Things to do in Quito
Constructed in the palm of a valley on the foundations of an ancient Incan city, Quito is rich with character and offers a range of exciting experiences.
Shopping
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From cool markets to trendy shopping centres, Quito is home to a great variety of shopping hubs. For a traditional market experience, visit Mercado Ipiales, located in the Centro Historico or the jewellery and art hotspot, Parque El Elegido, south of La Mariscal. For a more up-market boutique trip, try Quicentro, the designer department store located in Quito Norte or discover artisan goods at Galeria Ecuador in Centro Historico.
Museums
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Quito offers a range of museums dedicated to the history, art and culture of Ecuador, each providing you with a unique perspective of the nation. Visit the popular Museo Nacional del Banco Central to discover and explore a wide range of art from pre-Inca to current day, or take a trip to the 'middle of the world' at the Intiñan Museum, which explores Ecuador's culture and considers itself home to the 'true' equator.
Entertainment and Nightlife
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Whether you want to dance the night away at a salsateca, enjoy Ecuadorian culture at the ballet or watch the action unfold at a soccer match, Quito has a range of entertainment on offer across the city.
- National Folklóric Jacchigua Ballet at Casa de La Cultura Ecuatoriana
- Soccer matches at Estadio Olimpico Atahualpa
- Live music and theatre at Ocho y Medio
- Dine and dance at El Pobre Diablo
- Beautiful views at Vertigo Rooftop
Dining
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With one of the most diverse ecosystems in the world, Ecuador has an incredible selection of produce, meats and fish on offer. Together with our hosts, we've compiled a list of the top spots to dine out in Quito.
- Traditional, local fine-dining at URKO
- Modern, International cuisine at ZINC Gastro Bar
- Must-try street food at Mercado Central
- Sweet treats at Chez Tiff
- Classic dishes and national favourites at Zazu
- Peruvian Japanese Cuisine at Hanzo
Galapagos
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Celebrated around the world as a number one bucket list activity, the Galapagos Islands are a very small archipegalo off Ecuador's west coast, boasting some of the rarest and longest-lived species in the world. Friendly wildlife, such as the red-footed bobby, giant tortoise and lesser-known lava lizard allow visitors a truly unique up close and personal experience. Take a flight into Baltra Island before catching a bus and ferry to Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island, where the cruise departs. To find out more or help you prepare for your trip, visit Galapagos Conservancy.