With 3 days in Quito, you'll have time to experience the city's highlights. Beyond the postcard-perfect plazas, Quito pulses with a modern energy. The vibrant neighborhood of La Floresta buzzes with art galleries and hip cafes, while the historic Calle La Ronda comes alive at night with traditional music and canelazo.
Why Visit Quito
Straddle Two Hemispheres: Visit the Ciudad Mitad del Mundo complex to stand on the equatorial line. See water drain in different directions, balance an egg on a nail, and visit the excellent Intiñan Solar Museum for interactive experiments you can't do anywhere else on Earth.
Ride to Rooftop of the City: Take the TelefériQo cable car up the side of Volcán Pichincha to Cruz Loma at 4,100 meters. The views over the entire city and surrounding volcanoes are staggering, and you can hike further along ridges for even more dramatic perspectives.
Indulge in a Unique Food Scene: Quito's high-altitude cuisine is a delight. Savor fresh ceviche in a mercado, warm up with locro de papa (potato soup), try crispy fried cuy (guinea pig) for the adventurous, and don't miss the sweet, anise-flavored canelazo drink on Calle La Ronda.
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Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival & First Impressions
Start your Quito adventure by getting your bearings and exploring the city's most iconic landmarks. Take time to soak in the atmosphere and discover why this destination captures the hearts of millions.
Plaza de la Independencia
Experience Plaza de la Independencia, one of Quito's beloved attractions that offers a unique glimpse into Ecuador's culture and heritage.
💡 Tip: Check opening hours online and consider booking in advance during peak season.
Basílica del Voto Nacional
Experience Basílica del Voto Nacional, one of Quito's beloved attractions that offers a unique glimpse into Ecuador's culture and heritage.
💡 Tip: Check opening hours online and consider booking in advance during peak season.
Day 2: Local Life & Neighborhoods
Experience Quito like a local today. Wander through authentic neighborhoods, discover hidden cafes, and get a taste of everyday life in Ecuador.
La Compañía Church
Experience La Compañía Church, one of Quito's beloved attractions that offers a unique glimpse into Ecuador's culture and heritage.
💡 Tip: Check opening hours online and consider booking in advance during peak season.
TelefériQo Cable Car
Experience TelefériQo Cable Car, one of Quito's beloved attractions that offers a unique glimpse into Ecuador's culture and heritage.
💡 Tip: Check opening hours online and consider booking in advance during peak season.
Day 3: Bonus Discoveries & Departure
Before you leave, squeeze in a few more Quito experiences. Even a morning can hold wonderful discoveries in this city.
Mitad del Mundo
Experience Mitad del Mundo, one of Quito's beloved attractions that offers a unique glimpse into Ecuador's culture and heritage.
💡 Tip: Check opening hours online and consider booking in advance during peak season.
Calle La Ronda
Experience Calle La Ronda, one of Quito's beloved attractions that offers a unique glimpse into Ecuador's culture and heritage.
💡 Tip: Check opening hours online and consider booking in advance during peak season.
Ready to explore Quito?
Travel Tips
- 1Book accommodation in the city center for easy access to attractions. Quito is very walkable for a short trip.
- 2The best time to visit Quito is June to September. Shoulder seasons offer fewer crowds and pleasant weather.
- 3The local currency is US Dollar (USD). Carry some cash for small vendors and markets.
- 4A few words in Spanish go a long way with locals. Even "please" and "thank you" will earn smiles.
- 5Download offline maps and translation apps before your trip. WiFi can be spotty in historic areas.
- 63 days is ideal for the main highlights. Prioritize what matters most to you.
Must-Try Food in Quito
💡 The weather can change in an instant. Always carry a light jacket or sweater, even on sunny days, as temperatures drop quickly, especially after sunset.
Book Activities in Quito
Skip the line with pre-booked tours and attractions
Neighborhoods to Explore in Quito
Centro Histórico (Old Town)
The heart and soul of Quito, this UNESCO World Heritage site is a labyrinth of steep, cobblestone streets lined with magnificent Spanish colonial and Baroque architecture.
La Mariscal (Gringolandia)
The city's primary tourist and nightlife district, known for its grid of streets filled with hostels, bars, restaurants, travel agencies, and souvenir shops.
La Floresta
A trendy, bohemian neighborhood known as Quito's cultural and artistic quarter.
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