Hotel San Francisco de Quito

Hotel San Francisco de Quito is a comfortable mid-range base in the heart of the Historic Centre. It is at Sucre Oe 3-17 y Guayaquil, and Expedia lists Independence Square as about a two-minute walk and the cathedral about three. Five room types are listed: single, double, twin, triple and a suite, with the standard rooms at around 172 square feet. All rooms have free WiFi, a private bathroom with shower, free toiletries, a television, heating, a desk and daily housekeeping. Public spaces include a restaurant, a bar, a terrace and a rooftop terrace, a library, a 24-hour front desk, luggage storage and concierge help with tours and tickets. Free breakfast with local cuisine is served in the restaurant. There is no parking, which is typical for the old town.

Location and getting around: you can walk to Plaza Grande, La Compañía, La Ronda and the main churches in minutes, which saves taxi fares and makes early starts easy. For the TelefériQo, Mitad del Mundo or the airport, you will need a taxi or a booked transfer, and the concierge can help. Streets are cobbled and steep in places, so pack comfortable shoes and take it slowly at altitude.

Rooms and atmosphere: rooms are simple and functional, with heating, which is welcome on chilly Quito nights. The rooftop terrace is a pleasant place for a drink at the end of the day, and the library offers a quiet corner. Expect a traditional colonial-building feel, which can mean smaller windows and some street noise on busy nights.

Who it suits and what to know: first-time visitors, couples and solo travellers who want a central, reasonably priced base with breakfast will be happy. Families can use the triple rooms. If you arrive by car, plan for paid street or garage parking nearby. Ask for an interior or upper-floor room if you are sensitive to noise, and confirm breakfast hours before an early tour pickup.