Half-Day Quito City Tour with Old Town and El Panecillo

The journey

Trip highlights

• 01 Explore the Basílica del Voto Nacional, South America's highest neogothic church, with sweeping views over Quito
• 02 Take in a 360° panorama from El Panecillo at the feet of the Virgin overlooking the city
• 03 Walk through Plaza de San Francisco and Plaza Grande, surrounded by Quito's historic landmarks
• 04 See emblematic sites including the Cathedral, Palacio de Gobierno, Archbishop's Palace, and La Compañía church
• 05 Experience the romantic atmosphere of La Ronda with its artists, bohemians, poets, and local flavours

Discover Quito's World Heritage Centre, known as America's "City of Lights," on a half-day exploration of its beautifully preserved Old Town. Visit historic churches, plazas, and landmarks that reflect the city's rich blend of colonial heritage and pre-Columbian culture. From panoramic viewpoints to the lively atmosphere of La Ronda, this tour offers a memorable introduction to Quito's history, architecture, and local traditions, including a taste of local ice cream or hot tea.

The view from its towers is certainly worth the climb - and the vertigo - to reach the summit.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 4 Hours

Tour type Shared

Activity level Moderate

Accommodation Not included

Transport Included

Wheelchair access Yes

Languages English, Spanish

Day by day

The itinerary

1

Day 01

Quito Old Town, El Panecillo, and La Ronda

• The tour begins with a visit to the Basílica del Voto Nacional, where you will learn about its neogothic structure. The view from its towers is certainly worth the climb - and the vertigo - to reach the summit.
• Later, you will explore the Virgin of El Panecillo, one of Quito's most recognizable landmarks. From there, you will stand at her feet and enjoy a 360° vista from one of the highest points in the city.
• There is also an opportunity to visit the museum for an additional payment.
• You will then enjoy a walk through Plaza de San Francisco, one of the city's most representative and historic places. From there, you will discover Plaza Grande, the historical and political centre of the city, surrounded by innumerable attractions including the Cathedral, the Palace of Government, the Archbishop's Palace, and La Compañía church.
• The city tour ends in the traditional La Ronda neighbourhood, where its romantic setting introduces you to artists, bohemians, poets, and the misunderstood. An ice cream or tea tasting experience helps create a once-in-a-lifetime tour.
• You will then be dropped off at your accommodation.

The route

Where you'll travel

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

• Tourism Ministry-licensed bilingual tour guide
• Private transportation
• Ecuadorian tea
• Pick-up at the hotel

What's Not Included

• Church entrance fees
• Museum entrance fees
• Personal souvenirs
• Alcoholic beverages
• Tips

What to bring

• Guests are strongly encouraged to wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes with sturdy, rugged soles.
• Bring sun protection such as sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat (day tour).

Know before you go

• Guests with medical conditions and/or special dietary restrictions must inform us in sufficient time so that we can accommodate their request.
• Ecuador uses the U.S. dollar as its official currency.
• Most vendors accept cash. We recommend that guests bring U.S. dollars with them if they wish to buy souvenirs.
• Photography is encouraged, while always keeping local rules in mind.
• All itineraries, dining options, accommodations, and journey experiences are subject to change without notice due to factors such as climate conditions, season, host availability, operational issues, and guest security.

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point

Quito, Ecuador

Tour start

Venezuela 11-263 y, Quito 170130, Ecuador

Tour ends at the same location as the start point.