10+ Best Places to Stay in Quito, Ecuador: Top Areas and Hotels
Post summary: 10+ best places to stay in Quito, Ecuador
A trip to Ecuador isn’t complete without a stay in Quito!
Most people fly into Quito as the starting point to a larger Ecuador road trip. At the very least you’ll want to spend at least 1-2 days acclimating to the high altitude in Ecuador before you continue your travels; but there’s so much to see and do in Quito, that you can easily dedicate more time to exploring the city.
While you’re there, you won’t have any trouble finding a great place to stay in Quito. This historic city is full of unique and charming hotels and guesthouses.
Whether you’re traveling on a budget or ready to splurge a little, you have a ton of places to choose from (think Andean views, old town charm, and walkable neighborhoods).
But Quito is a very large city and where you base yourself really does shape your whole experience.
So, after spending some time exploring different parts of the city, I put together this quick guide to the best areas and hotels to stay near Quito’s top sights.
Guides to help you plan your trip to Ecuador
What to Know About Ecuador Before You Go
How to Use Google Maps to Plan Your Next Road Trip (Step-By-Step Tutorial With Examples)
15 Useful Apps to Download Before Your Next Road Trip (for Free!)
Best Hotels in Quito at a Glance
- Best value: Friends Hotel
- Best for a quick stay: Chakana Hotel Boutique
- Best for solo travelers: Viajero Quito Hostel
- Most luxurious stay in Quito: Le Parc Hotel
- Best nightlife: Hotel Reina Isabel
Rooftop view over the Historic Center of Quito
Where to Stay in Quito – The Best Neighborhoods
Quito is a big city with many different neighborhoods, some of which are safer for tourists than others.
When choosing where to stay in Quito, stick to the Historic Center (Old Town) or the northern neighborhoods. These areas are the safest and most tourist friendly.
Historic Center (Centro Histórico)
This is the heart of old Quito. It’s all cobblestone streets, colonial churches, and grand plazas that make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. This is likely the part of Quito you came to see, close to all of the best viewpoints, cultural sites and things to do in the city.
- Budget: Budget to mid-range
- Things to do: Plaza Grande, La Compañía Church, San Francisco Monastery, El Panecillo viewpoint
- Best for: First time visitors, history, and to be walking distance to popular landmarks
La Mariscal
La Mariscal is the social scene of Quito. This is where you’ll find the nightlife, tons of bars and restaurants, and a younger, more energetic vibe – especially around Plaza Foch. This is the best area of Quito to stay in for a more social atmosphere.
- Budget: Budget to mid-range
- Things to do: Plaza Foch, live music, craft beer bars, international restaurants
- Best for: Night owls, solo travelers, and anyone looking to go out, meet people, and have fun
La Floresta
La Floresta is an area of Quito that feels more local and artsy. It has a creative, relaxed vibe that’s perfect if you’re not into big crowds. The streets are lined with colorful murals, trendy cafés and some of the best boutique stays in the city.
- Budget: Mid to high-range
- Things to do: Ocho y Medio Cinema, La Floresta street art, weekend markets, cute cafés
- Best for: Couples, creatives, and travelers who want to stay in a quieter area that still feels close to everything
Avoid staying in southern Quito, as it’s generally less safe and far from major attractions. Sticking to the northern part of the city or the Historic Center will give you the best and safest experience.
Historic Center (Centro Histórico) neighborhood in Quito
Best Hotels in Quito for a Memorable Stay
From boutique stays in Old Town to budget-friendly hostels in the northern part of the city, this list will help you find the perfect spot for your visit to Ecuador’s capital.
1. Friends Hotel & Rooftop | Quito’s Historic Center
This is my top pick for best hotels in Quito’s Historic Center.
Friends Hotel has some of the best views of the city’s colonial skyline from their rooftop terrace, including the famous Basilica del Voto Nacional, and an AMAZING local breakfast included in your stay.
Its central location makes it easy to explore Old Town’s best attractions like Plaza Grande. La Ronda, a picturesque street filled with cafes, artisan shops, and live music, is only a short walk away.
The rooms are cozy and colorful, decorated with local artwork that gives the space a welcoming, authentic feel.
We loved our stay here so much that we stayed twice during our 2 week road trip through Ecuador – first at the start of our trip to get our bearings, and again at the end to wrap up our trip. Highly recommend!
Rooftop view at Friends Hotel
2. Chakana Hotel Boutique | Historic Center
If you want a stay that blends traditional Andean culture with modern comfort, Chakana Hotel Boutique is a great choice.
This boutique hotel is in Quito’s Historic Center, just a short walk from San Blas Plaza and local craft markets.
The rooms are cozy and uniquely decorated, featuring handmade furniture, indigenous textiles, and vibrant artwork.
Relax in the quiet courtyard or enjoy a meal at the on site restaurant, which serves continental, vegetarian, and vegan options.
Cozy room at Chakana Hotel Boutique
3. Viajero Quito Hostel | Old Town, Centro Histórico
If you’re on a budget and want a social, laid-back stay, check out Viajero Quito Hostel.
Set in a colonial-style building in the Historic Center, you’ll have a choice of mixed dorms or private rooms, all with colorful, quirky décor.
The courtyard, communal kitchen, and regular social events make it easy to meet other travelers, which is ideal if you’re traveling solo.
The hostel also hosts walking tours, salsa lessons, and game nights, so there’s always something going on. Plaza San Francisco and La Ronda are just a short walk away.
For food, head to Restaurante Pim’s, where you can enjoy local dishes with views of El Panecillo.
Viajero Quito Hostel
4. The Secret Garden | Historic Center
Positioned high on a hill in the Old Town, The Secret Garden is a social, laid back hostel with amazing views of the city.
The rooftop café and hammocks make it a great place to relax, meet fellow travelers, and watch the sunset over Quito’s skyline.
Rooms range from mixed dorms to very modest private rooms. All rooms have shared bathrooms.
There’s always something happening here, whether its yoga classes, Spanish lessons, or group excursion to Cotopaxi or Mitad del Mundo.
You actually might find yourself staying here anyway if you book a tour to the Amazon because this hostel is the meeting point for the night bus that takes you to Cuyabeno Wildlife Refuge.
If you know that’s part of your itinerary, you might want to book a room here since the buses leave in the middle of the night!
Rooftop view at The Secret Garden Hostel
5. Swissôtel Quito | La Floresta
If you’re looking for a traditional hotel experience, you can’t go wrong with Swissôtel Quito.
This is a 5-star hotel in the trendy La Floresta neighborhood, known for its tree-lined streets, local cafés, and creative atmosphere.
The rooms are spacious and modern, with plush bedding and city or mountain views. Amenities include an indoor pool, a spa where you can get a hydromassage, and a fitness center.
There’s also a range of fine dining options on site, so you don’t even have to leave to get food.
If you prefer to venture out (which I highly recommend), the hotel is close to some of Quito’s best restaurants like Zazu Quito, and more casual spots with amazing city views, like Café Mosaico.
The La Mariscal Artisan Market (Mercado Artesanal La Mariscal) is also nearby, at the intersection of Jorge Washington and Reina Victoria streets. It’s Quito’s largest artisan market where you can find a huge variety of Ecuadorian handicrafts like wool blankets, tapestries, wood carvings, clothing, and chocolate.
So you know: Bargaining is common practice at the markets in Ecuador, so don’t be scared to negotiate for a better price! Here are more important things to know before you go to Ecuador.
Outdoor pool at Swissôtel Quito
6. ArtPlaza | La Mariscal
ArtPlaza is a great pick if you’re into artsy boutique hotels with a lot of character. The space is bright, colorful, and filled with plants, giving it a fun and welcoming vibe.
Rooms are modern but still feel creative, with bold artwork and thoughtful design details. There’s also a cozy lounge where you can hang out or plan your next adventure.
Breakfast is included in your stay and perfectly filling, which is nice when you have a full day ahead.
While you’re in the area, check out nearby art galleries, catch some live music, and don’t leave without stopping by Paccari Experience House for some of the best Ecuadorian chocolate in the city.
Front of ArtPlaza Hotel in La Mariscal neighborhood, Quito
7. Le Parc Hotel, Beyond Stars | Financial District
Le Parc Hotel is a modern, upscale stay near Parque La Carolina in Quito’s financial district.
You’ll love the sleek and luxurious suites, with floor to ceiling windows, rain showers, and minimalist décor.
The rooftop bar is a highlight of this hotel, with panoramic city views and signature cocktails. To wind down, head to the spa for sauna therapy and massage treatments.
Le Parc Hotel is walking distance to Parque La Carolina and Quicentro Mall. As weird as it sounds, this mall was one of the highlights of our time in Quito. It’s so unexpectedly modern and always filled with people!
For food, check out ZFood Pescadería for fresh seafood or grab coffee and pastries at Cyril Boutique.
Note: Quito’s Financial District is safe and quiet, with skyscrapers, parks, and lots of fancy restaurants. But it’s more of a business hub than the cultural hotspot that most people visit Quito for. If you stay here, plan to take a 15- 20 minute taxi ride to reach the Old Town. Luckily taxis and Uber are very cheap here!
8. Hotel Reina Isabel | La Mariscal
Located in La Mariscal, Hotel Reina Isabel is a demure 4-star hotel in Quito surrounded by nightlife, cafés, and boutique shops. It’s the best choice if you want a mix of culture, nightlife, and entertainment.
Rooms are elegant and cozy, with parquet floors, classic décor, and comfy beds.
The hotel also has a spa and an on site restaurant, so you can unwind before heading out for the night.
For nightlife, Foch Square is just around the corner, packed with bars and live music.
Before going out, you HAVE to grab an authentic Ecuadorian meal at Miskay Restaurant. This little understated restaurant serves great ceviche and traditional Ecuadorian food – it’s also a great place to try guinea pig (if you’re brave).
Dining room at Hotel Reina Isabel
9. Casona 1914 | Historic Center
Casona 1914 is located in a beautifully restored colonial mansion in Centro Histórico. The pastel-colored walls, antique décor, and lush gardens make it one of the best places to stay in Quito’s Historic Center.
Each room is uniquely styled with classic furnishings and luxe linens. The hotel offers a complimentary breakfast in a charming dining room overlooking the garden.
You’ll also enjoy a shared lounge, complimentary Wi-Fi, and inner courtyard views from the large suite windows.
For things to do nearby, catch a show at Teatro Sucre for a dose of local culture, or take a bike tour to explore the city on two wheels.
Casona 1914
10. Hotel Bellavista | Bellavista
Hotel Bellavista is a quiet little retreat surrounded by trees in the Bellavista neighborhood, just outside the main tourist areas while still being close to the city.
If you love being surrounded by trees but still want to be close to restaurants, museums, and parks, this spot strikes a good balance.
Rooms are simple but cozy, with flat-screen TVs, Wi-Fi, and basics like free toiletries. The garden and filling, homemade breakfasts are a highlight here.
Visit the Guayasamín Museum nearby, hike through Metropolitan Park, or even do some birdwatching. For unique dining, check out El Árabe Restaurante for some awesome Middle Eastern food.
Heads up: The Bellavista neighborhood in Quito is safe and quiet, but it’s not as central as La Floresta or La Mariscal. While it’s close to nature and museums, expect to take a taxi or Uber to get to most major attractions. If you want a more walkable area with cafés and nightlife, a hotel in La Floresta is probably a better fit.
11. Stubel Suites & Café | Guápulo Valley
This Quito hotel is alllll about the views!
If you prefer hilltop views to city streets, you’ll love Stubel Suites & Café. Perched on a lush hillside overlooking Guápulo Valley, this hotel has some of the best panoramic views in Quito.
The quiet location is best if you want a peaceful escape, but still pretty close to the city.
Rooms are modern and spacious, with floor-to-ceiling windows with incredible views of the valley.
The on-site café serves local and international dishes, and there’s a cocktail bar perfect for enjoying a drink and views at sunset.
Explore the vibrant, cobblestoned streets, admire the Gothic Guápulo Church, or hike along the scenic trails in the valley. After that, get pizza or Mediterranean cuisine from Ananké Guápulo.
Note: Guápulo is a quiet, scenic area just outside La Floresta with a super relaxed vibe. However, you’ll need to rely on taxis or Uber to get around. If you prefer a more central, walkable area, you might prefer to stay in La Floresta or La Mariscal instead.
Double room at Stubel Suites & Café
Quito’s Best Hotels | FAQs
Here are quick answers to some of the most common questions you might have about visiting Quito, Ecuador.
Which Area of Quito Is Best to Stay in?
Personally, I think Quito’s Historical Center is the best area of Quito to stay in. It’s walking distance to many of the city’s best highlights and cultural sites, which are likely the entire reason you wanted to visit Quito in the first place. But if you want to avoid the crowds, try staying in La Mariscal and La Floresta at the northern end of the city.
How Many Days Are Enough in Quito?
Two or three full days is enough to see the best spots in Quito, Old Town, Mitad del Mundo, and El Panecillo. If you choose to stay longer, you’ll have enough time to take day trips to places like Mindo, Otavavalo, and Cotopaxi National Park.
What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Quito?
June to September (the dry season) is the best time to visit Quito, with clear skies and comfortable temps. That said, Quito has a pretty mild climate year round, so any time is fine.
Did you find this Quito accommodation guide helpful? Let me know in the comments!
More South America Adventures:
Easter Island: 4-day Easter Island Itinerary
Ecuador Road Trip: Ecuador 2-Week Itinerary: The Ultimate Travel Guide
This post was published on March 31, 2025
Related Posts
WANT TO SAVE MONEY TRAVELING?
Check out my list of reliable budget-friendly travel resources that are guaranteed to save you the most money, without compromising your experience.