History & Highlights

Quito Free Shopping Tour

Markets, artisan workshops and the crafts that define Ecuador

4.5 (20) · Bookable via Civitatis

This tour trades churches for markets, following your guide through the stalls and workshops of downtown Quito where Ecuador's craft traditions are still made and sold: hand-woven textiles from Andean wool, leather goods, silver filigree jewelry and the woven straw hats that made Montecristi and Ecuador famous around the world — even though history mislabeled them 'Panama hats.'

Along the way you'll hear how each craft ties back to a region and a community, from the indigenous markets of the highlands to the workshops tucked into the Old Town's side streets, and pick up tips on what's worth bargaining for and what a fair local price actually looks like.

Tour highlights

Traditional artisan markets
Andean wool textiles
Ecuadorian straw hat weaving
Silver filigree jewelry
Local bargaining tips

Meeting point

Parque García Moreno

Google Maps OpenStreetMap

This tour is free — there's no charge to join. At the end, tip your guide whatever you feel the experience was worth. 100% of tips go directly to them.

Frequently asked questions

Is the Quito Free Shopping Tour really free?

Yes — there is no ticket and no upfront cost. You reserve a free spot, join the tour, and at the end tip your guide whatever you feel it was worth. Most travelers tip the equivalent of €10–20 per person, but the amount is entirely up to you.

Where does the Quito Free Shopping Tour start?

The tour meets at Parque García Moreno (Parque García Moreno). Look for the guide with the FreeTour sign; the exact meeting point is confirmed in your booking.

How long is the tour, and what languages is it in?

It lasts around 3h and is guided in Spanish, English. Groups are capped at about 6 people so the experience stays personal. Comfortable walking shoes recommended.