Why Cuenca Stood Out as My Favorite City in Ecuador: Architecture, Culture, and Insider Tips
I hadn't fallen in love with many places in Ecuador beyond the Galápagos Islands, but Cuenca raised my expectations. This Andean university town is beloved by many, offering a welcome escape from the coastal heat and mosquitoes.
After an eight-hour bus journey from Montañita, with a quick transfer in Guayaquil, I arrived feeling the city's positive energy immediately.
Walking to my hostel instead of taking a taxi refreshed me after the long trip. Cuenca's architecture captivated me right away—a harmonious blend of styles from various eras.
Unlike the more mundane designs in Quito or Guayaquil, Cuenca's visual appeal earned it UNESCO World Heritage status.
Spanish-colonial buildings, preserved Renaissance structures, a charming central plaza, and the stunning Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception enchanted me—and UNESCO, recognizing over 1,000 historic buildings.
Preservation efforts make strolling the streets a delight, guessing each building's era.
Cuenca boasts numerous museums: Modern Art Museum, Central Bank Museum, Prohibido Centro Cultural, Medicine Museum, Museum of Aboriginal Culture, a religious museum in the Convent of the Immaculate Conception, and the Inter-American Traditional Art Center.
Though I planned to visit, especially the Modern Art Museum, I procrastinated. Instead, I leisurely explored parks, churches, murals, markets, and coffee shops.
Climbing the New Cathedral's bell tower for panoramic Andes views was on my list, but heavy rain on my final days prevented it.
Despite missing some sights, I cherished my relaxed stay.
Morning runs along the river to Parque Paraíso, Cuenca's largest green space, became routine.
I'd then enjoy breakfast at local cafes, from budget desayunos under $3 to Goza's $7 shakshuka splurge.
Cuenca shone for food—vegetarian-friendly with Indian, Thai, Italian, and dedicated veggie spots, unlike elsewhere in Ecuador.
I savored cafe time, people-watching in Parque Calderón, and chatting with locals, mimicking expat life. Popular with expats, Cuenca didn't fully pull me to relocate, but it was memorable before heading to Baños.
Practical Information for Visiting Cuenca, Ecuador
Where to Stay in Cuenca
Affordable, quality accommodations abound, from hostels to budget hotels.
Top Backpacker Hostels:
- Go Hostel (dorms from $7, doubles from $22)
- Hostel América Inn (dorms from $6, singles from $12, doubles from $20)
- Hostal Dreamcatcher (dorms from $6, doubles from $17)
- Hostel Bella Vista (twins from $12, triples from $24, studios from $15)
Top Guesthouses:
- Posada Gran Colombia (singles from $13, doubles from $23)
- Hostal Hogar Cuencano (doubles from $22)
- Hotel Casa San Rafael (singles from $22, doubles from $26)
- Nass B&B (doubles from $29)
- Hostal Latina (singles from $12, doubles from $24)
- Villa San Marcos (singles from $16, doubles from $28)
Top Budget Hotels:
- Siena Hotel (singles from $27, doubles from $40)
- Hotel Presidente (doubles $42)
- Del Parque Hotel & Suites (singles from $38, doubles from $65)
Where to Eat & Drink in Cuenca
Highlights from my favorites:
- Fabiano's (best pizza)
- Pappardelle (Italian)
- Melatte Coffee (top coffee shop)
- Goza Espresso (coffee & cake)
- Cafe Austria (coffee, cake, Austrian dishes)
- Cafe de Alicia (coffee & cake)
- The Indian Restaurant / Taj Mahal (Indian)
- Thai Connection
- Quinua Vegetarian
- Govinda's Vegetariano
- Tutto Freddo (pastries)
- Antares Brewery (craft beer)
- Becken House Cervezas Artisanales (artisan beer)
