Discover Quito’s Historic Center
Walk the cobblestone streets of Quito’s Historic Center and discover a city where history, art and culture meet at every corner. Visit churches, plazas and monuments that tell centuries of tradition, and enjoy one of the most important heritage areas in Latin America.
What to See in Quito’s Historic Center
The Historic Center brings together churches, plazas, museums and colonial streets that invite you to explore at a relaxed pace. These are some of its main attractions:
- Basílica del Voto Nacional: Admire this imposing neo-Gothic church and, if you wish, climb its towers for panoramic views of Quito.
- Plaza Grande: Stroll through Independence Plaza, surrounded by the Carondelet Palace, the Metropolitan Cathedral and other historic buildings.
- Church of La Compañía de Jesús: Discover one of the finest expressions of Quito Baroque, known for its gold-leaf interior.
- San Francisco Plaza and Church: Visit one of the city’s most important religious complexes and admire its plaza surrounded by colonial architecture.
- El Panecillo: Take in the city from the hilltop viewpoint, crowned by the Virgin of Quito.
- La Ronda: Walk along this traditional cobblestone street, known for its balconies, artisan workshops, cafés and cultural atmosphere.
Explore Plaza Grande
Plaza Grande, also known as Independence Plaza, is the heart of the Historic Center. Around it stand the Carondelet Palace, the Metropolitan Cathedral and the Archbishop’s Palace. It is an ideal place to start the tour and get a feel for everyday life in the city.
Visit the Colonial Churches
Quito’s Historic Center is known for its churches and convents. The Basílica del Voto Nacional, La Compañía de Jesús and San Francisco are among the most representative visits. Each one shows an important part of the city’s architecture, art and religious history.
La Compañía de Jesús stands out for its Baroque interior decorated with gold leaf, while San Francisco combines an imposing church, convent and plaza. The Basílica, for its part, offers panoramic views of Quito from its towers.
Enjoy El Panecillo and La Ronda
To end the tour, go up to the El Panecillo viewpoint and take in a wide view of Quito and its Historic Center. Afterward, walk along La Ronda, a traditional street where you can find workshops, cafés, restaurants and cultural spaces.
Private Transportation Through Quito’s Historic Center
With our private chauffeur service you can tour Quito’s Historic Center. Choose between transportation by the hour, half day or full day, depending on your plans. During the tour, the chauffeur can suggest stops and recommend places to make the most of your visit.
If you would like to learn more about the history and culture of Quito, you can request a bilingual guide when requesting your quote, at an additional cost. Travel with comfort and flexibility, with no fixed itineraries, and enjoy each place at your own pace.
Frequently asked questions
About this private chauffeur tour.
How can I book the Quito Historic Center tour, and what are the payment options?
The tour to the Quito Historic Center can be booked through our website, WhatsApp or email at info@jctravelvip.com, indicating the date, pickup location and number of passengers.
To confirm the booking, a 50% deposit is required and the remaining balance is paid on the day of the trip. Credit and debit cards, as well as PayPal, are accepted.
What does the Quito Historic Center tour include?
With our private transportation service you can tour Quito’s Historic Center with a professional chauffeur. Choose between transportation by the hour, half day, full day or several days, depending on your plans. During the tour, the chauffeur can suggest stops and recommend places to make the most of your visit.
Our service does not include entrance fees to churches, museums or additional activities. If you would like to enter any of these places, you can buy the ticket directly on site.
Which places can I visit in Quito’s Historic Center?
You can visit the Basílica del Voto Nacional, Plaza Grande, the Church of La Compañía de Jesús, San Francisco, El Panecillo and La Ronda, among other attractions. If you would like to add another stop, you can discuss it when booking and confirm whether it can be included in the contracted time.
Is the chauffeur also a tour guide?
The chauffeur can guide you and recommend places along the way. If you would like guided explanations about the history and culture of Quito, you can request a bilingual guide as an additional service.
Can I climb the towers of the Basílica del Voto Nacional?
Yes. The Basílica offers access to its towers for panoramic views of the city. Availability and cost of access may vary, so you can confirm directly on site.
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