Quito — The Highest Capital in the World
Quito is a city to be discovered in layers — both literally and metaphorically. Nestled in a narrow Andean valley at 2,850 meters, the city stretches 50 kilometers from north to south but only 5 kilometers from east to west. Volcanoes rise on either side: Pichincha (4,784 meters) directly above the city, Cotopaxi on the horizon.
The Old Town (Centro Histórico) is the crown jewel: declared the first city in the world to be a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1978, even before Venice and Krakow. Over 40 churches and monasteries, colonial palaces, and bustling plazas are packed into a small area. The dimensions are breathtaking — the churches were built to impress the indigenous population, and they still succeed today.
The Highlights of the Old Town
- Plaza Grande (Plaza de la Independencia) — The heart of the city: Presidential Palace, Cathedral, Archbishop's Palace, and City Hall surround the elegant square. The changing of the guard takes place on Sundays.
- Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesús — The most magnificent baroque church in South America. 7 tons of gold leaf cover the interior — ceilings, altars, columns, every inch shines. The sight upon entering takes your breath away. Entrance: 5 USD.
- Basilica del Voto Nacional — The largest neo-Gothic basilica in South America with gargoyles in the form of Ecuadorian animals (iguanas, turtles, armadillos). Climb the steep ladder into one of the towers for a 360-degree panorama over Quito. Entrance: 4 USD.
- Iglesia de San Francisco — Quito's oldest colonial building (1535), with a huge forecourt. Inside, a mudéjar-influenced ceiling vault and hundreds of baroque artworks.
- La Ronda — The most romantic alley in Quito: restored colonial houses, small craft shops, cafés, and bars. Live music in the evenings and the best atmosphere in the Old Town.
Panecillo & El Teleférico
For the best panoramic views, there are two options: The Panecillo, a hill with the 45-meter-high Virgen de Quito statue, offers views over the Old Town (taxi: 3 USD, not recommended on foot for safety reasons). The TelefériQo takes you in 10 minutes to 4,050 meters on the Pichincha volcano — the view over the entire city and surrounding volcanoes is spectacular. Entrance: 8.50 USD.
💡 Tipp
Don't underestimate the altitude! Quito is at 2,850 meters — headaches, shortness of breath, and fatigue are normal in the first 1–2 days. Drink plenty of water, walk slowly, and avoid alcohol in the first 24 hours. Mate de coca (coca leaf tea) helps.
