How to Plan Your Quito: Old Town and Middle of the World Tour

If you’re looking for an exciting tour in Quito, then the Quito: Old Town and Middle of the World Tour is the perfect choice. This tour takes you through the historical old town of Quito and also gives you the opportunity to visit the equator line monument and Intiñan museum. In this post, we will guide you on how to plan your Quito tour to ensure you have a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

Experience

The tour starts from your hotel and ends at the same point after the completion of the tour. The tour is led by a knowledgeable driver and a guide, who will provide you with detailed information about the places you visit. During the tour, you will visit La Compañia San Francisco and the Basilica churches, explore the old town of Quito and Panecillo Hill, reach 4200 meters above sea level to view all of Quito, and visit the Intiñan museum on the equator line.

Highlights

The Quito: Old Town and Middle of the World Tour is a must-try experience. Some of the highlights of this tour include:

• Visit to Plaza Grande and La Compañia de Jesús San Francisco and La Basilica Churches in the old town
• Visit to Panecillo Hill – a magnificent viewpoint overlooking the city
• Climbing to 4200 meters above sea level to view all of Quito
• A visit to the equator line monument and Intiñan museum.

Full Description

The tour starts from your hotel from where you will be picked up by a comfortable vehicle. You’ll then head to the old town of Quito where you’ll visit Plaza Grande and its surrounding buildings including La Compañia de Jesús, San Francisco, and La Basilica Churches.

Afterward, you’ll explore Panecillo Hill, one of the highest points in Quito that offers a stunning view of the entire city. You’ll then head to the cable car Teleférico to climb to 4200 meters above sea level to view all of Quito.

Following a 45-minute drive, you will find yourself in the middle of the world visiting the equator line monument and Intiñan museum. The museum includes interactive displays and exhibits about the equator line’s impact on the earth’s position and global culture.

At the end of the tour, you will be dropped back off at your hotel. The tour itinerary is very flexible, and lunch could be provided in either the middle of the world or in the old town.

Includes

The Quito: Old Town and Middle of the World Tour is an all-inclusive tour. It includes:

• Transportation: Pick up and drop off from your hotel by a comfortable vehicle
• Driver / Guide: A knowledgeable driver and a guide who will provide you with information about the places you visit
• Entrance Fees: Entrance fees to all the attractions in the Itinerary
• Food and Drink: Lunch can be provided in either the middle of the world or in the old town.

Not suitable for

This tour is not suitable for wheelchair users as it involves climbing stairs and hiking up hills.

Booking

You can book the Quito: Old Town and Middle of the World Tour by visiting here. The tour price is reasonable and gives you value for your money.

Conclusion

The Quito: Old Town and Middle of the World Tour is an experience worth having. You get to explore the rich historical culture of Quito and the incredible experience standing on both the northern and southern hemispheres at the same time. Ensure to plan your tour ahead of time and book through the recommended channels to get the best experience out of the tour.

Insider’s Guide: Quito, Ecuador

If you’re visiting Quito, don’t limit yourself to the tourist spots. There are plenty of hidden gems only locals know about that can offer you a unique experience of the city. We’ve put together an insider’s guide to exploring Quito that’ll help you discover the real heart of this vibrant Ecuadorian city.

Local Attractions: Beyond Tourist Spots

Begin your exploration of Quito by visiting the lesser-known attractions. For example, the Quito Observatory, located in the heart of the city, offers stunning views of the Andean skyline. It is one of the oldest astronomical observatories in South America.

Another hidden gem is the Museum of Water. This interactive museum educates visitors about water’s essential role in the city’s history, culture, and environment. For a unique and unforgettable experience, take a bike tour of the city and visit historical sites like the Guapulo Church.

Dining Spots: Taste of Local Cuisine

Ecuadorian cuisine is a mix of Spanish and indigenous traditions, with an emphasis on fresh, locally grown ingredients. Must-try local dishes include the ceviche, a seafood salad marinated in lemon and served with boiled corn, avocado, and toasted corn nuts. For a more adventurous food lover, we recommend trying cuy, a dish made from a roasted guinea pig.

Ecuadorians love their coffee and chocolate, so make sure to visit the Saborella Chocolatier to experience the best cocoa beans in the world made into delicious chocolate, found only in Ecuador! And don’t forget to try churrasco, a traditional dish made from beef, rice, beans, and egg, served with avocado and corn.

Cultural Experiences: Tradition and Festivals

One of Ecuador’s most significant cultural experiences is the Otavalo Market. The market, which takes place every Saturday, features textiles, handicrafts, and clothing made by indigenous artisans. Visitors can witness rare embroidered designs, weave patterns, and products that celebrate Ecuador’s traditions.

Another must-have cultural experience in Quito is a visit to La Ronda, a charming cobblestone street with its picturesque colonial-style houses. The street is brimming with music, art, and food, and it is home to many street artists and performers. It is the perfect destination for a cultural immersion in Quito.

Local History: Captivating Stories

Quito has a rich and fascinating history marked by cultures blending together. The Casa Del Abuelo, which is over 100 years old, has served as both a hospital and a hotel in the past. Today, it has received recognition as a cultural patrimony site because of its role in the city’s history.

The San Francisco Church, which dates back to the sixteenth century, is the oldest and most impressive church in Quito. With its ornate architecture and colorful murals, the church is an essential part of the city’s heritage.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Unforgettable Experiences

For a unique and unforgettable off-the-beaten-path suggestion, visit the Guayasamin Museum. The museum has a vast collection of artwork from one of Ecuador’s most famous painters, Oswaldo Guayasamin. The museum also includes a gallery of Latin American art, a theatre, and an archeological area.

For a more adventurous experience, take a cable car ride over the Pichincha volcano, which offers panoramic views of the city. You can also hike in the surrounding Andean hills or enjoy horseback riding on a historic hacienda.

In conclusion, Quito has a lot to offer, and this insider’s guide will help you make the most of your visit. Whether you’re interested in food, culture, or history, there’s something for everyone in Quito, from hidden gems to off-the-beaten-path experiences. So why wait? Start planning your trip to Quito now, and don’t forget to share your experiences with friends and family.