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Castles & palaces

Palacio Arzobispal

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Palacio Arzobispal

Palacio Arzobispal

The Palacio Arzobispal is the former residence of the archbishop of Quito. Located on the city's main square, the building now functions as a commercial space featuring a gallery of shops and restaurants. Travelers visit this site to browse local goods, eat, or take a break from walking through the historic center.

Getting There

The palace is situated directly on the Plaza de la Independencia, which is the heart of Quito's city center. Because it is centrally located, it is accessible by foot from most nearby hotels and landmarks in the old town. Travel time from the immediate city center is negligible.

Suggested Visit Duration

Depending on whether you intend to dine or shop, allow between 30 minutes to 2 hours. A quick walk through the gallery takes very little time, while a meal or shopping session will require more.

When to Visit

The location can become crowded during midday and on weekends when locals and tourists gather in the main square. Visiting during the early morning or late afternoon may provide a quieter experience.

Nearby Attractions

Since the palace is located in a dense historic area, it can be combined with several nearby sites within walking distance:

  • Plaza de la Independencia (0km)
  • Monument to Independence (0.1km)
  • Alberto Mena Caamaño Museum (0.1km)
  • Iglesia de El Sagrario (0.1km)

Updated September 8, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors

Tickets & tours

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Stays near Palacio Arzobispal

Sorted by distance, walkable ones first. Distances are straight-line.

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Good to visit alongside

Plaza de la Independencia

Parks & gardens

Plaza de la Independencia

This central square of Quito's old town holds a monument honoring the heroes of the 1809 independence movement. Surrounded by landmarks like the Presidential Palace and the cathedral, it's a good place to take in the city's history at once.

0.0 km away
Monument to Independence

Heritage & monuments

Monument to Independence

A tall monument in the central square of Quito's old town, commemorating the independence movement of 1809. With the presidential palace as its backdrop, it forms one of the city's iconic views.

0.1 km away
Alberto Mena Caamaño Museum

Museums & galleries

Alberto Mena Caamaño Museum

This museum sits in Quito's historic center, close to the Presidential Palace. Travel guidebooks often rate it among the old town's top attractions, thanks to its wide range of exhibits.

0.1 km away
Iglesia de El Sagrario

Temples & religious sites

Iglesia de El Sagrario

This Renaissance-style Catholic church stands in Quito's old town, Ecuador. Though connected to the cathedral, it reads as a separate church and holds an important place in the history of Quito's religious art.

0.1 km away
Cathedral of Quito

Temples & religious sites

Cathedral of Quito

The cathedral stands southwest of Independence Square in Quito. It has served as a parish church since 1545 and is now the most prestigious Catholic cathedral in Ecuador.

0.2 km away
Church of the Society of Jesus

Temples & religious sites

Church of the Society of Jesus

A Catholic church in Quito's historic center, notable for its elaborate facade carved from solid volcanic stone. Its striking appearance has earned it the nickname "the Solomon's Temple of South America."

0.2 km away