Quito
A jewel of colonial old towns, high in the Andes on the equator
Browse Quito
Quito, the capital of Ecuador, sits high in the Andes at 2,850 metres and boasts one of the largest and best-preserved colonial old towns in the Americas, a UNESCO World Heritage Site of gilded churches, grand plazas and cobbled lanes. Ringed by volcanoes and straddling the equator, it offers cable-car views, the Middle of the World monument and a springboard to Cotopaxi, Baños and the cloud forest. Our local picks run from boutique heritage hotels and colonial churches to lively bars and artisan markets. Filter by category and budget below to plan your visit.
Quito at a glance
- Ideal stay: 2 to 3 days
- Best time to visit: June to September
- Highlights: the colonial old town, the TeleferiQo and the Middle of the World
- Where to stay: the colonial old town
- Local picks: a growing set of hand-chosen tips
- Getting around: a walkable old town plus taxis and ride-hailing apps
Where to stay in Quito
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Santa Clara
Before you go
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Book your trip to Quito
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Find hotels in QuitoBook tours and experiencesQuito travel FAQ
How many days do you need in Quito?
Two to three days covers the colonial old town, the cable car and the Middle of the World, with time for day trips to Cotopaxi, Baños or the Mindo cloud forest.
Where is the best area to stay in Quito?
The colonial old town keeps you within walking distance of the main churches, plazas and sights, while La Mariscal has the modern hotels and nightlife.
What are the best things to do in Quito?
Browse the local picks above, from the golden La Compañia church and the Basilica towers to the TeleferiQo, El Panecillo and the Middle of the World.
What is the best time to visit Quito?
June to September is the drier season and best for sightseeing and day trips; being on the equator, Quito enjoys mild spring-like temperatures all year.