The high life
At around 3,000 metres above sea level, Ecuador’s capital is literally breathtaking. Colonial charm, modern enterprise and a temperate climate make the city an enticing year-round destination.
WHAT TO SEE
Pews and views
Grand colonial churches such as The Company of Jesus Church and the 19th-century residences of the wealthy line the streets of Quito’s historic Old Town (see ‘Don’t Miss’). In the New Town, Ecuador’s rich past is displayed at the Central Bank National Museum (www.museobibliotecabce.com.ec) and a cable car (+573 2222 2996) offers panoramic views from atop the Pichincha Volcano.
WHERE TO EAT
Cafe culture
La Mariscal buzzes with cafes, pancake breakfasts at Magic Bean (www.magicbeanquito.com) and traditional Ecuadorian lunches of roast guinea pig or chicken soup at Mama Clorinda (+593 2254 2523). Tuck into Argentine steaks at Los Troncos (+593 2243 7377) and sample Mediterranean- Ecuadorian flavours at Cafe Mosaico (www.cafemosaico.com).
WHERE TO BOOGIE
Salsa and sonatas
La Mariscal district is a favourite with foreign visitors, especially Varadero (+593 2254 2575) and the Turtle’s Head (+593 2256 5544). Locals prefer jazz bar El Pobre Diablo (www.elpobrediablo.com), themed clubs and salsatecas. The Old Town has an arty vibe, and classical music and ballet at the Sucre National Theatre (www.teatrosucre.org).
HOW TO GET THERE
KLM operates five direct weekly flights to Quito Mariscal Sucre Airport from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol.
Tourist information www.quito.com.ec
Looking for handy, up-to-date travel information? Check out KLM’s Destination Guide pages – and book your flight – on klm.com. Content provided by Frommer’s Unlimited © 2010, Whatsonwhen Limited.
DON’T MISS
Proud heritage
Quito’s bustling Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with architecture reflecting its colonial legacy. Come in the evening when the churches and civic buildings are lit. On Sundays, Plaza de la Independencia becomes the hub of Ecuadorian society.
