience.
⛪️ Church Hopping
Explore the numerous historic churches, many with stunning interiors. Consider a guided tour for deeper insights.
📸 Capture the Details
The architecture is incredibly detailed. Look up, down, and all around for unique photo opportunities.
⬆️ Views from Above
Climb the towers of the Basilica del Voto Nacional for incredible panoramic views of the historic center.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Quito Historic Center for its stunning colonial architecture, rich history, and vibrant atmosphere. Many highlight the beauty of the churches, especially La Compañía, and the panoramic views from the Basilica. While generally safe during the day, some advise caution at night. The altitude can be a factor for some.
"Our local tour guide was excellent! She kept us informed and entertained on our bus and walking day tour around Quito. We learned that the entire city of Quito was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site city in 1978. It was selected for its well-preserved clusters of churches, homes, businesses and other historical buildings.Amazingly, most structures survived damage from a major 1917 earthquake. The city is noted for its narrow streets and mix of Spanish, Baroque and Moorish architecture. The Center has many religious and historic attractions to explore. Sections of Old Town are open only to pedestrian traffic, and we saw steady crowds of locals and school children enjoying a stroll through the piazzas on a weekday."
Barb Hauck-Mah (barbhmphilly)
"Beautiful place for tourists to visit. People can do a tour through the 7 church's straight the Garcia Moreno street. There are several restaurants, coffee shops, etc."
Omar Carvajal
"Great place to walk and explore if you like arquitecture and religious art.
Visit only during day light, currently not recommended to visit by night.
Beautiful plazas, souvenir stores, restaurants and coffee shops"
Roberto Alonso
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The historic center is easily accessible by taxi or ride-sharing apps from most parts of Quito. Public buses also serve the area, though they can be crowded. Many visitors find taxis convenient for direct access to the main plazas.
While public buses are an option, be mindful of your belongings due to pickpocketing risks, especially during peak hours. Taxis and ride-sharing services are generally considered safer and more convenient for tourists.
Yes, walking is the best way to explore the historic center. Many streets are pedestrian-only, allowing you to fully appreciate the architecture and atmosphere. Just remember to take it easy due to the altitude.
The most convenient options from Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO) are official airport taxis or pre-booked shuttles. Ride-sharing apps are also available but may have designated pick-up zones. The journey takes about 45-60 minutes depending on traffic.
Absolutely! Many excellent guided tours, both walking and bus tours, are available. They offer valuable historical context and can help you navigate the area safely and efficiently.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The historic center itself is a public area and free to enter. However, individual attractions like churches (e.g., La Compañía), museums, and the Basilica del Voto Nacional often have admission fees.
Opening hours vary by attraction. Churches are typically open during daylight hours, with some closing for a midday break. Museums usually have standard daytime hours. It's best to check the specific hours for each site you plan to visit.
Yes, many of the plazas like Plaza de la Independencia are free to explore. Walking through the streets and admiring the exterior architecture of buildings is also free.
For some major attractions, purchasing tickets online in advance might be possible, especially during peak tourist seasons. However, for most churches and smaller sites, you can buy tickets on-site.
While there isn't one single comprehensive pass, some tour operators offer packages that include entry to multiple attractions. It's worth researching if a combined ticket or tour aligns with your itinerary.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Don't miss Plaza de la Independencia, La Compañía de Jesús Church (the 'Church of Gold'), the Basilica del Voto Nacional, and the charming Calle La Ronda. The entire area is a UNESCO World Heritage site worth exploring.
Yes, it's very walkable, and walking is the best way to experience its charm. Be prepared for some inclines and cobblestone streets. Remember to pace yourself due to the altitude.
You'll find a variety of Ecuadorian cuisine, from traditional dishes like locro de papa (potato soup) to cuy (guinea pig) for the adventurous. There are also many cafes and restaurants offering international options.
Absolutely! The colonial architecture, colorful buildings, plazas, and churches offer endless photo opportunities. The views from the Basilica's towers are particularly spectacular.
Dress in layers as the weather can change. Comfortable walking shoes are essential due to cobblestone streets. Modest attire is recommended when visiting churches.
📸 📸 Photography
Iconic spots include Plaza de la Independencia, the intricate facade of La Compañía de Jesús, and the panoramic views from the Basilica del Voto Nacional. Don't forget to capture the details of balconies and doorways.
Photography policies vary. In some churches, like La Compañía, photography might be restricted or incur a small fee. Always look for signage or ask permission before taking pictures inside religious buildings.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer beautiful light. However, the historic center is also stunning on a clear day, and the illuminated streets at night can be magical, though safety precautions are advised.
Look for the intricate carvings, colorful tiles, wrought-iron balconies, and the blend of Spanish colonial, Baroque, and Moorish influences. The gargoyles on the Basilica are also unique subjects.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm equivalent) is useful for capturing both wide architectural shots and details. A wide-angle lens is great for the plazas and interiors. A small tripod can be helpful for low-light shots, but be mindful of crowds.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider a guided tour that is family-friendly, as guides can often make history come alive for younger audiences. While some churches might be less engaging for very young children, the sheer scale and beauty of places like La Compañía can still be awe-inspiring. Ensure you have plenty of snacks and water, and be mindful of the altitude, taking frequent breaks.
💰 Budget Travelers
Opt for local eateries (known as huecas) for affordable and authentic Ecuadorian meals. Look for almuerzos (set lunches) which are typically very reasonably priced. Public buses are the cheapest way to get around, though taxis are still relatively inexpensive compared to other major cities. Walking is your best friend for saving money and experiencing the city up close.
❤️ Couples
Consider a sunset visit to the Basilica del Voto Nacional for breathtaking panoramic views of the city, offering a perfect backdrop for memorable photos together. Many of the historic churches also provide a serene and beautiful atmosphere for quiet contemplation and shared moments.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Quito's Altitude
When exploring the Quito colonial center, be mindful of your pace. Short walks between attractions are fine, but avoid rushing. If you feel unwell, find a quiet spot to rest. The altitude also means the sun's rays are more intense, so wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses even on cloudy days. The air is thinner, so you might find yourself breathing more heavily than usual, which is perfectly normal.
For those planning to visit higher elevations like Cotopaxi National Park after exploring Quito, acclimatizing properly in the city is even more important. Listen to your body and don't push yourself too hard. The stunning views and rich history of the historic Quito are well worth the adjustment period.
A Glimpse into Quito's Colonial Past
Key architectural styles you'll encounter include Baroque, Neoclassical, and Moorish. La Compañía de Jesús church is a prime example of Baroque splendor, with its interior almost entirely covered in gold leaf. The Basilica del Voto Nacional, a striking Neo-Gothic structure, offers a different architectural perspective and impressive city views. Wandering through streets like Calle La Ronda, you'll discover charming colonial houses, many now housing artisan shops and cafes.
Exploring the historical center of Quito is like stepping back in time. The narrow cobblestone streets, ornate facades, and grand plazas invite you to imagine life centuries ago. It's a living museum where history is not just observed but felt.
Photography Tips for the Historic Center
When photographing churches like La Compañía, be aware of their photography policies. Some may charge a fee or have restrictions on flash photography to protect the delicate interiors. The Basilica del Voto Nacional offers unparalleled panoramic views of the city from its towers, making it a must-visit for landscape photographers. Look for unique angles and details, such as ornate balconies, carved doorways, and the vibrant colors of local life.
For capturing the essence of the historical center of Quito, try to include people in your shots to add a sense of scale and life. Street photography can be very rewarding, but always be respectful and ask for permission before taking close-up portraits. A versatile lens, such as a 24-70mm, will allow you to capture both grand architectural vistas and intimate details.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit