Half-Day Guided Sightseeing Tour of Old Town Quito

Discover the captivating history and stunning architecture of Old Town Quito on this half-day guided sightseeing tour. Explore the colonial streets, visiting iconic sites like the Santo Domingo Church and the breathtaking Church of the Society of Jesus. With expert insights from knowledgeable guides and panoramic views from church domes, this intimate tour offers a perfect blend of culture and adventure. But what secrets lie within these historic walls, waiting to be uncovered?

Key Points

• Explore the historic colonial architecture and renowned churches of Old Town Quito on a 4-hour guided sightseeing tour.
• Visit the Santo Domingo Church for a dome climb and panoramic views, and the Church of the Society of Jesus, known as the Golden Church.
• Experience a personalized small-group tour with a maximum of 12 people, rated 5.0 out of 5 stars by 28 travelers.
• Meet at the central location of Independence Square and Chile Street, and conclude the tour at Plaza Grande.
• Moderate fitness level is required, and the tour is not wheelchair accessible.

Tour Overview and Highlights

This guided sightseeing tour of Old Town Quito offers travelers a half-day exploration of the city’s historic colonial architecture and renowned churches.

The tour visits two of Quito’s most important churches: the Santo Domingo Church, where visitors can climb the dome for panoramic views, and the Church of the Society of Jesus, known as the "Golden Church" for its ornate interior.

Along the way, the small group experiences less-visited attractions and enjoys ample photo opportunities.

Rated 5.0 out of 5 stars by 28 travelers, this tour provides an excellent introduction to Quito’s UNESCO-recognized history and culture.

Tour Details

The tour is a small-group experience, with a maximum of 12 people, and includes a bilingual guide.

The 4-hour tour covers admission to two top attractions – the Santo Domingo Church, where visitors can climb the dome for panoramic views, and the Church of the Society of Jesus, known as the "Golden Church" for its ornate interior.

The tour price starts from $89.00 per person and varies based on group size.

To join, guests meet at Independence Square and the tour concludes at Plaza Grande.

However, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and requires a moderate fitness level.

Meeting and End Points

The meeting point for the tour is Independence Square and Chile St, Venezuela, García Moreno N5-16, Quito 170401, Ecuador. The tour starts promptly at 10:00 am. At the end of the 4-hour experience, guests will be dropped off at the iconic Plaza Grande.

Meeting Point	Start Time	End Point	Duration
Independence Square and Chile St, Venezuela, García Moreno N5-16, Quito 170401, Ecuador	10:00 am	Plaza Grande	Approximately 4 hours

The tour’s start and end locations are centrally located, making it easy for participants to get to and from the experience. The small-group format ensures a personalized and intimate sightseeing adventure.

Accessibility and Health Considerations

Although not wheelchair accessible, the tour is located near public transportation, making it convenient for most travelers.

Moderate physical fitness is required, as the tour includes access to church domes via stairs. The tour may not be suitable for those with back problems or serious medical conditions.

To ensure a comfortable experience:

1. Wear comfortable walking shoes.
2. Bring any necessary medications.
3. Inform the guide of any physical limitations prior to the tour.

Cancellation and Reviews

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour starts, providing flexibility for travelers.

The tour has an impressive 5.0 rating based on 28 reviews, all of which are 5-star.

Travelers rave about the knowledgeable guides who provide excellent introductions to Quito’s history and culture.

The tour’s exceptional quality is apparent in the glowing testimonials, which highlight the guides’ expertise and the tour’s ability to offer a comprehensive yet enjoyable experience.

Customers are clearly satisfied with the value and content of this guided sightseeing tour of Old Town Quito.

Exploring the Colonial Architecture and Historic Churches

Immersed in the heart of Quito’s historic center, the guided sightseeing tour takes visitors on a captivating exploration of the city’s colonial architecture and renowned historic churches.

Highlights include:

1. Admiring the ornate facade and soaring dome of the Santo Domingo Church, which offers sweeping views over the city from its lofty vantage point.

2. Marveling at the exquisite "Golden Church" of the Society of Jesus, its interior resplendent with gilded altars, intricate carvings, and breathtaking artwork.

3. Discovering lesser-known architectural gems, each with its own fascinating history, as the guide provides insightful commentary on Quito’s rich cultural heritage.

Climbing the Dome of Santo Domingo Church

As visitors ascend the spiral staircase within the Santo Domingo Church, they’re rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of Quito’s historic city center.

The climb to the top of the church’s dome is a highlight of the tour, offering a unique vantage point to admire the intricate colonial architecture and vibrant plazas below.

The church’s striking baroque style and ornate interiors provide a captivating contrast to the sweeping cityscape.

Despite the moderate physical effort required, the panoramic outlook from the dome’s observation deck is well worth the effort, leaving guests with a greater appreciation for Quito’s UNESCO-protected old town.

The Opulent Church of the Society of Jesus

After admiring the panoramic views from the top of the Santo Domingo Church, the tour continues to the opulent Church of the Society of Jesus.

Also known as the "Golden Church", this Jesuit temple dazzles with its lavish interior.

The highlights include:

1. Ornate baroque altars covered in gold leaf
2. Intricate carvings and paintings that depict religious scenes
3. A stunning main altar that’s considered one of the finest examples of Baroque art in South America

The Church of the Society of Jesus exemplifies the wealth and power of the Jesuit order during colonial times, leaving visitors in awe of its extravagant design.

Sum Up

This half-day guided tour offers a captivating glimpse into Quito’s rich colonial heritage. Visitors can explore the iconic churches, admire the stunning architecture, and climb to the top of the Santo Domingo Church dome for panoramic city views. With knowledgeable guides providing expert insights, this tour provides an immersive cultural experience for travelers seeking to uncover the history and beauty of Old Town Quito.