What to do in Quito

Activities, attractions and tours

A cityscape with a prominent hill in the background.
A cobblestone street lined with buildings, a group of people walking, and a mountain in the background.
A courtyard with a central fountain, white arches, and a domed building in the background.
A modern building with a sports bar and restaurant named 'Ploit'.
A densely packed hillside town with colorful buildings and a prominent red and white structure in the background.

Places to Visit in Quito

Ready for the adventure of a lifetime? Let Expedia.co.nz help you find the most exciting and fun things to do in Quito, Pichincha while also allowing you to save a ton on travel arrangements. Regardless of whether you’re an urban explorer or an intrepid outdoor enthusiast, we can help you decide exactly what to do and see during your time in town.

Our thorough travel guides offer you an insider’s perspective on all of the best Quito attractions from , making it easy for you to decide which places to visit and when. And by using Expedia.co.nz to set your sightseeing schedule, you can take in more of the enchanting attractions this area is famous for.

From group Quito tours and must-see landmarks to personal guides who take you off-the-beaten track, Expedia.co.nz offers you over of the most popular events, activities, and attractions in this corner of the world. So whether you’re travelling alone, alongside a loved one, or with the whole family in tow, be sure to browse through our extensive travel guides prior to your plane touching down in this spectacular Quito. We even have a massive selection of flights, car hires, and accommodation for you to choose from. So what are you waiting for? Start your search today, and you’ll be having the time of your life before you know it.

Activities


  • find price illustration

    Explore activities

    Explore thousands of experiences from activities and attractions to day tours and transfer.
  • calendar shield illustration

    Book with ease

    Skip the line- book tickets online in minutes to top attractions with free cancellation on many activities.
  • trophy illustration

    Treat yourself

    Members save % or more when you book activities.

Top places to visit

1. Monument to the Equator

Although Quito is not the only city lying on the equator, its Mitad del Mundo (Middle of the World) Monument reminds us that it is certainly the most famous. This monument marks the spot where a French explorer calculated the line of the equator in 1736, splitting the city between the earth’s two hemispheres. Take this unique opportunity to visit the 30-metre (98-foot) monument and stand with one foot in either half of the world.
Learn more
A monument with a spherical top, surrounded by a circular garden with a star-shaped design, and a mountainous backdrop.

2. La Mariscal Craft Market

Peruse intriguing handicrafts and see artisans at work while you browse the stalls of the Mercado Artesanal La Mariscal (La Mariscal Craft Market). Shop for anything from clothing and jewelry to art, children’s toys and textiles. Over 100 stall holders ply their trade in the animated Mercado Artesanal La Mariscal, one of Quito’s best markets for crafts and souvenirs.
Learn more
A shop with a variety of black and white pottery and decorative items on display.

3. Catedral Metropolitana de Quito

Explore the Metropolitan Cathedral of Quito (Catedral Metropolitana de Quito) to experience the religious, political and artistic heritage of the city. This 16th-century cathedral is one of the city’s oldest and mixes a number of architectural styles. Admire an eclectic combination of Gothic-Mudéjar (Moorish), Baroque and neoclassical designs. Since the 16th century, the cathedral has survived major earthquakes in 1660 and 1797. Its diverse styles are due to the reconstructions that followed these damaging years.
Learn more
An ornate church interior with rows of pews, a large organ, and intricate ceiling artwork.

4. Foch Square

Experience the wide-ranging and energetic nightlife of Quito amid the bright lights of the vivacious Plaza Foch (Foch Square). Once a rundown intersection in the Mariscal district, today this entertainment square is the beating heart of Quito’s nightlife scene. It’s where locals and tourists alike come to eat, drink, dance and mingle in the bars, restaurants and nightclubs. Plaza Foch is also the setting for live music events and a weekly artisan market.
Learn more
A colorful building with vibrant murals and a sign reading "La Carniceria".

5. Independence Square

Venture into the civic heart of Quito with a visit to Independence Square (Plaza de la Independencia, also known as Plaza Grande). This iconic square is a popular meeting place and is surrounded by such landmarks as the Metropolitan Cathedral of Quito, Carondelet Palace (the presidential palace), the Municipal Palace and the Archbishop’s Palace.
Learn more
A monument with a statue, surrounded by buildings and palm trees.

Recommended things to do in Quito

Number of things to do
Cheapest thing to do on Expedia
:
Top 5 things to do
Half-day tours
With kids

What to do in Quito


Stay near popular Quito attractions

Our guide on where to stay in Quito

Find the best Quito areas for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Quito
Learn more about Quito

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.

Centro Histórico

While you're in Centro Histórico, take in top sights like Church of the Society of Jesus and jump on the metro at San Francisco Station to see more of the city.

La Carolina

Travellers choose La Carolina for its abundant dining options. Hop aboard the metro at Carolina Station or Iñaquito Station and check out top sights like El Jardin Mall.

Guapulo

Guapulo is noteworthy for its restaurants, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Sanctuary of El Guápulo and Statue of Francisco de Orellana.

Bellavista

You'll enjoy the restaurants and museums in Bellavista. You might want to make time for a stop at Atahualpa Olympic Stadium or Guangüiltagua Metropolitan Park.


 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 


 

Day trip destinations from Quito

Frequently asked questions

Is Quito worth visiting?
Providing a blend of culture and nature, there are plenty of things to do in Quito. While you're here, check out TelefériQo Base Station, a must-see attraction in the area.
How do I spend a day in Quito?
Start your adventures with a visit to Calle La Ronda and Carondelet Palace. Then, tour different parts of Quito for a bite to eat and some retail therapy.
What is the top tourist attraction in Quito?
The top tourist attraction in Quito is TelefériQo Base Station, so make sure to put it on your agenda.
Is three days enough to stay in Quito?
Three days in Quito is more than enough to visit the city's leading attractions. Many travellers stay for two days on average. TelefériQo Base Station, Calle La Ronda and Carondelet Palace are among the most popular sights. Like to see more? Hang around a little longer to check off nearby hotspots like Tababela.
Is Quito a walkable city?
Some top sights in Quito, including TelefériQo Base Station and Calle La Ronda, are within walking distance. You can also visit several of the city's popular neighbourhoods on foot. Just 0.64 kilometres from the city centre of Quito is La Carolina and Centro Histórico is 5 kilometres away.
What are some activities to do in Quito with kids?
Deciding what to do in Quito with kids has never been simpler. Whether you're taking a trip with little ones or teenagers, there are lots of family-friendly attractions to keep them entertained here.
What to do in Quito for adults?
Whether you're a culture enthusiast, food connoisseur or outdoor explorer, there are plenty of things to do in Quito for adults including Parque Bicentenario and Government Platform for Social Development.
Are there free things to do in Quito?
From relaxing in parks to strolling around hip neighbourhoods, it's simple to find free things to do in Quito. If you're looking for inspiration, ask a local tour guide for recommendations. Calle La Ronda is a must for anyone wanting to save on their sightseeing adventures.

Explore a world of travel with Expedia