Quito tourism enhanced – iiltacongress.site

Historic Center

UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1978. Walk through 500 years of history in the best-preserved colonial center in Latin America. Visit the magnificent Plaza Grande (Independence Square), the golden baroque interior of La Compañía Church, and the impressive San Francisco Monastery. End your tour in La Ronda, a cobblestone street filled with traditional crafts, live music, and authentic Ecuadorian cuisine.

Duration: 3-4 hours | Best time: Morning (9am-12pm) | Distance from venue: 25 minutes by taxi

Modern Center–North

The contemporary heart of Quito. Explore Carolina Park, the city’s green lung perfect for jogging or relaxing. Visit the Botanical Garden with over 3,000 plant species, browse modern art galleries along Amazonas Avenue, and enjoy world-class restaurants and cafés. The area also houses the National Museum (MUNA) with Ecuador’s finest art collection and the vibrant Mariscal district for nightlife.

Duration: 2-3 hours | Best time: Afternoon (2pm-6pm) | Distance from venue: Walking distance

WHAT TO SEE IN QUITO

Best places in city

Basilica del Voto Nacional

Neo-Gothic masterpiece and Ecuador’s largest church. Climb the towers for breathtaking 360° city views. Look for unique Ecuadorian animals carved instead of traditional gargoyles.

Entry: $2 | Hours: 9am-5pm | Time needed: 1.5 hours

El Panecillo

Iconic hill topped by the Virgin of Quito statue. Offers the best panoramic views of the entire city and surrounding volcanoes. Perfect for sunset photography.

Entry: Free | Best time: 4pm-6pm | Safety: Take taxi up and down

TelefériQo Cable Car

Ascend 4,100 meters above sea level in just 18 minutes. Experience stunning views of Quito, surrounding valleys, and snow-capped volcanoes. Adventure activities available at the top.

Entry: $8.50 | Hours: 9am-8pm | Duration: 2-3 hours total

Guápulo Neighborhood

Bohemian hillside village within the city. Colonial church, art galleries, cozy restaurants, and spectacular valley views. Popular with artists and perfect for a peaceful afternoon stroll.

Entry: Free | Best time: 2pm-5pm | Highlight: Guápulo Church and viewpoint

RECOMMENDED HOTELS

Swissôtel Quito

5-star luxury in the financial district. Features 232 rooms, full-service spa, fitness center, and multiple restaurants. Excellent for business travelers with large conference facilities and executive floors. Located 15 minutes from the airport.

From: $180/night | Distance to venue: 10 minutes | Amenities: Pool, spa, business center

JW Marriott Hotel Quito

Premium location on Amazonas Avenue. Modern 257-room hotel in the heart of the business district. Walking distance to restaurants, shopping, and Carolina Park. Renowned for excellent service and contemporary amenities.

From: $165/night | Distance to venue: 5 minutes walk | Amenities: Gym, restaurant, concierge

Hilton Colón Quito

Historic elegance meets modern comfort. Iconic hotel facing El Ejido Park, operating since 1967. Recently renovated with 262 rooms, multiple dining options, and excellent conference facilities. Central location with easy access to both old and new Quito.

From: $145/night | Distance to venue: 8 minutes | Amenities: Pool, multiple restaurants, park views

ESSENTIAL TRAVEL TIPS

Essential Travel Tips

🏔️ Altitude

Quito sits at 2,850 meters (9,350 feet) above sea level. Drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol the first day, and take it easy during your first 24 hours. Most people adapt quickly, but listen to your body.

🌤️ Weather

Eternal spring climate year-round. Sunny mornings (20°C/68°F), cooler afternoons (15°C/59°F). Pack layers: light clothing for day, jacket for evening. Brief afternoon showers are common.

🚗 Transportation

Safe and convenient options available. Use official taxis or ride-sharing apps (Uber, Cabify). The Ecovía and Trolleybus systems connect major areas. Most attractions are 10-30 minutes from the congress venue.

💰 Currency

US Dollar is the official currency. Credit cards widely accepted. ATMs available throughout the city. Tipping: 10% at restaurants, $1-2 for taxi drivers.

🗣️ Language

Spanish is the official language. English is spoken in hotels and tourist areas. Download a translation app or carry a phrasebook for local interactions.

🛡️ Safety

Quito is generally safe for tourists. Stay in well-lit areas at night, don’t display expensive items, and use official transportation. The congress area is very secure.

Half-Day City Tour (4 hours)

Perfect for busy congress schedules:

Morning: Historic Center (Plaza Grande, La Compañía, San Francisco) – 2.5 hours
Afternoon: El Panecillo viewpoint – 1 hour
End: Coffee in La Ronda – 30 minutes

Total cost: ~$25 including taxi and entrance fees

Full-Day Experience (8 hours)

For those with a free day:

Morning: TelefériQo Cable Car – 3 hours
Lunch: Modern Quito (Carolina area) – 1 hour
Afternoon: Historic Center tour – 3 hours
Evening: Guápulo neighborhood and dinner – 1 hour

Total cost: ~$45 including all activities and meals

WELCOME TO QUITO