population: 1.62 million

extension: 324.02 square kilometers

Museums

If you are in Quito and want to visit museums, I would suggest you visit the Museo Nacional del Ecuador, which is located in the heart of the historic district. It has a collection that showcases the history and culture of Ecuador, from pre-Columbian times to the present day.

If you're interested in visiting other museums in Quito, the Casa del Alabado and the Museo de Arte Contemporáneo are two great options to consider as well. The former showcases pre-Columbian art, while the latter features contemporary art pieces.

Additionally, if you're looking for similar places to visit, you may want to check out the Centro Cultural Metropolitano and the Museo Interactivo de Ciencias, both of which offer unique and informative exhibits.

Food

Some of the most recommended, popular, and typical dishes to eat according to local people in Quito, Ecuador are:

1. Hornado: a dish of roasted pork served with potatoes, corn, and avocado.

2. Locro: a thick soup made with potatoes, cheese, avocado, and corn.

3. Cuy: roasted or fried guinea pig, often served with potatoes and corn.

4. Fanesca: a traditional soup made with grains, beans, and vegetables, served during Easter week.

5. Seco de chivo: a stew made with goat meat, served with rice and beans.

6. Empanadas: pastry filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables, often served as a snack or appetizer.

7. Churrasco: grilled beef served with rice, salad, and French fries.

8. Llapingachos: stuffed potato cakes filled with cheese, served with sausage, avocado, and peanut sauce.

9. Encebollado: a fish soup made with onions, yucca, and cilantro, often eaten for breakfast.

10. Espumilla: a sweet treat made from whipped egg whites, sugar, and fruit pulp, often sold by street vendors.

Activities

Sure! Here are some fun activities that locals in Quito enjoy:

1. Exploring the old town: Take a walk around Quito's historic center and enjoy the architecture, churches, plazas, and street performers.

2. Visiting the TelefériQo: Take a cable car ride up to the top of Pichincha Volcano for stunning views of the city and surrounding mountains.

3. Enjoying traditional food: Sample Ecuadorian cuisine at local markets like Mercado Central or try out traditional dishes such as ceviche, empanadas, and locro de papas.

4. Dancing salsa: Join a salsa class or go out dancing at one of Quito's many salsa clubs.

5. Hiking in the surrounding hills: Explore the nearby hillsides and hike up to viewpoints like El Panecillo or La Cruz Loma.

6. Watching a soccer match: If you're a sports fan, head to Estadio Olímpico Atahualpa to catch a soccer game and experience the passion of Ecuadorian fans.

7. Enjoying nightlife: Quito has a vibrant nightlife scene with many bars and clubs where you can dance, listen to music, and sample local drinks.