Private Quito City Tour With Panecillo’S Hill, and Main Churches

Quito’s historic charm and architectural wonders come alive on this captivating private city tour. Stroll through the UNESCO-listed old town, marveling at the ornate San Francisco Church and La Compañía’s intricate design. Breathe in the atmosphere of Independence Plaza before ascending Panecillo Hill for panoramic city views. Along the way, savor the rich flavors of Ecuadorian chocolate, enjoying Quito’s vibrant cultural heritage. This immersive experience promises to leave you eager to uncover more of this fascinating Andean capital.

Key Points

• Explore the historic UNESCO World Heritage site of Quito’s old town, including key landmarks like Independence Plaza and La Compañía Church.
• Visit the San Francisco Church, Ecuador’s oldest religious site, and learn about its colonial architecture and Franciscan history.
• Enjoy panoramic views from Panecillo Hill, a prominent landmark overlooking the city.
• Gain insights into Quito’s culture and traditions through a private, knowledgeable guide and a chocolate tasting experience.
• Convenient round-trip hotel transportation and all entrance fees included in the 3.5-hour tour package.

Overview of the Quito City Tour

Although the Quito City Tour lasts just 3.5 hours, it offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of the historic old district.

Travelers will discover the UNESCO World Heritage-listed center, including the iconic San Francisco Church, the Independence Plaza, and the stunning La Compañía Church.

The tour also showcases the neo-Gothic Basilica del Voto Nacional and provides panoramic views from Panecillo Hill.

With a private guide, travelers can explore the city’s rich history, culture, and traditions, including a delightful chocolate tasting.

Exploring the Historic Center of Quito

The Quito City Tour takes visitors on an immersive exploration of the city’s historic old district, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Travelers walk through Independence Plaza, admiring the neoclassical architecture and bustling energy. They visit the stunning La Compañía Church, marveling at its intricate Baroque design.

The tour also includes a stop at the Basilica del Voto Nacional, showcasing its neo-Gothic grandeur.

One of the highlights is the San Francisco Church, Ecuador’s oldest religious site, where visitors learn about the country’s colonial history.

Throughout the tour, the knowledgeable guide provides insights into Quito’s rich cultural heritage.

Visiting the San Francisco Church

One of the highlights of the Quito City Tour is a visit to the San Francisco Church, Ecuador’s oldest religious site.

Constructed in the 16th century, the church impresses with its impressive colonial architecture. Guests explore the interior, admiring the stunning gilded altarpieces and ornate religious artwork.

The guide provides insights into the church’s history and significance within Quito’s cultural landscape. Visitors learn about the influential role the Franciscan order played in shaping the city’s development.

The tour allows guests to appreciate this important landmark and gain a deeper understanding of Ecuador’s colonial past.

Walking Through Independence Plaza and La Compañía Church

After exploring the San Francisco Church, the Quito City Tour continues with a visit to Independence Plaza and the impressive La Compañía Church.

In the plaza, the guide shares the significance of this historic site, where Ecuador declared independence from Spain in 1809.

Nearby, the group admires the ornate La Compañía Church, known for its stunning Baroque architecture and gold-plated interior.

The guide explains the church’s history and importance in Quito’s cultural heritage.

Visitors have the opportunity to step inside and marvel at the intricate details that make this landmark so remarkable.

Admiring the Basilica Del Voto Nacional

Towering over the Quito skyline, the Basilica del Voto Nacional impresses visitors with its striking neo-Gothic architecture. This enormous cathedral is one of the city’s architectural gems, featuring intricate stone carvings, soaring towers, and impressive domes.

As you approach the basilica, you’ll be struck by its imposing presence and the level of detail in its design. Once inside, you’ll be amazed by the high ceilings, stained glass windows, and ornate altar.

The basilica’s unique blend of European and Ecuadorian influences makes it a must-see during any Quito city tour.

Enjoying the Views From Panecillo Hill

From the basilica, the tour continues onward to Panecillo Hill, providing visitors with sweeping vistas of Quito.

Ascending the hill, travelers are rewarded with a panoramic view of Quito’s colonial city center, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The iconic winged Virgin statue presides over the city, offering a symbolic representation of Quito’s history and culture.

Guests can snap photos and take in the spectacular sights, including the city’s mix of modern and historic architecture. With its strategic hilltop location, Panecillo offers an ideal vantage point to appreciate Quito’s architectural and natural beauty.

Inclusions and Logistics of the Tour

The tour includes round-trip hotel transport in a private vehicle, as well as entrance fees to La Compañía and San Francisco Church.

A certified English/Spanish-speaking guide accompanies travelers, and a chocolate tasting is included. However, hotel pickup/drop-off outside the city incurs an extra charge of $35.

The key inclusions and logistics are:

1. Private vehicle for round-trip hotel transport
2. Entrance fees to La Compañía and San Francisco Church
3. Certified English/Spanish-speaking guide
4. Chocolate tasting

The tour is priced from $88 per person, with a minimum of 2 people required per booking.

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start.

Traveler Reviews and Experiences

Travelers have overwhelmingly praised the Quito City Tour, with 28 reviews and a 100% recommendation rate that has earned the tour a Badge of Excellence.

Guides are lauded for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to provide personalized experiences. Highlights include learning about Quito’s rich history and culture, as well as discovering local coffee shops.

Reviewers consistently note the tour’s well-paced and organized structure. The Quito City Tour offers a comprehensive and enjoyable exploration of the city’s UNESCO-listed historic center, iconic churches, and stunning views from Panecillo Hill.

Sum Up

Quito’s historic city center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers a captivating private tour. Visitors can explore stunning churches, marvel at panoramic views from Panecillo Hill, and indulge in a chocolate tasting, all while learning about the city’s rich history and culture from a knowledgeable guide. This 3.5-hour tour provides a well-rounded introduction to the enchanting capital of Ecuador.