Quito Transportation – Taxi, Train, Bus & Airport Tips

The world’s highest official capital, Quito is home to one of the world’s best preserved cultural centers. Getting here is easy as long as you understand your transport options.

Quito Transportation

Quito has many kinds of transportation options including inexpensive buses and trolleys. Get around the long, narrow streets easily and cheaply.

The Airport 

Mariscal Sucre is Quito’s airport. This modern airport is well lit and easy to get around. It’s about an hour outside of the city. Taxis are plentiful and will bring you to your hotel. If you have fewer bags consider getting a green bus. They’re less expensive but they have less room. If you’re getting here to get to the Galapagos Islands, look for the an easy transfer via local signs.

Buses 

One of the best ways to get around Quito and to other cities is via bus. Buses head to various destinations in the city. Bus travel is cheap and easy.  Local buses are blue. They don’t numbers but they have written signs indicating the destination. Local buses are cheap. There’s a tour bus that lets you hop on and hop off to see the city at your leisure. Many buses for parts of the other area leave from the Terminal Carcelen. Head here to find cheap transport to much of the rest of South America.

The Trolley 

Another common form of transport in Quito are the trolleys. Called the tole, the trolleys travel along raised platforms through much of the city. Bus stops are elevated. You pay as you enter the bus. Bear in mind the platforms are precisely aligned with the trolleys so watch your step.

Editor’s note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about transportation in Quito.