Experience the Magnificent Quito: Old Town and Middle of the World Tour

Quito, Ecuador’s capital city, offers many opportunities for exploration and adventure. The Old Town and Middle of the World Tour is one unforgettable experience that you should not miss. This tour takes visitors through some of the city’s most historic and beautiful sites. Not only will you get to explore the old town and learn about its rich history, but you will also get to experience the unique Middle of the World monument, where you can stand with one foot in the Northern Hemisphere and the other in the Southern Hemisphere.

Why Take The Quito: Old Town and Middle of the World Tour?

Visiting Quito is an absolute must if you’re planning a trip to Ecuador. The city is a vibrant mix of traditional colonial architecture, modern amenities, and plenty of natural beauty. On this tour, you’ll get to explore the city’s main attractions in a fun and convenient way. You’ll have a guide with you to tell you about the history surrounding the sites you’re visiting, plus you’ll also get to stop for some delicious local snacks as part of the tour.

The Old Town portion of the tour will take you through the cobblestone streets of La Ronda and San Marcos, two of Quito’s oldest neighborhoods. Here, you’ll get to explore some of the city’s oldest churches and colonial-era buildings. The whole area is stunningly beautiful and full of history – it’s a must-see for any traveler.

This tour also takes you to La Mitad del Mundo (The Middle of the World), which straddles the equator line exactly. Here, you can stand with one foot in the Northern Hemisphere and one foot in the Southern Hemisphere for a truly unique experience. You’ll also get to explore The Middle of the World museum, where you can learn about its scientific importance, and even try Balbacua (Ecuadorian beef stew).

Book The Quito: Old Town and Middle of the World Tour

The Quito: Old Town and Middle of the World Tour is a great way to experience Ecuador’s capital city. You’ll get to explore both Quito’s old town and its unique geographical location, all in one tour. Plus, your guide will be able to tell you all about the history of these sites and provide you with plenty of interesting facts and stories.

The tour is an excellent value for money, considering that it covers some of Quito’s best attractions, is an affordable 4-hour trip, and includes a delicious traditional Ecuadorian lunch that is sure to leave your taste buds happy.

If you are interested in experiencing Quito’s breathtaking sights in a fun and convenient way, then booking this tour is a must. You can easily book it via GetYourGuide, so don’t hesitate – experience Quito like never before with the Old Town and Middle of the World Tour!

Insider’s Guide to Quito: Old Town and Middle of the World Tour

Quito, the capital city of Ecuador, is a treasure trove of historical landmarks, cultural experiences, and natural beauty. It is situated in the Andean Mountains of South America, making it the second-highest capital city in the world. A visit to Quito offers an experience that goes beyond just the sights and sounds. The city has a rich history and is home to an incredible array of architecture, museums, and street food. Furthermore, a visit to Quito is incomplete without a tour of the Old Town and the Middle of the World. Here’s a comprehensive guide that uncovers some of the city’s gems for you:

Attractions

1. The Old Town: Quito’s Old Town, also known as ‘Centro Histórico de Quito,’ is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is the largest and most well-preserved historic center in the Americas, known for its 16th- and 17th-century churches, monasteries, and houses. Walking through the cobblestone streets of the Old Town is like taking a trip back in time. Some of the must-visit attractions here include the La Compañía de Jesús, The San Francisco Monastery, and the Plaza Grande.

2. The Middle of the World: Situated about 23 km north of Quito, the Middle of the World monument marks the spot where the equator line passes through. This is a must-visit spot for anyone visiting Quito. Here, you can take pictures while standing on the equator line, enjoy Ecuadorian street food, and visit the Inti Ñan museum, which has several interactive exhibits demonstrating the equator’s unique gravitational properties.

3. El Panecillo: El Panecillo is a 200m-high hill that overlooks the city, and it is one of Quito’s most iconic landmarks. It is home to a beautiful statue of the Virgin Mary called the Virgen de Quito. You can hike up the hill, or you can take a taxi or bus to the top. The view of the city from the top of the hill is breathtaking, making El Panecillo an ideal spot for a romantic evening or sunset photography.

Dining

1. Mercado Central: Mercado Central is Quito’s largest indoor market and a must-visit spot for foodies. There are several food courts offering a wide variety of Ecuadorian delicacies, including ceviche, empanadas, and hornado (roasted pig). You might also pick up souvenirs in the adjacent handicraft market.

2. Calle La Ronda: Calle La Ronda is one of Quito’s oldest and most picturesque streets, lined with brightly painted colonial houses offering local cuisine. Here, you can try the traditional canelazo, which is a hot alcoholic beverage made with cinnamon, sugar, and aguardiente, a fiery alcoholic spirit distilled from sugar cane.

Cultural Experiences

1. Museo Casa del Alabado: The Casa del Alabado museum is situated in the heart of the Old Town and one of Ecuador’s best museums. It is dedicated to pre-Columbian art and has over 5,000 artifacts, including ceramics, textiles, and goldwork, representing the country’s diverse regions and cultures.

2. Teatro Sucre: Teatro Sucre is an iconic building located in the heart of Quito’s Old Town. It hosts a variety of cultural events, including music, theater, dance, and opera.

Local History

1. La Mitad del Mundo: La Mitad del Mundo is another monument that marks the equator line. This monument is situated about 240m away from the actual equator line, but it has a larger monument with a brass band that demonstrates the equator line, making it a popular tourist spot.

2. La Compañía de Jesús: La Compañía de Jesús is a 16th-century church, famous for its magnificent Baroque architecture. The interior of the church is covered with gold leaf and is considered one of the finest examples of Baroque art in South America.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

1. Parque Metropolitano: Parque Metropolitano is a protected natural reserve situated on the eastern slopes of Pichincha Volcano. It has several hiking trails, picnic areas, and offers breath-taking views of the city.

2. Pumapungo Archaeological Site: Pumapungo Archaeological Site is an ancient Inca palace in the city of Cuenca, about 500 km south of Quito. The site has several stone structures, terraces, and an on-site museum showcasing the region’s pre-Columbian history.

In conclusion, Quito is a fascinating and diverse city with something for everyone to experience and relish. Whether you’re a foodie, culture vulture, history buff, or nature lover, this city has plenty to offer. With a well-planned itinerary, you can explore the best of Quito’s Old Town, the Middle of the World Monument, and even some off-the-beaten-path attractions.