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Cuenca, a small city in southern Ecuador, is slowly gaining popularity among tourists. Not many would have heard of Cuenca, but those who have heard of and visited Cuenca fell in love with it. That includes me, by the way. I loved Cuenca so much that I’m considering retiring here eventually. There are lots of great things to do in Cuenca, Ecuador.
Cuenca is laid back, safe, and a melting pot of people from many countries, including my native Venezuela. It is not an expensive place to be. Most of the things are very cheap, including food and lodging.
One thing visitors to Cuenca love is its old town. A part of Cuenca, primarily including the old town and Inca ruins, has been declared a protected heritage area by UNESCO. Three to four days are sufficient to explore, enjoy and feel the vibe of Cuenca. Let me list out the top attractions and must-dos on your Cuenca trip.
Best Things to do in Cuenca, Ecuador
Plaza de las Flores- Cuenca Flower Market
National Geographic has listed the Plaza de la Flores as one of the best flower markets in the world. Ecuador is the second largest exporter of cut flowers in the world. Ecuadorian roses these days are much in demand among flower shops everywhere. The cluster of colorful stalls with different varieties of flowers, bouquets, and potted plants is a sight to behold. The market is small but easy to locate.
Pumapungo Museo- Pumapungo Museum
An ethnographic and art museum, Pumapungo Museo can keep one engaged for hours. One of the bigger museums of Cuenca, Pumapungo Museo, is good for all age groups. There are three floors in total, each with some interesting exhibits, mostly art, and religious artifacts. Their coin section is one of the best. The museum promotes Ecuadorian culture, once in a while hosting specialized exhibitions.
Pumapungo has the largest Inca ruins in the area. At the bottom of the museum, you can see the entrance to a tunnel over 30 meters long that served as a mausoleum and symbolized the underground world and mysterious rituals of the Incas. At the rear of the main museum building are beautiful lush green gardens and a lake where you can see some Ecuadorian flora, fauna, and native birds.
Santuario Mariano del Carmen de la Asuncion
Just a block from Parque Calderon, it is right in front of the church Santuario Mariano del Carmen de la Asunción. The church also is pretty fascinating. Established in 1682, this church is famously known as where nuns craft and sell wine and bread to earn a living.
You’ll find a small window facing the flower market where you can purchase a glass of Aqua de Pitimas. This pink drink is made from flowers and herbs and serves as an elixir to cure almost everything. Honestly, it doesn’t taste great, but it’s worth trying!
La Catedral de la Inmaculada Concepción de Cuenca- New Cathedral
Located right in the center of Cuenca, just next to the iconic Parque Calderon, Catedral de la Inmaculada Concepción de Cuenca is a sight to behold. Built in the mid-1500s, the cathedral was renovated, after which it got the name of New Cathedral. The first thing you notice about the church is its three blue domes. With a height of 60 meters, these domes are visible from quite far away. You can climb to an observation deck for beautiful views of the city. The interiors are magnificent, done up with gold leaves.
It is a huge church with a mind-boggling capacity of up to 10,000 people. Underneath the New Cathedral is a vault where many famous Cuenca residents were buried. The church offers tours where a guide takes you around the church and explains to you in full detail about the history and the present-day church. The tour is in Spanish as well as English.
Centro Interamericano de Artes Populares- Inter-American Center for Crafts and Popular Arts
At Centro Interamericano de Artes Populares, in short CIDAP, you will come across pottery, earthenware, and textiles, among many different products. Set in a beautiful Cuenca mansion, it certainly makes for a worthwhile stop by the riverside. The center works actively to support local art and talent. Various exhibitions are hosted here to display and as sell crafts of the local craftsmen. Check out their Facebook page to stay updated on the events CIDAP hosts. Entry is free. They also have a cute little gift shop which is a must-visit before exiting.
Plaza Abdon Calderon- Abdon Calderon Park
Extremely popular, your visit to Cuenca is incomplete if you don’t drop by Plaza Abdon Calderon. The most popular plaza of Cuenca is in the center of the old town. The plaza is extremely well-landscaped. The tall palm trees are a perfect cover from the Cuenca sun. You will spot many tourists as well as locals. Just sit and enjoy the beautiful views of the colonial architecture around you.
Parque San Sebastian- San Sebastian Park
Another square, Parque San Sebastian, is a bit plainer but equally enjoyable. The focal point of this square is a fountain right in the middle. There are eateries and shops all around. This is an excellent place to relax.
Panama Hat Museum and Museo del Sombrero de Paja Toquilla
Google ‘Panama hats’, and that will make you want to own one. Made of straw, Panama hats are stylish, sturdy, and useful. Panama hats are originally from Ecuador and not from Panama. Ecuadorians crafted these hats to protect themselves from the harsh Ecuadorian sun and heat.
The story goes that Homero Ortego, an Ecuadorian, started selling these hats to the merchants going to Panama. Due to the hats’ sturdy nature and utility in hot weather conditions, they became very popular among the Panama Canal construction workers. Its demand rose tremendously, giving it its name: Panama Hats. The rest, as they say, is history. Ecuadorians are proud of their Panama hats. In Cuenca, there are two museums dedicated to it.
The first museum is the Panama Hat Museum. Also called the Magic Hat Museum, it is owned by the Homero Ortega company itself. The museum is very small, spread over just three rooms. One learns about the history, the manufacturing process, and some interesting facts about Panama Hats. They sell hats too. The label Homero Ortega is a well-known international brand. The final finishing is done in Italy and is fantastic. They have a handbag range too which you might want to check out.
Much bigger and more educational is Museo del Sombrero de Paja Toquilla. They give live demonstrations of the process of how a hat is crafted. If you want to buy a hat, they have a good collection that includes quirky as well classic designs. Just along the river, in old town, its rooftop cafeteria offers good views and is a great place to chill.
Mirador de Turi- Turi View Point
Save half a day for Mirador de Turi, one of the top attractions in Cuenca. Primarily a viewpoint, you will see an incredible view of Cuenca rooftops with the mighty Andes in the background. You can reach Mirador de Turi by cab, bus, or just climb on foot. There are over 492 steps, be prepared for that from the first step; there is no going back after that! Once you reach the top, there are restaurants. Close to it is an old church. There are swings and zip lines near the place for thrills.
Museo de las Culturas Aborígenes- Museum of Aboriginal Culture
A different kind of museum, Museo de las Culturas Aborígenes is a gem of a place to visit. On display is a remarkable collection of historical artifacts. Though small, the display will enlighten you about the indigenous Cañari tribe and the Inca civilization. It is worth appreciating that all the artifacts, which include statues, pottery, and earthenware are owned by a single person, Mr. Juan Cordero Iñiguez. They also have a small gift shop. It is located on Calle Larga, one of the prime streets in Cuenca.
Amaru Bioparque Cuenca Zoologico- Amaru Zoo
A non-profit, Amaru Bioparque Cuenca Zoologico is home to many rescued animals who were being illegally trafficked or made to perform in circuses, many of which you might not have seen a picture of. It is a very quiet and relaxing attraction meant for all age groups. Definitely pick something from their souvenir shop. They run organized tours with a friendly staff who know English. Visit to support this non-profit.
Parque El Paraiso- Paradise Park
Just next to Mirador de Turi, Parque El Paraiso is the biggest park in Cuenca and one of the best picnic spots. The beautifully landscaped park with walking and biking trails is very well maintained. There are lakes and ponds within the park. The park also has a separate area for kids, complete with playground equipment. You can also enjoy boating or watch the ducks paddling lazily. Food vendors sell food and drinks if you want to grab a quick snack.
Best Activities in Cuenca
Though small, Cuenca has different types of activities and experiences that one should think of indulging in.
Walk beside river banks of Cuenca.
There are four rivers in Cuenca. Walking, biking, and picnicking on the riverfront are popular activities among tourists and the locals alike. You can also rent a bike. The main river of Cuenca is the Tomebamba River which is a preferred riverfront for tourists and locals to enjoy a lazy day.
Try out Ecuadorian dishes.
Even if you are not a foodie or big on experimenting with your food, try some Ecuadorian cuisine. Ecuadorian ceviche, guinea pig, and hornado (fried pig) are must-try foods. If you are unable to decide on a dish, join a food tour (there are plenty available); your local host will help you in choosing just the right dish for you.
Get a Limpia.
How can you not get a limpia if you are in Cuenca? Not exclusive to Cuenca, limpia is a wellness treatment and done in most of Ecuador’s cities. It is believed that after you get a limpia done, your body is spiritually cleansed. The treatment is performed by experienced elderly women. Rose petals, herbs, etc., are sprinkled over you while the lady chants lightly. Overall a calming and soothing experience for a person.
Try an authentic drugstore soda
While many of the city’s drugstores will make you soda water, try one at the oldest drugstore in Cuenca, Botica y Drogeria Central Cuenca, just off Parque Calderon. Signs on the counter let guests know which drugstores offer soda water. This fizzy drink is a great hangover cure, but it also helps with an upset tummy or altitude sickness.
Enjoy a coffee at the courthouse
This sounds strange, but the courthouse in Cuenca is one of the most beautiful buildings you’ll ever explore. Ecuador is known for its decadent coffee. And one of the best places to try that coffee is the coffee shop located at the courthouse. After all, who but lawyers enjoys being highly caffeinated all the time! (PS: I’m a lawyer by day!)
Getting to Cuenca
Cuenca is not easily reached – you must fly from Quito or Guayaquil. Even from other areas of Ecuador, getting to Cuenca frequently means going through Quito or Guayaquil first.
Travelers can also reach Cuenca by bus. Most cities in Ecuador have bus services that will lead visitors to Cuenca, including night buses. Unfortunately, there is no train to Cuenca.
Getting Around Cuenca
The historic center is easily walkable. Taxis are incredibly cheap and safe if you need to go somewhere further. Or rent a bike and enjoy the beautiful city.
Tranvia, the first electric tram system in Ecuador, is part of the public transportation system. There are 27 stations along 22 kilometers.
Where to Stay in Cuenca
Luxury: Itza Hotel Boutique Internacional is ideally located in the center, just a block away from Parque Calderon. Book a balcony room in this renovated historic building and enjoy five-star luxury service and accommodations.
Mid-Range: Del Parque Hotel & Suites is perfect for travelers who want a kitchenette. Many of the rooms have beautiful views of the domes of the Cathedral. This is where I stayed, and it was just a few steps from the Parque Calderon.
Budget: The city is a backpacker’s paradise, so hostel rooms are readily available, and a bed can be found for as little as $9 a night.
Of course, as a Marriott fan, there is always the option of staying at Four Points by Sheraton in Cuenca, but it is located on the outskirts of downtown, near the Mirador de Turi. If you do book here, use a Marriott Bonvoy card for extra benefits.
Foods to Try in Cuenca
More adventurous people will want to try Cuy Asado – grilled guinea pig. Keep in mind that restaurants offering cuy asado tend to need at least 24 hours’ notice. The cuy is served family style, meant to be shared among several people, and usually features a few side dishes.
The city also has a ton of street food vendors, and they’re all worth trying! You can’t go wrong with empanadas – which we found for $1 USD or so. Meat on skewers (carne en palitos) feature beef, sausage, or chicken. You’ll often find them on a grill next to grilled corn on the cob (choclo asado).
You’ll find stalls selling donut holes, called Huevitos Chilenos, 5 for about $1 USD. Or try espumillas, which looks like ice cream (it is placed in a cone) but isn’t cold.
So what do you think? Have I inspired you to give Cuenca, Ecuador, a chance?
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Happy travels,
Annick, The Common Traveler
Booking Code for Cuenca: 926345
Raised as a third culture kid living in South America and Europe, Annick caught the travel bug early. As an empty-nester, Annick enjoys sharing her tips for traveling for those with champagne taste and beer budgets.