We think Quito is one of the most underrated capital cities in Latin America. It’s located high in the Andes Mountains at nearly 10,000 feet, and is full of colonial charm and vibrant local culture. We only had two full days in Quito, but they were packed with memorable experiences. If you’re heading to the Galápagos or Amazon, don’t skip Quito. Here’s how to spend a couple of days soaking up its history, cuisine, and high-altitude beauty.

Day 1: Sunday in Quito’s Historic Center

We arrived on a Sunday, which turned out to be a perfect day to explore Quito’s Old Town. Many of the streets were closed to cars, and the city had a festive, relaxed energy. This is part of a wider Latin American tradition where streets are closed to traffic on Sundays to encourage walking, biking, and outdoor activity.

It also happened to be Epiphany (Three Kings’ Day), so families were out celebrating. The plazas were full of people, and the historic district came alive with music and movement.

We wandered through Plaza Grande, Plaza San Francisco, and Plaza Santo Domingo, soaking in the architecture and watching locals gather. The pastel facades, wrought iron balconies, and ornate churches made every corner feel like a postcard. If you’re a walker like we are, this is the best way to get a feel for the city. Be prepared for some steep hills and stairs, but the views are worth it.

Day 2: Cooking Class and Market Visit

On our second day, we booked a private cooking class at Altamira Restaurante, just a short walk from our hotel in the historic district. This was hands down one of our favorite experiences in Quito.

Chef Edwin took us to a local market to pick out fresh ingredients. We chatted with vendors, sampled produce, and got a feel for everyday life in the city. Back at the restaurant, we cooked a three-course Ecuadorian meal that included ceviche, shark with coconut sauce, and a fruit dessert in warm chocolate soup. Everything was fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented. It was an immersive look at Ecuadorian culture and hospitality.

If you’re looking for something unique to do in Quito that goes beyond sightseeing, we highly recommend this class. It’s an easy way to connect with local flavors and meet people who are passionate about sharing their heritage.

Where to Stay in Quito

We chose to stay in Quito’s historic center, and we’re glad we did. It’s walkable, full of character, and close to major sights. We felt completely comfortable walking around during the day. However, the area gets very quiet at night, and we wouldn’t recommend walking around after dark. The streets become desolate, and there’s not much foot traffic.

Instead, take an Uber or have your hotel call a taxi if you’re heading out in the evening. Don’t hail cabs from the street. Uber worked well for us and felt safe and reliable.

Another good option, especially if you’re looking for nightlife, restaurants, and convenience, is La Mariscal. It’s about 15 minutes north of the historic district and is often referred to as “Gringolandia.” We spent some time here as well and enjoyed exploring the bars and eateries around Plaza Foch. It’s more modern and tourist-friendly but lacks the historic charm of the Old Town. Depending on your priorities, you may want to stay in La Mariscal and day-trip into the historic center, or vice versa.

Gorgeous Boutique: Casa el Edén

We stayed in a boutique hotel with just six guest rooms, Casa el Edén, which was located in close walking distance to the heart of the the central historic district. The couple who owns and lives in the place were so kind and welcoming and made a delicious breakfast each morning. The place was comfortable and so beautiful in a restored colonial building with a little rooftop garden overlooking the city. Perfect!

High-Altitude Tips for Quito

Quito sits at almost 10,000 feet (3,000 meters), so altitude sickness can be real. To minimize symptoms:

• Drink plenty of water
• Limit alcohol, especially on your first day (but definitely try the local beer)
• Take it easy physically until you adjust
• Wear sunscreen and a hat: the sun is intense at this altitude

We felt the altitude on day one but adjusted quickly by staying hydrated, walking slowly, and getting good rest.

Safety and Transportation

Quito felt safe during the day, especially in the historic center and La Mariscal. But as always, use common sense:

• Avoid walking alone at night, especially in less busy areas
• Use ride apps like Uber for evening outings
• Stick to well-lit, populated streets
• Ask your hotel or restaurant to call a taxi if needed

We found the locals to be welcoming and helpful. Our drivers even stayed until we got in the door at our bed and breakfast. Just stay alert and travel smart.

Two More Days? Here’s What We’d Add

If we had a few more days in Quito, there are several popular day trips we would’ve added:

• Mitad del Mundo (Middle of the World Monument): About an hour from central Quito, this spot marks the equator line. There are museums, photo ops, and experiments you can try to see the Coriolis effect in action. Yes, it’s touristy, but also unique to Ecuador.
• TelefériQo and Pichincha Volcano Hike: Take a cable car up to 13,000 feet and enjoy panoramic views over the city. It’s a challenging, high-altitude hike, but we hear even just the cable car ride is worth it for the views.
• Otavalo Market: Known for its vibrant textiles and handmade crafts, this market is one of the most famous in South America. It’s about two hours away, so plan for a full day. Go early for the best selection and bring cash.
• Mindo Cloud Forest: About two hours northwest of Quito, Mindo is ideal for nature lovers. You’ll find hiking trails, birdwatching, and waterfalls.

We didn’t have time for these, but they’re all easy to arrange as day trips from Quito and come highly recommended.

Quito Wrap-Up

Quito surprised us with how much it had to offer in a short time. The historic district gave us a sense of the city’s past, the cooking class gave us a taste of the culture, and the neighborhoods each had their own vibe. When you’re flying in or out of Ecuador, make time for at least two full days here. It’s a practical and rewarding stop that adds depth to any itinerary.

Quito has quickly become one of our favorite cities in Latin America. Do not skip it on your way to the Amazon or Galápagos Islands. Immerse into this city’s culture for a few days of adventure!