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Things We Love About…Cuenca, Ecuador

Things We Love About…Cuenca, Ecuador

Stunning Architecture

As a UNESCO World Heritage site, Cuenca has well preserved colonial architecture, and the sheer scope and detail of the buildings, particularly the churches, are incredible.

Cuenca Ecuador Church

Iconic Blue Church Top in Cuenca Ecuador

San Blas Church Cuenca Ecuador

San Blas Church Cuenca Ecuador

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Jogging Paths

Four rivers run through Cuenca: the Tomebamba, Yanuncay, Tarqui and Machangara. There are numerous parks throughout the City and whole sections of the rivers have been preserved with walking or jogging paths, often with green space, along the rivers that flow through Cuenca. We found that a great way to find new sites is to strap on our sneakers and go out on a run.

Wide Path In Cuenca

Wide Sidewalks Perfect for Jogging in Cuenca

Stream Running Through Cuenca

Stream Running Through Cuenca

 

Walking

Streets that are well lighted and feel totally safe at night.  We love to walk and this city provides a haven for wandering and taking in the scenery night and day.

Night View Of Church in Cuenca

Night View Of Church in Cuenca

 

Markets

Local markets overflow with fresh produce, meat and seafood, as well as every sort of other inexpensive and quality products.But don’t let the locals in colorful unassuming outfits fool you —   negotiate or be prepared to overpay.

Image source: http://radiomanridestheworld.com/?p=1129

Image source: http://radiomanridestheworld.com/?p=1129

Selection of Restaurants

We have found some great local restaurants and have wandered by other restaurants featuring Mediterranean, Italian, American, Swiss and even a Caribbean place we plan to check out.

Amcry Swiss Restaurant

Amcry Swiss Restaurant

Admittedly, it’s a little weird that the first time we’ve had Swiss raclette was in South America, but we will be back.

Cleanliness

There is clearly an enormous amount of local pride in the city — everywhere you look there is someone picking up trash and sweeping the streets.2014-03-09 10.24.11

 

Street Art

It’s everywhere you look, and the artwork speaks for itself. See more in our Street Art Photo Tour post.

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Bakeries and Ice Cream

There is a Panaderia (bakery) full of bread and pasteries on almost every corner, with incredible cakes, tarts, eclairs, and more.  The smell of fresh baked bread in the air as you walk by can be maddening.2014-03-08 13.29.51

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People

We feel very welcome here and are looking forward to meeting more of the people that live here and about this amazing place.

You may enjoy these related articles:

Cuenca Street Art

Cuenca Side Trip – El Cajas National Park

 

Saana / Always Abroad

Wednesday 13th of May 2015

Great photos - Ecuador looks amazing! Wish I'll have the chance to visit one day :)

RaW | Ramble and Wander

Monday 11th of May 2015

I'd most definitely fall in love with any city that has well preserved colonial architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage site status to boot. Based on these photos, I know I would with Cuenca too!

Travelwith2ofus

Saturday 9th of May 2015

Really amazing photos. The place looks peaceful and I love the architecture.

Brenda

Saturday 9th of May 2015

This is a great list of unexpected things to discover in Cuenca. It's great that it's a walkable city. Being New Yorkers, we love walking around to explore. I also appreciate that it's clean, has great food and the running paths.

Gemma Two Scots Abroad

Saturday 9th of May 2015

I love a place with running routes and those views are a delight! We recently cooked our own food on 'rocks' too, I enjoy playing with my food!