Ultimate First-Timer's Guide to Exploring Quito, Ecuador: Top Attractions and Insider Tips

Ultimate First-Timer's Guide to Exploring Quito, Ecuador: Top Attractions and Insider Tips

Arriving in Quito for the first time was a journey in itself. I crossed the border from Colombia into Ecuador and decided to take the bus down to Quito. The ride was long and winding, with breathtaking views of the Andean mountains. As the bus climbed higher into the mountains, I could feel the temperature dropping. By the time we reached Quito, I was shivering. Who knew Ecuador could be so cold? As a kid I was under the impression the closer to the equator you get the warmer it gets. A jacket/sweatshirt is absolutely needed.

The first thing that struck me about Quito was its unique blend of old and new. For a history buff, Quito is a treasure trove. The city’s Historic Center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a maze of narrow streets, colonial buildings, and centuries-old churches. I spent hours wandering around, taking in the sights and sounds of the city. Every corner seemed to have a story, every building a piece of history waiting to be discovered.

One of my favorite places in the Historic Center was La Compañía de Jesús, a baroque-style church that is often called the most beautiful church in Ecuador. From the outside, it looks like any other grand church, but stepping inside is like walking into a treasure chest. The entire interior is covered in gold leaf, from the altars to the ceilings. It’s a place that leaves you in awe of the artistry and craftsmanship of the past. Take the trip up to the roof for some of the best views of San Fransisco Plaza.

Another highlight was visiting La Basílica del Voto Nacional, an impressive neo-Gothic structure that stands tall above the city. Unlike other churches, this one has a unique feature: you can climb up to the roof and walk around. I made my way up the steep stairs and ladders, and the view was well worth it. Standing on the roof, I could see the entire city stretched out before me, with the mountains in the distance. It was exhilarating, feeling the wind on my face and the city at my feet. Getting to the very top up the narrow stairs is not for the faint of heart. A few blocks from the plaza is the downtown area called Calle La Ronda. A very colorfyl, very lively section filled with great food, awesome music, and people looking to have a good time.

No visit to Quito would be complete without a trip to the Mitad del Mundo, or the Middle of the World. It’s a short drive from the city, and I was excited to stand on the equator, the imaginary line that divides the northern and southern hemispheres. The monument there is a bit touristy, but the experience of standing with one foot in each hemisphere was too fun to pass up. I even tried a few of the experiments they have there, like balancing an egg on a nail – I gave up after about 5 min of trying. There is also a really fun little museum just outside the Mitad Del Mundo. Here you can see a little more about the area but the best part by far is the real shrunken head thats on display!

Of course, I couldn't leave Quito without visiting El Panecillo, a hill that offers one of the best panoramic views of the city. At the top of El Panecillo stands a massive statue of the Virgin of Quito, with her wings spread wide as if protecting the city below. The climb up the hill was steep, but as I reached the top, the view took my breath away. Quito, with its sprawling urban landscape set against the backdrop of green mountains and clear blue skies, looked like a painting. It’s the perfect spot to take in the city’s grandeur and get a sense of its layout. The statue itself is an impressive sight, and I spent some time walking around the base, marveling at the intricate details. The sense of peace and perspective up there is incredible. It’s a must-visit for anyone coming to Quito.

As the days passed, I found myself falling in love with Quito. The city has a vibrant energy, a mix of the old and the new, the traditional and the modern. It's a place where you can lose yourself in history and culture, and yet find all the comforts of a modern city. The people are warm and welcoming, and I felt at home despite the cold weather.