Quito Old Town Walking Tour: UNESCO Heritage Site & Local Guide

5.0 (4 reviews) 3–4 hours Free cancellation

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4 reviews

5.0

Quito Old Town Walking Tour: UNESCO Heritage Site & Local Guide — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

Quito Old Town Walking Tour: UNESCO Heritage Site & Local Guide, photo 2 — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

About this activity

Stroll through the UNESCO-listed historic center of Quito, Ecuador's capital, on a guided walking tour that immerses you in the city's rich culture and colonial beauty. This tour is designed for those who appreciate history, architecture, and local life, offering a relaxed pace to fully absorb the charm of the cobblestone streets. Led by an expert local guide, explore iconic sites such as Plaza Grande, La Compañía de Jesús, and the San Francisco Church. Discover hidden courtyards, artisan shops, and viewpoints that showcase the vibrant essence of Quito.

Guided walking tour through Quito's UNESCO-listed historic center
Visit key landmarks including Plaza Grande and La Compañía de Jesús
Engage with local culture through anecdotes and artisan shops
Perfect for history buffs, photographers, and cultural enthusiasts

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At a glance

Duration: 3–4 hours
Confirmation: Instant confirmation
Ticket: Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group: Up to 15 people
People per booking: 1–15
Guide: English, Spanish
Operated by: Real Dreams Tour

Ages: Adults (12–80 years)

What is included

Included

Included: Bilingual Tour Guide
Included: Traditional sweets tasting
Included: Canelazo tasting – traditional drink
Included: Chocolate tasting
Included: Traditional Ice cream

Not included

Not included: tips

Itinerary

Basilica del Voto Nacional

30 min Admission not included

The Basilica del Voto Nacional is one of the largest neo-Gothic churches in Latin America and a true architectural icon of Quito. Inspired by the Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris, its façade is adorned with unique gargoyles shaped like native Ecuadorian animals such as iguanas, turtles, and condors.

One of the highlights of visiting the basilica is climbing its main towers, which offer some of the best panoramic views of Quito’s Historic Center and the surrounding cityscape. The ascent includes internal bridges, steep stairs, and a thrilling experience for those who don’t mind heights.

From the top, you can admire colonial rooftops, nearby churches, and even distant volcanoes like Pichincha. It’s the perfect spot for breathtaking photos and to truly appreciate the scale and detail of this architectural masterpiece.
Stop 2

30 min Admission included

Warm up with a traditional canelazo, a spiced Andean drink, paired with a freshly made empanada during your walking tour through the historic streets of Quito.

This delicious local tasting offers a perfect break while exploring the beautiful plazas of Quito Historic Center.

A simple, authentic way to experience Ecuadorian flavors and culture.
Plaza de la Independencia (Plaza Grande)

30 min Admission included

Independence Square, also known as Plaza Grande, is the historic and political heart of Quito. Surrounded by some of the city’s most important buildings—including the Presidential Palace (Carondelet), the Cathedral of Quito, the Archbishop’s Palace, and the City Hall—this plaza has been a central gathering place since colonial times.

At the center stands the Independence Monument, commemorating Ecuador’s heroes of the 1809 revolution against Spanish rule. The square is beautifully landscaped with palm trees, gardens, fountains, and benches, offering a peaceful space where locals and visitors gather to relax, chat, and enjoy street musicians or cultural events.
Palacio Arzobispal

30 min Admission included

Located in the heart of Plaza Grande, the Archbishop’s Palace is a beautiful colonial landmark showcasing traditional Spanish architecture with elegant arches and historic courtyards.

During the visit, travelers explore its cultural and architectural heritage while enjoying local flavors such as traditional Quiteño sweets, mistelas (local liqueurs)

This stop offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and gastronomy in the heart of Quito.
Fundacion Iglesia de la Compania

30 min Admission included

The Church of the Society of Jesus, known locally as La Compañía, is one of the most iconic and ornate churches in Quito. Its foundation dates back to 1605, when the Jesuits began building what would become one of the greatest architectural masterpieces in Latin America.

Construction of the church took over 160 years, finally completed in 1765. It was designed in the Baroque style, with influences from the Mudéjar and Churrigueresque styles, blending European aesthetics with indigenous artistry. The church’s interior is famously covered in gold leaf, intricate wood carvings, and dramatic altarpieces—earning it the nickname “Quito’s golden church.”
Yumbos Chocolate

30 min Admission included

Yumbos Chocolate is an artisanal chocolate shop in Quito’s Historic Center, known for fine aroma cocoa and fair trade. They offer tastings, chocolate bars, hot chocolate, and unique products. A must-visit for chocolate lovers and those interested in Ecuadorian culture.
Plaza de San Francisco

30 min Admission included

Plaza de San Francisco is one of the oldest and most impressive squares in Quito. Surrounded by colonial architecture, it is dominated by the majestic San Francisco Church and Convent, a historic religious complex that dates back to the 16th century.

This iconic plaza is an important cultural and historical landmark where visitors can admire beautiful stone architecture, learn about Quito’s colonial past, and enjoy one of the most photogenic spots in the city’s historic center.

Meeting point and pickup

Everyone meets at the meeting point.

Meeting point

Your guide will be at the meeting point holding a sign that says “Real Dreams Tour” and wearing a t-shirt with a green turtle logo. Please arrive a few minutes early. If needed, contact us via WhatsApp for assistance.

End point

The tour ends at Plaza San Francisco, one of Quito’s most iconic and historic squares. From here, you can continue exploring on your own, enjoy a local café, or take in the beautiful view of the San Francisco Church. Your guide will be happy to provide recommendations before saying goodbye.