Mexico City’s shopping scene delivers an authentic slice of Mexican life through its markets and food experiences. These guided outings cut through tourist traps to connect you with the real Mexico. Our favorite tours focus on the massive public markets like La Merced, where you’ll discover pre-Hispanic ingredients and street food alongside a knowledgeable local guide. We especially love the combination market-cooking classes – they start with ingredient shopping and end with you preparing traditional dishes in a family kitchen. After testing dozens of options, we’ve selected the most enriching shopping tours that showcase Mexico City’s best markets, antique shops, and culinary traditions. Check out our recommended tours below:
Key Points
-
Explore historic markets like La Merced and San Juan on guided culinary tours, offering insights into local food traditions and opportunities to sample authentic dishes.
-
Discover unique antique bazaars and street food during private market tours and cooking lessons in local homes, providing immersive cultural experiences.
-
Participate in hands-on cooking classes led by expert English-speaking chefs, focusing on mastering traditional Mexican dishes such as guacamole, tortillas, and salsas.
-
Enjoy the personalized attention and engagement of small group sizes for cooking classes, typically ranging from 6 to 10 participants for intimate experiences.
-
Benefit from flexible cancellation policies and positive reviews highlighting the friendly instructors and enriching nature of the culinary tours and cooking classes.
Mexican Cooking Class With Food Market Visit in Mexico City
Exploring the vibrant culinary scene of Mexico City, travelers can enjoy a hands-on Mexican cooking class that begins with a visit to a local food market.
This highly-rated experience offers a maximum of 10 participants the chance to learn from an expert English-speaking chef and create an authentic Mexican feast.
The class includes making guacamole, handmade tortillas, Mexican guisados, and assorted sorbets, using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and top-quality cooking tools.
With a 98% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence, this cooking class provides an immersive cultural experience for foodies seeking to master Mexican cuisine.
Read our full review: Mexican Cooking Class With Food Market Visit in Mexico City Review
Book now: Check availability
Mexico City: La Merced & Sonora Market Tour With Tasting
This 4-hour guided culinary tour takes travelers on an immersive exploration of two of Mexico City’s most vibrant and historic markets – La Merced and Sonora.
Visitors can expect to sample a range of authentic local dishes, from pre-Hispanic ingredients to modern Mexican classics. The tour includes up to 8 food tasting stops, water, drinks, and dessert.
Knowledgeable bilingual guides provide insights into local traditions and culinary practices. With a maximum of 8 participants, the tour offers an intimate and personalized experience.
Comfortable clothing and shoes are recommended, and certain items like strollers and pets aren’t allowed.
Read our full review: Mexico City: La Merced & Sonora Market Tour With Tasting Review
Book now: Check availability
Essence of Mexico: Authentic Mexican Cooking Class & Market Tour
Immerse oneself in the vibrant culinary traditions of Mexico City with the captivating “Essence of Mexico: Authentic Mexican Cooking Class & Market Tour”.
Boasting a 100% recommendation rate and a Badge of Excellence, this hands-on experience takes participants through the lively Roma Norte neighborhood to learn classic Mexican dishes from a professional chef.
The menu highlights include a starter of Mexican street appetizers, a main course of light and flavorful white mole, and a dessert of corn bread with hot chocolate.
Participants will also enjoy a market tour, a four-course lunch, and various refreshing drinks.
With a maximum of 8 travelers, this intimate class offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the essence of Mexican cuisine.
Read our full review: Essence of Mexico: Authentic Mexican Cooking Class & Market Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
The Lagunillas Antique Bazaar
The Lagunillas Antique Bazaar offers visitors a captivating glimpse into Mexico City’s vibrant culture and history. Priced at $24.60 per person, this 3.5-hour tour takes participants on a guided exploration of the bustling Tianguis de La Lagunilla market.
Guests will have the opportunity to peruse antique stalls for vintage furniture and artistic relics, indulge in local street food, and enjoy a complimentary Michelada. The tour also includes a visit to the iconic Letras de Tepito.
With a maximum group size of 6, the experience promises an intimate and immersive journey through the heart of Mexico City’s antique scene. Comfortable footwear and vigilance over belongings are recommended, as some vendors may only accept cash.
Read our full review: The Lagunillas Antique Bazaar Review
Book now: Check availability
Private Mexican Market Tour and Cooking Lesson in a Local Home
Visitors to Mexico City can embark on a captivating private market tour and cooking lesson in a local home, hosted by Alex and Ale.
With a 5.0 rating and 100% traveler recommendation, this experience offers a deep dive into Mexico’s vibrant culinary culture. Participants explore San Juan Market, handling classic ingredients like dried chiles and discovering unique finds like wild boar.
They then prepare traditional dishes such as chicken wrapped in corn tortillas with mole under the guidance of the knowledgeable hosts. Reviewers praise the welcoming atmosphere and the opportunity to enjoy a home-cooked meal while learning about Mexican cuisine and culture.
Vegetarian options and customizable menus are available upon request.
Read our full review: Private Mexican Market Tour and Cooking Lesson in a Local Home Review
Book now: Check availability
Mexico City: Market Exploration Tour
Setting out on a captivating exploration of Mexico City’s vibrant markets, this comprehensive tour offers visitors a unique opportunity to enjoy the heart of the city’s thriving culinary scene.
From the exotic gourmet delights of the San Juan Market to the bustling energy of La Merced and the artisanal wonders of Ciudadela, this 6-hour private group experience showcases the best of the city’s bustling marketplaces.
With air-conditioned transportation, complimentary bottled water, and the ability to reserve now and pay later, this tour provides a hassle-free way to discover Mexico City’s rich culinary heritage and immerse in the lively haggling atmosphere of its iconic markets.
Read our full review: Mexico City: Market Exploration Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Mastering Mexican Salsas Cooking Class and Market Tour
This captivating culinary experience offers travelers the opportunity to master the art of crafting authentic Mexican salsas.
The Mastering Mexican Salsas Cooking Class and Market Tour in Mexico City boasts a stellar 4.9/5 rating from 25 reviews, with 96% of travelers recommending it.
Participants will learn to prepare a variety of signature salsas, from traditional guacamole to the fiery Devils Sauce, in an intimate, hands-on setting.
The class also includes a guided tour of the vibrant Mercado de Medellin, where guests can explore the market’s rich history and diverse array of local ingredients.
With all materials provided and a maximum group size of 8, this class promises an immersive and memorable culinary adventure.
Read our full review: Mastering Mexican Salsas Cooking Class and Market Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Mexico City: Street Taco Cooking Class & Market Tour
For those seeking an immersive culinary adventure in Mexico City, the Street Taco Cooking Class & Market Tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to master the art of crafting authentic Mexican street tacos.
Over the course of 4.5 hours, you will explore the vibrant Mercado de Medellín, sampling traditional dishes and learning about local ingredients.
Back in the cooking studio, they’ll prepare a delectable 4-course lunch featuring tacos al pastor, tacos de barbacoa, and tacos campechanos, along with homemade salsas and tortillas.
Paired with Mexican craft beer and mezcal, this hands-on experience promises to transport guests to the flavorful heart of Mexico City’s renowned street food scene.
Read our full review: Mexico City: Street Taco Cooking Class & Market Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Mexican Street Tacos Hands-on Cooking Class and Market Tour
What better way to take in Mexico City’s renowned street food scene than through a hands-on cooking class focused on crafting traditional Mexican street tacos?
This highly-rated experience takes participants on a culinary journey, guiding them through the art of making iconic tacos al pastor, barbacoa, and campechano under the tutelage of a professional chef.
Travelers rave about the friendly instructors, delicious fare, and enriching market tour, which provides a unique opportunity to engage with local culture and ingredients.
Priced at €116.10 per person, this 100% recommended class offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, making it a must-do activity for any foodie visiting Mexico City.
Read our full review: Mexican Street Tacos Hands-on Cooking Class and Market Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Local Culinary Journey: Market and Taco Workshop With a Local
Immersing oneself in Mexico City’s vibrant food culture is made possible through a captivating Local Culinary Journey that blends a visit to local markets with a hands-on taco workshop led by a knowledgeable local host.
The 4.5-hour experience, priced from €60 per person, allows a small group of up to 8 participants to explore authentic flavors and unique souvenirs at two local markets.
After the market exploration, guests learn to craft delicious tacos with the guidance of María, enjoying a homemade Mezcal cocktail during the taco feast.
The immersive experience also includes transportation by bus and metro, offering a deeper culture.
Read our full review: Local Culinary Journey: Market and Taco Workshop With a Local Review
Book now: Check availability
Market Tour and Home Cooking Class in Mexico City With Margarita
Travelers can join local chef Margarita in her home to embark on a captivating culinary journey through Mexico City’s vibrant food culture.
The experience offers a private market tour to gather traditional ingredients, followed by hands-on cooking lessons to prepare dishes like tortilla soup, stuffed chicken, and dulce de leche crepes. Options cater to vegetarian and gluten-free diets.
The class includes alcoholic beverages, coffee/tea, and the full meal. Priced from $134.24 per person, the experience provides a lowest price guarantee and free cancellation up to 24 hours before.
With 21 reviews and a 5.0 rating, the class earns 100% traveler recommendations for Margarita’s hospitality and expertise in Mexican cuisine.
Read our full review: Market Tour and Home Cooking Class in Mexico City With Margarita Review
Book now: Check availability
Coyocán: Market and Cooking Class
This captivating culinary experience takes guests on an immersive journey through the vibrant Coyoacán neighborhood of Mexico City.
Priced at $113.15 per person and lasting 5 hours, the Coyocán: Market and Cooking Class offers an opportunity to explore the UNESCO-recognized Mexican gastronomy.
Participants will visit the local Coyoacán Market, taste authentic quesadillas, and learn about ingredients and traditional preparation methods.
The hands-on cooking class takes place at the Meztli Boutique House & Spa, where a welcoming chef teaches participants to craft a range of dishes accommodating various dietary needs.
Rated 5/5 by past guests, this LGBTQ+-friendly experience fosters a sense of community while developing practical cooking skills.
Read our full review: Coyocán: Market and Cooking Class Review
Book now: Check availability
Mexico City: Exploring La Merced and Sonora Market With Tastings
Exploring the vibrant markets of Mexico City, the “Mexico City: Exploring La Merced and Sonora Market With Tastings” tour takes participants on a captivating journey through the city’s rich culinary heritage.
With a 5.0 rating and 100% recommendation from travelers, this tour offers an immersive experience, featuring up to 8 stops to sample pre-Hispanic ingredients like bugs, worms, ants, and fish.
Guided by a bilingual expert, the tour highlights the La Merced and Sonora markets, known for their unique food culture and local vendors.
While a moderate fitness level is recommended, the tour provides a comfortable experience with transportation, hand sanitizer, and water included.
Read our full review: Mexico City: Exploring La Merced and Sonora Market With Tastings Review
Book now: Check availability
Mexico City: Mexican Salsas Cooking Class and Market Tour
Setting out on a culinary adventure in Mexico City, the “Mexican Salsas Cooking Class and Market Tour” immerses participants in the vibrant flavors and rich heritage of the region.
Priced from Kč 3,449 per person, the 4-hour experience includes a hands-on cooking class where visitors prepare 10 traditional salsas under the guidance of an expert chef.
The tour also explores the Mercado de Medellín, where guests discover local ingredients and learn about Mexican culinary history.
Diners enjoy the salsas with tacos and appetizers, accompanied by artisanal mezcal and craft beer.
With an impressive 5/5 rating, this intimate class limited to 7 participants offers an immersive cultural and gastronomic journey through Mexico City.
Read our full review: Mexico City: Mexican Salsas Cooking Class and Market Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Market Tour, Cooking Class & Three-Course Mexican Feast
Immersing visitors in the vibrant culinary heritage of Mexico City, this comprehensive experience combines a market tour, hands-on cooking class, and a three-course feast.
Discover the history of Mexican cuisine, from ancient Mesoamerican ingredients to Spanish colonial influences. Learn to prepare tamales, mole, and tortillas from scratch, then enjoy your creations along with small-brand Mexican beer, wine, and mezcal.
The market tour provides insights into the ingredients and techniques shaping modern Mexican dishes. With free cancellation and a reserve now, pay later option, this 6-7 hour activity is sure to sell out quickly.
Dietary requirements are accommodated, and recipes are emailed after the class.
Read our full review: Market Tour, Cooking Class & Three-Course Mexican Feast Review
Book now: Check availability
Mexico City: Bazaar Saturday, Convent of Carmen & San Angel
Discover the vibrant cultural heritage of Mexico City as you journey through the charming neighborhoods of San Angel and Chimalistac.
This 6-hour tour takes you to the Bazaar Saturday market, known for its diverse handicrafts and craftsmanship since 1960.
Explore the Museum of El Carmen, a historical museum housing over 80 religious art pieces and 12 mummified corpses.
Wander through the picturesque streets of San Angel, admiring the stunning mansions and learning about the neighborhood’s fascinating stories and legends.
Finally, discover the ancient community of Chimalistac, with its stone bridges and colonial chapels.
Led by a knowledgeable bilingual guide, this tour offers a comprehensive immersion into Mexico City’s rich history and vibrant culture.
Read our full review: Mexico City: Bazaar Saturday, Convent of Carmen & San Angel Review
Book now: Check availability
Mexico City: Authentic Mexican Cooking Class & Market Tour
Travelers to Mexico City can enjoy an immersive culinary experience through an authentic Mexican cooking class and market tour. Priced from Kč 3,567 per person, this 4.5-hour small-group activity is led by professional chefs and includes a visit to Mercado de Medellín.
Participants will sample local delicacies, learn about traditional cooking methods, and prepare a multi-course meal. The experience features a welcome drink, hands-on cooking, and a 4-course lunch paired with Mexican beverages.
Free cancellation and reserve now, pay later options make this an accessible opportunity to dive into Mexico City’s vibrant food culture. With an overall 5/5 rating, this cooking class is a highlight for those seeking an authentic and delicious taste of Mexico.
Read our full review: Mexico City: Authentic Mexican Cooking Class & Market Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Mexico City: Half-Day Market Secrets and Salsa Making Tour
Priced competitively from €37.40 per person, this 5-hour small-group or private tour offers travelers an immersive glimpse into Mexico City’s vibrant food culture.
Guests will visit local markets, sample street foods, and learn to make salsa with a local family. Highlights include tasting tamales, atole, and huaraches, as well as exploring fresh produce, flowers, and piñatas.
The tour includes an interactive salsa-making lesson using traditional tools like the molcajete. Accommodations are available for various dietary needs, and the tour covers about 6 km of walking, making it suitable for those with medium fitness levels.
With excellent reviews praising the authenticity, knowledgeable guides, and memorable experiences, this tour is a must-try for foodies visiting Mexico City.
Read our full review: Mexico City: Half-Day Market Secrets and Salsa Making Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Mexico City Market Tour
Explore the vibrant heart of Mexico City’s culinary scene on this immersive market tour. Priced from Kč 1,668 per person, the 4-hour experience takes you to iconic markets like Mercado Presidente Abelardo L. Rodriguez and Mercado De Jamaica.
Savor exotic flavors, from tacos to local cheeses, as you wander amid the thousands of colorful flowers. Guided by local experts, you’ll discover the markets’ picturesque murals and authentic atmosphere.
The tour includes public transportation, food tastings, and options for private or small-group experiences. Remember to bring your travel essentials, as pets aren’t allowed, and the minimum age for the tour is 12 with adult supervision.
Book now to secure your spot and pay later.
Read our full review: Mexico City Market Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Mexico City: Market and Beyond Walking Tour With Tastings
Stepping beyond the vibrant markets explored in the previous tour, the Mexico City: Market and Beyond Walking Tour with Tastings offers a comprehensive immersion into the city’s diverse culinary and cultural landscapes.
Over 4.5 hours, guests embark on a journey through iconic locales like La Merced Market and Mercado Sonora, savoring authentic street food and sampling local specialties like mole and pre-Hispanic snacks.
The tour also unveils the city’s artistic heritage, from hidden murals to street altars honoring Santa Muerte.
With a live guide fluent in English and Spanish, as well as included tastings, transportation, and gratuities, this experience provides unparalleled value for exploring Mexico City’s vibrant culture.
Read our full review: Mexico City: Market and Beyond Walking Tour With Tastings Review
Book now: Check availability
Sum Up
Mexico City’s vibrant markets offer immersive shopping experiences, from traditional cooking classes and market tours to exploring antique bazaars. Visitors can discover authentic Mexican cuisine, browse unique handicrafts, and enjoy the city’s rich cultural heritage. With a range of guided tours available, there’s something for every traveler seeking an unforgettable shopping experience in this bustling metropolis.