Oaxaca Cultural Tour: Museums, Markets, and Churches

Embark on a captivating walking tour of Santo Domingo’s Historic Center, explore Alcalá Street, visit vibrant markets, and indulge in a delightful chocolate tasting experience.

Duration: 4 hours, 30 minutes
Cancellation: 1 day learn more
Highlights
  • Zocalo - You will visit the small and busy public square surrounded by the city center where you will find a variety of restaurants, stalls and historic buildings.
  • Mercado Benito Juarez - The markets of Oaxaca reflect in their premises and to their last corner, all the culture and tradition of the state.

There is a great variety of products -either gastronomic or artisanal-, most of them are made by locals and harvested on their own land.

  • Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzman - The Temple of Santo Domingo de Guzmán in the city of Oaxaca de Juárez is an example of New Spain baroque architecture.
    Its interior is decorated with gold. Its beauty will amaze you.
    The hours of the museum of cultures may vary during the week and could be closed
    *

  • Mercado 20 de Noviembre - For crafts, souvenirs and mezcal we will visit:
    Calle de Alcalá, Former Convent of Santa Catalina and Chocolate Factory

  • Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca - This fascinating museum highlights the richness and diversity of cultures that have left their mark on the region over the centuries.
    Founded in 1965, the museum occupies the imposing building of the former Convent of Santo Domingo de Guzmán, a colonial structure that in itself is an architectural masterpiece.
    The museum’s rooms house an impressive collection of archaeological artifacts, crafts, textiles and objects of daily life that offer a deep insight into the history and cultural identity of Oaxaca. Highlights include exhibits dedicated to the Zapotec and Mixtec cultures, which dominated the region before the arrival of the Spanish.
    In addition to permanent exhibitions, the museum organizes cultural events, workshops and educational activities that involve the local community and visitors. The Museum of the Cultures of Oaxaca is, without a doubt, a must-see destination for those seeking to immerse themselves in the cultural and historical wealth of this Mexican region.

  • Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption - The majestic Oaxaca Cathedral, dedicated to the Virgin of the Assumption, stands as an architectural and spiritual testament in the heart of the picturesque city of Oaxaca, Mexico. Built over several centuries, from the 16th to the 18th century, the cathedral reflects an amalgamation of architectural styles ranging from Gothic to Baroque, creating a unique and fascinating structure.
    The exterior of the cathedral captivates with its ornate façade, decorated with intricate details carved from local green quarry.
    Upon entering, visitors are greeted by the imposing central nave, whose height and breadth evoke a sense of divine grandeur. The gilded altars and baroque altarpieces display exceptional works of sacred art, highlighting the skill of local artists from the colonial era.

  • Museo de los Pintores Oxaquenos - Full of color and creativity, the Museum of Oaxacan Painters is a charming artistic corner in the heart of Oaxaca, Mexico. This museum celebrates the vibrant local art scene, displaying fascinating works by contemporary painters that capture the unique essence of the region.

Located in a historic building, the museum combines traditional architecture with the modernity of its exhibitions. Upon entering its rooms, visitors are greeted by an explosion of colors and styles that reflect the diversity and creativity of Oaxacan artists. Paintings that chronicle daily life, cultural traditions and the richness of the local landscape decorate the walls, immersing viewers in a visual and emotional journey.

With a welcoming atmosphere and a focus on contemporary artistic expression, the Museo de los Pintores Oaxaqueños presents itself as a must-see place for those who wish to explore and appreciate the vitality of local art in Oaxaca.

What's Included
  • Hotel pick-up
  • Local guide
What's Not Included
  • Gratuities
  • hotel drop off
Additional Information

Start your day by exploring the Museum of Cultures, where vestiges of pre-Hispanic civilizations and local crafts reveal the vibrant history of the region. Head towards the majestic Church of Santo Domingo, a baroque masterpiece that captivates with its sculpted façade and gilded altarpieces. From there, travel along the picturesque Tourist Walk. Make a sweet stop at a local chocolate shop and immerse yourself in the vitality of the November 20 Market. Benito Juárez, where the stalls are overflowing with spices, herbs and local products that give life to the rich Oaxacan gastronomy. Explore the Museum of Oaxacan Painters, an artistic refuge that highlights the region’s contemporary creativity. End your day in the imposing Cathedral Church, an architectural work that fuses styles throughout the centuries. Contemplate the sacred beauty and history that are woven into every detail, closing your tour with an unforgettable cultural experience in the heart of Oaxaca.

Location
Quinta Real Oaxaca
5 de Mayo
5 de Mayo street, corner of Murguía, or in the lobby of the Quinta Real hotel
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
4.7
(13 Ratings)
5 stars
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1 star
F781rfjasonm
Jun 5, 2024
Great walking tour of Oaxaca - Excellent tour, Sylvia was very informative and shared many things we would not have been aware of about the museums and other points of interest. We would highly recommend her to anyone wanting to learn more about Oaxaca.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
William_l
Apr 26, 2024
Santo Domingo museum and... - Santo Domingo museum and grounds, Lavatorio, organic market, easy scenic walking, excellent explanations by guide
Review provided by Viator
Luis_c
Mar 27, 2024
Wonderful Oaxaca! - Excellent walking tour, very knowledgeable tour guide. The tour guide was extremely acamodating. Worth every peso!!🙌🙌🙌🙌
Review provided by Viator
Lise_g
Feb 26, 2020
Excellent Introduction to Oaxaca - Gabriel gave a terrific walking tour of the history of Oaxaca and its people. He was well versed and engaging. I'd highly recommend this tour for a first day in the city as it helps orient you to the grid layout. It's also a great tour to have following a tour of Monte Alban. Got a couple of tailored recommendations from Gabriel based on my interest (Mixtec cuisine and gold filigree jewelry). Thanks for a great morning!
Review provided by Viator
Maria
Nov 20, 2019
A walking tour of historical district - I had a little surprise as description didn't mention that excursion is all walking - that is 3,5 hours. Mostly because the areas that we visited aren't accessible by transport. I came prepared and I had good time. Our guide Antonio did great job managing a bi-lingual group.
Review provided by Viator
Oldmacmillan
Dec 26, 2017
This was a three hour walking tour... - <p>This was a three hour walking tour of important places within Oaxaca City. Our guide, Antonio, brought the many items in the <br/> museum to life. He was VERY knowledgeable and listened carefully to our many questions, which his presentation generated! Thank you, Antonio!</p>
Review provided by Viator
Jonel_n
Dec 11, 2017
Excellent. Tour guide Daniel was... - <p>Excellent. Tour guide Daniel was fantastic. Highly recommended.</p>
Review provided by Viator
John_b
Feb 26, 2020
Walking Tour of El Centro - Very good tour with our Guide Moses. He was very personable and gave an entertaining and informative tour of the main attractions in El Centro. I would recommend this tour.
Review provided by Viator
Jefferyp2017
Feb 24, 2018
Lots of walking but we saw a whole lot of Oaxaca and its people - We did the Oaxaca walking tour on a Sunday, which was great for us as we got to see what an old town in Mexico looks like during fiesta. Lots of families, and vendors selling all kinds of treasures, it was a great tour.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Patricia_k
Jun 4, 2019
Inside tours - It is difficult when both languages have to be used as questions and conversations cannot be translated effectively and efficiently. Just be aware of this. Since I understand both languages I was aware of what was missed on both sides. Be ready to spend a lot of time inside.
Review provided by Viator
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October 2024
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