As the oldest South American capital that’s nestled in the foothills of a volcano and straddles the equator, Quito is pretty special.

From the Incas to Spanish conquistadors and its unique position in the centre of the globe, Ecuador’s capital is packed with UNESCO World Heritage Sites, fascinating history and views that will make your jaw drop.

The best part is, while there’s a lot to see, you only need a couple of days here to soak up the best of Quito. If that sounds pretty good to you too, then this is the blog for you. I’m sharing my tried and tested itinerary for the ultimate two day trip to Quito, including the must-see sights, most delicious food, best places to stay and inside tips along the way.

Read on from the top to get all the juicy details or use the options below to jump to the section you’re most interested in…

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1. How to get to Quito
2. How to get around Quito safely
3. When to go
4. Day 1: Swing above the city, make chocolate & explore the historic centre
5. Day 2: Straddle the equator, hike ‘the roll’ & soak up the culture
6. Best places to stay
7. What to pack & things to know before you go
8. How much you’ll spend

1. How to get to Quito

First things first, a note on how to actually get to Quito. As you can see from the map below, the city is sat on the far east side of the continent sharing borders with Colombia and Peru. While you can cross through the land borders with each of these countries, the current state of emergency in Ecuador has made this a bit more tricky as the border officials need more paperwork.

So for ease and also speed, I’d recommend flying directly into Quito international airport (Mariscal Sucre UIO). For reference, if you’re flying from neighbouring Lima, Peru like we were it only takes just over 2 hours. From Bogotá, Colombia its only 1.5 hours. Just note, the flights can get expensive so try to book as far in advance as you can to secure the best price.

2. How to get around Quito safely

You’ve no doubt read about the potential security concerns in Quito and across the country. With states of emergency and the risk of theft, it can sound pretty daunting. But there are easy and safe ways to get around the city so you can have the best time without incident. Here’s what you need to know…

Not only is the historic centre of Quito generally safe but the other major tourist spots also have a higher police presence and during our trip as a couple we felt safe and witnessed no crime or incidents. It is worth noting that after dark it can be a different story so take more precautions.

Within the small historic centre we found it safe to walk around during the day to see the best sights detailed in this blog. To get to spots further across the city and for dinner after dark, we chose to travel by Uber. Uber is much more heavily regulated and controlled and recognised as safe across the city unlike potential local taxi services. I wouldn’t recommend hailing a cab on the street but if you absolutely have to, look to check it’s an official metered taxi before you ride.

There is a public transport system but it can be pretty difficult to navigate and theft reports are much higher. To play it safe, I’d recommend either booking taxis through your accommodation or an Uber as that way you can be sure who you’re riding with. Plus, Uber is pretty affordable across the city and in two days you won’t need to take more than a few journeys.

3. Best time to visit Quito

Now you know how to get to Quito and around the city, you just have to pick the right time to go. As you can see from the table below, Ecuador’s unique position on the equator means that Quito’s average temperature hardly changes throughout the year. What does change however, is the rain!

Ecuador’s sub-tropical climate means it only has two main seasons: rainy and dry. Which is why the best time to visit is between June and August when the rainfall generally halves. We visited in October at the end of our South America travels and it was very wet with frequent downpours that made the roads pretty scary. So don’t make our mistake, travel in the summer!

Month	Average High Temperature	Average Low Temperature	Average Days of Rain
January	9°C	19°C	10
February	10°C	19°C	11
March	10°C	19°C	15
April	10°C	19°C	15
May	10°C	19°C	13
June	9°C	19°C	7
July	9°C	19°C	5
August	9°C	20°C	5
September	9°C	20°C	11
October	9°C	20°C	14
November	9°C	19°C	11
December	9°C	19°C	11

4. Day 1: Swing above the city, make chocolate & explore the historic centre

Now let’s get into your itinerary for day one of your Quito trip. As I mentioned above, there is a lot to see so this is quite a jam-packed itinerary but you can of course skip or swap bits to suit your needs.

Take TelefériQo cable car to swing above the city

Kicking off with a bang, I’d recommend starting your first day with one of the best things you can do in Quito – take the TelefériQo cable car up 1,000 metres towards the Pichincha volcano. Not only do you experience three microclimates on the way up from the Andean forest of Eucalyptus trees to native bushland and finally the Andean moor at the top, but you’ll have the chance to spot wildlife too. Hummingbirds, wolves and even the Andean condor have been spotted as you climb the foothills.

Once you arrive at the top, you’ll need a minute to admire the incredible view. Before you the grasslands give way to the sprawling city that you can really appreciate the landscape of from above. Plus, on clear days you can even see famous Cotopaxi volcano.

Along from the visitor centre you’ll find plenty of walking trails, mountain biking routes and the obligatory swings. How can you resist the rush of feeling like you’re about to swing off the edge!? I loved these and as we’d made the trip up first thing in the day, we mostly had them to ourselves. Which is why I’d definitely recommend heading to the cable car first. Plus, the weather tends to be best in the morning and clouds set in throughout the afternoon.

You could easily spend a couple of hours here wandering the trails and grabbing a coffee at the café (find the details at the end of day 1!). Just head to the cable car departure point on Vía Al Teleférico and buy your $9 return ticket to get started, it’s open every day.

Take a free walking tour of the historic centre

After surveying the city from above, head down into the historic centre to take a closer look. As one of the oldest and best preserved cities in South America, Quito’s historic centre was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its incredible Incan ruins and indigenous art.

To get the most from your time here and learn the secrets of the city, I’d recommend joining a free walking tour. Like walking tours in cities across the globe, you’ll be guided by a local expert in all things Quito who can highlight the key things to know. All they generally ask for in return is a tip so make sure you have some cash.

The best is Free Walking Tour Ecuador – their over 1,000 5 star reviews speak for themselves! They offer a morning and afternoon tour each day, all you need to do is book your free spot through their website.

Visit San Francisco Church & Plaza

Within the historic centre you’ll find the oldest and most significant religious site in Ecuador. The church and surrounding convent was built for the Order of the Franciscan Monks in 1560 and grew to become a vast complex complete with thousands of pieces of art.

Even today, it still houses Franciscan monks as well as acting as an important religious and cultural hub for the city. For a $6 ticket, you can explore the inside of the church and climb the bell tower for beautiful views. But even if you don’t fancy spending the $6 and want to save your entry fee for one of the other two churches coming up next, it’s still worth stopping by to see it from the outside.

Admire gold-covered Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesús

Just around the corner is our second church that’s almost entirely covered with 24-carat gold leaf. There’s so much gold, the interior glows and it took 160 years to complete after the first stone was laid in 1605 by Jesuit priests.

Today, you can tour the church and bask in the gold glow with a $5 ticket. If you’re lucky enough to be in town on the first Sunday of the month, you can visit for free so don’t miss out if that’s you. Also note, from the outside it may look closed with guards on the railings – it will be open, just ask one of the guards and they will happily let you in.

Marvel at Basílica del Voto Nacional

Just under 20 minutes walk away, you’ll find today’s final church and I may be saving the best until last… This is the incredible towering Basílica that’s simply a must-see – if you only want to visit one church, make it this one.

What this church doesn’t have in history since it was only completed in 1924 it makes up for in beauty. It’s one of the largest neo-gothic churches in South America complete with two 377 foot high towers, one of the most incredible stained glass windows I’ve ever seen and plenty of gargoyles, crypts and clocks.

For just $4 you can explore the main central nave, climb the clock towers for stunning views across the city, get up close to admire the stained glass and even enjoy their own craft beer.

Learn how to make your own chocolate at Yumbos

If you have time, another fun experience in the historic centre is learning to make your own chocolate and joining a chocolate tasting. The super friendly team at Yumbos walk you through the process of cacao pod to finished chocolate in their cosy space opposite San Fransisco church. Their tables look out onto the pretty square so you can sit back and even enjoy a glass of wine or two with your chocolate!

Plus, your $4 ticket includes a delicious brownie and cup of hot chocolate on the tour – does it get any better?!

Sip cocktails at sunset on Restaurante Casa Gangotena’s rooftop terrace

Round out the perfect day in Quito by heading across the square to grab a cocktail on the rooftop terrace of Casa Gangotena, the former home of one of the richest families in the city.

While the cocktails aren’t cheap and are more similar to US or European prices (menu here), if you can afford the treat, it’s well worth it for the beautiful views and high quality drinks. They also have a bar menu if you’re hungry for a light bite or a full restaurant downstairs if you really want to treat yourself!

Where to eat & drink

Cruz Loma Café $

As I mentioned earlier, there’s a great coffee stop at the top of the cable car. Enjoy a quick caffeine fix while admiring the view!

El Cafecito $

This is a cosy central breakfast and coffee spot serving simple but delicious dishes with great service. For an afternoon treat, grab one of their brownies and watch the world go by.

The Coffee Factory $

If it’s incredible barista quality coffee you’re after, head straight for family-run The Coffee Factory. Besides the brilliant coffee, they also have sweet treats and fresh tamales.

Somos Ecuador $$

When it comes to dinner, if you want to get a true taste of Ecuadorian cuisine, Somos Ecuador is the place. The stylish restaurant serves dishes fusing traditional ingredients with modern flavours for a unique twist.

Bun Bao $$

For the best Asian food in town, Bun Bao is the one. I loved their spicy Korean fried chicken, bao buns and fresh cocktails.

Lost Grill $$

For the best quality steaks cooked to perfection, head to Lost Grill. You’ll be treated to generous portions and a great atmosphere.

5. Day 2: Straddle the equator, hike ‘the roll’ & soak up the culture

My itinerary for day two is equally all about making the most of your time here. But if you’re wanting to take it easier after a full day of sightseeing, make getting to the official equator your priority.

Straddle the equator at Mitad del Mundo Monument

As I’ve mentioned, one of the special things about Quito is it’s position on the globe. Incredibly in the 1700s a French geodesic mission pinpointed the position of the equator almost perfectly (modern GPS has showed they were just 240m out) and to mark the point a monument was built by the Ecuadorian government in 1935, later replaced by the bigger one that you see here.

Today, you can visit the monument and wider site that explains the importance of the position for indigenous people and the history of the area. Within the actual monument is a small exhibit and you can climb the stairs to the top for a great view of each of the compass points around the site. It’s $5 per adult for entry and you can buy tickets on site. Again for ease, we took a taxi here which cost under $10.

There’s also lots of Ecuador inspired street art around the site and a few interesting souvenir shops you can explore as well as two cafés (more on that at the end of day 2!). Expect to spend an hour or so here appreciating the site and taking some fun photos.

Visit Museo Templo del Sol Pintor Cristobal Ortega Maila

Just a 10 minute Uber from the Mitad del Mundo Monument you’ll find the museum and gallery dedicated to the work of indigenous painter and sculptor Ortega Maila. The main Temple of the Sun (that you can see above) houses Maila’s art inspired by traditional Inca iconography and styles.

During a guided tour you’ll be able to experience the traditional style building, artworks and even have an aromatherapy experience using scent to help transport you back in time and finally a cocoa leaf tea. It’s a seriously unique spot that’s worth seeing while you’re in the north of the city so close to the equator marker.

Watch the changing of the guards at the Presidential Palace

Every Monday morning at 11am, you can watch the elaborate process of changing the guard outside Palacio de Carandolet in Plaza Grande. The President themselves oversees the procession that sees the Granaderos de Tarqui alongside drummers and cavalry form an arch with their spears while they sing the national anthem. Then the ceremonial sword is handed from the old guard to the new for the coming week.

So if you’re in Quito on a Monday, it’s well worth stopping by. Just make sure you get there a bit before 11am as they start on time and the plaza will fill up!

Explore Parque Metropolitano Guangüiltagua

In the afternoon, if you’re ready to escape the city and enjoy some time in nature, head to the largest park in town. The sprawling green space is 580 hectares and has four distinct sections: parking and a playground, a eucalyptus forest, a grassy open area, and a picnic space.

The main entrance is in the street of Guanguiltagua, which you can easily reach by Uber for a couple of dollars. From there you can follow the many hiking or mountain biking trails throughout the park that lead you to views of Cotopaxi volcano, the chance to spot hummingbirds and lots of llamas!

Plus, as there’s a heavier police presence, lots of CCTV and many park staff around, you can feel safe exploring here.

Visit El Panecillo ‘the bread roll’

Lastly, if you have time or would rather take in another incredible view point, head to the aptly named El Panecillo or ‘bread roll’ in English. This 200-metre volcanic hill does look like a little fold in the otherwise flat immediate surroundings and is marked with a statue of the Virgin Mary on the top which was made from 7,000 pieces of aluminium.

You can walk up the hill via the stairs but there have been reports of muggings and problems with stray dogs so it’s better to take a taxi directly there to admire the views of the city. You can also climb into the statue for even better views for $1.

Where to eat & drink

Café Guayasamin $

As mentioned above, there are two cafés at the Mitad del Mundo Monument. We loved this one that served fantastic coffee for a quick caffeine pick up before we headed over to the gallery.

Lavanada Café $

For tasty tostadas and lavender inspired sweet treats and drinks back in town, stop by innovative and fun Lavandada Café.

De La Llama $$

With some of the best reviews in the city, if you’re keen to taste more Ecuadorian food, De La Llama is your dinner spot. They serve incredible dishes with locally sourced ingredients and the service is brilliant. Plus, you’ll see lots of nods to their namesake, the llama!

Gyros Uio $$

Want something a bit different? Grab take out or eat in Greek food at Gyros Uio, handily positioned on the edge of Parque Metropolitano Guangüiltagua.

La Briciola $$$

For an Italian treat on your final night, you could also head to the very popular local favourite, La Briciola for an authentic taste of Italy and 5 star service.

6. Best places to stay

Budget: Viajero Quito Hostel (dorm beds for £7 per night)

This friendly hostel is set perfectly close to the historic centre with friendly staff, a beautiful garden to relax in and spacious clean dorm rooms. They do also have private rooms with shared bathrooms if you wanted more of your own space, but don’t worry you’ll still have lots of chances to meet other travellers!

Mid-range: Terra Premium Hostal Boutique (£43 per night with breakfast)

For a comfy stay in a great part of the city, choose Terra Premium. This is where we stayed and their private rooms were super spacious, the staff super friendly and the included breakfast was perfect.

Luxury: Hotel Casona 1914 (£70 per night with breakfast)

If you’re craving a little more luxury, in the heart of the historic centre near the Basílica you’ll find this beautiful hotel complete with garden, rooftop and even yoga lessons and massages. The top spot for a truly relaxing stay!

7. What to pack & things to know before you go

Now you know how you’ll be spending your two days in Quito, all you need is the right gear for the trip. Here’s a few key considerations when packing and preparing for your time in Ecuador…

Layers for changing conditions

Quito is in a pretty unique geographical location – sat on the lower slopes of Pichincha volcano which last erupted in 1666 and nestled in a narrow Andean valley. As a result, the weather can be quite unpredictable. From bright sunshine and high UV to pouring rain and chilly nights all within one day.

To adapt to the changing conditions, I’d recommend packing loose layers you can build up or down depending on the temperature and always pack a waterproof jacket. I also found a scarf handy to use as a little blanket or extra layering.

Take it easy at altitude & stay hydrated

At 2,850m, Quito is also the second highest capital city in the world (after La Paz, Bolivia). This altitude can cause you to feel a little breathless while you adjust to an atmosphere with slightly less oxygen. If you choose to take the cable car into the mountains, you might also feel this more as you gain additional elevation.

But if you’re coming from Peru or Bolivia it might actually be a welcome drop in altitude! So take your time, listen to your body and just remember to drink lots of water as hydration is one of the best ways to reduce symptoms of altitude sickness like headaches. You can also drink local cocoa tea which is believed to help too. I personally continued taking preventative altitude sickness medication, Diamox, which I bought from my travel health clinic in the UK and had been taking through Bolivia and Peru.

Disclaimer: I’m not a medical professional so please contact your doctor if you have specific concerns but this is what helped me when travelling to higher altitude destinations.

Sun protection

Because Quito is higher and on the equator, the sun can be much stronger than it feels. So make sure you wear SPF and pack a hat/cap and sunglasses while out exploring to protect against sun damage.

Leave valuables at home

While I didn’t personally witness any crime or feel threatened in the centre of town, it’s still important to note theft is a common problem in Quito. Of course take usual precautions to avoid drawing attention to yourself by not taking any unnecessary valuables like jewellery and watches on your trip if you can. Also avoid walking along looking at your phone, snatching does happen so duck into a shop or tuck away from the main plazas to check maps or send messages.

When exploring in the day, it’s always good practice to leave your passport and wallet in a locked safe where available and only take a photocopy of your passport and the cash or cards you’ll need for the day. If your accommodation doesn’t have a safe, I tend to take my passport and any valuables with me but stow what I won’t need access to in a money belt under my clothes or in an internal pocket of my rucksack which I wear at all times.

In short – just take common sense precautions and stay alert to minimise the risk and you’ll have a great time!

Don’t forget your dollars

One final thing that’s good to know is Ecuador is one of only two countries outside the US that uses US dollars (the other is Panama). So if you have some left over from a previous trip to the US, this is a great time to bring them. If not, either way it makes quick conversions and travel money a lot easier as you can pick up dollars from all over the world.

Lots of places do take card so there’s no need to carry all cash, but I’d recommend having some dollars for tips or small purchases.

8. How much you’ll spend

Lastly, you’re probably wondering how much to budget for this short and sweet trip. If we look at the average cost of accommodation, activities, food and transport for two days – as a budget traveller staying in dorms you could expect to spend as little as £70. For mid-range options and more dining out, expect to spend £150+ for two days travel.

Overall Ecuador is an affordable country that offers good value for money but many restaurants and cafés are more on a par with some European countries compared to the super cheap prices you can find in other parts of South America. But Quito is worth it!

That’s my ultimate two day itinerary for the best time exploring Quito complete. I hope you enjoy wandering the city as much as me and if you have any tips or experiences to add – please comment and let me know.

Happy travelling!

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