Quito Old Town
★ 4.7🇪🇨 QuitoSuggested visit 1 dayBest season June to September and December to January, with less rain
World HeritageHistoric siteReligious site
Among the best-preserved colonial old towns in South America, with gilded churches beneath Andean peaks.
Overview
Laid out in the 16th century, Quito's old town is among the best-preserved colonial quarters in South America and was one of the first World Heritage Sites in 1978. Centred on Plaza Grande, it holds the Basilica del Voto Nacional, the Church of the Society of Jesus and the San Francisco monastery; the Jesuit church is known as the golden church for its lavish gilding. Andean peaks frame it all.
History
Founded by the Spanish in 1534 on an Inca city, it prospered through textiles and trade in the 17th and 18th centuries as a colonial administrative and religious centre.
Highlights
- •The gilded interior of the Jesuit church
- •Plaza Grande and the presidential palace
- •The twin towers of the basilica
- •The winged Virgin over the city
Practical tips
- •Quito sits at about 2,850 metres — take the first day easy
- •The old town is hilly; explore by day and watch your belongings
Practical information
- Best time
- June-September
- Tickets
- The old town is free; churches about USD 4-5
- Opening hours
- Old town open all day; churches roughly 9:00-17:00
- Local food
- Hornado, locro de papa, tropical fruit
- Getting around
- About 45 minutes by road from the airport to the old town.
- Visa
- Visa-free for stays up to 90 days with a valid passport.
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