Why It’s Good to Visit a Tourist Information Point in Quito First
Quito is a long, mountain-based city with incredible variety. Between Mariscal Sucre International Airport, the Historic Center, the valleys, and the modern districts, it’s normal to wonder where to begin, how long it takes to get around, and which places are truly worth visiting depending on how many days you have in Ecuador.
Even though there are apps, digital maps, and social media recommendations, nothing replaces talking to someone who knows the city well, can assist you in your language, and can tailor suggestions to your budget, interests, and time. In Quito, you can get that help from an official network of tourist information points managed by Quito Turismo and municipal partners.
Where to Find Tourist Information Points
These points are strategically located exactly where visitors need them most:
– In the heart of the Historic Center, inside the Municipal Palace.
– In La Mariscal, the modern tourist district, at Plaza Foch / Plaza El Quinde.
– At Mariscal Sucre International Airport, in the international arrivals area.
– At Quitumbe Land Terminal, where buses depart to many regions of the country.
What You Can Find at Tourist Information Points
All locations offer printed maps, updated brochures, public transportation details, tour information, and bilingual staff who can help you organize your stay more efficiently. Many also provide extra services such as lockers, Wi-Fi, and the sale of local products.
Knowing how each center works and what it offers will help you save time, avoid confusion, and plan a smarter itinerary from day one.
1. Historic Center – Tienda Quito
Located on the ground floor of the Municipal Palace at the corner of Calle Venezuela and Pasaje Eugenio Espejo, the Tienda Quito in the Historic Center functions as a tourist hub offering 100% Ecuadorian products. From here, you can easily visit iconic sites such as La Compañía Church, the Cathedral, Plaza San Francisco, museums, and La Ronda street.
Services Offered
– Personalized tourist information about Quito and nearby areas.
– Detailed maps and brochures featuring attractions, routes, and cultural events.
– Suggested walking tours around the Historic Center.
– Guidance on public transportation, excursions, and travel times.
– Secure luggage lockers.
– Restrooms for visitors.
– Sale of crafts, textiles, coffee, chocolate, and other Ecuadorian products.
– Bilingual assistance (Spanish and English).
Practical Information
Address: Calle Venezuela and Pasaje Eugenio Espejo, ground floor of the Municipal Palace, Historic Center, Quito.
Hours: Daily from 8:30 AM to 6:00 PM.
2. La Mariscal – Tienda Quito
The second Tienda Quito is located in La Mariscal, a neighborhood known for cafés, restaurants, and hotels. It sits in Plaza El Quinde, Mariscal Foch E7-38 and Calle Reina Victoria, inside the Reina Victoria building.
Services Offered
– Bilingual tourist information about Quito and nearby excursions.
– Free maps and brochures.
– Secure luggage lockers.
– Visitor Wi-Fi access.
– Sale of crafts and local designer products.
– Recommendations for restaurants, nightlife, and activities in the area.
– Advice on transportation options between northern Quito, the Historic Center, and the valleys.
– Additional services such as currency exchange, travel agency support, and a café.
Practical Information
Address: Plaza El Quinde, Mariscal Foch E7-38 and Reina Victoria Street, La Mariscal, Quito.
Hours: Every day from 8:30 AM to 6:00 PM.
3. Mariscal Sucre International Airport – Tourist Information Point
If you arrive in Quito by plane, your first point of contact may be the tourist information desk at Mariscal Sucre International Airport, located in the international arrivals area in Tababela.
Services Offered
– Maps of Quito and surrounding areas.
– Updated guides and brochures on attractions, routes, and activities.
– Transportation information to the city (buses, transfers, authorized taxis).
– Recommendations on where to stay depending on the type of trip.
– Basic information about cultural events and festivals.
– Bilingual assistance.
Practical Information
Location: International arrivals area (public zone), Tababela.
Hours: Mon–Fri 06:00–22:00; Sat–Sun 07:00–19:00.
4. Quitumbe Land Terminal – Tourist Information Point
Quitumbe is the main land terminal in the south of Quito. Inside, the tourist information point sits on the ground floor of the waiting hall, in the VIP area.
Services Offered
– Maps of Quito and nearby areas.
– Informative brochures in Spanish and English.
– Details of urban transportation routes.
– Guidance for connections to other provinces.
– Recommendations for nearby accommodations.
– Safety tips for navigating the terminal.
Practical Information
Address: Av. Cóndor Ñan and Av. Mariscal Sucre, Quitumbe Terminal, Quito.
Hours: Daily from approx. 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM.
How to Make the Most of Tourist Information Points
- Visit them at the start of your day.
- Bring your accommodation and transportation bookings.
- Ask for a paper map as backup.
- Inquire about daily cultural events.
- Use lockers to walk around comfortably.
With four official tourist information points, exploring Quito becomes much easier. Whether you arrive by plane or bus, you’ll always have a place to ask questions and continue your journey confidently.
