Vancouver: The Sinners and Sweets Tour

Vancouver: The Sinners and Sweets Tour — An In-Depth Review

If you’re visiting Vancouver and want a tour that combines a bit of intrigue with some seriously delicious treats, The Sinners and Sweets Tour from Forbidden Vancouver might just be your perfect pick. This 2-hour walk promises a taste of the city’s architectural charm alongside fascinating stories of scandal, mystery, and crime — all punctuated with gourmet chocolates and pastries. We’ve gathered insights from those who’ve experienced it firsthand to give you a clear picture of what to expect.

What we particularly love about this tour is its blend of engaging storytelling by a knowledgeable guide, the opportunity to explore Vancouver’s most iconic heritage buildings, and, of course, the chance to sample some of the city’s finest sweet treats. The tour’s price of $64 provides good value considering the private viewings, insider stories, and tastings included.

One possible consideration is that the treats may contain common allergens like nuts, gluten, dairy, and eggs, which is important for those with dietary restrictions. Plus, the tour involves a fair amount of standing and walking, so it’s best suited for those who are comfortable on their feet. Ideal for history buffs, food lovers, and anyone wanting a unique way to see Vancouver, this tour caters well to those who appreciate storytelling paired with culinary delights.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Good To Know

• In-depth architectural tour of Vancouver’s most loved heritage buildings
• Engaging stories about true crime and scandal woven into the history
• Gourmet treats from top pastry chefs and chocolatiers included
• Expert local guides who are professional storytellers and historians
• Private viewings inside notable buildings like the Vancouver Art Gallery & Marine Building
• Accessible and wheelchair-friendly, with options for rainy days

An Overview of the Experience

The Sinners and Sweets Tour is a carefully curated mix of history, architecture, and culinary delights. Starting at Robson Street in downtown Vancouver, you’ll meet your guide, a friendly and well-informed storyteller. From there, the journey is a walk through some of Vancouver’s most prominent heritage sites, each with its own intriguing story.

The first stop is the Old Courthouse, now the Vancouver Art Gallery. Here, you’ll hear about a murder that still haunts the site, adding a chilling layer to the building’s aesthetic beauty. The guide, often praised for their storytelling skills—like Glenn, who was lauded as “so knowledgeable and funny”—makes these stories come alive, giving context beyond what a guidebook can offer.

Next, you’ll step inside the Hotel Vancouver, a grand building with hallways designed to mimic a 1930s ocean cruise liner, making it feel like you’ve traveled back in time. The guide highlights the art deco details and shares stories that reveal Vancouver’s glamorous past. The private viewing inside the Marine Building—often called the most beautiful in Vancouver—is a highlight, with its ornate art deco features providing photo-worthy moments.

Throughout the tour, you’ll hear about scandals, crimes, and secrets tucked into the city’s walls. The stories are balanced with fascinating insights into Vancouver’s architectural evolution, adding a layer of depth for those interested in more than just pretty facades.

The Culinary Highlights

No walking tour would be complete without treats, and this one delivers three carefully selected samples from Vancouver’s top pastry chefs and chocolatiers. The treats are a key part of the experience, with reviewers praising the quality—one even called the selection “incredible.” The treats are served at specific stops, giving you a chance to savor decadent chocolates, pastries, and other gourmet goodies.

However, it’s worth noting that the treats may contain common allergens, and the kitchens where they’re prepared handle gluten, eggs, dairy, and nuts. If you have allergies or dietary restrictions, it’s advisable to consider this before booking. Still, the treats add a sweet and satisfying end to each segment of your walk, making the two hours fly by.

The Itinerary: What You’ll See and Experience

Meeting Point: Outside the Old Navy at 708 Robson St — convenient and central, perfect for those staying in Downtown Vancouver.

First Stop: Vancouver Art Gallery (Old Courthouse) — This site offers a peek into the city’s judicial past, with a story of a murder that keeps the history lively. You’ll get to peek inside the building during the private viewings, which most reviews say is a significant highlight.

Second Stop: Hotel Vancouver — An iconic hotel with a storied past, its hallways resonate with old-world charm. Imagine walking through corridors that look like a classy cruise ship, while the guide shares tales of Vancouver’s opulence and scandals.

Third Stop: Marine Building — Known for its breathtaking Art Deco architecture, the Marine Building provides a stunning visual experience. The private viewing here is a rare opportunity, making it worth the tour fee alone.

Throughout, your guide will share tales of mystery, scandal, and true crime, creating a captivating narrative thread. The storytelling is described as thorough, with guides like Glenn and Rob bringing humor and insight that keep the group engaged.

Ending: The tour concludes back near Robson Street, leaving you with a memorable mix of history, architecture, and sweet indulgence.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Practical Details

Duration: 2 hours — perfect for a quick yet immersive experience, often available in the morning.
Price: $64 per person — offers good value considering the private access and quality treats.
Group Size: Typically small, with a minimum of 2 guests needed to run the tour, ensuring a personalized experience.
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible and suitable rain or shine—just remember to bring an umbrella if the weather calls for it.
Age Suitability: Not suitable for children under 10, which makes sense given the focus on stories of crime and scandal.
Booking: Flexible options for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, which adds peace of mind for planning.

How to Maximize Your Experience

• Bring your phone fully charged — the tour offers numerous photo opportunities of Vancouver’s stunning architecture.
• Wear comfortable shoes — the walk involves some standing and moving between stops.
• Note dietary restrictions — if you have allergies, consider whether you want to risk the treats or perhaps enjoy the storytelling without sampling the sweets.
• Arrive a few minutes early — the meeting point is central and easy to find, so give yourself a little extra time to settle in.

Authentic Reviews and Insights

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledge and humor of guides like Rob and Glenn, emphasizing their ability to weave stories that stick. One reviewer noted they’d learned “interesting stories about Vancouver” they wouldn’t find elsewhere, which makes the tour feel like a true insider experience.

The private viewings inside buildings like the Marine Building and Vancouver Art Gallery are also frequently highlighted as being worth the price. The treats, described as “incredible” and “delicious,” add a layer of indulgence that many find makes the experience feel special and well-rounded.

Some comments mention a bit of standing and listening, with one reviewer noting it was “heavier on old photos and stories,” but most agreed that the storytelling depth compensated for the occasional slower moments.

The Sum Up

The Sinners and Sweets Tour offers a charming and engaging way to see Vancouver’s architectural gems while indulging in gourmet chocolates and pastries. Its blend of history, storytelling, and culinary delights makes it ideal for travelers who enjoy learning with a sweet twist. The private viewings and knowledgeable guides create a personalized feel, making it a worthwhile addition to your Vancouver itinerary.

While it’s best suited for those comfortable on their feet and not with dietary restrictions, the tour’s charm lies in its storytelling and the chance to discover secret stories behind the city’s most beloved buildings. For a fun, authentic, and delicious experience, this tour hits the mark.

FAQs

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 2 hours, making it an easy addition to a morning or early afternoon.

Where does the tour start?
The meeting point is outside the Old Navy at 708 Robson St, in downtown Vancouver.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket includes a professional guide, three gourmet treats, all taxes and fees, private viewings inside heritage buildings, and entry to Forbidden Vancouver Walking Tours.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the start time.

What if I have dietary restrictions?
The treats may contain common allergens like nuts, gluten, dairy, and eggs. Attendees with allergies should consider this before booking.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children under 10 are not recommended, as the stories and content are geared toward an older audience.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking ahead is recommended to secure your spot, especially since the tour operates with a minimum of 2 guests.

Is there a best time of day to do this tour?
Morning tours are often available and ideal for cooler weather and optimal lighting for photos.

What should I bring?
Bring a fully charged phone for photos and, if needed, a rain jacket or umbrella for unpredictable weather.

In short, this tour is a delightful way to combine Vancouver’s architectural beauty with intriguing stories and top-notch treats. It’s a fantastic choice for those who enjoy a bit of storytelling, a dash of history, and a sweet ending.

You can check if your dates are available here: