If you’re looking for a different kind of getaway, Quito is the perfect destination: a city where the ancestral meets the contemporary, and where holidays bring it to life with color, music, and activities for every taste.
In this article, you’ll find out what to do in Quito during a holiday, with an itinerary designed to cover the highlights of the Historic Center and surrounding areas—without stress or rush. We’ll also introduce you to a unique lodging option: Hotel Casa Ecuatreasures, a boutique, eco-friendly hotel near Quito’s historic center, filled with Andean charm that will make you feel at home while wrapped in the beauty of colonial architecture.
May 2025 holiday in Ecuador: one of the most anticipated
May 24 is one of the most important dates in the calendar of Ecuadorian holidays. It commemorates the Battle of Pichincha, a historic milestone that sealed the country’s independence. Each year, it’s a moment to reflect, celebrate, and explore Ecuador’s most iconic places.
In 2025, the holiday falls on a Friday—making it a perfect long weekend to take a break and discover Ecuador on a deeper level. Many locals and visitors use this opportunity to head to the Sierra, and Quito becomes one of the top destinations.
What to do in Quito during the May 24 holiday?
Whether you’re planning a trip as a couple, with friends, or with family, the capital offers plenty to do in just a few days—no need to leave the city.
This itinerary offers ideas for experiencing the holiday in a relaxed, authentic, and close-up way. And the best part? If you stay at Hotel Casa Ecuatreasures, everything is just a few steps away. This boutique hotel is located in a beautifully restored colonial home in the heart of Quito’s Historic Center, making it the perfect home base for exploring the city on foot.
Historical and cultural walk through the Historic Center
Quito has one of the best-preserved historic centers in Latin America, and exploring it during a holiday like May 24 lets you truly enjoy it—without the usual traffic or crowds. Start at Independence Plaza, home to the Carondelet Palace, the seat of Ecuador’s government. Around it, you’ll find a harmonious mix of churches, museums, and colonial houses that make this area a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Just a short walk from there, don’t miss:
- La Compañía de Jesús Church: considered one of the most beautiful in the Americas, known for its breathtaking gold-covered interior.
- San Francisco Church and Convent: one of Quito’s oldest and largest architectural complexes.
- The Metropolitan Cathedral, Museo del Alabado, and many more cultural spaces you’ll discover as you stroll through cobblestone streets and balconies steeped in history.
Best of all: all these sites are within walking distance of each other, so you can explore at your own pace, with no need for transport.
Andean flavors in the heart of the city
Quito’s culinary scene is an essential part of the experience. While you’re here, treat yourself at traditional markets like San Francisco, or in restaurants that elevate Ecuadorian cuisine, such as:
- La Purísima, great for modern takes on local dishes.
- Hasta la vuelta, Señor, in the Archbishop’s Palace, with traditional ambiance and classic meals.
- Café Plaza Grande, where you can enjoy views of the main plaza while tasting a delicious fanesca or seco de chivo.
Looking for something even more authentic? At the hotel itself, you can join food tours and Andean cooking classes hosted by Joel, Casa Ecuatreasures’ chef. He’ll guide you through ancestral flavors, local ingredients, and traditional cooking techniques passed down through generations. A unique way to connect with Ecuadorian identity through its cuisine.
Relax plan: Andean wellness experiences
After a full day of exploring, there’s also time to unwind. At Casa Ecuatreasures, you can enjoy Andean energy massages—a wellness experience inspired by ancestral practices that blend relaxation techniques with natural elements from the region. Perfect for recharging and reconnecting with yourself.
If you’re in the mood for a slower pace, we recommend a walk along Calle de las Siete Cruces, a stop at a café with rooftop views of the colonial cityscape (like Café Galletti or Café Mosaico), or a leisurely visit to museums such as the Museo de la Ciudad or the Centro Cultural Metropolitano.
Green Quito: visit the city’s historic parks
Quito is not only rich in architecture—it also surprises visitors with green spaces full of history, perfect for walking, breathing fresh air, and relaxing with stunning Andean views. During the May 24 holiday, when the city slows down and the weather is usually mild, these parks offer the perfect break in your itinerary.
Just minutes from the Historic Center is the iconic Itchimbía Park, with a breathtaking panoramic view of the entire city and the surrounding volcanoes. It’s a great spot for photos, a picnic, or just taking in the view.
Another must-see is El Ejido Park, where every weekend and holiday you’ll find an open-air art fair featuring local artists, food stalls, and crafts. If you’re into natural history, nearby La Alameda Park is home to the Quito Astronomical Observatory, one of the oldest in South America.
Why book a room at Hotel Casa Ecuatreasures?
Staying at Hotel Casa Ecuatreasures during the May 24 holiday means more than just a comfortable night’s sleep—it’s about experiencing the soul of Quito in a lovingly restored colonial home that blends heritage with modern comfort.
We’re located right in the Historic Center of Quito, just steps from Plaza Grande, La Compañía Church, San Francisco, museums, markets, and more. Being here means making the most of your time—no need for long commutes. Step outside, and you’re already in the heart of the city’s cultural heritage.
Our rooms preserve the home’s original charm—high ceilings, antique wood, traditional decor—while offering the comfort you expect: spacious beds, hot water, strong wifi, and a peaceful environment to recharge after exploring.
Do you love taking photos? In this house, you’ll find everything from inner courtyards with carefully designed gardens to balconies offering views that blend colonial architecture with Quito’s sky. The stone arches, original wooden beams, and walls painted in warm colors create a cozy atmosphere full of character that looks stunning in photos.
Additionally, the natural light streaming through the large windows highlights the spaces, perfect for boutique-style, natural photos. That’s why we stand out among Quito’s hotels: we’re a place that invites you to strike a pose, create content, and share the beauty of Quito from an authentic and historic setting.
We take care of every detail to make your stay comfortable, safe, and truly special. That’s why we offer:
- Free Andean breakfast with unique local flavors you won’t find elsewhere.
- Personalized concierge service at no cost to help you plan your visit or book experiences.
- Food tours and Andean cooking classes with our in-house chef.
- Traditional Andean energy massages to help you relax.
- Private transfers, for added comfort when getting around.
- Laundry and other tailored services to meet your needs.
Our team is made up of people who love what they do: Alicia, María, Joel, Hernán, and Blanca are here to support you and make your stay unforgettable. We’re proud to welcome guests like family.
Traveling in comfort doesn’t have to mean overspending. At Hotel Casa Ecuatreasures, you’ll find the perfect balance of quality, personalized service, and fair prices. You won’t pay for unnecessary luxury—just for warm, professional, and close attention in a home full of colonial charm and Andean soul.
