Centro Histórico Travel Guide
Quito
Visit Centro Histórico
Popular places to visit
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.
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.
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.
Church of the Society of Jesus
Bask in the golden glow of this breathtaking Baroque temple with volcanic stone façade and interiors adorned with sumptuous gold leaf.
Things to do
Quito City Tour Double Decker Bus
Full-Day Tour to Quilotoa Lagoon From Quito with Lunch
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
Full-Day Otavalo and Cotacachi Market Tour
Top hotels in Centro Histórico
Hotel San Francisco de Quito
Reviewed on 17 Oct 2025
Hotel Casa Alquimia
Reviewed on 18 Oct 2025
Hotel Patio Andaluz
Reviewed on 15 Oct 2025
La Casona de la Ronda Boutique Hotel
Reviewed on 11 Oct 2025
Hotel Plaza Grande
Reviewed on 6 Oct 2025
Old Town Quito Suites, Apartments & Boutique hotel
Reviewed on 28 Sept 2025
Other neighbourhoods around Centro Histórico
Quito Historic Center
Churches, museums and shopping are just a few things travellers like about Quito Historic Center. Sights like Independence Square and Catedral Metropolitana de Quito 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.
El Belén
If you're spending time in El Belén, check out sights like House of Ecuadorian Culture or National Assembly of Ecuador and hop on the metro to see more of the city at El Ejido Station or La Alameda Station.
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 Centro Comercial Multicentro and Mindalae Museum.
