Ecuador on a Shoestring: A 1-Day Adventure

Day 1: Exploring Quito

Quito, Ecuador

8:00AM

Breakfast at Panadería D'Pasillo

Start your day with a delicious breakfast of freshly baked empanadas and a café con leche at Panadería D'Pasillo, a local favorite.
Located in the historic center, it's an easy walk from most central hotels.
CURRENCY3, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit La Basílica del Voto Nacional

After breakfast, take a short walk to La Basílica, an iconic neo-Gothic church where you can climb to the towers for breathtaking views of the city.
Head southeast from the bakery on foot for about 15 minutes.
CURRENCY2, entrance, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Stroll through Plaza Grande

Next, head to Plaza Grande, the main square of Quito, where you can appreciate the stunning architecture and enjoy some people-watching.
A pleasant 10-minute walk from La Basílica.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Mercado Central

For lunch, savor traditional Ecuadorian dishes like hornado (roasted pork) with rice and potatoes at Mercado Central for a very affordable price.
Walk 15 minutes towards Mercado Central, located in the heart of the city.
CURRENCY5, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit La Compañía de Jesús

Explore La Compañía de Jesús, known for its opulent Baroque architecture and stunning gilded interior.
A short 10-minute walk from Mercado Central.
CURRENCY5, entrance, 1 hour

2:30PM

Ride the TelefériQo

Take the TelefériQo, a cable car that offers a stunning ride up to the summit of Pichincha Volcano, where you can enjoy panoramic views of Quito.
Catch a local bus to the TelefériQo station, approximately a 30-minute ride.
CURRENCY8, round trip, 2 hours

5:00PM

Enjoy a sunset at Parque Itchimbía

Spend the late afternoon at Parque Itchimbía, a public park where you can relax and watch the sunset over the city.
Walk from the TelefériQo to the park in about 20 minutes.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at El Mercado

Finish your day with a budget-friendly dinner at El Mercado, where you can enjoy a hearty bowl of locro (potato soup) and a fresh juice.
Return to the city center by taxi or bus, a quick 15-minute journey.
CURRENCY7, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability