Free cancellation
Activity Quito, Ecuador
Authentic Quito: Old Town, Domes & National Museum
out of 5
6 reviews
About this activity
Step into the heart of Quito and experience the ultimate journey through history, culture, flavors, and local life. This immersive tour connects the city’s most iconic landmarks into one unforgettable adventure designed for curious travelers who want more than just photos — they want stories, meaning, and authentic experiences.
Walk through the majestic San Francisco Square and admire the stunning Church of the Society of Jesus, including exclusive access to its breathtaking domes for panoramic views of the Old Town. Explore Plaza Grande, the city’s political and historical center, and wander the charming street of La Ronda, where you’ll observe traditional artisan workshops such as goldsmithing and tin craftsmanship.
Enjoy a complimentary chocolate tasting, sample traditional Quiteño sweets, and try a unique Ecuadorian fruit ice cream made from exotic local fruits. Complete your cultural journey at the Museo Nacional del Ecuador, traveling like a local on the modern Metro de Quito.
At a glance
- Duration
- 1–4 hours
- Confirmation
- Instant confirmation
- Ticket
- Mobile or paper ticket accepted
- Group
- Your group only
- People per booking
- 1–10
- Guide
- English
- Operated by
- Instinto Ecuador Tours
Ages: Infants (1–5 years) · Children (6–9 years) · Youth (11–16 years) · Adults (18–59 years) · Seniors (65–75 years)
What is included
Included
- Included: Public transportation (bus, subway, cable car, etc.): Public transportation
- Included: All Fees and Taxes
Not included
- Not included: Tips
- Not included: Entrances to places not included in the tour
Itinerary
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30 min
San Francisco Square is one of the most iconic landmarks in the Historic Center of Quito. On this guided tour, you will explore the impressive Church and Convent of St. Francis, one of the most important colonial religious complexes in Latin America, known for its grand architecture, beautiful courtyards, and remarkable artwork from the Quito School.
Your guide will explain the history, legends, and cultural significance of the square while walking through its surrounding streets, discovering traditional shops, local cafés, and representative landmarks of the area. There is also the option to visit nearby museums for a deeper cultural experience.
To complete the journey, enjoy a complimentary chocolate tasting featuring Ecuador’s world-famous cacao. This tour blends history, culture, architecture, and local flavors into one unforgettable experience in the heart of Quito.
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Fundacion Iglesia de la Compania
one hour Admission included
Discover one of the architectural jewels of the Historic Center of Quito with a guided visit to the breathtaking Church of the Society of Jesus. Famous for its stunning gold-leaf interior and exquisite Baroque design, La Compañía is considered one of the most beautiful churches in Latin America.
During the tour, your guide will share the history, artistic details, and cultural importance of this masterpiece while you admire its intricate altars, carvings, and symbolism. The experience also includes access to the domes, where you can enjoy a unique perspective of the church’s architecture and spectacular panoramic views of Quito’s Old Town.
Surrounding streets offer charming plazas, traditional shops, and historic landmarks that enrich the visit. This experience combines art, history, architecture, and unforgettable views in the heart of Quito.
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Plaza de la Independencia (Plaza Grande)
one hour
Plaza Grande, officially known as Plaza de la Independencia, is the historic and political heart of Quito. Surrounded by iconic landmarks such as the Carondelet Palace, the Metropolitan Cathedral, and the Archbishop’s Palace, this square tells the story of Ecuador’s independence, colonial past, and modern identity.
On this guided tour, you will discover the history, architecture, and daily life that bring the square to life. Your guide will share fascinating stories, local traditions, and hidden details while exploring the surrounding streets and emblematic buildings.
To make the experience even more authentic, enjoy a tasting of traditional Quiteño sweets and a classic Ecuadorian fruit ice cream made from exotic local fruits you may have never seen before. This tour blends history, culture, and flavors into a truly memorable experience.
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30 min
Explore the charm of La Ronda, one of the most traditional and picturesque streets in the Historic Center of Quito. Known for its colonial houses, cobblestone pathways, and bohemian atmosphere, La Ronda has long been a meeting place for artists, musicians, and storytellers.
On this guided experience, you will walk through this vibrant street while learning about its history, legends, and cultural importance. A highlight of the tour is visiting renowned artisan workshops, where you can observe traditional crafts such as gold and silver orfebrería (jewelry making) and hojalatería (tin craftsmanship). You’ll see skilled artisans at work, preserving techniques passed down through generations.
Surrounded by local cafés, galleries, and traditional shops, La Ronda offers a unique glimpse into Quito’s artistic soul. This tour combines history, craftsmanship, and authentic local culture in an unforgettable setting.
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Museo Nacional del Ecuador
one hour Admission included
Discover the rich history and cultural diversity of Ecuador with a guided visit to the Museo Nacional del Ecuador, the country’s most important museum. Located in Quito, this impressive space offers a complete journey through Ecuador’s past — from ancient pre-Columbian civilizations and archaeological treasures to colonial art and contemporary culture.
Your expert guide will help you understand the evolution of Ecuadorian identity, traditions, and artistic expressions, giving you a deep and meaningful overview of the country from its origins to modern times.
The experience also includes transportation on the Metro de Quito, considered one of the most modern and efficient metro systems in South America. Traveling like a local adds a dynamic and authentic touch to the tour.
This experience combines history, culture, innovation, and local life, offering a complete introduction to what Ecuador is truly about.
Meeting point and pickup
You can be picked up from your accommodation or go straight to the meeting point.
Meeting point
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Entrance of the Hotel Casa Gangotena at San Francisco Plaza
End point
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Entrance of the Hotel Casa Gangotena at San Francisco Plaza
Pickup points
- Casa Gangotena
Let us know your pick up point
Cancellation
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
| If you cancel | You get back |
|---|---|
| Less than a day before | 0% |
- The operator may cancel if the weather does not allow it; you then get another date or your money back.
- The operator may cancel if too few people book; you then get another date or your money back.
Good to know
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Suitable for all physical fitness levels
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Authentic Quito: Old Town, Domes & National Museum
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