Cultural & Historical Destinations in Quito, Ecuador
1. Middle of the World (Mitad del Mundo)
Visit the exact equatorial line divided by markers; experience the Corridor of the World museum and monument.
- Equator Experience: Balance an egg on its end at the equator
- Cultural Exhibits: Learn about indigenous cultures and their relationship with the equator
- Souvenirs: Purchase unique 'equator crossing' souvenirs
2. Old Town (La Vieja Quito)
Explore the historic center of Quito, filled with colorful colonial buildings and charming plazas.
- Architecture: Admire beautifully preserved colonial architecture
- Churches: Visit historic churches like San Francisco and La Compania de Jesus
- Cafes & Restaurants: Savor traditional Ecuadorian cuisine at local eateries
3. Equatorial Monument (Monumento a la Mitad del Mundo)
Discover the unique structure marking the equator at an altitude of 2,500 meters above sea level.
- Photo Opportunity: Take a memorable photo with one foot in each hemisphere
- Cultural Performances: Watch indigenous dances and musical performances
- Gift Shop: Pick up souvenirs related to the equatorial monument
4. Panecillo (El Panecillo)
Marvel at the statue of the Virgin Mary on top of a hill overlooking Quito and enjoy panoramic city views.
- Virgin of Quito Statue: Admire one of the largest statues in South America
- City Views: Capture stunning panoramic photos of Quito and its surroundings
- Museum: Visit the Museum of the Sun (Inti Ñán) for an in-depth look at pre-Columbian culture
5. Church of San Augustin
Discover the largest church in Quito, featuring a magnificent baroque facade and intricate gold-plated altarpieces.
- Baroque Architecture: Admire the unique and ornate baroque architecture
- Gold-Plated Altar Pieces: Witness the stunning gold-plated altar pieces
- Guided Tours: Join a guided tour to learn about its rich history and religious significance
6. Church of La Compañía de Jesús
Experience the stunning gold-plated interiors and intricate wood carvings within this magnificent baroque church.
- Gold Plating: Marvel at the golden altarpieces and ornate decorations
- Wood Carvings: Be amazed by intricate wooden carvings throughout the church
- Guided Tours: Join a guided tour to learn about its history and significance
7. Equatorial Museum (Museo del Equilibrio)
Discover the mysteries of the equator at this museum that offers interactive exhibits and engaging activities.
- Interactive Exhibits: Learn about the equator through interactive displays
- Educational Activities: Participate in hands-on activities like the egg balancing demonstration
- Guided Tours: Join a guided tour to learn about the scientific significance of the equator
8. Inti Ñán Museum (Museo Inti Ñán)
Discover the ancient culture and history of the Inca civilization at this interactive museum located on El Panecillo.
- Incan Culture: Learn about the Incan civilization and its cultural practices
- Interactive Exhibits: Experience the recreations of ancient Incan dwellings
- Guided Tours: Join a guided tour to get an in-depth look at the museum's exhibits
9. San Francisco Church and School of Music
Visit the beautiful San Francisco church and enjoy a concert at the renowned School of Music.
- Baroque Architecture: Admire the ornate baroque architecture of the church
- School of Music Concerts: Attend a concert featuring local and international musicians
- Guided Tours: Join a guided tour to learn about the church's history and music program
10. San Francisco Plaza
Relax in this charming plaza surrounded by historic buildings and grab a bite at one of the local eateries.
- Historic Architecture: Admire the well-preserved colonial buildings surrounding the plaza
- Local Eateries: Savor traditional Ecuadorian cuisine at local eateries nearby
- Local Artisans: Shop for unique handmade crafts from local artisans
11. San Juan Church (Iglesia de San Juan)
Marvel at the intricate wood carvings and beautiful façade of this Baroque-style church.
- Wood Carvings: Be amazed by the intricate wooden carvings throughout the church
- Baroque Architecture: Admire the ornate baroque architecture of the church
- Guided Tours: Join a guided tour to learn about its rich history and religious significance
12. San Marcos Church (Iglesia de San Marcos)
Discover this beautiful church featuring a stunning baroque façade and intricate gold-plated altarpieces.
- Baroque Architecture: Admire the unique and ornate baroque architecture
- Gold-Plated Altar Pieces: Witness the stunning gold-plated altar pieces
- Guided Tours: Join a guided tour to learn about its rich history and religious significance
13. El Sagrario Church (Iglesia El Sagrario)
Marvel at the stunning Baroque-style church with its unique twin towers and ornate interior.
- Twin Towers: Admire the distinctive twin towers of the church
- Baroque Architecture: Admire the ornate baroque architecture of the church
- Guided Tours: Join a guided tour to learn about its rich history and religious significance
14. San Sebastián Church (Iglesia de San Sebastián)
Discover this beautiful church featuring a stunning baroque façade and intricate gold-plated altarpieces.
- Baroque Architecture: Admire the unique and ornate baroque architecture
- Gold-Plated Altar Pieces: Witness the stunning gold-plated altar pieces
- Guided Tours: Join a guided tour to learn about its rich history and religious significance
15. El Carmen Church (Iglesia El Carmen)
Marvel at the stunning baroque church with intricate wood carvings and beautiful frescoes.
- Wood Carvings: Be amazed by the intricate wooden carvings throughout the church
- Baroque Architecture: Admire the ornate baroque architecture of the church
- Guided Tours: Join a guided tour to learn about its rich history and religious significance