Quito

If you see nothing else in Quito, don't miss this. — Fodor's

The fruit of Guayasamín’s greatest vision, this giant monument-cum-museum is a tribute to humankind. — Lonely Planet

Quiteños proudly claim she is the only Madonna in the world depicted with wings. From the summit, there are marvelous views of the sprawling city and the surrounding volcanoes. — Lonely Planet

view from the bottom. from the top? view of the entire city. — Afar Magazine

This can't-miss, three-part museum will give you an in-depth look into the life and work of Oswaldo Guayasamín, perhaps Ecuador's greatest artist. — Frommer's

The resplendent gold-leaf altar, designed by the great Bernardo de Legarda, is pure baroque. — Frommer's

Don't miss the collection of fine French porcelain, beautiful silver dinnerware, and Ecuadoran art from colonial times to the present. — Fodor's

The former home of Mariscal Antonio José de Sucre, the hero of Ecuadorian independence. — Lonely Planet

Just off the plaza, the outstanding Centro Cultural Metropolitano houses several temporary art exhibits, an intriguing museum, two rooftop terraces and a pleasant café on the interior patio. — Lonely Planet

Just north of the Mariscal, this small but worthwhile museum exhibits the artwork, clothing and utensils of Ecuador’s indigenous people, with special emphasis on the peoples of the Oriente. — Lonely Planet

Just past the 18th-century arch, Arco de la Reina, built to give shelter to churchgoers, this first-rate museum depicts Quito’s daily life through the centuries. — Lonely Planet

Noted for its beautiful facade in carefully sculpted stone, large gilded altar, and colorful interior. — Fodor's

San Francisco was the first church built in Quito. — Frommer's

This museum, in a handsomely restored 17th-century building, houses an excellent collection of colonial art. — Lonely Planet

Two blocks from the Plaza Grande, this monastery is a fine example of 17th-century architecture. — Lonely Planet

One of Quito's largest parks, El Ejido is popular for its extensive playgrounds and courts for ecuavoli (three-person volleyball). — Fodor's

Every Good Friday, thousands line the streets of Quito's Centro Historico, while hundreds (or more) parade in purple for over 3 hours in the Procesion de Jesus del Gran Poder. — Afar Magazine