Top reasons to visit Quito
- Charming Old Town: Quito's historic centre is a UNESCO World Heritage site, showcasing stunning colonial architecture and rich cultural heritage.
- Outdoor Adventures: The city offers beautiful waterfall hikes and urban parks, perfect for nature lovers and families.
- Vibrant Neighbourhoods: Explore the artistic El Ejido, known for its friendly atmosphere and local eateries.
- Delicious Local Cuisine: Experience a diverse range of dining options, from traditional Ecuadorian dishes to contemporary cuisine.
- Diverse Accommodation: From charming B&Bs to luxury hotels, Quito caters to all types of travellers.
Find great hotels in Quito
Whether you're seeking a family-friendly accommodation, a pet-friendly getaway, or a business-oriented hotel, Quito offers a diverse array of lodging options to cater to every traveller's needs. From charming bed and breakfasts to top hotels in the heart of the city, you'll find the perfect base to explore the rich culture and stunning landscapes of Ecuador. Enjoy your stay in this vibrant destination.
- Hotel Finlandia: Nestled in the heart of Quito, Hotel Finlandia is a charming 3.5-star hotel with a strong city-themed atmosphere, ideal for business travellers. With an impressive guest rating of 9.0 out of 10, the hotel offers a comfortable stay complemented by its central location. Guests can enjoy modern amenities and a welcoming environment, making it a suitable choice for those looking to explore Quito's vibrant city life while having convenient access to business facilities.
- Hotel Reina Isabel: A delightful option for families and couples, Hotel Reina Isabel is a 3.5-star hotel boasting a guest rating of 9.0 out of 10. Its romantic and adventure-focused theme is perfect for those seeking a memorable experience in Quito. The hotel features a variety of recreational activities, including onsite adventure sports and mini-golf for children. With amenities like romance packages and garden views from the restaurant, this hotel provides a unique blend of family fun and intimate experiences for all guests.
- Hotel Dann Carlton Quito: For those desiring a luxurious escape, Hotel Dann Carlton Quito offers a 5-star experience with an impressive guest rating of 9.2 out of 10. This family-friendly hotel features a full spa, sauna, and an indoor pool, ensuring relaxation and rejuvenation. Additionally, amenities for children, such as an arcade game room and cribs, make it a practical choice for families. With exceptional service and an emphasis on comfort, this hotel stands out as a premier choice for a lavish stay in Quito.
Where to stay in Quito
Quito, the vibrant capital of Ecuador, offers a captivating blend of history and culture, perfect for outdoor and family adventures. Explore the heart of the city with its stunning views and rich heritage, or unwind in the charming El Ejido neighbourhood, known for its friendly atmosphere and artistic vibe. Whether you're wandering through historical sites or enjoying the local cuisine, Quito promises an unforgettable holiday experience for every traveller.
- Tababela: Nestled on the outskirts of Quito, Tababela is a vibrant city known for its accessibility and charm. The area experiences a steady flow of visitors year-round, with peak periods in April, July, and September. Adventurers and families flock here for outdoor activities, including hiking and exploring the nearby mountains and volcanoes. Tababela features a range of recreational areas and shopping centres, making it an ideal base for both relaxation and exploration. Be sure to visit local monuments that reflect the region's rich history.
- Quito Historic Center: The Quito Historic Center is a UNESCO World Heritage site, renowned for its stunning colonial architecture and vibrant atmosphere. This neighbourhood sees visitors throughout the year, with peak numbers in April and during the August to September period. It’s a hub for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking breathtaking scenery, with accessible attractions such as national parks, a cable car gondola, and exhilarating zipline courses. Strolling through the cobblestone streets, you'll discover charming plazas and majestic churches, making it a perfect blend of adventure and culture.
- La Carolina: La Carolina is a lively neighbourhood that embodies the essence of city life in Quito. It draws visitors year-round, particularly peaking in March to April and September. Known for its family-friendly parks, shopping centres, and recreational facilities, La Carolina offers a delightful mix of urban experiences. The area is home to an expansive urban park and a historic sports stadium, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities. Whether you're shopping or enjoying a picnic in the park, La Carolina promises a vibrant and enjoyable experience for all.
Things to do in Quito
Shopping
In Quito, visit Quicentro Shopping for a blend of local and international brands. For a more traditional experience, explore the Otavalo Market, known for its vibrant textiles and handicrafts. Don't miss La Mariscal for unique artisan shops and souvenirs that reflect Ecuador's rich culture.
Recreation
Experience tranquility at the Shanti Spa, where you can indulge in holistic therapies and rejuvenating massages. Afterward, explore the Parque La Carolina, offering beautiful walking paths and lush gardens for fresh air and relaxation amidst nature.
Adventure
Experience the thrill of TelefériQo, a scenic gondola ride that takes you high above Quito. Enjoy panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains while embracing the fresh air. Once at the top, explore various hiking trails for an adventurous day out with family and friends.
Nightlife
In Quito, La Ronda is renowned for its vibrant atmosphere, with traditional music and dance. For a lively bar scene, head to Plaza Foch, where you’ll find a variety of pubs and clubs offering diverse entertainment options, perfect for experiencing the local nightlife culture.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Quito
Quito is a fantastic destination for budget-savvy travellers. Enjoy free attractions like the Monument to the Equator, Parque La Carolina, and Foch Square. For transportation, the bus and trolleybus are affordable options. To save on accommodation, consider visiting in January or August to September, when prices dip. Booking through Expedia allows you to easily filter for budget-friendly hotels and combine your stay with flights and activities for extra savings. Be on the lookout for popular offers and last-minute deals to make the most of your trip without breaking the bank.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Quito are January and August to September, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to April, July and December, where prices are slightly higher.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Quito is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay in Quito is Tuesday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to choose your budget, preferred location, and additional criteria. You can easily sort your results to display hotels from the most affordable to the pricier options, allowing you to find the best deals first. Additionally, you have the ability to filter your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified option will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are available for booking.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your hotel stay in Quito with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
Find the best attractions in Quito
Quito is an excellent destination for outdoor adventures and family vacations, offering a mix of urban parks, churches, and museums to explore. Visitors can immerse themselves in the rich culture and vibrant city life. Key attractions include the charming old town of Quito, which showcases its historical significance, making it a must-visit for any traveller seeking a unique experience in Ecuador.
- Monument to the Equator: Visit this intriguing monument located just north of Quito, where you can stand on the equatorial line. It offers a blend of cultural insights and stunning views, making it a fascinating place to learn about indigenous heritage and the significance of the equator.
- Foch Square: Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Foch Square, a modern hub in Quito known for its lively nightlife, eclectic eateries, and bustling cafés. It's an ideal spot to soak up the city's urban energy and meet fellow travellers.
- Atahualpa Olympic Stadium: Explore this historic sports venue, which has hosted significant events and matches since its opening. The stadium is a testament to Ecuador's sports culture and offers a glimpse into the nation's passion for athletics.
Best time to go to Quito
The best time to visit Quito can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Quito falls in September, when visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with moderate rain. The coolest average temperature in Quito falls in March, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly cloudy with frequent rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Quito
Flying into Quito, Ecuador, is convenient via the Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO), situated 16.1km from the city centre. Nearby accommodation options include the luxurious Wyndham Quito Airport, just 966m away, offering 24-hour airport shuttle services. Swissotel Quito and Hotel Dann Carlton Quito, both 5-star hotels, are located 9-16.1km from the airport and provide various transportation services. For those considering Coca (OCC), located 169.0km from Quito, Gran Hotel De Lago El Coca is a well-rated option, offering free airport transfers, while Hotel Perla Verde is a good choice near Esmeraldas (ESM), also providing shuttle services.