Nestling high in the Andes, perched between mountain peaks, lies Quito - the "Florence of the Americas". Founded in 1534 on the site of an ancient Incan city, its first modern inhabitants were Dominican friars and Franciscan priests, who built much of the stunning skyline that you see today - monasteries, monuments, convents and churches. The first city to be declared a UNESCO heritage site, Quito's historic old town is considered to be the best-preserved in Latin America, a sea of red-tiled roofs and bright baroque church domes. Our collection of the best places to stay in Quito has something for everyone, from charming boutiques to traditional luxury.

A great place to see the local Sierra culture in full swing, this picturesque colonial city brims with markets, shamanistic healers and family-run hatmakers. All in all, it makes for a fascinating visit steeped in Old World grandeur, the perfect destination for history-lovers and culture-vultures keen on getting a feel for the beating heart of Latin America. If you have time, don't miss a day trip out to the Pichincha volcano - still very much active and belching smoke. Or take the Teleferico Quito - cable car - to the top of Cruz Loma for a great view, and good hiking opportunities.

Below, browse through our collection of the best places to stay in Quito, to start planning your trip.

The best places to stay in Quito

For a luxury stay

• Hotel Plaza Grande is a five star hotel lodged deep in the heart of the narrow streets of the historic old town. Go to enjoy the traditional architecture, fantastic cuisine and live opera music.

• Casa Gangotena Ecuador is a grand and impressive property with particularly spacious rooms and a restaurant where you can sample the best of Ecuadorian cuisine. It has excellent reviews, so book early.

Budget options

• Casa Gardenia is a boutique hotel that offers contemporary style in a historic setting. A great spot to explore from.

• Casa Alisa is a much loved hotel of just 10 rooms dating back to 1936, with a lovely garden for guests to relax in. Rooms have gorgeous parquet flooring and the best come with a sit-out-terrace. Highly recommended.

• Casa al Eden is a small but very comfortable bed and breakfast with only six rooms and a hearty homemade breakfast. It also won’t break the bank!

For Boutique Chic

• Large sash windows and exposed brick line the trendy Hotel Carlota. Its large roof terrace is perfect for a drink at the end of the day. Great for couples.

• La Casona de la Ronda is close to the centre an steeped in tradition. Here you'll enjoy atmospheric reception rooms surrounding an impressive central courtyard. Stunning!

For boutique heritage

• Casa San Marcos is a boutique hotel located in a beautiful heritage property in the historic centre. Expect exposed wooden beams, antique furniture and local artwork.

• Cultura Manor is a beautifully renovated mansion in the north of the Old Town, with elegantl19th-century furnishings, balconies and terraces. The restaurant sources ingredients from the hotel garden.

Out of town

• Hacienda Rumi Loma is a luxury hacienda just outside the city. It's very romantic, with just 5 rooms, all decorated with a blend of art and antiquities from around the world, alongside traditional tiled floors and exposed beams. People come from far and wide to dine in their gourmet restaurant.

• Rincón de Puembo is a larger hotel located just 15 minutes away from Quito airport. It has colonial-style architecture and traditional interior design; an excellent choice for families, with flexible accomodation and a great restaurant.

For an apartment or villa

• Our partner Booking.com has a wide range of villas and apartments in the nearby area.

Travel information

• Fly to Mariscal Sucre International Airport.
• If you want to rent a car, contact our partner Rentalcars.
• Go between June and September, the dry season, when the temperature ranges between 9 and 20 degrees.

Still undecided?

• Browse our list of all the best places to in Ecuador

• widen the net to include all our properties in Cuenca

• or contact a friendly guru for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in Quito