La Ronda Quito: 7 Honest Things to Do on Calle La Ronda
La Ronda Quito (officially Calle La Ronda) is a restored 17th-century pedestrian street in Quito’s UNESCO-listed Old Town — the first city in the world declared a World Heritage Site (1978). It runs along Morales Street between Venezuela and Guayaquil, rated 4.3 out of 5 by 2,579 Tripadvisor travelers and ranks #19 of 290 things to do in Quito. The street comes alive after 7pm with empanadas de viento, canelazo, live music, and artisan workshops you can step inside.
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If you want to experience the cultural heart of Quito, there’s no better place than La Ronda. This iconic colonial street blends history, gastronomy, artisan culture, and nightlife into one unforgettable experience.
Located in the famous Quito Historic Center, La Ronda is one of the most visited and most photogenic spots in Ecuador.
This complete guide covers everything you need: what to do, what to eat, safety tips, and insider advice to make the most of your visit.
What is La Ronda Quito? (Calle La Ronda)
A bit of context most guides skip: the street follows the old Ullaguanga-huayaco creek bed, an ancient indigenous path that pre-dates the colonial city. By the 19th century, La Ronda had become a meeting point for poets, musicians and intellectuals — including Eugenio Espejo, a precursor of Ecuadorian independence. There’s even a hidden underground speakeasy locals call The Bat House tucked behind one of the colonial doorways. Walk slowly and you’ll spot details (numbered house markers, courtyards, hand-painted signs) most visitors miss entirely.
La Ronda is one of the oldest streets in Quito, dating back to colonial times. Today, it has been beautifully restored and transformed into a cultural hotspot featuring:
- Traditional artisan workshops
- Ecuadorian food and drinks
- Museums and galleries
- Live music and nightlife
It’s a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the Quito Historic Center.
Top Things to Do in La Ronda Quito Ecuador
1. Discover Artisan Workshops
One of the most unique experiences in La Ronda is stepping inside its traditional artisan workshops — working studios, not gift shops. You can sit at a real Andean loom and try weaving with the artisans, watch family-run wooden toy makers who’ve passed the craft down three generations, or taste traditional fruit ice cream made from indigenous Andean fruits (mortiño, taxo, naranjilla) using recipes that pre-date refrigeration. Most travelers walk past these doors. Step inside and you’ll meet people who actually make what they sell. Not sure where this fits in your itinerary? Send us your dates and we will sort the order out.
Don’t miss Casa de las Artes (Houses 989-999), a museum and gallery spread across nine rooms with rotating exhibits of Quiteño art plus a recreated colonial-era domestic interior. It’s free to walk in, and the staff will talk you through the pieces if you ask. Allow 30-45 minutes if you want to see it properly.
- Hand-carved wooden toys
- Traditional musical instruments
- Handmade sweets and candies
- Decorative crafts inspired by Andean culture
Many artisans are happy to explain their process, making this a hands-on cultural experience rather than just shopping.
2. Try Traditional Ecuadorian Food (Must-Do Culinary Experience)
Food is at the heart of the La Ronda Quito Historic Street Guide experience. The street is filled with small local spots offering traditional flavors you won’t want to miss.
Top dishes and drinks include:
- Empanadas de viento – Light, crispy pastries filled with cheese and topped with sugar
- Canelazo – A warm drink made with cinnamon, sugar, and aguardiente
- Helado de paila – Handcrafted ice cream made in copper pans
Pro tip: Try canelazo in the evening when the temperature drops, it’s part of the authentic Quito experience.
Experience La Ronda at Night (Best Atmosphere & Nightlife)
During the day, La Ronda is calm and cultural, but at night, it transforms into one of the most vibrant areas in Quito. Expect:
- Live Andean and Latin music
- Street performers and entertainers
- Bars with traditional and modern drinks
- A lively, social atmosphere
The street lighting and colonial architecture create a romantic and energetic ambiance, making it ideal for couples and travelers alike.
4. Take Photos of Colonial Architecture (Top Photo Spot in Quito)
La Ronda is one of the most photogenic streets in Ecuador thanks to its preserved colonial charm.
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View itineraryYou’ll see:
- Narrow cobblestone streets
- Brightly painted houses
- Wooden balconies filled with flowers
- Warm lantern lighting at night
It’s especially beautiful during:
- Golden hour (late afternoon)
- Evening when lights turn on
5. Visit Chocolate & Sweet Shops (Taste Ecuador’s Cacao)
Ecuador is globally recognized for its high-quality cacao, and La Ronda is a great place to experience it.
You can:
- Taste artisanal Ecuadorian chocolate
- Learn about cacao production
- Try traditional sweets made locally
Some shops even offer demonstrations, making this both a tasting and learning experience.
6. Enjoy Street Performances & Cultural Shows
Another highlight of La Ronda is its spontaneous cultural energy.
Depending on the day, you may encounter:
- Traditional musicians
- Dance performances
- Street artists and entertainers
These performances add authenticity and make every visit slightly different.
7. Relax in Cafés & Bars (Slow Travel Experience)
If you prefer a slower pace, La Ronda is also perfect for sitting down and soaking in the atmosphere.
You’ll find:
- Cozy cafes with Ecuadorian coffee
- Small bars with local drinks
- Outdoor seating with street views
What to Eat on Calle La Ronda Quito
| Dish / Drink | Description | How Locals Enjoy It | When to Try |
| Empanadas de viento | Crispy fried pastry filled with cheese and topped with sugar | Eaten hot, usually standing on the street | Evening / cold weather |
| Humitas | Soft corn-based dough, slightly sweet, wrapped in husks | With coffee as a light snack | Afternoon |
| Quimbolitos | Fluffy sweet cake steamed in leaves, often with raisins | As dessert with hot drinks | Afternoon / evening |
| Tamales | Savory corn dough with chicken or pork filling | A more filling snack or light meal | Anytime |
| Locro de papa | Creamy potato soup with cheese and avocado | Warm comfort food for cold nights | Evening |
| Traditional Canelazo Quiteño | Warm drink with cinnamon, sugar, and aguardiente | Sipped slowly while walking La Ronda | Night (best experience) |
| Colada morada | Thick, warm drink made with fruits and spices | Seasonal, often with guaguas de pan | Afternoon |
| Ecuadorian hot chocolate | Rich cacao-based drink, often served with cheese | Dipped cheese into chocolate (local style) | Evening |
| Local craft beer | Small Ecuadorian breweries | Relax in bars and enjoy slowly | Evening |
Honest price benchmark: travelers report paying around $13 USD for 4 large empanadas plus drinks at the street-side spots (per recent Tripadvisor reviews — roughly $3.25 per empanada). Sit-down restaurants run $10-18 per main course (higher than downtown comedores, but you’re paying for the colonial-street experience). Canelazo is usually $3-4 per cup. Bring cash — many smaller spots don’t take cards.
Best Time to Visit La Ronda en Quito
- Daytime: Quiet, cultural, great for photos
- Evening: Lively, music, food, nightlife
- Weekend: Most vibrant atmosphere
Tip: Visit in the evening for the full experience.
Safety Tips for La Ronda Street Quito
La Ronda is generally safe, especially because it’s a tourist area, but:
- Stay within the main street
- Avoid empty surrounding streets late at night
- Keep an eye on your belongings
- Use registered taxis or ride apps
How to Get to La Ronda Quito Ecuador
Located in the Quito Historic Center:
- Taxi or Uber from anywhere in Quito
- Walking distance from major historic attractions
The precise address: Calle La Ronda runs along Morales Street between Venezuela and Guayaquil, in the heart of Quito’s Historic Center. From Plaza Grande, walk south down García Moreno street for about 10 minutes (3 short blocks). The easiest public transit is the Trole (trolleybus) — get off at Plaza de Santo Domingo and you’re at the entrance. Restaurants and bars run from 3pm to midnight; artisan galleries open 10am to 6pm. If you’re staying at Casa Gangotena boutique hotel or any spot near Plaza San Francisco, La Ronda is a 5-minute downhill walk — ask reception for the route through García Moreno. La Ronda was restored as a cultural pedestrian street in 2006, and it’s one of the few Old Town streets where cars don’t pass through.
Questions About La Ronda Quito
What is La Ronda Quito?
La Ronda Quito (Calle La Ronda) is a restored 17th-century pedestrian street in Quito’s Old Town. Locals know it for its colorful colonial houses, artisan workshops, live music, and traditional Ecuadorian food and drink — especially after 7pm when the street comes alive.
Is La Ronda Quito worth visiting?
Absolutely. La Ronda is one of the most iconic streets in Quito and offers a perfect mix of history, food, and nightlife. Tripadvisor ranks it #19 of 290 things to do in Quito based on 2,579 traveler reviews.
Is La Ronda safe at night?
La Ronda Quito is generally safe in the early evening (until about 10pm) thanks to its popularity and visible police presence. Stay on the main pedestrian section, don’t wander into nearby unlit streets, and keep valuables out of sight — the same advice you’d take in any Old Town district.
How much time do you need in La Ronda?
Plan 2 to 3 hours if you only want to walk the street, photograph the colonial houses and grab an empanada. Stay longer (3 to 4 hours) if you also want to step into the artisan workshops, sit down for dinner, and catch live music.
Is La Ronda good for families?
Yes, especially during daylight and early evening. Kids enjoy the chocolate shops, traditional ice cream, wooden toy makers, and the occasional street performance. Late nights are better for adults.
Do you need to pay to enter La Ronda?
Entry to La Ronda Quito is free. You only pay for food, drinks, workshops, or specific experiences. Walking the street, taking photos and watching musicians costs nothing.
When is La Ronda Quito most lively?
Friday and Saturday evenings from about 7pm to 11pm are the peak — music spills onto the street, restaurants fill up, and the canelazo (warm spiced sugarcane drink) starts flowing. Weekdays are calmer and better if you want to actually talk to the artisans.
How do I get to La Ronda from Plaza Grande?
From Plaza Grande, walk south down García Moreno street for about 10 minutes (3 short blocks) to reach the start of Calle La Ronda. You can also take the Trole (trolleybus) and get off at Plaza de Santo Domingo, which leaves you right at the entrance.
One Last Thing Before You Go
La Ronda is best when you don’t plan it too tight — walk in from Plaza Grande around 7pm, let the canelazo and the music decide the rest. If you want the broader picture of the neighborhood La Ronda sits in, our Quito Old Town guide covers the surrounding streets, plazas and what to skip. And if you’d rather have someone walk you through it, the Ecuador tours below all start right here in Quito.
La Ronda is one piece of what makes Quito Old Town special. If you want to walk it with someone who knows the back stories — and pair it with Cotopaxi, Otavalo or the Amazon — we run small-group Ecuador trips that start right here in Quito. See our full Old Town guide or reach out when you’re ready to plan.
