13 Wonderful Things to Do in Quito

Hang Out In ‘La Floresta’ Neighbourhood

Community art studios, hipster restaurants, independent coffee shops, contemporary art galleries and a vibrant street art scene. There is no doubt: La Floresta is the undeniable epicentre of Quito’s thriving art scene.

But to visitors passing through, all of this may not be immediately obvious. We spent several hours roaming the streets of La Floresta, and whilst they are undeniably colourful and the alternative vibe is clear, we couldn’t immediately find many things ‘to do’ – a conversation with a Quiteño a few days later explained that this is part of what makes La Floresta such an enjoyable place to live. As it turns out, this barrio has fiercely resisted gentrification and it is a place led by the community, which means that unless you are part of the community and in the know, it may seem a little, well, empty.

If you would like to explore the neighbourhood independently, we’d recommend visiting in the week if possible (when we were advised that more places were open), and be sure to add these spots to the list.

Ocho y Medio (maps) | Founded in 2001 by a group of film makers and artists keen to promote cinematic culture to a local audience, this indie theatre in the La Floresta neighbourhood shares screenings of international and local independent films, and even has it’s own ‘film festival’. Find out more on their website.

La Floresta Mercado Agroecológico (maps) | A local market where you can shop for local produce or indulge in a you can pick up produce or a hearty $3 almuerzo (a customary three-course lunch) from 20-plus vendors. You’ll go to Botánica for the artisanal panini and fig cheesecake; you’ll stay for the ambience.

La Huerta y La Máquina* (maps) | Primarily aimed at the local community, ‘La Huerta’ teaches the art of horticulture, whereas ‘La Máquina’ allows people to learn how to upcycle old furniture, or create new. For the tourists they have regular art exhibitions.

We can’t confirm that this spot is still definitely open; if anyone tries to visit and confirm we’d really appreciate it!

Libertina Tienda Galería (maps) | An independent boutique ran by designer Tifa Torres, Libertina is a space where a number of independent designers can sell their wares. You’ll discover clothes, furniture, art, as well as a cute little coffee shop.

La Cleta (maps) | The definitive hipster hangout in La Floresta, this little bicycle café provides excellent coffee and beer in equal measure. It’s also an great place to hangout at the weekend, with the evenings being particularly lively! Note that it opens from late afternoon onwards – find it here.

Trude Sojka Cultural House (maps) | Trude Sojka, a celebrated Czech artist, was also a Holocaust surviver who fled to Ecuador upon liberation from Auschwitz. Shortly after her death in 2007, her daughters decided to convert her old home into a memorial – both to her life’s work (the house is filled with her paintings and sculptures) but also as a testament to the atrocities that she endured during the Second World War. This is unfortunately somewhere that we did not know existed until leaving Quito, but others that have visited have found it incredibly moving, and recommend it highly. Find it here.

Travel Tip // If you’re in Quito for at least a couple of weeks, we’d actually highly recommend La Floresta as a base. This is a great Airbnb option in the neighbourhood. Airbnb is actually the most affordable accommodation option in Quito for travelling couples and families – take a look at the 23 Best Airbnbs in Quito post for more information.