Quito

Quito is one of the most beautiful and historic cities in South America. Sitting high in the Andes mountains, the city is filled with stunning colonial architecture and a rich culture. Plaza Grande is the main square in the city and is surrounded by some of the most important buildings, including the Presidential Palace and the Cathedral. The city is also home to numerous parks, including the lovely Parque El Ejido, and is a great place to go hiking or mountain biking in the surrounding hills. Quito is also a great place to shop, with a vast array of markets selling everything from handicrafts to local produce. And, of course, no visit to Quito would be complete without sampling some of the delicious Ecuadorian cuisine.