Things to do in Guayaquil
Discover the best attractions and experiences Guayaquil has to offer
Historic Monuments
Guayaquil’s waterfront and hillside quarters offer a window into its colonial and 19th-century past.
Cerro Santa Ana
Historic hill with colonial stairs, a restored lighthouse, and panoramic views of the Guayas River.
Las Peñas Historic District
Charming, brightly painted houses along a scenic staircase leading to the hilltop.
Malecón 2000
Revived riverfront promenade with parks, sculptures, and striking river views.
Museums
Explore Guayaquil’s culture and contemporary art scenes.
Museo Municipal de Guayaquil
Exhibits about the city’s history, people, and development.
MAC-G (Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Guayaquil)
Contemporary art museum with rotating Ecuadorian and international works.
Religious Monuments
Guayaquil’s churches and cathedrals showcase regional religious art and architecture.
Catedral Metropolitana de Guayaquil
Grand cathedral in the historic center with a solemn interior and city views.
Iglesia de La Merced
Historic church famed for its baroque-influenced facade and central location.
Iglesia de San Francisco
Old church near the riverfront, a quiet spot for reflection.
National & Theme Parks
Natural escapes near Guayaquil offer riverine and island landscapes.
Parque Histórico Guayaquil
Cultural park with replicas of historic sites and river views.
Isla Santay (Santay Island)
River island reserve with easy trails, birdlife, and bike paths.
Neighborhoods
Strolling through Guayaquil’s districts uncovers local life and architecture.
Las Peñas
Historic hillside neighborhood with artists’ cafés and colorful houses.
Urdesa
Vibrant modern neighborhood known for shops, cafés, and a lively street scene.
Centro Histórico
Core of old Guayaquil with plazas, churches, and colonial-era buildings.
Free Things to Do
You can enjoy Guayaquil’s sights and pace without paying entry fees.
Walk along Malecón 2000
Stroll the riverfront, watch the water and city life go by.
Iguana Park (Parque Seminario)
Meet the resident iguanas and enjoy the park atmosphere.
Cerro Santa Ana viewpoint (free access via stairs)
Hidden viewpoints and photo ops after a climb.
Gastronomy
Coastal Ecuadorian flavors shine with seafood-focused dishes.
Encebollado
Traditional fish soup served with cassava and lime.
Encocado de pescado
Fish stewed in coconut sauce, a coastal specialty.
Ceviche de camarón
Bright shrimp ceviche with lime, onions, and cilantro.
Nightlife
Evenings in Guayaquil buzz with riverfront bars, lively streets, and music.
Avenida 9 de Octubre (nightlife stretch)
Bars, cafes, and late-night bites along a bustling avenue.
Urdesa nightlife
Casual bars and eateries in a dynamic downtown district.
Malecón evenings
Riverside ambience with live music and sunset views.
Entertainment
Live performances and cultural showcases spice up the city.
Teatro Sánchez Aguilar
Major venue hosting concerts, theater, and performances.
Guayaquil cultural centers
Venues hosting rotating arts exhibitions and events.
Sports
Soccer culture runs deep with iconic stadiums to visit.
Estadio Modelo Alberto Spencer
Home to major league games and a hub of local sports energy.
Estadio Banco del Pacífico Capwell
Historic stadium hosting club matches and events.
Off the Track
Unusual, deeper-dive experiences beyond the obvious highlights.
Boat ride on the Guayas River
Gentle boat trip to see the city from the water.
Street art tour in Urdesa
Guided walk to discover colorful murals and local art.
Sunset from Cerro Santa Ana
Climb for city views and a peaceful evening glow.