1. San Francisco Station: A Portal to the 16th Century

Among the system’s various stops, the San Francisco Station is undeniably the most iconic. Engineered to respect the integrity of the historic environment, this station serves as much more than a transportation hub; it is a gateway to the past.

• Direct Access: Upon exiting the station, visitors emerge directly into the mystical San Francisco Plaza, a location that has served as a cultural meeting point for nearly five centuries.

• Rapid Connectivity: The Metro connects the modern northern districts and the residential south to the historic heart in less than 20 minutes.

• Bilingual Assistance: To support international guests, the station offers high safety standards and bilingual staff, ensuring a smooth transition from the underground to the colonial surface.

2. Digital Logistics for the Modern Explorer

In 2026, navigating Quito’s transit system is a digital-first experience designed for convenience.

• Mobile Payments: Travelers are encouraged to use the city’s mobile application linked to their digital account. This allows for instant access via QR codes, bypassing physical ticket lines.

• Reliable Scheduling: The high frequency of trains allows for precise itinerary planning, enabling visitors to schedule their day with confidence.

• Wellness Environment: Every station is designed for a sense of peace and safety, allowing the traveler to maintain a calm, explorative mindset throughout their journey.

3. From the Platform to the Table: A Sensory Transition

The true magic of the Metro journey culminates upon reaching the surface. Emerging from a state-of-the-art technological infrastructure to face the majesty of the San Francisco Church is one of the most powerful cultural experiences Quito offers.

Just a few steps from the station exit, at Benalcázar N2-76, the logistical need for transport transforms into a quest for flavor. At this destination, visitors are invited to leave the city’s modern pace behind and inhabit a refuge of tradition.

4. Scenic Gastronomy: The Final Destination

The underground journey finds its ultimate reward in a concept known as Scenic Gastronomy. Here, traditional Ecuadorian cuisine is not just a meal, but an immersive ritual where every dish functions as an asset of living culture.

From an intimate balcony directly facing the plaza, guests can enjoy a menu rooted in Kilometer Zero ingredients, ensuring both freshness and a direct connection to local producers.

A Menu of Authentic Identity

• Hornado Cantuña: A slow-cooked heritage pork dish that honors the local legend of the plaza’s construction.

• Traditional Llapingacho: Savory potato patties that serve as a cornerstone of Andean culinary identity.

• Coastal Freshness: The menu extends to the Pacific with signature Ceviches, seasonal catch, and the distinct Pulpo al Joly.

• Premium Coffee Culture: No afternoon in the center is complete without a high-altitude Ecuadorian coffee, served as a ritual of pause and respect.

5. The Stage of Living Culture

The experience on this historic balcony is elevated by a commitment to the arts.

• Danza Saruymanda: The space becomes a stage for the traditional dances of the renowned Danza Saruymanda group, whose performances bring the history of the Andean people to life.

• Recognized Local Artists: The evening is further enriched by local musicians whose melodies resonate with the pride and memory of the city.