Walking Tour in Quito

General information

Group size

15 max

Starting time

Check our calendar!

Duration

2 hours

Price

From 30 USD

Language

English

Walking Tour in Quito

This walking tour in Quito explores the city’s historic center, beginning at Plaza San Francisco, a square that has served as a civic and religious gathering place since the 16th century. Along the route, travelers will see colonial-era streets and visit significant landmarks such as the Church of the Society of Jesus, known for its Baroque architecture and gold-leaf interiors, while learning about the urban development and historical events that shaped Quito over the centuries.

Highlights

  • Explore Plaza San Francisco, the heart of Quito’s historic center, where centuries of civic and religious life converge.
  • Discover the Church of the Society of Jesus, a Baroque masterpiece filled with intricate gold-leaf artwork.
  • Walk along Camino de Garcia Moreno, tracing the streets that reveal Quito’s colonial urban layout and history.

Meeting point

Meet your guide at Plaza San Francisco.

Itinerary

The tour begins at Plaza San Francisco, a historic square in Quito’s city center. The plaza is named after the nearby Church and Monastery of San Francisco, which dates back to the 16th century and is one of the oldest architectural complexes in Quito. Visitors can observe the colonial-era stone and wood construction and the plaza’s role as a civic and religious gathering place throughout the city’s history. From here, the tour continues through the surrounding streets, which feature a mix of colonial architecture and public spaces that reflect Quito’s historic urban layout.

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Next, the tour moves to the Church of the Society of Jesus, also known as La Compañia de Jesus. This church, built in the early 17th century, is renowned for its Baroque architecture and extensive use of gold leaf on interior surfaces. Travelers will notice the detailed carvings, wooden altars, and ceiling artwork that demonstrate the craftsmanship of Jesuit architects and artisans. Following this visit, the route leads to Plaza de la Independencia, the central square of Quito. The plaza is bordered by government buildings, including the Presidential Palace, and it has served as a focal point for political and cultural events in Ecuador’s history.

The final segment of the tour passes by Camino de Garcia Moreno, a historic street in the old town, before reaching the Quito Metropolitan Cathedral. This cathedral, dating to the 16th century, has undergone several reconstructions following earthquakes and reflects a mix of architectural styles including Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque. Visitors can observe its high ceilings, ornate chapels, and religious artwork. Along the way, travelers will also experience the traditional street layout and urban heritage of Quito, providing context for how the city developed from its colonial origins into the modern capital it is today.

Frequently asked questions

What is the maximum of participants?

The maximum of participants is 15 people.

Can I pay with something other than PayPal?

Yes, after clicking on “Pay with PayPal” and the PayPal window opens, you will see the option to pay with a debit or credit card.

Can I book a private walking tour?

Yes, you can book a private walking tour by contacting us straight via email.

Can I bring my children?

Yes, in this walking tour in Quito everyone is welcome.

What should I bring?

Check out the weather on the day of the tour to make sure you bring an umbrella in case it’s raining. Bring comfortable shoes and a big smile 🙂