Quito

Your First Day in Quito: Old Town, Andes & Local Rhythm

City Essentials: First Day • 3 hours 5

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Your First Day in Quito: Old Town, Andes & Local Rhythm

Start your Quito trip with a flexible, local-led walk. Learn how the city moves, where to go, and how to explore easily.

What makes this experience special

This isn’t a checklist of sights, it’s a meaningful welcome. Your host shares rhythms, routes, and quiet details that help you feel at home in Quito from the very start.

Key highlights

Walk passageways, plazas, or cloisters—your host adapts to your interests
Ease into Quito’s pace starting at a landmark locals still use
Learn where locals go, what they eat, and how the city moves
Hear stories that reveal the layers behind colonial architecture
See how Indigenous and Spanish traditions shape everyday rituals
Choose where to pause or wander—your host adjusts in real time
Leave confident, with local tips and a sense of what feels worth returning to

What to know before you go

Here’s everything you need to know before your day unfolds.

At a glance What’s included Things to know

3 hours

Fully tailored to your preferences

English Other languages may be requested

Walking experience may use public transport for long distances

What’s included

Tailored itinerary based on your preferences

A knowledgeable host who knows the hidden gems

Flexible start times to fit your day

What’s not included

Food, drinks and shopping expenses

Transport fares or attraction entry fees

Meeting point

Independence Square, and Chile St Venezuela, García Moreno N5-16, Quito 170401, Ecuador

Cancellation

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience

What to bring

How your day could unfold

A flexible, unscripted experience designed entirely around your interests. Your host will adapt the day based on what excites you most

Here’s what your experience could look like

These are just suggestions from our hosts to inspire your day. Your host will tailor the experience to suit your interests and tastes

Meeting point

Independence Square, and Chile St Venezuela, García Moreno N5-16, Quito 170401, Ecuador

The Heartbeat of Plaza Grande

Quito’s central square, where daily life and politics quietly intersect

Your First Day in Quito: Old Town, Andes & Local Rhythm

Start in the city’s central square, where key buildings and everyday life sit side by side. Your host might offer local context or keep it simple, letting you take in the space. You could step inside a historic building or stay outside and get a feel for the city’s pace.

Cultural Threads in the Side Streets

Mural-lined alleys and glimpses into local pride and protest

Your host might lead you down quiet walkways where stories live in murals and small shops. Some guests explore Casa Manuela Sáenz, a tribute to a revolutionary woman; others browse stalls where Andean textiles reveal meaning through color. Your route flexes with your curiosity.

Time-Travel at San Francisco Square

A quieter plaza steeped in legend and layered stone

If you’d like to keep going, your host might suggest heading into this lively nearby street. You could walk a bit further, pause for a drink, or stop into a local space if something catches your eye. This part of the day flexes easily with your interest and energy.

Optional Close: Viewpoint over the City

Quiet steps to a final view of Quito’s iconic hilltop Virgin

If the timing feels right, your host might suggest a final pause at a tucked-away lookout. From here, the winged Virgin of El Panecillo glows above the rooftops, your first mental map of Quito now taking shape below.

Real Stories, Real Connections

See our hosts and guests creating memories

Exploring Mexico City’s Bustling Streets with New Friends

Tasting local flavors, one bite at a time

Balcony views and happy family vibes

Smiles Over the Mercado Sonora Skyline

Capturing Moments by the Iconic Talavera Tiles

Good Company, Great Tacos, and Cold Cervezas

Taco Time and Local Flavors Shared Around the Table

Toasting to Authentic Cantina Vibes

Sun-Soaked Stroll Through Historic Mexico City

Immersed in Mexico’s Colorful Fiesta Spirit

Relaxing on the water with friends

Laughs on the move

Capturing memories inside a stunning landmark

Exploring grand architecture together

A colorful embrace against iconic tiles

City strolls and bright conversations

See what happens when you travel unscripted!

17,500+ 5-Star Reviews and Counting

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What travelers think of our City Essentials: First Day experiences in South America

Savina Aug 2025

Richard was very knowledgeable, engaging and easy to work with!

Elena Aug 2025

Jennifer Aug 2025

Our guide (Donatella) was absolutely amazing. We had people between the ages of 60 and 16 and everyone loved our tour. We experienced the local food as well as saw really cool sites. Would recommend this tour to anyone.

Jessica Aug 2025

Darryl was absolutely amazing! So knowledgeable but not boring. We were traveling with our 3 daughters (ages 13, 11, 9), our nephew (16) and my mother (70). He never rushed us and was also a phenomenal photographer! He knew all the best places to get perfect angles for views! We even saw the changing of the guard!

Anthony Aug 2025

Donatella was incredible! She made us feel like home in Naples. She showed us so much of the city, gave us fascinating history and we had great conversation!

Monica Aug 2025

Reza was amazing! He was very knowledgeable and professional, we had a great time with him in Milan. He also had some really good recommendations for us.

SEE ALL REVIEWS

FAQs

Your questions, answered

Is this a traditional tour?

No. Our experiences are unscripted and designed around you. Instead of following a rigid itinerary, your host will plan a personalized journey that feels natural, immersive, and unique.

What if I don’t know what I want to explore?

That’s completely fine! Select an experience theme or a flexible discovery experience, and after booking, answer a few questions so your host can design the perfect experience for you.

How does personalization work?

After booking, you’ll complete a short questionnaire about your interests and travel style. We’ll match you with the best host who will tailor the experience to you. You'll have the opportunity to chat with them before the experience and agree on a plan.

Can I request specific places to visit?

Yes! After booking, you will receive a questionnaire where you can highlight must-visit spots and anything else you’d like to include, and your host will craft your experience around them.

Will I know my itinerary in advance?

Yes, you will have the opportunity to chat with your host directly and agree on a plan for the day. However, there’s always room for spontaneity and local surprises!

Will I see famous landmarks or just hidden gems?

Both! Your host will take you to iconic sights if you want to see them, but they’ll also introduce you to places and stories most travelers miss.

Can I change the meeting place?

Yes, you will be in touch with your host before your experience, and you can agree on a different meeting point with them. Your host can meet you anywhere central that’s convenient.

How much walking is involved?

This depends on the experience, but your host can adjust the pace to suit your comfort level.

Can my host meet me at my accommodation?

Hotel meet-ups are available upon request in central areas. If you're staying outside the city, your host will recommend the best meeting spot and guide you with directions.