Oaxaca City stands out as a top destination for food lovers due to its diverse culinary scene rooted in indigenous traditions and colonial influences. Its bustling markets, street stalls, and vibrant neighborhoods offer authentic flavors you can’t find elsewhere. Among the many ways to explore this food paradise, guided tours make it easier to taste, learn, and appreciate Oaxaca’s unique dishes. The Authentic Oaxaca Cultural Food Tour is a standout, offering a full immersion into local market life, while experiences like the Street Food and Markets Tour highlight Oaxaca’s street food scene. Whether you’re after a quick taste or a comprehensive cultural experience, there’s something here for every food enthusiast.
Quick Overview: The list below covers a variety of tours: from full-day archaeological visits combined with local food tastings, to short market strolls, specialized street-food adventures, and private tastings. Some focus heavily on cultural insights, others emphasize the culinary craft of markets and street vendors. For detailed explorations, check out options like the Monte Alban full-day tour or the Private Oaxaca Street Food Tour. Each offers a different way to experience Oaxaca’s flavors, sights, and stories.
1. AUTHENTIC OAXACA CULTURAL FOOD TOUR, eat like a local
This tour is perfect for those who want to walk and eat their way through Oaxaca’s markets and streets. Over approximately six hours, you’ll sample a wide range of local dishes at recommended stalls and markets, learning about their cultural significance along the way. The tour emphasizes personalized attention in small groups, making it ideal for active travelers comfortable with lots of walking. The guide’s insider knowledge means you’ll visit spots many travelers miss, from local food stalls to hidden alleyway gems. Reviewers consistently praise the tour as a “fun and informational” experience where you try “so many things,” with the guide providing rich cultural context.
Bottom Line: If you’re hungry for authentic food and want to see Oaxaca beyond the usual tourist spots, this tour offers a comprehensive, lively introduction to Oaxacan cuisine.
2. Monte Alban – Full Day Guided Tour with or without Food
This full-day tour combines archaeological exploration at Monte Albán with visits to local craft workshops and a traditional Oaxacan buffet lunch. Starting early, you’ll enjoy cooler, less crowded conditions at Monte Albán, founded around 500 B.C., and learn about the Zapotec civilization. The tour then continues to San Bartolo Coyotepec for black clay pottery demonstrations and Santo Tomás Jalieza for weaving. For around $35, the value is excellent, especially considering the hassle-free transfers and small group setting. Visitors rave about their guide’s knowledge—“very detailed,” “very friendly,” and “funny,” making the history come alive.
Bottom Line: Ideal for history enthusiasts and culture-curious travelers who want a full day of sightseeing combined with local craftsmanship and optional food.
3. Food & Markets Tour
This two-and-a-half-hour tour offers a taste of Oaxaca’s most traditional markets, ideal for those who want a quick but deep dive into local flavors. You’ll sample iconic drinks like El tejate and grasshoppers at Mercado Benito Juarez, then move on to Mercado 20 De Noviembre for roasted meats, tamales, and tlayudas. The guide explains the significance of each dish, making it both a culinary and cultural lesson. With rave reviews praising the “delicious food” and “friendly guide,” this tour is perfect for foodies short on time but eager to understand Oaxaca’s culinary soul.
Bottom Line: Great for first-time visitors wanting an authentic taste of the markets and local snacks in a manageable time.
4. Oaxaca Street Food Tour. Signature Markets Tour
This four-hour adventure takes you into Oaxaca’s most cherished street food spots, including a family-owned taco stand and the famous La Cosecha Organic Food Market. Led by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll taste a wide variety of traditional Oaxacan street foods, from tacos to snacks you can’t find elsewhere. Reviewers describe it as “fantastic,” highlighting how the guide explained each dish’s history and significance. The tour’s focus on local family businesses and personal stories adds an authentic touch that elevates the experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for curious food lovers who want an immersive, storytelling approach to Oaxaca’s street culinary scene.
5. Culture, History and Food in Oaxaca City
This three-hour walking tour combines Oaxaca’s historic sites with tastings of local foods and drinks. Starting at Mercado Benito Juarez, then visiting the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption and other landmarks, it offers a well-rounded cultural experience. The tour includes a chance to try a traditional Zapotec drink, with stops at markets and historic spots. Reviewers note guides like Luis as “charming and knowledgeable,” making this a good choice for travelers wanting a taste of history plus food.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those who want a mix of cultural insights and culinary highlights in a manageable outing.
6. Private Historic City Tour + Street Food of Oaxaca – Best Rated
This personalized three-hour private tour is perfect if you prefer a flexible, intimate experience. Your guide will customize your route based on your interests, taking you to key sites like Santo Domingo and the city’s markets, with plenty of time for tastings. The highlight is the chance to sample many local dishes during the street food segment, with reviews praising the “knowledgeable,” “friendly,” guide and the “delicious” food. It’s an excellent value at $58 per person for those who want a tailored, in-depth experience.
Bottom Line: Ideal for small groups or couples seeking a custom, relaxed exploration of Oaxaca’s sights and flavors.
7. Street Food and 3 Markets Tour, Meat and Veggie Options
For those who love variety, this three-hour tour covers multiple markets with an emphasis on meat and vegetarian options. Led by a local expert, you’ll enjoy tasting different traditional dishes—from smoky meats to seasonal fruits—at Mercado Benito Juarez, Mercado 20 De Noviembre, and Mercado Sanchez Pascuas. Reviewers note it as “worth every penny,” especially appreciating the guide’s flexibility and detailed explanations. This tour suits foodies who want to try a bit of everything in a short time.
Bottom Line: Excellent for adventurous eaters eager to sample a broad spectrum of Oaxacan street food with expert guidance.
8. Secret Food Tours Oaxaca de Juarez in Mexico
This three-hour secret food tour begins at Mercado 20 de Noviembre, focusing on traditional dishes like mole and local market favorites. You’ll pass through Mercado Juarez, sampling quesillo and sweet snacks, then enjoy a traditional pre-Hispanic drink, Tejate. Reviewers praise the “delicious bites” and “informative guides” who share stories behind each dish. The tour’s emphasis on hidden food spots makes it a favorite for those who want to go beyond the tourist path.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers looking for an insider’s culinary journey into Oaxaca’s lesser-known food spots.
9. Private Oaxaca Street Food Tour – Best Rated
This intimate, two-hour private tour offers a relaxed way to explore the city’s vibrant street food scene. Led by a friendly guide, you’ll visit Mercado Benito Juarez and Mercado 20 de Noviembre, tasting multiple local dishes. Reviewers highlight the guide’s excellent English and how the tour feels personalized. The focus on local markets and authentic flavors makes it a top choice for small groups or couples wanting a flexible, private experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who prefer a shorter, customizable tour with a personal touch.
10. Oaxaca Central de Abastos Market Food Tour
This four-hour excursion takes you into the largest and most authentic local market, Central de Abastos, away from the tourist crowds. Led by Daniela, you’ll taste pulque, tepache, and other traditional drinks, alongside regional foods. Reviewers mention the guide’s professionalism and thoughtful approach. It’s ideal for those wanting a deep dive into local market life and authentic food sampling.
Bottom Line: Best suited for adventurous eaters eager to experience Oaxaca’s everyday food culture.
11. Private Secret Food Tour of Oaxaca de Juarez in Mexico
This exclusive, three-hour private tour is a luxury option for serious food lovers. Starting at Mercado 20 de Noviembre, you’ll try two types of mole, then visit Mercado Juarez for quesillo and sweet treats. The tour concludes in the Zocalo with Tejate. Reviewers find it “very engaging,” with guides sharing personal stories and local tips. The high price reflects the exclusive nature, but the tailored experience makes it worthwhile.
Bottom Line: Ideal for food connoisseurs seeking a bespoke, intimate culinary adventure.
12. Flavors, colors and culture: Crafts, food and Mezcal EN Oaxaca
This five-and-a-half-hour tour combines mezcal tasting, textile workshops, and food experiences. Visiting Teotitlán del Valle for wool rugs, then sampling pre-Hispanic foods and mezcal in Santiago Matatlán, it offers a comprehensive cultural and culinary package. Reviewers mention “unlimited mezcal” as a highlight. The blend of craft, food, and drink makes it perfect for those wanting a multi-sensory experience.
Bottom Line: Suitable for travelers interested in Oaxaca’s artisan traditions alongside its food and mezcal.
13. Taco Tour in Oaxaca: delicious street food by bike
This one-and-a-half-hour bike tour combines physical activity with tasting Oaxaca’s best tacos. Led by a local, you’ll explore neighborhoods, visit family-run stands, and learn about traditional taco-making. It appeals to those who want active fun coupled with authentic bites.
Bottom Line: Excellent for active travelers who want to combine sightseeing, exercise, and delicious street tacos.
14. Tour of the Oaxaca Food Market
This three-hour guided tour explores the heart of Oaxaca’s food scene at Mercado de Abastos. You’ll try tamales, quesadillas, mezcal, and seasonal fruits, all while learning about local food traditions. Reviewers highlight the passionate guides and the chance to see daily market life up close.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting an authentic, in-depth market experience.
15. Tasty Street Food walking tour Oaxaca
Led by a passionate culinary storyteller, this two- to three-hour tour walks through Oaxaca’s streets tasting fruit vinegar dishes, tacos, and local drinks. It’s an informal, relaxed way to explore the city’s flavors with stories behind each stop. Reviewers enjoyed the personal narratives and the chance to taste specialty foods not easily found on their own.
Bottom Line: Great for curious travelers who want a personal, narrative-driven food adventure.
$100.31 per person
16. Oaxaca Food Tour with a Passionate Local, Carlos
This four-hour tour is led by Carlos, a local proud of Oaxaca’s culinary reputation. It takes you to hidden gems and local producers, sharing stories and sampling staples like tortillas, coffee, and street snacks. Reviewers mention Carlos’s enthusiasm and how it made the experience memorable.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want an authentic, local perspective on Oaxaca’s food scene.
$146.00 per person
How to Choose the Right Food Tour in Oaxaca City
When selecting a tour, consider your budget, available time, and specific interests. If you’re pressed for time but want a quick taste of markets, Food & Markets Tour offers a solid introduction. For those craving an in-depth cultural experience, Monte Alban combines archaeology and cuisine, while Secret Food Tours reveal hidden culinary spots. If you prefer a private, customized adventure, the Private Oaxaca Street Food Tour is your best bet.
Booking early is wise, especially during peak travel seasons, to secure your preferred dates and guides. For a more active experience, the Bike Taco Tour offers a fun way to combine sightseeing and tasting.
Oaxaca’s food scene is diverse and lively, offering options from quick market tastings to full-day archaeological plus culinary adventures. For a balanced experience, try mixing a cultural tour with a street food walk — like pairing the Authentic Oaxaca Cultural Food Tour with the Signature Markets Tour. No matter your preference, booking early ensures you won’t miss out on discovering Oaxaca’s delicious secrets.