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.
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.
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.
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
Full Day Hike and Bike Experience Cotopaxi Volcano with Lunch
Quilotoa, Culture and Hiking from Quito !!!! ALL DAYS !!! BY ECUADORTREASURE
Quilotoa Lagoon and Indian Markets in One Day from Quito
Full-Day Otavalo and Cotacachi Market Tour
Cotopaxi National Park: Full-Day Tour from Quito
Top hotels in Centro Histórico
Hotel San Francisco de Quito
The hotel staff were wonderful, the rooms were clean, and the building had a very nice rooftop overlooking the city. Highly recommend!
Reviewed on 12 Jan 2026
Friends Hotel & Rooftop - Historic Center & Museums
The staff at this hotel are excellent. Super helpful and friendly. Location is great and staff give great recommendations for activities and restaurants in the area.
Reviewed on 3 Jan 2026
Hotel Plaza Grande
The hotel was beautiful and perfect location in old town. The staff was very friendly and helpful. I would definitely comeback and recommend it.
Reviewed on 26 Dec 2025
Hotel Casa Alquimia
beautifully decorated hotel
Reviewed on 9 Jan 2026
Hotel Mama Cuchara by Art Hotels Ecuador
Staff were amazing, so comfortable and great art
Reviewed on 11 Jan 2026
Real Audiencia Hotel
Great service from the minute I arrived. Desk agent met my taxi and helped me. Terrific breakfast w more excellent service. Concierge service helped me locate a phone repair and side trips. Very pleased.
Reviewed on 19 Oct 2025
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.
El Belén
If you're spending time in El Belén, check out sights like National Assembly of Ecuador or House of Ecuadorian Culture and hop on the metro to see more of the city at El Ejido Station or La Alameda Station.
Miraflores
If you're spending some time in Miraflores, TelefériQo Base Station and Liga Deportiva Universitaria Stadium are top sights worth seeing.
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.
