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Cuenca, Azuay to Quito, Pichincha from $9: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Cuenca, Ecuador
to
Quito, Ecuador

How to Get from Cuenca to Quito: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$9 by busBest price
443 kmDistance
1h 35m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Cuenca to Quito with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
1h  35m
Estimated price
$82-188
Recommended
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
8h  31m
Estimated price
$9-40
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 443 km
Duration: 1h 35m

See more options

Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
6h  34m
Estimated price
$13-23
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
5h  8m
Estimated price
$17-32
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
10h  36m
Estimated price
$20-820
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
6h  23m
Estimated price
$821-40
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Cuenca to Quito

The journey from Cuenca to Quito showcases a striking transition from Cuenca's charming historical architecture and serene ambiance to Quito's vibrant urban energy and rich cultural tapestry.

Best Neighbourhoods in Quito

Quito boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct experiences for visitors.

La Mariscal
• Lively nightlife and numerous restaurants.
• Popular among backpackers and tourists.
Old Town (Centro Histórico)
• Stunning colonial architecture and historic sites.
• UNESCO World Heritage site with rich culture.
Guápulo
• Picturesque hills offering great views of the city.
• Charming cafes and art galleries abound.

Best Times To Visit Quito's Attractions

Timing your visits to Quito's attractions can enhance your experience significantly.

TelefériQo
Visit early in the morning for fewer crowds and stunning views.
La Basilica del Voto Nacional
Weekday mornings offer a quieter experience to explore this landmark.
El Panecillo
Go during sunset for breathtaking views and fewer visitors.

Quito Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Quito experiences a mild climate with temperatures averaging between 50°F and 70°F year-round, making it a welcoming destination any time. The dry months from June to September generally provide the best conditions for outdoor activities, allowing you to fully enjoy the city's attractions without weather interruptions.

Dining Recommendation in Quito

In Quito, savor the traditional dish of 'locro de papa,' a creamy potato soup enriched with cheese and avocado, which offers a hearty contrast to Cuenca's lighter fare. The bustling atmosphere of the local markets and the use of fresh, vibrant ingredients in Quito's cuisine create an immersive dining experience that highlights the capital's rich culinary heritage.

Cuenca - Quito operators

Explore transport companies operating between Cuenca and Quito, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Plane Show flights
Website
latam.com

Plane from Cuenca Airport to Quito Airport

Average Duration
51m
Estimated price
$825-826

Plane from Cuenca Airport to Quito Airport

Average Duration
47m
Estimated price
$827-828
Website
avianca.com

Plane from Cuenca Airport to Quito Airport

Average Duration
51m
Estimated price
$825-823
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
032740070
Website
transportesamazonas.com.com.ec

Bus from Cuenca to Puyo

Average Duration
1h 49m
Estimated price
$9-829
Contact phone
+593 3-287-1787
Website
facebook.com

Bus from Cuenca to Puyo

Average Duration
3h 36m
Estimated price
$9-1881
Contact phone
+593 3 252 1073
Website
cooperativasanta.ec

Bus from Cuenca to Terminal Terrestre Quitumbe

Average Duration
8h 30m
Estimated price
$1883-1884
Contact phone
+59 07 257 1861
Website
cooperativaloja.com.ec

Bus from Cuenca to Terminal Terrestre Quitumbe

Average Duration
8h 31m
Estimated price
$1885-1886
Contact phone
+593 99 704 9828
Website
tourisanfrancisco.com

Bus from Puyo to Terminal Terrestre Quitumbe

Average Duration
2h 10m
Estimated price
$1882-1881
Contact phone
+593 7-282-4005
Website
facebook.com

Bus from Cuenca to Terminal Terrestre Quitumbe

Average Duration
8h
Estimated price
$1887-1884
Website
occidentales.ec

Bus from La Troncal to Terminal Terrestre Quitumbe

Average Duration
6h 55m
Estimated price
$1883-1889

Cuenca to Quito: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Cuenca and Quito offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on a scenic journey from Cuenca to Quito by car, covering a distance of 281 miles in approximately 6 hours and 23 minutes. The route offers breathtaking views of Ecuador's diverse landscapes. 💸 Travel costs to reach Quito from Cuenca by car typically range from $25 to $40, making it an affordable and flexible mode of transportation. Plan your budget accordingly and enjoy the freedom of the open road.
Average price
$25 - $40
🛫 Experience a convenient and swift journey by taking a direct 45-minute flight from Cuenca Airport to Quito Airport with airlines like Euroairlines, Avianca - Aerovías del Continente Americano S.A., and LATAM Chile. 🌄 Enjoy the scenic views as you cover the 1-hour and 35-minute flight duration from Cuenca to Quito. It's a quick and efficient way to travel between these two vibrant Ecuadorian cities. 💸 Prices for flights between Quito and Cuenca typically range from $82 to $188, offering a range of options to suit different budgets for your travel convenience.
Departure Point
Cuenca Airport
Arrival Point
Quito Airport
🚌 The journey from Cuenca to Quito by bus offers a convenient and frequent service, with departures every 20 minutes. The trip takes approximately 8 hours and 31 minutes, providing travelers with a scenic route through Ecuador's diverse landscapes. 💸 Prices for the bus ride from Cuenca to Quito range from $9 to $40, providing budget-friendly options for those looking to explore Ecuador's capital city without breaking the bank. The journey culminates at Terminal Terrestre Quitumbe station, where travelers can continue their adventures in Quito.
Departure Point
Cuenca station
Arrival Point
Terminal Terrestre Quitumbe station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Cuenca to Quito.

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The distance between Cuenca and Quito in Ecuador is 189 miles, or 281 miles by road. The typical travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. By plane, it takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes to reach Quito from Cuenca. By car, the journey takes around 6 hours and 23 minutes from Quito to Cuenca. If traveling by bus, it takes approximately 8 hours and 32 minutes to reach Quito from Cuenca. These travel times are approximate and may vary depending on traffic and other factors.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Cuenca to Quito is by bus, which costs between $9-$40 and takes approximately 8 hours and 32 minutes. However, if time is a priority, the quickest option is to fly, which takes only 1 hour and 30 minutes but costs between $85-$190. Both options have their advantages depending on budget and time constraints.
The prices of a bus ticket between Quito and Cuenca can vary, with a range of $9 to $40. This variation in price may be due to factors such as the type of bus, the level of comfort, and any additional services provided. It is recommended to check with different bus companies to find the best price and options for your travel needs.
To travel from Cuenca to Quito without using public transportation, you can opt to rent a car and drive. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 281 miles, and it takes around 6 hours and 23 minutes to drive from Cuenca to Quito. The prices for renting a car vary but can range from $25 to $40 depending on the rental company and vehicle type.
The best way to travel from Cuenca to Quito without a car is by taking a bus. The bus route usually goes through Puyo and takes around 5 hours and 8 minutes. The cost of the bus ticket ranges from $16 to $35, depending on the type of bus and the amenities provided. This is a popular option for travelers as it offers a convenient and affordable way to reach Quito from Cuenca.
Yes, there is a direct link between Cuenca and Quito. There are buses that depart from Cuenca and arrive at Quito Terminal Quitumbe. These services operate hourly and every day, with a journey time of approximately 8 hours and 32 minutes. The bus services are operated by Amazonas Cooperativa de Transportes and Touris San Francisco.
The flight between Cuenca and Quito typically takes around 40 minutes. The prices for this flight can vary from $85 to $188, depending on the airline and the time of booking. It is a quick and convenient option for travelers who want to minimize travel time and prefer to fly.
There are plenty of options for accommodation near Quito. With over 770 hotels to choose from, travelers can find a place to stay to suit their budget and preferences. Prices for hotels in Quito start at $12, making it affordable for different types of travelers. Whether you are looking for luxury hotels, budget accommodations, or charming bed and breakfasts, there are plenty of options available near Quito.