City Guide – Quito

Places to eat:

Somos:

Located in the heart of Quito, Somos offers a modern take on traditional Ecuadorian cuisine, blending local flavors with innovative techniques. With a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients, the restaurant creates a unique dining experience that highlights Ecuador’s rich culinary heritage.

Address: N34-421 Av. Eloy Alfaro & Av. Portugal

Carmine:

Carmine is an upscale restaurant offering a fusion of Italian and Ecuadorian flavors. Known for its cozy yet sophisticated ambiance, Carmine serves expertly crafted dishes using fresh, local ingredients. From handmade pasta to creative seafood and meat options, each dish is a testament to culinary artistry.

Address: Catalina Aldaz N34-208 & Portugal

Nubori:

Nubori offers a refined dining experience that blends Japanese culinary traditions with local Ecuadorian ingredients. Located in the heart of Quito, this modern restaurant specializes in sushi, sashimi, and other Japanese-inspired dishes, all crafted with the freshest seasonal produce.

Address: Catalina Aldaz (Bristol Park) & Portugal

Places to go:

Jardin Botanico:

It is a beautiful 12-hectare botanical garden located in the heart of the city, within the Parque La Carolina. It features a wide variety of native and exotic plant species, including Andean cloud forest flora, and orchids. The garden also offers peaceful walking paths, a butterfly house, and scenic spots to relax and enjoy nature.

Address: Pasaje #34, Rumipamba E6-264, Parque La Carolina, Quito

Ocho y Medio Cine:

A must-visit for film lovers, Ocho y Medio is an independent cinema and cultural hub nestled in Quito’s artsy La Floresta neighborhood. Since 2001, it’s been a go-to spot for cinephiles, showcasing Ecuadorian films and a curated selection of international indie cinema you won’t find in mainstream
theaters. Beyond movies, it’s a cool place to hang out—there’s a cozy café, occasional live events, and an artsy vibe that reflects the local creative scene.

Address: Valladolid N24-353 y Vizcaya, La Floresta, Quito

Nudo Street Art Project

Nudo Street Art Project is a vibrant urban art gallery and workshop space in Quito’s La Floresta neighborhood. Founded by local street artists, it offers a rotating collection of prints, clothing, and murals inspired by the surrounding area. Visitors can also participate in screen printing and graffiti workshops, making it a hands-on experience for art enthusiasts.

Address: Vizcaya & Lugo N24-323, 2nd Floor, La Floresta, Quito

Vermuteria Clandestina

Vermutería Clandestina is Ecuador’s first vermouth bar, offering a unique experience in Quito’s La Floresta neighborhood. They craft vermouth using botanicals sourced from across the country, providing a taste of Ecuador in every sip.

Address: Pontevedra & Francisco Salazar, La Floresta, Quito

Stratto Caffe

Stratto Bodega de Café is a specialty coffee roastery and coffee shop located in the vibrant La Floresta neighborhood of Quito.

Address: Vizcaya, y E13-18, La Floresta, Quito

Quito, the capital of Ecuador, is a city rich in history and culture, nestled high in the Andes at an elevation of 2,850 meters (9,350 feet). It is one of the highest capital cities in the world and boasts a well-preserved colonial center, earning it the distinction of being the first UNESCO World Heritage site. The city is surrounded by breathtaking mountain landscapes, including the active Pichincha volcano. Quito is known for its vibrant plazas, historic churches, and a unique blend of indigenous and Spanish influences. Its Mitad del Mundo monument marks the equator, making it a fascinating destination for travelers interested in geography and history.

Optional Full Day Tours:

These are not Brand g hosted tours and will be coordinated and operated through our partner No Limits Reisen.

Cotopaxi – Hacienda El Porvenir: 1 guest – $390; 2-3 guests $225 pp; 4-12 guests $145 pp

Download PDF: Cotopaxi Full Day Trip Brouchure

Cayambe and Otavalo: 1 guest – $360; 2-3 guests $210 pp; 4-12 guests $135 pp

Mindo Cloud Forest: 1 guest – $365; 2-3 guests $215 pp; 4-12 guests $145 pp

Departure Time: 8:00 AM (Available August 24 – 28)Total Tour Duration: Approximately 7 to 8 hoursIntensity Level: Easy, suitable for all fi tness levelsMindo off ers a lush escape into Ecuador’s cloud forest. Enjoy activities like birdwatching, hiking through stunning waterfalls, and exploring the diverse wildlife of the area. You can also visit local chocolate farms for a delicious treat and immerse yourself in the region’s natural beauty. Be sure to grab some chocolates for the ride back to Quito!

Included

Quito has a growing LGBTQ+ scene, with its hub in the Mariscal neighborhood, often referred to as the “pink zone.” This area is known for its lively nightlife, including gay-friendly bars, clubs, and restaurants.

Nightlife: 

Vertigo rooftop

Vértigo Rooftop offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains. This trendy bar and lounge serves expertly crafted cocktails, tapas, and a variety of drinks, making it the perfect spot for a sunset drink or a night out.

Address: Av. República de El Salvador N34-349 & Irlanda

Danzatoria Kika Dance Club

Kika Danzatoria is a lively and eclectic bar and dance club in the heart of Quito, known for its vibrant atmosphere and passion for Latin rhythms. Whether you are looking to dance the night away to salsa, bachata, or reggaeton, Kika offers an energetic and welcoming environment for both locals and visitors.

Address: Av. Francisco de Orellana & Yánez Pinzón

Tercer Milenio Discoteca

El Hueco Tercer Milenio is a popular nightclub in Quito, known for its energetic atmosphere and vibrant nightlife scene. The club features a spacious dance floor, themed nights, and a high-energy crowd, making it the perfect spot to dance and enjoy Quito’s nightlife until the early hours.

Address: Av. Baquedano E7-55 & Reina Victoria