Quito City Tour

The visit of the old town starts at the Basilica del Voto Nacional, the largest neo-Gothic basilica in the Americas. The building is noted for its grotesques in the form of native Ecuadorian animals on the facade such as armadillos, iguana, and Galapagos tortoises. After observing the church from inside the tour continues with a visit of the Plaza de Independencia (or “Plaza Grande”), the main square of Quito’s old town and one of the symbols of the executive power of the nation. Its main feature is the monument that remembers the start of the independence from Spanish monarchy in 1809. The square is flanked by the Presidential Palace, the Cathedral, the Archbishop’s Palace and the Municipality of Quito. Next you will visit the impressive La Compañia church with its golden interior. Dripping with extravagance, the church is adorned head to toe in gold leaf decorations. After visiting Plaza de San Francisco and observing its church of the same name from outside, you will make a last stop at La Ronda street. Here you can get a glimpse into the culture and Spanish-era heritage of Quito. This lively cobblestone street is the place to explore historic buildings, sample traditional food and watch artisans at work. Your guide will invite you to try an artisanal ice cream with typical Ecuadorian flavours. Afterwards he will bring you back to your hotel.

In special occasions, such as national holidays, the Basilica del Voto Nacional and La Compañia churches can be closed for public. In this case they will only be observed from outside.