Mexico City’s shopping scene thrives through its guided market tours and artisan workshops. The best tours bring you straight to authentic mercados, boutique districts, and craft centers where locals actually shop. We love the 3-hour Historic Center shopping walks for their mix of traditional markets and modern retail, while the Sunday art market tours in San Angel showcase Mexico’s finest handicrafts. For serious shoppers, the 5-hour excursions to La Lagunilla flea market and Ciudadela artisan market provide deep bargaining opportunities and direct access to craftspeople. Let’s explore our favorite shopping tours across Mexico’s bustling capital.
Key Points
- Explore the vibrant markets of Mexico City, including La Merced, Mercado de Sonora, and Mercado de San Juan, on a guided 6-hour Market and Mezcal Tour.
- Enjoy the local cuisine and culture by joining a 3-hour Taco Tour led by Chef Abel Hernández, featuring 8 different food tastings.
- Enjoy a private market tour with local guide Lucia, followed by a hands-on cooking experience in her home to prepare traditional Mexican dishes.
- Discover the art of crafting authentic Mexican salsas during a 4.5-hour Mastering Mexican Salsas Cooking Class in Mexico City.
- Sample a variety of mezcal and pulque, along with edible insects and grasshoppers, on a 1-hour Mezcal & Pulque Tasting Experience in the historic San Juan Market.
Mastering Mexican Salsas Cooking Class and Market Tour
For those seeking to deepen their understanding of Mexico’s vibrant culinary heritage, the Mastering Mexican Salsas Cooking Class and Market Tour offers an immersive experience.
Held in the heart of Mexico City, this highly-rated class invites participants to explore the art of crafting 10 distinct salsas under the guidance of a professional chef.
The 4.5-hour experience includes a market visit, preparation of regional dishes, and tastings of artisanal mezcal and craft beer.
With a maximum of 8 travelers, the class ensures personalized attention and a convivial atmosphere.
Valued at $121.87 per person, this cooking adventure is an excellent opportunity to savor the flavors of Mexico and bring home cherished recipes.
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Mexico City: Mezcal & Pulque Tasting at Exotic Market Stall
Visitors seeking a unique cultural experience in Mexico City can indulge in a Mezcal & Pulque Tasting at an exotic market stall. Lasting an hour and limited to 8 participants, the activity allows guests to sample 10 different mezcal varieties and traditional pulque.
The tasting takes place at the historic San Juan Market, where participants can also explore the vibrant, lively atmosphere and local produce. For $29 per person, the experience includes the drinks, as well as insects, grasshoppers, and a water bottle.
Travelers can conveniently reserve and pay later, and cancelations are free up to 24 hours in advance.
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Private Market Tour and Cooking With a Local Lucia in Mexico City
Lucia’s Private Market Tour and Cooking Class in Mexico City offers travelers a unique opportunity to enjoy the vibrant culinary culture of the city.
This highly-rated tour includes a visit to the lively Mercado del Carmen, where you will explore the market with Lucia and learn about local ingredients.
The hands-on cooking experience takes place in Lucia’s home, where guests can prepare a variety of traditional Mexican dishes, from Albondigas en salsa de chile chipotle to Dulce de guayaba.
With its 100% traveler recommendation and Badge of Excellence, this personalized experience is a must-do for anyone seeking an authentic taste of Mexico City’s cuisine.
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Mexico City: Market and Mezcal Tour
Exploring Mexico City’s vibrant markets and indulging in the art of mezcal tasting is a must-do experience for culinary enthusiasts.
The market and mezcal tour takes visitors on a 6-hour journey, starting at the Museo de la Ciudad de México.
Travelers will explore La Merced, Mercado de Sonora, and Mercado de San Juan, tasting local dishes and exotic offerings, including edible insects.
The tour culminates with a mezcal tasting, where participants learn about agave varieties and production processes, paired with selected foods.
Priced from $66.04 per person, this tour isn’t suitable for those with certain dietary restrictions or mobility issues.
Comfortable clothing and an empty stomach are recommended for this immersive culinary experience.
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Mexico City Market and Salsa Making Secrets With Local Family
Embarking on a captivating 5-hour cultural journey, this tour immerses participants in the vibrant tapestry of Mexico City’s street markets and the time-honored art of salsa making.
With a small group of no more than 12 people, explorers visit two local markets, sampling traditional street foods and learning about the city’s rich history.
The highlight is an interactive salsa-making lesson with a local family, where guests wash, cut, and grill the ingredients before using a molcajete to prepare the perfect salsa.
This immersive experience culminates in savoring the homemade salsa with a classic huarache.
Catering to various dietary needs, this tour offers a well-rounded culture for travelers.
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Market and Tacos Tour by Chef Abel Hernández in Mexico City
Enjoy the vibrant culinary landscape of Mexico City’s Roma and Condesa neighborhoods on this 3-hour Tacos Tour led by Chef Abel Hernández.
Explore the unique taquerias and bustling Mercado de Medellin to discover authentic tacos like Campechano special and El Pastor.
Indulge in 8 different food tastings, including tacos, drinks, and dessert, as you learn about the architectural influences in the area.
This tour is perfect for foodies, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Book now and pay later to secure your spot on this delicious adventure.
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Private Mexican Market Tour and Cooking Lesson in a Local Home
Visitors seeking a genuine taste of Mexican culture can embark on a captivating private market tour and cooking lesson in the heart of Mexico City.
Hosted by Alex and Ale, this personalized experience offers an immersive exploration of local cuisine and traditions. With a 100% recommendation rate from 25 reviews, the tour includes a market visit, hands-on cooking class, and a delicious meal featuring seasonal menus and vegetarian options.
Guests can expect warm hospitality, informative insights, and memorable experiences shared with the hosts. The activity concludes back at the meeting point, which is conveniently located near public transportation.
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Coyoacán Market & Mezcal Tasting With Food Parings
This 2.5-hour experience begins with a 45-minute guided walking tour of the vibrant Coyoacán Market.
Visitors then head to the historic Meztli House Boutique & Spa for a 100-minute mezcal and food tasting.
The tasting features four different mezcals from the female-owned Xicaru distillery and a seasonal 5-course botanas menu designed by the head chef.
The traditional cantina-style service includes five different botanas. Dietary accommodations are available.
The experience isn’t suitable for children under 18, and souvenirs can be purchased during the market visit or tasting.
Reservation and cancellation policies apply.
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Mexican Cooking Class With Food Market Visit in Mexico City
For an authentic taste of Mexico City, travelers can join a hands-on Mexican cooking class that includes a visit to a local food market.
This small-group experience allows participants to source fresh, locally sourced ingredients and learn traditional cooking techniques from an English-speaking chef.
Highlights of the class include making guacamole, handmade tortillas, and assorted Mexican dishes, alongside sipping artisanal mezcal.
With a 98% traveler recommendation and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this cooking class offers an immersive culinary adventure in the heart of Mexico’s vibrant capital.
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Local Culinary Journey: Market Workshop and Tacos With a Local
Exploring Mexico City’s vibrant culinary scene, travelers can embark on a captivating Local Culinary Journey that combines a market tour with a hands-on taco-making workshop.
Over 4.5 hours, groups of up to 8 you will discover authentic local flavors and unique souvenirs as they explore bustling markets.
After the market visit, they’ll return to a gastronomic workshop to learn the art of taco-making from an expert, María, while enjoying a homemade Mezcal cocktail.
This culture experience offers a chance to engage with local culinary traditions and feast on flavors that promise a sensory adventure.
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Authentic Mexican Hands-On Cooking Class and Market Tour
Travelers seeking an immersive culinary experience in Mexico City can embark on an Authentic Mexican Hands-On Cooking Class and Market Tour.
This highly-rated activity in the Roma Norte neighborhood takes participants on a journey through local markets, where they’ll shop for ingredients alongside a professional chef.
In the kitchen, the group will prepare a delectable 4-course meal, including Mexican street appetizers, a white mole dish, and a sweet corn bread with hot chocolate.
With all ingredients, drinks, and printed recipes included, this class offers an authentic taste of Mexico City’s vibrant food culture.
Participants consistently praise the knowledgeable chef, the quality of the food, and the engaging, fun atmosphere.
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The Lagunillas Antique Bazaar
Nestled within the vibrant Tepito neighborhood, the Lagunillas Antique Bazaar beckons visitors to embark on a captivating journey through Mexico City’s rich history and culture.
At just €23.46 per person, this 3.5-hour guided tour offers a unique opportunity to discover antique treasures, indulge in gourmet street food, and take in the local way of life.
Highlights include a visit to the Monumento Al Boxeador, exploring the Bazar De Muebles Antiguos, and a photo stop at the iconic Letras de Tepito.
With a complimentary Michelada and the chance to try Turkish coffee, this tour provides an authentic and unforgettable Mexican experience.
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Mexican Street Tacos Hands-on Cooking Class and Market Tour
Frequently, visitors to Mexico City embark on an immersive culinary journey through the city’s vibrant street food scene.
One of the top-rated experiences is the Mexican Street Tacos Hands-on Cooking Class and Market Tour. This 100% recommended class allows travelers to learn the art of making authentic Mexican street tacos, including al Pastor, Barbacoa, and Campechanos.
Under the guidance of a professional chef, participants explore a local market, then return to the kitchen to prepare a delectable menu of tacos, salsas, and Mexican beverages.
With a maximum of 8 travelers, the class offers a personalized and engaging experience, complete with printed recipes and gratuities included.
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Mexico City: Market and Beyond Walking Tour With Tastings
Exploring Mexico City’s vibrant markets and historical sites, the “Mexico City: Market and Beyond Walking Tour with Tastings” immerses participants in the city’s rich cultural tapestry.
Priced at $89.18 per person, this 4.5-hour tour offers a comprehensive experience, including visits to La Merced Market and Mercado Sonora, tastings of authentic local street food, and a drink at a historic cantina.
The tour is suitable for small groups or private bookings, and the knowledgeable guides receive positive reviews.
While some customers note the tour could provide more in-depth historical insights, the overall experience is highly rated, with travelers praising the immersive nature of the tour and the opportunity to discover hidden gems throughout the city.
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Private Market Tour and Traditional Mexican Cooking in a Beautiful Home
Travelers seeking an immersive culinary experience in Mexico City can embark on a Private Market Tour and Traditional Mexican Cooking class with Margarita. Highly rated with a 100% recommendation, this private tour offers a hands-on introduction to authentic Mexican cuisine.
Guests will explore a local market, learn to prepare classic dishes like stuffed chicken and rice, and savor the flavors of freshly made sopes, guacamole, and desserts.
Led by a hospitable host, the class provides insights into Mexican culinary history and easy-to-follow recipes.
With free cancellation and inclusive of all food and beverages, this cooking experience is a must for foodies visiting the vibrant capital.
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Mexico City Market Tour: Traditional Food and Murals
Immerse oneself in the vibrant culinary culture of Mexico City with the Mexico City Market Tour: Traditional Food and Murals.
This 4-hour experience takes visitors through iconic markets, offering guided tours, food tastings, and a chance to admire captivating murals. Priced from $69 per person, the tour includes visits to Mercado Presidente Abelardo L. Rodriguez, San Juan Market, and Mercado De Jamaica, where one can savor authentic Mexican cuisine like tacos, cheeses, salsas, and aguas frescas.
With options for private or small-group tours, this experience is a must for those seeking to enjoy the city’s rich food heritage.
Advance booking is recommended, with free cancellation up to 24 hours prior.
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Mexico City: Exploring La Merced and Sonora Market With Tastings
Visitors can embark on a guided exploration of La Merced and Sonora Markets in Mexico City, an immersive experience that delves into the city’s rich culinary heritage.
The 3-hour tour starts at 10 am, meeting at the Constitution Square. A knowledgeable bilingual guide provides insights into local food culture, with up to 8 stops featuring tastings of prehispanic ingredients and local delicacies.
Comfortable private transportation ensures a convenient journey, while the small group size of 8 travelers maximum allows for a personalized experience.
Priced at SEK 725.42 per person, the tour has a 100% recommendation rate from prior participants.
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Mexico City: Bazaar Saturday, Convent of Carmen & San Angel
A captivating 6-hour excursion awaits travelers as they explore the vibrant cultural tapestry of San Angel, just south of Mexico City.
The tour offers a glimpse into the Museum of El Carmen, housing over 80 religious art pieces and 12 mummified corpses.
Explorers will then wander through the historical neighborhoods of Chimalistac and San Angel before seeing the bustling Bazaar Saturday, a renowned market known for its exceptional craftsmanship dating back to 1960.
With a professional bilingual guide, a maximum group size of 10, and convenient pickup options, this tour provides an unforgettable opportunity to experience Mexico City’s rich heritage and artistry.
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Mexico City: Market Exploration Tour
This captivating Mexico City Market Exploration Tour takes travelers on a delightful journey through some of the city’s most vibrant and historic marketplaces.
Spanning 6 hours, the tour immerses guests in the rich cultural tapestry of the city, exploring the iconic San Juan Market, the bustling La Merced Market, and the artisanal haven of the Ciudadela Market.
Travelers will savor exotic gourmet foods, engage with local vendors, and uncover unique handcrafted treasures, all while enjoying the comfort of an air-conditioned vehicle and complimentary bottled water.
With a private group experience and flexible booking options, this tour offers an exceptional opportunity to discover the essence of Mexico City’s renowned market culture.
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Market Tour, Cooking Class & Three-Course Mexican Feast
Embarking on this captivating experience, travelers will begin with a 90-minute guided tour of Romas Mercado Medellín, one of Mexico City’s most vibrant and historic marketplaces.
They’ll then dive into a hands-on cooking class, mastering the art of tamales, mole, and tortillas from scratch.
Over the course of approximately 3 hours, you will learn about ancient Mesoamerican ingredients and techniques, as well as the Spanish conquest’s impact on Mexican cuisine.
The experience culminates in a delightful 3-course Mexican feast, complete with dessert and drinks, served at a beautifully laid table.
Recipes will be emailed to guests after the class, allowing them to recreate the flavors at home.
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Mexico City: Mezcal Tasting and Market Tour With Lunch
Mexico City’s vibrant culture and culinary traditions come alive on this immersive Mezcal Tasting and Market Tour. Priced at $179 per person, the 12-hour excursion lets you explore a mezcal distillery, discover the charming town of Atlixco, and savor local flavors.
You’ll learn about mezcal production, indulge in tastings, and stroll through a lush garden. The small-group tour, limited to 15 participants, offers multilingual guides and the flexibility of pickup from your accommodation.
Whether you’re a mezcal enthusiast or simply seeking an authentic Mexican experience, this tour promises a memorable day filled with unique sights, sounds, and tastes.
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Mexico City: La Merced & Sonora Market Tour With Tasting
A 4-hour culinary tour through Mexico City’s iconic La Merced and Sonora markets provides an in-depth exploration of the capital’s vibrant food culture.
For $62.40 per person, travelers can join this small-group tour (limited to 8) and discover the second largest market in the city, La Merced, as well as the renowned Sonora Market, known for its witchcraft offerings.
Along the way, you will savor up to 8 authentic local dishes, from tamales to pozole, while learning about pre-Hispanic ingredients and seasonal fruits from a knowledgeable local guide.
With 4.8/5 stars from 140 reviews, this tour is a must for foodies seeking an immersive cultural experience in Mexico City.
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Mexico City: Half-Day Market Secrets and Salsa Making Tour
Enjoy the vibrant markets and culinary traditions of Mexico City on this half-day tour. Priced at €36.93 per person, the 5-hour experience takes you on a small-group journey to explore the city’s lively street markets, learn about local ingredients, and even try your hand at making authentic salsa.
Savor a variety of street foods, from tacos to tamales, and enjoy guided tastings of local delicacies. Utilizing the efficient Metro system, you’ll travel like a local while learning about Mexican cuisine and culture.
With a highly-rated guide and a maximum group size of 12, this tour offers a unique and personalized experience, perfect for foodies and culture enthusiasts alike.
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Coyocán: Market and Cooking Class
This excursion begins with a visit to the vibrant Coyoacán Market, where a local expert guides participants through the bustling stalls.
Taste authentic quesadillas and drinks as you learn about Mexican ingredients and culinary techniques.
The cooking class takes place at the Meztli Boutique House & Spa, where you’ll choose a four-course menu and prepare it alongside a skilled chef.
Discover the cultural significance of Mexico’s gastronomy, recognized by UNESCO, and learn interesting facts like how nixtamalization increases the calcium content of corn.
This experience caters to various dietary needs and emphasizes inclusivity, making it a great choice for a well-rounded culinary adventure.
Read our full review: Coyocán: Market and Cooking Class Review
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Mexico City: Street Taco Cooking Class & Market Tour
Travelers seeking an authentic culinary adventure in Mexico City can embark on a captivating Street Taco Cooking Class and Market Tour.
The 4.5-hour experience, limited to just 7 participants, takes you on a delectable journey through the city’s vibrant foodscape.
You’ll begin by preparing a spread of classic Mexican tacos, salsas, and tortillas in a cozy cooking studio.
Then, explore the bustling Mercado de Medellín, uncovering traditional ingredients like exotic bugs and seasonal fruits.
With a professional chef guide, you’ll savor quesadillas, raw cacao, and hand-crafted ice cream.
This all-inclusive tour includes hotel pickup, printed recipes, and ample opportunities to indulge in Mexican craft beer and mezcal.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is There a Minimum Number of Participants Required for the Tours?
Many shopping tours have a minimum number of participants required to operate, typically ranging from 2 to 6 people. This ensures an enjoyable group experience and allows the tour operators to provide a quality service efficiently.
What Type of Payment Methods Are Accepted for the Tours?
Most tour companies accept a variety of payment methods, including credit/debit cards, cash, and mobile payments like Apple Pay or Google Pay. Some may also offer the option to pay in advance online. It’s best to check with the specific tour provider.
Can the Tours Be Customized to Accommodate Dietary Restrictions?
Many tour companies can accommodate dietary restrictions for their tours. Customers should inquire about the options when booking, as the tours may be customized to meet their specific needs, such as vegan, vegetarian, or gluten-free requirements.
Are Children/Minors Allowed to Participate in the Tours?
Most tour companies allow children and minors to participate in their shopping tours, though some may have age restrictions or require parental supervision. It’s best to check with the specific tour provider to understand their policies regarding minor participants.
Is Transportation to and From the Tour Locations Provided?
Many tour operators provide transportation to and from the tour locations for their customers. This is often included in the tour package to make the experience more convenient and accessible for participants.
Recap
Mexico City’s vibrant markets offer an immersive shopping experience. From learning to make authentic salsas to tasting mezcal, these tours provide a unique window into the city’s rich culinary heritage. Whether you’re a foodie or a culture enthusiast, these market excursions are an excellent way to discover the heart and soul of this dynamic metropolis.