Routes Americas 2018 delegates can experience Quito’s rich culture and history during a free tour. Places are available on the following full-day tours on Monday, 12 February:
La Basilica Church
Basilica del Voto Nacional’s stained glass windows, gargoyles and panoramic views should not be missed by any visitor to Quito. You will also visit Las Colaciones de la Cruz Verde sweet shop, the San Francisco Market, La Ronda's craft shops, Santo Domingo church, have lunch at La Casona de la Ronda and enjoy chocolate at El Quinde Vistors Center.
Calle La Ronda
Calle La Ronda is one of the oldest streets in Quito and famous for its Bohemian past. It has been restored as a place to explore historic buildings, sample traditional food, watch artisans at work and enjoy live entertainment. The tour offers traditional craft workshops and tasting sessions, a visit to Carmen Alto Museums, lunch at Plaza Grande Hotel and a chocolate experience at the Cacao Museum.
Itchimbia Park
There are stunning views of the Old Town at Itchimbia Park along with Palacio de Cristal (the venue for the Networking Evening) which was designed by Gustave Eiffel. You will also visit the San Marcos neighbourhood and the Santa Catalina de Siena Monastery, have lunch at Octava de Corpus restaurant, a cooking class at Illa Hotel and paila ice cream at San Agustín convent.
San Francisco Market
The day will start with a cable car journey and trip to Yaku Water Park Museum which explores the scientific and social significance of water. Next up is San Francisco market where a herb healer will perform a spiritual cleansing process, ‘limpia’. There will be lunch at El Cedrón restaurant, a tour through La Ronda's craft shops, ice cream tasting in Dulce Placer shop and an artistic performance at San Francisco convent.
La Compañía Church
An open-top bus will take you to Compañía de Jesús, a church covered in gold leaf. On the way you will see the religious temples and seven crosses of volcanic rock that line Calle de las Siete Cruces. You will also visit Agustinas Monastery and have lunch at Patio Andaluz hotel.
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