Cuenca
Djibouti City stands where the Red Sea greets the Horn of Africa. Wander through the local markets to pick up unique crafts, take in the serene surroundings of the Hamoudi Mosque, and cap off your day by watching ships sail into the harbor against a backdrop of a fiery sunset.
Chapters
Local Tips
• Historical center UNESCO site
• New Cathedral’s blue domes
• Panama hat manufacture
• Cajas National Park nearby
• Cultural festivals
• Less fluent English
• Chilly nights
• Occasional overcast skies
Currency: –
Festivities: –
Cuenca Guide
Guide for 1 Day
Morning
- Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Café Austria, a local hotspot known for its Austrian-style pastries and coffee.
- Explore the colonial architecture of Plaza San Sebastián, a picturesque square with a beautiful church and colorful buildings.
- Visit the Museo de las Culturas Aborígenes, a museum dedicated to the indigenous cultures of Ecuador.
Midday
- Savor traditional Ecuadorian cuisine for lunch at Tiestos Café, a cozy restaurant that features local ingredients and flavors.
- Stroll through the charming cobblestone streets of El Barranco, a historic neighborhood filled with colorful houses and stunning views of the Tomebamba River.
Afternoon
- Discover the hidden gem of Mirador de Turi, a scenic viewpoint that offers panoramic views of Cuenca and the surrounding mountains.
- Experience the local culture at Mercado 10 de Agosto, a bustling market where you can find everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts.
Evening
- Indulge in a gourmet dinner at La Viña Ardiente, a cozy restaurant that specializes in Ecuadorian and Mediterranean fusion cuisine.
- Sip on craft cocktails at La Compañía Cocktail Bar, a trendy bar with a cozy ambiance.
- End the night with live music at Jazz Society Café, a popular venue that showcases local and international jazz talent.
Guide for 2 Days
Day 1
Morning
- Start the day with a hearty breakfast at Mercado 10 de Agosto and try traditional Ecuadorian dishes such as locro de papas or churrasco.
- Take a stroll through the charming streets of San Sebastian, admiring the colorful houses and colonial architecture.
- Visit the impressive Catedral de la Inmaculada Concepción, one of the largest cathedrals in South America.
Midday
- Satisfy your hunger with a delicious almuerzo at Mercado 9 de Octubre, where you can try a variety of local dishes.
- Take a short walk to Mirador de Turi for breathtaking panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains.
Afternoon
- Explore the unique and quirky exhibits at Museo del Sombrero, dedicated to the history and craftsmanship of traditional Ecuadorian hats.
- Visit the colorful Plaza de San Francisco, home to the beautiful San Francisco Church and bustling market stalls selling handicrafts and souvenirs.
Evening
- Indulge in a delicious dinner at Tiesto’s, known for its innovative Ecuadorian cuisine and cozy atmosphere.
- Sip on a craft beer or artisanal cocktail at La Fábrica Bar, a trendy spot with a laid-back vibe.
- Experience the local nightlife scene at Calle Larga, where you can find plenty of bars and clubs to dance the night away.
Day 2
Morning
- Start the day with a delicious breakfast at Café Austria, a cozy café with a Viennese-style menu.
- Explore the beautiful gardens and impressive art collection at Museo de Arte Moderno, housed in a stunning colonial building.
- Visit the unique Parque de las Flores, a colorful park filled with flowers and sculptures.
Midday
- Enjoy a tasty lunch at Cafetería San Blas, a local favorite known for its sandwiches and fresh juices.
- Take a short walk to Museo del CIDAP, showcasing the cultural heritage of Ecuador’s indigenous communities.
Afternoon
- Discover the hidden gem of Parque Nacional Cajas, a stunning national park with hiking trails and breathtaking views of the Andean mountains.
- Visit the charming Plaza de las Conceptas, home to the beautiful Convento de las Conceptas and quaint cafés and shops.
Evening
- Savor a delicious dinner at Moliendo Café, known for its traditional Ecuadorian dishes and live music.
- Relax with a drink at La Viña del Señor, a cozy wine bar with a wide selection of local and international wines.
- Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Plaza de la Cruz del Vado, a bustling square with street performers and lively bars.
Guide for 3 Days
Day 1
Morning
- Enjoy a traditional Ecuadorian breakfast at Mercado 10 de Agosto.
- Visit the stunning Catedral de la Inmaculada Concepción.
- Explore the unique and colorful houses of Las Herrerías.
Midday
- Savor a delicious lunch at Cafetería Tutto Freddo.
- Stroll through the picturesque Parque de la Madre.
Afternoon
- Visit the fascinating Museo de las Culturas Aborígenes.
- Experience the beautiful Barrio de San Blas.
Evening
- Indulge in a delicious dinner at El Mercadito.
- Enjoy a drink at the trendy La Fábrica Bar.
- Experience the local nightlife at La Chicha bar.
Day 2
Morning
- Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Café Austria.
- Visit the breathtaking Mirador de Turi.
- Experience the local culture at the Mercado 9 de Octubre.
Midday
- Enjoy a delicious lunch at Raymipampa.
- Explore the stunning Parque Nacional Cajas.
Afternoon
- Visit the unique Museo del Sombrero.
- Take a stroll through the charming Barrio del Vergel.
Evening
- Savor a delicious dinner at Los Tiestos.
- Relax with a drink at the cozy La Viña del Señor.
- Experience the local culture with live music at La Cigale.
Day 3
Morning
- Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Café San Sebas.
- Visit the historic Casa del Sombrero.
- Explore the charming Barrio de El Carmen.
Midday
- Savor a delicious lunch at Los Tiestos del Jardín.
- Take a stroll through the beautiful Parque Calderón.
Afternoon
- Visit the unique Museo de la Medicina.
- Explore the stunning Barrio de El Vado.
Evening
- Indulge in a delicious dinner at La Esquina.
- Enjoy a drink at the cozy La Guarida Bar.
- Experience the local nightlife at La Mesa de Juan.
Guide for 5 Days
Day 1
Morning
- Start your day with a traditional breakfast at San Sebas Cafeteria, then head to the Cuenca Cathedral to admire its stunning architecture.
- Take a stroll through the Flower Market and soak up the local culture.
- Visit the Mirador de Turi for panoramic views of the city.
Midday
- Enjoy a delicious lunch at El Mercado, a trendy food market with a variety of options.
- Explore the Museo de las Culturas Aborígenes, which showcases the history and traditions of indigenous cultures in the region.
Afternoon
- Discover hidden gems at the Museo de la Casa de la Cultura, where you can find art exhibitions and cultural events.
- Take a leisurely walk along the Rio Tomebamba, a beautiful river that runs through the heart of the city.
Evening
- Savor a delightful dinner at La Esquina, a cozy restaurant that serves traditional Ecuadorian cuisine.
- Experience the lively atmosphere of La Chakra Bar, where you can enjoy local drinks and music.
- End your day with a relaxing stroll through the Parque de la Madre.
Day 2
Morning
- Start your day with a delicious breakfast at La Guarida Café, a charming café with a lovely courtyard.
- Visit the Museo Pumapungo, which houses a collection of Incan artifacts and exhibits about Ecuador’s history.
- Take a walk through the Plaza de las Flores, a vibrant market filled with colorful flowers and plants.
Midday
- Enjoy a tasty lunch at El Cielo, a vegetarian restaurant with a beautiful rooftop terrace.
- Discover the Casa de la Mujer Museum, which celebrates the role of women in Ecuadorian history and culture.
Afternoon
- Explore the Mercado 9 de Octubre, a bustling market where you can find everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts.
- Visit the Museo del Sombrero, a museum dedicated to the art of hat-making, a traditional craft in the region.
Evening
- Savor a delicious dinner at Tiesto’s, a popular restaurant that offers a fusion of Ecuadorian and international cuisine.
- Enjoy a drink and live music at La Bandida, a cozy bar with a laid-back atmosphere.
- Take a walk through the Parque de la Luz, a beautiful park with a stunning light display at night.
Day 3
Morning
- Start your day with a flavorful breakfast at Raymipampa Café, a cozy café with a lovely outdoor seating area.
- Take a guided tour of the Casa de la Cultura Ecuatoriana, which houses a variety of art and cultural exhibits.
- Visit the Museo de la Medicina, which showcases the history of medicine and healthcare in Ecuador.
Midday
- Enjoy a delicious lunch at El Maiz, a restaurant that specializes in traditional Ecuadorian cuisine.
- Discover the Museo de la Identidad Cañari, which celebrates the culture and traditions of the Cañari people.
Afternoon
- Explore the Parque Nacional Cajas, a stunning natural park with hiking trails and breathtaking views.
- Visit the Museo Remigio Crespo Toral, which displays the works of famous Ecuadorian artist Remigio Crespo Toral.
Evening
- Savor a delicious dinner at Los Tiestos, a cozy restaurant that serves a variety of international dishes.
- Enjoy a drink and live music at La Mesa Fria, a trendy bar with a unique atmosphere.
- Take a stroll through the Parque Calderon, a beautiful park in the heart of the city.
Day 4
Morning
- Start your day with a tasty breakfast at La Central, a trendy café with a variety of options.
- Visit the Museo de Arte Moderno, which showcases contemporary art from Ecuador and around the world.
- Discover the Iglesia de San Francisco, a beautiful church with stunning architecture and artwork.
Midday
- Enjoy a delicious lunch at La Cigale, a French-inspired restaurant with a charming outdoor seating area.
- Explore the Museo de la Ciudad, which tells the story of Cuenca’s history and development.
Afternoon
- Take a scenic walk along the Parque Lineal Yanuncay, a beautiful park with a river and walking trails.
- Visit the Museo de las Conceptas, which displays the history and traditions of the Conceptas nuns.
Evening
- Savor a delicious dinner at El Mercado del Rio, a food market with a variety of stalls and options.
- Enjoy a drink and live music at La Fábrica, a trendy bar with a unique industrial atmosphere.
- Take a walk through the Parque de la Cruz, a beautiful park with a stunning view of the city.
Day 5
Morning
- Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Macondo Café, a cozy café with a variety of options.
- Visit the Museo de las Culturas, which showcases the diversity and richness of Ecuador’s cultural heritage.
- Take a walk through the Parque de la Libertad, a beautiful park with a variety of sculptures and artwork.
Midday
- Enjoy a delicious lunch at La Viña del Rey, a restaurant that specializes in traditional Ecuadorian cuisine.
- Explore the Museo de Arte Abstracto, which displays a unique collection of abstract art.
Afternoon
- Take a scenic drive to the El Cajas National Park, a stunning natural park with hiking trails and breathtaking views.
- Visit the Museo de la Música, which celebrates the history and diversity of music in Ecuador.
Evening
- Savor a delicious dinner at La Compañia de Jesus, a stunning church with a beautiful interior and rich history.
- Enjoy a drink and live music at La Fiera, a trendy bar with a lively atmosphere.
- Take a walk through the Parque de la Cruz del Vado, a beautiful park with a stunning view of the city at night.
Guide for 1 Week
Day 1
Morning
- Start your day with a traditional breakfast of Hornado, a roasted pork dish, at Mercado 10 de Agosto.
- Visit the beautiful Catedral de la Inmaculada Concepción and admire its stunning architecture.
- Explore the Plaza de las Flores, a vibrant market selling beautiful flowers of all colors.
Midday
- Stop by El Mercado de San Francisco for lunch, where you can try some delicious ceviche.
- Visit Museo de Arte Moderno and discover some of the most impressive contemporary artworks.
Afternoon
- Take a stroll along the beautiful Río Tomebamba and enjoy the view.
- Visit the Mercado de Artesanías, a market selling beautiful handmade crafts.
Evening
- Enjoy a delicious dinner at Mercado 9 de Octubre, where you can find a variety of local dishes.
- Sip on some refreshing cocktails at Barlovento.
- Catch a live music performance at La Casa del Sombrero.
Day 2
Morning
- Start your day by visiting the Museo de las Culturas Aborígenes and learn about the indigenous cultures of Ecuador.
- Visit the Museo de la Medicina and learn about the history of medicine in Cuenca.
- Take a walk through the beautiful Parque de la Madre.
Midday
- Have lunch at Tierra Kitchen and Bar, which offers a modern twist on traditional Ecuadorian cuisine.
- Visit the Museo del Sombrero and learn about the art of hat-making.
Afternoon
- Visit the Museo del Banco Central and learn about the history of Ecuador’s economy.
- Explore the Museo de Arte Abstracto and admire the stunning abstract artworks.
Evening
- Enjoy some delicious seafood at El Mercado.
- Sip on some craft beers at Cervecería Artesanal Maiz.
- Catch a movie at Cine Ocho y Medio.
Day 3
Morning
- Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Café Austria, a cozy café serving Austrian-style pastries.
- Visit the Museo de las Conceptas, a museum housed in a beautiful colonial convent.
- Explore the Barranco, a beautiful historic district with stunning views of the city.
Midday
- Have lunch at El Mercado de la Merced, which offers a variety of traditional dishes.
- Visit the Iglesia de San Blas, a beautiful colonial church with stunning artwork.
Afternoon
- Explore the Museo de la Ciudad and learn about the history of Cuenca.
- Visit the Mercado de la Placita, a local market selling fresh produce and handmade crafts.
Evening
- Enjoy a delicious dinner at Restaurante Raymipampa, which offers a variety of traditional Ecuadorian dishes.
- Sip on some delicious cocktails at La Compañía de Jesús.
- Catch a live music performance at Mambo Café.
Day 4
Morning
- Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Café San Sebas, a cozy café with a beautiful outdoor seating area.
- Visit the Museo de las Culturas Populares and learn about the popular culture of Ecuador.
- Explore the Turi Mirador, a beautiful viewpoint with stunning views of the city.
Midday
- Have lunch at El Mercado de San Roque, which offers a variety of traditional dishes.
- Visit the Iglesia de Todos los Santos, a beautiful colonial church with stunning artwork.
Afternoon
- Explore the Museo de la Casa de la Cultura and learn about the history of Ecuadorian art and culture.
- Visit the Museo de la Música and learn about the history of music in Ecuador.
Evening
- Enjoy a delicious dinner at Restaurante Tiestos, which offers a variety of traditional dishes with a modern twist.
- Sip on some delicious cocktails at La Guarida.
- Catch a live music performance at Café Eucalyptus.
Day 5
Morning
- Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Cafetería San Blas, a cozy café serving traditional Ecuadorian breakfast dishes.
- Visit the Museo del Monasterio de las Conceptas, a museum housed in a beautiful colonial convent.
- Explore the Plaza de San Francisco, a beautiful square with stunning colonial architecture.
Midday
- Have lunch at El Mercado de San Francisco, which offers a variety of traditional dishes.
- Visit the Museo de las Culturas and learn about the different cultures of Ecuador.
Afternoon
- Explore the Parque Nacional Cajas, a beautiful national park with stunning landscapes.
- Visit the Museo de la Inquisición and learn about the history of the Spanish Inquisition in Ecuador.
Evening
- Enjoy a delicious dinner at Restaurante Los Tiestos, which offers a variety of traditional dishes with a modern twist.
- Sip on some delicious cocktails at Café Austria.
- Catch a live music performance at La Esquina de las Artes.
Day 6
Morning
- Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Café del Museo, a cozy café located inside the Museo de Arte Moderno.
- Visit the Museo de la Universidad de Cuenca and learn about the history of the university.
- Explore the Barrio de San Sebastián, a beautiful historic district with stunning colonial architecture.
Midday
- Have lunch at El Mercado San Francisco, which offers a variety of traditional dishes.
- Visit the Museo de la Casa de los Tratados and learn about the history of the Treaty of Zaragoza.
Afternoon
- Explore the Museo del Carmen de la Asunción, a museum housed in a beautiful colonial convent.
- Visit the Museo de la Casa de la Cultura Ecuatoriana and learn about the history of Ecuadorian culture.
Evening
- Enjoy a delicious dinner at Restaurante La Viña, which offers a variety of traditional dishes with a modern twist.
- Sip on some delicious cocktails at El Mercado San Francisco.
- Catch a live music performance at La Cigale.
Day 7
Morning
- Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Café del Museo de Arte Contemporáneo, a cozy café located inside the Museo de Arte Contemporáneo.
- Visit the Museo de Arte Religioso and learn about the history of religious art in Ecuador.
- Explore the Plaza de San Sebastián, a beautiful square with stunning colonial architecture.
Midday
- Have lunch at El Mercado de San Francisco, which offers a variety of traditional dishes.
- Visit the Museo de la Ciudadela Tomebamba and learn about the history of the ancient Tomebamba civilization.
Afternoon
- Explore the Parque de la Luz, a beautiful park with stunning light displays.
- Visit the Museo de la Escuela Central and learn about the history of education in Ecuador.
Evening
- Enjoy a delicious dinner at Restaurante Trattoria Novecento, which offers a variety of Italian dishes with a modern twist.
- Sip on some delicious cocktails at El Barranco.
- Catch a live music performance at Café Eucalyptus.
Where to Stay
Coming soon for Cuenca!
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Best Season
Coming soon for Cuenca!