Gastronomic and Cultural Walking Tour of Quito with Tastings

Experience a taste of Quito’s history, culture, and gastronomy with this engaging walking tour. For just under $40 per person, you’ll spend around three and a half hours exploring the old town, visiting iconic landmarks, and sampling local sweets, chocolates, and drinks. Led by friendly, well-informed guides like Vivi or Kevin, this tour offers an authentic introduction to the city’s vibrant traditions and stunning sights.

What we love most about this experience are two specific aspects: the spectacular panoramic view from the Basilica del Voto Nacional towers, and the variety of tastings that include Ecuadorian chocolates, empanadas, and traditional sweets. Both provide memorable moments that bring the city’s culture to life.

However, one thing to keep in mind is that food tastings are quite limited, mostly small bites like chocolates and empanadas, with no full meal included. If you’re expecting a hearty culinary experience, you might want to supplement this tour with a proper lunch afterward.

This tour is perfect for travelers interested in culture, history, and local flavors without being a full-blown food tour. It’s especially well-suited for first-time visitors wanting a broad, lively overview of Quito’s historic center, its landmarks, and its local traditions.

Key Points

• Balanced experience combining Quito’s main sights with cultural insights.
• Tastings include Ecuadorian sweets, chocolate, and traditional drinks like canelazo.
• Expert guides like Vivi and Kevin enhance storytelling and engagement.
• Limited food offerings mean it’s more cultural and scenic than a full culinary journey.
• Small group size (max 15 travelers) ensures personal attention.
• Tour ends conveniently at Plaza San Francisco, perfect for continuing your exploration.

Exploring Quito’s Old Town through a Guided Walk

This 3-hour 30-minute tour is a well-rounded way to soak in Quito’s rich history and lively culture while enjoying a handful of delicious local snacks. Starting at the Parque Gabriel García Moreno Vargas, the tour takes you through the heart of the historic center, one of the most beautiful and significant areas in the Americas, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

For just $39.60 per person, you gain not only guided commentary but also multiple tastings and access to some of Quito’s standout landmarks. The price is quite reasonable given what’s included, especially considering the expert guidance and carefully chosen stops that are off the usual tourist trail.

Two details particularly stand out: the visit to the Basilica del Voto Nacional, where you can ascend its towers for breathtaking views over the city, and the chocolate tasting at Yumbos Chocolate, which often earns rave reviews. These moments become the highlights that keep this tour memorable.

On the downside, this isn’t a tour for those wanting a full-fledged food experience. The tastings are mostly small bites—think chocolates, empanadas, and a sample of local liquor or juice. Several reviewers mention they’d recommend eating beforehand or planning for a full meal afterward, as the tour isn’t enough to satisfy a hearty appetite.

In terms of pacing, the guides like Vivi or Kevin do an excellent job of balancing sightseeing with storytelling. You’ll learn about Quito’s colonial architecture, indigenous traditions, and the city’s evolution over centuries. The small size of the group means you’re likely to get personalized attention, making it easier to ask questions or pause for photos.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Stop 1: Basilica del Voto Nacional
Your journey begins here with a visit to this impressive Neo-Gothic church, built to resemble Notre Dame. The highlight is ascending the towers, where you’re rewarded with panoramic views of Quito’s rooftops and volcanoes beyond. The admission fee isn’t included, so check your ticket or plan for a small extra charge. The visit sets an inspiring tone for the rest of the tour, blending architecture, history, and stunning vistas.

Stop 2: Museo Camilo Egas
A smaller, focused art gallery dedicated to indigenous stories and traditions. Depending on the day, this stop might be skipped if closed, but when open, it offers a glimpse into Ecuador’s native cultures through local art and artifacts. It’s a quick visit—about 15 minutes—so don’t expect an in-depth museum experience, but it enriches your understanding of Ecuadorian identity.

Stop 3: Palacio Arzobispal
Here, you’ll sample traditional Ecuadorian sweets, giving you a taste of the local confectionery. This quick stop is free, but it’s a delightful way to engage your taste buds with regional flavors that reflect the country’s culinary traditions.

Stop 4: Plaza de la Independencia
This historic square is the heart of Quito’s colonial core, where your guide will explain the development of the city. From here, you can see the Palacio de Gobierno and the cathedral, both essential sites in Quito’s story. The square itself is lively, often filled with street performers and locals, making it a perfect spot for photos and people watching.

Walking through the Old Town
Your guide will lead you along the city’s most famous street, pointing out buildings like the Iglesia de la Compañía de Jesús, with its gold-leafed façade that is often considered the city’s most stunning example of Quito’s Baroque architecture. While you might choose to return later to explore inside, from the outside, it’s a dazzling display of craftsmanship.

Stop 5: Antiguo Banco Central del Ecuador
Here, you’ll learn about Ecuador’s use of the US dollar and its unique currency history. It’s a brief but interesting stop that gives context to the country’s economic choices.

Stop 6: Iglesia y Convento de San Francisco
The largest convent in South America, this site offers a glimpse into ecclesiastical life and colonial architecture. Your guide will share curiosities about its history, making the visit more engaging.

Stop 7: Los Jugos De La Sucre
Time to indulge in Ecuadorian empanadas and fresh fruit juices. The options are generally vegetarian or vegan-friendly, and many reviews highlight this stop as a highlight for authentic, delicious snacks. It’s a perfect refreshment break amid the walking.

Stop 8: Yumbos Chocolate
This is the culinary highlight for many. Ecuador is famous for its fine aroma cocoa, and here you’ll taste different kinds of Ecuadorian chocolate. The guide shares the history and significance of chocolate in Ecuador, making it both a tasty and educational experience.

What Travelers Say

The reviews speak volumes about the quality of guides like Vivi and Kevin, both praised for their knowledgeability, friendliness, and storytelling skills. One reviewer called Vivi “amazing,” highlighting her enthusiasm and ability to make the city’s sights come alive. Several mention that she provided great tips for exploring Quito after the tour, which is invaluable for first-time visitors.

Many appreciated the variety of tastings—from chocolates to local liquors—saying it added a fun and flavorful dimension to the cultural walk. One person summed it up as “a great introduction to Quito and Ecuador,” perfect for those arriving for the first time.

However, some felt the small food portions meant they left hungry, and noted that the tour leans more toward culture and history than a comprehensive foodie experience. Still, most found the value for money excellent, given the guided insights and access to key sights.

Practical Details and Tips

The meeting point at Parque Gabriel García Moreno Vargas is central and accessible by public transport, making it easy to join. The tour ends at Plaza San Francisco, giving you a perfect spot to continue exploring or grab a meal.

Since the tour runs most days and is booked about a month in advance, it’s advisable to reserve early, especially in peak travel months. The small group size (max 15) ensures a personal experience, and the mobile ticket makes check-in straightforward.

Remember, admission fees for sites like the Basilica are not included, so budget for small extra charges if you wish to go inside. Also, the walking pace is moderate but expect some hills, as Quito’s terrain is quite hilly and at around 9,000 feet elevation.

The Sum Up

This Gastronomic and Cultural Walking Tour of Quito offers a fantastic way to get your bearings in this historic city. You’ll experience stunning views, learn about Ecuador’s indigenous and colonial past, and sample local sweets and chocolates—all guided by passionate, knowledgeable locals. It’s especially suited for those who want a broad overview with some memorable tastes along the way.

While it’s not a full-fledged food tour, the combination of landmarks, stories, and small bites delivers an authentic snapshot of Quito’s cultural fabric. Families, first-timers, history buffs, and curious travelers will find this tour both educational and enjoyable, making it a smart choice for a first day in Quito.

If you’re after a well-organized, friendly introduction to Quito’s most iconic sights paired with tasty bites and insight into local traditions, this walk is hard to beat.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
The tour involves walking through Quito’s hilly streets, so it may be challenging for those with mobility concerns. However, the pace is moderate, and guides are happy to assist.

Are food and drinks included?
Yes, you’ll taste traditional sweets, chocolates, empanadas, and local drinks like canelazo. No full meals are included, so plan accordingly.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes—a manageable length for most travelers wanting a rundown without exhaustion.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 15 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience and better interaction with the guide.

What sites are included?
Major landmarks like Basilica del Voto Nacional, Plaza de la Independencia, San Francisco Convent, and others are part of the route, along with cultural insights and tastings.

Can I visit the inside of the churches?
Some stops, like the Basilica and San Francisco, have optional interior visits, but admission is not included in the tour fee.

Is the tour good for children?
While most kids enjoy the sights and tasty snacks, the walking may be tiring for very young children. It’s best suited for older kids and teenagers.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a water bottle, and a camera. A small amount of extra cash for optional site entries or additional snacks is recommended.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Less than that, and your payment is non-refundable.

This tour delivers a charming, authentic peek into Quito’s history, culture, and flavors, making it a worthwhile choice for travelers seeking a balanced, personable introduction to the city. Whether you’re a history lover, foodie, or first-time visitor, you’ll likely come away with great stories—and plenty of delicious memories.