Discover Quito: A UNESCO World Heritage Gem
Quito, Ecuador's capital, is often overshadowed by the Galapagos Islands, yet it boasts a wealth of attractions that earned it the title of the first UNESCO World Heritage site in the world. With its historic churches, museums, and burgeoning culinary scene, Quito is a city that deserves attention.
Comfortable temperatures year-round and a variety of accommodations make Quito an appealing destination. To help plan your trip, explore the top things to do in Quito.
![View of El Panecillo in the center of Quito with the Cotopaxi in the background](/media/ecuador-quito-top-things-to-do-el-panecillo.jpg)
1. El Panecillo
El Panecillo, a hill in southern Quito, offers stunning views of the city and is crowned by the aluminum La Virgen de Quito statue. Visit early to avoid the clouds for the best vistas.
2. Ciudad Mitad del Mundo
![Middle of the world monument in Quito, Ecuador](/media/ecuador-quito-top-things-to-do-ciudad-mitad-del-mundo.jpg)
At the equator, Ciudad Mitad del Mundo features a museum with exhibits on Ecuador's indigenous cultures. Don't miss the gravity-defying experiments and local artisan crafts.
Excursions in Quito
3. La Compañía
![Facade of the church, The Society of Jesus, representing Latin American Baroque](/media/ecuador-quito-top-things-to-do-la-campana.jpg)
Quito's most ornate church, La Compañía, is adorned with seven tons of gold leaf and is a prime example of Spanish Baroque architecture.
4. Teleferico
![Teleferico cable car to the lookout Cruz Loma](/media/ecuador-quito-top-things-to-do-teleferico.jpg)
The Teleferico, one of the world's highest aerial lifts, offers thrilling views of Quito and access to further adventures at Cruz Loma.
5. The Crystal Palace
![The Crystal Palace](/media/ecuador-quito-top-things-to-do-the-crystal-palace.jpg)
In Itchimbia Park, the Crystal Palace, a structure with ties to Gustave Eiffel, stands as a testament to architectural beauty and history.
6. Eat Empanadas
![Empanadas, typical Ecuadorian street food](/media/ecuador-quito-top-things-to-do-eat-empanadas.jpg)
Sample empanadas, a beloved street food in Ecuador, with varieties like empanadas de viento and empanadas de verde.
7. La Forest Street Art Tour
![Street art is everywhere in Quito](/media/ecuador-quito-top-things-to-do-la-forest-street-art-tour.jpg)
Discover Quito's vibrant street art and history on the free La Forest Street Art Tour, which includes a visit to the unique Ocho Y Medio cinema.
8. La Ronda
![La Ronda, one of the oldest colonial streets in Quito](/media/ecuador-quito-top-things-to-do-la-ronda.jpg)
Stroll down La Ronda, a well-preserved colonial street bustling with cafés, galleries, and traditional artisans.
9. Plaza Grande
![Plaza Grande](/media/ecuador-quito-top-things-to-do-plaza-grande.jpg)
Experience local life at Plaza Grande, surrounded by significant buildings like the Presidential Palace and the cathedral.
10. Basilica del Voto Nacional
![Basilica del Voto Nacional and downtown Quito](/media/ecuador-quito-top-things-to-do-basilica-del-voto-national.jpg)
For panoramic views, visit the Basilica del Voto Nacional and spot the unique indigenous animal gargoyles.
11. Casa del Alabado Museo
![Exhibition room, Casa del Alabado Museum, Quito](/media/ecuador-quito-top-things-to-do-casa-del-alabado-museo.jpg)
Explore pre-Columbian history at Casa del Alabado Museo, showcasing the interconnectedness of communication, rituals, and nature.
12. Chapel of Man
![Interior of the Chapel of Man](/media/ecuador-quito-top-things-to-do-chapel-of-man.jpg)
Learn about the indigenous struggle through the powerful artwork of Oswaldo Guayasamín at the Chapel of Man.
13. Convent and Monastery San Francisco
![Courtyard gardens, fountain, and dome of the church and monastery of San Francisco](/media/ecuador-quito-top-things-to-do-convent-monastery-san-francisco.jpg)
Visit Iglesia San Francisco, the largest religious complex in South America, and discover its rich history and artwork.
14. Parque Carolina
![Aerial view of Parque Carolina](/media/ecuador-quito-top-attractions-things-to-do-spend-afternoon-at-parque-carolina.jpg)
Enjoy outdoor activities at Parque Carolina, Quito's "Central Park," and explore the Quito Botanical Garden and Museum of Natural Sciences within.
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![image](/media/ecuador-top-attractions-cotopaxi-cajas-national-parks.jpg)
Guide to Ecuador: For more on Ecuador's attractions, including cities like Cuenca and Guayaquil, visit our guide to the Top Attractions in Ecuador.