The 15 Top City Tours In Oaxaca De Juarez: Which Is Best?

Oaxaca De Juarez is a city that pulses with color, history, and flavors. Its narrow streets, bustling markets, and colonial architecture create a lively atmosphere that’s perfect for exploring on foot, bike, or by bus. What makes Oaxaca truly stand out for city tours is its blend of vibrant traditions and hidden corners that you won’t see from a car or a typical tourist bus. Whether it’s riding through the city on a bike with a local guide or discovering its art and markets on foot, every angle reveals something new and authentic. We especially like the Bike Tour with a professional guide because it combines exercise, cultural insights, and a chance to create your own engraving art in an optional workshop. It’s a dynamic way to cover a lot of ground while engaging your senses.

For those seeking a more traditional approach, the Guided City Walking Tour offers a balanced mix of history and flavors, including visits to Santo Domingo and local markets. If you prefer to see the city from a moving perspective, the Colonial City Bus Tour provides a quick overview of Oaxaca’s most important landmarks. And if you’re interested in exploring beyond the city, the day trip to Mitla and a Mezcal Factory offers fascinating archaeological and tasting experiences. Whichever style suits your interests, you’ll find options that highlight Oaxaca’s colorful streets, lively markets, and centuries-old traditions.

Quick Overview

Our list covers a variety of tour types to suit different preferences and schedules. For active explorers, the Bike Tour with a professional guide blends sightseeing with fun and creativity. History lovers will appreciate the Oaxaca and its colors: Walking City Tour and the Oaxaca: Oaxaca City Beyond the Surface Walking Tour, both offering in-depth insights into Oaxaca’s most iconic spots. Food and drink enthusiasts can enjoy the New Friends and Mezcal Tasting Deluxe or the Private City Tour with a local food buffet. For a brief glimpse, the Oaxaca: City Tour by bus is perfect for a quick orientation. And if you want to capture the city’s beauty on camera, the Photo Tour of the City is a great option. Below, we explore each tour in detail so you can find the best fit for your trip.

1. Oaxaca City: Bike Tour with Professional Guide+Art workshop

At number one, this bike tour stands out for its energetic pace and culture. Riding with a local guide, you’ll visit key sites like the Panteon General and the Basílica de Nuestra Señora de la Soledad, covering more ground than walking. What sets this tour apart is the optional art workshop, where you can create your own engraved art piece, adding a personal touch to your Oaxaca experience. The tour lasts between 2 to 4 hours, making it flexible for different schedules, and the reviews highlight its engaging guide and fun atmosphere, with a 4.8/5 rating from 16 reviews.

Expect to see landmarks and neighborhoods like Barrio de Jalatlaco and El Llano, with plenty of photo stops and local snacks included. The active element makes it perfect for travelers who want a lively way to explore while learning about Oaxaca’s traditions and history. The combination of sightseeing, cultural learning, and creativity offers excellent value at $38 per person.

Bottom Line: Ideal for active travelers wanting a mix of culture, history, and art, all delivered with enthusiasm and local expertise.

2. Oaxaca: Guided City Walking Tour

Coming in at number two, this guided walking tour provides a leisurely, yet comprehensive look at Oaxaca’s highlights. For $46, you’ll explore Santo Domingo Temple, the bustling markets, and the iconic tourist walkway, all with the benefit of a knowledgeable guide. The 4-hour duration allows enough time to soak in the atmosphere while avoiding tour fatigue. With a 4.6/5 rating from 10 reviews, visitors appreciate the mix of historical facts and local stories, making it a well-rounded experience.

This tour is especially suitable for those who prefer walking and want to enjoy the city’s architecture and local culture. It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy tasting local food and discovering artisans’ markets along the way. The guided approach ensures you won’t miss hidden details, and the price offers good value considering the depth of experience.

Bottom Line: A great choice for those who want a relaxed but insightful overview, combining history, markets, and local flavors.

3. Oaxaca and its colors: Walking City Tour

This walking tour is all about appreciating Oaxaca’s vibrant visual charm. For $39, you’ll stroll down Macedonio Alcala, the city’s main street, and visit the two most important markets. The tour highlights the city’s colorful architecture and the stunning Santa Catalina convent. It’s a compact 3-hour experience with a perfect rating of 5/5 from just 2 reviews, indicating a personalized and engaging journey.

The focus on architecture and markets makes this tour ideal for travelers eager to see the city’s lively street life and religious sites up close. It’s particularly good for those who want a short but rich exposure to Oaxaca’s artistic and culinary traditions. Expect to take plenty of photos and gain a deeper understanding of the city’s historic layers.

Bottom Line: Perfect for short stays, with a focus on visual beauty and lively markets.

4. Oaxaca: Oaxaca City Beyond the Surface Walking Tour

At number four, this hidden gems tour offers a 2-hour walk through lesser-known neighborhoods and markets. Guided by a local who is deeply connected to the community, you’ll uncover authentic Oaxaca away from the usual tourist spots. The single review gives it a perfect 5/5 score, emphasizing the personal touch and insightful commentary.

This tour is ideal for travelers interested in local life and undiscovered sights. It’s a short, affordable option ($22) that provides a genuine feel for the city’s diverse cultural fabric. You’ll visit neighborhoods and markets not listed in typical guides, making this perfect for repeat visitors or those craving a more intimate experience.

Bottom Line: Best suited for those looking to experience Oaxaca’s everyday life and authentic charm beyond the typical tour routes.

5. From Oaxaca: City, Mitla, and Mezcal Factory Tour

This full 8-hour tour offers a comprehensive day trip combining archaeology and mezcal tasting, two of Oaxaca’s top attractions. For $53 per person, you’ll visit the Mitla archaeological site, admire the El Tule Tree, and learn about mezcal production at a local factory. Reviews are positive, emphasizing the value and the chance to see impressive ruins and learn mezcal’s secrets.

The highlight is the blend of cultural and sensory experiences—ancient ruins with a modern craft. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a deep dive into Oaxaca’s history and tradition without sacrificing comfort. The tour’s length and inclusiveness provide good value, especially for those eager to see beyond the city.

Bottom Line: Ideal for history buffs and spirits enthusiasts wanting a full-day adventure that combines archaeology with mezcal mastery.

6. Oaxaca: Colonial City Bus Tour

This one-hour bus tour is a quick way to get an overview of Oaxaca’s main landmarks, including important buildings and neighborhoods like Soledad and Las Chinas. Priced at just $5, it’s an affordable introduction, though its 3.6/5 rating suggests it’s more a snapshot than an in-depth experience.

It’s suitable for travelers with limited time or those who want a visual orientation before exploring on their own. The convenience of sitting and viewing from the bus makes it perfect for first-timers or families needing a quick overview.

Bottom Line: A budget-friendly, fast introduction—best for those on a tight schedule or first-time visitors.

7. Oaxaca: Photo Tour of the City

This photo-focused tour for $38 is designed for shutterbugs wanting to capture Oaxaca’s essence. In just 1 hour, you’ll photograph landmarks like Santo Domingo and the city’s stone cross, guided by a local with an eye for the perfect shot. The reviews are mixed but generally positive, with an emphasis on the quality of the photos and the walk along the tourist walkway.

Ideal for travelers eager to document their trip with professional or curated photos. The short duration makes it a great add-on or quick activity for photography enthusiasts.

Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want to return home with high-quality images of Oaxaca’s best sights.

8. From Oaxaca City: Puerto Escondido Freediving Experience

This full-day freediving experience takes you from Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido, combining scenic travel, breathing techniques, and guided immersion from a boat. Priced at $272 per person, it’s the most specialized experience on our list. While no reviews are available, the focus on learning freediving in a safe environment makes it appealing for adventure and water sports fans.

Travelers should be comfortable with water and looking for a unique, active experience. It includes scenic views, a food tour of La Punta, and a chance to master a challenging sport while enjoying the coastal scenery.

Bottom Line: Best suited for active, water-loving travelers seeking a full-day adventure beyond the city.

9. From Oaxaca: City Tour and Art Tour in Oaxaca

This 4-hour tour for up to 2 people combines city exploration with art appreciation. Walking through Oaxaca’s streets, you’ll see murals and visit the Cerro de Fortin viewpoint. It’s a personalized experience, ideal for art lovers and small groups, with no rating but promising a rich culture.

Perfect for those who enjoy discovering local art scenes and scenic overlooks while walking through historic neighborhoods. It offers a more intimate and artistic perspective of Oaxaca.

Bottom Line: A great choice for art enthusiasts wanting a private, tailored experience.

10. New Friends and Mezcal Tasting Deluxe in Oaxaca city!

At number ten, this walking tour with mezcal tastings offers a social, flavorful experience. Starting at Plaza Cruz de Piedra, you’ll visit three mezcalerias, tasting spirits and learning their stories over 2.5 hours. Priced at $71, it’s a small-group activity that’s perfect for mingling and discovering Oaxaca’s mezcal culture.

The tour emphasizes local knowledge and tasting, making it ideal for travelers interested in Oaxaca’s famous spirit and wanting to meet new people. It’s a balanced mix of walking, tasting, and storytelling.

Bottom Line: Best for social travelers and mezcal aficionados interested in authentic spirits.

11. Oaxaca : City Tour

This straightforward city tour for $27 offers a solid introduction to Oaxaca’s main sights in 4 hours. Covering essential landmarks and cultural sites, it’s suitable for travelers on a budget or with limited time. The lack of reviews makes it a more general option, but the focus on highlights ensures a good overview for first-timers.

Ideal for those who want a quick, economical way to get familiar with the city’s key places, especially if they plan to explore independently afterward.

Bottom Line: A budget-friendly, no-nonsense way to get acquainted with Oaxaca’s core highlights.

12. Oaxaca City: Walking tour with local product tasting

This 4-hour walking experience costs $87 and combines cultural insights with local food tastings, including chocolate, cheese, and sweets. Starting at C. de Manuel Fernández Fiallo, you’ll explore markets, the Cathedral, and learn about Tomb 7. It’s perfect for foodies who want to combine sightseeing with tasting Oaxaca’s culinary treasures.

The personalized guide and local product focus make this a great choice for travelers seeking an interactive, flavorful experience. It blends history, culture, and gastronomy seamlessly.

Bottom Line: For food lovers wanting a detailed, guided tasting walk through Oaxaca’s culinary scene.

13. Oaxaca: Mezcaleria in the City Walking Tour

This 2-hour mezcal-focused tour explores Oaxaca’s rich spirit history, taking you into local mezcalerias. Priced at $60, it promises an immersive experience where you’ll learn about mezcal’s cultural significance and become a kind of body and soul mezcal expert.

Ideal for spirits connoisseurs or travelers wanting a deep dive into mezcal’s artistry, with a focus on storytelling and tasting. It’s a more specialized option for those who want to go beyond just drinking.

Bottom Line: Perfect for spirits lovers eager to understand and taste Oaxaca’s iconic mezcal culture.

14. Oaxaca: Monte Alban & City of Oaxaca Private Tour

This private 8-hour tour offers an exclusive visit to Monte Albán, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the city’s architectural highlights. For $31,326 per person, it’s a premium experience with personalized attention, ideal for travelers who want a thorough, comfortable exploration of Oaxaca’s archaeology and urban charm.

Expect to see impressive ruins and enjoy the scenic beauty of the surrounding landscape. It’s best suited for those who value privacy and a tailored itinerary.

Bottom Line: For travelers seeking a comprehensive, private cultural and archaeological experience, with the flexibility to customize.

15. Oaxaca: Private City Tour with Local Food Buffet

Last but not least, this private walking tour showcases Oaxaca’s main sights followed by a local food buffet. At $256 per person, it offers a personalized and flavorful way to explore, including visits to the Zócalo and Santo Domingo, with hotel pickup and drop-off included.

Ideal for travelers who want an intimate, guided experience combined with delicious food. The private setting makes it perfect for couples, families, or small groups wanting a relaxed, educational, and tasty adventure.

Bottom Line: Best for those wanting a bespoke tour with a local touch and savory highlights of Oaxaca.

How to Choose the Right Tour for You

When selecting a city tour in Oaxaca, consider your budget, interests, and available time. If you’re active and want to see a lot in a short period, the Bike Tour with an art workshop is excellent. For history and culture, the walking tours, especially the Beyond the Surface option, provide depth and authenticity. Food and drink lovers should not miss the mezcal tasting tours, which highlight Oaxaca’s world-famous spirit. If you have more time and prefer personalized attention, the private tours offer a tailored experience, often with the chance to combine multiple interests. Remember to book early, especially for popular tours or peak seasons, to secure your spot.

Final Thoughts

Oaxaca De Juarez offers an impressive range of ways to see and taste its many charms. From energetic bike rides to intimate private tours, there’s something for every type of traveler. For an active, culturally rich day, the Bike Tour with a guide and art workshop is a standout. If you prefer leisurely exploration, the Guided City Walking Tour hits the sweet spot. And for those eager to savor Oaxaca’s famous mezcal, the mezcal tasting tours deliver both education and enjoyment.

No matter your style or budget, booking early and choosing the right experience will ensure you leave Oaxaca with lasting memories—and plenty of photos to prove it.