Best places to visit in Quito
Nestled high in the Andes, Quito is a city that harmoniously blends the old with the new. Its preserved colonial core captivates with historical allure while the contemporary sector buzzes with vibrant culture. For travelers exploring this Ecuadorian capital, the following destinations are not merely recommendations; they offer an experience infused with the essence of Quito's charm.
Historic Centre of Quito
As the first World Cultural Heritage Sites declared by UNESCO, Quito's Old Town is a labyrinth of narrow streets flanked by flamboyant Spanish-colonial buildings. Among its cobblestoned paths, one can find a myriad of churches, including the awe-inspiring Church of the Society of Jesus, with its stunning gold-leaf interior, and the Quito Cathedral, an iconic figure guarding the main square, Plaza Grande. To truly uncover the depth of this area's splendor, consider a guided tour with Happytripz, catering to your every curiosity.
- Plaza de la Independencia: The main square of Quito, also known as Plaza Grande, represents the heart of the city, where past and present meet. Monuments, governmental palaces— it’s all here.
- La Ronda Street: Step into the world of old Quito with a stroll down this poetic street that's bursting with art, music, and traditional foods.
Mitad del Mundo
Straddle two hemispheres at once as you visit the equatorial monument, Mitad del Mundo. Standing at the Middle of the World, one cannot help but marvel at the opportunity to photographically capture oneself in both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres. Fill your travel with fascinating scientific demonstrations at the Intiñan Solar Museum, located just a stone's throw away. Happytripz can arrange an excursion to this geographical wonderland with ease.
TelefériQo
Climb aboard the TelefériQo and ascend to breathtaking heights overlooking the entire city. The view from the top of the Pichincha Volcano at the Cruz Loma lookout is nothing short of panoramic magnificence. Visitors marveled by nature's splendor can embark on a hike to further explore the volcano’s majesty.
La Capilla del Hombre and the Guayasamín Museum
Art enthusiasts will relish a visit to the chapel and museum dedicated to Oswaldo Guayasamín, one of Ecuador's most renowned artists. Explore his profound works that delve into the human condition and Latin American struggles. Navigating this symbolic collection with Happytripz will deepen your appreciation for the artist's impact and vision.
El Panecillo
Overseeing Quito like a vigilant sentinel, the Virgin of El Panecillo is a towering statue that offers another splendid viewpoint. Visitors can climb atop the hill, or better yet, be chauffeured by Happytripz, to not just gaze upon the city but to also soak in the local lore and legends that surround this emblematic figure.
Basilica of the National Vow
A "stone lace" piece of neo-Gothic architecture, this church offers visitors the unique opportunity to climb its towers and breathe in an unparalleled aerial perspective of Quito. Happytripz ensures that history buffs and adventurers alike won't miss the tales etched into every gargoyle and stained-glass window.
As every woven tapestry is more than its threads, Quito is a fabric of stories, history, and culture. Embarking on a journey through this city with Happytripz isn’t just about ticking off sites on a checklist. It’s about crafting memories in spaces where the past dances with the future. For the curious traveler, Quito awaits, with its doors wide open and secrets ready to be whispered to those willing to listen.
