Quito Stopover 4 days / 3 nights

Quito, officially known as San Francisco de Quito, is the capital city of Ecuador. Quito is beautifully located in a valley on the eastern slopes of the Pichincha Volcano. Positioned at an altitude of 2850 meters above sea level, Quito holds the title for the highest capital in the world. Quito's Historic Center is a charming area filled with colonial architecture, cobblestone squares, grand churches, and numerous intriguing museums. The Historic Center is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. One of the most picturesque locations in Quito's old center is the Plaza de la Independencia, which is beautifully adorned with flowers and trees. The buildings surrounding the plaza include the pink delight that is the Hotel Plaza Grande, the Metropolitan Cathedral of Quito, and the Presidential Palace. In the center of the plaza stands a memorial to independence. Plaza San Francisco is one of the most stunning places in Quito. It is a cobblestone square with the whitewashed church and monastery of San Francisco along its northwestern side. The Monastery of San Diego, located southwest of the Historic Center, is a beautiful 17th-century monastery filled with exceptional colonial religious art. It is definitely worth a visit, even if it is a bit further from the Historic Center. North of the Historic Center is the vibrant Mariscal neighborhood, home to many hotels, international restaurants, bars, and trendy cafes. Quito is a friendly and fun city. With an impressive Old Quarter and a dramatic setting, Quito is a city that leaves a lasting impression on anyone.