Tijuana Street Food Day Trip: Tacos, Markets & Craft Beer

Summary

Walk Tijuana’s busy streets tasting tacos and salsas with locals

You’ll cross from San Diego into Tijuana for a full day of street food—think tacos al pastor, churros dusted in cinnamon, and cold craft beer in a local tap room. With a guide who knows every shortcut and snack stand, you’ll taste your way through markets and side streets before heading back across the border. It’s messy, lively, and you might never look at lunch breaks the same way again.

What’s the experience like?

I still laugh thinking about how quickly everything changed after we crossed into Tijuana. One minute it was the calm order of San Diego, then suddenly the air was thick with grilled meat smoke, horns beeping, and someone selling mango slices dusted with chili right at the corner. Our guide, Mariana, waved us over to a taco stand where the cook was flipping tortillas so fast I felt clumsy just watching. She handed me a taco al pastor—juicy pork, pineapple, salsa that made my lips tingle—and I think I ate it in three bites. I tried to say “gracias” with my mouth full. Didn’t work.

We wandered through alleys and open-air markets where everyone seemed to know Mariana. She’d point out which stalls had the best churros (the cinnamon sugar stuck to my fingers for ages) or which fruit vendor would squeeze lime on your jicama without even asking. There was this older guy at one corner who just nodded at us as we passed—no words, but somehow friendly. The city felt busy but not rushed, if that makes sense? We stopped by the Tijuana Arch for a quick photo but honestly I was more distracted by the smell of fresh corn being boiled nearby.

By late afternoon, we ducked into a tap room for craft beer—cold glass sweating in my hand while outside people argued cheerfully over soccer scores. Mariana told us stories about her childhood here and why she always orders her tacos with extra salsa verde (“it’s not real unless it stings,” she said). The sun started dipping low and I realized I hadn’t checked my phone once all day. That’s rare for me. The border crossing back took a little longer than expected (bring your passport!), but honestly—I still think about that first bite of taco al pastor whenever I’m hungry now.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Tijuana street food tasting tour

• Cross border from San Diego
• Visit Tijuana Arch
• Taste variety of tacos
• Try garnachas and churros
• Explore markets and alleys
• Visit museums along the way
• End at tap room or cantina

Top questions

Is pickup included for this Tijuana street food tour?

Yes, round transportation from San Diego is included in your booking.

Do I need a passport for this day trip to Tijuana?

Yes, you must bring a valid passport to cross the border on this tour.

What kind of food is included on the Tijuana street food tour?

You’ll try tacos (various kinds), garnachas (fried snacks), churros, fruit with lime and chili, plus lunch and drinks are included.

Are drinks included during the tour?

Yes, breakfast, lunch, dinner each include a drink; you’ll also visit a tap room or cantina for beer or margaritas.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?

The tour is generally wheelchair accessible but check ahead as some areas may have limited access.

How many people will be on this day trip?

This experience has a maximum of 12 travelers per group.

Will we visit any landmarks in Tijuana?

You’ll pass by the Tijuana Arch and explore markets and alleys along the way.

Can infants join this tour?

Infants can join; they must sit on laps or ride in a pram or stroller during the trip.

What’s included

Your day includes round transportation from San Diego across the border into Tijuana with all meals—Mexican breakfast with drink to start you off, street food tastings throughout (tacos al pastor, garnachas, churros), lunch with drinks at local spots chosen by your guide, plus dinner before heading back. You’ll also get time in markets and tap rooms or cantinas along with your personalized local guide leading every step.