One of the few cities in Ecuador that I just didn't enjoy very much. Crowded, dirty, without much to see. But it's the starting point for the only train currently running in the country, and the train ride (all the tourists ride on top of the train) is definitely worth checking out.

I just got back to the US after living there for a semester, and frankly I hated it. There is not a lot of exciting things to do and the town itself was gray and ugly. If I was to go to Ecuador as a tourist, I would definitely skip Riobamba. Its a waste of time. The only good thing is the train ride (I got to ride ON TOP of the train), but it doesn't even go to Guayaquil anymore. It just goes til Nariz del Diablo. I recommend Cuenca instead, which is also located in the mountain region. Cuenca has some beautiful churches and buildings, and since it is a bigger city, it actually has a happening night life.

Not the most impressive city in terms of architecture. A lot of buildings are falling apart and there's a fair amount of new construction. The place to be if you want to do some serious climbing. Lots of guiding organizations to sign on with. Also the place to catch the train (the only track still running in the country) down to Guayaquil. This is a great trip. It's this old style train the kind that haven't been running in the states for probably 60 years. After the first stop everyone climbs up on the roof as it weaves it way up and down the mountains. A must absolutely fantastic trip!