Centro Histórico Travel Guide
Popular places to visit
Catedral Metropolitana de Quito
Admire an exciting combination of architectural styles, explore gilded chambers and appreciate stunning paintings in one of the South America’s oldest churches.
Independence Square
This picturesque square, featuring flowerbeds and fountains, is surrounded by colonial architecture, street vendors and monuments to its long history.
El Panecillo
Use this iconic Quito hill as an ever-present landmark point when navigating the city or climb to its peak to enjoy panoramic views of the Andes alongside the Virgen de Quito statue.
San Francisco Church
Discover blends of Moorish and Baroque interior design, browse artworks and visit a converted catacomb in this expansive church complex, which was built at the foundation of Quito.
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
Admire views of the San Francisco Church while enjoying the entertaining atmosphere of crowds, street performers and vendors in this historic square.
Activities
Otavalo Market and Laguna Cuicocha Full-Day Tour from Quito
8-Days Amazon Rainforest Multi-Sport Adventure
9-Days Exploring the Andes
5-Days Amazon Rainforest and Andes Adventure
Best of Ecuador 8-Day tour
12-Day Private Ecuador & Galapagos Regenerative Tour
Our pick of the best Centro Histórico Hotel Deals
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Other neighbourhoods around Centro Histórico
Quito Historic Center
Churches, museums and shopping are some highlights of Quito Historic Center. Make a stop by Independence Square or Catedral Metropolitana de Quito while you're exploring.
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.
Miraflores
If you're spending some time in Miraflores, TelefériQo 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.
La Floresta
La Floresta is noteworthy for its restaurants, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Trude Sojka Cultural House and Weilbauer Museum.
Hacienda Monjas
You'll enjoy the restaurants and museums in Hacienda Monjas. You might want to make time for a stop at General Rumiñahui Coliseum or Concentración Deportiva de Pichincha.