Quito travel guide

In Ecuador, there are a few artisan markets that get all the hype: Otavalo for tourists or the more 'authentic' Saquisilí market to name a few. But for those with not quite enough time in the country or just transiting Quito on the way to Galapagos, there's still a place to pick up some local souvenirs. In the Mariscal district, downtown Quito, the Mecado Artesanal La Mariscal is a fine place to bargain away for a variety of handicraft, textiles, coffee and all other sorts of goodies to take back home to the family as evidence of your visit. While it may lack the pizzazz of bigger markets, it gets the job done.

While wandering through the wonderful Historic Centre of Quito, it is understandable that a felling of church-apathy can take over. But the Basilica del Voto Nacional is not just another church. While it's imposing position and dramatic architecture dominate the historical centre's skyline, this is a place where it's what inside that counts (more specifically, what's upstairs). Climbing up and in and through the attic and spires of the basilica is most certainly one of the big highlights of Quito. That is if you can handle small spaces, death defying ladder climbs and dizzying heights. The unparalleled access to the upper reaches of the basilica allow for some of the best views of Quito. Breath taking in more ways than one.

Superstition can be powerful. When mixed with religion you get some amazing, and sometimes odd things. In El Quiche, a satellite suburb of Quito, one of these odd traditions take place. 7 days a week (busiest on the weekends) Quito-ites drive to the tiny town, with its miracle granting 'church', in order to have their newly purchased car blessed by a priest. While the idea itself can seem quite odd to some people, it seems commonplace to locals who line up (sometimes for hours) to ensure a happy ride and a long life. It's not much of a show, but what the tradition lacks in grandeur it makes up for in quirkiness. The perfect getaway for those looking for something just a little bit different.

In a green movement aimed at fighting commuter congestion, minimizing urban pollution and improving health, many major cities around the world have implemented a community bike system. Quito's BiciQ stations are no different. But Quito takes it one step further. Every Sunday morning, many of the city's main thoroughfares, stretching from the Historic Centre to the New City, are shut done allowing hundreds of locals to take over the streets with their bikes. Young people, old people, families and every other possible group take to the roads in a great display of community. While tourists are not allowed to take advantage of the BiciQ system, various other places will rent a bike for the morning. It's an easy and fun way to immerse yourself in the fun and great a unique perspective of the city.

On first glance, any traveller might think "why would I go to a park?" But in Quito, El Ejido Park seems to be at the centre of it all. Besides being a major transport hub, the park seems to be at the confluence of any number of human rivers. The park swells on the weekends with families, lovers and general merry-makers making it one of the best people watching places in the city. Beyond that, some 1,400 local plant species are labelled to make it a sort of impromptu botanical garden. But the real jewel in the crown, and the big draw for visitor, is the weekend market that circumnavigates the park. Some surprisingly good deals can be had. Then, once you've 'shopped-till-you-dropped", chilling out with an ice-cream, watching the world go by is an excellent way to recharge.

Ask any local what to see when visiting Quito and undoubtably the answer will be the Historic Centre. If you further inquire as to what the #1 attraction in the old city is, the likely reply will be El Panecillo. A giant mound of Earth, seemingly erupting out of the historic centre, El Panecillo offers unparalleled views over the old city and Quito in general. So as not to be a one-hit viewing wonder, in 1976 a 45-meter tall aluminium monument of the virgin was placed atop the hill. Visible from nearly anywhere in the city, it is most definitely THE landmark of Quito. The general consensus is it not a good idea to walk up (safety reasons), but for only a couple dollars in a taxi the priceless views are certainly worth it!

There's no secret that Latin America is soccer (sorry... football) mad. Quito is no different. There is perhaps no better way to be among the people that at a football match. In Quito, there is likely no place better than the national stadium, Estadio Olimpico Atahualpa. This 1951 gem is not what you'd expect from a national stadium. Little has changed since, other than a 1977 expansion. Making the experience better than joining the crowd in a sports time machine is the back drop it all takes place in. With the Pichincha Volcano judginly looking down on the stadium, there's that little extra pressure to win.

Perched on a hill, to the east of the historic old centre of Quito, Parque Itchimbia is a popular place with locals for a good reason. The well-manicured park is a great place for a game of soccer, for flying kites or picnicking. Plus the interesting Centro Cultural Itchimbia is a cool crystal palace (actually a conference centre) But the real reason people come up here is for the view. You can get some of the best views of the old city from the park. It's probably best to come in the morning for the best light. Alternatively, come for a drink at the bar at sunset for a lovely evening. Whatever the reason, it's a wonderful little place to enjoy Quito.

With a plaza hiding around just about every single corner of the wonderful UNESCO listed Quito historic centre, you'd think it would be hard to pick just one winner. But for us, the open expanse of Plaza San Francisco takes the prize. Pretty much right smack in the middle of the old city, with a one of the larger churches in the city complete with museum-esque catacombs, numerous cafes and juice stands to chill out, traditionally dressed local women selling their wares, frequent performances and shows plus more pigeons than you could shake a stick at (stick shaking not recommended), Plaza San Francisco has it all.

In the heart of the historic centre, overlooking the popular Plaza Grande, sits the Carondelet Palace. Dating back to 1570, the the palace has undergone a few facelifts, but the history is unmistakable. As the seat of the Spanish Crown to regional Barons to modern day presidents, the building has been the centre of the building of nation. Still the seat of government, the palace has been open to all who wish to visit it since 2007. With no entry fee (bring a copy of your passport), free tour and a souvenir photo, it's an absolute bargain. The extensive collection of presidential gifts, ornate meeting rooms and other lavish decorations, the palace is a one-stop shop for a flash tour of the history of the country.