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Where to Stay in Quito

Where to Stay in Quito

Pichincha Ecuador Travel Guide

Accommodation Types

Full Spectrum of Lodging Options

  • Hostels

    Many hostels offer dorm beds and private rooms. These are affordable-friendly and feature social atmospheres, which makes them good for solo travelers.

  • Guesthouses (Hospedajes/Hostales)

    These are compacter, often family-run establishments. They provide comfortable, basic accommodations at a mid-range price point.

  • Boutique Hotels

    Many of these are located in beautifully restored colonial buildings. They include charm, character, plus tailored attention, often with larger comfort levels.

  • Luxury Hotels

    For those seeking indulgence, high-end hotels feature refined service, modern amenities, and often a sense of history.

Unique Local Accommodation Types

  • Colonial Mansions (Casas Coloniales)

    Several historic mansions in the Historic Center have been converted into boutique hotels.

  • Vacation Rentals and Apartment Options

    Platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo list apartments and homes for rent. These options include more space, privacy, and the capability to cook your own meals, useful for longer stays or families.

  • Cultural Immersion

    These lodgings provide cultural immersion experiences.

  • Camping and Outdoor Lodging

    Camping facilities are not found within the urban confines of the Old Town. These are in designated areas outside the city, typically inside national parks or rustic settings.

Neighborhood Guide

Detailed Breakdown of Areas and Their Character

Quito Historic Center

Pros
  • You stay within walking distance of most major attractions, including La Compañía de Jesús, Plaza Grande, and San Francisco.
  • An authentic, historic atmosphere is found here.
  • Generally safe during daylight hours due to police presence and tourism-related activity.
  • Central for exploring all historic attractions. The new San Francisco Metro station has good connectivity to different parts of the city.
Cons
  • Some areas become very quiet after dark, with fewer modern dining or nightlife options compared to other districts.
  • Streets are hilly and paved with cobblestones, challenging for walking.
  • Exercise caution at night, especially on fewer populated side streets. Stick to main, well-lit areas.
  • Can be noisy during the day with street vendors and congestion. Generally quiets down significantly at night.

La Ronda

Pros
  • Very charming and a good place in the evening stroll, dining, and undergoing local culture.
  • Lively evening atmosphere with live music.
  • Artisan shops and traditional restaurants.
  • Picturesque pedestrian street.
Cons
  • Might get packed, especially on weekends.
  • Accommodation options are limited to smaller boutique hotels or b&bs.
  • Fewer modern amenities.
  • Might experience higher noise levels during peak hours.

La Mariscal Mariscal Sucre

Pros
  • Lively atmosphere, many dining and entertainment options.
  • More modern hotel facilities.
  • The city’s main nightlife hub.
  • Wide selection of hotels, restaurants, bars, and travel agencies.
Cons
  • It lacks the real colonial feel of the Historical Core.
  • You will need transportation (taxi, Metro, bus) to reach the historic sites.
  • Exercise standard urban precautions, especially at night due to nightlife.
  • Can be noisy due to nightlife.

Additional Safety and Proximity Notes

Safety Considerations by Area

Inside the Historic Core, always keep to populated-lit, populated main streets at night. Avoid walking alone in deserted or poorly lit alleyways. Using taxis or ride-sharing apps for evening travel, even for short distances, is a wise choice.

Proximity to Attractions and Transportation Hubs

Historic Center accommodations place you directly amidst the colonial attractions, allowing easy walking access. The recently opened San Francisco Metro station has good connectivity to northern and southern parts of the city, making it easy to access areas like La Mariscal or the airport bus terminal.

Booking Strategies

Smart booking strategies help make sure you get the accommodation you prefer and potentially save money.

Advance Booking Recommendations by Season

  • High Season (June-September, December-January): Book your accommodation 2-THREE months prior, especially for popular boutique hotels in the Historic Center. Demand is high in these periods.
  • Shoulder Season (October-November, February-May): Booking 1-2 months in advance is usually sufficient. You might find increased availability and potentially better rates.
  • Wet Season: While more flexible, booking a few weeks ahead is still recommended, especially if you have specific preferences.
  • Platform Review: Always review platform options.

Trusted Booking Platforms and Local Systems

  • Booking Platforms: Widely used international platforms include Booking.com, Agoda, IHG Hotels, Hostelworld, Vrbo, and Airbnb. Many places to stay also have direct booking through their online sites, which sometimes include special discounts or added benefits.
  • Deposit and Cancellation Policies: Always review the deposit requirements and cancellation policies before confirming your booking. These vary significantly by property and booking platform.
  • Seasonal Price Fluctuations: Accommodation costs are elevated during high season and public holidays. Conversely, you might discover more competitive rates during the shoulder or wetter seasons.
  • House Sitting: Explore options with TrustedHousesitters for unique stays.

Considerations

Value for Money

Selecting the right accommodation type balances comfort, location, and budget.

Local Insights

Local insights into neighborhood character and safety add to a positive experience.

Accommodation Recommendations

Here are some illustrative recommendations for different types of travelers, focusing on what to look for when booking.

Budget Accommodation

Budget Hostels

Look for backpacker lodgings with clean dorms and private rooms.

  • Clean Dorms
  • Private Rooms
  • Social Atmosphere
  • Central Locations
Mid-Range Hotels

Consider hotels offering comfortable rooms and good amenities.

  • Comfortable Rooms
  • Good Amenities
  • Historic Colonial appeal
  • Excellent Service

Luxury Stays

Luxury Hotels

Seek high-end service and historic ambiance.

  • High-End Service
  • Historic Ambiance
  • Elegantly Appointed Rooms
  • Stunning Views
Family & Long-Stay

Hotels or vacation rentals with generously-sized rooms are good choices.

  • Spacious Rooms
  • Safe Locations
  • Kitchenettes
  • Weekly/Monthly Discounts

Booking Considerations

  • Advance Booking

    Book 2-3 months ahead for high season, 1-2 months for shoulder season.

  • Trusted Platforms

    Use platforms like Booking.com, Agoda, Expedia, Airbnb, Vrbo, Hostelworld.

  • Policies

    Always review deposit requirements and cancellation policies.

  • Price Fluctuations

    Expect increased costs during peak seasons and major holidays.

Unique Stays

  • Colonial Mansions

    Historic mansions converted to boutique hotels offer charm.

  • Vacation Rentals

    Good for families or longer stays; find more space and kitchens.

  • House Sitting

    Explore TrustedHousesitters for unique exchange experiences.

  • Outdoor Options

    Camping is outside the city in parks or rural settings.

Booking Insights

Choosing a Fit

Always check reviews and location.

  • Consider personal travel style.
  • Account for trip duration.
  • Review guest feedback.
  • Verify location details.
Additional Platforms

While general e-commerce does not sell hotel stays directly, platforms like Booking.com and Expedia are useful for finding and booking these types of accommodations.

  • Utilize a travel manualing websites.
  • Compare rates across platforms.
  • Look for exclusive deals.
  • Book directly for certain benefits.

Summary of Considerations

Budget Allocation

Quito has options from affordable hostels to luxury hotels, fitting various financial plans.

Booking Timing

Advance booking is important, especially during high seasons, for better availability and rates.