Must See Places in Quito, Ecuador – A Comprehensive Guide

Quito, the capital of Ecuador, is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Located in the Andean highlands, Quito is known for its history, stunning colonial architecture, stunning mountain views, and vibrant culture. Whether you’re looking for adventure, history, culture, or nature, Quito has something for everyone. Here is a comprehensive guide to the must see places in Quito, Ecuador.

Old Town Quito

The heart of Quito is the bustling and vibrant Old Town. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to some of the most stunning colonial architecture in the world. The cobblestone streets are lined with beautiful churches and colorful buildings. Explore the Plaza Grande, the central square of Quito, and take in the beauty of the Presidential Palace, the Archbishop’s Palace, and the City Hall. Don’t miss the stunning San Francisco Church, one of the most beautiful churches in Quito.

Take a stroll through the narrow streets of Old Town and explore the many shops, cafés, and restaurants. Stop by the bustling Plaza San Francisco for some of the best street food in Quito, and take in the vibrant atmosphere of this charming part of the city. Old Town Quito is truly a must-see destination in Quito.

In the evening, take a ride up to El Panecillo, a hilltop park overlooking the city. Here you can get a stunning view of the lights of Quito, and watch the sun set over the city.

Mitad del Mundo

Just outside of Quito lies the Mitad del Mundo, or “middle of the world”. This is the site of the equator, and is marked by a large monument and a museum. Here you can stand with one foot in the Northern Hemisphere and one foot in the Southern Hemisphere. Take a tour of the museum and learn about the history of the equator, and explore the many shops and restaurants in the area. The Mitad del Mundo is a great day trip from Quito and is a must-see destination for any visitor.

Basílica del Voto Nacional

The Basílica del Voto Nacional is an impressive neo-Gothic cathedral located in the heart of Quito. The cathedral was built in the late 19th century and is an impressive sight, towering above the city. Inside you can find stunning stained glass windows, murals, and sculptures. The Basílica del Voto Nacional is one of the most iconic sights in Quito, and a must-see destination for any visitor.

Cotopaxi National Park

Cotopaxi National Park is located just outside of Quito, and is home to one of Ecuador’s most iconic sights – the Cotopaxi Volcano. This stunning mountain rises over 19,000 feet into the sky and is an impressive sight from any angle. Take a tour of the park and explore the many trails, or take a horseback ride to the summit of Cotopaxi. Cotopaxi National Park is a must-see for any visitor to Quito.

Teleferico

The Teleferico is the cable car system of Quito. Take a ride up the slopes of Pichincha Volcano and get a stunning view of the city. On a clear day, you can see for miles in every direction. The Teleferico is a great way to explore the city and take in the beauty of the Andean Highlands.

Casa de la Cultura Ecuatoriana

The Casa de la Cultura Ecuatoriana is a museum and cultural center located in Quito. Here you can find a wide variety of exhibits about Ecuadorian culture, art, and history. This is a great place to explore the history and culture of Ecuador, and to learn more about the country.

La Mitad del Mundo Museum

The La Mitad del Mundo Museum is located at the site of the equator, and is a great place to learn about the history and science of the equator. The museum is home to a variety of exhibits about the history of the equator, and you can even find an exhibit about the Coriolis effect and how it affects the rotation of the earth. This is a great place to explore the science and history of the equator.

Galapagos Islands

The Galapagos Islands are a must-see destination for any visitor to Ecuador. Located just off the coast of Ecuador, the Galapagos Islands are home to a variety of unique wildlife and stunning landscapes. You can explore the islands on a day trip from Quito, and take in the beauty of the Galapagos Islands. This is a great place to explore the unique wildlife and stunning landscapes of the Galapagos Islands.

Otavalo Market

The Otavalo Market is one of the largest and most vibrant markets in Ecuador. Located just outside of Quito, the Otavalo Market is a great place to explore the culture and customs of Ecuador. Here you can find a wide variety of local crafts, textiles, jewelry, and other goods. This is a great place to explore the culture and traditions of Ecuador.

Culinary Scene of Quito

Quito has an amazing culinary scene, with a variety of restaurants and cafés offering a wide range of cuisine. Try some of the local dishes such as ceviche, empanadas, and ajiaco. Stop by one of the many bars and restaurants in the Old Town and take in the vibrant atmosphere of Quito’s culinary scene.

Pululahua Geobotanical Reserve

The Pululahua Geobotanical Reserve is a stunning nature reserve located just outside of Quito. Here you can find a variety of unique wildlife, such as the Andean condor, spectacled bear, and the Andean fox. Take a hike through the reserve and explore its stunning landscapes, or take a horseback ride and explore the area. The Pululahua Geobotanical Reserve is a must-see destination for any nature lover.

Cotopaxi Volcano Hike

The Cotopaxi Volcano is one of the most iconic sights in Ecuador, and a great place to explore. Take a guided tour and hike up to the summit of the volcano and take in the stunning views of the surrounding area. This is a great way to explore the area and take in the beauty of the Cotopaxi Volcano.

Conclusion

Quito, Ecuador is an amazing destination, with a variety of attractions and activities for visitors to explore. From the vibrant Old Town to the stunning Cotopaxi Volcano, Quito is a must-see destination for any traveler. Whether you’re looking for adventure, history, culture, or nature, Quito has something for everyone. This comprehensive guide to the must see places in Quito, Ecuador will help you make the most of your time in this beautiful city.