Street Food and 3 Markets Tour, Meat and Veggie Options

If you’re craving an authentic taste of Oaxaca, this Street Food and 3 Markets Tour promises an immersive experience through the city’s vibrant markets, flavorful bites, and local traditions. Guided by knowledgeable locals, you’ll explore renowned sites and secret spots, sampling dishes that go well beyond what you’d find in restaurants.

What we love about this tour? First, the variety of food stops, from lively markets to a hidden market, offers a genuine snapshot of local cuisine. Second, the guides’ expertise and friendliness make learning about Oaxacan food and culture engaging and relaxed. Third, the accommodation of dietary preferences like vegetarian options makes it accessible and enjoyable for many.

One potential consideration is the group size—with a maximum of 10 travelers, it’s intimate, but if you prefer larger tours, this might feel a bit limited. This tour is perfect for food lovers, culture enthusiasts, and anyone wanting a hands-on, authentic culinary experience in Oaxaca.

Good To Know

• Authentic Market Visits: Explore two well-known markets plus a hidden, off-the-beaten-path market.
• Variety of Dishes: From savory meats to vegetarian options and seasonal sweets, there’s something for all.
• Local Guides: Guides are knowledgeable, friendly, and offer cultural insights beyond just food.
• Inclusive Experience: All food, drinks, and desserts are included, offering great value.
• Short Duration: About 3 hours, making it an easy addition to your Oaxaca itinerary.
• Small Group: Limited to 10 travelers for a personalized experience.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Starting Point: Oaxaca Streets

The tour kicks off in the lively streets of Oaxaca, where your guide introduces you to the city’s culinary heartbeat. Expect a warm welcome and a brief overview of what makes Oaxacan street food so special. We loved how the guide, Sara, effortlessly balanced storytelling with tastings, making the walk feel like exploring with a friend. Reviewers appreciated this personalized touch, with Helen noting that the guide made sure vegetarian options were available, which is often a concern for many.

Mercado Benito Juarez: The Heart of Oaxacan Food

Your first market stop is Mercado Benito Juarez, one of Oaxaca’s most famous and colorful markets. It’s a bustling hub teeming with local vendors selling everything from fresh produce to street snacks. Here, you’ll get a real sense of the city’s rhythm. Expect to see vibrant stalls, hear the chatter of vendors, and sample authentic dishes that taste better than in many restaurants.

One reviewer, Joann, summed it up perfectly: “Sara took us all over the old center… food markets, street tacos, and ice cream! It was a super fun time with lots of foods to taste.” This market is perfect for those who want to observe local life while indulging in delicious bites.

Mercado 20 De Noviembre: A Food Lover’s Paradise

Next, the tour moves to Mercado 20 De Noviembre, another bustling food-focused market. This is a hotspot for variety—here, you’ll encounter a broader selection of street foods, especially the famous Oaxaca-style tacos. Sara’s insights into the different vendors and their specialties add depth to the experience. This stop is where many reviewers, including Hester, noted that they tried numerous foods they wouldn’t have dared to pick up on their own, thanks to the guide’s encouragement and knowledge.

Mercado Sanchez Pascuas: A Cultural and Culinary Treasure

The final market, Mercado Sanchez Pascuas, is a bit more traditional and less touristy. It’s run by indigenous vendors and offers a range of native fruits and foods. Many visitors, like Helen, appreciated learning about seasonal ingredients and indigenous traditions. The market’s authentic vibe makes it an ideal spot to taste native fruits and enjoy the local ambiance.

Hidden Gems and Special Tastings

One of the most-liked aspects was the tour’s inclusion of a “secret,” off-the-beaten-path market, which many reviewers found to be a highlight. It’s here that you might find traditional snacks, native fruits, or regional specialties that are rarely seen by travelers. Sara’s storytelling sheds light on the significance of some ingredients and dishes, making each tasting more meaningful.

Desserts and Beverages

The tour wraps up with local sweets—think seasonal treats and indigenous confections—and includes coffee, tea, or bottled water. Reviewers like Hester enjoyed tasting all kinds of foods and drinks they wouldn’t have tried otherwise, and this sweet ending caps off the experience perfectly.

The Value of This Tour

Priced at $69 per person for about three hours, this experience packs in a lot of value. All food, beverages, and desserts are included, which means you won’t need to worry about extra costs. The small group size ensures personalized attention and ample time to ask questions, making it feel more like a culinary adventure with friends than a typical tour.

The guides, especially Sara, stand out for their deep knowledge and friendly manner. Reviewers consistently praised her storytelling, attentiveness, and willingness to accommodate dietary restrictions—an important aspect for vegetarians or those with allergies. One guest mentioned that after the tour, they felt more confident exploring markets on their own, which speaks to the educational quality of the experience.

From a cultural perspective, the tour offers subtle insights into local traditions, indigenous food practices, and Oaxaca’s vibrant street life. The stops are thoughtfully chosen—not just popular markets, but also lesser-known spots, offering a well-rounded view of the city’s culinary landscape.

Practical Tips for Future Travelers

• Timing: The tour starts at 10:00 am, so plan your morning accordingly. It’s a great way to kick off a day of sightseeing.
• Group Size: With a maximum of 10 travelers, expect a personalized experience, but book ahead as it’s often booked 48 days in advance.
• Dietary Needs: Inform the guides beforehand—vegetarians and special diets are well accommodated.
• Clothing: Wear comfortable shoes, as there’s a good amount of walking through markets and streets.
• Hydration: Water is provided, but you might want to bring extra if you’re sensitive to the sun or heat.
• Ending Point: The tour concludes at Mercado Benito Juárez, convenient if you plan to explore more or head directly to other parts of the city.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for food lovers eager to taste authentic Oaxaca dishes in a lively, authentic setting. It’s ideal if you’re interested in local markets, native ingredients, and traditional snacks. The tour’s small group setting makes it perfect for travelers who enjoy personalized attention and storytelling.

Vegetarians will appreciate the guides’ efforts to include plant-based options, and those with dietary restrictions will find the communication clear and accommodating. It also suits travelers who want a curated, insider view of Oaxaca’s vibrant street food scene without the hassle of wandering aimlessly.

If you’re looking for a relaxed, informative, and tasty introduction to Oaxaca’s culinary traditions, this tour fits the bill.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians? Yes. The guides, especially Sara, ensure vegetarian options are available at each stop, and reviews highlight how well dietary needs are accommodated.

How long does the tour last? It lasts approximately 3 hours, making it easy to fit into a morning or early afternoon schedule.

Are drinks included? Yes, bottled water, coffee, and/or tea are included along with all tastings.

Where does the tour start and end? It begins at Monumento Cruz de Piedra in Oaxaca’s city center and finishes at Mercado Benito Juárez.

Is transportation provided between stops? No, the tour is walking-based, allowing you to enjoy the streets and markets at a leisurely pace.

Can I cancel if I change my mind? Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour starts, providing flexibility if plans change.

Is this tour good for someone with limited mobility? Since it involves walking through markets and streets, it may not be suitable for those with mobility concerns. Confirm with the provider if needed.

Final Thoughts

This Street Food and 3 Markets Tour in Oaxaca offers genuine insight into the city’s culinary soul. It’s an excellent choice for those wanting to taste authentic dishes, learn about local ingredients, and explore markets beyond the touristy façade—all with a friendly, knowledgeable guide.

The combination of well-selected stops, inclusive tastings, and the opportunity to learn indigenous food traditions makes it a standout experience. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned Oaxaca visitor, this tour will deepen your appreciation for the city’s colorful cuisine and vibrant street life.

For anyone who relishes authentic food adventures, values cultural insights, and prefers small-group experiences, this tour is a real gem—delivering more than just food but a taste of Oaxaca’s heart.