Things to Do in Quito

Nestled high in the Andes at 9,350 feet, Quito actually sits on the slopes of an active volcano, which gives the city its dramatic backdrop and explains why the weather can shift so quickly from sunny to stormy. The historic center is genuinely impressive - it's one of the best-preserved colonial areas in Latin America, with baroque churches and cobblestone streets that haven't changed much since the Spanish colonial period. You'll find yourself constantly looking up at ornate balconies and church facades, though you might need to catch your breath more often than usual thanks to the altitude. What makes Quito particularly interesting is how it stretches north to south in a narrow valley, creating distinct neighborhoods with very different personalities. The old town feels like stepping back in time, while the modern Mariscal district has the energy of any contemporary Latin American city. The surrounding mountains are never far from view, and on clear days you can see snow-capped peaks that seem impossibly close to this equatorial city.

The food scene ranges from incredible $3 lunch menus at local comedores to sophisticated restaurants serving modern Ecuadorian cuisine in the Zona Rosa. You'll find the most authentic and affordable meals in the markets and small family-run places scattered throughout the old town. For dinner, the Mariscal area has the highest concentration of international restaurants, while La Floresta offers a more bohemian dining scene with vegetarian-friendly options. Don't miss trying cuy (guinea pig) if you're adventurous, or stick to safer bets like lomo saltado and fresh trout from the nearby mountains.

Quito's high altitude location near the equator means the weather stays fairly consistent year-round, with daytime temperatures in the 60s-70s°F and cool nights. The dry season from June to September offers the clearest skies and best mountain views, making it ideal for photography and outdoor activities. December through May brings more afternoon rain showers, but they're usually brief and the city looks particularly lush during this period. That said, you can visit any time of year - just pack layers since the temperature can swing 30 degrees between day and night, and the weather can change quickly at this altitude.