Discover Quito’s Past As You Venture Through The 1914 Original Trolley City Tour

If you’re a traveler looking for an authentic experience in Quito, look no further than the 1914 Original Trolley City Tour! Journey to the past with a local guide as you traverse through cobblestone streets, learn in-depth information about the city’s past, and visit some of Quito’s most significant monuments. Traveling through centuries of history, the tour takes you down the longest pedestrian street in South America, Plaza Foch. Here, you will learn about how this street has evolved over time and how it has become synonymous with the vibrant spirit of the city. During this historical tour, you will also get to explore Quito’s colonial quarter—an area that holds much hidden charm and was named a UNESCO world heritage site since 1978. You will not only admire the amazing colonial architecture but also explore the sites where independence moments that define Ecuador took place centuries before. Next up a visit to the Church of San Francisco will take you back to the 16th century. This church was the first to be constructed in this lively capital, and its name was given after the patron saint of Quito. The remains of many important personalities are kept inside, including those of Mariscal Sucre, Simon Bolivar’s lieutenant-general. Afterwards, the tour continues to La Ronda, which is marked for its artwork, churches and museums, and was recently reopened after years of rehabilitation. Along with its famous Underground Museum, this is a great place to take a look into both Pre-Colombian and colonial-style monuments. There are many public craftsmanship stalls around as well! If you’re looking for an authentic souvenir, this is a great place to pick one up. Your guide will also lead you to the San Pablo Plaza and General National Archive, which opens its doors to visitors who want to find more about the history of Ecuador. Built in 1571 and carefully restored in the 19th century, this is an exquisite ancient building to admire. You can book Quito’s 1914 Original Trolley City Tour on GetYourGuide. This 2-hour city tour by vintage tram is one of the most complete tours in Quito because your experienced guide will share with you dates, stories and important facts about the city, helping you gain a better understanding of Ecuador heritage. You will also get round-trip transportation from your location to the trolley station, giving you extra convenience. Moreover, you will receive important safety instructions before departure and be the assisted throughout the tour for real comfort and security. This tour is a great way to discover the historical and cultural side of Quito in a unique experience! Plus, it will keep your feet safe from walking around too much, saving you energy to explore much more around the city afterward. If you’re looking for an original and engaging way to explore this gorgeous destination; this is certainly the way to do it! The 1914 Original Trolley City Tour is worth every cent! Not only do you get a front-row seat exploring some of Ecuador’s most important spots through the lenses of history; but you also get quality video recordings of your tour that can later serve as amazing memories or as special gifts. So if you want to explore Quito in a truly unique way, get ready for a ride through history by embarking on this great tour! You will get to be exposed to all kinds of local stories and soak up Ecuador’s magnificent heritage at each turn. It is sure to be an adventure not to miss out on!

An Insider’s Guide to Quito, Ecuador

Quito, the capital of Ecuador, is a city filled with history, culture, and stunning architecture. While many tourists flock to the common attractions, there are several hidden gems that only the locals know about. Here is an insider’s guide to Quito, including some of the best local attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions.

Local Attractions

Quito is a city full of history, with its Old Town being declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its well-preserved colonial architecture. However, for something a little different, head to “La Mariscal,” a bohemian neighborhood known for its art galleries, cafes, and bars. Another must-visit attraction is “El Teleferico,” a cable car that takes you to the top of the Pichincha Volcano for panoramic views of the city.

For those looking for an even more adventurous experience, head to the “Mitad del Mundo” monument, located on the equator. While it may be a tourist spot, it’s still worth visiting to learn about the history and culture of Ecuador and to snap a photo with one foot in each hemisphere.

Dining Spots

One of the best ways to experience Quito’s food scene is to try the “elmercado” or local market. The Mercado Central is a bustling market full of food stalls, where you can try local delicacies such as roasted pig, ceviche, and hornado (roasted pork). But for something a little fancier, head to “Zazu,” a gourmet restaurant that uses local ingredients to create a fusion of traditional Ecuadorian cuisine with modern twists.

An interesting anecdote related to Quito’s food culture is “chicha,” a fermented corn drink that dates back to pre-Columbian times. While it’s not as popular now, there are still a few traditional “chicherias” scattered around the city, where you can try this unique beverage.

Cultural Experiences

Quito is a city rich in culture, with many festivals, art, and music events throughout the year. One of the most significant cultural events is “La Semana Santa” or Holy Week, a religious festival that takes place in the lead-up to Easter. The city comes alive with processions, music, and street performances.

For art lovers, head to the “Museo Guayasamin,” a museum that showcases works by one of Ecuador’s most famous artists, Oswaldo Guayasamin. To experience traditional music, head to “La Plaza del Teatro,” where you can catch live performances of Andean and Afro-Ecuadorian music.

Local History

Quito has a fascinating history that dates back to pre-Columbian times. A captivating story from the city’s past is the legend of Yumbos, a tribe that inhabited Quito before the arrival of the Incas. According to legend, they created a device that could move blocks of stone weighing up to 200 tons, centuries before the building of the pyramids in Egypt. The Yumbo’s device was never found, but it’s still a mystery that captivates locals and tourists alike.

Another historical site worth visiting is “La Basilica del Voto Nacional,” a stunning Gothic-style basilica that took almost 100 years to build.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For an unforgettable and unique experience, visit the “Calle de las Siete Cruces,” a street in the Old Town that is steeped in legend and history. The street gets its name from the seven little chapels that line it, each with its own unique backstory.

For something even more off-the-beaten-path, head to the “Parque Metropolitano,” a huge park located on the edge of the city. From here, you can take a scenic hike up “El Panecillo,” a hill that offers even more incredible views of the city.

In conclusion, Quito is an incredible city with so much to offer beyond the common tourist spots. By exploring some of the hidden gems and taking part in the local culture, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for this historic and beautiful city.