Art in Mexico City & Oaxaca

Historic center and anthropology museum:

Explore Mexico City ́s captivating historic center and delve into Mesoamerican history at the National Museum of Anthropology with a private guide. Head to the Zócalo (main square) to observe architectural splendor that spans centuries, from the grandeur of pre-Columbian ruins to elegant colonial buildings and modern structures that shape the cityscape. Marvel at the awe-inspiring Metropolitan Cathedral, a masterpiece of Spanish Baroque architecture, take in the facade of the National Palace and wander along the lively Avenida Francisco Madero, lined with bustling shops and colorful street vendors. Pause to admire the Palace of Fine Arts, a true architectural gem that seamlessly blends Art Nouveau and Art Deco

Styles. Mexico ́s most visited museum showcases a vast collection of relics from a myriad of cultures, housed within a renowned architectural design by Pedro Ramirez Vasquez. Your private guide will lead you on a journey through the museum ́s vast collection of artifacts that tell the stories of Mesoamerica. As you explore these fascinating pieces and admire their craftsmanship, your expert will bring to life the myths and secrets behind ancient civilizations.

Ballet Folklorico:

Founded over six decades ago, Mexico’s Folkloric Ballet has represented its country in the most important forums worldwide. With more than seventy choreographic pieces created by founder Amalia Hernández, the Folkloric Ballet has proven to capture both national audiences and foreign visitors with aesthetic representations deeply rooted in Mexican culture and folklore. In its fine artistic quality, in serving as an ambassador of Mexico, the ballet has diffused Mexican emotions and sentiments throughout the people of the world. Since 1961, when the ballet first won a dance group prize at the Festival of Nations in Paris, it is hard to keep track of just how many performances and recognitions have been fulfilled through the numerous tours internationally and in its home theater “Palacio de Bellas Artes (Palace of Fine Arts)”

Teotihuacán and Roma neighborhood exploration:

This UNESCO World Heritage site is renowned for its breathtaking pyramids, intricate ruins and fascinating history. As you arrive at the archaeological zone, you will be greeted by the awe-inspiring sight of the Sun and Moon pyramids, two magnificent structures that have stood the test of time and hold deep cultural and spiritual significance. Guided by your private, knowledgeable expert, explore the remnants of this once-vibrant city, walking along the Avenue of the Dead — a central thoroughfare flanked by impressive temples and palaces. Learn about the daily life, rituals and beliefs of the Teotihuacanos as you marvel at the well-preserved murals, detailed carvings and architectural wonders that grace the site. Returning to the capital, you will be driven to Mercado Roma for lunch. The market stalls offer organic and gourmet food, where you can choose from options like pozole, traditional tacos, tapas and other Mexican delicacies. After lunch, you'll continue your exploration of one of the coolest neighborhoods in Mexico City, Roma Norte. Do not miss the opportunity to enjoy a churro at the world-famous Churreria el Moro, located in the wonderful Condesa Neighborhood, next to Parque Mexico.

Southern neighborhoods and Xochimilco:

Get to know southern Mexico City ́s cultural gems, visiting the museums and pretty tree-lined streets of San Ángel and Coyoacán, before floating down Xochimilco'ss fiesta-filled waterways. On Saturdays, you'll be able to browse the Bazaar del Sábado, a weekly arts market in San Ángel. Soak up the charm of these pretty neighborhoods as you wander the cobblestone streets and plazas with your guide — you'll notice how they feel more like small villages than part of the big city! Walk in the footsteps of some of Mexico's most revered artists, stepping into the creative world of Frida Kahlo at Casa Azul, the painter ́s beloved home, preserved as it would have been in her mid-20th-century Mexico, and exploring the avant-garde home where Frida lived with husband Diego Rivera, one of Mexico's most famous muralists. At Xochimilco, traverse the ancient canals on a colorful trajinera boat — a replica Aztec-era canoe that was once used to cross the waterways of pre-Columbian Tenochtitlán. Learn about the Aztec's ingenious technique for growing food upon the fertile riverbeds, known as chinampas, and soak up the lively atmosphere. The trajineras are a fun spot for groups of friends and families, so you can expect raucous mariachis, taqueros and beer-slinging vendors aplenty!

Oaxaca night delicacies private experience:

This evening experience in Oaxaca City takes you off the beaten path to a local mezcal spot before savoring the city's famous night delicacy, the grilled tlayuda! You'll begin at a great hole-in-the-wall mezcalería, where you can taste a variety of the distinctive smoky spirit and learn firsthand about the authentic flavor of the region's endemic agave plant. After soaking up the atmosphere, head to a celebrated local eatery to enjoy a classic Oaxacan Tlayuda, washed down with a cold drink. These large tortillas are thin and crispy, typically smeared with refried beans and finished with a choice of toppings like chicken and beef, stringy Oaxaca cheese, crunchy lettuce and salsa.

Oaxaca City and Monte Alban tour:

Visit Monte Albán, one of the oldest cities in Mesoamerica, known for its importance to the ancient Zapotec and Mixtec people and still considered sacred by shamans today. It was once the capital of the Zapotec nation and, at its peak, one of the most populated Mesoamerican cities. Located in the center of the Oaxaca Valley, it exercised political, economic and ideological control over other communities in the valley and surrounding mountains. Explore the site with your personal bilingual guide who will help you discover its rich political, cultural and economic past. After Monte Albán, you will be driven to beautiful Oaxaca. Walk its cobbled streets, observing its vibrant squares, colonial structures and numerous churches, and learn about Oaxaca’s historical and cultural importance. Visit the central plaza (Zócalo) and visit the largest central market in Oaxaca, where you will learn about the different local handicrafts.

Teotitlan Market visit and cooking class with Zapotec family:

Get to know local traditions on this full-day trip to the pretty town of Teotitlán del Valle with a private guide. Observe the pueblo's remarkable church, with authentic art from the XVI Century, and enjoy emblematic aromas and colors as you explore a local market. You'll have the privilege of visiting the home of a local Zapotec family to see firsthand how Teotitlán's famous woven rugs are made. Many artisans still use the traditional techniques of carding and spinning their own wool, before dying it with natural colors and finally weaving on solid wooden looms. Afterwards, stay at the family home as a special guest to take part in an authentic Oaxacan cooking class and enjoy your creations for lunch.

Pujol: Renowned for its innovative Mexican cuisine and unique mole tasting menu, Pujol is consistently ranked among the best restaurants in the world.

Quintonil: This Michelin-starred restaurant showcases the best of Mexican ingredients and techniques, offering a tasting menu that is both elegant and flavorful.

Maximo Bistrot: A modern French restaurant with a focus on seasonal ingredients and impeccable service, Maximo Bistrot offers a refined dining experience.

Altér: This Michelin-starred restaurant showcases the best of Oaxacan cuisine, with a focus on innovative techniques and high-quality ingredients.

Casa Oaxaca: A classic Oaxacan restaurant that has been serving traditional dishes for over 30 years. The mole negro is a must-try.

Origen: This modern restaurant offers a creative take on Oaxacan cuisine, with a focus on using local, seasonal ingredients.