Cuenca is my favorite city in Ecuador by far. The city feels very European — gorgeous colonial architecture, beautiful public spaces along the river to walk along, the city is clean, traffic is orderly, and you can even drink the tap water!
This guide includes my tips on:
- Arriving in Cuenca (Transportation)
- Sightseeing & shopping
- Best restaurants (including an affordable tasting menu you absolutely CANT miss!)
- Places to stay
- Daytrips
- Weekend trips
Many North Americans retire in Cuenca for the comfortable quality of life. It’s a great place to recharge your batteries if you need a break from bussing and adventuring.
Don’t forget to pack a jacket and a beanie! Even if the daytime is beautiful with sunny blue skies, temperatures often drop down to the 50s at night.
Keywords: South America, Ecuador, Andes, Backpacking, Cuenca
50+ • Architecture • Art • Boutique • Budget • Foodie • History • Shopping • Design • Nature • People & Culture • Romantic • Slow Travel • Photography • Roadtrip • Wine • Coffee • Mountain • Relaxation
