Quito

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Stop over in Quito, Ecuador

A travel journal to Quito by Shannon Schiner

Fuente de Piedra IMore Photos

If you are planning to spend a few days in Quito here are some suggestions for you. Quito is a great city to visit either before or after a trip to the Galapagos Islands...

  • 8 reviews
  • 7 photos

Stop over in Quito, EcuadorBest of IgoUgo

Overview

View of Old Quito
There are fantastic museums, good restaurants, and many easy day trips outside of the city! Of course there are also some very nice markets where it is possible to find a variety of indigenous arts and crafts.

Quick Tips:

Although I have never had any trouble in Quito, it is necessary to be a bit cautious. It is not a good idea to walk alone after dark...and it is not even a good idea to walk in groups after dark in any areas that are not well lit and filled with people. The majority of Ecuadorians are extremely kind and helpful. However, there are certain parts of the city where pick pockets have clever ways of lifting your wallet. Just like any big city it is best to be aware of your surroundings...better safe than sorry.

Best Way To Get Around:

Quito is easy to navigate and has a fairly decent public transportation system. The Eco-Via, taxis, trollee, and buses are all available. Just be careful after dark!

Cafe CulturaBest of IgoUgo

Hotel

Cafe Cultura
This is definitely one of the best small hotels in Quito. The hotel is a converted house that belonged to one of Quito’s oldest families. It is well done, with gorgeous murals and a comfortable atmosphere. Staying at Café Cultura is amazing. Everything from the public areas to the rooms to the food is definitely a cut above what you would expect for the price. I can’t say enough about the unique atmosphere and the charming staff. It is definitely highly recommended.

For more information: www.cafecultura.com

  • Member Rating 4 out of 5 by Shannon Schiner on November 12, 2002

Cafe Cultura
Robles y Reina Victoria Quito, Ecuador
(593) 22 224271

Fuente de Piedra IBest of IgoUgo

Hotel

Fuente de Piedra I
Contact: info@ecuahotel.com or www.ecuahotel.com

This small hotel has a cozy restaurant and comfortable rooms. It is defintely in a quiet part of Quito and is close to the main tourist area. The hotel is safe, clean, and welcoming. Each room has a cable TV, telephone, and private bathroom with 24-hour hot water. Internet service is available in the lobby for a reasonable fee. Rates are available with or without breakfast.

  • Member Rating 4 out of 5 by Shannon Schiner on November 12, 2002

Fuente de Piedra I
Wilson y Tamayo Quito, Ecuador
(593) 22900 323

Fuente de Piedra IBest of IgoUgo

Hotel | "Fuente de Piedra II"

Outside of Fuente de Piedra II
Contact: info@ecuahotel.com or www.ecuahotel.com

This small hotel has a good restaurant and comfortable rooms. It is definitely in the heart of Quito's main tourist area, surrounded by restaurants, clubs, and shops. The hotel is safe, clean, and welcoming. Each room has a cable TV, telephone, and private bathroom with 24-hour hot water. This hotel is best for people who don't mind a little bit of noise...it is located on a busy street and it is common to hear noise from traffic and pedestrians. One advantage is that the front desk is almost always staffed by someone who speaks English! Rates are available with or without breakfast.

  • Member Rating 3 out of 5 by Shannon Schiner on November 12, 2002

Fuente de Piedra I
Wilson y Tamayo Quito, Ecuador
(593) 22900 323

The Magic BeanBest of IgoUgo

Restaurant | "Magic Bean"

If you're looking for a restaurant with a varied menu, this is the place. The cuisine varies from everything for a carnivore to delicacies for a vegan. Delicious food at reasonable prices...with a good wine list and great coffee! Don't forget to try their desserts. I have taken all of my friends there and I have never had a bad meal or bad service.

magic@ecuadorexplorer.com and www.ecuadorexplorer.com/magic/

  • Member Rating 4 out of 5 by Shannon Schiner on November 12, 2002

The Magic Bean
Foch 681 y Juan León Mera esquina Quito, Ecuador
+593 2 566 181

SutraBest of IgoUgo

Restaurant

Sutra
This is the best coffee house in Quito! They also have some great food. Sutra offers a comfortable and trendy atmosphere right in the heart of the main tourist district. In addition, they have Internet access. Definitely a great place to meet people and a good way to pass an evening. It is close to many of the tourist hotels and at an intersection where it is easy to catch a cab!
  • Member Rating 4 out of 5 by Shannon Schiner on November 12, 2002

Sutra
Calama y Juan Leon Mera Quito, Ecuador
(593) 255-7642

AladdinBest of IgoUgo

Restaurant

This is the perfect place to find affordable food and drink. Five of us spent an evening chatting, eating, and drinking Pilsner. The bill came to $18! I thought there had been a mistake. It is truly affordable, delicious, and colorful. The food is typical of India (mostly meats, but they also have some vegetarian options.) Reservations are not necessary, but if you want to sit inside on the couches you might want to consider getting there early.
  • Member Rating 4 out of 5 by Shannon Schiner on November 12, 2002

Aladdin
Almagro and Baquerizo Moreno Quito, Ecuador
(593) 222-9435

La Mitad del MundoBest of IgoUgo

Attraction | "Mitad del Mundo"

An interesting museum located right on the Equator. In addition to the main building, which contains displays on a variety of Ecuadorian cultural aspects, its landscape, and indigenous animals--there are several outbuildings. Restaurants, artists, and souvenir shops can all be found here.
  • Member Rating 3 out of 5 by Shannon Schiner on November 12, 2002

La Mitad del Mundo
Autopista Manuel Córdoba Galarza Quito, Ecuador

About the Writer

Shannon Schiner
Shannon Schiner
Miami, Florida

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