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Activity Quito, Ecuador

Private city tour Quito, Colonial Treasures and Local Flavors

5.0 (one review) 8 hours Free cancellation Private tour
Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

Private city tour Quito, Colonial Treasures and Local Flavors

About this activity

Looking for an even more authentic experience of Quito?

Explore the historical and civic heart of the capital. As you admire the monuments commemorating independence and the imposing architecture, such as the Archbishop’s Palace, your guide will help you appreciate the daily life of local residents and will share colonial legends that add intrigue to the surrounding areas of the plaza.

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At a glance

Duration
8 hours
Confirmation
Instant confirmation
Ticket
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group
Your group only
People per booking
1–15
Guide
English, Spanish
Operated by
Andean Roots Travel

Ages: Adults (10–80 years)

What is included

Included

  • Included: Private tour
  • Included: Hotel pickup and drop-off from/to centrally located hotels in Quito
  • Included: Bottle of purified water
  • Included: Professional bilingual Guide

Not included

  • Not included: Snacks: Food and Drinks
  • Not included: Gratuities
  • Not included: Admission fees: La Compania Church
  • Not included: Entrance fees for the Basilica (4 USD pp) and Panecillo (1 USD pp).
  • Not included: Admission fees: The Domes of the Metropolitan Cathedral

Itinerary

  1. Basilica del Voto Nacional

    40 min Admission not included

    Discover the stunning Neo-Gothic architecture and take part in the ascent to the towers and walkways. From the top, enjoy a sweeping panoramic view of Quito’s Historic Center and the city, a memorable sight of the capital with El Panecillo in the background.

  2. Plaza de la Independencia (Plaza Grande)

    20 min

    Explore the historical and civic heart of the capital. As you admire the monuments commemorating independence and the imposing architecture, such as the Archbishop’s Palace, your guide will help you appreciate the daily life of local residents and will share colonial legends that add intrigue to the surrounding areas of the plaza.

  3. Catedral Metropolitana de Quito

    30 min Admission not included

    This activity takes you straight up to the domes, where you can enjoy a unique panoramic view of the Historic Center, a visual privilege offering the best perspective of the city’s landscape and colonial temples.

  4. Fundacion Iglesia de la Compania

    40 min Admission not included

    Discover a true jewel of colonial Baroque art. Widely considered the finest example of this style in South America, it boasts a dazzling interior where gold leaf covers every detail, offering a truly breathtaking visual experience.

  5. Mercado de San Francisco

    40 min

    We’ll make a stop at one of the city’s most traditional markets. Take the opportunity to learn about the rich diversity of agricultural products from the region. This authentic setting offers a calm window into Quito’s daily life, where you can observe local routines and get a closer look at the beliefs and customs that shape its culture.

  6. Quito Old Town

    one hour

    Lunch Time

    Your guide will provide local recommendations, giving you the perfect opportunity to savor authentic Quiteño flavors.

  7. Iglesia y Convento de San Francisco

    15 min

    Discover the San Francisco Church, one of Quito’s earliest and most significant colonial landmarks. As you explore the interior of this monumental church, you will hear captivating local legends and admire the enduring colonial art that defines this emblematic historic space.

  8. El Panecillo

    30 min Admission not included

    We’ll head to this iconic viewpoint to take in a sweeping panorama of Quito. From here, you can clearly see the contrast between the Historic Center and the modern city. Standing at the feet of the imposing Virgin of Quito, the most prominent symbol of Ecuadorian Catholicism

  9. Mercado Artesanal La Mariscal

    45 min

    Step into Quito’s cultural heart, a hub for Ecuador’s ancestral art. Wander through its aisles to discover a mosaic of cultures, featuring everything from Andean textiles and Panama hats to tagua jewelry. Each piece tells a story of local craftsmanship, offering you the chance to take home an authentic souvenir.

    At the end of the tour, we’ll take you back to your hotel so you can relax and enjoy the rest of your evening.

Meeting point and pickup

The operator picks every participant up from their accommodation or the points below.

Pickup points

  • Olympus Plaza
  • Hotel Principe Marcell
  • Torres de Suites Executive Suites & Residences
  • Hotel Cumanda
  • Casa Gangotena
  • Los Alpes
  • Samariwasi Hotel Boutique
  • Dann Carlton Hotel
  • Hotel Quito
  • Adamas House Hotel
  • Hotel Super Chinto
  • Hostal Bolivar Inn

and 191 more pickup points

If your hotel is outside the center of Quito, we can also pick you up but with an extra cost. hotels near the airport for example

Cancellation

Free cancellation

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

If you cancel You get back
At least one day before 100%
Less than a day before 0%

Good to know

  • Wheelchair accessible

  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

  • Service animals allowed

  • Public transportation options are available nearby

  • Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

  • All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

  • Recommended minimum age is 12 years

  • Children must be accompanied by an adult

  • Operates in all weather conditions, weather may vary please dress appropriately

Options

  • Family and Friends

    Driver Guide

    Transport Availability: Special SUV (Up to 4 passengers) or Mini Van available

    Pickup included

  • Grand Expedition

    Driver + Professional guide

    Transport Availability: Mini Van (5 pax + guide) or Mini Bus (6-10 pax + guide)

    Pickup included

  • Mini Group

    Driver Guide

    SUV (Toyota, Renault, Kia)

    Pickup included

Traveller ratings

5.0 out of 5 · one review
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Private city tour Quito, Colonial Treasures and Local Flavors

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