Quito Historic Center Travel Guide
Quito
Visit Quito Historic Center
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.
Basilica of the National Vow
Visit this magnificent neo-Gothic landmark to admire its fine architecture and Ecuador-themed gargoyles, and the panoramic views from its immense towers.
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.
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.
Carondelet Palace
Discover centuries of Ecuadorian presidential history and an interesting art display as you explore the rooms of this 17th-century palace.
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
Quito City Tour Double Decker Bus
Full Day Hike and Bike Experience Cotopaxi Volcano with Lunch
Quilotoa, Culture and Hiking from Quito !!!! ALL DAYS !!! BY ECUADORTREASURE
Quito: Middle of the World, Intiñan Museum, Cable Car, Craft Market
Quilotoa Lagoon and Indian Markets in One Day from Quito
Top hotels in Quito Historic Center
Hotel San Francisco de Quito
"A beautiful place, next to the centro histórico and major landmarks of Quito, staff very helpful and very friendly"
Reviewed on 27 May 2026
Hotel Plaza Grande
"The hotel was beautiful and the staff super helpful. The exterior walls are very thin and we had trouble sleeping because of all of the outside noise. The bed is also very hard."
Reviewed on 24 May 2026
Casa Gangotena
"Everything was perfect. Highly recommend this hotel. Staff was very accommodating. They even delivered a boxed breakfast at 3 AM so we could be on our way to the airport. Just an amazing experience."
Reviewed on 12 May 2026
Vista del Angel Hotel Boutique
"Staff really helpful with helping us to figure out the must do’s in Quito. Breakfast was great, service was the best."
Reviewed on 25 May 2026
Friends Hotel & Rooftop - Historic Center & Museums
"We loved this place. Wonderful staff. Great location. Authentic but not rustic. On a pedestrian street close to everything..you won't go wrong staying here"
Reviewed on 27 May 2026
Rossa Mia Hotel Boutique
"Staff were nice and helpful. Location is convenient."
Reviewed on 12 May 2026
Check Quito Historic Center hotel availability
Other neighbourhoods around Quito Historic Center
Centro Histórico
While you're in Centro Histórico, take in top sights like Calle La Ronda and jump on the metro at San Francisco Station to see more of the city.
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.
La Colon
If you're spending some time in La Colon, Uio Microtheater and Mindalae Museum are top sights worth seeing.
