Quito
4-5 hours
Tour Historic Center of Quito + Handicraft Shopping
Exploring the Historic Center of Quito is like traveling to a world where the Andes embrace a city built with faith, art, and tradition. Declared the First Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO (1978), its historic center is a living treasure.
This half-day tour invites you to discover the essentials, with history, architecture, panoramic views, and fine craftsmanship.
Highlights
• Panoramic viewpoint in the San Juan neighborhood
• Basilica of the National Vow and its gargoyles inspired by Ecuadorian fauna
• Independence Plaza and its monumental architecture
• Metropolitan Cultural Center
• Church of La Compañía de Jesús
• San Francisco Plaza
• La Ronda Street (optional and if time permits)
• Handicraft shopping (option between Olga Fisch Folklore or an alternative store)
1
Departure from JW Marriott Hotel
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Meet the guide in the lobby and a brief historical introduction.
2
San Juan Neighborhood Viewpoint – Panoramic View
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An elevated spot with extraordinary views of the Historic Center, its churches, squares, and domes.
3
Basilica of the National Vow
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A unique neo-Gothic temple with gargoyles inspired by emblematic species of Ecuador. Time for photos and historical explanation.
4
Independence Plaza
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The political center of the country with the Government Palace, Metropolitan Cathedral, and the Monument to Liberty.
5
Metropolitan Cultural Center
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Former 16th-century Jesuit complex with historic courtyards and colonial architecture.
6
Church of the Society of Jesus
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A jewel of Latin American Baroque, famous for its interior covered in gold leaf.
7
Plaza de San Francisco
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One of the oldest squares in South America, overlooking the historic Franciscan complex.
8
Calle La Ronda (optional, time permitting)
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A traditional street with artisan workshops and historic houses.
9
Artisan Shopping – Optional
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• Option A: Olga Fisch Folklore – high-quality art and design
• Option B: Alternative artisan boutique
End of the tour and return to the JW Marriott Hotel.
