The Best Things to Do in Quito, Ecuador: 3 Day Itinerary

Last updated on June 9th, 2024 at 04:24 pm

Quito, Ecuador’s capital city, is nestled in the Andes mountains, surrounded by many volcanic peaks at a breathtaking altitude of roughly 2800m (9300 ft). I spent two months living and teaching yoga at a hostel in Quito’s old town. During that time, I discovered the best things to do in Quito, such as exploring the various neighborhoods, shops, and activities the city has to offer. But I also learned that most visitors only spend 3 days in Quito before heading over to explore the Galapagos Islands or moving on their way to Colombia or Peru.

So, while two months may be too long for most people to spend in Quito, I’ve compiled some of the best activities you can do with three days to make the most of your visit!

This post contains affiliate links, which means that, at no additional cost to you, I will earn a tiny bit of income if you decide to click and make a purchase and booking. 

 

Ecuador travel resources

• Book your flight to Ecuador with Omio
• Get reliable travel insurance with World Nomads
• Find awesome accommodation with booking.com or Hostelworld
• Want to add guided tours to your itinerary? Here are the top 10 tours in Ecuador
• The best budget-friendly Galapagos Islands itinerary
• Get the essentials for trip to Ecuador here: my favorite waterproof booties, this power bank to stay connected, and a reusable water bottle

A Few Fun Facts About Quito

• Quito is the capital of Ecuador and the second-highest capital city in Latin America and the world! La Paz in Bolivia is the first. Three days may not be long enough to acclimatize to the altitude (it affects everyone differently). Therefore, I don’t recommend scheduling any strenuous activities, like hiking, as most people won’t be ready for it! Seriously, after two months of living there, I still got breathless walking up the stairs in the hostel.
• Quito is a UNESCO World Heritage Site thanks to its beautifully preserved old town.
• Ecuador’s currency is the USD, which was troublesome for Ecuador’s economy for many years as they made the switch.
• Several volcanoes can be viewed from certain viewpoints in Quito, but the two most “popular” and still active are Pichincha and Cotopaxi. You can hike to the summit of Rucu Pichincha in a day or take a day trip to Cotopaxi to hike to the refuge and mountain bike back down.

A Guide to Quito’s Neighborhoods

Old Town

Quito’s Old Town is called El Centro Historico (Historic Center). It is famous for its colonial buildings, old churches, and plazas. Plaza Grande, also referred to as Plaza de la Independencia, is the heart of Old Town. This plaza is surrounded by the Presidential Palace, the Metropolitan Cathedral of Quito, the Archbishop’s Palace, and the Municipal Palace. 

Beyond the plaza is the La Ronda neighborhood, known for its nightlife!

At the southern end of Old Town is Virgin del Panecillo, a large culture of a winged Virgin overlooking Quito.

While not the safest area in Quito, it is still a good place to stay as a base for exploration. I stayed here for two months and had no problems.

New Town

North of Old Town, between Parque el Ejido and Parque La Carolina, is New Town. This modern, upscale area of Quito has great hotels, shopping, and nightlife. Parque La Carolina is a gorgeous park with the Botanical Garden of Quito.

Part of New Town is called La Mariscal where you’ll find the best nightlife in Quito. In Plaza Foch, you’ll find breweries, bars, clubs, restaurants, and cafes. 

Also, visit La Mariscal Mercado Artesanal La Mariscal, a market where you can find great souvenirs. Vendors sell Ecuadorian textiles, jewelry, and other traditional items.

La Mariscal is a great place to stay if you want to be near the buzzing nightlife. It’s also a safer area compared to Old Town.

La Floresta

La Floresta is a beautiful and bohemian neighborhood on the eastern side of Quito. This area is often described as Quito’s artistic heart, as you’ll see from the colorful murals, art installations, and independent art galleries. La Floresta also beautifully combines colonial architecture with more modern buildings, adding to its eclectic charm.

There are also great places to eat in La Floresta, like Café Mosaico, which offer sweeping views of the city! You can check out the museum and former home of famed Ecuadorian artist Guaysamin, La Capilla del Hombre. Admittedly, I didn’t visit the museum, but I heard great reviews!

La Floresta is a welcoming and safe neighborhood making it a great place to stay as a solo female traveler. This is the neighborhood where I thought, “If I were to live here, this is where I’d live.”

Solo Female Traveler Safety Tips for Quito

While I felt mostly safe in Quito, I highly recommend following my top solo female travel safety tips when in Quito. Once outside the Central Market, I pulled out my phone to look for directions. A kind lady passing by told me to put my phone away. I wasn’t in the safest area and was making myself a target for a quick cell phone snatch. Here are some essential safety tips for solo travelers exploring Quito

Be Mindful of Your Belongings

Theft is the main concern when visiting Quito. However, the thing about theft in Quito is that thieves don’t necessarily target tourists; they target clueless people. The people who put their belongings in the overhead storage on buses or have their phones on the street. So, to avoid becoming a target, keep your bag zipped and perhaps in front of your body, especially in Plaza Grande and on buses. Keep your phone out of sight when walking the streets.

Use Reliable Transportation

Always use registered taxis and ensure the driver puts on the meter. Uber is also a great option here, and I used it more often than taxis. Buses are reliable, but keep an extra eye on your belongings when crowded. Never put your items in the overhead compartment or underneath your seat. A few travelers in the hostel where I stayed did this and their items were quickly stolen. 

Stay in a Centrally Located Area

I already covered the main neighborhoods in Quito, and later in this post, I’ll share a few of the best places to stay in each of those areas. Staying in Old Town, La Mariscal, or La Floresta allows for good access to amenities, transportation, and proximity to the fun things to do in Quito. I highly recommend staying in a hostel as a solo traveler so you can join people for nights out or walks around the city.

Altitude Awareness

Often, the biggest safety concern when traveling is staying healthy. Altitude sickness is a very real concern at Quito’s high altitude. Take it easy during your first few days to acclimate, stay hydrated, and avoid alcohol, which makes altitude issues worse.

Stay Hydrated

Speaking of health, the water in Quito is not potable. Stick with filtered or bottled water to avoid stomach issues. In my last two weeks there, I got relaxed with this and started brushing my teeth with sink water, and I struggled with diarrhea and vomiting until I left for Peru. 

Join Guided Tours

Joining guided tours for major tourist attractions like Mitad del Mundo or Cotopaxi National Park allows you to meet new people while offering insights into Ecuadorian Culture. I also recommend taking a free walking tour of Quito on your first day to help orient yourself and gain insight into areas to avoid. 

Stay Alert and Trust Your Instincts

The most important tip is to stay aware of your surroundings and trust yourself. Always be aware of what’s happening around you, avoid being in deserted areas alone at night, and be cautious about sharing your travel plans. If something feels off or you feel uncomfortable, remove yourself from the situation and move to a safer place. 

Quito, Ecuador Packing List

When packing for your adventure in Quito, it’s essential to consider the city’s diverse climate, high altitude, and various activities you may enjoy. In a separate post, I dive deep into what to pack for Ecuador, including the Galapagos Islands. Here’s an overview of essential items to pack for Quito: 

Layers: Quito’s weather can be unpredictable due to its high altitude. Pack lightweight, breathable layers you can easily add or remove throughout the day as temperatures fluctuate.

Warm Clothing: Even though Quito is near the equator, it can get chilly, especially in the evenings and at higher elevations. Bring a sweater or jacket to stay warm.

Rain Gear: Be prepared for sudden rain showers, especially during the wet season (October to May). Bring a compact umbrella or a waterproof jacket to stay dry.

Comfortable Walking Shoes: Quito’s cobblestone streets and hilly terrain make comfortable walking shoes essential for exploring the city. Opt for sturdy footwear with good traction. Blundstones would be great for Quito. I’m also loving these Nikes right now!

Sun Protection: The sun’s UV rays are stronger at high altitudes. Pack sunscreen with a high SPF, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat to protect yourself from sunburn. I love Supergoop! for my face and SunBum for my body.

Altitude Sickness Remedies: Quito’s altitude (approximately 9,350 feet or 2,850 meters) may affect some travelers. Stay hydrated, limit alcohol intake, and take it easy until you know how the altitude will affect you.

Reusable Water Bottle: Bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated at high altitudes. I don’t recommend drinking the tap water, but most places have filtered water you can use to refill your water bottle. I love this new lightweight Hydro Flask!

Travel Adapter: Ecuador uses Type A and Type B electrical outlets (110 volts), so be sure to pack a travel adapter. I use this universal travel adapter.

Daypack: A small daypack is handy for carrying essentials during day trips and excursions, such as water, snacks, a camera, and a guidebook.

Spanish Phrasebook or Translator App: While many locals in Quito speak some English, knowing basic Spanish phrases can enhance your travel experience and help you communicate more effectively. Google translate saved me a few times!

Travel Insurance: For peace of mind during your trip, consider purchasing travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost or stolen belongings. I use World Nomads or Safety Wing depending on the cost for the length of my trip.

Camera or Smartphone: Capture memories of your Quito adventure with a camera or smartphone to document the city’s stunning landscapes, historic sites, and vibrant culture. Don’t forget a portable charger to keep everything charged! I use this one!

Remember to pack light and only bring what you need for your trip to Quito. You’ll want space for souvenirs! 

You can shop my Ecuador packing list in one place over on Amazon!

How to Spend 3 Days in Quito, Ecuador

This Quito itinerary shares how to see all of the top attractions in Quito as well as the best day trip options to add to your itinerary! Ready? Let’s go!

Quito Itinerary: Day 1

Eat at Mercado Central

Rise early and head to Mercado Central for breakfast. This market opens around 5:00 a.m. (although you definitely don’t have to get there at 5:00 a.m.) and is where you can find numerous stalls for fresh fruit and veggies, plus butchers, cheese shops, grains, and even roses.

Did you know that one in every three roses bought in the USA are exported from Ecuador? Ecuador roses are considered the best worldwide and they’re sold in a number of stalls in Mercado Central, for much cheaper than the bouquet you’d buy at home.

Food to try at Mercado Central

I highly recommend getting the Llapingachos (two eggs, sausage, avocado, potato patties)  with a smoothie. Just be warned, ask for your smoothie without sugar “sin azucar.” They like to load most things up with sugar here!

Two other options for food at the market are Corvina (fried fish with potatoes and ceviche) and Encebollado (fish soup – hangover cure…supposedly). But also pick up some amazing fruit – try the mangos, passionfruit, and avocados!

Take a Free Walking Tour

After you’ve eaten your fill take a free walking tour with free walking tour Ecuador. The tour departs at 10:30 am and 2:30 pm Monday to Saturday and starts just down the street from Mercado Central at Community Hostel.

The tour will take you through Quito’s Old Town, describing buildings of significance such as the Compañíia de Jesus church. This is one of the most beautiful churches I’ve ever seen. It is absolutely laden with gold on the inside. But they don’t allow photos so you’ll have to see for yourself!

Eat Lunch at a Local Spot Recommended by Your Guide

Ask your tour guide for a lunch recommendation at a local spot. Lunch will cost about $5, and you’ll receive soup, a main dish with meat and rice, and a drink. It’s definitely a difficult place for vegetarians, as they’ll assume you can eat chicken. So say, “No carne y no pollo, solo vegetables”, and hopefully, you’ll get your point across.

If you’re looking for a more upscale spot to eat, check out La Purisma near Plaza Chica.

Climb the Towers at Basílica del Voto Nacional

Basílica del Voto Nacional dominates the skyline of Quito. You can see its impressive towers from various vantage points in the city. In the afternoon, burn off your lunch by walking up the stairs and testing your fear of heights on Basílica del Voto Nacional ladders as you climb the ladders to the towers. 

There is an admission fee of $2 to enter the church ($2) and a second fee to climb the towers ($2). If you’re not entering the church, only pay the fee to climb the towers!

Buy your ticket from a window near the bathrooms, and you’ll start climbing up a number of flights of stairs until you reach a beautiful stained-glass window. Then you’ll walk along a wooden plank where below are the church pews (don’t worry, you can’t see them). Then, climb up the ladder to the outside. From here it’s a rickety spiral staircase to the top of the tower. I almost didn’t go up out of fear, but I’m so glad an older lady told me just to do it. The views from the top are incredible!

Eat Dinner from the Food Trucks at La Pradera Food Garden

I stumbled upon this outdoor food truck plaza after a wander in La Floresta. I returned the next night with a few new hostel friends to celebrate a birthday. There are a number of food trucks that sell local food, vegetarian options, pizza and ice cream! There are plenty of tables to choose from and a bar for drinks. It’s a good spot to try a few things or share a meal with new friends!

Go Salsa Dancing

In the evening, get your salsa dancing on at Salsateca Lavoe. Located on the northern end of the city, this is where you can witness some professional-level salsa dancing. Even though many of the people who come here are really good, don’t worry if you’re not. You can still take a spin on the dance floor with someone who knows what they’re doing. Or get out there and dance like no one’s watching!

Quito Itinerary: Day 2

Breakfast at En Dulce

So, if you opted to go out last night, you probably slept in a bit. Whenever you roll out of bed head for breakfast at En Dulce. This tiny cafe in Old Town has great breakfast options and large windows where you can watch the bakers bake up some tasty treats.

Ride the Telefériqo

After you’re nice and full take a taxi to the Teleferiqo. This cable car ride brings you to the starting point for a popular hike up to the active Pichincha volcano. But don’t worry, you don’t need to hike it to take in the sweeping views of Quito below. From here you’ll really get an appreciation for how long and skinny this city is. On a clear day, you may even be able to see Cotopaxi.

Since I lived in Quito, they’ve added a swing at the top…go get your gram on!

The taxi ride should cost at most $5.00 and the cable car costs $8.50. Make sure to have the taxi driver turn on his meter!

Explore La Ronda & Learn About Chocolate at Chez Tiff

In the afternoon head to La Ronda – a charming area of the city with narrow pedestrian paths, plenty of restaurants, and shops. This is a great place to visit at night as well to drink, dine, and dance, but I’m sending you in the afternoon to check out a popular chocolate shop called Chez Tiff.

Chez Tiff is the product of a Swiss and Ecuadorian love, which resulted in this beautiful chocolate experience. They hold demonstrations that show the process of making chocolate all the way from cacao bean (which you can taste) to the various forms of white to dark chocolate that we enjoy around the world.

Honestly, I am unsure of what times these demonstrations are held. A friend and I wandered in one afternoon and there was a gentleman working who only spoke Swiss and Spanish. We asked for a demonstration which he obliged for the two of us and he gave it to us in Spanish. It was such a great experience even if I only understood half of what he explained. I returned here many times to pick up a mid-afternoon sweet treat.

Visit the Madonna on the Panecillo

From La Ronda, hop in a taxi to take you up to the Panecillo. I wouldn’t recommend walking as it’s not the safest part of Quito. Once at the Panecillo, you can climb to the base of the Madonna and witness another great vantage point for Quito. This is a great place to watch the sunset in Quito.

La Ronda at Night

After the sunset, grab another taxi to take you back to La Ronda where you can witness the change of environment from afternoon to evening. Dine at any of the restaurants or even try Cuy. The evenings in Quito can get chilly so try a traditional drink called Canelazo to warm you up. It’s a rum drink. And it’s delicious.

Quito Itinerary: Day 3

During your first two days in Quito, you saw quite a bit of the city, so on your third day, I’m going to suggest escaping the bustle of Quito and taking a day trip! There are a number of excellent day trips from Quito that will give you a glimpse into the varied landscape and Ecuadorian life outside of the city.

Day Trip to Mitad del Mundo

One of the top tourist attractions in Quito is Mitad del Mundo, aka the Middle of the World! Hire a taxi to take you to La Ofelia bus station and find signs for Ciudad Mitad del Mundo. Hop in line and pay $1.00 for the ride. It will drop you off in front of Mitad del Mundo. It costs $5.00 to enter the monument.

If you’re short on time, I’d recommend an organized day trip because the bus took us 2 hours to get there whereas it should really only take 40 minutes by car.

Book your guided tour to Mitad del Mundo here.

Day Trip to Mindo Cloud Forest

For a bit more of an escape from Quito and a real change of scenery head two hours to Mindo and explore Ecuador’s cloud forest. Mindo is absolutely stunning and a great place for adventure activities such as tubing or more relaxed activities like chocolate tasting. But, I recommend spending a day hiking the waterfalls of Mindo!

To get to Mindo by public bus, head to La Ofelia bus station. There are three companies that take you to the town of Mindo starting at 6:30 am. When you arrive in Mindo, check the return times, purchase your ticket, and then hire a taxi to drive you to the cable car that will take you across the cloud forest at the start of the waterfall hike. There are about 6 waterfalls you can hike to, one that you can jump 20 ft into, and many you can swim in – so be sure to wear a swimsuit and pack a change of clothes!

The hike should take around 3-4 hours depending on how long you spend at each waterfall. Then head back into town for a tasty meal at any of the restaurants or if you have time, pick up some chocolate from El Quetzal.

The bus ride takes approximately two hours in each direction and costs $5.00.

Alternatively you can book a guided day trip to Mindo here.

Day Trip to Otavalo Market

Just a two-hour drive from Quito lies the enchanting town of Otavalo, home to one of the most famous markets in South America. This bustling market, renowned for its indigenous culture and stunning handicrafts, offers a perfect blend of shopping, sightseeing, and cultural immersion.

The main area of the market is around Plaza de Ponchos. You’ll find everything in the market from alpaca wool scarves, traditional pottery, wooden carvings, and spices! You’ll definitely find a souvenir or two here! It’s expected to bargain for a good price, but remember to be respectful and fair. 

The most budget-friendly way to get to Otavalo is by bus. Take a taxi to Terminal Carcelén in the north of Quito. Buses run frequently to and from the market. 

Alternatively, you can book a guided day trip to Otavalo here.

Day Trip to Cotopaxi National Park

I really wanted to visit Cotopaxi National Park, but I didn’t want to plan it myself. So I booked a guided day tour to Cotopaxi and it remains a highlight of my time in Quito. The day trip included a stop for lunch on the way to hike to the base of the Cotopaxi Volcano. 

It’s a tough hike as you’ll have to contend with the altitude, but if you’ve acclimatized and are in decent shape, you’ll be fine. Instead of hiking back down, you’ll hop on a mountain bike which is such a fun way to see the beautiful Andean highlands. 

Some people hike to the top of Cotopaxi, but this requires extensive training and gear. 

Book your day trip to Cotopaxi here.

If You Have More Time in Quito…

Well those 3 days in Quito were pretty epic, but if you have more time or just want some different options, check out my other recommendations for things to do in Quito.

Hike Pichincha

The Pichincha Volcano borders Quito and is a stunning hike. It’s a tough hike, but if you’ve never climbed an active volcano before, this is a great place to start! It was my first volcanic hike and one of my favorite things I did in Quito. You can read about the experience here!

Make sure you’re acclimatized to the high altitude and start in the early morning!

Many seasoned hikers use the hike to Pichincha as an acclimatization hike for other Ecuador hikes like the Quilotoa loop!

Visit the City’s Parks

Quito has so many green spaces within the city limits. One of my favorite parks is Itchimbia. It’s easy to get to from Old Town, there’s a jogging path surrounding it, a large soccer field, and a restaurant.

Two other great parks are Parque Carolina and Metropolitano, which are both located in the north of the city.

Parque Carolina has a lot to offer. You can rent a bike to ride through it, take a boat on the water, take part in a dance class, or use their outdoor gym.

Parque Metropolitano offers a number of hiking trails! It feels like you’ve stepped into a forest within Quito. All of these are great options if you need a little escape from the city.

Learn Spanish

Generally, Ecuador is a great place to learn Spanish. Not many locals speak English so you’ll have to learn a bit anyway! But they speak slower making it easier to understand and they don’t have any crazy accents (lookin’ at you Argentina).

Participate in Ciclopaseo

This is one of the coolest things I did in Quito. Every Sunday, the main street that runs throughout the city shuts down for cars and opens up for cyclists, runners, and walkers. You can rent a bike in Old Town for about 10 dollars and join the locals as they ride through the city. It ends at the old Airport which has been turned in to a type of playground for adults and kids alike. Community Adventures usually hosts a group ride for Ciclopaseo each week if you’d like to find a group to go with!

What to Eat in Quito, Ecuador

• Lapingachos. Two fried eggs, an avocado, sausages, a beet salad, and two potato patties. For 2.50. So good.
• Encebollado. Reportedly a hangover cure. This fish soup filled with yuca, red onion, and cilantro is very hearty. Add some popcorn on top. And for $2 you’ll be refreshed after a night of partying and off to explore the city.
• Corvina. Fried chicken or fish. You can find this in the market.
• Cuy. I didn’t actually get the nerve to try Cuy (guinea pig) in Quito or in Peru. Just a reason to go back, I guess?
• Empanadas. Eat ’em all!
• Ice Cream Cone. You’ll also see locals walking around with a swirl ice cream cone. One side is pink, the other side is white. There are lots of vendors selling these and it’s a nice treat!

You can also try more traditional items. I took a food tour where I ate Menudo (tripe and other cow insides) as well as a soup made out of placenta. I tried them both. They weren’t terrible.

Also, one day I tried a random spot that said “hídago” on the menu. I sat down and ordered it. Only to find out later that it was in fact liver. But it was only $5 and not half bad!

What to Drink in Quito, Ecuador

Definitely try the Canelazo in La Ronda.

Also, you may find a street vendor offering an herbal drink made with aloe. It is so tasty. Although since it’s made with aloe, the texture is quite thick and could be off-putting. But hey, I ate placenta so maybe you shouldn’t listen to me ha!

All of the hot chocolate.

While we are talking about drinks, I took it upon myself to try out all of the hot chocolate in Quito. These were my favorite places for it. But be warned, it’s a bit more bitter than I expected, which was actually quite enjoyable.

Favorite Quito Cafes for Hot Chocolate

Cafe Jaru

Cafe Jaru is located near Parque Carolina and has a hip vibe and strong WiFi. It offers a good food and coffee menu, as well as delicious hot chocolate. After exploring Parque Carolina, I realized it’s a good place to get some work or trip planning done.

Ocho y Medio

Ocho y Medio, located in the chic La Floresta neighborhood, is actually a movie theatre that shows local and international independent films. It also has a cafe with large windows, beautifully tiled floors, comfortable seating, and delicious hot chocolate.

Cafe Galleti

Cafe Galleti in Plaza Chica in Quito’s old town is where I first realized that hot chocolate can, in fact, be bitter. They’re also known for their coffee, so it’s a great spot to try coffee drinks. They also had some sweet treats available, ample seating, and large windows for people-watching.

Paccari

Paccari is a high-quality chocolate maker that uses only Ecuadorian cacao. Its shop is just off Plaza Grande. There is a tiny cafe on the second floor, but if the balcony seat is open, you can enjoy your creamy hot chocolate with a view of the bustling street below.

Where to Stay in Quito

In order to experience all of these fun things in Quito, you need a highly rated and safe place to stay. I’ll share some of the best places to stay in each neighborhood (Old Town, La Mariscal, and La Floresta) for a variety of budgets and travel styles. 

Old Town

Budget Friendly: Community Hostel 

This is where I stayed for my two months in Quito, and it’s a great place to stay! The hostel offers events every night like salsa dancing, community dinners, and language exchange. There is yoga on the rooftop every morning (amazing views from the roof). There is also a tour agency on the bottom level where you can book all of your day tours! I may be biased, but I loved staying there.

Check rates and availability here.

Mid-Range Accommodation: Hotel Casanoa 1914

Hotel Casanova is a beautifully restored 20th-century mansion located just a short walk from Plaza Grande and Basílica del Voto Nacional. Each room has high ceilings and vintage furniture, adding to the boutique atmosphere. You can choose from a single room to a larger luxury room, all for a fair price. There is also a spa and restaurant onsite and the hotel will coordinate an airport transfer for you! 

Check rates and availability here.

Luxury Accommodation: Casa Gangotena

Casa Gangotena is a five-star boutique hotel located on Plaza San Francisco, one of Quito’s most picturesque squares. The hotel combines historic charm with modern luxury, featuring elegantly decorated rooms, a beautiful garden, and a gourmet restaurant serving Ecuadorian and international cuisine. The attentive service and exquisite setting make it a perfect choice for a luxurious stay in the heart of Quito.

Check rates and availability here.

La Mariscal

Budget-Friendly Accommodation: Selina Hostel

Selina Quito is a popular choice for digital nomads and young travelers. It offers a vibrant community atmosphere and a range of accommodations from dorms to private rooms. The hostel features co-working spaces, a wellness area, a rooftop bar with stunning views of the city, and a variety of social activities. Its central location in La Mariscal makes it an excellent base for exploring Quito’s nightlife and cultural sites.

Check rates and availability here.

Mid-Range Accommodation: Hotel Vieja Cuba

Hotel Vieja Cuba is housed in a gorgeous colonia-style mansion. The hotel’s high ceilings, traditional wood furnishings, and colorful tile give it a distinct Andean flair. There is a lush courtyard to relax before heading out for a night in Mariscal, which is just steps away. There’s also an onsite restaurant that serves Ecuadorian and Cuban cuisine for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Check rates and availability here.

Luxury Accommodation: Mercure Alameda Quito

Located in the heart of La Mariscal, the Mercure Hotel Alameda is a modern hotel offering spacious rooms with contemporary amenities, including free WiFi, a fitness center, and an on-site restaurant. The hotel’s central location makes it an excellent base for exploring the area’s attractions, from lively bars and restaurants to cultural sites like La Mariscal Artisan Market.

Check rates and availability here.

La Floresta

Budget-Friendly Accommodation: Ikala Quito Hotel

Ikala Quito Hotel is a charming boutique hotel situated near the border of Old Town and La Mariscal, offering a perfect blend of convenience and tranquility. The hotel features tastefully decorated rooms that mix traditional and contemporary elements, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Guests can enjoy a relaxing courtyard, a rooftop terrace with beautiful views of the city, and easy access to both the historic and modern parts of Quito.

Check rates and availability here.

Mid-Range Accommodation: Casa Joaquin Boutique Hotel

Hotel Casa Joaquin is a stylish boutique hotel combining modern comforts and artistic flair. The hotel offers individually decorated rooms, a rooftop terrace, and a cozy bar. Its location in the heart of La Floresta makes it an excellent choice for exploring the neighborhood’s cafes, galleries, and shops. The friendly staff and personalized service make it a favorite among mid-range travelers.

Check rates and availability here.

Luxury Accommodation: Swissôtel Quito

Swissôtel Quito is a luxurious five-star hotel known for its exceptional service and upscale amenities. The hotel features elegant rooms, a spa, a fitness center, and multiple dining options, including Swiss, Japanese, and Ecuadorian cuisine. It’s right on the border between La Mariscal, providing easy access to the neighborhood’s entertainment and shopping venues.

Check rates and availability here.

This is more than enough to keep you occupied in Quito for 3 days! You have lots of food to eat, great viewpoints to visit, and neighborhoods to explore! Let me know what you’re most looking forward to about your trip to Quito in the comments!

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