The bustling capital of Ecuador, is where you will probably arrive to the country. This city is handily split into the old town and the new town. The new town as it suggests is more modern with all the big city facilities and the old town is wonderfully colonial with the interesting historical sites to see. The old town did have a reputation for petty crime and tourists were often targeted. However, due to a government regeneration programme and more police on the streets, most of Quito is much safer and the old town is more interesting for most visitors. See the centre of the world of a day trip, climb the tower of the Voto Basilica for the best views over Quito, or take in the vibrant nightlife. The city has something interesting for everyone.
Declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1978 for its well-preserved historical centre, beautiful colonial architecture, and many incredible churches, the Old Town is a place where you will disconnect from the crowded public transportation, omnipresent street noise, and vendors trying to sell their stuff. Independence Square, the Presidential Palace, La Compania de Jesus and one of Quito's most notable squares Plaza San Francisco can all be found in the impressive old town.
This is all about jumping from one side of the Equator to another and Ecuador, Quito specifically, is one of the few places on the planet that you can do this. You can see water run clockwise and anticlockwise depending on which side of the line you are on! There is a lot more history and culture at this attraction, including the museum within the monument itself, other museums, a planetarium, ancestral village, and many restaurants. However, the random experiments you can take part in are also awesome! This is a must-do on your visit to Equador´s capital, without a doubt!
To get one of Quito's most renowned and postcard-like views, you must climb the Basilico del Voto Nacional tower. It is the largest neo-Gothic basilica in the Americas, and although it looks nice from the outside, it is worth it to spend $2 to climb the tower. There is a separate entrance fee to get to the basilica ground floor, but you will see the inside anyway if you want to climb the tower. Bring a good head for heights as climbing the last ladder is pretty challenging, but it is nothing too scary that should stop you from enjoying the spectacular views from above.