The Top 15 City Tours In Oaxaca De Juarez

Oaxaca De Juarez is a city that buzzes with color, history, and flavor, making it a perfect place to explore through a variety of engaging tours. Whether you prefer pedaling past colonial buildings, wandering through lively markets, or diving into local gastronomy and mezcal culture, Oaxaca offers something for every type of traveler.

We’re particularly fond of the Bike Tour with Art Workshop, which combines active sightseeing with a creative twist, and the Walking City Tour, perfect for those wanting a deep dive into Oaxaca’s landmarks and flavors. Each experience offers a unique way to enjoy this dynamic city, giving you authentic insights and memories.

Quick Overview

Our list features a mix of bike tours, walking explorations, cultural excursions, and even full-day adventures. You’ll find options for short city strolls, art-focused visits, and culinary experiences, all tailored to different interests and budgets.

From the 4.8-star-rated Bike Tour + Art Workshop to the economical Colonial City Bus Tour, each offers something special. Below, we break down each tour to help you pick the right experience for your stay.

1. Oaxaca City: Bike Tour with Professional Guide+Art workshop

This lively bike tour is perfect for those wanting to cover more ground while learning about Oaxaca’s history, traditions, and cultural facts. Starting at Bike Flow Oaxaca, you’ll cycle through landmarks like the Panteon General and Barrio de Jalatlaco, with photo stops and guided commentary.

What makes this tour stand out is the optional art workshop, where you can create your own engraving—an interactive souvenir. Rated 4.8/5 from 16 reviews, it’s a fun way to blend sightseeing with creativity.

The tour lasts 2-4 hours and costs $38 per person, making it an excellent value, especially if you enjoy active exploration and art. The route includes a sunset stop at the Basílica de Nuestra Señora de la Soledad, offering stunning views.

Bottom Line: If you’re up for an energetic, culturally rich experience that ends with a hands-on art activity, this tour is hard to beat.

2. Oaxaca: Guided City Walking Tour

For those who prefer to take things at a slower pace, this 4-hour guided walking tour is ideal. Priced at $46 per person and rated 4.6/5 from 10 reviews, it offers a comprehensive look at Oaxaca’s top sights. Visitors get to explore the iconic Santo Domingo Temple, walk the lively Andador Turístico, and experience local markets bursting with crafts and flavors.

The tour provides plenty of opportunities to enjoy local foods like mole and tlayudas, and soak in the city’s lively atmosphere.

The guide’s insights help uncover hidden stories behind each landmark, making it perfect for first-timers or those who want a detailed overview.

Bottom Line: This tour is best suited for travelers who want a balanced mix of history, culture, and cuisine in a relaxed pace.

3. Oaxaca and its colors: Walking City Tour

Rated a perfect 5/5 from 2 reviews, this 3-hour walking tour emphasizes Oaxaca’s visual vibrancy and architectural beauty. Starting at the main street of Macedonio Alcala, you’ll visit the two most important markets, marvel at the former Santa Catalina convent, and explore the city’s colorful streets. Priced at just $39, it offers a focused exploration of Oaxaca’s history and architecture.

The small group size ensures a personal experience, and the highlights include market visits, with plenty of chances to see local artisans’ work.

Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers interested in architecture and colorful street scenes packed into a short walk.

4. Oaxaca: Oaxaca City Beyond the Surface Walking Tour

At just $22 per person, this 2-hour tour offers a quick but in-depth look at Oaxaca’s lesser-known neighborhoods and hidden gems. Guided by a local who knows the city intimately, you’ll explore sites off the typical tourist trail, gaining authentic insights into Oaxaca’s cultural diversity.

Perfect for travelers short on time but eager to experience the city’s true character, it’s a highly rated way to see the city through a local’s eyes.

Bottom Line: Best for curious travelers wanting a quick, authentic fix of Oaxaca’s vibrant neighborhoods.

5. From Oaxaca: City, Mitla, and Mezcal Factory Tour

This full-day 8-hour tour is for those keen on combining culture, archaeology, and mezcal. For $53 per person, you’ll visit the impressive Mitla archaeological site, marvel at the El Tule Tree, and tour a mezcal factory to see how the beloved spirit is made.

The tour’s highlight is the chance to learn about mezcal’s manufacturing process, tasting several varieties along the way. The itinerary includes scenic landscapes and a chance to appreciate Oaxaca’s diverse landscape.

Bottom Line: Ideal for those interested in archaeology, local spirits, and a full-day culture.

6. Oaxaca: Colonial City Bus Tour

If you prefer to sit back and see the sights, the bus tour offers a quick 1-hour look at Oaxaca’s most important landmarks. Rated 3.6/5 from 9 reviews, it covers neighborhoods like Soledad, Ex Marquezado, and Las Chinas, along with key sites like the Macedonio Alcala Theater. It’s a budget-friendly way to get an overview, especially if you’re tight on time or traveling with family.

Bottom Line: Perfect for a rapid orientation or if mobility is a concern.

7. Oaxaca: Photo Tour of the City

For photography enthusiasts, this 1-hour tour focuses on capturing Oaxaca’s most photogenic sites. Starting at the Santo Domingo church and the stone cross, you’ll walk along the tourist walkway with a local guide who helps frame the perfect shot. In three days, you’ll receive a digital folder of your photos, making it a practical souvenir.

Bottom Line: Great for travelers who want to improve their photography skills while exploring the city.

8. From Oaxaca City: Puerto Escondido Freediving Experience

For adventure lovers, this full-day freediving trip costs $272 per person. It’s not a typical city tour but offers a unique perspective on Oaxaca’s coastal environment. You’ll learn breathing techniques, stretch, and practice immersed in guided sessions from a boat.

Afterward, enjoy local food in La Punta before returning to Oaxaca. It’s a high-investment experience but perfect for those drawn to water sports and the ocean.

Bottom Line: Suited for active travelers seeking a memorable marine experience.

9. From Oaxaca: City Tour and Art Tour in Oaxaca

This 4-hour tour is a feast for the senses. Costing $294 per group (up to 2 people), it combines a walk through Oaxaca’s streets, murals, and historic sites with an emphasis on art and culture. You’ll visit the Cerro de Fortin viewpoint, walk along the colonial streets, and explore the Benito Juarez Market. The tour is well-suited for art lovers and those wanting a more intimate, immersive experience.

Bottom Line: Best for travelers interested in Oaxaca’s artistic side and intimate city experiences.

10. New Friends and Mezcal Tasting Deluxe in Oaxaca city!

For about $71, this walking tour with mezcal tastings offers a lively mix of city exploration and social activity. Starting at Plaza Cruz de Piedra, you’ll visit three mezcalerias, learning about mezcal’s history and craft.

It’s ideal for those wanting to meet fellow travelers and indulge in Oaxaca’s famous spirit while strolling through the city. The small group setup makes for a personalized experience.

Bottom Line: Great for social travelers eager to learn about mezcal and make new friends.

11. Oaxaca : City Tour

A straightforward and affordable city tour at $27 per person, lasting 4 hours, it covers many Oaxaca highlights. It offers a broad overview of the city’s history and culture, with stops at key landmarks and markets. It’s perfect for budget-conscious travelers who want a concise but informative introduction.

Bottom Line: A solid option for travelers new to Oaxaca or short on time.

12. Oaxaca City: Walking tour with local product tasting

This 4-hour tour costs $87 per person and emphasizes local flavors. Walk through the city with a guide, visiting the Treasure of Tomb 7, tasting chocolates, cheeses, and bread—plus discovering the Cathedral of Oaxaca. It’s ideal for foodies and culture lovers alike, offering a deeper connection to local products and stories.

Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting an immersive food and history experience.

13. Oaxaca: Mezcaleria in the City Walking Tour

For $60 per person, this 2-hour tour focuses solely on mezcal. You’ll visit two mezcal bars, learning the cultural importance and craft behind Oaxaca’s most famous spirit. It’s a great choice if mezcal is your main interest, and the guide’s passion will turn you into a connoisseur by the end.

Bottom Line: Best for spirits enthusiasts wanting an in-depth mezcal experience.

14. Oaxaca: Monte Alban & City of Oaxaca Private Tour

If privacy and a tailored experience appeal, this private 8-hour tour is an excellent pick. It includes visits to the UNESCO-listed Monte Albán and Oaxaca city’s top sights. The personal guide provides in-depth insights into the archaeology and architecture, making it perfect for history buffs or those craving a flexible schedule. The price is high, but the personalized service is unmatched.

Bottom Line: Best for travelers seeking a comprehensive, private cultural day.

15. Oaxaca: Private City Tour with Local Food Buffet

For an upscale, personalized experience, this private 3.5-hour tour offers a guided walk through Oaxaca’s main sites, culminating in a local food buffet. Rounded out by hotel pickup and drop-off, it’s ideal for travelers wanting comfort, privacy, and a culinary highlight. It’s a premium option, with a price of $256 per person, but the included meal and personalized attention make it worthwhile.

Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want a luxe, all-in-one cultural and culinary experience.

How to Choose the Right Tour

Picking the ideal Oaxaca tour depends on your interests and travel style. If you enjoy active exploration and creative experiences, the Bike Tour + Art Workshop offers a lively mix. For those wanting to enjoy history and markets, the Walking City Tour or Oaxaca City Beyond the Surface are excellent choices.

Budget travelers may prefer the Colonial City Bus Tour, while art and food lovers might opt for the City & Art Tour or the local product tasting.

If mezcal is your passion, the Mezcaleria Walking Tour provides an in-depth look at Oaxaca’s spirit. And for a full-day adventure, the Mitla & Mezcal Factory is perfect, especially if archaeology fascinates you. Private options like the Monte Albán & Oaxaca Tour suit travelers seeking flexibility and tailored experiences.

Booking early is advised, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred date and avoid missing out on these popular experiences.

To sum it up, Oaxaca De Juarez offers a rich selection of tours to fit every curiosity—from active biking adventures to cultural explorations and culinary delights. Whether you want a quick snapshot or an immersive day, these options help make your visit authentic and memorable.

For best results, pick a tour that matches your interests and pace, and don’t hesitate to book early to ensure your spot in Oaxaca’s lively streets.