First Day in Oaxaca – Guided Walking Tour

Oaxaca, MX
100% of travellers recommend this
Excellent (19 reviews)
Self-guided

Included

  • inclusion
    Admission fees
    Admission fee

Excluded

  • exclusion
    Bottled water
    Bottled water
  • exclusion
    Breakfast
    Breakfast
  • exclusion
    Meals
    Meals
  • exclusion
    Lunch
    Lunch

Meeting Point

We will meet right in front of the main entrance of the Church of San Juan de Dios, located next to the 20 de Noviembre Market. The church is easy to recognize and sits on the corner of Aldama Street and 20 de Noviembre Street. Please be there a few minutes early so we can start on time.

Meeting point

C. de Ignacio Aldama 217, OAX_RE_BENITO JUAREZ, Centro, 68000 Oaxaca de Juárez, Oax. , Mexico

End point

End Point

Our tour will finish at the Church of San Matías, located in the heart of the famous neighborhood of Jalatlaco. This charming area is known for its colorful streets, murals, and traditional atmosphere—an ideal spot to continue exploring, take photos, or enjoy a coffee nearby.

Meeting point

Miguel Hidalgo 211, Barrio de Jalatlaco, 68080 Oaxaca de Juárez, Oax. , Mexico

End point

What to expect

1
Mercado 20 De Noviembre

Discover the flavors and traditions of Oaxaca at the famous Mercado 20 de Noviembre. Stroll through colorful aisles filled with aromas of freshly grilled meats in the iconic “Pasillo del Humo,” where tasajo, cecina, and chorizo are cooked over hot coals and served with handmade tortillas and salsas. More than a market, this 19th-century landmark is a living piece of history and one of the best places to experience the authentic soul of Oaxaca.

Duration 20 minutes
2
Mercado Benito Juarez

Experience the vibrant heart of Oaxaca at Mercado Benito Juárez, just steps from the Zócalo. This historic covered market—opened in 1894—buzzes with energy as locals and travelers mingle among stalls brimming with fresh produce, spices, chocolate, mole pastes, cheeses, mezcal, and chapulines (fried grasshoppers). This market isn’t just a stop—it’s an immersive dive into flavor, tradition, and Oaxacan life.

Duration 20 minutes
3
Zocalo

Experience the vibrant heartbeat of Oaxaca at the historic Zócalo (Plaza de la Constitución). Flanked by elegant colonial arcades, the grand Cathedral of Santo Domingo and the Government Palace provide a stunning architectural backdrop. Stroll through the shaded square beneath ancient laurel trees and let the lively melodies of marimba bands and street performers set the mood. The Zócalo is the perfect place to soak in the culture, flavor, and spirit of Oaxaca.

Duration 20 minutes
4
Teatro Macedonio de Alcala

Discover one of Oaxaca’s most iconic cultural landmarks: the Teatro Macedonio Alcalá. Built in 1909 in elegant Art Nouveau and French-influenced style, this architectural gem features a striking green-and-rose cantera façade and a grand Louis XV vestibule with marble stairs and ornate ceilings illuminated by gilded cherubs and allegorical art. Originally a casino and opera house. Today, it hosts world-class performances and honors ethnic and artistic heritage as a vibrant symbol of Oaxaca’s soul.

Duration 20 minutes
5
Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca

Discover the Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzmán, a masterpiece of colonial Baroque architecture in Oaxaca. Built between the 16th and 18th centuries, this majestic church showcases intricate gold leaf altarpieces, ornate ceilings, and a stunning dome adorned with nearly 100 medallions depicting Dominican martyrs. The façade features Santo Domingo and San Hipólito holding a temple beneath the descending Holy Spirit. The adjoining ex-convent, now home to the Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca, houses treasures like the Monte Albán tomb artifacts and the lush Jardín Etnobotánico. This complex offers a profound glimpse into Oaxaca's rich history and spiritual heritage.

Duration 20 minutes
6

Templo de San Matias Jalatlaco

Discover the vibrant Barrio de Jalatlaco, Oaxaca’s first designated “Barrio Mágico.” Established in 1486 by Mexica soldiers, this historic neighborhood boasts cobblestone streets, colonial adobe and cantera houses, and a rich tapestry of art, tradition, and gastronomy. Wander through colorful alleys adorned with murals and papel picado, reflecting the community's deep-rooted cultural identity.

Duration 20 minutes

The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

Additional Information

  • Additional information
    Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Additional information
    No es recomendable para bebés.
  • Additional information
    No es recomendable para personas con movilidad reducida
  • Additional information
    No es recomendable para personas con problemas al caminar.
  • Additional information
    No es recomendable para personas mayores de 65 años de edad.
  • Additional information
    No es recomendable para personas que no puedan estar paradas por periodo de tiempo largo.
  • Additional information
    No es recomendable para personas que tengan problemas en las rodillas
  • Additional information
    No es recomendable para personas que usen bastón
  • Additional information
    Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Additional information
    Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Additional information
    Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Additional information
    Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Additional information
    Service animals allowed
  • Additional information
    Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Provided by Oaxacan Journey

What our experts say

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    Try local delicacies at Mercado 20 Noviembre.
  • icon
    Zócalo is perfect for street performances.
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    Visit Museo de las Culturas for history.
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    Bring a camera for stunning architecture.
  • icon
    Explore Jalatlaco for vibrant murals.

More About this Experience

Introduction

Experience the vibrant soul of Oaxaca with the Oaxaca City Highlights Walking Tour, a three-hour journey through the heart of one of Mexico's most enchanting cities. This immersive tour is not just a stroll; it’s an exploration led by a knowledgeable local guide who brings the city's rich history and culture to life. As you wander through charming, centuries-old streets, you’ll visit iconic spots like the lively Zócalo and the stunning church of Santo Domingo. The tour is designed to engage all your senses, from the vibrant artisan markets bursting with hand-woven textiles and black pottery to the tantalizing local flavors you can sample along the way. Every turn is an invitation to connect with Oaxaca’s unique heritage, making this experience feel like a day spent with a dear friend, discovering hidden gems and beloved traditions.

What to expect?

On the Oaxaca City Highlights Walking Tour, participants can anticipate a delightful blend of cultural insights and personal anecdotes that enrich each stop along the way. Expect to meander through the bustling Mercado 20 de Noviembre, where the air is filled with mouthwatering aromas and the lively sounds of locals enjoying their meals. You will also traverse the historic Zócalo, a vibrant square that serves as the heartbeat of the city, complete with street performers and marimba bands setting the mood. As you explore artisan markets, you’ll discover intricate crafts and can even indulge in optional tastings that showcase the iconic flavors of Oaxaca. With personal tips from the guide, you won’t miss out on the best photo spots or local delicacies, ensuring your experience is both memorable and enriching.

Who is this for?

This walking tour is perfect for anyone with a passion for culture, history, and good food. Whether you’re a first-time visitor eager to soak in the essence of Oaxaca or a seasoned traveler wanting to dig deeper into its artistic and culinary scene, this tour caters to all. Families with children, couples on a romantic getaway, and even solo adventurers will find something to love. The tour is designed to be inclusive, welcoming participants of all physical fitness levels, and is accessible for those with strollers or service animals. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll through history or an in-depth exploration of local life, this tour has something for everyone, making it an enriching experience for all ages.

Why book this?

Booking the Oaxaca City Highlights Walking Tour means stepping into a world filled with color, flavor, and stories that only a local can provide. Unlike generic tours, this experience offers a personal touch, ensuring that each participant leaves with not just knowledge, but also a deeper appreciation for Oaxaca’s rich heritage. The small group size allows for intimate interactions with the guide, fostering a genuine connection to the city. Moreover, the carefully curated itinerary takes you to both well-known landmarks and hidden treasures, making every moment special. This tour stands out for its ability to create lasting memories as you discover the best of Oaxaca, from its historic architecture to its bustling markets. It’s not just a tour; it’s an invitation to become part of the vibrant tapestry that is Oaxaca.

Good to know

When preparing for the Oaxaca City Highlights Walking Tour, it’s beneficial to wear comfortable shoes, as the charming cobblestone streets can be uneven. While the tour includes admission fees to several sites, participants should note that bottled water is not provided, so bringing your own is recommended. The meeting point is conveniently located near the heart of the city, making it easy to access public transportation. This tour is designed to be flexible and accommodating, ensuring that everyone, including families with small children, can participate. Don’t forget your camera, as the picturesque streets and vibrant markets offer countless opportunities for stunning photos. Lastly, the tour wraps up in the colorful neighborhood of Jalatlaco, allowing you to continue your exploration or relax with a coffee in a nearby café.

Reviews

Feedback from past participants of the Oaxaca City Highlights Walking Tour has been overwhelmingly positive, with many praising the engaging storytelling and deep insights provided by the local guide. Travelers have expressed how the tour felt less like a standard sightseeing trip and more like spending time with a knowledgeable friend. Attendees have highlighted the vibrant atmosphere of the artisan markets and the delicious local tastings as definite highlights of their experience. Many have commented on how the tour beautifully balanced history with cultural exploration, making it a favorite among travelers seeking authenticity. Overall, this tour has garnered a reputation for delivering a heartfelt and enriching journey through Oaxaca, leaving participants eager to return and explore more.

Journals from our explorers at this location

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