Ambato

Ambato is an important industrial hub in Ecuador and as such, most tourists won't see much more than the bus terminal as a stopover on the way to Baños.

Given its central location in the country, Ambato is well connected to all parts of the country. Buses run from Quito (2.5 hr), Baños ($1, 1 hr), Cuenca ($6, 6 hr), Riobamba ($1.25, 1 hr), and many others.

• 1 City Center. Much of the city has been devastated multiple times by earthquakes, most recently in 1949, so don't get your expectations too high when visiting the city center. The cathedral from 1954 next to Parque Juan Montalvo is considered the landmark of Ambato; however, most locals (and visitors) are not too excited about its modern architecture. A highlight of the center are seven large murals that have been painted onto the walls of some public buildings in early 2017. (updated Feb 2017)
• 2 Jardín Botánico Atocha-La Liria. Ambato's botanical gardens (updated Feb 2017)
• 3 Quinta De Juan Leon Mera, Dr. Rodrigo Pachano Lalama (across the street from the botanical garden). Daily 09:00-17:00. Hacienda type of museum where a writer used to live. Adjacent in the park is the similar Casa Museo Martínez-Holguín.  (updated Dec 2020)

• 1 Pastelería Quito, Mera 547 and Cavallos, ☏ . Famous Ambato's bread, Brakfast, Cafeteria and Pastry. (updated Dec 2020)

• 1 Hotel Emperador, Av Cevallos 10-14, ☏ . Nice modern hotel situated right by the Parque Cevallos and offering a complimentary breakfast and indoor pool. Then there's a bar if you're feeling like a little night cap. $40. (updated Dec 2020)
• 2 Hotel Imperial Ambato, Av. Doce de Noviembre, ☏ . It might not be in the most invigorating area, but maybe you'll spare a buck or two since it includes breakfast and rates may be very economical. may be as low as $6. (updated Dec 2020)