Quito sits high in the Andes—beautiful, historic, and surprisingly varied depending on where you choose to stay. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks, active volcanoes and mountains, it is a nature lover’s paradise and the window to all of the beauty of Ecuador including the Galapagos. The city’s UNESCO-listed historic center delivers the big “wow” moments: grand plazas, colonial facades, and church interiors that feel almost impossibly ornate and quintessentially South American. But Quito isn’t a one-neighborhood destination.

Choosing where to stay in Quito comes down to how you want your days to feel. If your priority is classic sightseeing—being able to walk to landmarks, wake up inside the historic atmosphere, and see the Old Town lit up at night—stay in the Historic Center. If you want creative energy, coffee shops, and a neighborhood that feels lived-in (not touristy), La Floresta is a standout. For views and a “best of both worlds” base close to dining and nightlife, González Suárez is a strong all-rounder—just expect to rely on taxis.
Below, you’ll find the best neighborhoods to stay in Quito (with our list of pros and cons) but if you have already done your research and are ready to book a hotel or apartments in any of these beautiful neighborhoods, we have highlighted the top 5 hotels sure to deliver on an unforgettable experience.

Top 5 Hotels to Stay in Quito Across All Neighborhoods
- Hotel Casa Gangotena – An absolute stunner situated in one of the most well-known squares of Quito, this is a beautiful and elegant property right in the Old Town with impeccable service and some great amenities.
- NH Collection Quito Royal – A modern and beautiful hotel in La Floresta, this one is designed for families and groups that appreciate creature comforts but with easy access to all of Quito’s treasures.
- Hotel Stubel Suites & Café – A gem in Guapulo, this property offers stunning views of the valley with modern amenities that are not always a given. The hotel offers easy access to running and biking.
- Le Parc Hotel – Situated in the beautiful La Carolina neighborhood and steps from Carolina park, this is as luxury as it gets with beautiful design and floor-to-ceiling views.
- Carlota Design Hotel – A boutique property located inside a 19th century colonial house with a focus on sustainable and local elements. We loved the rooftop terrace with panoramic views and easy walks to major attractions in Old Town.
Best Neighborhoods to Stay in Quito: Quick Recommendations
- Best Area for First Timers (classic Quito experience): Quito Old Town — walkable to major sights, colonial atmosphere, best for short stays focused on landmarks and very easy to navigate
- Best Area for Families & Groups: La Carolina — financial district vibes, big park, lots of restaurants, easy base for the rest of the city.
- Best Area for Foodies: La Floresta — hip, creative, youthful, great dining streets, and strong hotel options. This is where the Universities are located as well
- Most Scenic Area: González Suárez — sweeping city/valley views, lots of restaurants along Avenida González Suárez, close to Guápulo.
- Best for Nightlife & Solo Travelers: La Mariscal — hostels, bars, travel agencies, social atmosphere near Plaza Foch (use taxis at night).
- Most Romantic Area: Guápulo — cobblestones, viewpoints, colonial church, and quick access back to Avenida González Suárez.
- Best area for Nature Lovers & Longer Stays: Cumbayá — Warmer valley setting on the outskirts with access to hikes and bike paths leading to nearby villages

Understanding Quito’s Neighborhoods
Quito’s layout is the key to picking the right base. Most travelers choose between three anchors: the Historic Center (for colonial Quito), La Mariscal (for nightlife and budget stays), or González Suárez (for views and a more residential, upscale feel). Beyond those, La Floresta offers an artsy, café-forward stay, while La Carolina is the city’s modern, park-centered district with lots of restaurants and a family-friendly vibe.
Two neighborhoods deserve special mention even if many visitors only “dip in”: Guápulo, which feels like a small colonial town tucked into the hills, and Cumbayá, a valley area that’s quieter, warmer, and oriented toward outdoor activities.
One practical note: certain areas (especially González Suárez) don’t have the same public-transport convenience as others, so you’ll likely use taxis more often to reach Old Town sights.

Quito Historic Center/Old Town – Best for First-Timers
Neighborhood Overview
If your mental image of Quito is colonial plazas, historic churches, and cobblestone streets, the Historic Center is where you want to wake up. It’s one of the largest and best-preserved colonial centers in Latin America and is packed with the city’s headline attractions—making it a natural pick for short trips where you want to maximize sightseeing time on foot.
The best time to experience this is in the morning and early evening: step outside to plazas and landmarks, spend your day moving between churches and museums, then return for dinner with a view or head toward La Ronda for a livelier nighttime atmosphere. It’s also the area where Quito feels most “historic” after dark—beautiful, but you’ll want to use taxis at night rather than wandering far on quiet streets.
Considering that cacao has been playing an important role for years in Ecuadorian history and culture, stop at Republica del Cacao to indulge in a chocolaty dessert, or try one of Pacari’s award-winning chocolate bars. If you’re into dark chocolate, give a shot to the 65% Cacao bar from the province of Manabi!
At sunset, head to Cafe Mosaico located on Itchimbía hill and enjoy dinner with a panoramic view over Quito and El Panecillo. If you’re in the mood for gourmet cuisine, go to Casa Gangotena’s restaurant. As the night goes on, take a taxi to the pedestrian street La Ronda. It’s filled with some of the best restaurants in Quito and has bars hidden in colonial buildings to dance the night away to the rhythmic Ecuadorian music.
Pros & Cons of Staying in Quito Historic Center
Pros
- Walkable access to major Quito attractions and colonial architecture
- Most immersive “classic Quito” atmosphere
- Great for 1–3 day stays focused on landmarks
Cons
- Some streets can feel uneasy after dark; taxis are smart at night
- Noise can be an issue in rooms facing busy squares
- Less convenient for modern north Quito dining and nightlife hubs
Best Places to Stay in Quito Historic Center
- Hotel Casa Gangotena — Partially burnt down in 1914, rebuilt ten years later by the Gangotena family, and today converted into a prestigious boutique hotel, the hotel’s rich history resonates with the Historic Center’s past. With ceiling and wall mouldings, marble and gold accents, this 5-star will give you an idea of what it must have felt like to live in the family mansion. The spacious, luxurious rooms are air-conditioned with satellite TV, a hairdryer, toiletries, bathrobes and slippers. The on-site restaurant features traditional Ecuadorian dishes with a Spanish flare thanks to renowned head chef, Byron Rivera. The hotel is only a 5-minute walk to Independence square, the Carondelet Palace and the city’s major museum. Don’t miss the view from the hotel terrace!
- Carlota Sustainable Design Hotel — A beautiful, small and eco-friendly boutique hotel located in a 19th century colonial house. With exposed bricks and wooden beams, the rooms are unique, air-conditioned, and have an industrial but cozy vibe. If you’ve ever wondered what it is like to sleep in a bed with alpaca duvet and pillows, this is the place for you. Breakfast is served every morning, and guests have access to the rooftop terrace with a panoramic view, the on-site restaurant and the reading corner. A 5-minute walk will take you to Independence Square and the Church of the Society of Jesus.
- Hotel Casa Montero — Located on Santo Domingo Square, in the heart of Colonial Quito, this charming hotel that preserved its soul will take you back in time. Offering spacious, comfortable rooms with traditional decor, television and free toiletries, the hotel also serves breakfast daily at its on-site restaurant with a precious view over the Old Town and El Panecillo. The property is located steps away from Santo Domingo Church and the lively street La Ronda. Past guests have noted that though offering beautiful views, the rooms facing the square can be a little noisy. Light sleepers and tranquility seekers should request a room facing the inner courtyard at the time of booking.
- Casa El Edén — A renovated colonial house turned boutique stay with rooftop views and an easy walk to major Old Town sights. Rooms include a television, safe, hairdryer and heating. Homemade breakfast is served daily. Take in the panoramic views on the rooftop garden, ponder about which church to visit next in the reading room and relax by the chimney at night. Ideally located within a 6-minute walk to both the Basilica of the National Vow and Independence Square, you will not run out of places to visit in the area.
- La Casona de la Ronda Hotel Boutique Patrimonial — A 4-star boutique hotel located in a typical 18th century colonial building. You will feel right at home in its charming spacious rooms with television and complementary toiletries. Have breakfast at the hotel’s restaurant and plan your day in its green courtyard. At the doorstep of the Historic Center, discover Santo Domingo square and Church around the corner. A 5-minute walk will take you to Casa Sucre museum, the old residence of Marshal Antonio Jose de Sucre, who led the last battle against the Spanish Empire.
- Casa San Marcos Hotel Boutique — A baroque boutique hotel that kept the charm of the colonial building. With a pretty indoor courtyard, ornate furniture and old paintings, this hotel has it all. Offering cozy rooms equipped with a flat screen television, safe, heating, free toiletries and a bathrobe and slippers. The hotel also features an on-site rooftop restaurant. Enjoy an extensive breakfast with a view and discover local and international artists’ work in the living room’s art gallery. The hotel is only minutes away from Santo Domingo square and the bars and restaurants of La Ronda.

La Floresta – Best for Foodies & Locals
Neighborhood Overview
La Floresta is often overlooked by first-timers—and that’s exactly why it’s so appealing. It’s a residential neighborhood with a youthful, creative energy thanks to universities, students, and Quito’s arts scene. Here, Quito feels less like a checklist of attractions and more like a city people actually live in.
This is the area for coffee shops, locally owned restaurants, street art, galleries, and a more relaxed daily rhythm. It also places you near dining corridors like Avenida Isabel La Católica, with plenty of choices for dinner and evening drinks. If you want a stay that balances comfort with character—without being stuck in the most tourist-heavy zones—La Floresta is one of the best bets in Quito. La Floresta is rich in culture so admire the street art, window shop at the art galleries and watch alternative, independent movies at the movie theater Ocho y Medio. Shop your heart out at La Torera, where you’ll discover a wide range of products, including prints, clothing and beauty bits, made by various Ecuadorian artists, and satisfy your sweet tooth at Bótanica with a delicious pie.
For dinner, go to Avenida Isabel La Catolica, where you’ll find a variety of restaurants and all types of cuisine. Opt for Alitas Benditas for delicious chicken wings or Lo Nuestro for Ecuadorian food. Fancy something unusual? Head to the “Food Truck Plaza” and try one of these restaurants on wheels’ delicacies such as a vegan pizza with yuca dough! If you’re feeling more adventurous, go for one of the dishes on the ever-changing menu at Laboratorio. At night, enjoy live jazz music at El Pobre Diablo-Café or a good artisanal beer at Bandidos del Paramo.
Pros & Cons of Staying in La Floresta
Pros
- Trendy cafés, restaurants, and a strong arts/creative scene
- Feels more “local” and less tourist-saturated than nightlife hubs
- Good hotel selection, from boutique to luxury
Cons
- Not inside the Historic Center; you’ll be commuting for Old Town sightseeing
- Nightlife is more low-key than La Mariscal
- May not deliver the stunning views of mountains and valley directly from your window
Best Places to Stay in La Floresta
- Casa Aliso Hotel Boutique — With a lovely backyard and cozy rooms, this boutique hotel in an artsy, residential district of Quito will feel like a home away from home. Located in a restored doctor’s house, it offers rooms with cable television, heating, bathrobes and complimentary toiletries at a wallet-friendly cost. Wander the colorful streets of the area, shop local goodies and eat at trendy restaurants. It is also a good starting point to visit neighboring Avenida Gonzalez Suarez and Guápulo.
- Swissôtel — A 5-star luxury choice with spacious, air-conditioned modern rooms, comfortable bedding, televisions, safes, slippers and complimentary toiletries. The hotel features two on-site restaurants, specializing in Ecuadorian and Japanese cuisine, an indoor and outdoor pool, and fully equipped gym and sauna. A buffet breakfast is included in some room rates. Located a 2-minute walk from the restaurants on Isabel La Catolica.
- NH Collection Quito Royal — This lavish hotel offers modern, spacious rooms equipped with air conditioning, coffee makers, safes, flat screen TVs, a minibar, and free toiletries. Guests can take advantage of the hotel sauna and fitness center and feast on the breakfast buffet. There’s an on-site bar and restaurant, but if you fancy a change, the hotel is steps away from the many restaurants of Avenida Isabel La Catolica. Located less than a 15-minute walk to the viewpoint of Guápulo

González Suárez – Best for Jaw Dropping Views
Neighborhood Overview
If you’re coming to Quito for the scenery as much as the history, González Suárez is the views-first choice. Set along the city’s edge near Guápulo, the neighborhood gives you sweeping perspectives over Quito and the surrounding valley, with restaurants, coffee shops, and nightlife options clustered along Avenida González Suárez.
It’s a “best of both worlds” base for many travelers: you’re not in the tourist crush of Old Town, but you’re still within reach for day trips into the Historic Center—and you’ll have a strong lineup of places to eat close to your hotel. The main compromise is transportation: public transit is limited compared to other areas, so taxis are the default way to get to Old Town and beyond.
Pros & Cons of Staying in González Suárez
Pros
- Some of the best city and valley views in Quito
- Strong dining and nightlife options along Avenida González Suárez
- Great access to Guápulo viewpoints and hillside atmosphere
Cons
- Less public transportation convenience; you’ll use taxis more often
- Not as walk-to-everything as staying in the Historic Center
Best Places to Stay in González Suárez
- Hotel Quito — On the border of Gonzalez Suarez and Guápulo, this Art Deco hotel offers breathtaking views over the city and valley. Every room has a private balcony, television and free toiletries. Hotel guests have access to the outdoor pool overlooking Guápulo, and the fitness center. Surrounded by restaurants, bars and clubs, you can opt to go out or stay in and eat at the on-site restaurant serving both Ecuadorian and international food. Past guests recommend a pool facing room to avoid street noise. It’s a 20-minute walk through the winding streets to the Guápulo church and convent.

La Mariscal – Best for Nightlife and Solo Travelers
Neighborhood Overview
La Mariscal is Quito’s most obvious nightlife base, centered around Plaza Foch. It’s popular with backpackers for its hostels, bars, cafés, and travel agencies (useful if you’re booking tours or onward travel). It’s lively, social, and easy for meeting other travelers—but it’s not the neighborhood to choose if you’re chasing a quieter, more local feel.
It’s also the area where “be careful at night” matters most. The neighborhood can be fun and convenient, but you’ll want to default to taxis after dark rather than walking long distances late. If nightlife is your priority, La Mariscal makes sense. If you want a calmer trip, consider La Floresta, La Carolina, or González Suárez instead. Being a more popular destination for young (and thrifty) travelers, this is a great place for finding hostels and apartments.
Pros & Cons of Staying in La Mariscal
Pros
- Best area in Quito for nightlife and a social travel vibe
- Strong budget accommodation and hostel scene
- Convenient for travel agencies and tour planning
Cons
- Not the best choice for a “local” Quito experience
- Extra caution needed at night; taxis are recommended after dark
- Street noise can be an issue near busy roads
Best Places to Stay in La Mariscal
- Hotel Reina Isabel — A lovely haven in an ultra-lively neighborhood, this boutique hotel offers spacious rooms equipped with onsite restaurant that is highly rated. Tastefully mixing old with new, the hotel features continental breakfast every morning, along with local specialties such as empanadas. A 10-minute walk will take you to the artisanal market and El Ejido Park.
- Embassy Quito — A well-liked hotel offering comfortable and spacious rooms with modern appliances and extras such as a coffee machine, slippers and free toiletries. After breakfast, go up to the rooftop terrace to enjoy the view over Pichincha Volcano or hit-up the fitness center. Past guests have noted the noise coming from the busy street below, worth noting if you’re a light sleeper. Friendly and helpful staff are also mentioned often. A 10-minute walk will take you to Foch Square, 20 minutes to the artisanal market, and about 15 minutes to Guápulo viewpoint.
- Hotel Vieja Cuba — clean, comfortable and overall lovely choice with a great value-focused offering an nice location on the edge of this popular neighborhood’s nightlife area. The hotel is located in a colonial-style mansion, and offers small, charming and cozy rooms with televisions and safes. Lots of beautiful hardwood, brick, and terracotta tiles create a welcoming atmosphere, and they serve a nice breakfast daily, included when you book with Booking.com. Just a 10-minute walk from La Mariscal’s popular Foch Square, about a 15-minute walk to Isabel La Catolica street, and 15 minutes from the Gonzalez Suarez district.

La Carolina – Best for Families & Taste of Modern Quito
Neighborhood Overview
La Carolina is Quito’s modern face: a financial district with an energetic, lived-in feel and a big central park that draws locals on weekends for sports and family time. It’s a comfortable choice if you want a more contemporary area with lots of restaurants and coffee spots, plus a location that works well as a starting point for exploring other parts of the city.
This is also a smart base for travelers who like having predictable amenities: wide dining options, shopping nearby, and a neighborhood that’s less about colonial atmosphere and more about everyday Quito. If you’re traveling with family or simply prefer modern hotels and a park-adjacent routine, La Carolina is one of the easiest areas to book with confidence. It also offers a great selection of local and international restaurants and coffee places such as Café Jaru. Enjoy karaoke at Mongo’s on Avenida de los Shyris and dinner at De La Llama for exquisite traditional Ecuadorian food. Finish off the evening at VIVA Cerveza or Beerman with a locally brewed beer.
Pros & Cons of Staying in La Carolina
Pros
- Modern district with plenty of dining and entertainment options
- Great park access (La Carolina Park) and a family-friendly feel
- Strong selection of modern, full-service hotels
Cons
- Not the colonial Quito experience (you’ll commute to Old Town)
- Can feel more “business” than “boutique” depending on the hotel
Best Places to Stay in La Carolina
- Le Parc Hotel Beyond Stars — Located next to Carolina Park, this 5-star option offers luxurious, comfortable rooms with plenty of space to spread out and enjoy the floor-to-ceiling view. Decorated by French designer Philippe Stark, each room has flat screen TVs, safes, minibars, hairdryers, an iron, slippers and complementary toiletries. Enjoy a drink with a view from the rooftop bar, workout at the fully equipped fitness center, relax in the sauna, or dine at the on-site restaurant. Located right on Avenida Republica de El Salvador, the hotel is surrounded by trendy coffee shops, bars and restaurants – you won’t run out of options.
- Hotel Finlandia — This popular and modern property has a a bit of a business-y vibe, with clean and bright rooms that are simple, but have everything you need from a fairly no-frills hotel, from work desks, flat screen TVs, and safes, to complimentary toiletries. A buffet breakfast (included in Booking.com rates) is also available every morning at the on-site restaurant, which also serves international food all day. This property is well-located, close to a major shopping center, and there are lots of cool bars, restaurants and shops also nearby.
- Wyndham Garden — Part of the global chain, this property offers comfortable, air-conditioned rooms with coffee makers, flat screen satellite TVs, irons and laptop safes. The hotel includes a casual restaurant serving both local and international dishes, including a daily breakfast that is included in some room rates, as well as a fitness center. Around the corner from Carolina Park, a short 5-minute walk will take you to the Botanical gardens. It’s also a 5-minute walk to the El Jardin shopping center, and if you cross the lovely La Carolina park, you’ll find yourself on the lively Avenida Republica de El Salvador street in about 10 minutes.

Guápulo – Best for Charm, Viewpoints, and a “Small Town” Feel
Neighborhood Overview
Guápulo feels like a small colonial town tucked into Quito’s hills—cobblestone streets, a historic church and convent, viewpoints over the gorge, and a quieter pace that’s a world away from the city’s busier arteries. It sits behind Avenida González Suárez and connects Quito toward the valley, which makes it appealing for travelers who want a calmer atmosphere while staying within reach of restaurants and nightlife nearby.
Guápulo is best for travelers who like character over convenience. The streets wind and dip, and you’ll often use taxis to move between districts. But for mornings with views and evenings that feel less hectic than central nightlife zones, it’s a memorable pocket of the city. Take in the view at the Guápulo viewpoint, El Mirador De Guapulo, wander down its winding cobblestone streets and visit its colonial church and convent, which is one of the oldest religious sanctuaries in Ecuador. Relax at the park and finish the day enjoying a coffee or a meal at one of its restaurants on Camino de Orellana. Try Tandana or Mirador de Guápulo.
Pros & Cons of Staying in Guápulo
Pros
- Charming, hillside “small town” atmosphere inside Quito
- Great viewpoints and a scenic, historic feel
- Close to Avenida González Suárez for restaurants and nightlife
Cons
- Less direct access to major Old Town attractions
- Hilly streets can make walking more demanding
- You’ll likely rely on taxis for getting around
Best Places to Stay in Guápulo
- Hotel Stubel Suites & Café — A modern 4-star hotel offering spacious and comfortable rooms that include a television, hairdryer, safe and free toiletries. The hotel also features a gym, terrace and on-site restaurant with spectacular views over the valley -the real stand-out of this property, and a feature past guests rave about! Next to the Guápulo viewpoint, the hotel is ideally located to explore the valley and 15-minutes away from the restaurants of Isabel La Catolica.

Cumbayá – Best for Outdoorsy Travelers and Longer, Slower Stays
Neighborhood Overview
Cumbayá sits in the Quito valley and feels noticeably different from central neighborhoods: it’s quieter, warmer, and more spacious. It’s positioned as a longer-stay option for outdoor activities—hiking, running, and biking routes like the pedestrian/cyclist chaquiñán that links nearby towns. It’s also described as wealthier and more tranquil than central Quito, with a pace that suits travelers who want time outside the city’s core.
The main reality check is logistics. While it’s still part of Quito, it’s not a walk-to-sightseeing base, and you’ll be commuting back toward the center when you want Old Town landmarks or nightlife districts. Cumbayá makes the most sense if your trip is longer and your “Quito” plan includes plenty of valley time. Hike el Ilaló, an inactive volcano, bike on the chaquiñan, which is a road only accessible to pedestrians and cyclists that goes through Cumbayá and the towns of Tumbaco and Puembo or run along el Reservorio.
Enjoy a well deserved artisanal beer at Sabaii, an evening at Elements for a fancy mouth watering dinner experience, or head to Superfoods to stay on the healthy track.
Pros & Cons of Staying in Cumbayá
Pros
- Quieter, more tranquil setting in the valley
- Warmer temperatures and good outdoor activity access
- Best fit for longer stays and travelers who prioritize nature time
Cons
- Not convenient for quick-hit Old Town sightseeing
- More taxi/car time to reach central Quito neighborhoods
Practical Tips for Staying in Quito
- Use taxis strategically. In some neighborhoods (especially after dark), taxis are the safer, simpler default—agree on price or insist on the meter, and consider apps like Uber/Cabify/Easy Taxi for predictability.
- Be cautious with buses. They’re cheap, but routes can be confusing, and petty theft can happen—keep valuables secure and stay alert, especially at rush hour.
- After dark, don’t “tough it out” on foot. It’s recommended to avoid walking or taking public transport at night—call a taxi instead.
- Skip biking for most visitors. Even with some bike lanes, drivers may not respect cyclists, making it a poor choice for getting around
- Protect your essentials. Pickpocketing can happen—keep valuables on your person (inner pocket), avoid flashing phone/cash on transit, and be mindful in crowds.

FAQs About Where to Stay in Quito
What’s the best area to stay in Quito for first-timers?
The Historic Center is the most classic first-timer base if your priority is landmarks and colonial Quito, especially on a shorter trip. It is the best connected to all the other neighborhoods mentioned above and has a great variety of hotel and dining options to suit any budget.
Where should I stay in Quito for views?
González Suárez is positioned for sweeping city and valley views and sits next to Guápulo, with lots of restaurants along Avenida González Suárez. Definitely a key area for nature lovers and those that just want to see the grandeur of the Andes right outside their window.
What’s the best neighborhood in Quito for nightlife?
La Mariscal, especially around Plaza Foch, is the main nightlife hub and a backpacker favorite—just be careful at night and use taxis.
Is La Floresta a good area to stay in Quito?
Yes—La Floresta is a strong choice if you want trendy cafés, locally owned restaurants, street art, and a neighborhood that feels youthful and creative. This is where locals live and you really get to experience what it would like to call this beautiful city home.
Is it easy to get around Quito without a car?
You can, but it depends on your comfort level. Public transport is inexpensive, yet routes can be confusing and petty theft can occur; many travelers rely on taxis or ride-hailing, especially after dark.
How do I get from Quito Airport to the city?
You can take the airport coach (Aeroservicios) to the old airport terminal area, or use taxis/ride-hailing for a more direct trip; taxi fares to the center are typically around $20–$30
Final Thoughts
Choose a neighborhood depending on how long you’ll spend in the city, the kind of activities you’d like to do and the kind of atmosphere you want to be in. The residential area of Gonzalez Suarez has it all: the views, the proximity to the Old Town, the foodie options and the party. However, there’s no public transportation and you will have to take a taxi to go to the city center.
If you’re planning to travel to Quito solo, consider La Floresta or La Mariscal, where you’ll be more likely to meet other travelers at local establishments. Old Town Quito is always a good choice, especially if you’ll only be spending up to three days in Quito as you’ll always be a couple of steps away from the main Quito attractions. On the other hand, be aware that although the colonial streets look even prettier at night, they also get a bit creepy and dangerous once the sun goes down.
La Carolina is the trendiest Quito neighborhood, with Avenida Republica de El Salvador being Quito’s hotspot and offering a wide variety of international food options and cool cafes. If you have a little more time and will spend more than four days in Quito, the best Quito neighborhoods for you would be Guápulo or even Cumbayá, which will offer you a different perspective on the Ecuadorian capital.
Related Guides / Internal Links
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Hello
I am looking into retiring in Quito and looking for input on the best/safest/interesting (restaurants, shopping, recreation) neighborhoods to look to rent or buy in the city. TIA
Hi MA, if you want to live in the city, you should look at places in La Carolina area, Gonzalez Suarez, or La Floresta. If you don’t mind a short commute to go to Quito, you should also consider Cumbaya and Tumbaco. There are lots of restaurants on Republica del Salvador in La Carolina, Isabel La Catolica in La Floresta, and around Central Plaza in Cumbaya.
Amazing post with great recommendations, thank you so much for this information. I have been to Quito twice and visited El Panecillo, Ciudad Mitad del Mundo, The Crystal Palace, and I can’t remember if I went anywhere else but now I see there is so much more to get to know!