Calle la Ronda

The street you’re walking up now is known as the most beautiful in Quito — and it’s not hard to see why. This well-preserved pedestrian lane looks almost exactly as it did in the 18th century, with its white colonial houses and ornate balconies offering a vivid glimpse of what Quito must have looked like after the Spanish settled in. In the early 20th century, Calle La Ronda became a magnet for artists and intellectuals, evolving into a lively center of bohemian culture, political debate, and creative expression. Painters, poets, and musicians filled its now-legendary cabarets, making it one of the city’s most spirited and storied streets. Take your time as you walk — the city has installed historical plaques along the way, and they’re full of fascinating tidbits. One of the highlights is the Casa del Murciélago, or “Bat House,” where the basement once housed a secret bar that became a favorite hangout for musicians in the 1930s. Today, La Ronda is one of Quito’s most popular spots for both locals and visitors. You’ll find cozy restaurants serving up classic Ecuadorian dishes, cafés where literature and conversation flow freely, artisan boutiques, and chocolate shops offering handmade treats. It’s the perfect place to slow down, sample something sweet or savory, and enjoy the music drifting from the café-concerts all around you.