Boutique Hotel Plaza Sucre

Boutique Hotel Plaza Sucre is a small, characterful hotel in Quito's Historic Centre, a UNESCO World Heritage area, and it is also close to the city's business and financial district. A local guide lists 25 rooms, including doubles, triples and suites, with space for up to 70 guests. The Panecillo bar-restaurant serves national and international dishes and cocktails, with views toward the Panecillo hill and Santo Domingo church, while a business centre and reading room in Patio Tarqui and free 24-hour WiFi round out the facilities. Breakfast and taxes are listed as included in the price. The hotel presents itself as a boutique stay for guests who want a memorable experience in a historic setting rather than a standard chain.

Location and getting around: the hotel puts you inside the colonial centre, so the plazas, churches and the lively streets around Plaza Santo Domingo are a short walk away. The hills and cobbles mean you will use taxis for the TelefériQo, Mitad del Mundo and the airport, and the front desk can help arrange them. Because it also sits near the business district, you get easy access to cafes and services.

Rooms and atmosphere: expect a boutique feel, with character details in a heritage building and a mix of room sizes from doubles to suites. Rooms with views toward the Panecillo or the churches are the ones to request, and the bar-restaurant makes a convenient place for dinner at the end of a long day at altitude.

Who it suits and what to know: couples, small groups and travellers who like small hotels with personality will enjoy it, and the triples make it workable for a family of three. Confirm what is included at booking, including breakfast and taxes, and ask about quiet rooms if you are a light sleeper, as old town streets can be lively. As in any old building, some rooms are smaller than modern chain rooms, so check the room type before you book, and plan ahead if you have luggage because parking may be limited.