- Quito, Ecuador, enjoys pleasant spring weather year-round and is known for its vibrant flower production.
- Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1978, Quito has a rich history and well-preserved colonial architecture.
- Quito is easily accessible to American travelers, as the city uses the American dollar and has compatible electrical outlets.
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QUITO, Ecuador – As soon as you step out of the airport, the city of Quito greets you with vibrant views and cool breezes.
Quito is a city that marries the old with the new in a way that can take your breath away – often literally, given its elevation of 9,350 feet. Nestled at the top of the Andes, it's a place where every corner tells a story and every panorama deserves a photo.
Here's why this South American gem should be next on your travel list – not just a stop on your way to the Galapagos Islands.
Imagine stepping off a plane and finding yourself in what feels like eternal spring. This is Quito for you. The city enjoys a mild, spring-like climate all year round, which not only makes it an ideal travel location at any time of the year, but also contributes to its vibrant flower production. Ecuador is one of the largest exporters of roses in the world, and the flowers you find here are nothing short of spectacular.
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“Every Tuesday and Friday, I replace or refresh the floral arrangements Gangotena Houseand without fail, people are drawn to them, often rushing to take photos,” said Cristian Analuisa, a local Florería Cristina florist who works with venues like Casa Gangotena Boutique Hotel, in a statement. “It’s amazing how flowers can transform an environment, creating a welcoming and serene atmosphere.”
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History buffs rejoice
One of the most compelling reasons to visit Quito is its status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city was one of the first places in the world to receive this designation in 1978, when it was recognized for its well-preserved historic center with intricate colonial architecture and cobblestone streets that feel like you have stepped back in time . Walking through neighborhoods like La Ronda, a sense of the past envelops you, with every building and street corner offering a slice of history.
It is difficult to find as much gold adorning a church anywhere in the world as in the Compañía de Jesús Church.
But it's not just the glittering architecture of its churches that will catch your eye. Quito's artisanal skills are evident in everything from the meticulous designs of leather goods by local artisans to the detailed silverware and handmade textiles found in the markets. Without forgetting: chocolate.
While West Africa leads the world in cocoa production and export, Ecuador is one of the largest countries in the world. fine cocoa producers. Fine cocoa is defined by the International Cocoa Organization as “cocoa free from flavor defects while offering a complex aromatic profile that reflects the know-how of the producer.
“Our chocolates, made from Ecuador's finest indigenous cocoa, reflect the country's rich heritage and know-how,” Cristina Camacho, export manager at Minka Gourmet Chocolatesaid in a statement. “Tourists with a passion for authentic cultural experiences are particularly drawn to our artisan creations, which offer a true taste of Ecuador.”
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Is it difficult to get to Quito?
For American visitors, Quito is surprisingly convenient. The city uses the US dollar, so there is no need to worry about exchange rates or finding a new currency. Plus, the electrical outlets are the same as in the United States, which means you can charge your devices without needing a special adapter. These little conveniences can make your trip smoother and allow you to focus more on exploring than logistics.
The city is also very easy to navigate. Its public transport is efficient and simple. You can buy tickets at one of 15 stations with cash or cardbut Quito is also extremely walkable. Venturing through historic neighborhoods on foot is one of the best ways to truly feel the magic of the city. You'll find churches with golden altars, quaint cafes serving Ecuadorian coffee, and street vendors selling local specialties like empanadas and fresh-squeezed juices.
“Once in the city center, I always say that there are three essential and obligatory places to visit in Quito: the Church of the Compañía de Jesus, San Francisco and the Plaza Grande”, Marco Peralvo, Metropolitan tour guide, said. “These places are the city’s most iconic destinations because history and culture burst forth from them every day.”
Three jam-packed days should be enough for travelers to experience Quito's main highlights.
Is the food good in Quito?
No visit to Quito would be complete without indulging in the local cuisine. The city's food markets are sensory overload in the best way possible, filled with scents of fresh herbs, spices and roasted meats. Try a plate of llapingachos (cheesy potato pancakes) or, for the more adventurous, a portion of guinea pig, a traditional Andean dish.
When planning your trip to Quito, remember that while it is a city rich in history and beautiful sights, it is also a place of vibrant and vibrant culture. The warmth of the Ecuadorian people, their traditions and celebrations, and the vibrant city life make it truly memorable.
One place that aims to sum it all up in a digestible way is the Casa Gangotena restaurant, located downtown with only one street separating it from the popular Plaza San Francisco.
“The concept behind our restaurant is called Cocina Mestiza. Our cuisine is a tribute to the ingredients that grow, thrive and flourish in our biodiverse and abundant country, home to spectacular mountain ranges, lush Amazon rainforests, rich Pacific waters and the inspiring Galápagos Islands,” José Tamayo, executive chef of Casa Gangotena. , said in a statement. “With respect, knowledge and culinary verve, we exalt the ingredients, flavors and textures of our origins, transforming them into a culinary experience that is both contemporary and avant-garde: a story of our mixed-race heritage and a celebration of our Ecuadorian identity. .
Who would like to visit Quito?
If you're up for a day trip, the options around Quito are attractive. THE Mindo Cloud Foresta paradise for birdwatchers and nature lovers, is just a few hours away. Or visit the Equatorial Line Monument at Mitad del Mundowhere you can stand with one foot in each hemisphere (with a $5 entry fee for adults). Both places are perfect for families.
Quito offers an enriching blend of history, culture and natural beauty, making it a unique destination that caters to a variety of interests and tastes. Whether you're a history buff, nature lover, or simply looking for a new travel adventure, Quito promises a range of experiences that are both accessible and unforgettable.
“Quito received the title of World Cultural Heritage, but this is possible thanks to thousands of cultural factors located around the city,” Metropolitan tour said guide Marco Peralvo. “What I can say is that every visitor who passes through Quito is always surprised beyond expectation… Quito is always much more than what they imagine.”
Josh Rivera is USA TODAY's senior travel editor. You can connect with him through his newsletter Plot twist.
