History & Architecture
Historic Center of Quito
The central squares, civic architecture, and heritage streets that define the historic core of Quito, Ecuador.
Ecuador
Quito
Destination details
- Coordinates
- -0.2200, -78.5125
- Time zone
- Not available
- Population
- 1,763,275
- Default country currency
- USD
Live Weather & Forecast
Weather in Quito
Real-time temperature and 5-day forecast to help you plan your itinerary and sightseeing in Quito.
11°C
Fog
Feels like: 11°C
Humidity94%
Wind Speed1 km/h
UV Index10 (Very High)
Traveler's Packing & Outfit Advice:
Chilly weather — pack a warm coat, layers, and comfortable walking shoes for city exploration.
5-Day Weather Forecast
TodayModerate drizzle
21°9°
💧 82%TomorrowModerate rain showers
19°9°
💧 100%ThuModerate rain showers
19°10°
💧 100%FriSlight rain showers
16°11°
💧 100%SatModerate drizzle
17°9°
💧 96%City Travel Guide
Visitor & Tourism Guide for Quito
Quito is the national capital and principal cultural hub of Ecuador with a population of approximately 1,763,275. Positioned at coordinates (-0.22°, -78.51°), the city blends regional architecture, active commerce, and cultural heritage.
Best Time to Visit
The optimal window to visit Quito is May through October during the drier tropical window. Situated in the equatorial belt (latitude -0.22°), Quito experiences lower rainfall and more comfortable humidity levels during these months, making overland transit and coastal or nature excursions much easier.
Getting Around the City
- Municipal bus routes and local transit connect Quito's residential quarters with central markets and civic squares in USD.
- Licensed city taxis and regional ride-hailing services provide direct door-to-door transfers across Quito.
- Renting a car or booking a private transfer is well suited for regional routes linking Quito with surrounding destinations in Ecuador.
Local Tips & Recommendations
Exploring Quito on Foot
Schedule walking tours of central Quito during morning or late-afternoon hours for the most comfortable light and active street life.
Local Dining & USD Cash
Sample regional dishes at established local eateries in Quito, and keep small denominations of USD handy for everyday purchases.
Itinerary, Neighborhood & Daily Budget Guide for Quito
Choosing Where to Stay in Quito
As the capital of Ecuador (population ~1,763,275), staying near central transit corridors in Quito significantly reduces daily travel time between museums, embassies, and commercial districts.
Daily Budgeting & USD Payments
All local pricing in Quito is denominated in USD. While major hotels accept international cards, carry smaller USD notes for local taxis, cafes, and neighborhood markets.
Urban Mobility & Regional Day Trips
Located at coordinates (-0.22°, -78.51°) in the UTC time zone, Quito connects to surrounding attractions via municipal transit, taxis, and intercity highways.
Emergency Contacts & Safety in Quito
Emergency services across Quito and Ecuador can be reached at 911 (Unified Emergency: Police, Ambulance & Fire). Keep your hotel's address saved in the local script for smooth taxi navigation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Quito
When is the best time of year to visit Quito, Ecuador?
The optimal window to visit Quito is May through October during the drier tropical window. Situated in the equatorial belt (latitude -0.22°), Quito experiences lower rainfall and more comfortable humidity levels during these months, making overland transit and coastal or nature excursions much easier. You can also check the live weather card on this page for current temperature and wind observations in Quito.
What currency and emergency numbers are used in Quito?
The local currency in Quito is USD, and official emergency dispatch numbers for Ecuador are: 911 (Unified Emergency: Police, Ambulance & Fire).
How many days should I plan for an itinerary in Quito?
A 2-to-4-day stay allows ample time to explore Quito's historic core, cultural museums, local markets, and parks, with an extra day recommended if taking regional excursions.
Should I rent a car in Quito or rely on local transport?
Within central Quito, municipal transit, metered taxis, and ride-hailing apps avoid urban parking hassles, whereas renting a car is advantageous for multi-stop countryside or coastal day trips.
Sights & Tours
Top Attractions & Tours in Quito
Discover premier attractions, cultural landmarks, museums, and scenic destinations in and around Quito.
Culture & Arts
Museums & Cultural Galleries of Quito
Exhibits and cultural institutions showcasing the regional history, arts, and heritage of Quito and Ecuador.
Scenic & Leisure
Public Parks & Scenic Promenades in Quito
Green spaces, family promenades, and outdoor viewpoints across Quito.
Quito travel guide
Reviewed destination facts for Quito, Ecuador, including areas, airport context, and sourced transport when available.
About Quito
Quito (Spanish pronunciation: [ˈkito] ; Quechua: Kitu), officially San Francisco de Quito, is the capital of Ecuador, and the province of Pichincha. It is the largest city in Pichincha and the second-largest city in Ecuador, with an estimated population of 1.7 million in the city and 2.8 million in its metropolitan area. Quito is in a valley on the eastern slopes of Pichincha, an active stratovolcano in the Andes. Quito's elevation of 2,850 meters (9,350 ft) makes it either the highest or the second-highest national capital city in the world. This varied standing is because Bolivia is a country with multiple capitals; if La Paz is considered the Bolivian national capital, it tops the list of highest capitals, but if Sucre is specified as the capital, then it is the second highest behind Quito.
Key facts
Coordinates: -0.2200, -78.5125. Country default currency: USD.
City & Regional Transit
Arriving in Quito & Local Transit
There is no commercial airport located inside Quito. Access is primarily by road via regional coaches, intercity buses, and passenger car services.
Air Passenger Rights
Flight Delay & Cancellation Compensation
Was your flight delayed by more than 3 hours, cancelled, or overbooked? You may be entitled to up to €600 in cash compensation per passenger under international passenger rights regulations. Check your claim eligibility below:
Flight Deals & Search
Flights & Airfare Deals to Quito
Search direct and connecting flights to Quito, and explore the live interactive radar map to compare airline prices.
Direct Flight Search to Quito
Search and compare live flight fares from top airlines with Quito as your final arrival destination.
Accommodations & Stays
Hotels
Explore hotel stays and accommodations in Quito with competitive live rates.
Direct Hotel Search for Quito
Browse hotels, resorts, and vacation apartments with instant confirmation and flexible cancellation.
Car Rental & Road Trips
Rental cars
Compare and book car rentals in Quito from trusted international and local rental brands.
Travel Connectivity & Internet
Instant Travel eSIM in Ecuador
Stay connected with high-speed instant mobile data in Ecuador the moment you land, without swapping physical SIM cards.
Instant 1-minute activation via QR
Keep your WhatsApp & home number active
Premium coverage on top national carriers
Explore More in Ecuador
Nearby Cities & Day Trips
Discover other exciting destinations across Ecuador perfect for day trips and travel itineraries.
Guayaquil (Spanish pronunciation: [ɡwaʝaˈkil] ), officially Santiago de Guayaquil, is the capital of Guayas Province and the seat of Guayaquil Canton. It is the largest city in Ecuador and also the nation's economic capital and main port. The city is located on the west (= right) bank of the Guayas River, which flows into the Pacific Ocean at the Gulf of Guayaquil. With a population of more than 3,000,000, it is the most populous city in the country, the fifth largest in the Andean Community. However, its urban fabric extends beyond its official urban parishes, encompassing nearby cities and parishes, making it the most populous urban agglomeration in the nation, and fifth in the Andean Community.