Oaxaca City Tour: History, Culture & Colorful Markets

5.0
(6 reviews)
Oaxaca City, Mexico

3 hours (approximately)
Pickup offered
Offered in: English and 1 more

Discover Oaxaca's colonial heritage and vibrant traditions on a journey through its historic center. Start at the main square and admire the magnificent Santo Domingo Temple, once part of a Dominican convent and now home to a remarkable museum of colonial and pre-Columbian art, including treasures from Monte Albán.

Walk along the charming pedestrian tourist walkway, lined with elegant green quarry-stone buildings, until you reach the Cathedral, built by Dominican monks in the 16th century. Continue to the Macedonio Alcalá Theater and admire its beautiful architecture.

Then, visit traditional chocolate mills to discover the ingredients and craftsmanship behind Oaxaca's beloved chocolate drink. Finish at a bustling local market, where colorful stalls showcase regional products and centuries-old trading traditions dating back to pre-Hispanic times.

What's Included

Professional local guide
Hotel pickup (selected hotels only)
Transport by air-conditioned minivan
Food and drinks
Gratuities

Meeting and pickup

Pickup points
You can choose a pickup location at checkout (multiple pickup locations are available).
Pickup details:

The operator will meet you in the lobby of your Hotel/Airbnb; he will ask at the Front desk for your name.
We can pick up in any hotel or Airbnb located in Oaxaca Downtown.

OR
Meeting point
Quinta Real

The operator will meet you in the lobby of your Hotel/Airbnb; he will ask at the Front desk for your name. We can pick up in any hotel or Airbnb located in Oaxaca Downtown.

End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Itinerary

Duration: 3 hours (approximately)
  • 1
    Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzman

    Admire one of Oaxaca's most magnificent examples of colonial architecture, built in the late 16th and early 17th centuries. The Temple of Santo Domingo is renowned for its intricately carved Baroque facade and breathtaking interior, where elaborate gilded reliefs, ornate designs, and beautifully painted figures cover nearly every surface. Discover the artistic details and historical significance of this remarkable landmark.

    25 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    As you walk through the charming streets of Oaxaca's historic center, discover a city rich in history, art, and tradition. Admire the colorful colonial facades, elegant green quarry-stone buildings, lively pedestrian streets, and beautiful architecture that give Oaxaca its distinctive character. Along the way, observe the rhythm of local life, from traditional shops and artisan workshops to inviting cafes and bustling plazas. Your guide will share stories about the city's history, cultural heritage, and traditions, bringing its streets and landmarks to life as you explore one of Mexico's most captivating colonial cities.

    Admission ticket free
  • 2
    Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption

    Visit the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption, an important religious and architectural landmark in Oaxaca's historic center. Serving as the seat of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Antequera, Oaxaca, this historic cathedral has a rich history dating back to the 16th century, when construction began around 1535. Dedicated to Our Lady of the Assumption, it was consecrated on July 12, 1733, and remains an important symbol of Oaxaca's religious and cultural heritage.

    20 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 3
    Teatro Macedonio de Alcala

    Admire the Macedonio Alcalá Theater, one of Oaxaca's most iconic cultural landmarks and one of Mexico's most important theaters. Inaugurated on September 5, 1909, this architectural gem has been a symbol of the city's artistic heritage for over a century. Discover its elegant facade and learn about its enduring role in Oaxaca's rich cultural and artistic life.

    10 minutes • Admission ticket not included
  • 4

    Visit the Ex-Convent of San Pablo, founded in 1529 as the first Dominican convent in Oaxaca. Once an important center for religious instruction and the study of Indigenous languages, this historic complex has undergone centuries of transformations. Carefully restored and reopened in 2011 as the San Pablo Cultural Center, it now celebrates Oaxaca's rich cultural heritage through art, history, exhibitions, and academic activities. Admire its restored colonial architecture, peaceful courtyards, and historic arches while discovering how this remarkable site connects Oaxaca's past with its vibrant cultural life today.

    20 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 5
    Mercado Benito Juarez

    Discover the vibrant flavors and traditions of Oaxaca at a bustling local market. Before exploring the market, visit traditional chocolate mills to learn about the ingredients and preparation methods behind Oaxaca's beloved chocolate drink. Then, wander through colorful stalls offering a variety of regional specialties, including chapulines (toasted grasshoppers), mole, local cheeses, and traditional beverages. You'll also find beautiful handmade crafts, from the famous alebrijes and colorful textiles to leather goods. Immerse yourself in the local culture and discover the flavors, craftsmanship, and traditions that make Oaxaca unique.

    45 minutes • Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Supplied by Encuentro T

Tags

Half-day Tours
Bus Tours
Private and Luxury
Cultural Tours
Historical Tours
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Rating

5.0 Based on 6 6 reviews
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