Oaxaca
Essential Oaxaca: Famous Sites & Local Stories
Iconic Sights & Hidden Gems • 6 hours
5
(73)
Essential Oaxaca: Famous Sites & Local Stories
Begin with Oaxaca’s icons, then wander markets and painted streets in a day that balances landmarks with local life.
What makes this experience special
Your host shapes the day around you, beginning with Oaxaca’s landmarks before guiding you into colorful neighborhoods and markets most visitors miss.
Key highlights
- A full day tailored to your pace and interests
- Begin with Santo Domingo and Oaxaca’s main square
- Discover markets where locals shop every day
- Explore colorful neighborhoods like Jalatlaco and Xochimilco
- Stories and stops you’d miss without local insight
- Balance iconic sights with quieter streets and corners
- End the day in a way that feels right for you
What to know before you go
Here’s everything you need to know before your day unfolds.
6 hours
Fully tailored to your preferences
English Other languages may be requested
Walking experience may use public transport for long distances
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 not included
Food, drinks and shopping expenses
Transport fares or attraction entry fees
Meeting point
Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzmán, C. Macedonio Alcalá s/n, RUTA INDEPENDENCIA, Centro, 68000 Oaxaca de Juárez, Oax., MexicoCancellation
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experienceWhat to bring
How your day could unfold
A flexible, unscripted experience designed entirely around your interests. Your host will adapt the day based on what excites you mostHere’s what your experience could look like
These are just suggestions from our hosts to inspire your day. Your host will tailor the experience to suit your interests and tastes
Meeting point
Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzmán, C. Macedonio Alcalá s/n, RUTA INDEPENDENCIA, Centro, 68000 Oaxaca de Juárez, Oax., Mexico
1. Select a date
2. Select start time
3. Tailor your experience
Answer a few quick questions to help your host craft the perfect day tailored to you.
1. What’s your preferred hosting style?
2. How would you like the pace of your day?
3. What’s your walking comfort level?
4. Are you celebrating something special?
Real Stories, Real Connections
See our hosts and guests creating memories
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Stories and Smiles Beneath Stained Glass Beauty
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A Warm Welcome to Vibrant Mexico
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17,500+ 5-Star Reviews and Counting
Trusted and recommended by travelers worldwide, including 99% on Google and TripAdvisor.
recommended by 99% of travelers on google
recommended by 99% of travelers on tripadvisor
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What travelers think of our Mexico experiences
Sarah
Sep 2025
We had an awesome 6 hour tour with Marisol! We had a 28 hour stopover in Mexico City and wanted to see as much as we could during the day. The tour is extremely customizable and we were able to select everything we wanted to do and see based on our interests. We even needed to make a quick stop to the doctor and pharmacy and Marisol helped us with that and we greatly appreciated her kindness and patience. Marisol was very knowledgeable and her passion for her culture and hometown really shows. We ate some amazing street food and other treats and also got to see a lot of things during our one day in Mexico City. We wouldn’t hesitate to book this tour again and I highly recommend Marisol as a guide.
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Stacey
Sep 2025
From the moment I met Ninelth it has been exceptional. From the notes before we met, to the personalized tour to the understanding that is was only 1 not two but from our beginning I learned so much about Mexico City and Mexico that I found myself teaching others as I moved through the city. I consider this one of my best tours ever taken in the world.
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Alex
Aug 2025
Wonderful introduction to Mexico City. Oskar was an incredible guide - he was so knowledgeable and incorporated history and current events throughout the tour. In addition to the downtown highlights, we visited places that I would never have found on my own - hidden murals, galleries, libraries doubling as art installations, convents, shops, etc. highly recommend Oskar!
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Keith
Jul 2025
Lando is an absolutely amazing guide! His love of Mexico City and its people, his knowledge of its history and culture, and his true joy in sharing all of this are both amazing and so special. He is absolutely worthy of our highest recommendation. Totally worth the price, and 7 times that!
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Oleh
Jul 2025
It was a fantastic and well-tailored tour with Adriana. She immersed us in the picturesque journey of Mexican history and made us experience the vibe of local culture. We enjoyed it so much!
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Bryan
May 2025
Alejandro was incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about Mexico City. We began with the history of the city, beginning at ground zero (where the historical, pre-Colombian) beginnings of the city origins. We visited an archeological museum, then Alejandro, went the extra mile to review additional archeological findings around town. Next, we walked through the colonial historical neighborhoods, and markets, all the while getting more architectual knowledge along the way. Alejandro was especially effective in connecting the historial city to its evolution into the modern city we see today, including the historical persons involved. Extremely thorough and comprehensive, I am so much smarter now, then I was this morning, before I went on the tour with Alejandro. Bring comfortable walking shoes - you'll get plenty of steps in!
Show moreFAQs
Your questions, answered
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.