Day 1 - Colonial Quito Exploration: Start at Plaza Grande visiting Cathedral and Government Palace. Explore adjacent streets and churches (San Francisco, La Compañía). Walk Calle García Moreno stopping at museums. Climb El Panecillo for sunset views. Evening dinner in historic center.
Day 2 - Museums and Art: Visit Museo del Banco Central (pre-Columbian gold and modern art). Explore Casa del Alabado for ancient artifacts. Afternoon in Cumbayá neighborhood visiting galleries and cafes. Dinner at upscale restaurant.
Day 3 - Nature and Views: Morning hike in Parque Metropolitano cloud forest trails. Afternoon botanical garden or Parque Sucre relaxation. Visit Panecillo again for different light and clearer peak views. Early dinner and rest for next activities.
Day 4 - Equator and Indigenous Culture: Day trip to Middle of the World (Mitad del Mundo) monument. Visit Intiñan Museum. Afternoon visit indigenous market or artisan cooperative. Return to Quito for evening.
Day 5 - Adventure and Culture: Optional: Cotopaxi National Park day trip for dramatic volcano scenery and hiking. Or choose Baños hot springs and waterfall adventures. Or Otavalo market and highland communities. Return to Quito evening.