Where to Stay in Quito
Family-friendly areas, safe neighborhoods, and activities for all ages
Top 3 Areas to Stay in Quito
Family-friendly neighbourhoods that are safe and practical
La Floresta
A bohemian and artistic neighborhood filled with independent boutiques, cafes, and galleries.
Our top picks in La Floresta
Historic Center
A UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning colonial architecture and vibrant plazas.
Our top picks in Historic Center
Guápulo
A historic, cliffside neighborhood with stunning views and a tranquil, artistic atmosphere.
Our top picks in Guápulo
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Neighbourhood Comparison for Families
| Neighbourhood | Budget | Vibe | Best For | Safety |
|---|---|---|---|---|
#1La Mariscal | Mid-range | The vibrant heart of Quito's nightlife and a hub for international travelers. | nightlifesolo travelers | Busy and generally safe during the day, ... |
La Floresta | Mid-range | A bohemian and artistic neighborhood filled with independent boutiques, cafes, and galleries. | foodiesculture | Generally safe, but exercise standard pr... |
Historic Center | Budget | A UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning colonial architecture and vibrant plazas. | first-timersculture | Generally safe during the day with lots ... |
Guápulo | Luxury | A historic, cliffside neighborhood with stunning views and a tranquil, artistic atmosphere. | couplesculture | Very safe within the hotel areas due to ... |
Find family-friendly hotels in Quito
Hotels with family rooms and kid-friendly amenities
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Tips for Families in Quito
Plan Around Nap Times
Schedule big attractions for the morning when energy is highest. Keep afternoons flexible for downtime or playground visits.
Pack Snacks
Having familiar snacks on hand prevents meltdowns. Local supermarkets are cheaper than tourist-area shops for stocking up.
Consider Apartments
An apartment with a kitchen and washing machine can be more practical than a hotel in Quito, especially for stays over 3 nights.
Keep Distances Short
Young children tire quickly. Choose accommodation near your top 2 to 3 must-see attractions rather than in the geographical centre.
Book a family activity in Quito
Kid-friendly tours and fun experiences
Best Neighborhoods for Families
Ranked by relevance for families visiting Quito
La Mariscal
Mid-rangeThe vibrant heart of Quito's nightlife and a hub for international travelers.
- +Abundant restaurants, bars, and clubs
- +Good access to public transport
- +Plenty of accommodation options
- -Can be noisy at night
- -Some areas feel overly touristy
🛡️ Busy and generally safe during the day, but be vigilant for petty crime, especially around Plaza Foch at night; avoid poorly lit side streets.
La Floresta
Mid-rangeA bohemian and artistic neighborhood filled with independent boutiques, cafes, and galleries.
- +Unique independent shops and eateries
- +Relaxed and creative atmosphere
- +Less touristy than La Mariscal
- -Can be a bit spread out
- -Fewer major tourist attractions within immediate walking distance
🛡️ Generally safe, but exercise standard precautions as with any urban area; stick to well-lit streets at night.
Historic Center
BudgetA UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning colonial architecture and vibrant plazas.
- +Incredible historical significance
- +Abundant cultural attractions
- +Very affordable
- -Can feel crowded
- -Some areas can feel less safe after dark
🛡️ Generally safe during the day with lots of people, but be aware of pickpockets; some streets can feel deserted and unsafe at night.
Guápulo
LuxuryA historic, cliffside neighborhood with stunning views and a tranquil, artistic atmosphere.
- +Spectacular panoramic views of Quito
- +Peaceful and romantic atmosphere
- +Unique historical architecture
- -Steep terrain, not ideal for those with mobility issues
- -Limited dining and shopping options within the immediate area
- -Requires transport to reach most other attractions
🛡️ Very safe within the hotel areas due to their secluded nature; access roads should be navigated with caution, especially at night.
Daily Budget (Mid-Range)
USD 70/day
Hidden Gems in Quito
Lesser-known spots the locals love
Mercado Artesanal La Mariscal
FREEWhile known, it's often overlooked for bigger attractions. This market offers a fantastic array of handmade crafts, textiles, and souvenirs directly from artisans, providing a more authentic shopping experience than many tourist traps.
Parque Metropolitano Guanguilqui
FREEEscape the city bustle in this expansive green space offering incredible panoramic views of Quito and the surrounding volcanoes. It's a favorite spot for locals to hike, picnic, and enjoy nature.
Museo Alberto Mena Caamaño
Housed in an old colonial mansion, this museum showcases exquisite historical Ecuadorian art, including detailed wax figures depicting key moments in the country's history. It's a fascinating and often uncrowded look at the past.
Safety in Quito
ModerateSolo Female Travel
Generally safe, especially in tourist areas like the Historic Center and La Mariscal during the day. Exercise heightened awareness regarding your surroundings, avoid walking alone in deserted areas at night, and keep valuables secure.
At Night
Stick to well-lit, populated areas, especially in La Mariscal and the Historic Center. Avoid dark alleys and be cautious if you choose to explore less frequented neighborhoods after sunset.
Emergency
112
Common Scams to Watch For
- 1Pickpocketing in crowded areas (markets, buses, tourist sites).
- 2Overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited help or tours, leading to inflated prices or distraction for theft.
- 3Fake police officers demanding fines on the spot.
Our Top 5 Favourite Tours in Quito
Hand-picked guided experiences you can book in advance on GetYourGuide.
Quito Walking Tour: Highlights & Hidden Gems
Discover Quito on foot with a local guide who knows every backstreet and story. You will cover the must-see landmarks and stumble upon places most visitors never find.
View Tour Details
Quito Food Tour: Street Food & Local Favourites
Eat your way through Quito with a local foodie as your guide. From bustling markets to tucked-away restaurants, taste the dishes the city is truly known for.
View Tour Details
Best of Quito: Skip-the-Line Top Attractions
Skip the queues and get straight into Quito's top attractions with pre-booked access. An expert guide brings each site to life with stories and context you would not get on your own.
View Tour Details
Day Trip from Quito: Scenic Excursion
Escape Quito for the day and explore the stunning surroundings. Transport, guide, and itinerary are all sorted so you can relax and enjoy the scenery.
View Tour Details
Quito Cultural Experience: History & Traditions
Go beyond sightseeing and connect with Quito's living culture. From hands-on workshops to historic neighbourhood walks, this is the side of the city most travellers miss.
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2 areas to be cautious about
Read our full safety guide for Quito
Families in Quito: FAQ
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