Icons & Secrets

Guide pointing at Templo de Santo Domingo in Oaxaca with two visitors.

Two people walking on a street in Oaxaca, Mexico with mountain background.

Tourists explore a narrow aisle filled with vibrant merchandise in Oaxaca

Two women sitting at a table outside a café in Oaxaca

Two people walking past arched brick walls on a cobblestone street in Oaxaca

Two people sitting on stone steps in front of historic buildings in Oaxaca.

5 (70)

Essential Oaxaca: Famous Sites & Local Stories

6 hours English

5 (70) 100% Personalized

Begin with Oaxaca’s icons, then wander markets and painted streets in a day that balances landmarks with local life.

How It Works

Book your date

Choose your preferred date, start time and group size for your experience.

Share your interests

Complete your personalisation form after booking, for a tailored experience.

Explore with your matched host

We match you with a local host who shapes the route around you.

Experience Overview

Time:

6 hours

What to expect:

Fully tailored to your preferences

Language:

Hosted in English (Other languages may be requested)

Transport Mode:

Walking experience (May use public transport for longer distances)

Meeting point:

Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzmán, C. Macedonio Alcalá s/n, RUTA INDEPENDENCIA, Centro, 68000 Oaxaca de Juárez, Oax., Mexico

Cancellation:

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience

What’s Included:

Tailored itinerary based on your preferences

A knowledgeable host who knows the hidden gems

Flexible start times to fit your day

What’s Excluded:

Food, drinks and shopping expenses

Transport fares or attraction entry fees

Mostly walking, with food, drinks, transport and entry fees paid separately unless stated.

Reviews of Our Oaxaca Experiences

Meeting the people at the market and gong to different establishments.

Luis

Oaxaca

Easy to walk around the areas, shade available for most parts when hot. Alex tailored the sites to suit our interests and had a friendly and relaxed manner. Great communication throughout the booking process.

Ann

Mexico City

Alex was a wonderful, entertaining, deeply knowledgeable, passionate guide. We hit the ground running and he was game with all our ideas. Didn’t even blink when we asked if we could take the subway instead of an Uber to get the full local experience. He showed us to several amazing street taco vendors as well - well off the tourist beaten path. We learned an incredible amount of Mexican history. Alex truly possess a wealth of information about culture, history, architecture, and food. We booked this last minute and really lucked out - it was so much fun and he had interesting commentary everywhere we went. DO NOT MISS THIS - it will lay the foundation of a well-informed trip to Mexico City that every conscientious tourist should partake in.

Joanne

Mexico City

Tony was a very helpful & engaging guide. Besides the major historical spots he introduced us to several more behind the scene places. And he easily accommodated our requested coffee, bathroom & shopping breaks.

Thad

Oaxaca

The tour with Tony was relaxing and informative. He encouraged us to request pauses for food, drinks and shopping whenever we saw a place that caught our interest.

Thad

Oaxaca

We had a great time with Tony and he was very accommodating to our requests. Thx!

Kim

Oaxaca

See all reviews

A possible route, not a fixed script

This sample shows what the experience could include. Your host will shape the route around your interests, pace, weather and plans.

Suggested meeting point

Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzmán, C. Macedonio Alcalá s/n, RUTA INDEPENDENCIA, Centro, 68000 Oaxaca de Juárez, Oax., Mexico

Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzmán

An icon with a different perspective

Essential Oaxaca: Famous Sites & Local Stories

You might start at Oaxaca’s most famous landmark, where your host shares stories that make its grandeur feel personal. Some guests linger in the museum or gardens, others take a quick look before moving toward the streets below.

Zócalo & Cathedral Streets

From grand square to everyday corners

From Santo Domingo, your host could guide you into Oaxaca’s central plaza. Some guests pause at the cathedral façade and arcades, while others prefer slipping quickly into side alleys filled with shops and local routines.

Mercado Benito Juárez

Step into the city’s rhythm

The energy shifts as you move into a market alive with colors, smells, and sounds. You might pause for a snack, browse textiles, or just watch daily life unfold. Some guests stay longer here, others prefer to keep moving into neighborhood streets.

Jalatlaco Neighborhood

Murals, cobbled lanes, and cafés

Your host could lead you into Jalatlaco, one of Oaxaca’s most colorful districts. Some guests stop for photos of its murals, others enjoy time in a small café or peek into artisan workshops. The pace flexes to your style.

Barrio de Xochimilco & Aqueduct

The oldest barrio with local texture

In Xochimilco, Oaxaca’s aqueduct and narrow streets reveal another layer of the city. Guests might step into a workshop, pause for stories of the barrio, or simply stroll the cobbles before closing the day.

Optional Close: Plaza de la Danza or Rooftop Café

A reflective ending to the day

You may finish in a spot that contrasts the busy beginning, a sweeping view from Plaza de la Danza, or a quiet rooftop café. Some guests linger here, others wrap up quickly before heading back into the city.

Oaxaca, Our Guests Way

Here are our guests exploring on a City Unscripted experience.

Sweet Moments and Local Charm

Discovering Heritage and Craftsmanship

Making New Friends in Mexico

A Journey Into Ancient Wonders

Tasting Tradition, One Taco at a Time

Cheers to Culture and Conversation

Exploring With Joy and Curiosity

Connecting Through Art and Architecture

Sharing Stories on the Move

History and Heart in Every Corner

Exploring History Under the Mexican Sun

Discovering Local Life and Hidden Streets

Treasures of Mexican Artistry and Color

Stories and Smiles Beneath Stained Glass Beauty

Cultural Encounters in Mexico’s Sacred Spaces

Night Lights and Lively Mexican Spirit

Timeless Elegance and Mexican Heritage

A Warm Welcome to Vibrant Mexico

Flavors of Mexico: A Feast for the Curious Palate

Your FAQs

Is this a traditional tour or something different?

This isn’t a traditional tour with a fixed script. It’s a fully personalized day shaped around your interests, whether it’s culture, history, neighborhoods, or hidden local spots. Your host is a knowledgeable local, more like a friend showing you their city. It’s flexible, one-on-one, and tailored entirely to you.

How does personalization work?

After booking, you’ll receive a short questionnaire where you can share your interests, travel style, and any must-see spots. Based on that, we’ll match you with a local host who’ll reach out to plan your personalized itinerary.

Can I mix different themes in one experience?

Yes! You can blend food, culture, history, neighborhoods, or even a bit of nightlife if time allows. Just share your interests in the questionnaire, and your host will build the day around them.

Will I know my itinerary in advance?

Yes, you will have the opportunity to chat with your host directly and agree on a plan for the day. However, there’s always room for spontaneity and local surprises!

Can I adjust the plan on the day?

Absolutely. Your host can adjust the itinerary on the day based on your pace, energy, or any new ideas you have. It’s a flexible experience from start to finish.

What should I bring or wear?

Comfortable shoes are best, as you’ll be walking between food stops. Dress for the weather and bring a bit of cash if you'd like to try anything extra beyond the included tastings.

What happens in case of bad weather?

Rain won’t stop your experience—your host will adjust the route if needed, choosing cozy indoor spots or covered food areas. City Unscripted experiences are flexible by design, and your host will make sure it’s just as enjoyable, whatever the weather.

Is this experience suitable for families, solo travelers, seniors, or groups?

Yes! This experience is designed to be flexible and can be tailored to suit families with kids, solo travelers, seniors, or small groups.

Can my host meet me at my accommodation?

Hotel meet-ups are available upon request in central areas. If you're staying outside the city, your host will recommend the best meeting spot and guide you with directions.

Can I change the meeting place?

Yes, you will be in touch with your host before your experience, and you can agree on a different meeting point with them. Your host can meet you anywhere central that’s convenient.

★★★★★

Rajeev

2 July 2026

Amazing time with Hanakosan.

David

Eiko was great showing us great sights and helping guide us through the local bus transportation. We enjoyed our tour.

Kendra

21 June 2026

We had the best day with Benny! He contacted us right after the booking to plan out the day. When our flights were delayed he quickly responded and was flexible to adjust to the new schedule. He was so helpful in navigating the streets while sharing information about the areas. Hoping for another trip soon just so we can book another tour with Benny!