Centro Histórico Travel Guide
Tourist Guide
Visit Centro Histórico
Popular places to visit
Catedral Metropolitana de Quito
See acclaimed spiritual works of art and a blend of architectural designs as you learn about the intriguing past of one of the continent’s oldest churches.
El Panecillo
Enjoy the panoramic vista of Quito and see one of the city’s most iconic statues on this pleasant hilltop in the heart of the Old Town.
Independence Square
The site where the Old Town first sprung up in Quito is home to an inspiring 16th-century cathedral and rows of majestic colonial structures.
St. Francis Catholic Church
Dating back to the city’s inception, this church is home to breathtaking 16th-century architecture, thousands of works of art and a converted catacomb.
Church of the Society of Jesus
This Baroque temple is remarkable in that its façade is made from volcanic stone while the interior is packed with lavish gold leaf.
Plaza de San Francisco
Take a break and learn about the culture and history of the Old Town in this spacious public square where the San Francisco Church resides.
Activities
Small-Group Quito Legends & Culture Tour
Quilotoa, Culture and Hiking from Quito !!!! ALL DAYS !!! BY ECUADORTREASURE
Night Tour in Quito with free time at Old Town
From Quito: Cable Car, Intiñan Museum, & Colonial Town Tour
Our pick of the best Centro Histórico Hotel Deals
Hotel San Francisco de Quito
The courtyard was so beautiful. The history of the building added to the intrigue and charm. The staff was very friendly and helpful. We had a wonderful 2 night stay. Safety was a high priority with a fare to buzz in guests. The breakfast was very nice and again the cavern environment told a story ...
Reviewed on 3 Mar 2026
Hotel Plaza Grande
A staff was exceptional, the room was beautiful, the amenities were great, the cocktails in the tavern were out of this world.
Reviewed on 28 Feb 2026
Casa Gangotena
Staff were attentive and friendly. Delicious food. Gorgeous building.
Reviewed on 13 Feb 2026
Hotel Casa Alquimia
yes, shopped nearby
Reviewed on 4 Mar 2026
Hotel Mama Cuchara by Art Hotels Ecuador
Perfect place
Reviewed on 24 Feb 2026
La Casona de la Ronda Boutique Hotel
Location was fantastic. Such a cute hotel. Staff were so helpful and kind! Couldn’t have asked for a better stay!
Reviewed on 30 Jan 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Centro Histórico
Quito Historic Center
Churches, museums and shopping are just a few things travellers like about Quito Historic Center. Sights like Carondelet Palace and Independence Square are spots to explore, and you can get around the greater Quito area at San Francisco Station.
La Tola
While visiting La Tola, you might make a stop by sights like Nayon Xtreme Valley and San Blas Square.
San Juan
You'll enjoy the museums and monuments in San Juan. You might want to make time for a stop at Centro de Arte Contemporaneo or Palacio de Gobierno.
La Mariscal
La Mariscal is known for its ample dining options, and you can make a stop by Foch Square and La Mariscal Craft Market while in the area.
La Floresta
La Floresta is noteworthy for its restaurants, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Abya Yala Museum and Trude Sojka Cultural House.
Itchimbia
While you're in Itchimbia, take in top sights like General Rumiñahui Coliseum or House of Ecuadorian Culture, and hop on the metro to see more of the city at El Ejido Station or La Alameda Station.
