Free Walking Tour Quito

Join us on a free walking tour of Old Town Quito, and see for yourself why UNESCO named Quito the first world heritage site! Our English and Spanish speaking local guides will take you on a historical and cultural excursion through the rustic and colorful streets of the colonial district.

Visit the main plazas in the center (and maybe even see our president!), the city’s mercado central, world famous colonial churches, and the picturesque architecture and artistry of La Ronda.

Trust our guides to give you one of the most thorough, fun, and interactive tours of this truly rich and unique part of Quito!

More info: www.freewalkingtourecuador.com

Where to meet

Community Adventures Travel Agency
Pedro Fermin Cevallos N6-78 y Olmedo
Quito, Ecuador

Morning tour
Gather at 10:20am.
Tour starts at 10:30am.

Afternoon tour
Gather at 2:20pm.
Tour starts at 2:30pm.

Rain or shine from Monday through Saturday!

Free Walking Tour: Prepare to Be Blown Away by the Beauty of Quito Old Town

Nestled in the center of Quito in Ecuador, Quito Old Town is an architectural masterpiece that is sure to take your breath away. Having changed very little aesthetically since its inception in the 1600s, taking a stroll down the streets of Quito Old Town may feel like a walk down memory lane.

The City of Quito

Quito is the capital of Ecuador and was founded in the 16th century and was built atop the ruins of an Inca city. With an altitude of 2,850 m., it has somehow remained intact all these years, despite an earthquake that nearly crumbled the whole city to the ground in 1917. In fact, Quito has been named the best preserved and least altered city in all Latin America.

The lush cores of La Compañía and the monasteries of Santa Domingo and San Francisco are all specimens of the “Baroque school of Quito,” which is a combination of indigenous, Flemish, Italian, Moorish, and Spanish art.

The Historic Center

Since Quito has been so well preserved, so too has its historic center. The Baroque school of Quito mentioned above can be found all over the city, in every facet of its architecture. In addition to the spiritual citadels listed above, others that were influenced by the Baroque style include the Sanctuary of Guapulco, San Augustin, the Recoleta of San Diego, and La Merced, to name just a few of the main players. They are the principles not only because of their breathtaking architecture, but for their decorative elements as well, such as sculptures, alter pieces, and paintings.

Those who have spent time there have said that the city of Quito does a flawless job of melding a harmonious environ where man and nature collide, making a transcendent creation. The colonizers truly understood how to adapt not only their artistic sensibility, but their practicality when it came to building upon the complex topographical environment. They knew that, while they may have to give up on certain things, with a little bit of math and some serious hard work, they would be able to create a gorgeous city that would not slide off the volcano it was just built on.

The Architecture

The architecture of Quito is arguably the best part of the whole city. But it is not only the gorgeous buildings that you should pay attention to. The streets were designed in a checkerboard pattern that are aligned so precisely that they can act as cardinal points on a compass. The churches, and specifically the Basílica del Voto, were built in the old Gothic way, complete with grotesques and gargoyles modeled after many different animals that are entirely unique to Ecuador. A trip up the elevator to the top of the church gives you a breathtaking view of the city, as well as up-close views of the intricate and stunning stained-glass windows.

Quito Old Town is a fantastic travel destination for anyone looking to enjoy a historical experience during their trip. Quito is basically one big ball of history wrapped up in a beautiful, charming package. Once you arrive, you may never want to leave. You can explore the Old Twon easily with our Walking Tour.