Top Highlights to Visit in Downtown Quito

Staying at Casa Mejia Hotel in the heart of Quito’s Historic Center means stepping right into a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Surrounded by colonial plazas, churches, markets, and cultural landmarks, downtown Quito is the perfect place for national and international explorers. Here are the top 10 highlights you shouldn’t miss.

las espumillas de la michelena

A traditional cafeteria that you can’t miss in Quito. Its main dish, Espumilla, made from guava pulp and egg whites, is a creamy, fruit-based mousse beloved in Ecuadorian desserts. Staying at Casa Mejia Hotel, you can easily explore authentic flavors while immersing yourself in Quito’s vibrant local culture and gastronomy.

Plaza Grande (Independence Square)

The beating heart of Quito, Plaza Grande, also known as Independence Square, brings together history, politics, and daily life. Surrounded by the Presidential Palace, Metropolitan Cathedral, and Archbishop’s Palace, it’s a lively hub filled with street musicians, locals, and visitors. Just steps from Casa Mejía Hotel, it’s the best starting point for your Quito journey.

Known as the “Golden Church of Quito,” La Compañía de Jesús is a masterpiece of baroque art and architecture. Its ornate interior, covered in gold leaf, captivates every visitor. Considered one of South America’s most beautiful churches, it’s an essential stop for culture and history lovers staying nearby.

La Compañía de Jesús Church

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San Francisco Church & Plaza

The San Francisco Church and Plaza is Quito’s oldest colonial complex, offering visitors a mix of spiritual tradition and local culture. The church’s baroque altar and religious artwork are breathtaking, while the plaza buzzes with artisans and vendors. From Casa Mejia Hotel, you can walk here in minutes.

Museo de la Ciudad

Mercado Central

Located in a beautifully restored colonial building, the Museo de la Ciudad showcases Quito’s history through engaging exhibitions and cultural displays. Families and curious travelers will love its interactive approach. As one of the city’s most important museums, it’s an ideal stop for explorers based at Casa Mejia Hotel.

For a true taste of Ecuador, Mercado Central offers local specialties like hornado, llapingachos, and tropical juices. This bustling market connects travelers with Quito’s culinary traditions and flavors. Located near Casa Mejia Hotel, it’s the perfect spot to explore local life beyond the city’s historic monuments.