Private Quito City Tour: Panecillo Hill, Churches & La Ronda

Summary

Quito Old Town Private Tour: Panecillo, Basilica & Hidden Streets

You’ll see Quito from above at Panecillo Hill, walk through centuries-old plazas and churches, taste local chocolate on La Ronda, and get real stories from a local guide. This private tour gives you both the big sights and those little moments you’d miss on your own.

What’s the experience like?

Clouds hung low over Quito when we set off, but the city felt alive—horns honking, vendors calling out by Plaza Grande. Our guide, Andrés, met us right at the hotel lobby. He had that easy way of mixing stories with facts, so you never felt like you were in a classroom. First stop: El Panecillo. The drive up wound through narrow streets, and suddenly the whole city opened up below us. The Virgin statue is even bigger than it looks in photos—locals say she watches over the old town. Up there, you catch a whiff of grilled corn from a tiny stand (I grabbed some—salty and warm in my hands). Even on a cloudy day, you can spot Cotopaxi volcano peeking through if you’re lucky.

Back down in the historic center, we wandered into the Basilica del Voto Nacional. The stained glass windows throw colored light everywhere—it’s quieter inside than I expected. Andrés pointed out the iguana and turtle gargoyles (Ecuadorian twist on Gothic style). We didn’t climb the towers this time, but if you’re not afraid of heights, it’s worth it for the view. Walking through Independence Plaza felt like stepping into a painting: street musicians playing Andean flutes, kids chasing pigeons near the monument to the independence heroes. The Government Palace stands right there—guards in blue uniforms outside.

La Ronda is just a few blocks away but feels like another world. Cobbled lanes lined with old houses painted yellow and blue. On Friday nights it’s packed with locals sipping canelazo (a cinnamon-spiced drink with aguardiente), but during the day it’s quieter—you can hear someone strumming guitar behind an open window. We stopped for chocolate tasting at a tiny shop; the owner let us try 70% cacao bars made nearby. The Company Church (La Compañía de Jesús) is all gold leaf inside—almost overwhelming—and San Francisco Church feels ancient, full of echoes and candle smoke. I liked Santo Domingo’s plaza too; there’s always someone selling fresh guava juice right at the corner.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Quito City Highlights

• Visit El Panecillo Hill
• Explore Basilica of the National Vow
• Tour Church of the Society of Jesus
• Visit San Francisco Church
• Walk Independence Plaza
• See Santo Domingo Plaza
• Stroll Calle La Ronda

Top questions

Is this Quito city tour suitable for kids or older travelers?

Yes! The pace is relaxed and there’s transport between main stops. Some walking on cobblestones but nothing too strenuous.

What should I wear for the tour?

Layers are best—Quito weather changes fast. Bring a light jacket or sweater and comfy shoes for walking.

Is entrance to all churches included?

Entrance to La Basilica is included. Other churches may have small fees or suggested donations if you want to enter deeper areas.

Will we have time for photos or shopping?

Definitely! There’s time at each stop for photos or picking up souvenirs—just let your guide know if you want extra time somewhere.

What’s included

Your tour covers hotel pickup and drop-off in Quito, entrance fee to La Basilica Church, private transport with a certified English or Spanish-speaking guide, plus a chocolate tasting on La Ronda. All you need is your curiosity—and maybe some cash for snacks or souvenirs along the way.