Quito, Ecuador-5-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

  • Morning
    • Arrive at Mariscal Sucre International Airport
    • Take a taxi or shuttle bus ( approx. $5-$10) to your accommodation in the city center
  • Afternoon
    • Visit the iconic Casa de la Cultura (House of Culture), a stunning art nouveau building with beautiful gardens and great views of the city
    • Explore the surrounding streets and shops, including the famous El Centro Histórico shopping area
  • Evening
    • Head to La Ronda, a lively street filled with restaurants, bars, and street performers
    • Try some traditional Ecuadorian cuisine at Restaurante El Mesón de la Ciudad

Accommodation: Stay at the 3-star Hotel Patio del Mundo, located in the heart of Quito’s old town.

Getting Around:

  • Taxis are widely available, but be sure to use a licensed taxi (yellow cabs) and agree on the fare before you start your journey
  • Public buses are also an option, but be prepared for crowded conditions

Things to Know:

  • Quito is a high-altitude city (9,350 ft), so take it easy and stay hydrated
  • Be mindful of pickpocketing in crowded areas and tourist hotspots

Day 2: Historical Landmarks

  • Morning
    • Visit the stunning Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesús, a beautiful example of Baroque architecture
    • Explore the adjacent Plaza de la Independencia, a historic square surrounded by colonial buildings
  • Afternoon
    • Head to the impressive Palacio de Carondelet, the seat of government in Ecuador and home to the President’s office
    • Visit the nearby Iglesia de San Francisco, one of the oldest churches in Quito
  • Evening
    • Enjoy traditional Ecuadorian cuisine at Restaurante El Mesón de la Ciudad (same as Day 1)

Tips:

  • Be sure to visit these historical landmarks early in your trip, before the crowds and heat become too much to handle
  • Don’t miss the stunning views from the top of the Cathedral of Quito

Day 3: Natural Wonders

  • Morning
    • Take a short bus ride (approx. $1) or taxi (approx. $5-$10) to the nearby Parque La Carolina, a beautiful urban park with plenty of walking trails
    • Visit the adjacent Quito Botanical Garden, home to over 2,000 plant species
  • Afternoon
    • Head to the stunning Cable Car (TelefériQo), which offers breathtaking views of the city and surrounding mountains
    • Take a stroll through the charming neighborhood of La Mariscal

Restaurants:

  • Try some delicious Ecuadorian street food at Street Food Quito, located in La Ronda (same as Day 1)
  • Enjoy traditional Ecuadorian cuisine at Restaurante El Mesón de la Ciudad (same as Days 1 and 2)

Day 4: Local Experience

  • Morning
    • Visit the bustling Mercado Central, a vibrant marketplace filled with local vendors selling everything from produce to handicrafts
    • Take a cooking class at Cooking Quito, where you can learn how to prepare traditional Ecuadorian dishes
  • Afternoon
    • Head to the charming neighborhood of La Floresta, known for its beautiful gardens and historic architecture
    • Visit the nearby Centro de Arte Contemporáneo (CAC), a modern art museum showcasing local and international artists

Accommodation:

  • Consider upgrading to a 4-star hotel, such as the Hotel Casa del Sol

Day 5: More Quito Adventures

  • Morning
    • Visit the historic neighborhood of La Ronda, where you can explore the charming streets and alleys
    • Head to the nearby Quito Market, a bustling marketplace selling local handicrafts and souvenirs
  • Afternoon
    • Take a short bus ride (approx. $1) or taxi (approx. $5-$10) to the nearby Parque Bicentenario, a beautiful urban park with plenty of walking trails
    • Visit the adjacent Museo del Barrio (Neighborhood Museum), which showcases the history and culture of Quito’s neighborhoods

Tips:

  • Don’t forget to try some traditional Ecuadorian desserts, such as Tres Leches cake or Humitas
  • Be sure to visit these local experiences early in your trip, before the crowds become too much to handle