Centro Histórico Travel Guide
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.
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.
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.
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
Full-Day Tour to Quilotoa Lagoon From Quito with Lunch
Small-Group Quito Legends & Culture Tour
Quilotoa, Culture and Hiking from Quito !!!! ALL DAYS !!! BY ECUADORTREASURE
Night Tour in Quito with free time at Old Town
Full Day Hike and Bike Experience Cotopaxi Volcano with Lunch
Quito: Middle of the World, Intiñan Museum, Cable Car, Craft Market
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
"The hotel was beautiful and the staff super helpful. The exterior walls are very thin and we had trouble sleeping because of all of the outside noise. The bed is also very hard."
Reviewed on 24 May 2026
Casa Gangotena
"Everything was perfect. Highly recommend this hotel. Staff was very accommodating. They even delivered a boxed breakfast at 3 AM so we could be on our way to the airport. Just an amazing experience."
Reviewed on 12 May 2026
Friends Hotel & Rooftop - Historic Center & Museums
"We loved this place. Wonderful staff. Great location. Authentic but not rustic. On a pedestrian street close to everything..you won't go wrong staying here"
Reviewed on 27 May 2026
Rossa Mia Hotel Boutique
"Staff were nice and helpful. Location is convenient."
Reviewed on 12 May 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
Check Centro Histórico hotel availability
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.
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 Mindalae Museum.
La Colon
If you're spending some time in La Colon, Uio Microtheater and Mindalae Museum are top sights worth seeing.
