Art, Crafts & Design of Mexico

(9 Days - Departs Daily on a Private Basis)
Mexico City, Oaxaca

This private tour is perfect for travelers wanting to experience the extraordinary cultural breadth of Mexico City—from ancient ruins to colonial style and modern architecture—as well as the beauty and traditional arts of colonial Oaxaca.

Begin in exciting Mexico City, the sophisticated and vibrant capital of Mexico. Your expert guide and private driver will show you the very best of the city and provide a wonderful link to the local history and culture as well as the city's phenomenal art and design scene. Visit excellent museums and galleries, such as the Museum of Anthropology, Museo Rufino Tamayo, Museo Jumex and the Mexican Design Museum. Explore a variety of neighborhoods, including those best known for their beautiful residences, colorful markets, art galleries, design boutiques, and highly recommended restaurants. See colorful murals and street art, and contemporary architecture like the Biblioteca Vasconcelos, Museo Soumaya and Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe. Visit historic homes such as Museo Dolores Olmedo, Museo Frida Kahlo and Casa Luis Barragan, known for their unique architecture, interesting design, and fantastic art collections. Explore ruins such as the Templo Mayor, right in the city center, and the pyramids at nearby Teotihuacan. One day, enjoy a private canal cruise through the floating gardens at Xochimilco, and see a performance of the Ballet Folklorico one evening. There will also be time to enjoy the city's beautiful cafes, high-end shops, and excellent dining scene. Other art- and design-focused touring options in Mexico City include the MUJAM toy museum, Museo Franz Mayer, Antiguo Colegio de San Ildefonso, SOMA and Polyforum Siqueiros.

Next, fly to Oaxaca, one of Mexico's best destinations for traditional arts. With your private guide, explore the colonial center of Oaxaca—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—including the zocalo, cathedral, food markets and folk art shops. See ornate churches like Santo Domingo, browse contemporary art galleries, visit the Museum of the Cultures of Oaxaca or perhaps explore the Ethnobotanical Garden. During private excursions, explore Oaxaca's surrounding valleys and craft villages. Tour the archaeological ruins of Mitla and visit indigenous markets and craft villages specializing in dying and weaving textiles. Also, visit a mezcal distillery to taste the smoky spirit characteristic of Oaxaca. Another day, visit villages that specialize in black clay pottery, alebrijes (elaborately painted wooden carvings), and embroidery. Also visit Monte Alban, a UNESCO-listed archaeological site with stone temples and great views over the region. If desired, Artisans of Leisure can also arrange market tours, chocolate tastings, or cooking lessons to learn to prepare moles and other local dishes.