Quito, the capital city of Ecuador, is known for its vibrant culture, stunning architecture, and breathtaking scenery. With so much to see and do, it can be overwhelming to plan the perfect itinerary for your visit. Luckily, walking tours are a great way to immerse yourself in the city’s history and culture while taking in the sights and sounds at a leisurely pace. In this post, we’ll explore the two best walking tours in Quito that will show you the hidden gems of the city and leave you with unforgettable memories. So put on your comfortable walking shoes, grab your camera, and let’s explore the beauty of Quito together.
The 2 Best Walking Tours in Quito
The 2 Best Walking Tours in Quito
1. Quito: Street Food Essentials
Begin your culinary adventure in Quito’s main flea market, a hidden gem even for locals, where you’ll try some of the best traditional dishes in a classic working environment full of antiques and small treasures. From there, walk around the Basilica of the National Vow and explore the eateries surrounding one of the oldest and most significant public schools where most of the student movements take place.
Make your third stop in one of the busiest political areas, where the amount and quality of the eateries are beyond imagination. Enjoy a pleasant walk around beautiful street art towards the main park in downtown Quito and get a glimpse of everyday life, national sports, and some of the most representative street eateries in town.
As your first bites digest, follow the most mind-blowing stop to savor the most delicious culinary scene in the country: seafood from Manabí, famous for its inventive, resourceful, and truly unique food. Then, continue your pleasant walk and find your way to one of the favorite markets in town, a gastronomic paradise showcasing the natural abundance of Ecuador.
Finish your journey with quality hand-made chocolate, the icing on the cake of Quito’s top flavors. You can choose to take a regular shared or private walking tour with or without pickup and drop-off from selected areas in Quito. Please note that this tour is not recommended for people with limited mobility, and it involves walking for about 3 kilometers.
2. Quito: City Highlights and Food Walking Tour
Explore the best of Quito’s historical and alternative scenes on this City Highlights and Food Walking Tour. See the main historical plazas, buildings, churches, and parks while admiring downtown’s mix of colonial and modern architecture. Discover the alternative side of Quito by visiting its main flea market and trying street food at a top spot. Finally, indulge in some of the city’s best chocolate and coffee, handcrafted by a top chocolatier. This tour includes lunch, fruit, chocolate, and coffee, as well as bilingual guide service in English and Spanish. Hotel pick-up and drop-off are available depending on the option chosen. The meeting point is Teatro Bolivar on Oe 2-43 Eugenio Espejo street, and participants should arrive 15 minutes before the tour starts. Please note that this tour is not recommended for people with mobility impairments and it involves approximately 3 kilometers of walking. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and avoid sleeveless shirts. Join us for an unforgettable journey into the heart of Quito.
Most Frequently Asked Questions About Quito
Quito, the capital city of Ecuador, is a beautiful and bustling city full of culture, history, and charm. However, before traveling to Quito, it’s essential to know a few important things about the city to help plan your trip effectively. In this blog post, we will answer some of the most frequently asked questions about Quito.
1. What is the best time to visit Quito?
The best time to visit Quito is in the dry season, which runs from June to September. During this time, the weather is pleasant and cool, making it an ideal time for tourists to explore the city. However, if you prefer to avoid the crowds, the shoulder season from October to December is also a great time to visit.
2. What are the must-see attractions in Quito?
Quito has various transportation options, including:
- Taxis
- Buses
- The Teleferico cable car
- Rental cars
6. What is the food culture like in Quito?
Quito is known for its delicious cuisine, which has been influenced by indigenous Andean, Spanish, and African cultures. Visitors can try traditional Ecuadorian dishes such as ceviche, locro, empanadas, and churrasco. Additionally, there are many international restaurants and cafes to cater to different taste preferences.
7. What is the language spoken in Quito?
The official language of Ecuador is Spanish. However, many locals, especially those who work in the tourism industry, speak English fluently.
8. Is it necessary to learn Spanish to visit Quito?
Learning Spanish is not mandatory to visit Quito, but it can be helpful. Knowing some basic Spanish phrases can make communicating with locals easier and more enjoyable. However, most touristy areas cater to English speakers, and many signs and menus are written in both Spanish and English.
9. What is the dress code in Quito?
The dress code in Quito is formal and conservative. It’s important to dress appropriately and avoid revealing clothing, especially while visiting churches and other religious sites.
10. Do I need a visa to visit Quito?
Many visitors do not need a visa to enter Ecuador, including citizens from the United States, Canada, and many European countries. However, it’s essential to check the visa requirements beforehand to avoid any issues while traveling.
Conclusion
Quito is a beautiful city full of history, culture, and charm. With these frequently asked questions answered, planning a trip to Quito can be effortless and enjoyable. Whether you want to visit the historic center, try traditional dishes, or take a ride on the Teleferico cable car, Quito has something to offer every visitor.
There are a lot of must-see attractions in Quito such as:
- The Historic Center of Quito
- The Church of the Society of Jesus
- The Basilica del Voto Nacional
- The Middle of the World Monument
- The Teleferico cable car to Pichincha Volcano
- The Quito Botanical Garden
3. Is Quito a safe city?
Yes, Quito is a safe city. However, like any other city in the world, it’s important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings, especially at night. It’s always best to travel in groups, especially in the evening, and avoid walking alone in less populated areas of the city.
4. What is the currency used in Quito?
The official currency of Ecuador is the US dollar. This makes it easy for visitors from the United States and other countries that use the dollar as their currency to travel to Quito without having to exchange money.
5. What are the transportation options in Quito?
Quito has various transportation options, including:
- Taxis
- Buses
- The Teleferico cable car
- Rental cars
6. What is the food culture like in Quito?
Quito is known for its delicious cuisine, which has been influenced by indigenous Andean, Spanish, and African cultures. Visitors can try traditional Ecuadorian dishes such as ceviche, locro, empanadas, and churrasco. Additionally, there are many international restaurants and cafes to cater to different taste preferences.
7. What is the language spoken in Quito?
The official language of Ecuador is Spanish. However, many locals, especially those who work in the tourism industry, speak English fluently.
8. Is it necessary to learn Spanish to visit Quito?
Learning Spanish is not mandatory to visit Quito, but it can be helpful. Knowing some basic Spanish phrases can make communicating with locals easier and more enjoyable. However, most touristy areas cater to English speakers, and many signs and menus are written in both Spanish and English.
9. What is the dress code in Quito?
The dress code in Quito is formal and conservative. It’s important to dress appropriately and avoid revealing clothing, especially while visiting churches and other religious sites.
10. Do I need a visa to visit Quito?
Many visitors do not need a visa to enter Ecuador, including citizens from the United States, Canada, and many European countries. However, it’s essential to check the visa requirements beforehand to avoid any issues while traveling.
Conclusion
Quito is a beautiful city full of history, culture, and charm. With these frequently asked questions answered, planning a trip to Quito can be effortless and enjoyable. Whether you want to visit the historic center, try traditional dishes, or take a ride on the Teleferico cable car, Quito has something to offer every visitor.
Table of Contents
