Oaxaca City offers a vibrant mix of colonial architecture, indigenous traditions, and lively street art, making it a prime destination for anyone interested in exploring Mexico’s cultural roots. With its compact historic center and surrounding villages, Oaxaca is perfect for walking, biking, and tasting history through food and crafts. We especially love tours that combine storytelling with hands-on experiences, like the Private Historic City Tour + Street Food, which pairs history with culinary delights. Whether you’re marveling at ancient ruins, admiring colorful murals, or sampling authentic mezcal, these tours reveal what makes Oaxaca so uniquely fascinating.
Quick Overview: Our list features a variety of guided walking, biking, and private tours in Oaxaca—each focusing on different facets of its past and present. From self-paced bike rides exploring local neighborhoods to full-day food adventures supporting indigenous communities, there’s something for every traveler. We’ve included tours that emphasize art, archaeology, food, and local culture, with reviews and details to help you decide. Now, let’s explore the top options.
1. Bicycle Tour through Oaxaca learning about its Urban Art and History
At number 1, this 2-hour bicycle tour is a lively way to see Oaxaca’s street art and learn about its social history. The tour covers iconic neighborhoods and murals, like those in the colorful Jalatlaco area, famous for its vivid murals about Día de los Muertos. Riders visit Old Xochimilco streets, explore the Cerro del Fortín view, and get a glimpse of local life. The guide emphasizes the social importance of the city’s art and architecture, making it perfect for those who want a fast, fun overview with some physical activity. With a perfect 5.0 rating from 55 reviews, visitors love how the guide shares insightful stories while keeping the pace lively. The tour is suitable for active travelers looking for a quick yet comprehensive introduction to Oaxaca’s urban art scene and architecture.
Bottom Line: A fun, energetic way to get your bearings and see Oaxaca’s colorful murals and historic neighborhoods in a short time.
2. Culture, History and Food in Oaxaca City
This 3-hour walking tour takes your appreciation of Oaxaca to the next level by combining history, local traditions, and regional cuisine. Starting at the stunning Santo Domingo, the tour moves through vibrant markets, such as Mercado Benito Juarez, where you’ll see the city’s bustling food scene. You’ll also visit Juarez El Llano Park and witness a traditional parade if timing aligns. Sampling local drinks and dishes, like Oaxaca’s famous mezcal and street tacos, makes it a sensory-rich experience. Guides share stories about the city’s cultural significance, adding depth to your visit. Priced at $60 per person, the tour’s reviews rave about the knowledgeable guide and immersive atmosphere. It’s ideal for travelers who want a balanced mix of sightseeing, cultural insights, and authentic food.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded tour that captures Oaxaca’s essence through its sights, sounds, and flavors.
3. Private Historic City Tour + Street Food of Oaxaca – Best Rated
For those seeking a personalized experience, this 3-hour private walking tour is highly rated and focuses on historic landmarks and street food. Your guide will start at the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption, then take you to the impressive Santo Domingo church, and end with a tasting session at Mercado 20 de Noviembre. The highlight is sampling a variety of local dishes, from memelas to authentic tacos, while hearing stories behind their cultural significance. The tour’s flexibility makes it a great choice for couples or small groups wanting a tailored experience. Guests appreciate the guide’s friendliness and knowledge, and the chance to explore at your own pace. Priced at $58 per person, this tour offers excellent value for a memorable, intimate exploration.
Bottom Line: Perfect for food lovers and history buffs wanting a flexible, private experience.
4. Oaxaca city bike ride – History & traditions
This 2.5-hour guided bike ride is the best way to see the city’s most iconic sites while engaging with its traditions. Starting at the General Cemetery, you’ll explore vibrant neighborhoods like San Matias Jalatlaco, famous for its murals, and visit Parque Juarez El Llano for a quick snack. Along the route, your guide shares stories about the city’s history and cultural practices. Stops at Los Arquitos de Xochimilco and the Santo Domingo church give you a chance to admire architecture and learn about local customs. The bike ride is rated 5.0 from 20 reviews, with visitors praising the knowledgeable guide and the leisurely pace suitable for most fitness levels. The tour offers a fantastic overview of Oaxaca’s past and present in a lively, active format.
Bottom Line: A great way to cover multiple neighborhoods quickly and learn about Oaxaca’s traditions while getting some exercise.
5. Full-Day Gastronomic & Cultural Tour in Oaxaca
If you’re serious about food, this 9-hour tour offers a deep dive into Oaxacan cuisine and indigenous culture. Starting with a trip to Teotitlán del Valle, you’ll visit local artisans weaving traditional rugs, then enjoy a traditional breakfast. Moving to Tlacolula market, you’ll indulge in tacos and other regional specialties, supported by visits to indigenous communities where food and crafts are still made in traditional ways. This tour emphasizes supporting local economies and authentic experiences. The guide shares insights into the cultural significance of each dish and craft, making it ideal for foodies and culturally curious travelers. At roughly $300 per group, it’s a premium experience, but the depth of immersion justifies the price.
Bottom Line: For travelers wanting a comprehensive, culturally rich food experience that supports local communities.
6. Artisanal Mezcal Culture Tour for Tasting and History
This 6-7 hour tour offers an in-depth look at mezcal’s history and production. Visiting Santiago Matatlán, known as “Mezcal’s World Capital,” you’ll meet the Hernandez family, who have preserved mezcal-making traditions since the 19th century. The tour includes walking through agave fields, visiting the palenque (distillery), and tasting a variety of mezcals. You’ll learn to distinguish different types and hear stories about the cultural importance of mezcal in Oaxaca. It’s a perfect choice for spirit enthusiasts interested in the craft and history of one of Mexico’s most iconic drinks. Rated 5.0 from 3 reviews, this tour provides a comprehensive, immersive experience.
Bottom Line: A must for lovers of spirits and traditional craft, offering a full day of tasting, learning, and cultural appreciation.
7. Historical Tour in Teotitlan del Valle
This 6-hour private tour focuses on Teotitlán del Valle, famous for its wool weaving and Zapotec traditions. The tour includes a visit to the community market, a walk through the streets, and visits to weaving workshops. Learning about the community’s ancient craft and exploring its scenic landscapes makes this ideal for those interested in indigenous arts and sustainable traditions. The guide helps you understand how traditions are passed down through generations. With only 2 reviews, it’s a quieter, more intimate experience for those wanting to see authentic local life outside the city.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers keen on indigenous crafts and rural culture.
8. Street Art and Historic City Biking Tour
This 2.5-hour bike tour highlights Oaxaca’s public art and historic sites. It’s designed to raise awareness about bike culture while showcasing murals, plazas, and architectural landmarks. Starting at San Matias Jalatlaco and looping through Parque Juarez and Conzatti Garden, you’ll pass by important sites like the Xochimilco Arches. The tour benefits from a socially conscious angle, supporting local community initiatives. Visitors appreciate the casual pace and the chance to see lesser-known parts of the city. Rated 5.0 from 1 review, it’s an excellent choice for environmentally-minded travelers eager to combine history and social themes.
Bottom Line: A unique blend of culture, social awareness, and active exploration.
$45.00 per person
9. Tour of the historic downtown markets of Oaxaca
This 4-hour culinary tour takes you into Oaxaca’s most authentic markets, including Mercado 20 de Noviembre and Mercado Benito Juarez. Led by a local expert, you’ll sample regional dishes, learn about traditional ingredients, and see how local vendors prepare their products. It’s an ideal choice for food lovers interested in cultural gastronomy. With a 5.0 rating from one review, the focus on real, everyday food makes it a practical experience for those wanting to eat and learn at the same time.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want to taste Oaxaca’s daily life and culinary traditions firsthand.
$34.76 per person
10. Private Tour: World Heritage Sites, UNESCO Monte Alban & City of Oaxaca
This 8-hour private experience brings you to Monte Alban, one of Mexico’s most striking archaeological sites, with a guide who shares detailed insights into the Zapotec civilization. Afterwards, explore Oaxaca’s UNESCO-listed city with visits to the cathedral, Santo Domingo, and local markets. The personalized nature of this tour means you can customize time at each site, ideal for history enthusiasts and those seeking a deeper understanding. The guide’s in-depth knowledge ensures a meaningful visit, making it a worthwhile splurge at $199 per person.
Bottom Line: An in-depth, flexible exploration suited for history buffs and culture seekers wanting a private, tailored experience.
11. Historical and Cultural Walking Tour of Oaxaca
This 2-hour walk covers key landmarks like San Matías Jalatlaco, Paseo Juárez, and the Xochimilco Arches, giving a quick but comprehensive introduction to Oaxaca’s historic heart. While reviews are scarce, the route’s focus on architecture, art, and local stories makes it suitable for first-time visitors. The short duration fits well into a busy itinerary, perfect for those who want a quick overview without a full day commitment.
Bottom Line: A brief, insightful introduction for first timers who want a taste of Oaxaca’s history and architecture.
$41.68 per person
12. Monte Albán Bike Tour: history, culture, and scenery
This 6-hour guided bike tour combines archaeological exploration of Monte Albán with visits to Santa María Atzompa and the Ex-Hacienda de San José. Starting early, you’ll enjoy scenic rural landscapes while learning about the Zapotec civilization, traditional pottery, and colonial architecture. The guided approach ensures you understand the significance of each site, and the biking adds an active element to your culture. Although reviews are pending, the itinerary’s depth and scenery promise an engaging day for active history lovers.
Bottom Line: An active, comprehensive tour ideal for travelers eager to combine archaeology, rural scenery, and traditional crafts.
$144.64 per person
13. Oaxaca City Private Tour – Culture, History, and Tastes
Finally, this 4-hour private tour lets you explore Oaxaca’s key sites, including El Carmen, Benito Juárez House, and Santo Domingo church, with personalized attention. The focus on culture, history, and local flavors makes it perfect for those wanting a flexible, intimate experience. The guide helps you understand the stories behind each landmark and guides you through local markets for tasting sessions. At $323 per person, it’s best suited for travelers who value privacy and tailored experiences.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want a customizable, in-depth exploration with comfort and flexibility.
$323.42 per person
How to Choose the Right Tour
Choosing among these options depends on your interests, budget, and activity level. If you love active exploration and want a quick overview, the Bicycle Tour through Oaxaca learning about its Urban Art and History is a top pick. For food lovers, the Full-Day Gastronomic & Cultural Tour offers a deep dive into local flavors. Those seeking a more personalized experience should consider the Private Historic City Tour + Street Food, which balances history with culinary delights.
Think about your fitness level—bike and walking tours require some stamina—while private tours offer flexibility if you prefer a relaxed pace. Book early, especially for popular tours like the private experiences, to ensure availability.
Oaxaca’s mix of archaeology, art, food, and indigenous traditions means there’s a tour suited to almost every traveler. Whether you choose a guided bike ride, a food-focused day, or a private exploration, you’ll leave with a richer understanding of this fascinating city. For a truly memorable visit, pick the experience that matches your interests and travel style—then get ready to enjoy Oaxaca’s warm, colorful, and complex culture.