Alright, let’s ditch the travel brochure vibe and get real about Quito. This city? It’s wild—a mashup of old-school charm, mountain drama, and a dash of chaos that just works. Sitting way up in the Andes (seriously, like “catch your breath” high), Quito’s got UNESCO bragging rights and a pulse you won’t find anywhere else. Whether you’re geeking out over history or chasing adrenaline, you’ll find your fix here. So, here’s my totally unfiltered take on the best things to do in Quito—no sugar-coating, just the good stuff. Best Things to Do in Quito: Culture & Adventure.
1. Get Lost in the Old Town
If you’re into crumbling churches and alleyways that look like movie sets, Quito’s historic center is basically heaven. Plaza Grande’s the heartbeat—think grand old buildings and people-watching for days. Pop into La Compañía de Jesús (the one dripping gold inside—no big deal), then wander over to San Francisco Church, which is so old it probably remembers when llamas ruled the streets. Snap pics, soak in the vibes, and pretend you’re living in a telenovela.
2. Scale the Basilica del Voto Nacional
This neo-Gothic beast pretty much photobombs every skyline shot of Quito. The fun part? You can actually climb up (and, uh, pray for your life on those ladders) for city views that’ll blow up your Insta. Oh, and check out the gargoyles—they’re not your usual creepy dudes, but actual Ecuadorian animals. Yes, there’s a turtle sticking out of the stonework. You can’t make this stuff up.
3. Straddle the Equator (Mitad del Mundo)
Wanna do that thing where you’re in both hemispheres at once? There’s a monument for that. It’s kind of touristy, but hey, when else are you gonna stand with one leg in the north and one in the south? Swing by the Intiñan Museum next door for all the trippy science tricks and Ecuadorian culture lessons—plus, it’s less crowded.
Best Things to Do in Bruges: Chocolate & Culture
4. Ride the TelefériQo (Don’t Look Down)
Okay, so you hop on this cable car and it yanks you up the side of Volcán Pichincha. We’re talking 4,000 meters high, so bring a jacket (and maybe a prayer). At the top: pure Andes magic—epic views, hiking trails, random llamas, and if you’re feeling wild, you can even rent a horse. Just watch out for the altitude… it hits hard.
5. Museum Hop Like a Boss
Quito’s got museums for every flavor. Museo del Carmen Alto is all about nuns and colonial vibes. Casa del Alabado? That’s your spot for ancient pre-Columbian treasures (think: Indiana Jones, minus the danger). If you want the whole Ecuador download, hit the National Museum. Spoiler: there’s more to this country than just bananas and beautiful scenery.
6. Stroll Down La Ronda
La Ronda is where you go when you want to eat, drink, and dance with locals. Cobbled streets, music spilling out of doorways, and enough food stalls to put your diet on hold. Swing by after dark—the street performers come out, and it turns into a low-key party. If you leave sober, you did it wrong.
7. Nature Hits Just Outside the City
Bored of buildings? Quito’s surrounded by pure Andean insanity. Cotopaxi National Park is a short trip, with a snow-capped volcano that’ll make your jaw drop (and maybe your phone if you’re clumsy). Or check out Pululahua, where people literally live inside a volcanic crater. Wanna hike, bike, or try horseback riding? You’ll find your playground here.
8. Eat Like a Local
Dude, don’t leave without trying locro de papa—it’s basically potato soup on steroids (cheese, avocado, sometimes popcorn… trust me). Empanadas de viento are these puffy, cheesy pastries that might ruin all other empanadas for you. Oh, and when it gets chilly, grab a canelazo—a hot boozy drink that sneaks up on you, especially at altitude.
9. Dive Into the Markets
Mercado Central is where you go for the real-deal eats—giant avocados, mystery fruits, and local dishes you can’t pronounce. Wanna shop? Take a quick trip to Otavalo Market (yeah, it’s famous for a reason): think rainbow-colored textiles, crafts, and enough souvenirs to fill a suitcase (or two).
10. Quito After Dark
Once the sun dips, head to La Mariscal (Plaza Foch if you wanna get specific). The bars and clubs crank up, live music spills into the street, and you can bounce from salsa joints to hipster cocktail bars without missing a beat. Honestly, it’s a little wild, but isn’t that the point?
So, yeah—Quito’s not just a pit stop on your way to the Galápagos. It’s a city with grit, glam, and a whole lotta soul. Lace up your sneakers, charge your phone, and dive in—you’ll be talking about this place for years. Best Things to Do in Quito: Culture & Adventure.
Discover Lhasa: A Complete Travel Guide to the Heart of Tibet