Ecuador
These are the must-visit sites that define Quito’s Historic Center.
Quito’s historic core is an UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for its well-preserved colonial architecture.
The church's facade is also very detailed.
The official residence and workplace of the President of Ecuador, located on Plaza Grande. Guided tours are available on specific days (check schedule and book in advance).
This church and convent complex is known for its cloister, impressive art, and its historical significance related to the signing of the Act of Independence.
This historic street runs through the heart of the Historic Center. It is lined with seven crosses, each marking a religious site or significant intersection.
Plaza Grande is always open and free. Basílica is open roughly from 09:00 AM to 05:00 PM with a $2-$3 USD fee for tower access.
Changing of the guard at Presidential Palace on Monday mornings (check times). Views from Basílica towers are worth the steep climb.
Quito’s museums showcase its rich artistic and historical legacy.
This museum presents Quito's history from its pre-Columbian origins through the colonial period to modern times. It is housed in a former hospital building. Entry fee: ~$3 USD.
This museum holds an extensive collection of art from the colonial period, including paintings, sculptures, and furniture from the Quito School.
A smaller, well-curated museum dedicated to pre-Columbian art. It features an impressive collection of artifacts, offering insights into Ecuador’s ancient civilizations.
This large cultural center hosts various exhibitions, houses libraries, and stages cultural events. Check its schedule for current programming.
Located next to the Capilla del Hombre, this was Guayasamín's former home and studio. It includes insight into the artist's life and a significant collection of his work and pre-Columbian artifacts.
An interactive museum exploring the importance of water. It is housed in an old water treatment plant and offers beautiful city views from its gardens. This is a family-friendly option.
The official residence and workplace of the President of Ecuador, located on Plaza Grande. Guided tours are available on specific days (check schedule and book in advance).
This church and convent complex is known for its cloister, impressive art, and its historical significance related to the signing of the Act of Independence.
This historic street runs through the heart of the Historic Center. It is lined with seven crosses, each marking a religious site or significant intersection.
While famous for its colonial heritage, Quito also offers natural beauty.
Seek out these less-frequented but equally rewarding attractions.
Consider using GetYourGuide for booking tours to various attractions and experiences in Quito.
An art museum dedicated to the powerful and moving work of renowned Ecuadorian artist Oswaldo Guayasamín. It features a profound experience of his socio-political art.
Located next to the Capilla del Hombre, this was Guayasamín's former home and studio. It includes insight into the artist's life and a significant collection of his work and pre-Columbian artifacts.
An impressive church with a beautiful plaza in front. It features a blend of Baroque and Mudejar styles and houses significant religious art.
An interactive museum exploring the importance of water. It is housed in an old water treatment plant and offers beautiful city views from its gardens. This is a family-friendly option.
Quito’s museums showcase its rich artistic and historical legacy.
This museum presents Quito's history from its pre-Columbian origins through the colonial period to modern times.
This museum holds an extensive collection of art from the colonial period, including paintings, sculptures, and furniture from the Quito School.
A smaller, well-curated museum dedicated to pre-Columbian art. It features an impressive collection of artifacts, offering insights into Ecuador’s ancient civilizations.
This large cultural center hosts various exhibitions, houses libraries, and stages cultural events. Check its schedule for current programming.
Explore EventsLocated next to the Capilla del Hombre, this was Guayasamín's former home and studio. It includes insight into the artist's life and a significant collection of his work and pre-Columbian artifacts.
Visit MuseumAn interactive museum exploring the importance of water. It is housed in an old water treatment plant and offers beautiful city views from its gardens. This is a family-friendly option.
Learn MoreVisiting these sites deepens knowledge of Quito’s history and art.
Checking opening hours and tour availability before visits is a good practice.
Beyond the main landmarks, Quito offers many other sites that tell its story.
While famous for its colonial heritage, Quito also offers natural beauty.
Many sites offer discounts for students or seniors; carry relevant ID.
Local guides add depth to visits with historical context and local stories.
Seek out these less-frequented but equally rewarding attractions.
An art museum dedicated to the powerful and moving work of renowned Ecuadorian artist Oswaldo Guayasamín. It features a profound experience of his socio-political art.
Located next to the Capilla del Hombre, this was Guayasamín's former home and studio. It includes insight into the artist's life and a significant collection of his work and pre-Columbian artifacts.
An impressive church with a beautiful plaza in front. It features a blend of Baroque and Mudejar styles and houses significant religious art.
Worth exploring for its historical details.
An interactive museum exploring the importance of water. It is housed in an old water treatment plant and offers beautiful city views from its gardens. This is a family-friendly option.
Offers beautiful city views from its gardens.
Explore other less-frequented but equally rewarding attractions.
Consider alternative routes for exploration.
Visiting these sites deepens knowledge of Quito’s history and art.
Checking opening hours and tour availability before visits is a good practice.
Many sites offer discounts for students or seniors; local guides add depth to visits.
