La Mariscal neighborhood
A vibrant Quito neighborhood known for its cheerful atmosphere, beautiful architecture, and lively artisan markets. Perfect for exploring and enjoying...

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Lively atmosphere, fewer crowds
La Mariscal neighborhood
Best Time
Lively atmosphere, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant Quito neighborhood known for its cheerful atmosphere, beautiful architecture, and lively artisan markets. Perfect for exploring and enjoying local culture.
"A beautiful neighborhood, wonderful architecture, streets full of trees, very cheerful and fun!!!!"
🦙 Shop for Alpaca Goods
Find authentic alpaca sweaters, scarves, and more at the artisan markets. Great for gifts!
🚶♀️ Explore on Foot
La Mariscal is best explored by walking to appreciate its architecture and atmosphere. Wear comfy shoes!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Artisan Market Finds
La Mariscal
Discover unique Ecuadorian textiles, alpaca goods, and local crafts. A treasure trove for souvenirs!
Architectural Charm
Throughout La Mariscal
Wander through streets lined with beautiful, old-fashioned buildings and lush trees. A feast for the eyes.

Vibrant Nightlife
La Mariscal
Experience the lively bars, restaurants, and cultural venues that make this neighborhood a hub of activity.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Altitude Adjustment is Key
Navigating La Mariscal
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🦙 Shop for Alpaca Goods
Find authentic alpaca sweaters, scarves, and more at the artisan markets. Great for gifts!
🚶♀️ Explore on Foot
La Mariscal is best explored by walking to appreciate its architecture and atmosphere. Wear comfy shoes!
🌃 Be Street Smart
Stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Keep valuables secure.
🌅 Catch the Sunset
The sunsets in La Mariscal are often described as wonderful. Find a good vantage point!
Two nights in Quito
Tips
from all over the internet
🦙 Shop for Alpaca Goods
Find authentic alpaca sweaters, scarves, and more at the artisan markets. Great for gifts!
🚶♀️ Explore on Foot
La Mariscal is best explored by walking to appreciate its architecture and atmosphere. Wear comfy shoes!
🌃 Be Street Smart
Stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Keep valuables secure.
🌅 Catch the Sunset
The sunsets in La Mariscal are often described as wonderful. Find a good vantage point!
☕ Enjoy Local Cafes
Relax and soak in the neighborhood's vibe at one of its many charming cafes.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
La Mariscal is celebrated for its cheerful and fun atmosphere, beautiful architecture, and tree-lined streets, offering a relaxing and enjoyable experience. Visitors appreciate the friendly people and the vibrant energy, especially during evenings. While some find it a bit lonely due to fewer crowds, others enjoy the peacefulness and the wonderful sunsets.
"A beautiful neighborhood, wonderful architecture, streets full of trees, very lonely due to the pandemic"
Omar Vasquez
"Excellent area, friendly people, old-fashioned places, perfect for relaxation."
Luis J. Romero V.
"I have lived in this area for over thirty years and it is very cheerful and fun!!!!"
Rodrigo Vidal Cajas Carrión
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
La Mariscal is easily accessible by taxi or ride-sharing services from Quito's Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO). Within the city, local buses and taxis are common ways to reach the neighborhood. Many visitors find it convenient to stay in La Mariscal due to its central location and access to amenities.
La Mariscal is generally considered safe for tourists, especially during the day. However, like any urban area, it's advisable to be aware of your surroundings, avoid displaying expensive items, and stick to well-lit streets at night.
Walking is the best way to explore the charming streets of La Mariscal and discover its hidden gems. For longer distances within Quito, taxis and ride-sharing apps are readily available and affordable.
Yes, La Mariscal is a popular choice for tourists due to its vibrant atmosphere, numerous hotels, restaurants, and proximity to attractions. It offers a good balance of modern conveniences and local charm.
La Mariscal is located a short taxi or bus ride away from Quito's historic Old Town. The journey typically takes around 15-30 minutes, depending on traffic.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
La Mariscal is a public neighborhood, so there are no general entrance fees to walk around and explore its streets and parks. However, individual attractions within the neighborhood, such as museums or specific venues, may have their own admission costs.
The artisan markets in La Mariscal typically operate during daylight hours, often opening in the morning and closing in the late afternoon or early evening. Weekend mornings are particularly popular for market shopping.
For most restaurants in La Mariscal, booking is not strictly necessary, especially during off-peak hours. However, for popular establishments or during weekend evenings, making a reservation is recommended to secure a table.
Absolutely! Wandering through the tree-lined streets, admiring the architecture, enjoying the sunset, and browsing the artisan markets (without purchasing) are all free activities in La Mariscal.
The artisan markets in La Mariscal are the prime spots for souvenir shopping, offering a wide array of local crafts, textiles, and more. Haggling is sometimes possible, especially at the markets.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
La Mariscal features a charming mix of architectural styles, from elegant old-fashioned buildings with balconies to more modern structures. The tree-lined streets contribute to its picturesque appeal.
Capture the neighborhood's beauty by photographing its charming streets, colonial-inspired buildings, vibrant markets, and the stunning sunsets. Look for interesting architectural details and local life.
While you can certainly spend a day exploring La Mariscal, it's also a neighborhood that rewards longer stays. You can easily dedicate a full day to its markets, cafes, and leisurely strolls.
La Mariscal is known for being cheerful, fun, and lively, especially in the evenings. It's a place where you can relax, enjoy nature, and experience the local culture.
While not a large park, La Mariscal is characterized by its tree-lined streets, which provide a pleasant green ambiance throughout the neighborhood. You can find smaller plazas and open areas for relaxation.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
La Mariscal offers a diverse culinary scene, from traditional Ecuadorian dishes to international cuisine. You'll find everything from casual cafes to upscale restaurants.
Many restaurants in La Mariscal are increasingly offering vegetarian and vegan options. It's always a good idea to check menus or ask staff for specific recommendations.
Don't miss trying dishes like Llapingachos (potato patties), Seco de Chivo (goat stew), or Empanadas. Look for local eateries for authentic flavors.
La Mariscal has numerous cafes that serve excellent coffee. Many offer a cozy atmosphere perfect for a morning pick-me-up or an afternoon break.
Dining prices in La Mariscal can vary widely. You can find budget-friendly options at local eateries and markets, as well as more upscale dining experiences.
📸 📸 Photography
The 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – offer beautiful lighting for capturing the neighborhood's charm. Late afternoons are also great for sunset views.
Focus on the charming streets with their trees and architecture, the vibrant colors of the artisan markets, and any scenic viewpoints offering cityscapes or sunset vistas.
Generally, photography is permitted in public areas of La Mariscal. However, always be respectful when photographing people and ask for permission if you're focusing on individuals.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm equivalent) is great for capturing street scenes and architecture. A wide-angle lens can be useful for wider cityscapes. A smartphone camera is also perfectly adequate for most shots.
Drone usage is often restricted in urban areas due to privacy and safety regulations. It's best to check local drone laws and regulations before attempting to fly a drone in La Mariscal.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When exploring with children, prioritize safety and ensure they stay hydrated. Look for restaurants with kid-friendly menus, which are increasingly available. While La Mariscal is known for its nightlife, families might prefer to focus on daytime activities like exploring the markets or enjoying a relaxed meal.
💰 Budget Travelers
Utilize public transportation or walk whenever possible to save on taxi fares. Many of the neighborhood's charms, like its architecture and street life, are free to enjoy. Focus on experiencing the local culture and atmosphere rather than expensive attractions.
💖 Couples
Consider catching a beautiful sunset together from a scenic spot. The artisan markets offer opportunities to find unique gifts for each other. For a truly memorable experience, explore the neighborhood hand-in-hand, soaking in its cheerful and fun atmosphere.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding La Mariscal's Vibe
Beyond its nightlife, La Mariscal is also a hub for local crafts and shopping. The artisan markets are a must-visit, offering everything from intricate textiles to unique souvenirs. This makes it an excellent spot for travelers looking to immerse themselves in local culture and pick up authentic Ecuadorian goods. The presence of trees lining the streets adds a pleasant, green aesthetic, contributing to its overall appeal as a place for relaxation and exploration.
While it offers a vibrant experience, it's also important to be mindful of your surroundings, as with any urban environment. Staying aware and taking standard safety precautions will ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit to this energetic neighborhood. The unique character of La Mariscal makes it a memorable part of any Quito itinerary.
Navigating Altitude in Quito
To combat altitude effects, it's recommended to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, avoid alcohol and heavy meals on your first day, and take it easy. Gentle walks around La Mariscal are fine, but strenuous activities should be postponed. Some visitors find that chewing coca leaves or drinking coca tea can help alleviate symptoms, though this is a traditional remedy.
Choosing a hotel in La Mariscal can be advantageous as it's a relatively flat area compared to some parts of the Old Town, which might make initial acclimatization slightly easier. Listen to your body, and if symptoms persist or worsen, consult a medical professional.
Shopping for Ecuadorian Crafts
Beyond textiles, expect to see handmade jewelry, leather goods, wooden carvings, and traditional musical instruments. Many of these items are crafted by local artisans, offering a direct connection to the culture and economy of Ecuador. It's a great opportunity to support local communities and bring home unique pieces that tell a story.
When shopping at the markets, don't be afraid to engage with the vendors. They are often happy to share information about their craft and the origin of their products. While prices are generally reasonable, some lighthearted bargaining might be possible, especially if you're purchasing multiple items.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit