Travel and lodging in Quito: Tips to spend less without compromising quality

Best hotel rates in Quito Old Town

We know that on any trip, costs can quickly add up, and it’s easy to feel like enjoying the best Quito has to offer might be out of reach if you’re trying to stick to a tight budget.

But what if we told you it’s possible to have a wonderful stay in Quito without spending a fortune? In this article, we’ll provide valuable tips on how to plan your trip and find an affordable hotel in Ecuador without sacrificing the quality of your experience.

Quito: A journey to the past and present

The contrast between the old and the new makes Quito a unique destination. You can enjoy the tranquility of its parks and squares, as well as the energy of its markets and festivals. Additionally, the friendliness of its people and the richness of its cuisine will make you feel welcome from the very first moment. However, to make the most of your stay, it’s important to plan carefully and make smart decisions that allow you to enjoy without overspending.

With proper planning, you can find ways to reduce costs while still enjoying everything Quito has to offer. Planning in advance allows you to avoid last-minute rush and stress. You can search and compare options, find special deals, and ensure that every detail of your trip is carefully thought out.

Key planning details

One of the most effective ways to save money on your trip to Quito is to make your reservations in advance. This applies to both flights and accommodations. By booking several months in advance, you have the opportunity to access lower rates and take advantage of special offers. Additionally, planning ahead allows you to compare prices and select the options that best fit your budget and needs.

Best time to visit Ecuador and its capital

Traveling during the off-season can offer significant savings. In Quito, the high season typically coincides with school vacations and major holidays when flight and accommodation prices increase due to high demand. Opting to travel during the off-season, which generally includes the months of March to May and September to November, will allow you to find better rates and enjoy a more peaceful experience with fewer tourists.

Transportation options in Quito

The ecuadorian capital has an efficient public transportation system that includes buses, trolleybuses, and the metro. Using Quito’s public transportation is clearly a cost-effective option, but also an excellent way to get around the city and see it from a local perspective. Ticket costs are very affordable, and the routes cover most of the important tourist spots. Avoiding the use of taxis or private transport services can help you save a considerable amount of money.

Additionally, let’s not forget that Quito’s old town is perfect for exploring on foot. The narrow cobblestone streets, impressive colonial architecture, and numerous squares and parks make walking a pleasant and enriching experience. We’ll talk more about this in the next section. Don’t miss it!

Cheap or free excursions in Quito

Exploring Quito doesn’t have to be expensive. The city offers a wide range of activities and tours that are affordable or even free, allowing you to discover its cultural, historical, and natural richness without spending a fortune.

If there’s one thing the ecuadorian capital has that’s hard to match in other cities, it’s the interesting proposal of walking tours you can do without spending a single dollar. You can move around on your own or join tourist groups.

For example, free walking tours are an excellent way to explore Quito on foot, guided by local experts who will tell you fascinating stories and show you the city’s most important points. These tours usually last between two to three hours and cover the historic center of Quito, allowing you to see emblematic places like Independence Square, the Basilica of the National Vow, and the Church of the Society of Jesus. Although the tours are technically free, it’s recommended to tip the guide at the end of the tour based on your satisfaction and budget.

A special mention for the museums in Quito

The city hosts several museums that offer free admission on certain days of the week or have very affordable rates. These museums will allow you to immerse yourself in ecuadorian history, art, and culture without affecting your budget. We can recommend visiting:

  • Museo del Carmen Alto: This museum, located in an old convent, offers free admission on the first Sunday of each month.
  • Museo de la Ciudad: One of Quito’s most important museums, with very affordable entry and exhibitions that narrate the city’s history from pre-Columbian times to the present.
  • Centro de Arte Contemporáneo: Offers free admission and features a varied program of contemporary art exhibitions.
  • Casa de la Cultura Ecuatoriana: Besides hosting art exhibitions and cultural events, the Casa de la Cultura offers free admission to its library, media library, and archive.
  • Museo Manuela Sáenz: Discover the life and work of Manuela Sáenz, an important figure in South American independence. Admission is free for women on Wednesdays.

Parks and Viewpoints You Can’t Miss

Quito has several parks and viewpoints that offer spectacular views of the city and its surroundings, which can be visited at no cost. These spaces are perfect for relaxing, having a picnic, taking great photos, or simply enjoying the scenery. We recommend:

  • Parque Itchimbía: A large green space with gardens, trails, and a viewpoint that offers panoramic views of Quito’s historic center.
  • Parque La Carolina: One of the largest parks in the city, ideal for walking, running, and enjoying various outdoor activities.
  • El Panecillo: A hill with a giant statue of the Virgin of Quito. From here, you can enjoy an impressive view of the city. Entry to the viewpoint is free, although there is a small fee to climb to the base of the statue.

Tips to save on lodging

Finding the right accommodation in Quito can make a big difference in your travel budget. Fortunately, there are several strategies you can use to ensure you get the best value for your money without compromising the quality of your stay.

Boutique hotel in Quito

Opting for a boutique hotel in Quito can offer you a unique and personalized experience that often surpasses that of large hotel chains. Boutique hotels are usually located in carefully restored historic buildings, allowing you to enjoy local architecture and charm. Additionally, these hotels often offer more personalized service, which can make your stay more pleasant and memorable.

But beware: not all hotels in Quito offer what you’re looking for, even if they are boutique. When looking for accommodation, it’s important to ensure that the hotel includes essential services at no additional cost. Free Wi-Fi access is essential as it will allow you to stay connected, plan your daily activities, and communicate with family and friends. Other services to consider include laundry and the availability of transfers to the airport or nearby tourist spots. And let’s not forget a great highlight of any accommodation: the free breakfast.

All this and much more can be found at Hotel-Casa Ecuatreasures.

The best hotel rates in Quito Old Town

You probably know that one of the best ways to ensure you get the best rate for your accommodation is to compare prices on different online booking platforms. If you search on sites like Booking.com, Expedia, and Airbnb, you’ll find that our Hotel Ecuatreasures has many guest reviews praising our personalized services, facilities, and affordable prices compared to other options.

We invite you to discover the different rooms we have available for you.