mexico city: Mystic Markets La Merced & Sonora Culinary Tour

This is a 240-minute walking food tour through two of Mexico City's traditional markets, La Merced and Sonora. The operator stresses that the guides grew up around these markets, selling, buying, eating and celebrating there, so each tour changes with the guide's own stories and favourite flavours. Groups are kept small, with a maximum of 10 participants.

The meeting point is the park in front of the Mexico City museum. From there you walk about 10 minutes through some of the busiest avenues in the city to reach Mercado de la Merced, described as the second largest market in Mexico City. The listing allots around two hours here.

In the neighbourhood markets, away from the tourist traps, you sample around eight stands of artisanal antojitos, drink freshly squeezed juices and sit in humble fondas serving tacos and local seasonal fruit. The tastings add up to roughly a breakfast and a lunch, so come hungry.

The second market is Sonora, known for traditional herbs, remedies, crafts and spiritual traditions. The visit, about 60 minutes, introduces the stories and beliefs that have been part of Mexican culture for generations. The listing describes the market as dedicated to witchcraft and magic.

The tour ends at a small local coffee shop, with a coffee or a pan dulce included, to support small local vendors. If you are full by then, the listing says you can take it to go.

The tour suits curious eaters who like to learn about daily life in the city. The listing says travellers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness and that it is not recommended for those with poor cardiovascular health. Wear comfortable clothes and shoes, bring a bag with a zipper if you need one, and leave pets and professional cameras at home. The tastings and the guide are included; tips and transportation are not.