Quito Walking Tour Explore the Historic Center of Ecuador
Stroll through the UNESCO-listed historic center of Quito, Ecuador's capital, on a guided walking tour that immerses you in the city's rich culture and colonial beauty. This tour is designed for those who appreciate history, architecture, and local life, offering a relaxed pace to fully absorb the charm of the cobblestone streets. Led by an expert local guide, explore iconic sites such as Plaza Grande, La Compañía de Jesús, and the San Francisco Church. Discover hidden courtyards, artisan shops, and viewpoints that showcase the vibrant essence of Quito.
- Guided walking tour through Quito's UNESCO-listed historic center
- Visit key landmarks including Plaza Grande and La Compañía de Jesús
- Engage with local culture through anecdotes and artisan shops
- Perfect for history buffs, photographers, and cultural enthusiasts
Options
Admission included
What's included in Quito Walking Tour Explore the Historic Center of Ecuador
(Subject to Option Inclusions)Itinerary
Basilica del Voto Nacional
The Basilica del Voto Nacional is one of the largest neo-Gothic churches in Latin America and a true architectural icon of Quito. Inspired by the Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris, its façade is adorned with unique gargoyles shaped like native Ecuadorian animals such as iguanas, turtles, and condors. One of the highlights of visiting the basilica is climbing its main towers, which offer some of the best panoramic views of Quito’s Historic Center and the surrounding cityscape. The ascent includes internal bridges, steep stairs, and a thrilling experience for those who don’t mind heights. From the top, you can admire colonial rooftops, nearby churches, and even distant volcanoes like Pichincha. It’s the perfect spot for breathtaking photos and to truly appreciate the scale and detail of this architectural masterpiece.
Palacio Arzobispal
The Archbishop’s Palace (Palacio Arzobispal) is one of the most emblematic colonial buildings in Quito’s Historic Center. Located on the Plaza Grande, right across from the Presidential Palace, it has been the residence of the archbishops of Quito since the 16th century. This elegant two-story structure features traditional Spanish colonial architecture, with whitewashed walls, arched corridors, and a beautiful interior courtyard. Over time, the palace has been carefully restored and now blends religious significance with cultural and commercial use. Today, visitors can explore its charming inner patios, enjoy cafés, artisan shops, and galleries, and admire the historical architecture that reflects centuries of Quito’s ecclesiastical and civic life. It’s a peaceful and photogenic stop in the heart of the city.
Plaza de la Independencia (Plaza Grande)
Independence Square, also known as Plaza Grande, is the historic and political heart of Quito. Surrounded by some of the city’s most important buildings—including the Presidential Palace (Carondelet), the Cathedral of Quito, the Archbishop’s Palace, and the City Hall—this plaza has been a central gathering place since colonial times. At the center stands the Independence Monument, commemorating Ecuador’s heroes of the 1809 revolution against Spanish rule. The square is beautifully landscaped with palm trees, gardens, fountains, and benches, offering a peaceful space where locals and visitors gather to relax, chat, and enjoy street musicians or cultural events.
Inclusions
- Bilingual Tour Guide
- Traditional sweets tasting
- Chocolate tasting
- Ticket San Francisco Church
- Ticket Basilica
- Canelazo tasting – traditional drink
- Ticket la Compania Church
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meet
Pickup and Dropoff
You will make your own way to the meeting points
Meeting Points
- Your guide will be at the meeting point holding a sign that says “Real Dreams Tour” and wearing a t-shirt with a green turtle logo. Please arrive a few minutes early. If needed, contact us via WhatsApp for assistance.
End Points
- The tour ends at Plaza San Francisco, one of Quito’s most iconic and historic squares. From here, you can continue exploring on your own, enjoy a local café, or take in the beautiful view of the San Francisco Church. Your guide will be happy to provide recommendations before saying goodbye.
