Guayaquil is Ecuador’s largest city and a key economic hub located along the western banks of the Guayas River, just inland from the Pacific coast. With over 2.6 million residents in its metropolitan area, it is the country’s main port and an important stop for travelers en route to the Galápagos Islands. In this post, we’ll explore the best areas to stay in Guayaquil, Ecuador.
Unlike the highland cities of the Andes, Guayaquil sits at sea level and features a hot, humid tropical climate year-round. It combines colonial heritage and modern development, with districts ranging from the historic Las Peñas neighborhood to newer business and residential zones like Samborondón and Urdesa.
One of the city’s main landmarks is the Malecón 2000, a renovated riverside promenade featuring gardens, shopping areas, museums, and monuments like the La Rotonda. North of it is Las Peñas, a colorful hillside neighborhood filled with art galleries and bars, while Cerro Santa Ana offers panoramic views after a climb up its 444 steps. Guayaquil is also home to the Parque Histórico, the Municipal Museum, and Parque Seminario, known for its population of free-roaming iguanas.
The city is served by José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport, located 5 km (3 mi) from the center. It offers flights to destinations across the Americas, Europe, and charter flights to the Galapagos Islands. The nearby Terminal Terrestre connects Guayaquil with cities throughout Ecuador. Public transport includes buses and the Metrovía, a bus rapid transit system with dedicated lanes. Taxis and ride-hailing apps are widely available.
Keep reading to discover the best areas to stay in Guayaquil and what makes each neighborhood a good choice depending on your travel plans.
What are the best areas to stay in Guayaquil?
Guayaquil spreads out along the Guayas River, with the center close to the riverbank and newer developments expanding northward.
The best area to stay in Guayaquil is around Malecón 2000. This lively riverfront promenade is central, well-connected, and home to modern attractions like parks, museums, shopping malls, and riverside paths. It’s also one of the safest and most convenient districts in Guayaquil. Find accommodation around Guayaquil’s Malecón.
Not far, Las Peñas is a colorful hillside neighborhood known for its restored colonial houses, art galleries, and lively atmosphere. With its scenic views and walkable access to Cerro Santa Ana and the Malecón, it’s ideal for travelers interested in culture and city exploration. On the other hand, those looking for a more exclusive experience might prefer the northern neighborhoods like Simón Bolívar, Garzota, and Ciudadela Kennedy, which offer upscale shopping centers, gated communities, and international hotels.
Lastly, Centro Histórico offers all kinds of accommodations, a central location, and access to public transport.
Keep reading to find out more about the best areas to stay in Guayaquil, Ecuador.
The Best Districts for Tourists in Guayaquil: A Quick Guide
Below, you’ll find a short summary of the best Guayaquil neighborhoods depending on your travel style and what you plan to do during your trip. Keep reading below to find all the specific information you need about each particular area mentioned here.
- Best district for sightseeing: Malecón 2000
- Safest area to stay in Guayaquil: Simón Bolívar
- Best district for nightlife: Malecón 2000
- Best location for families: Puerto Santa Ana
- Best location for backpackers: Centro de Guayaquil
- Best location for business travelers: Ciudadela Kennedy
- Best district for shopping: Garzota
The Best Areas to Stay in Guayaquil: District by District
1. Malecón 2000
The best area to stay in Guayaquil for nightlife
Thanks to its combination of attractions, nightlife, and connections, Malecón 2000 is one of the best areas to stay in Guayaquil.
Malecón 2000 is one of Guayaquil’s most recognizable landmarks. Located along the western bank of the Guayas River, it stretches for 2.5 km (1.5 mi) from the southern edge of Las Peñas to the center of the city. This riverfront park (which is officially called Malecón Simón Bolívar) is a pedestrian-friendly zone featuring museums, parks, monuments, shopping areas, and restaurants.
Among its highlights are the La Rotonda Monument, commemorating the historic meeting between Simón Bolívar and José de San Martín, and the Torre Morisca, a Moorish-style clock tower. Additionally, the IMAX theater, Cultural Center, and Museo Miniatura offer entertainment and educational options, while the Malecón Gardens provide shaded areas to relax along the river.
The southern section of the Malecón connects directly to the city’s civic and banking district, while the northern end leads to Las Peñas and Puerto Santa Ana. Its central location means it is easy to access on foot from other nearby neighborhoods. The area is also well-served by public transport, with Metrovía stations like Jardines del Malecón and Banco Central within short walking distance.
Furthermore, this district is considered one of the safest in Guayaquil and is constantly patrolled. Accommodation nearby ranges from mid-range hotels to high-rise serviced apartments, ideal for travelers seeking a central, walkable location with easy access to many of the city’s main sights.
Our hand-picked accommodations near Malecón 2000
Ibis Styles El Malecon Guayaquil
Located in Guayaquil, a 5-minute walk from Malecon 2000, Ibis Styles El Malecon Guayaquil provides accommodations with a fitness center, free private parking, a terrace, and a restaurant.
2. Las Peñas & Puerto Santa Ana
The most charming area to stay in Guayaquil
Known for its colorful wooden houses, cobbled streets, and colonial architecture, Las Peñas offers an insight into the city’s past.
Located at the foot of Cerro Santa Ana, Las Peñas is Guayaquil’s oldest neighborhood, dating back to the 16th century. Once the city’s original core, it has been recently restored.
The district’s centerpiece is the Santa Ana Hill staircase, a 444-step climb lined with cafés, small art galleries, and bars. It leads to a lighthouse and chapel with panoramic views of the city and the Guayas River.
Beyond the staircase, the area includes several cultural and historical sites, including the Museo Nahim Isaías, Museo del Cacao y del Chocolate, and Museo de la Música Popular Guayaquileña. Nearby, Plaza Colón serves as a gathering point and connects the district to the riverfront.
Just north of Las Peñas is Puerto Santa Ana, a modern residential and commercial area with luxury towers, international restaurants, riverside cafés, and a boardwalk offering views of the Guayas. Furthermore, it is one of the safest and most walkable areas in the city.
This district is popular among travelers thanks to its safe, pedestrian-friendly layout and cultural attractions. It’s served by taxis and ride-hailing apps, with the nearest Metrovía station (Las Peñas) about a 15-minute walk away. Accommodation here includes boutique hotels, furnished apartments, and a few mid-range options with river views.
Our hand-picked accommodations in Las Peñas & Puerto Santa Ana
Casa Las Peñas Siglo XXI B&B
Las Peñas Siglo XXI offers accommodations with an outdoor swimming pool, private parking, a bar, and a shared lounge. The property also has a 24-hour front desk, room service, and free Wi-Fi throughout.
3. Simón Bolívar
A modern shopping district near the airport
Known for its upscale residential and commercial areas, Ciudadela Simón Bolívar is an excellent choice for business travelers and luxury accommodations in Guayaquil.
Located just north of the airport and east of Garzota, Ciudadela Simón Bolívar is a residential and commercial district in northern Guayaquil. It is known for its wide avenues, shopping centers, and housing developments.
Its ordered streets and modern complexes offer a quiet alternative to the busy downtown districts.
This area is home to CityMall and Riocentro Norte, two major malls with international brands, supermarkets, and food courts. While it lacks the historic charm of central Guayaquil, Simón Bolívar offers a local atmosphere with modern conveniences.
In terms of transportation, the district is served by multiple Metrovía stations, especially along Avenida Francisco de Orellana. It’s also close to José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport, making it a convenient option for travelers in transit.
Accommodations here include luxurious four and five-star hotels, upscale serviced apartments, and some mid-range options.
Our hand-picked accommodations in Simón Bolívar
Wyndham Garden Guayaquil
Located 3 minutes away from the Jose Joaquin de Olmedo International Airport, this hotel offers modern accommodations in the main commercial area of Guayaquil. It features a wellness center, and free WiFi.
4. Centro Histórico
A convenient location with all kinds of accommodations
Guayaquil Centro is a good area to stay for travelers interested in history and culture.
The Centro Histórico of Guayaquil is located just south of Las Peñas and west of the Malecón 2000. This area, also called the colonial center, is the historic and administrative heart of the city. Its streets follow a grid layout and host several important plazas, government buildings, and religious landmarks.
Key attractions include Parque Seminario, famous for its resident iguanas and the Metropolitan Cathedral of Guayaquil. Nearby, Parque Centenario is one of the city’s largest green spaces, while Plaza de la Administración is surrounded by historical buildings such as the Municipal Palace and Governor’s Palace. Cultural institutions like the Museo Municipal and Museo Presley Norton are also located here.
The neighborhood is well connected by several Metrovía stations, including Parque Centenario and Biblioteca Municipal, making it easy to reach from other parts of the city.
Accommodation options in the Centro Histórico include everything from budget hotels and hostels to boutique properties in refurbished colonial buildings.
Our hand-picked accommodations in Centro de Guayaquil
Hotel Presidente Internacional
Attractively located in the center of Guayaquil, Hotel Presidente Internacional has air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi, free private parking and room service.
5. Ciudadela Kennedy
An upscale district in Northern Guayaquil
In the city’s upscale northern end, Ciudadela Kennedy is an excellent area to stay in Guayaquil.
Ciudadela Kennedy is a residential and commercial neighborhood located northeast of the city center. It borders major thoroughfares such as Avenida Francisco de Orellana and Avenida Kennedy, offering easy access to shopping centers, universities, and healthcare facilities.
The area is known for Policentro, one of Guayaquil’s oldest shopping malls, and the adjacent San Marino Shopping, which hosts a wide selection of international brands, restaurants, and entertainment venues. It is also home to several educational institutions, including branches of ESPOL and UEES.
Public transport is widely available, with Metrovía stops along Avenida Orellana and bus routes connecting it to other neighborhoods. The area is about 10 minutes by car from the airport and the long-distance bus terminal.
Ciudadela Kennedy offers many luxury hotels, upscale serviced apartments, and short-term rentals.
Our hand-picked accommodations in Ciudadela Kennedy
Courtyard by Marriott Guayaquil
Featuring a pool and a fitness center at the terrace, Courtyard by Marriott Guayaquil is set in an impressive modern building 1.2 mi from Guayaquil’s World Trade Center. There is a restaurant and free WiFi access.
6. Garzota
A quiet northern suburb with airport access
Located adjacent to the International Airport and near the bus station, Garzota is a convenient area to stay in Guayaquil.
Garzota is mainly residential but also features commercial areas along major avenues such as Francisco de Orellana and José María Egas. It is considered one of northern Guayaquil’s more convenient and well-connected districts.
José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport (GYE) is Guayaquil’s main air gateway and busiest airport in Ecuador. It handles domestic flights, as well as international services to destinations across the Americas and Spain. The airport serves as a hub for LATAM and Avianca, offering direct routes to Miami, New York, Panama City, Bogotá, Lima, and Madrid. Its modern terminal provides dining options, duty-free stores, and currency exchange facilities.
Its proximity to the airport makes it a popular base for travelers with early flights or short stays. The neighborhood also offers quick access to Terminal Terrestre, the city’s long-distance bus terminal, located just across the road.
While Garzota doesn’t have major tourist attractions, it does feature shopping centers like Mall del Sol, one of the largest and most upscale malls in the city, with cinemas, restaurants, and international stores. The area is safe, walkable, and well-served by public transport and taxis.
Hotel offerings in Garzota range from business-style hotels to serviced apartments.
Our hand-picked accommodations in Garzota
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