How to get to Quito's Old Town
From Chimbacalle station to the colonial old town, a World Heritage site.
Ecuador’s national Tren Ecuador railway service has been suspended since 2020. Departures of the Tren Crucero and the Train of the Volcanoes from Chimbacalle are not running at present. The station can be visited as heritage; reach the old town by public transport or taxi. Always confirm availability before travelling.
Get off at Chimbacalle station (Tren Crucero). From there, from Chimbacalle, a taxi (~10 min) or the Ecovía/trolley bus to Plaza Grande.
About the place
Chimbacalle is Quito’s main station, a heritage “first treasure” opened in 1908 and the head of the historic Tren Crucero. It sits in the south of the city, about 3 km from the colonial core. Quito’s Old Town — the best preserved in the Americas and a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1978 — gathers the Plaza Grande, gilded Baroque churches and cobbled streets such as La Ronda. Even though the tourist train is not running, Chimbacalle station itself is worth a look before you head up to the centre.
Getting there from key points
| From | How to get there |
|---|---|
| Quito airport (Tababela) | Airport bus + taxi, or direct taxi ~50 min |
| Quitumbe terminal | Trolley bus northbound, ~25 min to the centre |
| La Mariscal (hotel district) | Taxi ~15 min or the Ecovía |
| Chimbacalle (station) | Taxi ~10 min or trolley bus to Plaza Grande |
Step by step
Head to Chimbacalle station (south Quito) to see the railway heritage; the district is well connected to the centre.
Take a taxi (~10 min) or the trolley bus/Ecovía northbound to the stop nearest Plaza Grande.
Explore the Old Town on foot: Plaza Grande, La Compañía, the Basílica del Voto Nacional and La Ronda are all a few minutes apart.
Useful information
Frequently asked questions
Does the train run to reach Quito Old Town?
Departures of the Tren Crucero and the Train of the Volcanoes from Chimbacalle are not running at present. The station can be visited as heritage; reach the old town by public transport or taxi. Always confirm availability before travelling.
Which is the nearest station?
The nearest station is Chimbacalle, on the Tren Crucero route.
How do I get there from Quito airport (Tababela)?
Airport bus + taxi, or direct taxi ~50 min.
How much does it cost?
Wandering the Old Town is free; some churches and museums charge a small entry ($1–$5). Visiting Chimbacalle station is free.
Where can I see more attractions near the railway?
See all attractions near Tren Ecuador.
Índice de contenidos
Updated: July 2026