Centro Histórico
Quito
Visit Centro Histórico
Popular places to visit
Catedral Metropolitana de Quito
Discover one of the oldest churches in South America, featuring an intriguing mix of architectural styles, magnificent Catholic artworks and a fascinating history.
St. Francis Catholic Church
This church and monastery complex is as old as the city itself and features stunning 16th-century architecture, a converted catacomb and 3,500 artworks.
El Panecillo
Admire an iconic statue and see panoramic views of Quito and its surrounding volcanoes from this green hilltop in the heart of the city’s Old Town.
Independence Square
Rows of stately colonial buildings and a 16th-century cathedral surround this historic civic square on the site where Quito’s Old Town made its humble beginnings.
Carondelet Palace
Discover centuries of Ecuadorian presidential history and an interesting art display as you explore the rooms of this 17th-century palace.
Plaza de San Francisco
This public square in front of San Francisco Church is a great spot to enjoy the history and culture of the Old Town with views of local landmarks.
Things to do
Mindo Cloudforest and Birdwatching from Quito BY ECUADORTREASURE
Small-Group Quito Legends & Culture Tour
Quilotoa, Culture and Hiking from Quito !!!! ALL DAYS !!! BY ECUADORTREASURE
Full-Day Tour to Quilotoa Lagoon From Quito with Lunch
Full Day Hike and Bike Experience Cotopaxi Volcano with Lunch
Quilotoa Lagoon and Indian Markets in One Day from Quito
Top hotels in Centro Histórico
Hotel San Francisco de Quito
"A beautiful place, next to the centro histórico and major landmarks of Quito, staff very helpful and very friendly"
Reviewed on 27 May 2026
Hotel Plaza Grande
"Very nice hotel ,very unique, i stay again in heart beat, nice room, very good amenities nice view"
Reviewed on 1 Jun 2026
Rossa Mia Hotel Boutique
"Staff were nice and helpful. Location is convenient."
Reviewed on 12 May 2026
Friends Hotel & Rooftop - Historic Center & Museums
"Everything was great!"
Reviewed on 1 Jun 2026
La Casona de la Ronda Boutique Hotel
"Stayed here 2 nights, not a particularly friendly reception greeting or general service, good location, restaurant was a bit disappointing (costly and bang average. Would not go back to be honest"
Reviewed on 25 May 2026
Casona Tobar Hotel - Hotel escuela
"Beautiful hotel with great views of el Panecillo. Right within the centro histórico so lots of sights and museums are only a short walk away. A lovely breakfast, friendly and attentive staff - and great value!"
Reviewed on 9 May 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Centro Histórico
Quito Historic Center
Churches, museums and shopping are just a few things travellers like about Quito Historic Center. Sights like Carondelet Palace and Independence Square are spots to explore, and you can get around the greater Quito area at San Francisco Station.
San Juan
You'll enjoy the museums and monuments in San Juan. You might want to make time for a stop at Centro de Arte Contemporaneo or Palacio de Gobierno.
El Belén
If you're spending time in El Belén, check out sights like National Assembly of Ecuador or Ecuador Central Bank Museum and hop on the metro to see more of the city at El Ejido Station or La Alameda Station.
La Mariscal
La Mariscal is known for its ample dining options, and you can make a stop by Foch Square and La Mariscal Craft Market while in the area.
La Floresta
La Floresta is noteworthy for its restaurants, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Abya Yala Museum and Trude Sojka Cultural House.
Colón
While visiting Colón, you might make a stop by sights like Uio Microtheater and Centro Comercial Multicentro.
