Exploring Quito, Ecuador’s capital, nestled high in the Andes and known for its astonishingly well-preserved historic center, vibrant indigenous culture, and breathtaking natural surroundings, requires a thoughtfully crafted itinerary. Here’s how to make the most of three days in Quito, blending its colonial history, modern vibe, and natural beauty.
Day 1: Historic Center and Cultural Immersion
Morning:
- Plaza de la Independencia (9:00 AM – 10:30 AM)
- Begin your Quito journey in the heart of its Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The Plaza de la Independencia is surrounded by the Cathedral of Quito, the Presidential Palace, and other colonial-era buildings.
- Time Allocation: 1.5 hours
- Cost: Free
- Church of the Society of Jesus (La Compañía de Jesús) (10:45 AM – 12:00 PM)
- A short walk from the plaza, this baroque church is one of the most significant works of Spanish Colonial architecture in South America, famed for its lavish gold leaf interior.
- Time Allocation: 1.15 hours
- Cost: Approx. $5
Afternoon:
- Lunch in the Historic Center (12:15 PM – 1:30 PM)
- Enjoy Ecuadorian cuisine at a local restaurant, trying dishes like locro de papa or ceviche.
- Cost: $10-$20 per person
- San Francisco Church and Convent (2:00 PM – 3:30 PM)
- Explore this monumental religious complex that combines different architectural styles, housing impressive artwork and a serene courtyard.
- Time Allocation: 1.5 hours
- Cost: Free
- El Panecillo and the Statue of the Virgin Mary (4:00 PM – 5:30 PM)
- Head to this hilltop for panoramic views of Quito and the surrounding Andean landscape, crowned by a towering statue of the Virgin Mary.
- Time Allocation: 1.5 hours
- Cost: $2 for entrance to the viewpoint
Evening:
- Dinner in La Ronda (7:00 PM onwards)
- End your day in the lively La Ronda street, known for its traditional Ecuadorian food, music, and artisan shops. It’s the perfect place to experience Quito’s vibrant nightlife.
- Cost: $15-$30 per person
Day 2: The Middle of the World and Modern Quito
Morning:
- Mitad del Mundo (9:00 AM – 12:00 PM)
- Visit the monument marking the equatorial line, where you can stand with one foot in each hemisphere. The site also features a museum that explores the indigenous cultures of Ecuador.
- Time Allocation: 3 hours
- Cost: Approx. $5 for the monument, additional for museums
Afternoon:
- Lunch near Mitad del Mundo (12:15 PM – 1:30 PM)
- Enjoy traditional Ecuadorian dishes at a restaurant near the monument.
- Cost: $10-$20 per person
- TelefériQo (2:00 PM – 4:30 PM)
- Take a cable car ride up the Pichincha Volcano to enjoy breathtaking views of Quito and the Andes. It’s one of the best ways to see the city from above.
- Time Allocation: 2.5 hours
- Cost: Approx. $8.50
Evening:
- Dinner and Explore Plaza Foch (7:00 PM onwards)
- Spend your evening in Plaza Foch, known as the zone for nightlife in Quito. Here you’ll find a wide array of restaurants and bars to choose from.
- Cost: $15-$30 per person
Day 3: Nature and Adventure
Morning:
- Cotopaxi National Park (8:00 AM – 1:00 PM)
- Embark on a day trip to one of Ecuador’s most iconic volcanoes, Cotopaxi. The national park offers opportunities for hiking, cycling, and appreciating the stunning natural landscapes.
- Time Allocation: 5 hours (including travel time)
- Cost: Tours vary, approx. $50-$100
Afternoon:
- Lunch and Explore the Avenue of the Volcanoes (1:15 PM – 3:00 PM)
- Enjoy lunch with a view of the Avenue of the Volcanoes. There are several spots along the route where you can stop for a meal and enjoy the scenery.
- Cost: $10-$20 per person
- Pululahua Geobotanical Reserve (3:30 PM – 5:30 PM)
- Visit one of the only inhabited volcanic craters in the world, a short drive from Quito. The reserve offers unique landscapes and the opportunity to learn about the local flora and fauna.
- Time Allocation: 2 hours
- Cost: Free
Evening:
- Farewell Dinner in Quito (7:00 PM onwards)
- Conclude your visit to Quito with a dinner in one of the city’s finest restaurants, celebrating the diverse experiences and flavors you’ve encountered.
- Cost: $20-$40 per person
This itinerary offers a balanced mix of Quito’s historic, cultural, and natural attractions, ensuring a memorable and comprehensive experience of Ecuador’s capital in just three days. Enjoy your adventure!
