Victoria Lupascu 
Ecuador’s capital city is rich in culture and history and home to many architectural marvels. No wonder it was the first World Heritage Site City named by UNESCO! Yes, Quito has so many interesting aspects, and I’m sure you’ll love every minute of your holiday here. So, the next thing you need to think about is where to stay in Quito!
To make your decision easier, I compared all the neighborhoods in Quito, Ecuador, and picked out the 5 top spots.
Now, I can tell you that the best place to stay in Quito is Old Town or the city’s historic center. This is where you’ll find all the top attractions, amazing restaurants, and many of the best hotels in the city.
I’ve also looked through hundreds of hotel lists and found the best options in each recommended area. Better yet, I provide an option for every price category – from luxury to budget! But I’ve noticed that all the accommodations are booking up super fast here, so I highly recommend securing yours in advance to avoid any issues.
Come on, Quito’s Old Town is waiting for us!
Quick Picks for Your Stay
Don’t have the time to read the whole post? Check out the best hotels in Quito Old Town:
Contents
- Quick Picks for Your Stay
- 1. Old Town – where to stay in Quito for the first time
- 2. La Carolina – where to stay in Quito for families
- 3. La Mariscal – the best place to stay in Quito for nightlife
- 4. La Floresta – the trendiest place to stay in Quito
- 5. Bellavista – where to stay in Quito for nature lovers
- Bonus: The best hotels to stay near Quito Airport
- FAQs about where to stay in Quito
- Final words on where to stay in Quito
NOTE: Quito is a hilly city, so you won’t be able to walk everywhere – unless you want to be tired all the time! Consider renting a car, but you can also rely on Uber and taxis. There’s also an extensive public transportation network – it’s reliable and inexpensive. In short, you have plenty of choices for getting around Quito – pick what works best for you!
This map will help you visualize the 5 Quito neighborhoods featured in this post:
- Old Town: for first-timers
- La Carolina: for families
- La Mariscal: for nightlife
- La Foresta: the trendiest place
- Bellavista: for nature lovers
1. Old Town – where to stay in Quito for the first time
Opening the door to the past for its tourists, the Old Town (Centro Historico/Historic Center) is, as the name suggests, the focal point of Quito, and it’s filled with tourist attractions and restaurants. As you can imagine, the Old Town is always bustling with energy, and there’s a constant flow of people exploring the city for the first time.
Luckily, Quito’s stunning buildings have survived to the present without many ‘injuries,’ helping the Historic Center become a Unesco World Heritage site.
If you choose to stay in Old Town, you’ll be within walking distance of Plaza Grande (map), also known as Independence Square. You’ll also be close to two historic churches – the Church of the Society of Jesus (map) and the Basilica of Our Lady of Mercy (map), both very impressive buildings.
You also can’t miss a visit to Iglesia de San Francisco (map), Quito’s oldest church, and the Basílica del Voto Nacional (map), one of the city’s most imposing landmarks.
The Historic Center is one of the best places to stay in the city if you want to learn more about the country’s history. Here, you will also find La Ronda (map), a pedestrian street occupied by the best restaurants in the city and offering a buzzing nightlife scene.
Museum buffs will also find plenty to do in the area! There are quite a few museums around here, but I would single out the Museum of the City for a bit of history and the Yaku Water Museum for some fun time!
Finally, for some shopping, head to Centro Comercial El Tejar (map), a shopping mall that offers a wide variety of clothes at affordable prices. It’s also a good place to grab a quick bite and see how the locals live!
I can’t forget to mention that the hotels in this neighborhood sell out super fast! It’s one of the best areas to stay in Quito, so naturally, all the tourists will want a spot here! I highly recommend booking your room a few months early if you can.
Finally, the best for last! Go on a 45-min drive North of the Quito Old Town to reach the Middle of the World City (map) monument. This stone monument is placed directly on the equator, so you’ll have the unique opportunity to place one foot in the Southern Hemisphere and one in the Northern!
TIP: You can rent a drive and make the drive to the Middle of the World City, but I recommend going on a guided tour (I like this one) so you don’t have to worry about transport or tickets!
Located in Quito’s San Francisco Plaza, this hotel has a chic design, offers great views of the city, and provides free breakfast! The rooms are super spacious, and you can sign up for different activities or relax all day long at the spa center.
Other accommodation options in Old Town
This boutique hotel has a great location near La Ronda, and it offers room service, a terrace, and free Wi-Fi
You can play tennis at this hostel, and you’ll also be super close to San Francisco Plaza and La Ronda
Located in a colonial house, this apartment has 2 spacious rooms, a kitchen, and a balcony
Things to do in the Historic Center
- Check out the colonial architecture in Plaza Grande
- Stop by the Church of the Society of Jesus and the Basilica of Our Lady of Mercy
- Admire the architecture of Iglesia de San Francisco and Basílica del Voto Nacional
- See some pre-Columbian art at Casa del Alabado
- Grab a drink on Calle De La Ronda in Quito
- Explore Quito’s best attractions during a guided tour
- Visit the Museum of the City and the Yaku Water Museum
- Do some shopping at the Centro Comercial El Tejar
- Embark on a guided tour to the Middle of the World City
2. La Carolina – where to stay in Quito for families
Probably Quito’s greenest and safest area to stay in, La Carolina is a neighborhood located 4 miles (6 km) Northwest of Old Town. I recommend this as the best area to stay in Quito for families planning a trip to Ecuador’s capital.
La Carolina is focused around a park with the same name as the neighborhood. La Carolina Park (map) is super huge and is the perfect place to bring the kids to play, have a picnic, or relax. The Quito Botanical Gardens are also located within La Carolina Park and are well worth a stop.
In addition to the gardens, you will also find a few other cool things to explore with the family. The Vivarium is home to various Ecuadorian amphibians and reptiles, while the National Institute of Biodiversity has a great exhibition on the many animal species living in Ecuador.
As it is located near the park, there’s a sort of peacefulness that you encounter only in natural spots, making the neighborhood the perfect place for tourists who aren’t big fans of the city noise.
At the same time, this is also one of the more modern areas and the city’s financial district, so you’ll find all the facilities you and your family need here, plus some excellent restaurants and shopping malls, like the Centro Comercial Iñaquito (map) and El Jardín Mall (map).
Willing to venture outside the area? I hope you are because one of the best things to do in Quito awaits – a ride on the TelefériQo Cable Car! The cable car will take you to Pichincha Volcano, an active stratovolcano (not dangerous!).
The cable car departs from the outskirts of the city (map), but it’s just a 20-min ride from La Carolina. You can either get a taxi through WelcomePickups or rent a car, depending on your plans for the rest of the trip. Believe me, it’s totally worth it – you’ll get the absolute best views of the city!
Go for a swim in the pool after a day of exploring the tourist attractions and restaurants in Quito! This fantastic hotel has a fitness area, family rooms, and a buffet breakfast for its guests.
Other accommodation options in La Carolina
Enjoy your stay in Quito, Ecuador, in this hotel that offers room service and family suites
Have a family dinner at the restaurant of this Quito hotel that has a spa center and spacious rooms
Admire the city views and chill in the jacuzzi while staying in this apartment with a shared pool
Things to do in La Carolina
- Spend a fun day with the kids in La Carolina Park
- Visit the Quito Botanical Gardens
- See some reptiles at the Vivarium
- Learn about Ecuador’s animal species at the National Institute of Biodiversity
- Go shopping at Centro Comercial Iñaquito or El Jardín Mall
- Venture out of the neighborhood and go for a ride on the TelefériQo Cable Car
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3. La Mariscal – the best place to stay in Quito for nightlife
Looking for the hub of Quito nightlife? Well, you’ve come to the right place because I’m about to talk about the La Mariscal area. Also known as Mariscal Sucre, this is the best area to stay in Quito for backpackers and people who want to bar hop!
Located 2 miles (3 km) Northwest of Quito’s Historical Center (Old Town), La Mariscal promises the best of both worlds, meaning that you can easily spend a quiet afternoon at one of the cafes or restaurants, do some people-watching, and explore the area. Then, during the night, you can drink cocktails and listen to some live music!
Plaza Foch (map) in La Mariscal is the place to be once the sun sets over the city. That’s where you’ll find the most significant concentrations of clubs and restaurants. Whether you like rock music or want to hear some Latino music, you’ll find every genre here!
Because it’s such a hip place, La Mariscal is filled with foreigners and tourists alike, so you will never feel alone. You’ll most likely find fellow travelers, and what better way to make new friends than over a glass of wine?
FUN FACT: Panama hats actually come from Ecuador! The country started producing straw hats and named them Panama hats because they were shipped to Panama and worn by the people working on the Panama Canal!
But if you want to immerse yourself in a more local atmosphere, you need to check out La Mariscal Artisan Market (map). This covered market hosts an abundance of vendors selling clothes, jewelry, and other cool crafts – the perfect place to get a souvenir!
For some extra cultural immersion, head North to the outskirts of the neighborhood to visit Mindalae (map), Ecuador’s ethnohistoric and crafts museum. Through fun exhibitions, you can learn a lot about the country’s history.
Situated just steps away from Quito’s Artisan Market, this 5-star hotel features an elegant restaurant serving local and international cuisine, a French bakery, and a coffee station. Other facilities for guest use include a fitness center, an indoor swimming pool, and a 24-hour business center.
Other accommodation options in La Mariscal
I love the design of this boutique hotel set in a modern colonial mansion, with a bar and free Wi-Fi
Stay in one of the best Quito hostels, offering tastefully decorated rooms, a tour desk, and luggage storage
Enjoy your stay in Quito, Ecuador, in this spacious apartment that offers excellent city views and a kitchen
Things to do in La Mariscal
- Head to Plaza Foch and check out the bars
- Dance all night at Bungalow 6 (map)
- Go for a walk in the nearby El Ejido Park (map)
- Have a delicious dinner at Fairuz restaurant (map)
- Get some souvenirs from La Mariscal Artisan Market
- Visit Mindalae, the ethnohistoric and crafts museum of Ecuador
4. La Floresta – the trendiest place to stay in Quito
Located 3 miles (4 km) Northwest of Quito’s Old Town and directly West of La Mariscal, this colorful and bohemian neighborhood is one of the best places to stay in Quito for coffee lovers, artists, and students!
La Floresta is a paradise for foodies! You’ll see so many food trucks that you’ll want to stop at each and every one. Who can’t say no to those deliciously looking fruits?
There’s even a local fair in this area of Quito. It’s called Mercado De La Floresta (map) and offers traditional Ecuadorian food! So, if you happen to be in the neighborhood on a Friday (between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m.), don’t miss it!
As you explore the neighborhood on the lookout for the best food trucks, you’ll probably notice a lot of local street art. La Floresta is famous for that! You may also get distracted by the neoclassical mansions from the 20th century.
After you try a few of the food trucks, you might want to dine in a more upscale atmosphere. If so, try Casa Warmi (map), an amazing Ecuadorian restaurant with a pleasant interior. Once you’re done with your delicious meal, you can treat yourself to some dessert, and there’s no better place for it than Paccari Experience House (map)!
There’s always something to do in La Floresta during the day so don’t expect less than that at night. That’s when the tavernas and restaurants/pubs open, so if you’re up for a cocktail, you’ll find some cool spots in this neighborhood. But if you’re up for a quieter night, you can catch a movie at the Ocho y Medio movie theater.
Finally, if you still find yourself looking for activities, head to the nearby neighborhood of Guápulo (a 10-min drive from La Floresta). Once you’re here, hike up to El Mirador De Guapulo (map), a viewpoint from where you can enjoy the best views of the city.
And here are the best hotels in La Floresta, Quito:
With 5 restaurants on-site and 2 swimming pools, it will be hard to leave the hotel and head to town to explore! Providing all the comfort you need and a great location, this hotel in Quito has a modern design, spacious rooms, and free Wi-Fi.
Other accommodation options in La Floresta
This boutique hotel has such an excellent design! Guests can order breakfast and get access to a backyard
This Quito accommodation is great for budget travelers, offering both private and dormitory rooms, shared bathrooms, and private parking
Minimalistic and simple! This spacious apartment offers amazing city views, 2 bedrooms, and a full kitchen
Things to do in La Floresta
- Attend the Mercado De La Floresta
- Enjoy a delicious Ecuadorian meal at Casa Warmi
- Eat lots of chocolate at Paccari Experience House
- Explore the area and admire the local street art
- Catch a movie at the Ocho y Medio movie theater
- Head to the Guapulo neighborhood and enjoy the views from El Mirador De Guapulo
5. Bellavista – where to stay in Quito for nature lovers
Located 4 miles (7 km) Northwest of the Old Town, Bellavista is one of the top areas to stay in Quito, Ecuador, if you’re craving some time in nature. Although it’s primarily a residential neighborhood, this area appeals to people to spend their holiday relaxing, taking walks and spotting different animals.
A big part of the neighborhood is made up of the Metropolitan Park of Quito (map). The park is super big, though, and a large portion of it doesn’t fall within the neighborhood’s borders. You can still spend your days exploring the hiking trails and climbing the hills that overlook the city. And maybe, if you’re lucky, you may be able to spot one of the native llamas!
There are also a handful of restaurants in this area of Quito – Carmine (map) stands out for its authentic Italian cuisine and De La Llama (map) serves delicious local specialties.
FUN FACT: Ecuador is the only country in the world named after a geographical feature – the equator!
The famous Capilla del Hombre museum, which showcases artworks by Latin American artists, is also located here. The Atahualpa Olympic Stadium (map) is also nearby, so if you’re a soccer fan, you might want to check whether there are any games on the schedule.
A top-rated hotel offering upscale facilities such as a sauna, an indoor pool, and a fitness center. Guests can also dine at the on-site restaurant, grab a drink at the bar, or enjoy the views from the terrace.
Other accommodation options in Bellavista
Drink your coffee on the balcony and get ready for a new day at this hotel that has family rooms
Feel as if you’re at home during your stay in Quito at this B&B that has a bar and rooms with city views
Elegant and minimalistic accommodation where guests have access to a pool, a fitness center, and fast Wi-Fi
Things to do in Bellavista
- Explore the hiking trails in the Metropolitan Park
- Check out the beautiful art at Capilla del Hombre
- Enjoy the food at Carmine and De La Llama
- Admire the art exhibitions at Casa Museo Guayasamín
- Stop by the Atahualpa Olympic Stadium and see what’s on
- Spend a fun day at an Escape Room
| 👑 Luxury price: | US$240 |
| 💵 Mid-range: | US$140 |
| 🛏️ Budget: | US$90 |
| 📍 Best area: | Old Town (Historic Center) |
| 🛎️ Best luxury hotel: | Hotel Casa Gangotena |
| 🧳 Best mid-range hotel: | Casa Hotel Las Plazas |
| 👛 Best budget hotel: | Masaya Quito |
Bonus: The best hotels to stay near Quito Airport
Just passing through the city on your way to another destination? Then you might be looking for some hotels in Quito near the airport! If that’s the case, you’re lucky because I’ve made a list of the best accommodations there!
Here is a list of hotels from most to least expensive:
- Luxury ($$$): Wyndham Quito Airport – this hotel is just 1 km (o.6 mi) away from the airport and offers a free airport shuttle, air-conditioned rooms, access to a spa and a swimming pool, and free parking.
- Mid-range ($$): Apricot Hosteria – situated 7 km (4.3 mi) from the airport, this 3-star hotel provides airport transfers free of charge, family rooms, continental breakfast, and free private parking.
- Budget ($): Hotel Residencial El Viajero – a budget hotel 3 km (1.8 mi) from the airport, providing airport transfers at an additional charge, free Wi-Fi and parking, and a complimentary breakfast.
FAQs about where to stay in Quito
🇪🇨 Where should I stay in Ecuador?
The capital of Ecuador, Quito, is one of the best places to stay in the country! It offers many excellent areas, historical attractions, and unique attractions. Plus many great hotels such as Hotel Casa Gangotena and Casa Hotel Las Plazas in Quito’s Old Town.
📅 How many days do you need in Quito?
The ideal amount of time for your trip to Quito, Ecuador, is 4 to 5 days. During this time, you can explore all the best areas of the city and its incredible attractions.
✅ What is the safest area in Quito?
La Carolina is one of the safest areas in the city, which is why I recommend it as the best neighborhood to stay in Quito if you’re traveling with family. However, all of the areas recommended in the article are generally safe – you have nothing to worry about!
🚶 Is Quito a walkable city?
No. Unfortunately, Quito is not a very walkable city – it’s located high in the mountains, and the streets can get quite steep and hilly. Luckily, you can rely on public transportation, taxis, and Uber – all affordable methods for getting around the city.
❌ What areas to avoid in Quito?
Some of the areas to avoid on your trip to Quito include Eugenio Espejo, Manuela Saenz, and Quitumbe. To be super safe, stick to the areas recommended in this post!
Final words on where to stay in Quito
What an amazing location! I hope this post helped you decide where to stay in Quito, Ecuador, and which hotels to pick.
I know the decision-making process is hard. That’s why I want to help and offer you my top 2 favorite options, both located in Old Town, the best place to stay in Quito, Ecuador:
- Hotel Casa Gangotena – a colonial-style hotel that offers panoramic views of Quito Old Town
- Casa Hotel Las Plazas – An elegant hotel that has a sun terrace and offers room service
Just remember what I said earlier about these places to stay in Quito, Ecuador, they are the best of the best, so you’ll have to book them in advance to secure a room.
Now, this is where I say my goodbyes! I think we’ve had a lovely virtual trip to Quito, Ecuador, and I’m excited for you to go there in person. I want to hear all about it, so leave me a comment below! Or if you have any questions about the city and its hotels, I’ll answer them ASAP!
Safe Travels,
Victoria
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