QUITO 101
Quito is often overlooked but it's actually the first UNESCO World Heritage Site. While most of the architecture in the city is modern the center is preserved in its colonial glory.
Be prepared,
Yes I mean carry a water bottle and a cap and wear sunscreen. You're at the center of the earth the UV rays will be hitting and the elevation can leave you pretty breathless by just walking to museums. I recommend Guitig water, it's naturally carbonated water with trace minerals.
Carry change,
Yes, the currency is USD but small merchants and even restaurants don't have change for anything bigger than $20. Stop by a TIA (very popular chain story, think Target) grab a bar of Pacari chocolate (trust me the quality is top tier they carry it on Emirites for a reason), and exchange the $100 or $50 the Chase ATM gave you.
Transportation,
The city feels walkable but it is not, I use Uber and Cabify which is another trusted ride-share app while traveling in Quito. Be safe!
Must Do:
Quito Botanical Gardens
@katherin
Super cute walk through
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TelefériQo Cable Car
@katherin
There are llamas at the top!
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Centro cultural Itchimbia
@katherin
Glass palace? yes. Views are impeccable
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Basílica del Voto Nacional
@katherin
One of the best views in the city, it is very high up! Do not attempt on the first day there if you are not used to the elevation
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Iglesia San Francisco
@katherin
There's guided tours that are great for learning about the crazy history and lore
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La Mariscal Artisan Market
@katherin
If you missed Otavalo, this is the next best thing.
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Church of the Society of Jesus
@katherin
It's just really pretty
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Capilla del Hombre
@katherin
If you like the MoMa you'll like this. One of my favorite art museums
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Mercado Iñaquito
@katherin
This is a traditional market, go crazy get the best dishes of your life from these stalls
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Club de Tenis Buena Vista
@katherin
It's a decent place for your tennis/pickleball needs
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Manuela Sáenz Museum
@katherin
Cool if you like LATAM history
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National Museum of Ecuador
@katherin
They offer guided tours
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Museo Casa de Sucre
@katherin
A good place for the history enthusiast
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Carondelet Palace
@katherin
The literal presidential palace and is used in real life, go in take pics!
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Food Recs:
República del Cacao
@katherin
Great cafe and dessert place also pick up some gifts
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Tortillas De Maiz
@katherin
Get the empanada de viento its a HUGE empanada
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De La Llama
@katherin
This places has consistently great fusion dishes. The menu is detailed
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Biloxi Comida Típica - La Niña
@katherin
This is the place to try traditional food if you don’t want to risk the street vendors
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Café Águila de Oro
@katherin
They have been roasting coffee forever, I swear. Try some there and take a bag home!
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Dulceria Colonial
@katherin
Classic cafe, go for the juices ironically and any bread with cheese
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Frutería Monserrate
@katherin
The closest thing to a dessert bar and the real food is actually good.
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Juan Valdez Café González Suárez
@katherin
Yes it's a Colombian chain, get a "granizado" basically the best iced coffee you'll have
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El Cafecito
@katherin
Cute cafe (passionfruit desserts are great) and at night there's live music and it becomes a bar
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CRUSTUM 2850
@katherin
When you are missing sourdough from Trader Joe's
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Los Sanduches de la Plaza Grande
@katherin
These are top-tier, my go-to is Mortadella. No sitting space but great for eating while walking
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Paccari Experience House
@katherin
Must do if you like chocolate they serve actual food too
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Restaurante Casa Gangotena
@katherin
Cocktails here are actually really great, insane views!
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Accommodation:
Selina Quito
@katherin
My go-to remote worker-friendly place near everything
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