Victoria Delicious Donut Adventure by Underground Donut Tour

Imagine strolling through Victoria’s charming downtown, your senses delighting in the sweet aroma of freshly baked donuts from four distinct shops. For just $65, you get a 2-hour guided walking experience that combines food, history, and fun—a perfect way to indulge your sweet tooth while exploring one of Canada’s most picturesque cities. Led by knowledgeable guides like Cait, this tour isn’t just about donuts; it’s about discovering the soul of Victoria through its local bakeries, iconic landmarks, and hidden stories.

What makes this experience special? First, the variety of donut shops—from a colorful 50s-themed diner to a family-run local favorite—that showcase Victoria’s diverse baking scene. Second, the blend of culinary delight and city sightseeing, providing both treats and insights into Victoria’s history. The only potential downside? If you’re not a fan of walking or have mobility issues, this 2-hour stroll might require a bit of stamina, but the pace is generally relaxed and friendly.

This tour suits food lovers, history buffs, and anyone curious about Victoria’s local culture. Families, groups celebrating special occasions, or just travelers eager to taste their way through the city will find it both enjoyable and memorable. So, if you’re looking for a fun, authentic way to experience Victoria’s food scene, this donut adventure could be just the ticket.

Key Points

• Curated route: Visits four top local donut shops, each with its own unique flavor and style.
• Balanced experience: Combines food tastings with short walks and interesting tidbits about Victoria’s landmarks.
• Inclusive and flexible: Suitable for groups of all sizes, including family and corporate events, but not ideal for those with mobility challenges.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable, engaging guides like Cait make the tour educational and entertaining.
• Value for money: At $65, you get a generous sampling of donuts, plus a lot of local insights within a compact time frame.
• Authentic local flavor: Stops include beloved, locally focused bakeries that add a genuine touch to your experience.

We loved how this tour offers more than just sweet treats—it’s a gentle exploration of Victoria’s districts, landmarks, and local flavor. Starting at Empire Donuts, with its funky 50s diner aesthetic and intergalactic-themed donuts, sets the tone for a playful, engaging experience. We appreciated how the guide took us past some of the best restaurants and iconic sights, like the Empress Hotel and Parliament Buildings, all while sharing tidbits about the city’s history and culture.

What truly stands out are the donut shops themselves. The first stop at Empire Donuts is a feast for the eyes and taste buds, with their unique, colorful offerings. Then, walking to a popular local coffee and donut spot, you get a sense of Victoria’s culinary diversity—a perfect mix of classic and creative flavors. The third stop, a family-run shop known for its delightful donuts, emphasizes the importance of supporting local businesses. Ending at Friend and Family Bake in Chinatown, with Filipino treats and the chance to see donuts being made, caps a memorable journey.

The guides earn high praise for their enthusiasm, knowledge, and ability to balance stories with tastings. As one reviewer noted, Cait curated four “unique bakeries to showcase some of the best donuts we’ve ever had,” making the experience both delicious and educational. Others mention how the tour helped them capture great photos of Victoria’s landmarks and learn interesting facts they’d never discover on their own.

Starting at Empire Donuts, you’re greeted with a vibrant, retro-inspired shop that feels like stepping into a different era. This spot’s intergalactic 50s diner style isn’t just for show—it’s a fun, quirky place that offers unique donuts with a playful presentation. Here, you’ll sample some of the best donuts Victoria has to offer and learn about what makes Empire so special.

From there, the walk takes you to a cozy coffee and donut shop, a local favorite, where the aroma alone makes it worth the stop. As you stroll along downtown Victoria, your guide will point out landmarks and share stories about the city’s past, giving your walk a sense of place and history. This segment is ideal for those wanting a taste of Victoria’s urban charm and lively atmosphere.

Next, you’ll visit a local mom-and-pop donut shop—a true community gem that prioritizes quality and tradition. The owners are passionate about their craft, and the donuts reflect that love, often with flavors and styles you might not find elsewhere. It’s an authentic slice of Victoria’s small business culture, adding depth to your foodie adventure.

Finally, your tour concludes in Chinatown at Friend and Family Bake. This bakery offers Filipino treats, including donuts, and often gives visitors the chance to see donuts being made fresh, adding a behind-the-scenes feel. It’s a warm, welcoming spot that celebrates Victoria’s multicultural fabric.

This tour doesn’t just satisfy your sweet tooth; it offers a window into Victoria’s local culture and history. As you walk, your guide shares stories about the city’s development, its landmarks, and the significance of each neighborhood. The stops are carefully chosen to combine culinary delight with cultural insight.

You’ll love the variety of donuts—from classic glazed and chocolate to more inventive flavors—each representing a different facet of Victoria’s baking scene. The sampling process is generous, with enough bites to leave you satisfied without overindulging. Plus, the small group size makes it easy to ask questions and feel engaged throughout.

One reviewer praised the knowledgeable guide Cait, saying she made the experience very informative and fun, and appreciated how she curated each bakery to showcase some of the best donuts in Victoria. Another mentioned taking memorable photos of landmarks like the Empress Hotel, which makes the tour a perfect blend of food, sightseeing, and photo ops.

At $65, this tour offers excellent value, considering the quality and quantity of donuts, plus the insights into Victoria’s food scene and landmarks. The tour lasts 2 hours, which is enough time to enjoy yourself without feeling rushed. It’s held in the morning or afternoon, providing flexibility for your sightseeing schedule.

The group size tends to be manageable, and the walk is relatively easy, though not suited for those with mobility impairments. You’ll want to wear comfortable shoes, bring water, and be prepared for weather—Victoria’s often mild, but rain is always a possibility.

Parking fees are not included, so plan accordingly if you’re driving. The guide will provide a detailed route and background, and you can always find more info on their website.

For food lovers and city explorers, this tour provides a delightful way to spend a couple of hours. It’s especially appealing if you enjoy supporting local businesses and want a fun, relaxed experience that combines culinary sampling with sightseeing. The high praise from previous guests highlights the quality of guides and the deliciousness of the donuts—something you’ll remember long after the last bite.

If you’re traveling with family, friends, or celebrating a special occasion, this tour offers a light-hearted, engaging experience that’s both educational and tasty. It’s a wonderful introduction to Victoria’s food culture, with enough variety and stories to keep everyone engaged.

The Victoria Delicious Donut Adventure is a sweet spot for those wanting to indulge in local flavors while soaking in the city’s charm. It’s practical, authentic, and full of small surprises that make it well worth your time and money.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, many families enjoy this tour, especially if children have a sweet tooth. Just keep in mind the walking involved and that some shops may have steps or limited seating.

How much walking is involved?
The tour involves a short walk between stops, approximately within downtown Victoria. It’s designed to be manageable, but you should wear comfortable shoes.

Are the donuts included in the price?
Yes, the tour includes generous tastings at four different donut shops, providing a variety of flavors and styles.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility if your plans shift.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
The tour is wheelchair accessible, but it’s best to check with the provider beforehand to confirm specific needs.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, making it a perfect short activity for a morning or afternoon.

Do I need to pay for parking?
Parking fees are not included in the tour price, so plan accordingly if you’re driving.

Is this tour available year-round?
While not explicitly stated, most tours operate in suitable weather, so check with the provider for seasonal availability.

In the end, whether you’re a food enthusiast, a history lover, or just someone eager to taste some of Victoria’s best donuts, this guided tour offers a well-rounded, enjoyable experience. It’s a tasty way to connect with the city’s charm, support local bakeries, and satisfy your sweet cravings—all in just two hours.