Ecuador
Quito travel guide
Plan a trip to Quito: what to eat, where to stay, the best day trips and ready-made day-by-day plans.
What to eat in Quito
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CevicheMarinated shrimp or fish with lime, onion and cilantro, eaten at lunch in coastal‑style eateries.
HornadoSlow‑roasted pork served with hominy and plantains, common at street markets and weekend fairs.
FanescaHearty soup of beans, grains, and fish, traditionally prepared for Holy Week.
ChurrascoThin steak with rice, fries and fried egg, a staple in mid‑range restaurants.
Where to stay in Quito
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culture lovers
Stay among colonial churches and museums; walking distance to major attractions.
backpackers
Vibrant nightlife, many hostels and budget hotels, close to bus terminals.
foodies
Artistic neighborhood with cafés, markets and boutique lodgings, quieter than Mariscal.
families
Suburban area with modern hotels and shopping malls, a short bus ride from the center.
Day trips from Quito
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Mindo Cloud Forest Reserve
30 km
Mindo Cloud Forest Reserve offers guided hikes through misty trails and birdwatching spots, ideal for a nature day trip.
Papallacta Hot Springs
45 km
Papallacta Hot Springs features mineral pools set in the Andes, a relaxing soak after a drive from Quito.
Otavalo Market and Plaza
57 km
Otavalo Market and Plaza host indigenous artisans selling textiles and crafts, plus a lively central square.
Pululahua Geobotanical Reserve
29 km
Pululahua Geobotanical Reserve sits in a volcanic crater with easy walking paths and panoramic views of the valley.
Best time to visit
Best time to go: July
Midday highs, based on last year's weather. Green months have comfortable temperatures and few rainy days.
Turn this into a day-by-day plan with Triptime AI, or start from a ready-made one.
Plan 2 days in Quito
What to pack in October
Ready-made plans for Quito
Questions about Quito
Do I need to worry about altitude when eating?
Start with light meals and stay hydrated; heavy foods can worsen altitude symptoms.
Is it safe to eat street food?
Yes, choose stalls with many locals and fresh ingredients; avoid anything that looks left out.
Which area is best for a quiet stay?
La Floresta offers a relaxed atmosphere while still being close to restaurants and transport.
How far is the airport from the city centre?
About 25 km; a taxi or airport shuttle takes 30‑45 minutes depending on traffic.