El Panecillo

The small, ever-present hill to the south of the old town is called El Panecillo and is a major Quito landmark.

It is topped by a huge statue of La Virgen de Quito (Virgin of Quito), with a crown of stars, eagle's wings and a chained dragon atop the world.

From the summit, there are marvelous views of the whole city stretching out below, as well as of the surrounding volcanoes. The best time for volcano views (particularly in the rainy season) is early morning, before the clouds roll in. Definitely don't climb the stairs at the end of Calle García Moreno on the way to the statue - they're unsafe due to muggings. A taxi from the old town costs about around US$4, and you can hail one at the top for the trip back to town.