The Ecuadorian capital of Quito is well recognized as a global icon due to its nearness to the geographic center of the Earth at latitude 0. Magnificent colonial-era architecture, some of which date back to the 16th century, is another source of awe for tourists visiting Quito. The steep, winding and often cobbled streets of the city’s old core are like a journey through the country’s past.
With so many places to explore for every kind of traveler includes night clubs, restaurants, parks, and plazas where you can relax. If you are thinking off to go there anytime soon with family or friends. Without any doubt, start planning, book jetblue airlines reservations in any class and save up to 45% off on round trips on every flight till the last minute. To assist you, scroll down & find out what awaits in Quito to experience the best.
Both the Church and the San Francisco Main Plaza
San Francisco is located on one of the city’s major squares and is home to one of Quito’s oldest, most beautiful, and largest churches. It began in 1535, the same year the same-name monastery was built, and it took 70 years to complete. The Baroque-style church in Quito is home to a statue of the city’s patron saint, the Virgen Alada de Quito (the winged virgin of Quito), sculpted by Bernardo of Legarda in 1734. The church’s facade is symmetrical, and its entrance is carved out of stone.
Independence Square/Plaza
Located in Plaza de la Independencia, popularly known as Plaza Grande, lies the Palacio de Carondelet, the administrative heart of Ecuador. This plaza serves as the city’s nerve center. The Metropolitan Cathedral, the Archbishop’s Palace, and the Municipal Palace form a triangle around the plaza. It is also the government seat and the country’s largest city. The square’s centerpiece is the Monument of Independence, a memorial built in 1909 to commemorate the first revolt of the War of Independence.
Chapel of the Holy Companions of Jesus (Church of the Company)
The magnificent Jesuit church that stands at one end of San Francisco Square and has its origins in the 16th century was finally completed after 163 years of work. To top it all off, it has the most beautiful decorations of any church in the country. It had been badly damaged by the 1987 earthquake, but repairs were completed in 2002.
An outstanding example of Baroque and Quiteo Colonial styles. Its gold-leafed altars and towering ceiling murals have earned it the “Sistine Chapel of Quito.” The inside and outside of the church are equally intricate.
The National Basilica of the Vote (Basilica of the National Vow)
You can see the Basilica del Voto Nacional from just about anywhere in the city. Its gothic style architecture was inspired by the cathedral in Bourges, France, and makes it the most impressive building of its sort in all of Latin America. In addition, it is undeniably one of the most stunning cathedrals in the region.
The Center of the Earth (Half the World)
Even though Mitad del Mundo is a popular tourist destination, it is nonetheless fascinating to think that you may stand with one foot in each hemisphere. Located about 22 kilometers to the north of Quito, this monument marks the exact midpoint between the northern and southern hemispheres of Earth. As you might guess, this location is home to a made-up colonial town packed with stores and cafés.
In addition to El Panecillo, the Virgin of Quito can be found atop this hill.
Panecillo Hill, located in the center of Quito, is home to one of the city’s most famous lookouts (which literally translates to “bun” in Spanish). The city’s geographic center can be found on this hill. At an altitude of 3035 meters above mean sea level, it is visible from anywhere in the nation’s capital. Panecillo’s current name was chosen by Spaniards at the turn of the 16th century.
Just what steps must be taken to arrive? Or rest?
A few words on the current climate and weather: Quito’s altitude of 2,800 meters, combined with its proximity to the equator, means that the city experiences significant climatic shifts even within the span of a single day. The average temperature in the city is 17 degrees Celsius, with considerably cooler mornings and evenings.
Numerous European and French airlines offer direct flights to Quito. Particularly relevant is the German airline Condor, which has departures from CDG and is based in Frankfurt. Never be afraid to use AirlinesMap to get the cheapest (or fastest) airline to Quito for your precise travel dates.
Conclusion
The capital city of Ecuador has a wide variety of neighborhoods to offer visitors, from the quiet residential neighborhood of La Carolina to the hip and happening neighborhood of La Floresta. Locations such as hotels, youth hostels, and even private homes. So why wait? Plan your trip to Ecuador with AirlinesMap today and customize your travel itineary, to have a mesmerizing experience with your friends and family..!