There are a few neighborhoods within Quito that are most popular for tourists. Each of these options have different benefits and may fit your needs based on the type of traveler you are.
For a Quaint and Central Place to Stay... the Historical Center
This neighborhood is the cultural and historical hub of the city. It is the main tourist location within the city of Quito because it contains all the culture, history, and architecture of the city. It is also the location of all governmental functions in the country of Ecuador, given that Quito is the capital.
The architecture of the historical center is completely protected as a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to the authenticity of the buildings in this part of the city. Because of this, many of the hotels in this region maintain their colonial charm. At a variety of price-points you will find hostels, bed and breakfasts, and luxury establishments that are all designed around the typical courtyard building of the Spanish colonization time.
If you want an authentic and boutique experience in Quito, then this is the area for you. It is bustling with activity during the day but it is much quieter at night, requiring more vigilance. It may be considered less safe in the evening. That being said, it is where many hostels are located and can be a great option if you are planning to concentrate your touring in the historical center.
Where to Eat in the Historical Center
Here are some restaurants and cafes to try in the historical center.
Hasta La Vuelta Señor | $$ | Ecuadorian cuisine in a unique and historical location
Yumbos Chocolate | $ | Ecuadorian chocolate producer with a storefront that explains the chocolate production and sells bars of chocolate. You have to ring the bell to enter the shop. There they will give you the explanation. We highly recommend purchasing a brownie and hot chocolate to enjoy while overlooking Plaza San Francisco.
Restaurante Casa Gangotena | $$$ | Elevated Ecuadorian cuisine in a beautiful hotel
In addition to these restaurants, there are a few street vendors that sell typical street snacks including:
- Huevos Chilenos – fried dough balls (like donuts) coated in honey or sugar
- Tostados – toasted corn
- Espumilla – nicknamed the ice cream that never melts, this is meringue cream that looks like ice cream
- Ponche – a foamy drink of malt, egg, sugar and vanilla often covered with a blackberry syrup. This drink is served by official Ponche vendors in crisp white uniforms
For Those Who Want Access to the Nightlife... the Mariscal and Floresta Neighborhoods
La Mariscal and La Floresta are directly adjacent to one another. These neighborhoods are more residential with a number of restaurants and cafes. They are considered safe areas for tourists while still being relatively close to the historical center. You may still have to take an Uber to travel between these neighborhoods and the historical center, depending on the time of day and the safety situation in the city. (You should ask your hotel or accommodation host about how to get around in these neighborhoods at different times of the day). When staying in La Mariscal, it is recommended to stay near Plaza Foch, the nightlife center of this neighborhood. In both neighborhoods, you can find hotels, bed & breakfasts, and hostels based on your budget and travel preferences.
Unfortunately, after the political unrest that started in early of 2024, these neighborhoods have lost the energy that made them so exciting. In the evenings, they are quiet and do not have the nightlife buzz that they were previously known for. But this isn’t forever! This could absolutely change as people feel more comfortable and safe within the city and the nightlife of the city returns.
Where to Eat in the Mariscal and Floresta Neighborhoods
Here are some restaurants and cafes to try in the Mariscal neighborhood.
Marcando El Camino | $$ | Modern Ecuadorian fusion cuisine with unique and delicious flavors
Tres Gatos | $ | A bookstore and cafe with different nooks and crannies to hang out in or just drink a coffee and read a book.
For Those Who Want an Urban Neighborhood with Great Food... La Carolina
This neighborhood is the financial and business hub of the city. It is a youthful neighborhood with high rises, nice hotels, and boutique accommodations. This neighborhood contains many international and large hotel brands. In addition, this area has many delicious, new, and innovative restaurants to eat interesting and modern takes on Ecuadorian cuisine.
Due to the growing popularity of this neighborhood for tourists, many tour agencies will pick you up from this neighborhood for different tours, making it the ideal location for travelers who want to stay in an active and busy neighborhood without missing out on the tourist areas of Quito. In addition, this neighborhood is well connected to the historic center through the metro lines with two stops within this neighborhood.
Finally, La Carolina is home to the largest park of the city, Parque Carolina which is bustling with activity throughout the day. When walking around the park in the morning, you will find people doing group workouts, students running with their classmates around the track, couples walking their dogs before work, and so many more.
This is our recommended neighborhood within Quito.
Where to Eat in the La Carolina Neighborhood
Here are some restaurants and cafes to try in the La Carolina neighborhood.
De La Llama | $$ | Modern and innovative Ecuadorian cuisine with interesting cocktails as well
Somos Ecuador Restaurante | $$ | Modern Ecuadorian cuisine that combines flavors and techniques from all regions of the country
Benchtime Bakery & Cafe | $ | A Japanese-Ecuadorian bakery and cafe with delicious pastries and great coffee
You can read more about what to do in Quito here.
The Best 3-Day Itinerary to Visit Quito, Ecuador
Everything you need to know to visit Quito, Ecuador, the capital city and often the starting point of some other adventures in Ecuador. This guide includes where to stay and what to do.
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