Oaxaca City Tour: History, Culture & Colorful Markets

5.0 (6 reviews) 3 hours Free cancellation

out of 5

6 reviews

5.0

Oaxaca City Tour: History, Culture & Colorful Markets — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

Teatro Macedonio Alcala — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

About this activity

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.

Half-day Tours Bus Tours Private and Luxury Cultural Tours Historical Tours Short term availability Weather Dependent - Low Agent Low Quality Product

At a glance

Duration: 3 hours
Confirmation: Instant confirmation
Ticket: Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group: Up to 30 people
People per booking: 1–30
Guide: English, Spanish
Operated by: Encuentro T

Ages: Infants (0–2 years) · Children (3–11 years) · Youth (12–17 years) · Adults (18–64 years) · Seniors (65–99 years)

What is included

Included

Included: Professional local guide
Included: Hotel pickup (selected hotels only)
Included: Transport by air-conditioned minivan

Not included

Not included: Food and drinks
Not included: Gratuities

Itinerary

Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzman

25 min

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.
Tour in the historical center of Oaxaca

Passing 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.
Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption

20 min

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.
Teatro Macedonio de Alcala

10 min Admission not included

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.
Stop 5

20 min

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.
Mercado Benito Juarez

45 min

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.

Meeting point and pickup

You can be picked up from your accommodation or go straight to the meeting point.

Meeting point

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

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.

Pickup points

Hotel Casa Divina
Un sueno Valle de Huajes
Hotel Pasaje
Posada Margarita
Casa de las Flores Hotel
Hotel Oaxaca Real
Hotel Las Golondrinas
Suites De La Parra
Casa Catrina hotel boutique
Casa de Siete Balcones
Ebano Hotel Boutique
Villa Maria

and 53 more pickup points

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.

Using your ticket

Comfortable walking shoes are recommended
Bring Sunblock
Please reconfirm with the local service provider prior to travel, or upon arrival at your destination.
Please note that departure times and locations may vary slightly.
Hotel pickups commence approximately 30 - 60 minutes prior to this time, exact pickup time will be advised on reconfirmation.

Times are subject to change due to local traffic conditions.

No need to print your voucher! To help us protect the planet, please show your booking confirmation on your phone. Our operator can locate your reservation by name.