Quito Guide

Quito Architecture Tours

Explore Quito's diverse architecture, from colonial to modern, discovering the architectural evolution that showcases Ecuador's cultural heritage

16+ tours
From $40
Half day
Quito Architecture Tours

Quito showcases fascinating architectural evolution, where colonial Spanish buildings, ornate baroque churches, and contemporary architecture create architectural diversity that makes architecture tours perfect for appreciating Quito's built heritage! Architecture tours take you through Quito's architectural landscape, from exploring colonial architecture in the Old Town to understanding architectural preservation, from seeing ornate baroque churches to appreciating how different architectural periods coexist, and from learning about architectural history to discovering why Quito's architecture tells the story of Ecuadorian heritage. Experience the architectural richness that defines Quito, see how colonial and contemporary styles coexist, understand preservation efforts, and discover why architecture tours offer unique insights into both Quito's history and its architectural significance. Whether you're interested in colonial architecture, religious buildings, or comprehensive architectural exploration, architecture tours provide engaging journeys that showcase the architectural evolution that makes Quito architecturally fascinating. From colonial to baroque, from preservation to contemporary, architecture tours ensure you experience the diverse architectural heritage that defines Quito!

Featured Architecture Tours Tours

Discover our top picks for architecture tours in Quito

Private Day Tour of Quito and Middle of the World
From $89
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour🔥Likely to Sell Out

Visit the first Unesco site in the World, with spring like weather is home of the largest, best preserved Colonial Architecture in the Americas, where people will welcome you with an smile. We will explore the Historic Center and its Amazing Churches such as San Francisco, La Compania, the Independence Square, Basilica, Panecillo Hill and its Virgin. During this day you can ride a cable car up to 4,000 meters elevation, (Teleferico)  for amazing views of the Volcanoes, you can also visit the Middle of the World site the Monument or/ and the Intinan Museum. During this Custom Made Full Day Tour, you can add other sites from Farmer's or Artisanal Market to Interesting Museums and more, you decide the sites to be visited, the time to spend on each site and the time you would like to get back at your Hotel.

5.0(174)
6h
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Quito Street Food Essentials
From $105
Free Cancellation

After years of research we’ve carefully selected the best street food stands in Quito in the most unexpected and hole in the wall locations. This tour prizes taste over aesthetic or price and is sure to make you craving the recipes that have been passed down from generation to generation. You’ll try exotic fruits and juices, seafood delicacies and the best local bites, made with fresh ingredients. We will finish the journey with a top chocolate, coffee and cocktail tasting. In addition to getting a real taste of Quito, you will explore the city’s back streets, downtown’s flea market and cool off beaten path architecture, street art and more. We will wander through the parts of Quito that are home to the locals that dwell here and we will eat the food that natives have been enjoying for decades.

4.9(199)
3h 30m
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Private and Personalized City Tour of Quito Teleferico and Middle of the World
From $155
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

Quito is a beautiful city and a great destination in South America. Being part of these great experiences living the culture, friendly people, local food, and the best weather in the andes mountains.

4.9(550)
8h
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Night Tour in Quito with free time at Old Town
From $15
Free Cancellation

Experience the magic of Quito at night like never before. Discover Quito's Historic Center from a new perspective, while enjoying an unforgettable panoramic view of the city. Make a special 1h30 stop in the heart of Quito and join our expert guides on a walking tour through the iconic Plaza Grande and the mystical Street of the Seven Crosses, where every corner holds a story. Then, take your time to explore on your own: cozy cafes filled with history, artisanal chocolate shops, and a delicious variety of local cuisine await you.

4.7(49)
3h
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Quito City Tour Private
From $78
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

Quito city tour with us is the best experience! Our goal is to show travelers all over the world the true Quito with its unique nature, culture, hospitality of the city's inhabitants, offering individual high-level services, taking into account and taking care of every detail of the tour to fully satisfy our most demanding customers.

4.9(18)
3h
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Private Quito City Tour By Night
From $79
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

Did you have the opportunity to leave apart a day off to explore Quito's Old Town during the planning of your journey in Ecuador? If not, this is the best opportunity to make it happen, learning and having great memories of the rich architecture and history of the first wonderful World Cultural Heritage Site! Stay away from crowds, and enjoy the comfort of this flexible and customizable private tour.

4.8(9)
2h
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Quito Private Personalized Tour with a Local: Highlights & Gems
From $49.23
Free Cancellation👤Private TourNew

From ceremonial plazas to lived-in lanes, Quito reveals its beauty in both grand views and quiet details. On this private walking tour, your host adapts the day to your pace—whether you’re drawn to iconic architecture, local workshops, rooftop lookouts, or shaded courtyards. After booking, you’ll receive a short questionnaire so we can pair you with a host who shapes your route around your interests. A private, fully personalized walking tour of Quito Pre-tour questionnaire to tailor the day to your interests Start in Independence Square, the city’s historic heart Option to explore courtyards, rooftops, and local markets Flexible pacing and route adjustments guided by your host

2h
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Quito City Tour & Teleferico Cable Car Private
From $98.66
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

Quito city tour with us is the best experience! Our goal is to show travelers all over the world the true Quito with its unique nature, culture, hospitality of the city's inhabitants, offering individual high-level services, taking into account and taking care of every detail of the tour to fully satisfy our most demanding customers. The cable car has become one of the main attractions of Quito since it opened its doors in 2005. The cable car is an excellent option to have a panoramic view of the Pichincha Volcano and the landscape of Quito. It starts at 2,950 meters above sea level and reaches 4,050 meters above sea level: the crest of Cruz Loma, next to the Pichincha volcano. It has 18 cars, which will go up the mountain range for 10 minutes. At 4050 meters, you will be greeted by a large scenic landscape. The páramo of the Pichincha volcano, at the top of Cruz Loma, offers a spectacular view of the entire city of Quito.

5.0(5)
6h
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Full Day Quito City Tour: Middle of the World & Teleférico
From $100
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

Discover Quito’s best in one unforgettable day on this private full-day tour. Ride the Teleférico to 13,000 feet (4,000 m) for breathtaking views of the Andes, stroll through the UNESCO-listed Old Town with its colonial plazas, churches, and vibrant markets, and stand on both hemispheres at the Middle of the World Monument for an iconic photo. Unlike large group tours, this experience offers personalized attention, a flexible itinerary, and insider tips from your expert local guide. Whether it’s savoring a local snack, taking extra time at a viewpoint, or exploring hidden corners, the pace is yours to set. Enjoy private transportation, hotel pickup/drop-off, and a seamless itinerary that combines Quito’s top highlights with authentic cultural moments perfect for travelers who want comfort, flexibility, and a deeper connection to Ecuador’s capital.

5.0(7)
7h
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Personalized Quito City Tour with Teleférico and Mitad del Mundo
From $125
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

Learn about the history, architecture and customs of the people of Quito in this trip. You will have the best view of the city once up on the top of Teleférico at over 13,400 feet (4090 m) above sea level. Experience new things at the Intiñan Museum in Mitad del Mundo excursion.

4.7(249)
9h
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Middle of the World, Historic Center of Quito, Panecillo and viewpoints
From $100
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

The Tour has certain guidelines, however I can adapt the tour to your needs in terms of duration and schedules. We can modify the beginning and end of it according to your tastes, preferences and needs. I will advise you on everything you need and I will give my all to make your experience pleasant and unique. The tour is through the old city of Quito, we will talk about history, geography, culture, architecture, we will do several tastings in different stations and places in the old city. Tasting of local drinks, Ecuadorian chocolate and local sweets. We will visit important places such as: Basilica of the National Vow, Street of the 7 Crosses, Venezuela Street, Plaza de la Independencia, Archbishop's Palace, Carondelet Palace, Quito Cathedral, Churches, Arco de la Reina and Calle la Ronda. The real half of the world in the intinan museum We love tourism and we like to meet new people. Enjoy the city and Ecuador with us.

5.0(2)
5h
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Quito street art tour
From $80
Free Cancellation

Dive into the spontaneous and colorful soul of Quito’s urban art scene. Explore the streets off the beaten path while spotting some of the coolest walls in town by talented local and foreign artists. Meet some of the artists and their studios, and admire a local gallery while trying local cocktails and the best chocolate. This tour is for the art lover.

5.0(10)
2h 30m
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Quito Walking Tour Explore the Historic Center of Ecuador
From $70
Free CancellationNew

Stroll through the UNESCO-listed historic center of Quito, Ecuador's capital, on a guided walking tour that immerses you in the city's rich culture and colonial beauty. This tour is designed for those who appreciate history, architecture, and local life, offering a relaxed pace to fully absorb the charm of the cobblestone streets. Led by an expert local guide, explore iconic sites such as Plaza Grande, La Compañía de Jesús, and the San Francisco Church. Discover hidden courtyards, artisan shops, and viewpoints that showcase the vibrant essence of Quito. - Guided walking tour through Quito's UNESCO-listed historic center - Visit key landmarks including Plaza Grande and La Compañía de Jesús - Engage with local culture through anecdotes and artisan shops - Perfect for history buffs, photographers, and cultural enthusiasts

5.0(4)
3h
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Quito Walking Experience Tour with Activities
From $85
Free Cancellation

Discover Quito in a very unique way, you will walk through the main areas of old town and you will visit secret places such as the domes. Our tour is guided by local tour guides that will show you the city as a local and you will lear about our culture and our food. At the end of the tour you will know Quito in a differente way and you will have the best memories on amazing places.

5.0(10)
3h 30m
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Quito Must-see Attractions Walking Tour with a Guide
From $32.02
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

Discover the heart of Quito on this walking tour, designed to immerse you in the rich history and vibrant culture of Ecuador's capital. Your bilingual guide will take you through the city's most significant landmarks. Begin your journey at Independence Square, the political and historical heart of Quito. Visit the stunning Basilica del Voto Nacional, a marvel of Gothic architecture, and climb its towers for panoramic views of the city. Explore the San Agustin Church and its fascinating catacombs, and witness the changing of the presidential guard on Mondays. Along the way, savor the taste of local Ecuadorian chocolate and capture memorable photos of your adventure.

2h 30m
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Why Choose Architecture Tours in Quito?

Architectural Diversity

Experience fascinating architectural evolution!

Colonial Architecture

See beautifully preserved colonial buildings.

Baroque Churches

Admire ornate baroque religious architecture.

Preservation Excellence

Learn about exceptional architectural preservation.

Types of Architecture Tours in Quito

Colonial Architecture Tours

Tours focusing on colonial architecture in Old Town.

ColonialOld TownHistoricPreservedBeautiful

Religious Architecture Tours

Tours emphasizing baroque churches and monasteries.

ReligiousBaroqueChurchesOrnateSpectacular

Comprehensive Architecture Tours

Full tours combining colonial and modern architectural exploration.

Multiple periodsComplete overviewComprehensiveDiverseFull day

Private Architecture Tours

Private tours with personalized architectural focus.

PrivatePersonalizedDetailedFlexibleExclusive

What to Expect on Your Architecture Tour

Duration

Architecture tours: 3-4 hours. Comprehensive tours: 4-6 hours.

Architectural Exploration

Explore colonial, baroque, and contemporary architectural areas.

Architectural Learning

Learn about architectural styles, preservation, and evolution.

Expert Commentary

Guides explain architectural history and significance.

Architectural Context

Understand architectural evolution and Ecuadorian heritage.

Photography

Excellent opportunities to photograph buildings and architecture.

Expert Tips for the Best Experience

1

Architecture tours showcase fascinating diversity

2

Compare colonial with contemporary architecture

3

Architecture tours highlight preservation excellence

4

Camera essential - impressive architectural contrast

5

Architecture tours showcase built heritage

6

Combine with church tours for complete understanding

7

Architecture tours highlight Ecuadorian heritage

8

Architecture tours essential for architecture enthusiasts

Frequently Asked Questions

Q:What architecture can I see?

A: Quito offers architectural diversity including colonial architecture (Old Town, preserved, beautiful), baroque churches (ornate, spectacular), and contemporary buildings creating fascinating built heritage! Colonial architecture impressive. Baroque churches spectacular. Contemporary architecture emerging. Diverse architectural periods. Essential for architecture enthusiasts. Must-see - architectural diversity. Stunning architectural heritage. Fascinating built environment!

Q:How much do architecture tours cost?

A: Architecture tours: $40-70 per person including guide. Comprehensive architecture tours: $70-120 per person. Private architecture tours: $100-180 per person. Prices typically include guide. Entry fees extra for some sites. Book through reputable operators. Tours excellent value for architecture experiences. Essential for architecture enthusiasts. Architecture tours worth the cost!

Q:What makes Quito architecture special?

A: Quito architecture special for being UNESCO World Heritage, best-preserved colonial architecture, exceptional baroque churches, and perfect architectural preservation creating fascinating architectural narrative! UNESCO designation important. Preservation exceptional. Baroque churches outstanding. Different architectural periods visible. Understanding evolution essential. Must-see - architectural diversity. Stunning architectural preservation. Fascinating architectural heritage!

Q:How long do tours take?

A: Basic architecture tours: 3-4 hours covering colonial and baroque areas. Comprehensive architecture tours: 4-6 hours with detailed exploration and extended learning. Most visitors find 3-4 hour tours perfect for architectural overview. Tours flexible based on interests. Allow adequate time for architectural appreciation. Pace allows time for understanding. Architecture tours worth taking time. Tours provide comprehensive architectural experience!

Q:What should I wear?

A: Comfortable walking shoes and casual clothing suitable for walking! Comfortable footwear essential - tours involve walking. Comfortable clothing for walking. Practical, comfortable clothing most important. Comfortable footwear most important. Dress for walking. Practical and comfortable clothing best!

Q:Can I take photos?

A: Yes! Photography encouraged - architecture impressive subjects for photography! Buildings and architectural details interesting to photograph. Photography helps remember architectural diversity. Guides provide photography guidance. Camera essential - architecture worth photographing. Photography opportunities excellent. Architecture photography perfect for memories. Camera essential for architecture tours!

Q:Are tours suitable for families?

A: Architecture tours can be family-friendly depending on children's interests! Children may enjoy seeing buildings and baroque decoration. However, architectural focus may not engage very young children. Some tours can be customized for families. Educational experience for older children. Consider children's interests. Family-friendly with appropriate age considerations!

Q:Why are architecture tours important?

A: Architecture tours important for understanding architectural evolution, appreciating preservation excellence, learning about Ecuadorian heritage, and discovering fascinating architectural contrast that tells story of Quito development creating essential understanding of built heritage! Architectural evolution fascinating. Preservation impressive. Ecuadorian heritage visible. Contrast tells story. Essential for understanding Quito. Must-experience - architectural heritage. Important built environment. Fascinating architectural journey!

Don't Miss the Perfect Quito Experience

Book your architecture tours today - 16+ tours with instant confirmation & best price guarantee!

Why Visit Quito?

UNESCO World Heritage Old Town

Famous Equator line monument

Beautiful colonial architecture

Rich cultural heritage

Excellent Andean cuisine

Perfect blend of history and culture

Best Time to Visit

Weather

Quito enjoys a mild highland climate with consistent temperatures year-round. Average temperatures range from 50°F (10°C) to 70°F (21°C).

Best Months

June to September offers the best weather with dry conditions.

Peak Season

June to September brings peak tourist season with ideal weather, larger crowds, and higher prices.

Off Season

October to May offers lower prices and fewer crowds, though with more rain.

Plan Your Quito Trip

Transportation Tips

Walking is perfect for exploring the Old Town. Public transportation and taxis connect different areas, and organized tours include transportation.

Car Rental Deals in Quito

Rent a car for maximum flexibility and explore at your own pace on Expedia USA.

Where to Stay

Find the perfect accommodation for your Quito adventure. From luxury resorts to cozy hotels, we've got you covered.

Best Hotel Deals in Quito

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Discover the best tours and activities in Quito with AI-powered recommendations tailored just for you.