Quito Old Town: Walking Tour with Food Tastings & Historic Churches

Summary

Walk Quito’s plazas taste local sweets see golden baroque churches

You’ll walk through Quito’s Old Town with a local guide, tasting traditional candies as you explore Independence Plaza, San Francisco Church, and the gold-filled La Compañía de Jesús. Expect small surprises: stories behind ancient facades, rooftop views if you time it right, and friendly advice for your next Ecuador adventure.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I remember is the echo of church bells bouncing off the stone in Independence Plaza. Our guide, Andrés, waved us over — he had this easy way of making everyone feel like we’d known him for ages. We squeezed past a group of school kids chasing pigeons and stopped in front of the presidential palace. The air smelled faintly of roasted corn from a nearby cart. I tried one of those coconut candies he handed out (I think it was called “cocada”?) — sweet, sticky, and somehow exactly right for that moment.

We wandered up toward the Basilica of the National Vow, all sharp angles and impossible gargoyles. I’d seen pictures before but didn’t expect how massive it felt up close. Andrés pointed out tiny details — turtles instead of dragons on the facade — and told us about how you can climb up to the towers if you’re feeling brave (I wasn’t). Then we ducked into San Francisco Church; it was quieter inside, almost chilly, with old wooden pews that creaked when you sat down. He mentioned this was where South America’s first brewery started, which made me laugh for some reason. I kept thinking about how many layers this city has.

The real surprise was La Compañía de Jesús — people call it the Golden Church for good reason. Gold leaf everywhere, but not flashy; more like candlelight caught in motion. Andrés whispered about Jesuits building it for 160 years. We tasted another snack outside (something anise-flavored) while he gave us tips on where to find good coffee or ceviche later on. He even said we could message him if we needed help planning trips beyond Quito — I liked that.

We ended at the old university building; if you go on a weekday you can climb to the rooftop and see all of Old Town spread out below, tile roofs and laundry lines stretching toward the mountains. I’m still thinking about that view now — sometimes a city just gets under your skin without warning.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Walking tour of Quito's Old Town

• Visit Plaza Grande and learn history
• Explore the Gothic Basilica of the National Vow
• See San Francisco Church and brewery site
• Admire the Church of the Society of Jesus
• Visit first University building and rooftop view

Top questions

How long does the walking tour in Quito's Old Town last?

The exact duration isn’t listed but expect several hours covering main plazas and churches at a relaxed pace.

Are food tastings included in this Quito walking tour?

Yes, free tastings of typical candies and snacks are included during the tour.

Which churches do we visit on this Quito Old Town tour?

You’ll visit Basilica of the National Vow, San Francisco Church, and La Compañía de Jesús (the Golden Church).

Is hotel pickup included in this walking tour?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; tours start at a central meeting point in Old Town.

Can infants or small children join this Quito walking tour?

Yes, infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller during the tour.

Is this day trip suitable for people with limited mobility?

The tour is suitable for most fitness levels but not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health due to walking involved.

Do we get to try Ecuadorian food or just sweets?

The inclusions mention typical candies and snacks; full meals are not specified but your guide will offer food tips after.

Are there public transportation options nearby?

Yes, public transportation options are available near the starting point in central Quito.

What’s included

Your day includes guided walks through historic plazas and churches in Quito’s Old Town plus free tastings of traditional candies and snacks along the route; your local guide also offers personal travel tips for exploring more of Ecuador after your tour ends.