Centro Histórico Travel Guide
Quito
Visit Centro Histórico
Popular places to visit
Catedral Metropolitana de Quito
Discover one of the oldest churches in South America, featuring an intriguing mix of architectural styles, magnificent Catholic artworks and a fascinating history.
Independence Square
Rows of stately colonial buildings and a 16th-century cathedral surround this historic civic square on the site where Quito’s Old Town made its humble beginnings.
El Panecillo
Admire an iconic statue and see panoramic views of Quito and its surrounding volcanoes from this green hilltop in the heart of the city’s Old Town.
St. Francis Catholic Church
This church and monastery complex is as old as the city itself and features stunning 16th-century architecture, a converted catacomb and 3,500 artworks.
Calle La Ronda
Visit artisan shops, bohemian cafés and centuries-old houses as you wander this quaint cobblestone street on the edge of Quito’s historic center.
Plaza de San Francisco
This public square in front of San Francisco Church is a great spot to enjoy the history and culture of the Old Town with views of local landmarks.
Things to do
Full-Day Tour to Quilotoa Lagoon From Quito with Lunch
Small-Group Quito Legends & Culture Tour
Quito City Tour Double Decker Bus
Quilotoa, Culture and Hiking from Quito !!!! ALL DAYS !!! BY ECUADORTREASURE
Full Day Hike and Bike Experience Cotopaxi Volcano with Lunch
Quilotoa Lagoon and Indian Markets in One Day from Quito
Top hotels in Centro Histórico
Hotel San Francisco de Quito
Beautiful 400-year-old hotel in the central historic district of Quito. The floorboards are squeaky but that can be expected in such an old building.
Reviewed on 28 Apr 2026
Hotel Plaza Grande
Hotel location directly on the central plaza is amazing. All Old Town Quito attractions are within easy walking distance. The hotel itself is stunning, beautiful historic decor. Room was beautiful. The best part of our stay however was the staff, so warm and welcoming. They paid attention to every ...
Reviewed on 26 Apr 2026
Casa Gangotena
Expensive for old hotel
Reviewed on 21 Apr 2026
Friends Hotel & Rooftop - Historic Center & Museums
This place is fabulous! Welcoming, clean, quiet and yet, close to the action (Centro Historico). I highly recommend it!
Reviewed on 16 Apr 2026
La Casona de la Ronda Boutique Hotel
We chose to stay here on both ends of our Galapagos trip. With no preconceived ideas of Quito, we weren’t sure what to expect, from the city or the hotel itself. We were more than pleasantly surprised by both. The hotel was perfectly located within the Centro Historico, and provided easy access to ...
Reviewed on 30 Apr 2026
Hotel Casa Alquimia
Right in the heart of town
Reviewed on 25 Apr 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Centro Histórico
The Street of the Seven Crosses
Shopping, churches and restaurants are some highlights of The Street of the Seven Crosses. Make a stop by Carondelet Palace or Independence Square while you're exploring.
Quito Historic Center
Churches, museums and shopping are just a few things travellers like about Quito Historic Center. Sights like Carondelet Palace and Independence Square are spots to explore, and you can get around the greater Quito area at San Francisco Station.
San Juan
You'll enjoy the museums and monuments in San Juan. You might want to make time for a stop at Centro de Arte Contemporaneo or Palacio de Gobierno.
La Mariscal
La Mariscal is known for its ample dining options, and you can make a stop by Foch Square and La Mariscal Craft Market while in the area.
La Floresta
La Floresta is noteworthy for its restaurants, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Abya Yala Museum and Trude Sojka Cultural House.
Colón
While visiting Colón, you might make a stop by sights like Uio Microtheater and Mindalae Museum.
