City tour Quito -All main attractions + all tickets covered

Discover Quito in a Day: All Main Attractions, All Tickets Covered

If you’re looking to get a solid introduction to Quito without feeling rushed or overwhelmed, this all-in-one city tour is a fantastic choice. Priced at $120 per person, and lasting around eight hours, it promises to take you to the city’s most iconic sights—from majestic churches to the equator—plus a chance to enjoy breathtaking views from a cable car ride. The tour is designed for small groups, which means you’ll get more personalized attention, and the entire experience is smooth with all tickets included.

What we truly appreciate about this tour is how it balances cultural insights with scenic moments—you’ll walk through historic plazas, inside centuries-old churches, and even stand on the actual equator. And the small group size makes for a friendly, relaxed atmosphere where questions are encouraged.

A possible consideration? The tour involves walking and some moderate physical activity—climbing towers at the basilica and riding the cable car—so it’s best suited for travelers with a reasonable level of mobility. Also, it’s a full day, so if you’re short on time or traveling with young children, you might want to pace yourself.

This tour fits best for travelers who want to see the highlights without the hassle of planning, enjoy authentic insights from knowledgeable guides, and don’t mind a full day of sightseeing. Perfect for first-time visitors or those wanting a comprehensive Quito experience in one go.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Experience: Tickets, transportation, and guided commentary included, making it easy and stress-free.
• Diverse Attractions: From historic churches and colonial plazas to the equator and stunning city views from the cable car.
• Small Group Size: Up to 10 travelers, offering more personal interaction and flexibility.
• Authentic Local Stops: Chocolate tasting at Yumbos Chocolate lets you indulge in Ecuadorian craftsmanship.
• Moderate Physical Activity: Climbing towers and riding the cable car require some energy, suitable for most travelers.
• Highly Rated: 5-star reviews reflect high satisfaction and knowledgeable guides.

Exploring Quito: A Deep Dive into the Itinerary

Starting at Basilica del Voto Nacional

As your day begins at the Basilica del Voto Nacional, you’ll encounter South America’s largest neo-Gothic church. Its stunning architecture, with towering spires and intricate stained glass, immediately immerses you in Quito’s religious and architectural grandeur. The highlight is climbing one of the towers—offering panoramic views—which are so spectacular they’re nearly impossible to skip. Expect about an hour here, and yes, the admission is included, so no extra fuss.

From reviews, we gather that visitors like Laurie_P appreciated the guide’s punctuality and insight, mentioning how the view from the tower is “amazing and impossible to skip,” a sentiment shared by many who love the chance to see the city from above.

Igreja y Convento de San Francisco

Next, you step into the largest religious complex in South America. The San Francisco Church features impressive colonial architecture, with ornate facades and a tranquil courtyard. Inside, you’ll find a peaceful respite from the bustling city, and the guide will likely share stories about its history and significance. The 25-minute visit, with tickets included, offers a glimpse into Ecuador’s spiritual and colonial past.

Plaza de la Independencia (Plaza Grande)

The heart of Quito’s colonial zone, this bustling square is home to the Presidential Palace and historically served as the political heart during the colonial era. A walk here offers a feel for the city’s historical power center, with the guide pointing out important details. With about 20 minutes allocated, you’ll get to soak in the vibrant atmosphere and snap some photos of the colonial architecture.

The Equator at the Intinan Museum

No trip to Quito is complete without standing on the actual equator. The Intinan Equator Museum allows you to experience what it’s like to be in both hemispheres at once—an experience that’s often described as fun and a little surreal. The hour-long stop includes demonstrations and explanations that make the science memorable and engaging, especially for kids and adults alike. Reviewers like Laurie_P noted that this stop was a highlight, with insightful guide commentary making the experience both educational and entertaining.

Scenic Ride on the Teleférico

The Teleférico is the crown jewel for many visitors. This cable car ride takes you up to 4,000 meters (about 13,000 feet), providing sweeping views of Quito, the surrounding volcanoes, and lush green landscapes. It’s a highlight for photogenic moments and offers a chance to appreciate Ecuador’s dramatic geography. The 1.5-hour round trip, with tickets included, is well worth the effort, and many guests comment on how stunning the vantage point is.

Chocolate Tasting at Yumbos

After descending from the heights, you’ll visit Yumbos Chocolate for a sweet break. Here, you can sample some local chocolate—rich, smooth, and crafted right here in Ecuador. The 20-minute stop is a delightful treat that adds a delicious local flavor to your day. Reviewers appreciated this as a “sweet stop,” giving a chance to relax and indulge.

Inside Visit to El Sagrario Church

Finally, your tour includes an inside visit to El Sagrario Church, an often-overlooked gem with beautiful interior details and a calm atmosphere. It’s a peaceful conclusion to your sightseeing, with just 15 minutes allocated, but enough time to appreciate the craftsmanship.

Practical Details and What to Expect

Transportation is private and included—meaning no waiting around for taxis or buses. This makes your day smoother and allows more time at each stop. The small group size (max 10 travelers) ensures you get personal attention from your guide, who will likely be knowledgeable and enthusiastic, sharing stories and answering questions along the way.

The timing starts at 8:30 am, with a full day’s itinerary that keeps a steady pace but also allows ample time to enjoy each location without feeling rushed. There’s no included lunch, so plan to bring a snack or eat beforehand.

Physical activity involves walking around plazas, climbing a tower, and riding the cable car—expect moderate effort. If you’re comfortable with walking and some elevation, you’ll find this tour manageable and rewarding.

Cost-wise, at $120, this experience offers excellent value considering all tickets, transportation, and guiding are included. It’s a time-efficient way to see Quito’s highlights, especially if you’re short on time or prefer a guided experience that covers everything.

What Past Travelers Say

With a perfect 5-star rating from 57 reviews, visitors are clearly pleased. Laurie_P mentioned, “My tour guide showed up on time and was very knowledgeable,” emphasizing how helpful it is to have a guide who can answer questions and provide context. Many reviewers praise the “stunning views” from the cable car and the insightful commentary at the equator museum.

The small group format also receives praise, with travelers feeling they received more personalized attention and had the chance to ask questions freely. The inclusion of all tickets is another highlight, simplifying logistics and reducing stress.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for first-time visitors to Quito who want a rundown, combining history, culture, and scenery in one day. It suits travelers who enjoy a mix of outdoor activity, cultural exploration, and stunning vistas, and who appreciate guided commentary. Because of the moderate physical activity involved, it’s best for those in good walking condition. It’s also perfect for travelers who prefer an all-inclusive, hassle-free experience rather than piecing together individual visits.

Final Thoughts

This Quito city tour packs a lot into one day, making it an excellent choice for those eager to see the city’s highlights without the stress of planning multiple excursions. The knowledgeable guide, the stunning views from the cable car, and all tickets included make it a practical and value-packed option. Plus, the opportunity to stand on the actual equator and enjoy a local chocolate treat are memorable moments that elevate the experience beyond typical sightseeing.

While it’s a full day, the varied stops, engaging guide, and scenic moments make it worth every penny. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or just want to tick off Quito’s major sights, this tour is a solid, enjoyable way to make the most of your day in Ecuador’s vibrant capital.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, private transportation is provided, making the day seamless and eliminating the need to navigate public transit.

How long does the entire tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, starting at 8:30 am, with enough time at each stop to enjoy the sights without feeling hurried.

Are tickets for all attractions included?
Yes, all entrance tickets—Basilica, San Francisco, the equator museum, the cable car, and El Sagrario—are included in the price.

Is the tour suitable for children or people with limited mobility?
The tour involves some walking, climbing a tower, and riding the cable car, so moderate physical fitness is recommended. Travelers with mobility concerns should check with the provider beforehand.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, full refunds are available if canceled at least 24 hours before the tour. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

Do I need to bring anything special?
Bring comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and a camera. Since lunch isn’t included, consider bringing a snack or eating before the tour.

In the end, this tour offers a well-rounded, hassle-free way to experience Quito’s core sights, scenic views, and local flavors—all in one engaging day with the guidance of passionate, knowledgeable hosts.