oaxaca tourist sites

15 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Oaxaca

Written by Bryan Dearsley and Meagan Drillinger Updated Dec 25, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

In the heart of the state of the same name and surrounded by lush tropical vegetation and the high mountains of the southern Sierra Madre, Oaxaca is one of Mexico's most beautiful cities.

Displaying an attractive mix of both Indian and Spanish elements, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers many great sightseeing opportunities and rewarding places to visit. It has successfully preserved its unique character and is a delight to explore thanks to its many attractions. Get your camera ready — every facade and street corner is primed and ready for some serious Instagram content.

First settled as far back as 6000 BCE, it was part of the Aztec empire until the Spanish arrived in 1521 and soon after established the royal city of Oaxaca, a name derived from the original Aztec fortress. In addition to its fine architecture, travelers are drawn here for the city's rich cultural calendar, a highlight of which is the famous Guelaguetza , an Indigenous festival held in July with plenty of traditional dancing, costumes, music, food, and crafts.

To learn more about this and other fun things to do in this beautiful part of Mexico, be sure to refer to our list of the top tourist attractions in Oaxaca.

1. Oaxaca Cathedral

2. squares and markets: zócalo and mercado benito juárez, 3. church of santo domingo de guzmán, 4. monte albán, 5. the basilica of our lady of solitude, 6. the rufino tamayo museum, 7. museo casa juárez: fit for a president, 8. the ex-monastery of santiago apóstol, 9. san jerónimo and santa maría del tule, 10. cultural centre of oaxaca, 11. oaxaca ethnobotanical garden, 12. museum of contemporary art & textile museum, 13. hierve el agua, 14. day trips from oaxaca, 15. celebrate the day of the dead, where to stay in oaxaca for sightseeing, map of attractions & things to do in oaxaca.

Construction of Oaxaca Cathedral — the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption (Catedral Metropolitana de Nuestra Señora de la Asunción) — began in the mid-16th century and lasted almost 200 years.

Situated on the northwest side of the city's main square, the Zócalo , the cathedral is notable for its sturdy building style with its two low towers, rebuilt in their present style after being destroyed by an earthquake in 1931, a not-uncommon occurrence in the region.

The original clock, the mechanism of which is completely carved from wood, was presented to the church by the King of Spain upon its completion, just one of a number of attractive features of its pleasant Baroque façade with its finely worked figures and bas-reliefs on its columns.

The interior of this top Oaxaca tourist attraction is also worth seeing due to its Neoclassical influences; its eight finely-engraved glass windows; and the organ, parts of which date back to 1712.

Address: Av Independencia S/N, Centro, 68000 Oaxaca, OAX

Squares and Markets: Zócalo and Mercado Benito Juárez

Many of the most important of Oaxaca's best places to visit are to be found in the city's historic downtown core, an area centered around its central square, or Zócalo: the Plaza de Armas .

In addition to its attractive bandstand, its beautiful old trees, and countless cafés, it is here that many of the city's most important festivals and events are held, including the extremely colorful Fiesta de Rábanos — quite literally, the Night of the Radishes — which takes place here on December 23rd each year with festivities such as fireworks, dances, and parades spilling over to Christmas (and yes, there's even a radish-carving contest).

Another important focal point is Mercado Benito Juárez, a colorful covered market that is especially lively on Saturdays when local Indios flock here to buy and sell everything from produce and woven articles to earthenware and leather goods.

Other colorful markets include the daily Mercado de Abastos and the Mercado de Artesanias with a focus on textile goods.

The splendid Church of Santo Domingo de Guzmán (Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzmán), a Dominican church founded in 1575, is well worth taking the time to explore. Along with the adjoining convent — home to the must-visit Cultural Centre of Oaxaca — this impressive structure was built with two-meter-thick walls to make it almost completely earthquake-proof.

Notable for its numerous niches filled with statues, set along its impressive Baroque façade, this large church complex boasts interior walls and ceilings festooned with a wealth of gilded ornamentation and bright sculptures, creating an overall impression that's more palace than church. This is offset a little, though, by the many rustic statues that lend the nave and chapels a distinctive Mexican tone.

Also of interest, in the ceiling above the entrance, is a vine from whose golden branches and leaves grow 34 portraits depicting the family tree of St. Domingo de Guzmán, founder of the Dominican order who died in 1221.

Other highlights include its 11 chapels, the largest and most beautiful being the Rosary Chapel (Capilla de la Virgen del Rosario), which has its own choir and sacristy, and a lavishly decorated altar with a figure of the Virgin Mary that's considered a jewel of Mexican Rococo.

Address: Calle Constitución #101, Centro, 68000 Oaxaca, OAX

The historic settlement of Monte Albán (Zona Arqueológica de Monte Albán), just eight kilometers west of Oaxaca and easily accessible by tour bus or taxi, covers an area of some 40 square kilometers and for 2,500 years was an important place of worship for a number of different population groups.

The center of the ruins, rising on a man-made platform 400 meters above the Oaxaca Valley, is possibly Latin America's oldest and most impressive Pre-Columbian site. Founded in the sixth century BC, the city was once home to some 35,000 people in its heyday.

Highlights include the spectacular Grand Square (Gran Plaza) measuring 200 meters wide by 3,300 meters long and forming the center of the archaeological ruins, along with the Ball Court (Juego de Pelota), a number of large pyramids, and a palace with an inner courtyard and cruciform tomb.

Expect to spend the best part of a day exploring the ruins and the Monte Albán Ruins Museum with its many sculptures, ceramic figures, jewelry, and displays relating to the excavation of the site.

If time allows, you may also want to include nearby San José Mogote on your list of pre-Columbian sites to visit.

The Basilica of Our Lady of Solitude (Basílica de Nuestra Señora de la Soledad), dedicated to the patron saint of Oaxaca, was constructed of green cantera, a stone unique to the area, between 1682 and 1690 and is one of the city's finest religious sites.

In addition to its attractive atrium built from limestone blocks surrounded by a covered walkway, it's also notable for its figure of the Virgen de la Soledad with her black robe of velvet embroidered with gold and other precious stones, including a large pearl on her forehead. Also of interest is the old Baroque organ, built in 1686 and which is still in regular use.

Other notable nearby churches include San Felipe Neri with its many elaborate altars, San Juan de Dios with an Indian depiction of the conquest, and San Agustin , notable for its façade reliefs of St. Augustine.

Address: El Calvario 107, Centro, 68000 Oaxaca, OAX

The Rufino Tamayo Museum (Museo Rufino Tamayo), presented to the state by famous Mexican artist Tamayo, lies in an old palace just a short walk away from the Zócalo .

In addition to displaying archaeological objects from Mexico's many Indian cultures, this rich collection of Pre-Columbian art was established to ensure the more than 1,000 historic artifacts collected over Tamayo's lifetime remained intact and safe from illegal traders.

Also worth a visit is the Graphic Arts Institute of Oaxaca (Instituto de Artes Gráficas de Oaxaca, or IAGO), founded by another Mexican artist, Francisco Toledo, and containing numerous fine paintings from across Latin America, as well as a cultural center, a library with many rare manuscripts, and a music library.

Address: Av Morelos 503, Centro, 68000 Oaxaca, OAX

The humble looking home at García Vigil 609, now a museum, is famous in Mexico for being the place where much revered President Benito Juárez lived as a servant from 1818 until 1828. Don't be deceived by the home's rather plain exterior.

Inside, the complex opens up into a large central courtyard and houses Museo Casa Juarez , a large museum containing related memorabilia (the President was in fact born in 1806 in nearby Guelatao).

Fun activities include exploring the museum's portrayal of the daily life of both working and middle classes in the 19th century, as well as the period furnishings in the dining room and kitchen.

Also interesting is the Oaxaca Stamp Museum (Museo de la Filatelia Oaxaca), a fun little attraction that features collections of stamps and artworks from local surrealist artists, along with a gift shop and patio café.

Address: Calle de Manuel García Vigil 609, Centro, 68000 Oaxaca, OAX

Just 12 kilometers south of Oaxaca is the small town of Cuilapan de Guerrero , once famous for manufacturing cochineal, a brilliant red dye made from the insects of the same name. These days, the town is an important tourist destination thanks to the splendid old Church and Ex-monastery of Santiago Apóstol.

This enormous hillside structure was started in 1555 and is notable for its Renaissance façade and two inner colonnades, part of which collapsed in an earthquake, and a stone pulpit reached by a small flight of steps.

Although abandoned in 1663, its three-meter-thick walls have stood the test of time, as have the murals in the entrance depicting the history of the order. The terrace on the second floor, where the monks' cells were located, offers great views, and, on the rear wall, an interesting stone plaque bears both the Pre-Columbian calendar inscription "10 reeds," as well as the Christian year 1555.

In the church, the only part of the complex still used, the most interesting feature is the tomb of the last Zapotec princess, the daughter of the ruler Cocijo-eza.

A short drive east of Oaxaca is the small village of Santa María del Tule, famous for the ancient Tree of Tule (El Arbol del Tule). This massive cypress tree, 40 meters wide and 42 meters tall, stands in front of a charming little church and is estimated to be around 2,000 years old.

A farther 10 kilometers away is the equally interesting town of Tlacochahuaya , home to the 16th-century San Jerónimo Church. Highlights include its richly decorated interior crammed full of colorful paintings created by local Indians who portrayed their artistic and religious ideas with paintings of stars, flowers, birds, suns, and angels.

The Cultural Centre of Oaxaca (Centro Cultural Santo Domingo), also often referred to as the Regional Museum of Oaxaca (Museo Regional de Oaxaca), is housed in the former convent Church of Santo Domingo de Guzmán.

One of the top places to visit in Oaxaca, this must-see attraction is well regarded for its excellent collections related to native culture, as well as for its ecclesiastical and secular exhibits from the colonial period. The superb ethnological collection includes costumes, masks, jewelry, ceremonial, and household implements belonging to the Indian tribes from the region, together with archaeological finds from surrounding ruins.

The highlight of the archaeological exhibition is the Mixtec treasure trove of gold, jade, turquoise, and other semi-precious stones found in 1932 in nearby Monte Albán , and from which elaborate bracelets, necklaces, earrings, breastplates, and masks were produced. Historical documents and items from the old church and the convent, including the refurbished old Spanish kitchen, are also of interest.

A fun thing to do in summer and spring when its gardens are in full bloom, Oaxaca Ethnobotanical Garden (Jardín Etnobotánico de Oaxaca) sits on nearly 2.5 acres adjacent to the Church of Santo Domingo de Guzmán, and is well worth adding to your travel itinerary.

Created by a group of local artists known for their work with other Oaxaca cultural attractions, the garden sets out to explore the important relationship between we humans and the plant life that surrounds us.

With a particular focus on the state of Oaxaca — both its people and its plants — this attractive and easy-to-navigate garden occupies a part of the old monastery grounds and opened to great fanfare in 1998. Highlights include a wide variety of native species, a rescue area, medicinal plants, as well as species used for centuries in traditional recipes. English-language guided tours are available.

If botany is your thing, consider a visit to Benito Juárez National Park. Located just five kilometers outside the city, it was founded in 1937 and covers a massive 7,000 acres of land and features a mix of pine and oak forests, as well as tropical deciduous trees. A number of hiking paths are available to explore.

Address: Reforma Sur n, RUTA INDEPENDENCIA, Centro, 68000 Oaxaca de Juárez, Oax

The Museum of Contemporary Art , or MACO — Museo de Arte Contemporaneo de Oaxaca — is a must-visit in Oaxaca for art lovers. With a broad mandate to showcase contemporary art from across the world with traditional local art, MACO features an eclectic array of paintings from locals including Rufino Tamayo and Francisco Toledo, along with creations in disciplines such as graphic art, sculpture, and pottery.

The building itself-an old colonial affair built in the late 1600s-is a delight to explore, whether as part of a guided tour or on your own.

Also of interest is the city's Textile Museum (Museo Textil de Oaxaca). Highlights of what's regarded as one of the top free things to do in Oaxaca include exploring colorful displays of the region's traditional textile crafts, a mix of permanent and visiting exhibits - including examples from abroad - as well as workshops, lectures, films, and a well-stocked library.

Guided tours are available, and a shop is located on-site selling examples of local textiles and related goods.

Address: Calle Macedonio Alcalá 202, Centro, 68000 Oaxaca de Juárez, Oax., Mexico

Deep in the jungle-covered mountains outside Oaxaca is a stunningly beautiful natural surprise. From a distance, it looks like a frozen waterfall, flowing in perpetuity from the side of a staggering cliff. In reality, this is Hierve El Agua, a petrified waterfall and series of small, natural pools - and yes, you can swim in them!

Hierve El Agua, which translates to "boiling water," was created from mineral water that pushed through the limestone rock and deposited the seemingly frozen falls over the mountain's edge. The two mineral pools that are at the top of the falls are yellowish in color thanks to the small amount of sulfur in them.

Today Hierve El Agua is one of the top tourist attractions in Oaxaca, but in the past, the effervescent springs were used to supply water to canals and terraces that led down into the valley.

The best way to visit the site is to get there early before the tour buses show up. That way you may even have the entire site to yourself. However, the easiest way to visit Hierve El Agua is to sign up for a tour.

Given Oaxaca's subtropical location in the beautiful Oaxaca Valley, there are many fun day trips and excursions to the splendid countryside surrounding the city. One of the nicest short trips is to the town of Dainzú , just 20 kilometers east of Oaxaca and the location of a settlement inhabited from about 500 BCE until 1400 CE.

One of the most important of its buildings has a pyramid-shaped base and is built in a style similar to that of the north platform at Monte Albán. A few miles farther is Lambityeco with a small pyramid along with seven ancient tombs, including one with two heads and names chiseled into its façade.

Another small town worthy of a road trip is Huijazoo , just a short drive north of Oaxaca , where nine tombs were discovered, the most remarkable being Tomb 5, notable for the serpent mask forming its entrance and an interior furnished with sculpted columns and colored murals depicting rulers or priests and dating from the 8th to the 10th centuries.

Finally, be sure to visit the ruined site of Mitla, on the edge of the village of the same name, just 40 kilometers to the east of Oaxaca's city center. One of Mexico's most famous archaeological attractions, this fascinating site includes elaborate stone ornamentations unsurpassed in the history of Mesoamerica. Sightseeing highlights include the Hall of Columns with its altar, and the Patio de las Grecas , a small inner courtyard surrounded by long narrow rooms where the city's high priest lived.

Day of the Dead, or Dia De Los Muertos, is one of the most important traditional celebrations in the country of Mexico. All across the country, Mexicans celebrate this special time of year when, legend has it, the souls of departed loved ones return back to Earth. It's not a time for mourning, but a time for joy and celebration.

Oaxaca's Day of the Dead celebration is one of the most vibrant and colorful in Mexico. During the festival, the streets come alive with parades, large-scale art, and giant puppets. At night, families gather at the local cemeteries and decorate the graves with candles and vibrant, orange marigold flowers.

All throughout the city, visitors will see the beautifully decorated altars dedicated to departed family members. The altars are strewn with colorful flags, photographs, and offerings like favorite food and beverages.

Another image you'll see all over the city is the image of La Catrina, the skeleton woman dressed all in black. It's common for men and women to have their faces painted to look like La Catrina, so you may see hundreds of people with magical face and body paint wandering the streets.

It is truly one of the most vibrant and culturally significant festivals in the entire country, and no place celebrates quite like Oaxaca. Day of the Dead runs from October 31 through November 2.

We thoroughly recommend these conveniently located hotels in Oaxaca that are handy to the city's attractive historical center:

Luxury Hotels :

A favorite for those seeking good luxury accommodations in Oaxaca, Hotel La Casona De Tita is a colonial-style boutique hotel with a peaceful central courtyard and a delicious breakfast.
The elegant Quinta Real Oaxaca is another good choice and comes with a great garden swimming pool, a top restaurant, and charming rooms with high ceilings.
The focal point of Hotel Palacio Borghese is its beautiful central courtyard, complete with ample seating and a fountain, along with its lovely spacious rooms and proximity to the heart of the old city.

Mid-Range Hotels :

The three-star boutique hotel, Casa de Siete Balcones , is not only affordable, but also offers quality accommodations in a historic center location in a beautiful old building, and fresh flowers.
Another great boutique hotel to consider is the XTILU Hotel featuring spa services; quality rooms with large, attractive en-suites; and complimentary breakfast.
Casona Oaxaca is another good option, boasting a great location, a charming courtyard, and laundry service.

Budget Hotels :

A budget hotel that's worth a look is the Holiday Inn Express Centro Historico Oaxaca , popular for its mid-range pricing, modern style, comfortable beds, hot tub, and outdoor pool.
Also popular are Hotel Las Golondrinas , located in a quiet neighborhood and offering a peaceful garden to relax in, along with cozy rooms; and Suites Regente , which offers a choice of brightly decorated and spacious family rooms and suites.

More on Mexico

Oaxaca Travel Guide

Courtesy of Maria Swärd | Getty Images

7 Best Things To Do in Oaxaca

Updated May 8, 2023

Oaxaca contains a lot of what you'd expect from a city vacation – a bustling square with coffee shops, restaurants and bars ( the Zócalo ), gorgeous churches ( Templo de Santo Domingo ) and interesting museums ( Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca ). But

All Things To Do

The Zócalo The Zócalo free

Oaxaca's main square – formally referred to as the Plaza de la Constitución de Oaxaca, but colloquially called the Zócalo – is a must-see. Skirted by cafes and eateries and bounded by the Palacio de Gobierno (the State Government Palace) on its south side, the Zócalo is a prime spot for people-watching, picking up a souvenir or two and watching day fade into vibrant night. Thanks to its leafy landscaping and many trees, it's also a relaxing place to cool off in the shade. Plus, the Mercado Benito Juárez sits just minutes from the square.

Recent visitors gushed about the Zócalo, saying it's a nice spot for an afternoon coffee or an evening margarita. Others suggested visiting at night when the Zócalo fills with live music. You'll find the Zócalo in the heart of Oaxaca; it is free to enjoy at all hours of the day (though businesses operate on their own hours). For more information, check out Visit Mexico's website .

Templo de Santo Domingo Templo de Santo Domingo free

Dating back to 1555, the Templo de Santo Domingo acted as a convent and church before being used as military barracks in the 19th and 20th centuries. Today, the convent portion of the building contains the Santo Domingo Cultural Center's Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca and botanical garden. But the real feast for the eyes is the church itself, which is outfitted in baroque design, applied in gold leaf and other rich materials. And don't forget to look up: The domed ceiling is covered in medallions featuring Catholic martyrs.

Even visitors who have traveled extensively and seen many of the world's most beautiful churches say the Templo de Santo Domingo wins the prize. The ceiling, they say, is unparalleled.

Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca

The Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca is a regional culture museum that walks visitors chronologically from ancient times all the way to modern-day Oaxaca. Other halls are thematic, featuring Oaxacan medicine, music, language and pottery – and show that much of the cultural traditions have endured. One of the museum's real gems is the "Treasure of Tomb 7," a cache of delicate gold jewelry, precious stones and carved bone discovered in a Monte Albán tomb. Keep in mind that the museum's signage is in Spanish, though there are audio tours available in English. Visitors should also take some time to visit the museum's gift shop, which contains a diverse collection of books on Oaxacan architecture and art.

Some recent travelers said they almost didn't add the Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca to their itineraries, but were pleased they did: Many were pleasantly surprised with its offerings, citing the stunning architecture and the fascinating and well-executed exhibits. Recent visitors also recommended popping by the museum's gift shop and enjoying the second-floor balcony's view overlooking the botanical garden.

Popular Tours

Hierve el Agua, Tule Tree, Mitla and Mezcal Distillery Tour

(637 reviews)

from $ 45.00

Only Hierve el Agua and Mezcal Distillery Tour

(273 reviews)

from $ 50.00

Monte Alban Guided Half Day Tour

(338 reviews)

from $ 33.93

Monte Albán Monte Albán

Monte Albán, literally "White Mountain," contains the preserved ruins of a Zapotec city. Travelers will find pyramids, temples, plazas and more atop this mountain, which rises 1,300 feet above the floor of the Oaxaca Valley. For a deeper understanding of the city, which became a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1987, travelers can book a tour guide on-site. Keep in mind that the official licensed guides will wear a badge from the Mexico Secretary of Tourism.

Many travelers give Monte Albán top marks for its preserved structures and the accompanying museum, but they also highly recommend wearing comfortable shoes and bringing plenty of water since this outdoor attraction gets hot. Other travelers recommend booking a tour with an English-speaking tour guide, since the bilingual or trilingual tours can get a little long. Though, if you want to see the site at your own pace (and save a little coin), you'll find informational signs are posted in English, as well as Spanish.

Hierve el Agua Hierve el Agua

Hierve el Agua – Spanish for "the water boils" – are natural mineral springs located on a clifftop, about a 90-minute drive from Oaxaca City. Along with swimming in the warm springs, visitors can hike on paths above and below Hierve el Agua's petrified mineral falls.

Recent visitors raved about the beautiful views and warm springs, though they warn that travelers should be prepared for some strenuous hiking and strong sunshine. Some recommend hiring a tour to serve as both the transportation and guide, which can be booked at most Oaxaca City hotels .

Andador de Macedonia Alcala Andador de Macedonia Alcala free

The Andador de Macedonia Alcala or Calle Macedonio Alcala, as it's sometimes known, is a pedestrian-friendly street that connects the Templo de Santo Domingo and the Zócalo . This north-to-south route is a great way for travelers to orient themselves with the city, especially since many of the top things to do are located in close proximity to it.

Recent visitors call it a lovely walk, punctuated by Colonial architecture, interesting shops and restaurants, the sound of music, and little to no motorbike or vehicle traffic. It's also extremely well-lit and feels very safe, according to other travelers.

Benito Juarez Market Benito Juarez Market free

To get a taste of Oaxaca, visitors should head to the Benito Juarez Market (Mercado Benito Juárez). Different stalls purvey everything from crickets and mole to grilled meats and homemade tortillas to mezcal and cheeses. Stalls also contain handicrafts and souvenirs.

Most travelers say the Benito Juarez Market is a great place to grab lunch, sample local specialties and get an authentic Mexican market experience. Others say the market feels a bit touristy, but that it's still an interesting place to stop by.

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This Mexico Hot Spot Was Just Named the Best City in the World by T+L Readers — Here's How to Plan the Perfect Trip

Oaxaca is the No. 1 city in the world, according to T+L readers. Here is a rundown of the best things to do.

The Best Hotels and Resorts

Best things to do, best shopping, best restaurants, best times to visit, how to get there, how to get around.

Stephanie Pollak/Travel + Leisure

Boasting an endless supply of mezcal and mole, Oaxaca de Juárez is undoubtedly one of the ultimate food and drink destinations on the planet. So, it's perhaps no surprise that in Travel + Leisure's 2023 World's Best Awards , it was named the best city in the world . (The city is commonly referred to as Oaxaca, but shouldn't be confused with the eponymous state it's a part of.)

This dynamic city in southwestern Mexico is home to vibrant culture, beautiful weather, and some of the country's most iconic architecture. "The most remarkable thing about Oaxaca is the deep presence of this pre-Colombian culture in all aspects of contemporary life — the mingling and mixing of Indigenous, Spanish, and contemporary Mexican influences are unique and unforgettable," said Zachary Rabinor , a member of T+L's A-List of travel advisors and the CEO of Journey Mexico .

You could spend several weeks here and not even scratch the surface — if you weren't planning correctly, that is. "Oaxaca is a quintessential and magical destination that combines culture, nature, and adventure, with a year-round spring-like climate due to its idyllic location nestled into a fertile valley of the Sierra Madre Sur Mountains," Rabinor said. "It offers a charming, pedestrian-friendly UNESCO World Heritage Site City Center with impressive architecture, museums, markets, restaurants, shopping, and nightlife, while the surrounding valleys harbor incredible Indigenous villages that conserve century-old artisan traditions, dress, language, culture, and lifestyles."

To that end, we've compiled a list of the best things to do, see, and sip while exploring this exciting part of the world.

Oaxaca features all manner of lodging, ranging from unassuming bed-and-breakfasts to historic converted convents, all the way up to the most opulent and palatial of modern luxury. You'll find a little bit of each in this city.

Hotel Casa Santo Origen

If you're not afraid to spend a few hundred per night, you can enjoy the modern boutique beauty of Hotel Casa Santo Origen . Just 15 minutes from the city center, each of the eight suites in this small hotel is named after a unique region of the state of Oaxaca, and decorated with local art.

Book Now: Hotels.com | Expedia | Trip Advisor

Quinta Real Oaxaca

If you want something more old-fashioned, check in at Quinta Real Oaxaca — a 16th-century nunnery retaining a thorough throwback charm without sacrificing modern amenities. The property boasts views of courtyards and the streets of Oaxaca and even has an idyllic garden pool.

Casa Silencio

If you'd prefer to stay in the heart of mezcal country, you'll want to book your stay at the stunning Casa Silencio , which is about an hour outside of Oaxaca. This upscale shrine to agave features multilevel guest rooms, a spa, and Michelin-caliber cuisine and mixology. And, oh yes, a working distillery pumping out the native liquid.

Downtown Oaxaca

Within Oaxaca, Rabinor said taking a day to leisurely explore the city center and downtown is the way to go. "Take your time strolling through the market and be sure to try pan de yema con chocolate ," Rabinor said. "Find a spot in one of the many plazas and enjoy people-watching, as it's not uncommon to witness a colorful calenda (street procession) happening at any time of the week. These processions are part of the numerous festivals that celebrate various personal and communal events in the lives of the local community."

Hierve el Agua

When it's time for sightseeing beyond the city, one of the top natural wonders to explore is Hierve el Agua . These calcareous rock formations in San Lorenzo Albarradas look as if a waterfall has been frozen to the side of a cliff. Established hiking paths bring you right up to the cascade's edge. If you're looking to take a dip in the human-made pools, aim to get there early to avoid crowds.

Susmita Baral/Travel + Leisure

Monte Albán

Perched atop a 1,300-foot tall plateau, Monte Albán is a UNESCO World Heritage Site containing a well-preserved terraced pyramid and other pre-Columbian cultural artifacts. Much of what you'll explore here was built by the Zapotecs, an Indigenous people who are thought to have settled in the region as early as 800 B.C.E. It is the second-largest ceremonial site in all of Central America. "Monte Albán is not only a treasure of ancient history, but also a UNESCO World Heritage Site that holds significant importance in understanding the cultural heritage of Oaxaca and the surrounding region," Rabinor told T+L.

Mezcal Experiences

Mezcal is a distilled agave spirit traditional to the Oaxacan region. It has been made here for centuries using techniques that have largely resisted the prying hands of modern machination. Whether you drink or don't, a mezcal experience is an enriching experience. Rabinor noted that it supports local communities that rely on the industry, helps people "understand the hard work and history that goes behind producing [mezcal], and lets travelers 'learn and appreciate one of the world’s most complex spirits.'" Running down the many palenques — farm distilleries — where it is made and the enchanting sipping parlors where it is served would require an entirely separate article. ( In fact, this is a good one right here. ) But assuming you're starting your liquid journey in the city of Oaxaca, these are four tasting opportunities you should not skip over: Mezcalería In Situ for a broad collection of bottles and emphasis on education; El Distilado to enjoy how mezcal pairs with the local cuisine; and Selva Oaxaca to see how it mixes into artisanal cocktails. For a sip with a view, take your thirst to the rooftop of Puro Burro , a hip watering hole founded by native agave impresario, Asis Cortes — the man behind Mezcal Dixeebe .

Oaxacan Beaches

The state of Oaxaca is home to over 300 miles of coastline, so there are plenty of beaches to explore on a weekend getaway. Puerto Escondido , for example, is amassing a lot of tourist attention from beachgoers these days. (A flight from OAX to Puerto Escondido — PXM — is about 45 minutes.)

There's also Mazunte, with its cerulean surf crashing into the jagged shore. (Check out the Mexican Turtle Center in town, dedicated to the preservation of everyone's favorite slow-moving reptile.) And if you want to speed things up a bit, head several miles east along the coast to the town of Zipolite . There are powerful waves pummeling this sand, popular with surfers. Though others opt to simply lay and tan, enjoying the sunset over surrounding cliffs. Or you can snorkel the protected coral reefs of neighboring Huatulco National Park.

Oaxaca is filled with small boutiques with handmade goods for every budget. Mercado 20 de Noviembre is a market with goods like sandals, bags, homeware, and more.

Rabinor recommended not skipping the artisan communities outside of town, such as San Martín Tilcajete, San Bartolo Coyotepec, and Teotitlan del Valle. "[This is] where skilled communities create exquisite works of art, including colorful alebrijes (wooden figurines), intricate black pottery, and vibrant textiles," he said.

For food, consider stopping by Mercado de Abastos. You can book a tour of the market through the area's most popular guide: Omar Alonso . "This is where locals go to buy everything," Alonso told T+L. "During holidays, it's particularly packed as we gather the ingredients we'll need to offer to our guests that come during the festivities." And for mezcal, visit Mezcaleria Cuish for both a drink and some bottles to-go.

You'll want to savor the world-class cuisine offered throughout Oaxaca and you'll have no trouble finding it when you're strolling the streets.

Mercado 20 de Noviembre

The hub's bustling market scene is a great place to absorb a bit of everything. Mercado 20 de Noviembre is famous for its variety of food stalls featuring everything from baked goods and pastries to an entire aisle of roasted proteins: "El Pasillo de las Carnes Asadas." Here, you can order trays of meat that get cooked fresh in front of you. For something smaller and more vegetarian-friendly, explore Mercado Organico La Cosecha .

Cesar Rodriguez/Bloomberg via Getty Images

Restaurante Casa Oaxaca

If you're craving more of a sit-down experience, make a reservation at Casa Oaxaca's restaurant from chef Alejandro Ruiz. Absolutely order the tableside guacamole and explore Oaxacan cuisine with dishes like mole negro , and coloradito .

One of the top-rated restaurants in the city is Origen , helmed by 2016 Top Chef winner Rodolfo Castellanos. Pro tip: try the grilled octopus and chicharrones.

El Lechoncito de Oro

Be sure to save room for El Lechoncito de Oro , which is open nightly from 8 p.m. until … whenever. This unassuming tented stall is an after-hours institution. They specialize in mouth-watering seared pork tacos covered in crispy pork rinds and spicy salsa verde.

Bar La Giralda

"Every time I'm [in Oaxaca], I must stop into Bar La Giralda for my favorite michelada on the planet," author Javier Cabral, who co-wrote "Oaxaca: Home Cooking From The Heart Of Mexico," told T+L . "They use pasilla chiles in the base. The more you drink, the more botanas [snacks] arrive."

Read More : Where to Eat and Drink in Oaxaca, According to People Who Are Obsessed With Eating and Drinking in Oaxaca

Oaxaca is a big state — a little larger than the state of Indiana — occupying several tropical and subtropical climates. The temperature can vary wildly depending on where you're visiting and when. "The best time to visit Oaxaca depends on your preferences for weather, cultural events, and crowd levels," Rabinor said.

The good news is that it's almost always pleasantly warm and abundantly sunny. The one exception is the rainy season, which extends from May into September. Rabinor said that while the rainy season "brings occasional showers and higher humidity" it also "offers lush landscapes and fewer visitors.

July is a popular month, according to Rabinor, that can be crowded since it overlaps with the cultural festival of Guelaguetza , also called the Lunes del Cerro or "Mondays on the Hill."

Gabriel Perez/Getty Images

Early November is also a perennially popular time to visit. The weather is dependably inviting, as it's the start of the dry season, which extends through April. You'll also experience Día de los Muertos celebrations, bringing mirth, marigold, and mesmerizing pageantry into the streets of cities and villages throughout the country. Even if you miss these particular festivities, arrive sometime between fall and spring break, and you'll leave with little to no regrets.

Read More : The Best Time to Visit Mexico for Good Weather and Affordable Prices

Oaxaca is most easily reached through Xoxocotlán International Airport (OAX) — a smaller-sized airport. Direct service from the United States arrives by way of Los Angeles, Dallas, and Houston. One way to snag a bargain fare is to fly into Guadalajara (GDL) or Mexico City (MEX), and then take a domestic carrier to OAX.

Oaxaca is a walkable city so you don't need to rent a car. While a vehicle is helpful when visiting sites outside of the city, like Hierve el Agua, you can opt for a local car service to drive you to farther destinations. Should you want transportation from point A to point B within the downtown, cabs are readily available. To get to and from the airport, you can take a taxi, bus, or rental car.

Visit Oaxaca: Top 31 Things To Do and Must-See Attractions

Things to do in oaxaca city: the 31 best places to visit in 2024.

Oaxaca de Juarez is one of the most beautiful cities in Mexico, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s the capital of Oaxaca state , a region rich in cuisine, art, history, and archaeological sites.

If you want to enjoy your stay in Oaxaca to the fullest, you’ve come to the right place. In this ultimate guide to Oaxaca , I’ll show you the best things to see and do in the city and its surroundings.

You’ll find my tips and advice, the 31 must-see attractions and activities in Oaxaca , and my recommended itineraries for 1, 2, or 3 days . I’ll also tell you where to eat and where to stay for any budget.

And if you’re looking for ways to save money on your trip to Oaxaca , I’ve got you covered too!

So, are you ready to discover Oaxaca?

1. The Ethnobotanical Garden

2. temple of santo domingo de guzman, 3. the museum of the cultures, 4. discover the colorful streets of the city, 5. the artistic neighborhood jalatlaco, 6. xochimilco, 7. celebrate the day of the dead, 8. the textile museum of oaxaca.

9. Stamp Museum: A Hidden Treasure in Oaxaca

10. Museum of Oaxacan Painters (MUPO)

11. taste the traditional drinks, 12. the zocalo, 13. having a good hot chocolate, 14. exploring the markets of oaxaca, 15. pasillo de humo (smoke alley), 16. take a cooking class, 17. visiting a mezcal palenque, 18. discover the best mezcal in the city, 19. tasting experience for mezcal lovers, 20. prehispanic museum of oaxaca, 21. art galleries, 22. buying local handicrafts, 23. san martin tilcajete.

24. Santo Tomás Jalieza

25. San Bartolo Coyotepec

26. teotitlán del valle, 27. tlacolula market, 28. monte alban, 29. ex-convent of cuilápam de guerrero, 30. the archaeological site of mitla, 31. hierve el agua, 32. exploring the coast of oaxaca, where to stay in oaxaca – the best hotels in oaxaca, for breakfast, a good croissant, typical oaxacan cuisine, have a good coffee in oaxaca, when to visit oaxaca, cheap hotels in oaxaca, cheap food in oaxaca, my tips to save money in oaxaca, essential tips for your oaxaca adventure, what to do in oaxaca in 1 day, 2 days in oaxaca, 3 days in oaxaca: what to do, is oaxaca safe, tourist map of oaxaca, you’re traveling in mexico these articles will help you.

The ethnobotanical garden is one of the highlights of Oaxaca. It is a botanical garden in the historic center, on the site of the former Santo Domingo convent .

The tour (guided only – lasts 1 hour) lets you explore 2 hectares of plants native to Oaxaca , including some amazing cacti, and learn about their significance and their traditional use by the local people.

Tours at 10 am, 11 am and 12 pm.
Groups are limited to 15 people (there were 2 groups when I went at 10 am: one with a Spanish guide and one with an English guide)
Admission fee 50 pesos.
No reservations: come early.
There is no shade while you wait outside, and not much in the garden either, so bring water .

The Temple of Santo Domingo de Guzman is a place you can’t miss in Oaxaca.

This Dominican convent has had quite a complex history: built from 1551, it also served as a university, but then was occupied for a long time by the military, under different regimes.

It was officially returned to the Church by President Porfirio Diaz in 1902.

With the return of the Dominicans to Oaxaca in 1938, important restoration works began on this magnificent example of the novo-Hispanic baroque .

Today it is a true symbol of the city , widely photographed with its agaves surrounding the building, but you have to go inside to appreciate its architectural and artistic richness.

Church open from 9 am to 10 am and from 5 pm to 6 pm
The church is located on the pedestrian street Andador Turístico (Macedonio Alcalá street), which is the most touristic street of the city.

The Museum of Cultures in Oaxaca, located in the beautiful monastery buildings next to the Santo Domingo church , is a great place to learn about Oaxaca’s history and culture.

It has more than 14,000 objects, including the famous treasure from Tomb 7 at Monte Albán , with gold, silver, jade, and other beautiful artefacts. The museum also has rooms about the colonial period, the independence era, and the modern culture of Oaxaca.

One of the best things about the museum is the amazing view of the Jardín Etnobotánico , so even if you don’t have time to visit it or don’t want to wait in line, you can still enjoy a glimpse of its beauty and diversity from the museum’s windows. 😉

It took me three trips to Oaxaca to finally see this museum, and I’m so glad I did! It’s the best museum in Oaxaca , hands down.

Entrance 90 pesos

Oaxaca is a city with many charming streets to wander.

Besides its colorful facades and the beautiful papel picado that you can see floating in many places, it is also a major destination for street art in Mexico .

Explore the city and you will find small plazas and narrow streets.

Nothing beats Jalatlaco in Oaxaca for me!

It is amazing to see the colorful street art that tells the stories of its people. You can admire the works of local and international artists, such as Lapiztola , Yescka , and Curiot , who use their creativity to transform the walls into canvases.

This neighborhood is a paradise for Instagram lovers, as you can find the most stunning and original murals in Oaxaca, and maybe even in Mexico.

However I like to wander around this neighborhood early in the morning , when I have it all to myself, even if the light does not do justice to the colorful street art , but I don’t care. 😊

Jalatlaco also has a cozy atmosphere, with cobbled streets, quaint cafes, bakeries, and traditional restaurants.

Moreover, a visit to Jalatlaco is not complete without stopping by Once in Oaxaca , a cozy and artistic café-boutique that offers beautiful illustrations on Oaxaca. And their coffee is awesome!

I bought some of these postcards as gifts and everyone loved them. Don’t get me wrong, I adore the traditional crafts of Oaxaca , but it’s nice to have a different kind of souvenir too!

My Advice To fully appreciate the beauty and significance of the murals in Oaxaca , nothing beats having a guide who can share their stories and secrets with you.

That’s why I suggest you book this bike tour that will take you to the most amazing murals, introduce you to their creators, and show you some of their workshops. You can book it right here:

If you want to experience the history and culture of Oaxaca, you should visit Xochimilco , one of the oldest and most charming neighborhoods in the city.

Founded in the 15th century by the Aztec emperor Ahuítzotl, this area is full of colorful murals , quaint cafes, and traditional eateries.

You can admire the stunning street art , visit the 18th century aqueduct San Felipe , and taste the authentic Oaxacan cuisine at Ancestral Cocina Tradicional .

If you are looking for a coffee break, check out the hidden Antique Café or enjoy a good breakfast in a cute terrace at Rupestre or Chepiche Café .

Oaxaca is one of the best places to celebrate the Day of the Dead, a festival that honors the deceased with altars, flowers , and food.

From October 31 to November 2 , you can witness the rich traditions and culture of Oaxaca, as locals welcome back their loved ones’ spirits.

Join a local guide on a tour of the most beautiful altars and flowered streets, from the Santo Domingo church and the Panteon Municipal cemetery , to the festive Xochimilco neighborhood . The tour will end with a dinner on the Ancestral restaurant terrace , with a candlelit city view. Book it here:

The Textile Museum of Oaxaca is a wonderful place to discover the rich and diverse textile traditions of Oaxaca and Mexico.

It is located in a beautiful colonial building that was restored in 2007 . You can admire the variety and beauty of the textiles, from ancient to contemporary, and learn about the techniques and processes involved in their creation.

Next to the museum, you can also visit the Centro Cultural San Pablo , a cultural and academic space located in a historic site that was once the first Dominican convent in Oaxaca .

It celebrates the pluricultural heritage of Oaxaca, especially its indigenous cultures.

9. Stamp Museum: A Hidden Treasure in Oaxaca

A friend of mine suggested me to go there and I had a wonderful time! It is not the usual tourist attraction of Oaxaca, but it’s worth a visit.

The Philatelic Museum of Oaxaca (MUFI) , is a unique and fascinating place for anyone who loves stamps, art, or culture.

This museum has a collection of more than 200,000 pieces from all over the world, including the Penny Black , the first stamp ever issued, and letters written by the famous Mexican painter Frida Kahlo .

I had a blast opening all the drawers and discovering new treasures. But I must confess, as a huge fan of comics and cartoons, nothing could beat the Tintin and Disney collections for me.

The museum is housed in a beautiful colonial building with a patio , where you can relax and enjoy the atmosphere.

Don’t miss the Volkswagen Beetle covered in stamps , a sight to behold! And don’t forget to check out the boutique , where you can find some nice souvenirs (stamps, postcards, magnets, enveloppe seal sets, etc)

The best part is that admission is free , so you can explore this hidden treasure without spending a peso!

Housed in a beautiful colonial building, the Museum of Painters of Oaxaca displays the diversity and richness of Oaxacan art, from traditional to contemporary styles.

You can see paintings, sculptures, murals, and more, by local and international artists.

The admission is technically free, but donations are encouraged. Make sure you have some change with you!

Incredible but true: there are more than 70 traditional drinks in the Oaxaca region !

Among them, you can try tejate , a drink of pre-Hispanic origin prepared with roasted corn, cocoa, mamey bone and Cacahuaxóchil flower, a tree found in the town of San Andrés Huayapam .

Tejate comes from a Nahuatl word that means “floury water”. And it does have a unique texture that reminds me of cocoa butter. It is smooth and creamy.

There is a lady who sells her tejate at the entrance of Casa Mayordomo on Macedonio Alcalá street. You can get a cup for 70 pesos.

The Zócalo in Oaxaca is a must-visit area, known for its lively vibe.

It’s full of terraces, great for eating or enjoying a coffee while people-watching, often accompanied by live music.

The square, also known for the stunning cathedral nearby, is a central spot where both locals and tourists gather. It’s a perfect place to feel the city’s pulse and immerse yourself in the local culture.

While exploring Oaxaca, you’ll likely pass through the Zócalo, especially if you’re headed to popular spots like the Benito Juarez or 20 de Noviembre markets. It’s a central hub that connects many of the city’s key attractions .

You have to try chocolate in Oaxaca !

I sat on the terrace of La Chocolatería Mayordomo in the Zócalo, with a view of the Oaxaca Cathedral and some music.

They have different kinds of chocolate, hot or cold, with milk or water, starting from 35 pesos.

I ordered a hot chocolate with 100% cocoa milk and no sugar (the waiter gave me a doubtful look and warned me that it was very bitter 😂) and I loved it!

They also have several traditional Tlacolula breads and the pan de cazuela (18 pesos) was perfect to go with it.

From the main square, take 20 de Noviembre street : you will arrive at Mercado Benito Juárez and Mercado 20 de Noviembre , which are located next to each other.

Those are two must-see places to visit in Oaxaca with all kinds of local products: good food, clothes, souvenirs, flowers, etc.

I went back several times to Mercado 20 de Noviembre for lunch:

At the famous Pasillo de Humo (which I will talk about in the next point).
The typical Oaxacan combination of “chocote con agua y pan de yema” (30 pesos) at the Comedor Bety.
At the Comedor Típico La Abuelita: Oaxacan tamale with black mole and chicken (40 pesos, huge portion) and the delicious tlayuda (85 pesos).

Just a block away is the Mercado de Artesanías , another great market, this one dedicated to local crafts. And a 5 minute walk away is the Mercado de Abastos which is the largest market in Oaxaca .

The Mercado Orgánico La Cosecha deserves a visit. It is a space with many local and organic products and dishes. Open from 8am to 6pm (closed on Mondays and Tuesdays).

One of the best places to see in Oaxaca is the Pasillo de Humo in the Mercado 20 de Noviembre . It is so famous that there is even a restaurant named after it in the Colonia Condesa in Mexico City .

I had been wanting to go there for a long time and I was blown away by the place. As the name suggests, it is a hallway filled with smoke (and a mouthwatering smell), where they grill meats.

First you pick the meat, then you sit down, and order the extras (tortillas, grilled vegetables) and drinks separately.

We ordered 1/4 tasajo, 1/4 chorizo and 1/4 cecina at Lety’s for only 150 pesos. It was really delicious and more than enough for 2 people (we couldn’t even finish it all! 😅)

Mexican cuisine is a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage and Oaxaca is a true pillar of Mexico’s gastronomic identity. It is the best place to discover its traditional dishes!

I recommend you this amazing tour that includes pick up at your hotel , visit to a local market, making tortillas and typical drinks (with or without alcohol).

Book the food tour here:

Are you a vegetarian? 🌿 No problem! You can book this vegetarian food tour of Oaxaca , which includes a visit to the market and cooking class:

You can also explore Oaxaca’s cuisine on your own. It has many specialties: mole (with chicken or tamale and chicken), tasajo, tlayudas and of course, mezcal.

Mezcal is a traditional Mexican drink produced by fermenting and distilling the agave plant, also known as maguey , and Oaxaca is the largest producer in the country (about 80%).

Obviously, tasting mezcal is one of the best things to do in Oaxaca , and even better if you visit a palenque to see the whole process of making it.

My advice If you have no car, a mezcal tour with hotel pick-up is your best bet!

You will see an agave plantation and two mezcal distilleries, where you can discover the secrets of mezcal production and taste the different varieties .

Book the mezcal tour here:

There are many palenques in Oaxaca , but I chose to visit Lalocura owned by Eduardo “Lalo” Ángeles, who is a living mezcal legend.

When you arrive, they will ask you if you prefer to do just the tasting or also the guided tour . I chose the second option, which I recommend, since that’s the purpose of coming to a producer’s place.

First they take you through the agave fields and then you go to see the whole process of making mezcal .

The agave hearts (called piñas ) are cut and then cooked in an oven.

They are then crushed using human strength…It looked easy, but they´re heavy! 😅

If you get the chance, try a piece of cooked agave , it reminded me of sugar cane.

The paste obtained from the crushed agave is fermented in wooden vats for 3 to 7 days and this fermented juice, called bagasse , is distilled in clay pots.

Finally, we ended the visit with a tasting of 16 mezcals produced right there, with different varieties of maguey (cuishe, madrecuishe, espadín, tobasiche, tobalá, etc.).

And, of course, you can buy a few bottles of mezcals before you go!

I can say without hesitation that they are some of the best products I have ever bought , and at a very good price!

Visit Lalocura:

In Santa Catarina Minas, 50 minutes from downtown Oaxaca.
Tasting 200 pesos, tasting and guided tour 300 pesos per person.
Lalocura’s Instagram

Nothing beats visiting a palenque , a small family-owned distillery outside of Oaxaca , to experience mezcal at its source. But even without a car or much time, you can still savor the amazing mezcal culture in the city by going to a mezcaleria.

Oaxaca has many mezcalerias, bars that specialize in serving mezcal , where you can taste different varieties and learn about their production and history from knowledgeable bartenders.

If you are short on time, I recommend you visit two of my favorite mezcalerias: Sabina Sabe and Mezcalogia.

Sabina Sabe is a casual and welcoming mezcaleria that has won many international awards in recent years .

I have been there many times, even though I usually like to try new places, because: they have a huge variety of mezcals from different local producers, as well as staff who are passionate about their products and happy to share their knowledge with you. I totally understand why their awards keep coming year after year!

Mezcalogia is a colorful and cozy mezcaleria that has a different style from Sabina Sabe. When I went there, there was live music and the bartender was very talkative. He introduced me to great mezcals from small-batch producers, and other spirits from Mexico , such as rum, gin, vodka and whisky.

Another great thing about Mezcalogia, is their tasting formula , which lets you try different mezcals and learn about their producers and flavors. But Sabina Sabe is great for food, especially their lechon tacos !

For more information about both bars and other great options, check out my article: The Best 6 Bars in Oaxaca that you can’t miss !

My advice To buy a few bottles of mezcal , go to Candiza DeliMezcale s in the Benito Juarez market ( Instagram / Facebook ).

You can find many places to taste mezcal in Oaxaca , but if you really want to dive deeper into the history, production methods and ancestral knowledge of this fascinating spirit, the best way is to join this mezcal tasting experience (click here to book!) .

You’ll sample 3 different types of wild mezcal , each with its own unique taste and smell. You’ll also learn how the agave plants are grown and transformed into mezcal, and how each step affects the final product.

By joining this experience, you’ll also support the local producers who make mezcal with passion and respect for nature!

The Prehispanic Museum Rufino Tamayo showcases the amazing collection of pre-Columbian art donated by Rufino Tamayo , one of Mexico’s most famous modern artists, who also has a museum in Mexico City dedicated to his own contemporary art works.

You will be amazed by the diversity and beauty of the ancient sculptures, ceramics, and jewelry from different Mesoamerican civilizations , such as the Maya, Aztec, Olmec, Zapotec, and Mixtec.

The museum also reflects the artistic vision of Tamayo, who chose the colors and layout of each gallery to highlight the artistic value of the pre-Hispanic works.

The Prehispanic Museum Rufino Tamayo is a tribute to Oaxaca, the birthplace of Tamayo , and a celebration of the rich and ancient roots of Mexican artistic expression.

After being closed for three years due to renovations, this great museum finally reopened in 2023!

Mon-sat 10am to 2pm and 4pm to 7pm, sun 10am-3pm

Oaxaca is known for its great artistic wealth , both traditional and modern, reflecting the political and social realities.

That’s why, walking around the city, you will find a vibrant art scene, with many exhibition spaces, workshops, street art.

Something for all art and design lovers.

There are many interesting spaces to visit (and free), for example:

Espacio Zapata : a workshop featuring silkscreen prints and engravings. A space created by the Assembly of Revolutionary Artists of Oaxaca , a collective of artists very committed to social causes. – Monday to Saturday, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Gabinete Gráfico engraving workshop : young artists who have a small workshop and exhibition space. Different engraving techniques and formats.

Instituto de Artes Gráficas de Oaxaca : a beautiful place in a small colonial house, with a green patio, a library and exhibitions. From 9:30 am to 8 pm, closed on Tuesdays.

Oaxaca is a true paradise of traditional Mexican handicrafts .

Of course, you can find all prices and qualities, either in the market or in the small shops in town (although I think it’s best to visit the artisan villages directly, which I will talk about in the next point).

These are some of the shops I recommend:

Andares del arte popular : this shop is really the perfect place as an introduction to Oaxacan handicrafts , as you can find very nice pieces (ceramics, clothes, rugs, etc.) coming from different communities in the region. Mind you, it’s a bit pricey, but looking is free. 🤓

Casa del Artesano Colectivo Familiar : although from the outside it doesn’t look like it, inside it keeps many pieces (clothes, etc.) of a collective of artisans from Oaxaca, of very good quality and at good prices . The lady knows very well all her products and the communities that make them.

Casa Martínez : without a doubt, this is the place to find beautiful handmade rugs from Teotitlán del Valle , of good quality and at a very reasonable price. Prices are around 1300 pesos for a medium size rug. Next door is Marías Arte & Diseño , a modern local design store that is also worth a look.

Around Oaxaca

If you have half a day or a free day , I recommend you visit the artisan villages of Oaxaca .

I was very impressed by the quality of the work, but also by their diversity since several communities have their specialty.

Actually there are many small towns to see in Oaxaca , but these are the ones I had time to visit:

The town is the birthplace of alebrijes , colorful figures that represent fantastic creatures and are an important part of Mexican folk art.

There are simple alebrijes and others that are very complex, which cost more but are worth it for the quality of the work.

There are several workshops and shops in town, some of them very famous like the Taller de Jacobo and Maria Angeles .

I just walked around the streets and stopped at every shop, since the downtown is very small and easy to navigate.

There is another town known for its alebrijes: San Antonio Arrazola , much closer to Oaxaca and Monte Alban .

How to get to San Martin Tilcajete from Oaxaca de Juarez:

By car : 45 minutes on Highway 175.
By public transportation : go to the Central de Abastos and take a bus in the direction of Ocotlán de Morelos and get off at the entrance of the village of San Martín Tilcajete.
With a tour : for a deeper experience of the world of alebrijes , here is an interesting activity that includes pick-up in Oaxaca , learning the process of making alebrijes with a family of artisans and painting your own piece to take home.

Book the tour here:

24. Santo Tomá s Jalieza

It is a community of farmers and artisans who mainly make belts with leather and weaving. There were some shops and studios, but we went straight to the craft market .

It was small, like the village, but we saw some beautiful items at great prices (not just belts, but also bags, scarves, cases, etc.) and met some friendly people.

Actually, this was where we bought the most things . The ladies were also very sweet and happy to see visitors despite the pandemic. 😊

How to get to Santo Tomás Jalieza from Oaxaca de Juárez:

By car : 50 minutes on Highway 175
With a tour : it includes visits to the traditional communities of Ocotlán de Morelos , Santo Tomás Jalieza and San Martín Tilcajete to see their unique crafts.

Reserve your Tour here:

This town is famous for its black clay pottery with a metallic shine (although some pieces also have a matte finish, which I prefer).

About 600 families make it here!

Besides visiting different shops and studios, you can also check out the folk art museum with 2 rooms, one for black clay, and the other for pieces from other regions of Oaxaca (10am-6pm, closed Monday, entry 20 pesos).

How to get to San Bartolo Coyotepec from Oaxaca de Juárez:

By car : 30 minutes on Highway 175.
By public transportation : from the Central de Abastos 30 minutes by bus (or taxi)
With a tour : If you want to enjoy a hassle-free and comfortable tour , you can choose this option that includes hotel pick-up , the archaeological site of Monte Alban , the village of San Antonio Arrazola , the monastery of Cuilapam de Guerrero and the demonstration of black clay making in San Bartolo Coyotepec :

This town is known for its gorgeous rugs , and this is definitely the best place to buy them. They come in all sizes and qualities.

I bought a rug that I LOVE with very nice colors for 1300 pesos. I didn’t want to haggle with the artisan who spent so much time making it . It is a very hard work , involving a lot of time and patience.

I also suggest that you visit the Balaa Xtee Guech Gulal museum , run by the local community .

It is a good way to support them (15 pesos entry fee), and also a chance to see artifacts found in the area , learn about spinning techniques, traditional customs, etc.

I also had a lovely encounter with two gentlemen at the museum who spoke zapotec . They were curious about what language we spoke and we had a nice exchange. It was a charming moment of cultural appreciation.❤️

How to get to Teotitlán del Valle from Oaxaca de Juárez:

By car: 40 minutes on Highway 190
By bus : direct bus (or taxi) from the Central de Abastos
With an organized tour : so you don’t have to worry about transportation, I recommend this tour with pick up at your hotel , visit to Mitla , free time at Hierve el Agua , visit to a mezcal distillery with tasting and stop in Teotitlán del Valle .

You can book the tour here:

One of the most amazing and diverse markets in Oaxaca is the Tlacolula de Matamoros market, which takes place every Sunday.

This market has a long history, dating back to pre-Hispanic times , when women from nearby villages would come here to sell their products. You can find everything from flowers, spices, fruits and vegetables, to handicrafts, animals, and more.

You can also hear the rich variety of local languages spoken here, such as Zapotec , Mixe , Chinantec , and others.

The market is a feast for the senses, with vibrant colors and delicious smells. You can taste all kinds of local delicacies : hot chocolate with pan de cazuela (a type of sweet bread), tlayudas (large tortillas with toppings), cheese, enfrijoladas (tortillas dipped in bean sauce), tacos, and more.

My advice is to go there with an empty stomach so you can enjoy the market😉 to the fullest.

How to get to Tlacolula de Matamoros from Oaxaca:

By car : 40 minutes on Highway 190.
By bus: direct bus from the Central de Abastos or shared cabs from the baseball stadium Eduardo Vasconcelos .
With a tour : you can book this tour that includes pick-up from your hotel , the church (16-17th century) of San Jerónimo Tlacochahuaya, the archaeological site of Yagul and a visit to the Tlacolula market.

Click here to make your reservation:

Monte Alban is a remarkable site: it was founded around 500 BC and became the capital of the Zapotec civilization , one of the first and most influential cities in Mesoamerica .

It is now a World Heritage Site and the most impressive archaeological site in Oaxaca .

Check out my guide:

Monte Albán (Oaxaca): What You Should Know Before You Go!

You can explore the tombs, plazas, stelae, the Palace and the Great Plaza, as well as the museum that has fascinating exhibits.

I highly recommend getting a guide because there is so much to see, and ours was amazing. He was very passionate and helped us appreciate the significance of this ancient city.

Open from 10:00 to 16:00 (last entry at 15:30)
Entrance fee 80 pesos

How to get to Monte Alban from Oaxaca:

By car : 20 minutes on the highway to Monte Alban
By bus : take the bus in front of Hotel Rivera del Angel , it goes directly to Monte Alban (departures every 30 min, from 8 to 15:30)
With a guided tour: you can join a guided tour that includes pick up from your hotel. For example, you can check out this guided tour of Monte Alban or this more comprehensive tour that visits Monte Alban, and the villages of San Antonio Arrazola and San Bartolo Coyotepec .

Cuilápam de Guerrero is a town known for its former Dominican convent of Santiago Apóstol de Cuilápam.

Its construction started in the 16th century, but it was never completed.

It is still one of the most impressive examples of Oaxaca’s colonial architecture.

One of the things you will notice is its open chapel : it has no roof! It was built this way to make it easier to convert the indigenous people, who were used to open religious spaces.

It is only 30 minutes away from Monte Albán and Oaxaca de Juárez
To get to Cuilápam de Guerrero from Oaxaca by public transportation : take the bus from Bustamante Street.

Mitla is the second most important archaeological site in Oaxaca , after Monte Alban .

It became the political and religious center of the Zapotecs after Monte Alban collapsed, and it flourished from the 9th century until 1521, when the Spaniards arrived.

The city consists of 5 architectural groups : the Group of the Columns (the most important), the Group of the Church, the Group of the Adobes, the Group of the Stream and the Group of the South.

Open from 10 to 4pm, except sunday 10h to 2pm
Entrance fee 90 pesos.

How to get to Mitla from Oaxaca:

By car : 1 hour on Highway 190.
By bus : take the bus in front of the baseball stadium Eduardo Vasconcelos (1h) that takes you to the entrance of the town of San Pablo Villa de Mitla .
With an organized tour : you can book this tour (by clicking directly on the link) with pick up at your hotel, visit of Mitla , free visit of Hierve el Agua , visit of a mezcal distillery and stop in Teotitlán del Valle .
If you prefer to explore Mitla on your own and have more flexibility in your itinerary, you can get your skip-the-line tickets (click here!) and save yourself from the rush of a tour schedule

Hierve el Agua is a must-see place in Oaxaca, with its 200-meter high waterfalls and clear pools overlooking the valley.

These waterfalls and pools were formed millions of years ago by mineral deposits. They are an amazing natural wonder and a great spot for taking photos.

You can bring your bathing suit and swim in the pools, and also hike the trails for different views.

Entrance fee 50 pesos.
Open from 7 am to 6 pm every day.
It is best to go first thing in the morning or after 4pm to avoid the crowds.

How to get to Hierve el Agua from Oaxaca:

By car: 1 hour on Highway 179, then 30 minutes on Emiliano Zapata and Reforma to Hierve el Agua
By public transport: there is no direct bus from Oaxaca to Hierve el Agua. You have to take a bus to Mitla (from Eduardo Vasconcelos stadium) 50 min, 18 pesos each way. Ask the driver to drop you off at the bus stop for the combis going to Hierve el Agua. From Mitla to Hierve el Agua is 45 min – 75 pesos each way.
With a tour: this is the easiest option if you don’t want to worry about transportation. This tour to Hierve el Agua includes pick up at your hotel in Oaxaca , guided visit of Mitla , free time in Hierve el Agua , visit to a mezcal distillery (with tasting) and a stop in Teotitlán del Valle .

The Pacific coast of Oaxaca is a great destination for a road trip in Mexico .

You can drive about 6h30 from Oaxaca de Juarez and discover some of the most beautiful beaches in Mexico, with a different vibe than the Caribbean beaches.

With its small towns and surf spots , you can spend several days exploring the region: Playa Zicatela, Zipolite, Playa Salchi, Playa Carrizalillo, Puerto Angelito, Mazunte and Punta Cometa, the beaches of Bahías de Huatulco, etc.

How to get to the coast of Oaxaca:

By car : 6h30 on Highway 131 to Puerto Escondido or 6.15 hours on Highway 175 to Mazunte from Oaxaca de Juarez . Be careful, there are many curves.
By plane : You can fly to Puerto Escondido International Airport or Huatulco International Airport , which have direct flights from Mexico City , Oaxaca and other destinations.

Andaina Youth Hostel: Located in the heart of Oaxaca, only 300 meters from Santo Domingo Church and 800 meters from the Zocalo. Cozy and colorful dormitory or private room with shared bathroom, from 16 $usd per night , breakfast included. Strong points: the friendly atmosphere, the rooftop terrace , the free activities and tours. This is my choice for a budget-friendly hotel in Oaxaca !
Casa Barroco Oaxaca: Elegant room with balcony, just a few steps from the main square in a listed colonial house, with two beautiful patios, from 89 $usd per night . Strong points: the beautiful colonial-style building, the charming garden, the helpful staff.
Casa de Sierra Azul : Located in the historic center of Oaxaca, 200 meters from Santo Domingo Church and 600 meters from the Zocalo. Classic and cozy room with private bathroom, from 140$ usd per night . Strong points: the central location, the bicycles available for guests, the free parking, the delicious breakfast .
Quinta Real Oaxaca: Located in a former convent from the 16th century, 500 meters from Santo Domingo Church and 700 meters from the Zocalo. Elegant room and romantic atmosphere, from 260 $usd per night . Strong points: the stunning architecture, the outdoor pool, the gourmet restaurant. This is my choice for a luxury stay in Oaxaca!

Where to eat in Oaxaca?

Pan:Am is the ideal place for breakfast, and especially the Abasolo branch with its pretty patio. What to try: vegetarian eggs benedict (160 pesos) and the cinnamon and cardamom roll (28 pesos).

Pan:Am Facebook page

Boulenc is the best bakery in Oaxaca, and it gets busy quickly!

You can either take away or dine in.

I was very hungry after the long trip from Mexico City , so I wanted something more filling than a croissant, and I was very happy with my choice!

The pizza was good, but the 3 cheese sandwich was incredibly delicious , to pair with a glass of a good Mexican wine from Baja California 😉

Pan con Madre Pan con Madre was supposed to be a good alternative to Boulenc, but I was not impressed. The bread was mediocre, and the service was worse.

Of course, Mercado 20 de noviembre or Mercado Benito Juárez, which I mentioned earlier in the article, are great places to eat (for example a tlayuda!), but there are also several good restaurants in Oaxaca that are worth a visit:

Las Quince Letras for example, has a lot of charm and offers a good trio of mole

Did You Know? Mole is a sauce with a pre-Hispanic origin that was offered to the gods. It is a complex sauce made with chiles, spices and nuts, and it usually comes with a small piece of meat.

Maguey y Maíz is a restaurant with a lovely indoor terrace, very close to the Santo Domingo church:

Their esferas de queso istmeño , small balls of cheese from the Isthmus of Tehuantepec are delicious.

I would like to try their breakfast next time!

Coffee is a serious matter here. Oaxaca is one of the main coffee producing regions in Mexico : coffee grows in 7 of the 8 regions that make up the state!

Café Brujula, which has a few branches in Oaxaca, is often mentioned in articles, but the 2 premises I visited were a bit “soulless” and gave me the impression of a small local Starbucks with customers working on their laptops.

Fortunately, after several visits to Oaxaca, I’ve discovered some amazing coffee shops that are really worth a visit. Check out my full article on the 7 best cafés in Oaxaca!

The best time to visit Oaxaca depends on your preferences:

Dry Season (October to April) : Enjoy pleasant weather, ideal for outdoor activities. Late October is special due to the Day of the Dead celebrations !
Shoulder Season (July and August) : Experience the vibrant Guelaguetza Festival and summer weather (although it’s rainier). The Guelaguetza showcases traditional dance and music, highlighting the region’s rich cultural heritage.
Low Season (May to June and September to October) : Budget-friendly options with fewer tourists.

How to travel cheap to Oaxaca

If you’re thinking about traveling on a budget to Oaxaca it’s going to be pretty easy because it’s generally a pretty affordable city!

There are several good options for cheap hotels in Oaxaca , with access to the kitchen (perfect for saving money!):

Andaina Youth Hostel – only 21 usd per night.
Casa del Mundo – only 22 usd per night!
Barbario – only 23 usd per night!

Oaxaca has many options for cheap and tasty food.

Many restaurants offer daily set menus (starter+main dish+drink and sometimes dessert) for 50-80 pesos, and they are quite filling!

Another option is to go to the Mercado 20 de Noviembre or Mercado Benito Juárez that I mentioned before. You can find many affordable dishes there.

At night, like in the rest of Mexico, the best way to eat cheap is to try street food. One of my favorite snacks is elote: corn with mayonnaise, cheese, lime and a bit of spice.

Choose your travel dates carefully , as prices vary a lot, especially at the end of July, when the Guelaguetza festival happens. It is a huge celebration that brings together people from all over Oaxaca and visitors from all over the country.
There are many free things to do in Oaxaca : explore the street art, the Zocalo and the cathedral, the Santo Domingo de Guzman temple, the markets, the Oaxaca textile museum, the philatelic museum, and the Oaxaca painters museum.
Join a Free Walking Tour: with Estación México or Destino México (but remember to tip!)
Get an Early Start: Begin your days at dawn, particularly when heading to well-known spots like Monte Alban or Mitla. An early start helps you dodge the crowds and the intense heat around noon . Plus, it frees up your afternoons for more exploration or some well-deserved relaxation.
Learn Basic Spanish Phrases: While many people in tourist areas speak English, knowing basic Spanish phrases can enhance your experience . Simple words like “Hola” (hello), “Gracias” (thank you), and “¿Cuánto cuesta?” (how much does it cost?) can go a long way in interacting with locals.
Opt for Organized Tours if Car-Less: In case you decide against renting a car, a practical way to discover Oaxaca’s surrounding areas is through organized tours. Oaxaca boasts an array of superb tours encompassing major sites, from archaeological wonders to artisan communities. These tours are not only convenient for transportation but also enrich your visit with expert knowledge and insights.
Be Respectful: Show respect for local customs and practices. This includes being mindful when taking photos, especially of people or religious sites, and asking for permission when appropriate.
Try Local Street Food: Beyond restaurants, Oaxaca’s street food is a culinary adventure. From tamales to tacos, these foods offer authentic tastes of the region. Just be sure to choose stalls that are busy with locals – a sign of good quality and freshness.
Bring Cash for Small Buys: In Oaxaca, many small vendors, markets, and local food places don’t accept credit cards. It’s a good idea to have some Mexican pesos with you for these purchases, so you can buy local items and street food easily.
Stay Hydrated and Prepared for the Weather : Oaxaca can be warm, especially around midday. Always carry water with you to stay hydrated and wear sun protection like hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly – layers are often a good idea as temperatures can vary.
Keep an Open Itinerary for Unexpected Discoveries: While it’s great to have a plan, sometimes the best experiences come from spontaneous decisions. Leave some open slots in your itinerary for unplanned explorations or recommendations you might receive from locals or fellow travelers.

How long does it take to visit Oaxaca?

In my opinion, one day in Oaxaca is not enough . Ideally, you should spend at least two or three days in Oaxaca , as there is so much to see in and around the city.

Here are my suggested itineraries to see as much as possible in 1, 2 or 3 days in Oaxaca :

If you only have one day in Oaxaca:

Spend the morning at the Ex-Temple of Santo Domingo complex: Santo Domingo Temple, Ethnobotanical Garden.
Stroll through the Mercado 20 de Noviembre, Mercado Benito Juárez and the Mercado de Artesanías.
For lunch, go to the Pasillo de Humo of the 20 de noviembre Market.
Head to the Zócalo where the cathedral is located. You can have a hot chocolate for dessert at El Mayordomo.
Stroll through the Jalatlaco neighborhood to see its colorful streets.
At night you can have a drink in one of the many bars, such as Mezcalogia, Sabina Sabe or La Selva.

If you have two days in Oaxaca , the first day, follow the itinerary above. Then, the second day:

Start with a visit to Monte Alban (it is best to arrive at the opening).
Then visit the artisan villages : San Antonio Arrazola, San Bartolo Coyotepec, San Martin Tilcajete, Santo Tomas Jalieza.
If you still have time , you can continue along the same road and you will arrive at Mezcal Lalocura.
If you wish , you can also take a day tour from Oaxaca to visit the archaeological site of Monte Alban, San Antonio Arrazola, the monastery of Cuilapam de Guerrero and San Bartolo Coyotepec.

If you have three days in Oaxaca , day 1 and 2 follow the same program, and then day 3:

In the morning, start with the archaeological site of Mitla
Continue with Hierve el Agua
On your way back to Oaxaca, make a stop in Teotitlán del Valle
If you prefer not to worry about the organization of the day, you can also book this tour which includes hotel pick-up, Mitla, Hierve el Agua and Teotitlán del Valle.

Oaxaca is a safe city to visit.

Of course, you should always be careful:

Always keep an eye on your belongings (don’t leave them unattended).
Don’t accept drinks from strangers.
Use bank ATMs for withdrawals.
Avoid carrying valuables.
Never go to a remote area without checking the situation of the place.

All the places mentioned in this article are tourist destinations in Oaxaca and are not very dangerous .

How to get to Oaxaca de Juarez?

It takes about 6 hours to drive from Mexico City to the city of Oaxaca de Juarez, and about 4 hours from Puebla .

Renting a car is for sure the best way to explore Oaxaca and make the most of your stay!

To rent a car, personally, I always use Rentalcars.com, for a few reasons:

You can easily compare the rental cars prices between all the agencies: for sure the easiest way to find the best rate!
Cancellation is often offered free of charge: no need to worry if you change your mind
Rentalcars offers full insurance coverage at a lower price than the rental companies , so it’s an instant saving with no effort

Simply click on the green button to find your rental car at the best price:

My tips for driving from Mexico City to Oaxaca:

Important: leave early to avoid as much traffic as possible!
The toll from Mexico City to Oaxaca costs 511 pesos. For details of the tolls, it is best to check Traza tu Ruta
Do not drive at night.
To make it easier to go through the tolls (without stopping and without bringing change), it is best to get the TAG (electronic toll). You can recharge it easily through the app (Android – Iphone ) or at one of these locations .
Enjoy the view ! I have traveled by road between Mexico City and Oaxaca , and I can confirm that some of the scenery is beautiful , especially near the Tehuacan Reserve with areas full of cactus.
If you want to take a break on your way, you could stop in the charming city of Puebla (2h15 drive from Mexico City). You can read this article: The 25 Best Things To Do In Puebla !

Xoxocotlán International Airport receives flights from Mexico City , Cancun , Guadalajara , Tijuana and other national and international destinations, mainly with Aeromexico and Volaris.

To find your cheap flight to Oaxaca or your international flight to Mexico , use our flight comparator in collaboration with Skyscanner. It will help you find the best price!

How to get from Oaxaca airport to downtown :

Rent a car at the airport through Rentalcars (click on the link to compare cars)
Take a cab from the airport (about 400 pesos each way) or walk here for a cheaper cab (about 150 pesos). As far as I know, there is no Uber type app at the moment.
By public transport : taking the bus to downtown Oaxaca from the airport is the cheapest option (10 pesos each way). You have to walk 1km to the center and then wait for a bus from the “Halcón company” that will drop you off at the corner of Francisco Javier Mina and Bustamante . But ask before boarding to make sure it is going in the right direction.
Shared transportation : another very good and affordable option. This is a van that can take up to 8 people and will drop you off at your hotel.

Book the round trip service from the airport to your hotel in Oaxaca here:

From Mexico City, it is 7h.

Buses to Oaxaca leave from TAPO (Terminal de Autobuses de Pasajeros de Oriente) in Mexico City.

There are day and night departures with several companies, but I recommend ADO (or AU, which is the same company) – See prices and schedules on ADO’s website

Discover all my articles about Mexico : All my articles to help you plan your trip to Mexico are listed there.

TOP 35 Things to Do and Must See Attractions in Mexico – All the best places to discover
Oaxaca : Top 31 Things To Do and Must-See Attractions !
1 Day in Oaxaca – A Quick-Start Itinerary
2 Days in Oaxaca – Exploring the Essential Highlights
3 Days in Oaxaca – The Complete Itinerary to See Everything!
Monte Alban : what you should know before you go
Oaxaca : the 7 Best Coffee Shops You Have to Visit

The 5 Best Bars in Oaxaca to Experience the Local Culture and Mezcal

Day of the Dead (Mexico) : How to Celebrate Día de Muertos Like a Local
Itinerary : 10 days in Mexico – Mexico City, Chiapas and Yucatan
Itinerary : 2 weeks in Mexico – Best itinerary to discover the Yucatan Peninsula and Chiapas!
Itinerary : 3 weeks in Mexico – Mexico City, Puebla, Oaxaca, Chiapas, Campeche , Yucatán and Riviera Maya
Itinerary : 1 month in Mexico – My Epic 30-31 Days Itinerary from Mexico City to Cancun
Road trip in Mexico : The best itineraries for 10, 15, 21 days and a month
Itinerary : 1 week in Yucatan – The Ultimate 6, 7 or 8 days Itinerary
Itinerary : 10 days in Yucatan – Best Itinerary for 9, 10 or 11 Days in Yucatan
Itinerary : 2 weeks in Yucatan – Epic Itinerary + All my Best Tips!
Itinerary : 3 weeks in Yucatan – Best things to do in 20-21 days
Itinerary : 1 month in Yucatan – Yucatan Peninsula in 29, 30 or 31 days from Cancun
Road trip in Yucatan : The best itineraries for 7, 10, 15, 21 days and 1 month

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I have created this blog to give you all my best tips to plan your next trip to Mexico, regardless of your budget. I share detailed itineraries, advice about places to visit as well as recommendations for transportation, hotels and restaurants. I hope I will also help you to discover amazing off the beaten path destinations in Mexico!

3 Days in Oaxaca: The Perfect Itinerary (First Time Visit)

2 Days in Oaxaca: The Perfect Itinerary (First Time Visit)

Oaxaca Travel Guide

Last Updated: November 2, 2023

The colorful historic downtown of Oaxaca, Mexico

From the moment I arrived, I knew Oaxaca was a special place. The city’s energy and mine just synched. We were a pair. My eyes constantly shifted to every shade of color, every movement, as if I had an insatiable hunger to take in everything.

That love has only grown deeper with each subsequent visit (and there have been many).

Oaxaca is a city of colorful buildings, scenic rooftop restaurants and bars, street art, historic Spanish colonial churches, cobblestone streets, and picturesque parks. It’s also one of the gastronomic centers of Mexico and a hub for making mezcal in the country.

Located in a valley surrounded by craggy mountains in southwestern Mexico , Oaxaca and its surrounds have been inhabited for thousands of years by indigenous Zapotec and Mixtec peoples. Today, Oaxaca is a center for heritage tourism, owing to the many historical attractions (including Monte Albán, a UNESCO Heritage Site; and Mitla, a Zapotec archeological site) in the city and surrounding area.

With mouth-watering food, the best mezcal in the world, and tons of history, it’s no surprise I fell in love with Oaxaca. I’ve never met anyone who didn’t love it. All the hype you hear about it is true.

This travel guide to Oaxaca will help you see all the sites, save money, and fall in love with it too.

Things to See and Do
Typical Costs
Suggested Budget
Money-Saving Tips
Where to Stay
How to Get Around
How to Stay Safe
Best Places to Book Your Trip
Related Blogs on Oaxaca

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Oaxaca

The ancient site of Monte Alban and its historic ruins near Oaxaca, Mexico

1. Wander the historic downtown

The entire downtown of Oaxaca was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987. There are over 1,200 historic buildings here, most of which are hundreds of years old. Historical downtown Oaxaca is the perfect place to explore iconic landmarks like the Zocalo courtyard (the courtyard in front of the National Palace), the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption, and the Santa Domingo Cultural Center. Spend some time wandering to take in their vibrant colors and historic architecture, and stop in for a Mezcal cocktail at any of the lively downtown bars.

2. Explore Mercado 20 de Noviembre

This covered market is home to all kinds of delicious street food as well as fresh, local produce. Construction on the market began in 1862 but wasn’t finalized until 1882, and was later named after the start date of the Mexican Revolution in 1910. It has remained one of Oaxaca’s culinary and cultural hubs for over a hundred years. Be sure to try some of the amazing grilled meats as they are a local favorite! Definitely eat here at least once. It’s open daily from 7am-9pm.

3. See Monte Albán

This pre-Columbian archeological site is located just 15 minutes outside the city. Founded in the 6th century BCE, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site full of ancient Zapotec pyramids, terraces, and canals that span several miles. Admission is 70 MXN while full-day tours (that include other stops) are 724 MXN.

4. Explore Mitla

This pre-Columbian UNESCO site was built in 850 CE and was mostly destroyed by the Spanish when they arrived in the mid-16th century. However, some buildings were left intact, which you can get up close and explore (some of which date as far back as 400 CE). Mitla was one of the main religious and spiritual hubs for the indigenous Zapotec and Mixtec people, and was used as a sacred burial site. Admission is 75 MXN while skip-the-line tickets are 160 MXN.

5. Try a street-stall hamberguesa

Other things to see and do in oaxaca, 1. learn about mezcal.

I love mezcal (which is one of the reasons why I love Oaxaca). This is the birthplace of mezcal, a spirit distilled from agave. Unlike tequila, which is also made from agave, when making mezcal, the heart of the plant is cooked in a pit in the ground before it is crushed. Then water is added, and it’s allowed to ferment. Since the plant is cooked, mezcal has a much smokier flavor than tequila.

If you want to learn more about this popular (and delicious) spirit, Rambling Spirits runs the best mezcal tours in Oaxaca. Go with them if you want to learn more. Their guides have incredible knowledge and can take you to places the bigger tours can’t. I learned a ton on this tour and highly recommend it! Most tours leave after lunch so it’s a perfect way to spend the remainder of your day.

2. Take a free walking tour

One of the first things I do when I visit a new city is take a free walking tour. They’re the best way to see the main sights, get introduced to the city and culture, and connect with a local guide who can answer all your questions. Oaxaca Free Walking Tour offers free daily tours that show you the hidden gems of the city and what life is like for the locals who live here. Just make sure to tip your guide at the end!

3. See the Templo de Santo Domingo

This Baroque Roman Catholic church was started in 1572, though it wasn’t completed until 1731. It was originally used as a Dominican church and monastery. During Mexico’s revolutionary war (1910-1920), the church was annexed and used as a barracks and military building. It was transformed into a museum in the 1970s and is now home to all kinds of religious and pre-Columbian artifacts. The interior is incredibly ornate, with intricate carvings on the walls. Admission is free. Be sure to dress respectfully.

4. Wander the Botanical Garden

These gardens span over two acres and are located near the Church of Santo Domingo. The gardens feature different plants from across the state (Oaxaca is one of the most biologically diverse regions in the country). In addition to the flowers, trees, and cacti that dot the garden, there are also sculptures and works of art too. Self-guided tours are not allowed so you’ll need to go with a guide. One-hour tours are offered Monday through Saturday. There is only one English tour available per day, however. Admission (including the tour) is 50 MXN for Spanish tours and 100 MXN for tours in English.

5. Visit Puerto Escondido

Located on the Pacific Coast 6 hours away by car, Puerto Escondido is famous for its stunning beaches and rambunctious nightlife. If you’re looking for a quick weekend getaway from Oaxaca, head here to lounge away the days and party all night. Playa Manzanillo and Puerto Angelito are the best beaches for swimming and lounging while Playa Zicatela is great for surfing. Avoid staying in the middle of Zicatela as it’s boring. If you’re backpacking, stay at the very south where all the hostels are. It’s a lively area.

6. Take a food tour

If you’re a foodie like me, one of the best ways to get a sense of the local food scene is to take a guided food tour. I highly recommend doing one here since Oaxaca is such a center for gastronomy. Oaxaca has some of the most diverse selections of dishes in Mexico. Oaxaca Eats runs several tours, most of which last around 4 hours. You’ll get to sample 20+ dishes. Tour prices vary but expect to spend 2,000 MXN.

7. Wander the Sunday market

Mercado Tlacolula is one of the most popular markets in the region. It’s essentially been in operation for centuries and is a good place to buy local crafts, produce, food, and everything in between. It’s located 45-minutes outside the city so you’ll need to drive there or take the bus, but it’s absolutely worth the journey. There are thousands of people here and tons of amazing food to try. Don’t miss barbacoa (stewed meat) and chicharrón (fried pork rinds).

8. Try a cooking class

If you want to learn how to make some of the amazing dishes you’ve eaten here, take a cooking class . Most classes take you to the market so you can buy fresh ingredients before you start cooking. Classes last around 5 hours and are hands-on and fully immersive. Usually, you’ll make one appetizer, some salsa, a main mole dish (mole is a specific sauce and one of the region’s specialties), and a dessert. Expect to spend around 1,900 MXN for a class.

9. Go hiking in Sierra Norte

Sierra Norte offers visitors over 100 kilometers (62 miles) of hiking trails spanning over 40 different trails. Located just two hours by car from Oaxaca, you’ll also see a handful of Zapotec villages (Pueblos Mancomunados) along the way that offer village-to-village treks and homestays. At Sierra Nore, keep in mind that trails are not well-marked so you’ll need to hire a guide (going solo is possible but not recommended). Guides are incredibly knowledgeable and can point out wildlife (there are pumas, bobcats, armadillos, and more here), identify plants, and ensure you don’t get lost (plus, hiring a guide helps support the local economy). Multi-day tours (which trek from village to village) cost around 3,600 MXN per person for a 3-day tour.

10. Experience a Temazcal

Temazcal (meaning “house of heat”) is a traditional Zapotec sweat lodge. You’ll sit in a small domed hut that becomes increasingly warmer. You’ll rub everything from clay to fresh fruit juices and peels on your skin as you heat up, cooling down by dunking yourself in cold water. It’s a very meditative, spiritual experience with numerous health benefits. Visits usually last an hour and cost around 600 MXN.

11. Celebrate Day of the Dead

The Day of the Dead (Día de Los Muertos) is one of the biggest celebrations/festivals in all of Mexico. It occurs between October 31st and November 2nd and is a time meant for remembering loved ones who have passed. Locals paint their faces, visit cemeteries, and give offerings. There are all kinds of celebrations and parades too. Oaxaca hosts one of the biggest festivals in all of Mexico. It’s one of the best (and busiest) times to visit Oaxaca. Be sure to book your accommodation early as hotels and hostels sell out months in advance. If you want a local guide during the Day of the Dead , expect to pay around 1,250 MXN.

If you’re visiting other cities in Mexico, check out these guides:

Cancun Travel Guide
Mexico City Travel Guide

Oaxaca Travel Costs

The famous ancient church standing tall in Oaxaca, Mexico

Hostel prices – A bed in dorm costs between 250-450 MXN per night regardless of how big the dorm is. Free Wi-Fi is standard and many hostels also include free breakfast. Most have self-catering facilities too. Private rooms cost 600-1,500 MXN per night.

For those traveling with a tent, a basic plot for two people without electricity can be found outside the city for around 200 MXN per night. The campgrounds are 20 minutes outside the city by car.

Budget hotels – Budget two-star hotels with ensuite bathrooms start at 700 MXN per night. These include basic amenities like TV, AC, and free Wi-Fi.

Airbnb is also available here, with private rooms starting at 200 MXN per night (though they average closer to 950 MXN). Entire homes/apartments cost at least 400 MXN (but average double or even triple that price). Be sure to book early for the best deals.

Food – Oaxaca is a gastronomical hub in Mexico and is known for unique dishes such as tlayudas (a tortilla filled with beans, lettuce, cheese, and your protein of choice, grilled to be crispy on the outside), memelas, and mole (a sauce with lots of ingredients, sometimes including chocolate, and served with rice and tortillas).

Street stalls and markets are your best choice for authentic and inexpensive food. Tacos, quesadillas, sopas, tortas, and other street foods are generally 15-45 MXN. Sometimes, you’ll find tacos for as cheap as 10 MXN. In Oaxaca, street food is the best — and most affordable — option.

Be sure to hit the markets here too. At the Mercado Sanchez Pascua, there is a tamale lady in the back who has some of the most delicious tamales in Oaxaca (try the salsa verde!). She is so popular that she’s often sold out by 10am. In the most famous market, Mercado 20 de Noviembre, there is a section full of BBQ stalls where you can order a plate full of meat and some veggies on the side, cooked right in front of you. Don’t miss out.

Surprisingly, there are not as many taco stands around the city center but if you make your way up to the ADO bus station and look across the street, there is a long line of taco stalls set up. Most of them have the exact same fare — tacos al pastor, for 10 MXN each. At the far end, you will see one with pots full of bubbling stews of meat — tacos casuales — and they go for 15 MXN each.

A meal at a local Mexican restaurant serving traditional cuisine costs around 80-200 MXN. Look for the ones filled with locals as that is generally a sign that the food is really good. For comparison, a combo meal at McDonald’s costs around 110 MXN.

A national beer is around 30 MXN while a latte/cappuccino is 45 MXN. Bottled water is 10 MXN. A glass of mezcal will cost between 80-240 MXN depending on what kind you get.

Tap water is not safe to drink in Mexico. Bring a portable water purifier ( LifeStraw makes a good one) to save money and reduce your reliance on single-use plastic bottles.

If you plan to cook your meals, expect to pay between 500-575 MXN per week for basic staples like rice, beans, veggies, and some meat.

Some of my favorite restaurants are Boulenc, Los Danzantes, La Mezcaloteca, Tlayudas El Negro, Cactus Loncheria, Lechoncito de Oro, Santo Sabor Restaurante, Tastavins, Casa Taviche, Casa Oaxaca el Restaurante, and Praga Coffee Bar.

Backpacking Oaxaca Suggested Budgets

If you’re backpacking Oaxaca, expect to spend 800 MXN per day. This budget gets you a hostel dorm, street food and self-cooked meals, public transportation, and a few cheap attractions, such as a visit to Monte Albán and a free walking tour. If you plan on eating out more or drinking lots of mezcal, add another 60-150 MXN per day.

On a mid-range budget of 1,750 MXN per day, you can stay in a private Airbnb, eat at restaurants serving cheap traditional cuisine for every meal, enjoy a few drinks, take the occasional taxi to get around, and do more paid activities like cooking classes or museum visits.

On a “luxury” budget of 3,400 MXN or more per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat out for all your meals anywhere you want, have plenty of drinks, take taxis everywhere or rent a car, and do some guided food or mezcal tours. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in MXN.

Oaxaca Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Like the rest of Mexico, Oaxaca is super affordable. However, with so many tempting eateries and mezcalerias, it’s easy to go overboard and spend too much (that’s what happened to me and my entire group of friends). Lucky, there’s plenty of ways to cut your costs. Here are some tips to help you save money in Oaxaca:

Shop at the markets for food – Oaxaca’s markets are a great place to eat inexpensively and stock up on food for day trips. Binge on fresh fruit, tacos, and grilled meat — it’s all super cheap!
Eat street food – Street food is the best food in the city — and the cheapest. Stick to street stalls to save money and enjoy the country’s best eats. Most meals won’t be more than 30 MXN.
Take a free walking tour – A free walking tour is the best way to see the main sights and connect with a local guide. Oaxaca Free Walking Tour offers daily tours that give you a solid intro to the city. Just be sure to tip your guide at the end!
Stay with a local – Use Couchsurfing to connect with locals and find free accommodation. If you send your request in advance, you can likely find a host who can share their insider tips and knowledge with you.
Drink less – Alcohol is cheap in Mexico, but it’s definitely more expensive at bars and clubs. Try to buy your alcohol from a local store instead of drinking at the bar if you’re on a budget.
Skip the taxis – Oaxaca is easy to explore on foot and the bus goes pretty much everywhere you need it. Skip the taxis!
Being a water filter – Since the tap water here isn’t safe to drink and single-use plastic is bad for the environment, bring a water filter. LifeStraw makes reusable bottles with a built-in filter so you can ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Oaxaca

Oaxaca has plenty of affordable hostels. Here are some suggested places to stay if you’re on a budget:

Hostel Central
El Cielo Oaxaca
Iguana Hostel Oaxaca
Azul Cielo Oaxaca

How to Get Around Oaxaca

A sprawling field of agave planted to make mezcal near Oaxaca, Mexico

On foot – Oaxaca is super pedestrian-friendly. Unless you’re heading out to the nearby ruins, you can just walk everywhere in the downtown area.

Bus – Collectivos (shared taxis that drive set routes) are available around the city and usually cost around 15 MXN.

Taxi – Taxis start at 55 MXN and go up by region traveled. For example, anywhere in the historic center costs 55 MXN, even if you only travel 1 block or 10. If you want to go to the neighboring region of La Reforma from the historic center, it costs 70 MXN, and so on. A taxi to the airport should be about 150-200 MXN, depending on which region you’re staying in (and what time of day/night it is, with nighttime being a bit higher). While affordable, they add up quickly so skip the taxis if you can.

Though Uber is not in Oaxaca, you can use a similar app called Didi. International credit cards don’t seem to work with the app, so make sure you have close to the right amount of change as the suggested fare cost (taxi drivers don’t usually have a lot of change). Rides with this app exclusively use taxis.

Bicycle – Bike rentals can be found for around 100 MXN for a half-day rental. For a guided mountain bike trip, expect to spend around 1,300 MXN for a half-day excursion.

Car rental – Car rentals cost around 650 MXN per day. Unless you’re going to do some day trips (or multi-day trips) outside the city (such as a trip to Puerto Escondido) then you likely don’t need a car. Renters must be 21 years of age and have had their license for at least two years.

Some companies require renters to be over 25. Deposits on car rentals can also be quite steep, with some companies asking for $1,000 USD as a deposit

When to Go to Oaxaca

Oaxaca’s elevation offers a relatively pleasant climate year-round. The most popular time to visit is December-January when many Canadian and American tourists flock south to avoid the winter. This is when the city is busiest and prices are highest. Daily highs are comfortable and not too hot, hovering around 25°C (77°F).

Expect crowds around the Day of the Dead (late October/early November). If you’re visiting then, be sure to book your accommodation well in advance.

The summer sees more rain, though the weather is still warm and sunny. Expect daily averages around 26°C (79°F).

How to Stay Safe in Oaxaca

Oaxaca is generally one of the safest cities in Mexico. You don’t find the kind of drug or tourist-related violence and thefts you find elsewhere. That being said, it is still always best to practice personal safety and never stop being aware of your surroundings.

Be sure to take a taxi home after a night out just to be safe. Also, don’t carry all your valuables with you everywhere you go (unless it’s to or from the airport). Leave your passport at your accommodation and only take enough money with you for what you feel you need to do.

When possible, it’s always best to walk with a friend or a small group. Avoid wearing flashy jewelry and waving around lots of money or high-end electronics (both during the day and at night). There’s been a rise in late-night petty theft since COVID so it’s better to be safe than sorry, especially if you are coming around major festivals.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here, even walking alone. However, the standard precautions always apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.). For specific tips, check out one of the many solo female travel blogs about the city.

If you rent a vehicle, never leave any valuables in it overnight.

If an emergency occurs, dial 911. If that doesn’t work (since 911 isn’t available everywhere), dial 066. Overall, dangerous crimes against tourists are very uncommon here. The people who do tend to be involved in incidents are usually doing drugs or taking part in sex tourism. Avoid all of that and you’ll greatly reduce your risks here. I never feel unsafe here and neither do my friends that live here, even the women.

Always trust your gut instinct. Avoid isolated areas at night, and be aware of your surroundings at all times. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past.

Oaxaca Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Oaxaca Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Mexico and continue planning your trip:

The 20 Best Things to Do in Mexico City

The 5 Best Hotels in Oaxaca

Where to Stay in Oaxaca: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

How to Spend 5 Days in Oaxaca

The 15 Best Things to Do in Oaxaca

Is Tulum Safe?

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Overview of Monte Alban archaeological site on mountain-top above Oaxaca City.

The state of Oaxaca (wah-hah-kah) has a special magic felt by Mexicans and foreigners alike. A bastion of indigenous culture, it’s home to the country’s most vibrant crafts and art scene, some outstandingly colorful and extroverted festivities, a uniquely savory cuisine and diverse natural riches. At the center of the state in every way stands beautiful, colonial Oaxaca city, an elegant and fascinating cultural hub. Nearby, the forested Sierra Norte is home to successful community-tourism ventures enabling visitors to hike, bike and ride horses amid delicious green mountainscapes. To the south, across rugged, remote ranges, is Oaxaca’s fabulous tropical coast, with its wide sandy beaches, pumping Pacific surf, seas full of dolphins and turtles, and a string of beach towns and villages that will placate even the most anxious of travelers: surfer-heaven Puerto Escondido; planned but relaxed Bahías de Huatulco; and the mellow delights of Mazunte, Zipolite and San Agustinillo.

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10 Best Places to Visit in Oaxaca, Mexico

Renowned for its intoxicating mix of different peoples, cultures and languages, Oaxaca in the southwest of Mexico still retains much of its indigenous identity and as such it is well worth exploring as it has a very different feel to it from the rest of the country.

While its rugged mountainous terrain helped protect and preserve the homelands of people such as the Zapotecs and Mixtecs from the Spanish Conquistadores, the diverse landscapes also allowed different fauna and flora to flourish around the state. Consequently Oaxaca is one of the most biodiverse regions in Mexico and its incredible scenery includes everything from towering mountains and sweeping valleys to a beautiful beach-filled Pacific coastline.

With lots of impressive archaeological sites alongside charming towns replete with native cultures, crafts and cuisine, the best places in Oaxaca really are unlike anywhere else in Mexico.

Map of the best places in Oaxaca, Mexico

10. Yagul [SEE MAP]

Although Yagul was first settled around 500 – 100 BC, most of the stunning ruins that we see today date to the 1200 – 1500s, which was when the city-state was at the height of its power. Known to locals as ‘Pueblo Viejo’ – the old village – Yagul was still inhabited when the Spanish arrived, although the city was soon abandoned.

Despite being one of only four natural monuments in Mexico, the impressive and well-preserved archaeological site sees relatively few visitors. Wandering around with barely another soul in sight is a fantastic feeling.

With a beautiful fort for you to explore alongside breathtaking ballcourts and the remains of a palace, the amazing ruins are well worth checking out. The majestic ceremonial structures and architecture only hint at the power and prestige of the mighty Zapotec civilization that once ruled the area.

9. Bahias de Huatulco [SEE MAP]

Consisting of nine beach-lined bays, each more dazzling than the last, Bahias de Huatulco is a brilliant place to head to if you want to kick back, relax, and take in some rays. While at one time only laidback sleepy fishing villages lined its shores, in the 1980s, the government saw its tourism potential and developed a series of hotels and resorts along the bays.

Fortunately, everything was done very tastefully. The unspoiled feel to the place remains, with all the hotels, restaurants, and bars tucked away among the glorious forests that hug the shore.

Bahias de Huatulco is breathtakingly beautiful. The bays with their pearly white beaches are all backed by vast swathes of forest that are protected by Huatulco National Park. While lounging on the beach amidst the stunning scenery is a great way to spend the holiday, there is also a myriad of different watersports for you to try out, while taking a boat trip offers you the chance to see the glorious coastline from afar.

8. Mitla [SEE MAP]

Named after Mictlan, the Aztec underworld, Mitla is believed by archaeologists to have been the most important Zapotec religious site. The impressive mosaics and geometric designs that cover its tombs and temples are the best in the whole of Mexico.

Exploring the archaeological site is a delight, and seeing the intricate designs that coat the ancient buildings up close is an awe-inspiring experience.

Although the site dates back even earlier, it was between 750 and 1521 that Mitla flourished. Its expansion was still ongoing when the Spanish arrived and destroyed much of it. Despite this, the ruins at Mitla are remarkably well-preserved, and the mix of Zapotec and Mixtec architectural influences is fascinating to behold, with lots of people visiting the site every week.

7. Zipolite [SEE MAP]

Lying along Mexico’s beautiful Pacific Ocean coastline, Zipolite has long attracted backpackers and hippies to its shores, and there is definitely a very laidback and relaxed feel about the place.

Indeed, anything goes in Zipolite, and it is not without reason that the small town is home to the county’s only nude beach. While chilling out on the pristine beach is many people’s favorite pastime, others prefer to go surfing in the waves or take a dolphin or whale watching boat trip along the coast.

At the end of every day, a glorious sunset bathes the beach in a stunning array of colors. Listening to local musicians or watching fire dancers perform is a magical experience as the night draws in.

6. Hierve el Agua [SEE MAP]

Located in a rugged and remote setting just 70 kilometers from Oaxaca, the natural rock formations of Hierve el Agua are sure to be unlike anything you’ve ever seen before. Cascading down the cliff face to the valley below, the rock formations look like flowing water; from afar, one would stake money on them being waterfalls. In reality the rocks were formed by the accumulation of minerals deposited by spring water that has flowed down the rocks over thousands of years.

While the rock structures are undoubtedly the main attraction, the view from the top of them out over the valley is marvelous, and there are several natural pools and hot springs which visitors can bathe in.

5. Tehuacan-Cuicatlan Biosphere Reserve [SEE MAP]

Encompassing rugged mountain ranges, sweeping valleys, and the upper basin of the Papaloapan River, the Tehuacán-Cuicatlán Biosphere Reserve is home to a wide array of landscapes which are lovely to hike through.

Due to the different habitats on show, you can be exploring a cacti-filled desert one moment, wandering through forest-coated valleys the next, and taking in sweeping views from one of the many mountaintops later in the day.

The fauna and flora are just as diverse as the landscapes themselves, with lots of species of bird, fish, and reptiles also residing within the reserve. A delight for nature lovers and outdoor aficionados alike, the Tehuacán-Cuicatlán Biosphere Reserve is well worth stopping by if you want to escape from the city for the day and immerse yourself in nature.

4. Puerto Escondido [SEE MAP]

Renowned for its great surfing, Puerto Escondido is the place to head to if you want big waves and near-perfect surf conditions. The gorgeous Playa Zicatela is widely considered amongst the best places to surf in the world; on any given day, a whole host of surfers can be found riding waves or chilling out on its golden sands.

A top-rated tourist destination, Puerto Escondido has a laidback vibe to it, with a number of great beaches for you to choose from if you’re not into surfing. The best of them is undoubtedly Playa Carrizalillo, although Playa Principal and Playa Bacocho also have their charms.

While in town, it is well worth going on a scenic boat trip along the coast to spot turtles, dolphins, and other marine species.

3. Monte Alban [SEE MAP]

Perched atop a low-lying mountain range near Oaxaca City and surrounded by sweeping valleys, the archaeological ruins of Monte Alban are certainly very impressive, with the well-preserved remains of temples, palaces, and ballcourts all on display.

One of the earliest cities founded in Mesoamerica, for centuries, Monte Alban was the center of socio-political and economic life in Oaxaca, with its zenith coming between 300 and 700 AD.

Despite having long been abandoned by the time the Spanish arrived, the site still conveys the majesty and importance of the Zapotecs who ruled from the city; many ornate and impressive stone-carved monuments can still be found scattered here and there. A must-see when visiting Oaxaca, Monte Alban certainly won’t disappoint with its fascinating ruins and sweeping views of the surrounding mountains and countryside.

2. Mazunte [SEE MAP]

Nestled alongside two beautiful beaches, the small village of Mazunte is ideal for people looking for a quiet getaway; there is barely anything to do other than lounge on one of the beaches and take in the stunning scenery. As it is very undeveloped and quite rural, most of the accommodation is basic, with ramshackle thatched-roof beach huts and restaurants clustered under the trees lining the beach.

Very popular with both independent travelers and backpackers, Mazunte has an alternative vibe to it, with lots of yoga studios and Spanish schools found around town. Besides the beautiful beaches, the main attraction is the fantastic turtle center. Many people visit Mazunte in May and June to watch the cute creatures lay their eggs on the beach before returning to the sea.

1. Oaxaca [SEE MAP]

Whether it’s history and culture that you are interested in or gastronomy and nightlife, Oaxaca is the place to go, and no visit to the state of the same name can ever be complete without at least passing by. Home to elegant colonial buildings and leafy plazas, with Zapotec and Mixtec archaeological sites found nearby, the city boasts an intoxicating array of different cultures. Indigenous arts, crafts, and cuisine are also on display at its many merry markets.

Oaxaca has a lot for you to see and do , and simply wandering around town and taking in the ambiance is a great way to explore the city, with beautiful churches and museums lying next to trendy bars, restaurants, and boutiques.

While Oaxaca is excellent to visit at any time of year, it is especially lively and special to check out during Guelaguetza – a month-long festival that showcases traditional Oaxacan dances and music.

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27 Unmissable Things to Do in Oaxaca City Mexico – A Travel Guide

oaxaca Santo Domingo Convent with agave plants in the front

Disclaimer: This page may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase using one of those links, I may earn a commission at zero cost for you. Please see my disclaimer policy here, and my privacy policy here.

There are so many amazing things to do in Oaxaca City and incredible places to visit, from museums to historical buildings, archeological sites, art galleries, clothing shops, and some of the best Mexican natural wonders.

Oh! And the food! In this post, I will tell you all about it, including all the best restaurants, where to stay, and other useful, practical tips.

DOWNLOAD THE PDF OF THIS ARTICLE – THINGS TO DO IN OAXACA CITY

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Of all the places in Mexico, Oaxaca City is my favorite; after your visit, you will understand why.

I have visited Oaxaca several times, and every time, I enjoyed exploring all the beautiful places the city has to offer, including the incredibly delicious cuisine. So unique.

Oaxaca is one of the most popular destinations to attend the Day of the Dead , one of the most important Mexican celebrations . However, Oaxaca is much more than that.

In this post, I will tell you all about it.

Are you planning a trip soon? I’ve got you covered

Top tours and activities in Oaxaca

Hierve el Agua, Tenotitlan del Valle, Mezcal and Tule tour

Flavors of Oaxaca: Cooking Class with No Set Menu and Local Market Tour

Monte Alban Guided Half Day Tour
Only Hierve el Agua and Mezcal Distillery Tour
Street Art Bike Ride

Best Hotels in Oaxaca

Los Amantes
Casa Carmen
Casa Antonieta

▼ BOOK THE TWO TOP-RATED TOURS IN OAXACA MEXICO▼

Hierve el Agua, Teotitlán del Valle, Mezcal, El tule, desde Oaxaca

Discover one of Oaxaca’s natural minerals, the gigantic tree of el Tule which is over 2000 years old, Teotitlan del Valle to see how they saw the wool carpets, the ceremonial center of Mitla, outstandingly beautiful for its magnificent fretwork made of countless polish stones, and finally the magnificent Hierve el agua, the beautiful petrified waterfalls

Discover Oaxaca culinary secrets during a cooking workshop right in the heart of the city. You will visit a local market to gather ingredients for your class. There’s no set menu, so the group can select which traditional dishes to make. Learn about the origins of each dish and several techniques during your hands-on class. Your tour end with the delicious meal that you’ve created.

Every time I visit Oaxaca City, I can spend a quiet day reading or working at a coffee shop with a pretty garden.

Work out by taking a long walk and admiring the architecture, spoil the workout by indulging in delicious food and desserts, partying the night away, drinking some mezcal, and dancing to salsa music.

As a repeat visitor, I would like to share my top recommendations for what to see and do in this enchanting place.

So, let’s wear comfortable walking shoes, and let me take you on this journey.

What to do in Oaxaca City Mexico, at a Glance

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Oaxaca City is the homonymous state’s capital located in the southwest of Mexico.

This city has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987. It used to be called “ Verde Antequera ” (green Antequera, for a city in Spain).

Verde means green, and it is the color of the quarry used to build the impressive colonial architecture of the time.

The given name today is Oaxaca de Juárez, in honor of the former Zapotecan president of Mexico (1858 – 1872), Don Benito Juarez.

Oaxaca City was founded in 1529 by the indigenous Zapotec culture. Since then, the city center has been the center of economic, political, social, religious, and cultural activities that give the city its dynamism.

Oaxaca street - among the things to do in Oaxaca, walk around the colorful streets

It preserves many icons that represent a cultural tradition of more than four centuries of art and the rich history of indigenous cultures.

Oaxaca is home to friendly people with many talents and a wealth of cultural events that attract travelers worldwide.

The city’s grandeur is best experienced at the many festivals that occur throughout the year. These festivals showcase the essence and heart of this destination and its people.

Carnival time is a time of joy and fills the city with sound and color. Holy Week is a time of reflection and respect for the city’s religiosity.

In summer, residents are busy with sports and dancing. The festivals of Mole, Tejate (local drink), Tamal , and Mezcal proudly display the diversity of gastronomy and flavors.

And, of course, the Day of the Dead celebrations, where the city dresses in all the elements that attract our ancestors to this annual gathering.

As you can see, Oaxaca has much to offer throughout the year for the eye and all the senses to explore and discover.

In Oaxaca, you can walk and take pictures, visit places, and participate in guided tours that will help you understand the political, economic, and social issues that have long plagued the city.

Which Are the Best Things to Do in Oaxaca?

I have known for a long time that the best things to do when traveling are only the things you love to do, but if I am being completely honest, that does not necessarily apply to Oaxaca.

If you have the time, you should try to work through the entire list of things to do in the city and, of course, make time for day trips from Oaxaca , which I will mention briefly here below and more in detail in another dedicated post.

How Many Days Do I Need in Oaxaca?

I think 5 to 7 days is a reasonable amount of time to finish everything at an average pace and still find time to relax. But of course, the more, the better.

Unmissable Things to Do in Oaxaca Mexico

1. Walk Walk Walk (And Visit the Tourism Office)

Honestly, I am a bit old school and love paper. Every time I am in a new place, I grab a map, figure out how far the “safe area” is to roam, and then I just go.

I also usually talk to the people at the hotel or lodging I am staying at. I ask them: where do you go? Where do you eat? What to do in Oaxaca City Mexico? This works great for me; you get to connect with the locals instead of looking at an Oaxaca travel guide.

Also, on my walks, I usually make the tourist office my first stop to find out about any special events or activities that might be going on during my stay.

The Oaxaca tourism office I usually visit is located downtown at 102 Calle Mariano Matamoros , and of course, there are other offices scattered around the city. They are usually open between 9:00 am and 6:00 pm.

2. Take a City Tour or a Free Walking Tour

For shared or private city tours (and other tours), I have mentioned them before, and I am probably biased (but no, they are the best).

You can contact Trez Travel , a fantastic local travel agency with lots of experience in the city and the state of Oaxaca.

And you can contact Gabriel Sanchez, who offers top-notch private services and tours.

There are many city tours that I will include here below, or you can go directly to the main tourist attractions and find local guides offering paid mini-tours of the place, for example, at el Templo de Santo Domingo de Gúzman.

Regarding a free walking tour , I recommend the one organized by Estación Mexico . It takes you outside the main downtown attractions and takes place every day at 11 am.

The meeting point is the main zocalo in front of the El Márques del Valle hotel .

I always take these tours and highly recommend them as a starting point. Please remember that “free” does not mean you take the tour and leave without paying anything.

The guides do this job for a tip, so I recommend you always offer at least 100 pesos per person for a 2-hour tour.

You can also find more walking tours with different itineraries here

3. Take a Sightseeing Tour Around Oaxaca by Tram

For people who are not very mobile or generally have trouble walking, I want to mention something here that I have never done because I love hiking.

However , at the corner of Macedonio Alcalá and Morelos Street , a tram will take you on a sightseeing tour of downtown Oaxaca .

It is called “ Tranvía el alebrije .” Please be warned that this tour is very slow. It is a large tram that must be almost full to run. It runs every 30 minutes, and the cost is about 70 pesos per person. The language is Spanish only.

4. Visit the Zocalo and the Oaxaca Cathedral

As in any colonial city, Oaxaca’s main square, zocalo , is always the perfect place to start exploring and one of the best places to visit in Oaxaca.

And why is that? Well, remember that our territory was conquered and colonized. Mexico started to be built on these squares, and all the elements of colonialism, religious syncretism, and the evolving government system began here.

In every colonial city , including Oaxaca , you will find 3 main elements:

Ecclesiastical power in the form of a monastery or cathedral. In Oaxaca city, we have the Catedral de Nuestra Señora de la Asunción .
Political powe r – the colonial buildings of the time were palatial and built to “govern” the city, and so we find what we call today “Palacio de Gobierno de Oaxaca.”
The open square , the atriums, or “ Plaza Mayor ,” are the spaces where everything converged. All pre-Hispanic and colonial activities merged in these places.

One reason I enjoy sightseeing tours is that the local guides can provide interesting facts and information that is hard to find elsewhere.

For example, I remember my local tour guide explaining how when the indigenous people carved the details of the cathedral’s facade, they hid deities and symbols that were part of their own culture.

So when the indigenous people “prayed” outside the churches, in this case, the cathedral, it was a way to continue worshipping their gods freely without punishment.

We have to remember that in most cases, the Spanish conquerors chose to build each government office and religious center on top of what used to be a sacred site or a symbol of the leadership of pre-Hispanic times.

They did this to show that they were now in charge.

I highly recommend visiting the Zocalo area at least 3 times. One, bright and early . Why? For architecture and photography lovers, it’s a great opportunity to take advantage of the sunrise light and avoid the crowds.

Second, I recommend going after breakfast or in the middle of the day, which is the best time to learn about the main attractions.

Last, in the evening, around 7 pm, for people watching and cultural appreciation.

The evening is when local people go out and enjoy time with their families. You will find couples kissing on benches, friends lining up to eat an esquite , or families buying balloons for their kids.

This is a perfect time to try whatever street food or snack you can find in the Zocalo area. Also, this area is used for many activities like salsa dancing , book fairs , and more, and it all usually happens at night.

5. Walk the Whole of the Pedestrian Macedonio Alcalà From Top to Bottom and Its Streets.

This will undoubtedly take you most of the day. In a later article, I’ll cover some of the restaurants on this street in more detail, but Voces de Copal is one of my favorites, so treat yourself to lunch there.

Café brújula can be found all over Oaxaca, so it’s worth a quick stop for a coffee there as well. If you want to visit a bar, head to La Mezcalerita .

If you have a sweet tooth and want ice cream, stop by Nieves Manolo to try local craft flavors.

Macedonio Alcalá is where you get cash at the ATM , visit some museums , delight yourself in the Oaxacan art galleries, and eat , drink , and SHOP !

There are street vendors during the day, but they become more numerous as the sun goes down.

You can also find street snacks and local drinks like tejate or tamales . Also lots of sweets and pastries.

Usually, an additional artisan market is added to the existing markets during the weekends at the northern part of the street, just at the end of the Santo Domingo Museum .

6. Visit the Mercado Benito Juárez: (Market)

If you have never been to Mexico or any of its local markets but you have seen them portrayed in a movie, this market is the perfect example of what you would expect to see.

This market is the size of a total of 4 street blocks filled. Mexican street vendors , food stalls, and all kinds of trinkets are being sold everywhere, even outside of it. The whole market area is bustling , noisy , and colorful .

Its many aisles offer a combination of local art and handicrafts, traditional clothing, festivities decorations, mezcal stands, fresh fruit, veggies, seeds, chocolate, spices, and every single element used in the mole making, and more.

The best way to experience the market is by asking a lot of questions and doing tastings of everything available.

When you stop at the place where they sell chocolate, ask for a taste. Do the same at the mezcal place. Stop at the local bakery and buy a sweet.

Try the tejate drink. Buy one of the mini string cheese bags and try that too. Go crazy and try the chapulines because they are everywhere. Try it all! T ake it all in. You are in Mexico!

7. Visit the 20 de Noviembre Market

The 20 de Noviembre market is next door to the Mercado Benito Juárez, and here you will mainly go to eat.

You will be able to try: tlayudas , hot chocolate , pan de yema , enchiladas de mole , mole coloradito , tamales and its main “attraction,” the meat aisle . Not a great spot for vegetarians or vegans.

There is a 100-meter (at least) meat aisle where local people buy it to take home, but at 20 de Noviembre, the butchers have decided to set up grills and a seating area right next to the raw meat.

Cecina , tasajo , and chorizo are the 3 main “cuts” in Oaxaca. You can order as much of them as you want, along with tortillas , nopalitos , lemon , and salsa to make your tacos right on the spot.

8. Have a Mezcal at la Casa Del Mezcal and Then Hop on to Other Mezcal Bars

Of course, mezcal is one of the protagonists of any trip to Oaxaca, and there are many places where you can enjoy it, but a good reason to visit is that it is one of the oldest traditional cantinas in the city, founded in 1935.

There, as soon as you walk in, it feels like you are traveling in time. Plus, you find yourself amongst locals of different ages, and they will be interested in striking up a conversation with you, for sure!

Use the opportunity to brush up on your Spanish skills! I am sure you will be fluent after 3 shots. But remember, mezcal shots are to be kissed, not to be chugged .

9. Have Dinner or Drinks in One of the City Rooftop Bars or Restaurants

Oaxaca’s skyline is gorgeous, gives us very pretty sunsets, and its evening weather is delightful, so enjoying a meal or a drink on a rooftop is a must.

I have already mentioned La Mezcalerita , and we can add Mezquite , Gozobi , Terraza los Amantes , Tierra del Sol, or Praga Coffee Bar .

10. Visit the Xochimilco District

The city center of Oaxaca is quite large, but luckily, everything is within walking distance.

You can call the markets, the main square, and the pedestrian zone the most touristy area, but the whole downtown that you should visit includes this district, which is located on the north side of it.

The Xochimilco neighborhood is a very pretty and colorful area to walk around. It is very photogenic because there is quite a bit of street art around there.

People go there to see the Xochimilco arches, the cobblestone streets, and the aqueduct, and also because this neighborhood is where Rufino Tamayo , one of the most outstanding Mexican artists , was born.

11. Visit the Colorful Jalatlaco Neighborhood

This is my favorite neighborhood by far. I love to stay there when I go. This neighborhood is even more colorful than Xochimilco.

Many murals, chocolate shops, coffee places, small boutique hotels , and restaurants exist. Honestly, this is the perfect place for an Instagram photoshoot. It’s idyllic.

In 2019 Jalatlaco was included in the Time Out magazine list of the 50 coolest neighborhoods in the world.

12. Visit the Santo Domingo Temple, the Museo de Las Culturas and El Jardín Etnobotánico de Oaxaca.

If you have only 2 days in Oaxaca and you are interested in learning about its rich history and the local culture, you MUST visit this place. It is large enough that it will take you a great part of your day, but it is worth it.

This temple has been the stage of many historical events throughout history.

During the “reforma times” (part of Mexican history that gives place to the “birth” of a liberal party against the clerical powers), it served the military in different ways, then Porfirio Diaz (Oaxacan and Mexican dictator) gave it back to the church.

At the temple, you can hire a local guide to talk about architecture, history, altarpieces, and a magnificent vault.

The museum is impressive! It consists of 14 rooms that take you through the history of the state of Oaxaca.

From prehispanic times to modern times, you can learn about the different regions, cultures, gastronomy, art, crafts, agriculture, archeology, education, and more.

Unfortunately, most of the museum’s infographics are in Spanish, so it’s a good idea to hire a guide if you do not know the language.

Finally, for nature lovers, we have the botanical garden ( Jardín Etnobotánico de Oaxaca ). Here you can take a guided tour of it and learn all about the state’s agave plants and other endemic flora.

This place is important because Oaxaca is not only the state with the highest number of ethnic groups but also where we can find more plants.

There are guided tours in English and Spanish. Spanish tours are more frequent. For English, you must go Tuesday or Thursday at 11 am, and the entrance fee is 100 pesos . There is no entrance without being part of the guided tour.

13. Try as Many Coffee Shops as You Can

The state of Oaxaca is a coffee producer, and for that reason, the city offers plenty of coffee shops where you can indulge in espressos, cappuccinos, or even iced coffee.

I have mentioned Café Brujula because it is on the main pedestrian street and in many other locations, but it is not my first choice. It’s not bad; it’s become commercialized, like a local Starbucks, if you know what I mean.

One of the best places I know is called CAFETO and BARISTAS . Please DO NOT miss them.

You will find it on Calle de José María Pino Suárez 407- B. It is a tiny location, and having the coffee there can be tricky, but oh so worth it. My second favorite place is BOULENC. This is a great place to enjoy their bakery with a large cappuccino.

Also, Oaxaca is famous for its Cafe Pluma . It is called that because it is grown in the region of Pluma Hidalgo.

This coffee is internationally recognized as the best quality in our country, and it’s sustainably grown in the area. I must mention that this coffee is patented or certified with the “ denominación de Origen ,” meaning that it is a protected brand.

So, look for coffee shops serving this type of coffee when you are there.

Other coffee places to check out are Cafe Nuevo Mundo and Café Café .

14. Eat the 7 Moles Dish

As you may have noticed, Oaxaca is a destination for foodies. There are so many typical dishes that you can find exclusively here, or at least the original version. One of them is the mole .

There are 7 moles in Oaxaca, and having them in one dish is not only a meal but also education .

The Oaxaca moles are different in color, flavor (given by the pepper used or herbs added), preparation, protein served, and other factors.

The list of the 7 moles is: Amarillito , mole negro , coloradito , verde , chichilo , manchamanteles and rojo (red).

My favorite place to have them is Los Pacos , a restaurant behind the Santo Domingo Temple. Las Quince Letras also serves that dish.

15. Take a Cooking Class

👉 Book one of the top-rated cooking classes + market tour with a local chef on this site .

We have already mentioned that Mexico’s gastronomy is also on the UNESCO list of the cultural heritage of humanity, and Oaxaca contributes in great proportion to that inscription.

It is only logical that while in Oaxaca, we become chefs and take a cooking class.

The cooking class I have taken includes drinks like coffee, hot chocolate, margaritas, mezcal shots, and more. Also, it usually includes learning to make mole, as that is the most characteristic meal of Oaxaca.

They can cater to you if you are a vegan or a vegetarian. The class is run by a family in their beautifully decorated home.

Here are some other cooking class options.

16. check out the chocolate process at el mayordomo..

In and around Oaxaca City are many places to learn about the process of making the famous local chocolate.

El Mayordomo is the biggest brand in the state, so if you have a short stay or a small budget, this is a good option because the demonstration is free.

The demonstration only happens in one place, though. You have to go to the Mayordomo store near the Benito Juárez and 20 de Noviembre market.

17. Go to Plaza de la Danza and Eat Ice Cream

So far, we have mentioned 2 very important temples of Oaxaca City, the Cathedral and the Santo Domingo Temple, but we have yet to mention the one most dear to the local people.

I am talking about la Basílica de nuestra señora de la Soledad Cathedral of our Lady of the Assumption).

La señora de la Soledad is the patron saint of the city of Oaxaca and is, therefore, most revered by its people. It is known that many locals hold their weddings, baptisms, quinceañeras, and other ceremonies there.

So, it is very important to make a stop there to make a deeper connection with the Oaxacan culture.

But, you don’t only stop there to learn or sightsee, you go to that area for this very important reason too: Ice Cream!

Outside the basilica is a vast open area called Plaza de la Danza. Many local craft ice cream stalls have taken over a big chunk of the open space, where you can find exciting and creative flavors such as chapulin , mezcal , beso oaxaqueño , tuna , and more.

Make sure you go try them all!

18. Visit MACO Museum of Contemporary Art

Maco is the contemporary art museum of Oaxaca . Unfortunately, it is closed for now, but they are about to announce its re-opening.

The most interesting thing about MACO is that its main intention is to bring together the past and the present, the tradition and the modern, in its exhibitions and installations to portray the state’s cultural wealth and diversity.

If you are looking for different ways to connect and understand the culture of Oaxaca and its social and political issues through art, this is one of the best places to do it.

MACO is located on MACEDONIO ALCALÁ pedestrian street, opening at 10:30 am.

19. Visit IAGO, Institute of Graphic Arts of Oaxaca

The IAGO is a museum and library created by Francisco Toledo, a proud native of Oaxaca, a wonderful artist, and a passionate protector and promoter of the state’s culture.

Unfortunately, Francisco Toledo died only 2 years ago, but his legacy in Oaxaca is very alive.

There is a really funny anecdote about one of the things he did to protect the integrity of the city of Oaxaca.

It seems that some years ago there was an announcement of a McDonald’s to be opening right in the Zocalo area.

So what Toledo did was to call for a peaceful protest in front of the location where it would open and have people eat Tamales to express the unconformity towards having that fast food place there.

This cultural center has 5 exhibition rooms , 3 library rooms , a patio with endemic plants , a coffee shop , and a regional food restaurant .

To go into IAGO, there is no cost, and it opens at 9:00 am.

20. Eat In One of the Delicious Eateries

As we already know, Oaxaca is not short of options for where to eat delicious food.

I promise I will be more specific on which are the best restaurants to try while there, but I will leave you with a couple of recommended places that live in my heart:

Any of the food stalls at the 20 de Noviembre Market
The organic market of El pochote
For Tlayudas, go to Tlayudas el Negro.
For fine dining, go to Los danzantes.
For artists and chefs, go to La Olla.
For the best mole, go to Los Pacos.

Oaxaca Festivals

As I mentioned before, in Oaxaca, you can experience some of the most incredible festivals where the creativity of the locals is expressed at its best. Here I am listing some of the most important ones.

21. Night of the Radishes

This is a deeply rooted Christmas-time tradition in Oaxaca. It occurs on the evening of the 23rd of December and is believed to go back to 1897.

The Night of Radishes is a traditional Oaxacan festival with a popular stamp in which market gardeners and flower growers display the artistic talent of their hands with unique designs made in radish, flor inmortal (a type of flower), and totomoxtle (corn shell plant).

The exhibition lasts only a few hours, but it brings together practically all the local people in the main square who attend to admire the creativity of the participants in this contest.

It is said that this tradition started because, during Christmas times, the farmers would bring all the fresh produce to make dinner.

To make their stalls more attractive, they began to create figures with radishes, adorning them with cauliflower leaves and flowers made from baby onions. They placed radishes, lettuces, turnips, onions, etc., all in an artistic way.

The works that the gardeners and flower growers present are inspired by motifs consistent with the Christmas season, such as the birth of Jesus or the arrival of the Three Wise Me n.

With the Festival of the Virgin of Solitude , the Day of the Dead , typical costumes of the State, dances, amongst others.

22. La Guelaguetza

Gastronomic, artisan, and sports exhibitions, traditional representations of the most diverse communities in the state, as well as exhibitions, concerts, and all kinds of events that share the culture and sport of Oaxaca are some of the events to take place in July , at the Guelaguetza festival.

The origins of this event go back to both colonial and prehispanic times.

It is said that 2 traditional celebrations were held on a hill around the same dates and on the same days, first by the Zapotecs and then by the Carmelite nuns that built a church there ( Iglesia del Carmen Alto ).

This coincidence gave way to what is called Lunes del Cerro (Hill Monday)

The Hill Monday Festivities occur throughout July with folkloric presentations, concerts, exhibitions, and cultural and sports events.

Guelaguetza is a Zapotec word that describes the participation of people through cooperation.

So, groups of people from the 8 traditional regions of Oaxaca get together to present a sample of their cultural heritage through dances performed to the sound of music and songs that are their own, wearing the dress of their respective towns.

In the end, each group distributes to the public their “ Guelaguetza ” composed of objects characteristic of their respective regions.

The Guelaguetza lasts the whole month, and there are events everywhere. Nowadays, there is an auditorium where the main events at cost occur, but the whole city has a constant party day and night.

One of the main “happenings” during those days was the parades called Calendars, in which music bands walk through the streets of the city center, followed by the “chinas” (women holding big baskets) and the “Marmota,” a large spherical lantern, and the “giants,” huge motley type characters controlled by the participants.

23. The Mezcal Fair

The Mezcal originates in Oaxaca, so a Mezcal fair is due. It also takes place during July and is part of the Guelaguetza festivities.

It’s a full set up of Mezcal galleries, gastronomic exhibitions, and cultural and artistic forums in an area of 8,900 square meters in the shape of a cross. It usually takes place in the Paseo Juárez at “El Llano” Park.

Best Day Trips From Oaxaca

Although the city of Oaxaca is not short of things to do and places to visit, its surroundings are brimming with incredible places, both historical sites and natural wonders.

Here I am sharing a quick overview of them, but I will share them in a separate post.

24. The Archaeological Site of Monte Albàn

This is one of the two most important archeological sites in the area. It is only 30 minutes away from Oaxaca City.

The site is located on a low mountainous range rising above the plain in the central section of the Oaxaca Valley. This is a great day trip for history and culture lovers, but also nature lovers, as the views from the highest points are breathtaking.

25. Visit the Town and Ancient Ruins of Mitla

Monte Albán might be the most famous, but Mitla is my favorite of both ancient ruins. Mitla is also said to be the most important site for the Zapotec culture. It is located 40 km away from the city center.

An interpretation of the past says that Mitla was a “ place for rest ” or a place for the dead. Mitla comes from the word “ Mictlan .” One of its meanings is “the underworld.”

Mitla is a pre-Columbian archeological site that expresses the Mesoamerican belief that death was the most consequential part of life after birth. It was built as a gateway between the world of the living and the world of the dead.

We will be talking about Mitla and the rest of the day trips in more detail soon, but I want to mention a fun fact that our guide told us.

One of the interpretations made by historians and archeologists is that Mitla remains so apparently untouched because when the Spanish arrived, intending to destroy the ancient site.

They got stuck in awe of its beauty and decided to spare it and instead build their churches and other colonial buildings around.

So, Mitla becomes a really good place to observe and imagine the past events in which 2 cultures collided.

26. Visit el Tule

The best way to visit El Tule is for you to include it on your day tour, either to Hierve el Agua or Mitla as it is on the same path.

Tule is short for the small town called Santa Maria del Tule , and its main attraction is a huge and ancient ahuehuete tree (as it’s called in the Nahuatl language).

The tree has a circumference of 42 meters, and it is around 1400 years old (according to the local people and legends around the tree). Mexican people refer to this tree as “ El árbol de Tule. ”

One interesting and fun fact that can be polemic at the same time is that there you will find community kids acting as guides that are “working” (for tips) to show you the different formations that can be identified on the tree trunk: a crocodile, a lion, etc.

As you know, everything has changed in times of pandemic, and it’s no exception for this attraction.

Before, you could go within the atrium of the town’s church where the tree is.

But right now, no one is allowed to go within the area, and the tree can only be seen from the transportation or outside the gate, more or less at a distance of 200 meters.

27. Hierve El Agua

This is the popular petrified waterfall of Oaxaca and one of the most amazing natural wonders in Mexico that you must visit.

Hierve El Agua is 1 hour and 40 minutes from the Oaxaca city center. It is one of the best day trips in the area because it’s a perfect place to connect with nature and enjoy breathtaking views.

There you can hike to the top and the bottom of the waterfall, drink fruit juice, eat a tlayuda , or freshen up at the exciting swimming pool, which was made to look like it’s part of the natural geography of the place.

Hierve El Agua belongs to the local community next to it, and there has been a little bit of tension between them and the government, so for a bit, the site was closed.

We got the news that it opened just before the Day of the Dead festivities, but the problem hasn’t found its solution, so if you plan to visit on your own, make sure you confirm that it is indeed open to the public.

Here are some tour options to Hierve El Agua .

28. Mezcal Tasting at Don Agave

Don Agave is a mezcal house that produces several mezcal brands of multiple agave plants.

They produce the mezcal the artisanal way, and they are located around 30 minutes away from Oaxaca City.

Don Agave offers a mezcal tour to learn about its making from the beginning, and they have you participate in a tasting right after.

The one I experienced (several times) included as many as 8 to 10 different types and 5 or 6 mezcal cream flavors . They are fun!

You can also have lunch there. They have a very good Oaxacan food restaurant.

29. Arts and Crafts Workshops Visits and Demonstrations

Another of the top things to do on a day trip to the surrounding area of Oaxaca is to go to arts and crafts workshops to demonstrate the making processes and to shop, of course!

3 of the most sought workshops are:

The Alebrijes of San Martin Tilcajete village.
The Barro Negro of San Bartolo Coyotepec
The wool and cotton carpets of Teotitlán del Valle

All the 3 villages are a short driving distance from the city center.

Where to Stay in Oaxaca City Mexico

I recommend always staying in the central area , including the Xochimilco and Jalatlaco neighborhoods. These are some of my recommendations:

Oaxaca Real : Great value, located parallel to the Macedonio Alcalá pedestrian street.
Parador del Dominico : very close to the Santo Domingo Temple.
Hostal de las Américas : budget and central.
Hotel Magda – simple and inexpensive in the Jalatlaco neighborhood
Hotel Casántica for a more high-end treat in the main downtown area.

Read more on where to stay in Oaxaca City, Mexico , or check directly on the map below.

Things to Do in Oaxaca City Mexico: FAQ

What should i do in oaxaca.

Well, if I had to choose, I would go on a cooking class that included a market visit and mezcal tasting, and I would spend the Day at the Santo Domingo Temple , at el Museo de las Culturas, and the Jardín etnobotánico de Oaxaca

How Many Days Do You Need in Oaxaca?

If you are a traveler that is going at a fast pace through Mexico, 2 nights and 3 days is enough to take in the city and make some day trips.

If you have more time and budget while traveling through Mexico but still can’t do a whole week, give Oaxaca 4 nights and 5 days.

If you are planning to come to Oaxaca only and can do it, stay the full week or even 10 days.

Is Oaxaca Safe Right Now?

The short answer is YES; Oaxaca is safe right now, but you have to consistently apply common sense.

As we discussed in our article on safety in Mexico , the basic principles of staying safe are summed up in the following list.

– Do almost everything in daylight. – Don’t flash money. – Keep your valuables in the hotel’s safe or develop your own safe hiding places. – Don’t flash jewelry or many electronic gadgets in areas like local public markets or at crowded events. – Don’t get too drunk and mix and mingle with just anyone. – Do not do drugs. – Do not leave your things unattended ANYWHERE. – Keep your purse or bags in front of you. – Do not put anything valuable in your clothes pockets – By no means become a revolutionary and join social demonstrations of any kind.

All of the above applies to men, women, and all.

What 3 Things Is the State of Oaxaca Known For?

The Oaxaca state is mainly known these days for its gastronomy for the Day of the Dead and its arts and crafts.

What Food Is Oaxaca Mexico Famous For?

The most popular food of Oaxaca is, of course mole, chapulines , Tlayudas, and their tasajo meat.

How to get from Puebla to Oaxaca

Getting from Puebla to Oaxaca is easy. ADO busses will get you there in about 6 hours and you can travel either by day or night. Or you can rent a car. In the detailed articles linked above I explain it in detail.

Final Thoughts

After this thorough article, I am sure you are ready to tackle the city and make the most of your time there. Stay tuned as more articles on the city are coming out soon.

Before You Go…

Here are some useful posts that you may be interested in…

How Much Cash to Bring to Mexico
Renting a Car in Mexico
35 Mexico Travel Tips You Need to Read Before Traveling
The Best Travel Insurance for Mexico
Why Buy a Mexican Sim Card When You Travel

✨ Mexico Travel Planning Guide ✨

👉 do i need travel insurance to travel to mexico.

I would do it if I were you. You never know what can happen and know that no matter what, you will be covered with any expenses will give you peace of mind, and make your travel worry-free. You can check out SafetyWing which I have used and find it affordable and comprehensive and also Travel Insurance Master w hich is great because you can insert all your information and what kind of insurance you need and their system will pull out the best insurance for your need.

🚰 Can I Drink Tap Water in Mexico?

No, you can’t! Maybe in some areas or in some homes where they have installed water filters but to be on the safe side, I would say, never drink tap water in Mexico. Carry a water bottle with you and fill it up where you find available potable water sources. Most of the hotels have those.

🚗 Is It Safe to Drive in Mexico?

The short answer is: depending on where you are. Although in general if you stick to the main roads and don’t drive at night you should probably be safe. In lesser tourist areas you should probably check the local news to stay up to date. Driving in the Yucatan Peninsula is easy everywhere, even at night, although I would still avoid it. I recommend Discover Cars because the site offers the option to compare prices among different car rentals and you can add their own full coverage.

Read more on my guide on Renting a car in Mexico .

📱 Will My Phone Work in Mexico?

It will probably work, especially if you have a European or US phone, but your roaming rates may be to the stars (check with your SIM provider). Even if have an affordable international rate, you will be much better off by buying a Mexican SIM Card . It’s cheap, easy to set up, and it will keep you connected with your friends, family, and, more important, google Maps so you will never get lost!

🤕 Is It Safe to Travel to Mexico Right Now?

The short answer is, yes it is. However, there are parts of Mexico that are indeed troubled and you should avoid for now, and others that are super safe and easy to travel around.

Regardless of where you are you should always use some common sense rules such as, never flaunting expensive clothing, accessories, electronics, or money and keeping a low profile.

Read more on my detailed guide on safety in Mexico . If you are traveling to a specific destination I have got you covered as well:

Is Cancun Safe?
Is Tulum Safe?
Is Puerto Vallarta safe?

💉 Do I Need Any Vaccine to Travel to Mexico?

No, there is no vaccine requirement (of any kind) to travel to Mexico

🇲🇽 Do I Need a Visa to Travel to Mexico?

If you are coming from the US or Europe you don’t need a VISA to enter Mexico. Once you get in you need to fill out a form that you need to keep with you until you leave. If you don’t have it you will pay a fine. Although the tourist visa for US and European travelers used to be 6 months long which you could easily renew by leaving the country for a couple of days and going back, nowadays they have been stricter. You may be asked how you would sustain your living and other similar questions. Sometimes they even ask you to show your credit cards. It seems odd but they can do that. If you intend to stay longer than a usual couple of weeks’ vacation time, just be honest and explain your plans. If you are not from the US, check this site to see if you need a visa

💸 Where Do I Find the Best Travel Deals for Mexico? 💸

A trip to Mexico can be expensive if you love to travel with all the comforts (like I do). There are a few tricks that will help you find the best deals. Here are my tips:

👉 DON’T travel in the high season, which is Holy week, Christmas and winter in general, and August. 👉 Book months in advance to find early booking discounts 👉 Use aggregators such as Discover Cars to find price comparisons and VRBO for vacation rentals! 👉 Look for packages flights+hotels on Expedia . 👉 Check on Booking.com or Hotels.com for hotel deals

Happy travels!!

Bianca is a Mexican, a traveler, an ally, a dreamer, a creative, 100% human and so much more. Bianca has +20 years of experience in personal travel throughout 3 continents, and many countries, cities, towns, and communities. A passionate advocate of her country (despite it all), an amateur writer & blogger, an art lover, a certified yoga teacher, an entrepreneur, a neophyte researcher, a philosophy fan, and knowledge-obsessed. And, even if in baby steps, she is making the dream, come true through her brand: Mexico4Real Journeys

México » States » Oaxaca

Tourism in OAXACA

The Church of Santo Domingo de Guzmán features impressive Baroque architecture. The old convent was transformed into the Academic and Cultural Center of Oaxaca, a museum of historical pieces. Discover the “Treasures of Tomb 7,” the remains of a Zapotec tomb containing precious stones and jewels. The Ethnobotanical Garden is an ideal place to enjoy the beauty of the native plants of Oaxaca under a bright sun. Oaxaca is known for its open-air markets and its gastronomy, which you can enjoy during your stay. The region is especially known for its tamales, moles, and creamy hot chocolate.

Visit Oaxaca during one of the many festivals that take place throughout the year. The most popular are the Day of the Dead, which takes place over three days in autumn, and the Guelaguetza, a very popular folk dance festival, in the summer.

Immerse yourself in local history at one of the many museums in Oaxaca. The Museum of Contemporary Art (MACO) is located in one of the oldest buildings in the city, which is already a spectacle in itself. It also includes works by artists from the region.

Take a day trip to Monte Albán , an internationally protected site called a World Heritage Site. Located less than twenty minutes from the city center, the ancient site is one of the oldest Mesoamerican cities in the world. Explore its pyramids and temples to enter the era of Zapotec culture.

Tourist Attractions in OAXACA

Santo Domingo Cultural Center

The Santo Domingo Cultural Center is a cultural complex that is located in what was one of the most important convents in the colony. It is a large convent in which the Museum of the Cultures of Oaxaca, the Fray Francisco de Burgoa Library and the Ethnobotanical Garden have been established. The Néstor Sánchez Public Newspaper Library is located in a building that is part of the complex but dates from the 19th century.… Read More

Monte Alban

Monte Alban is the most important archaeological zone of the Oaxacan entity, of unique regional importance due to the religious, political and economic control that the Zapotec state exercised over the population of the Valley of Oaxaca for more than thirteen centuries. It has been named by UNESCO Cultural Heritage of Humanity together with the city of Oaxaca on December 11, 1987. The heritage of the Zapotec world reaches us through the magnificent archaeological sites designed in the Valley of Oaxaca. Of these, the city of Monte Albán stands out for its enormous importance as an economic, political and religious hub (it was the first urban complex in Mesoamerica); by its extension, almost as big as the current capital of Oaxaca; and for its long life, started around 500 BC and concluded around 850 AD.… Read More

La Guelaguetza

The Guelaguetza is an ancient tradition with pre-Hispanic roots related to agricultural ceremonies of gratitude to the gods for the arrival of the rains and the lifting of the harvest at the end of July and is the largest festival in Oaxaca. La Guelaguetza is a celebration of gratitude for the arrival of the rains and the harvests, in which representatives from all regions of the state gather in the capital to share their culture through dances, crafts and food. La Guelaguetza is celebrated every year on the two Mondays after July 16, except when the first Monday is July 18, Benito Juárez’s death anniversary. Many types of dances also participate, such as the traditional Flor de Piña; where women usually dress in Huipiles representing the different regions of the state, as well as with their pineapple on their shoulders, they comb their hair with beautiful long braids accompanied by their ribbons and can not missing her accessories that is, bracelets, necklaces and earrings of precious colors and her beautiful makeup.… Read More

Mezcal is a rich, handcrafted flavored drink that requires considerable attention to be produced. Mezcal is normally served with white salt or worm salt (salt mixed with a cooked larva and ground chili), lemon or orange. Mezcal production today remains more or less as it was when the Spanish arrived hundreds of years ago. Each “recipe” is transmitted from generation to generation within the families that care about its production; Because each family has its own approach to mezcal production, there are an enormous number of different flavors. It is also in this way that the rich diversity of flavors and traditions are preserved for all to enjoy.… Read More

Beaches in Oaxaca

The beaches of the coast of the state of Oaxaca are among the most beautiful and complete in Mexico, thanks to a developing tourist infrastructure and the rich gastronomy of the Pacific. Along the 533 kilometers of coastline, the beaches of Oaxaca offer a wide variety of activities for lovers of water sports: snorkeling, diving, sport fishing, surfing, among others… there is something for everyone!… Read More

Archaeological Sites in Oaxaca

Oaxaca is famous throughout the world for its archaeological sites and the history they keep. Discover Monte Alban, Mitla, Yagul and more of these remote sites, which have made Oaxaca a World Heritage city, according to Unesco. The original Zapotec and Mixtec peoples of Oaxaca lived in the cities and religious centers of the valley of this city until the time of Spanish colonization. Today, there are still vestiges of these towns and places where you can meet them.… Read More

Ecotourism and Adventure in Oaxaca

Oaxaca, located in the southeast of Mexico, is an example of a singular miscegenation that even in the midst of modernity never forgets its origins. In its varied geography, it brings together not only a vast biodiversity, considered among the largest in the world, but also insurmountable cultural and ethnic riches, and the most different and beautiful natural settings. An ideal space for Alternative Tourism, Oaxaca offers activities such as walking, mountain biking, rappelling, climbing, zip-lining, horseback riding, observation of flora and fauna and more, in close contact with nature. The visitor can also witness the various aspects of local life, savor the gastronomy and enjoy the warmth of its people, as well as an offer of accommodation in hotels, ecotourism cabins, local houses or excellent camping areas.… Read More

Magical Towns in Oaxaca

In Oaxaca we are proud to have 5 communities that have been awarded the title of Magical Towns of Mexico, a Magical Town is a town that has symbolic attributes, legends, history, transcendent events, everyday life, in short magic that they emanate in each of their socio-cultural manifestations, and that today mean a great opportunity for tourist use. The Magic Towns Program contributes to revalue a group of populations in the country that have always been in the collective imagination of the nation as a whole and that represent fresh and different alternatives for national and foreign visitors.… Read More

Gastronomy of Oaxaca

The Oaxacan gastronomy takes you on an amazing journey into one of the most outstanding and colorful cuisines in the world. Oaxacan food is among the most varied and delicious in Mexico, UNESCO has declared it Humanity’s Cultural Patrimony. Oaxaca’s gastronomy incorporates elements of pre-Hispanic cuisine, and lively imagination has created combinations that amaze by the color, the aromas and the flavors. The list of dishes that characterize this cuisine is endless, however, we can mention: Oaxacan Mole in its 7 varieties depending on the type of chili used, Chapulines, (dry roasted, spiced grasshoppers), tlayudas (large tortilla spread with the remaining of the lard and beans), maguey worm sauce, chiles rellenos (stuffed chilies), and of course the famous Oaxacan tamales in banana leaves. Oaxaca cheese is a soft white string cheese, which is similar to mozzarella. It is sold in “ropes” which are wound onto themselves into balls, and eaten cold or lightly melted on quesadillas is considered among the best in the world.… Read More

Oaxaca City Surroundings

Oaxaca is a destination that offers a great variety of attractions and tourist charms which leave anyone surprised. When arriving in the city of Oaxaca, the most common is to visit the historic center, the Santo Domingo Temple, the Macedonio Tourist Walk, the gastronomic delights in the Benito Juárez market, the Basilica de la Soledad, among other attractions. And one of the places that you cannot miss is the Monte Alban archaeological zone, which is approximately 30 minutes by car from the historic center. However, there are other places that are also worth knowing and are in the surroundings of the city. For this reason we recommend the following tourist routes.… Read More

Traditions of Oaxaca

In the state of Oaxaca there are many customs and traditions throughout the year, and within the state, said that they have the same purpose of celebration but with different things, in fact from one region to another or even more from one town to another, the Customs vary for perhaps details but that is what makes them authentic. All the holidays are celebrated, the profane and the religious ones. The festival calendar is extensive due to the diversity of ethnic groups, which they still conserve. Oaxaca has a combination in its traditions of the culture of the ancestors and the current culture, a state that does not lose its customs, adapts them to new times and needs.… Read More

Handicrafts from Oaxaca

Handicrafts from Oaxaca are a great tradition and they offer a diversity that denotes the artistic richness and imagination of its people. The talented artisans of Oaxaca make beautiful pieces of clay, textiles, wood, metal, skins and other materials, forming a rich and varied folk art in both decorative and useful items.… Read More

Oaxaca City

Oaxaca is the most diverse state in Mexico. It has peaks that reach more than 3,000 meters high, caverns that are among the deepest in the world, virgin beaches, secluded forests, and sunlit valleys. Oaxaca is rich in traditions and customs and has the largest ethnic population found in Mexico. The City of Oaxaca, the state capital, is famous for its architecture and for its rich cultural traditions. Oaxaca is also graced by a splendid and varied cuisine and spring-like weather year round. UNESCO declared the city a Cultural Heritage Site.… Read More

Map of OAXACA

Guided Tours in OAXACA

Flights & hotels in oaxaca, more tourist attractions in mexico.

Magical Towns

A Magical Town is a place with symbols and legends, towns with history that in many cases have been the scene of transcendent events for our country, they are places that show the national identity in each of its corners, with a magic that emanates from its attractions ; visiting them is an opportunity to discover the charm of Mexico. The Magical Towns Program contributes to revalue a set of populations in the country that have always been in the collective imagination of the nation and that represent fresh and varied alternatives for national and foreign visitors. A town that through time and in the face of modernity, has conserved, valued and defended its historical, cultural and natural heritage; and manifests it in various expressions through its tangible and intangible heritage. A Magical Town is a town that has unique, symbolic attributes, authentic stories, transcendent events, everyday life, which means a great opportunity for tourist use, taking into account the motivations and needs of travelers.… Read More

Capital Cities

Folklore, gastronomy, literary culture, art and exhibitions, is what you will find in the capitals of the states of Mexico. To the north, colonial Mexico, Puebla, Guadalajara, Guanajuato, the Sonoran desert and the California peninsula. To the east Veracruz and the gulf. To the west Acapulco, Oaxaca and Tuxtla Gutiérrez. And to the south the Riviera Maya and the pyramids of Chichén-Itzá, Tulúm and Cobá in Yucatán, Palenque in Chiapas, the cenotes, and the Central American jungles.… Read More

States Of Mexico

Mexico has an incredible diversity of landscapes, where the beauty of its beaches, internationally recognized, stands out. In its vast territory of coasts, there are beaches of unparalleled beauty, and colorful landscapes. A large network of first-class hotels and tourist services is available to visitors to these beaches. Mexico is also mystical places, dotted with archaeological testimonies inherited from its original inhabitants. Monuments made by the Mayas, Aztecs and Toltecs are located in magical landscapes, like lighthouses in an ocean of natural beauty. They offer visitors buildings that tell their history, and museums that collect their cultural heritage. And that keep alive ancestral traditions, in ceremonies and festivals, where you can enjoy cultural activities and entertainment.… Read More

Ecotourism and Adventure

Mexico is one of the best countries for Ecotourism as it has a great variety of flora and fauna, as well as a large number of refuges for extraordinary species. You can enjoy recreational activities of appreciation and knowledge of nature through contact with it, such as: stargazing, observation of natural attractions, wildlife and bird watching. Throughout México there are more than 176 protected natural areas, 5 of them considered by UNESCO as Natural Heritage of Humanity. Just for this and much more, we believe that Mexico is a Paradise for Ecotourism.… Read More

The Gastronomy of Mexico has a great diversity of typical dishes, which is why it was recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Heritage of Humanity. The basic and representative ingredients of Mexican dishes are: corn, coriander, chili, beans, piloncillo, nopal and tomato. Mexican cuisine is also characterized by its sauces, which serve as an accompaniment to traditional dishes, prepared based on spices.… Read More

Traditions in Mexico

It is practically impossible to make a meticulous, and above all, accurate selection of the places to visit in Mexico. Each place that our country houses is unique and beautiful in its own way. Mexico, with its nearly 2 million km², has a large number of scenarios to offer, as well as endless activities to do. Do not lose your way and enter the places to visit in Mexico. In Mexico, apart from the beaches and its famous archaeological sites, there are many other really interesting sites and activities that you should know. In the surroundings of the main cities you will find places full of culture and tradition, where you can spend relaxing, interesting and fun vacations. On your trip through Mexico you cannot stop obtaining souvenirs, the crafts that are made here are of the highest quality and recognized worldwide. A shopping tour cannot be missed.… Read More

Archaeological Sites

The Archaeological Zones are the cultural past of every Mexican. You will be amazed at the ambient, nature and the environment that surrounds them. Climbing to the top or being around it will take us back in time to admire every detail. México is a country of culture and traditions, many of which we have inherited from the pre-Hispanic inhabitants of this vast territory, although it is true that there were more settlements in the central and southern part of the country, it is also possible to find some archaeological remains in the north. … Read More

On the Beaches of Mexico you can immerse yourself in the intense blue ocean of the Pacific bays, sunbathe on the shore of the warm and transparent waves of the Caribbean Sea in Quintana Roo or even rest on the beautiful coasts of the Gulf of Mexico. Mexican beaches hide wonderful secrets for the traveler. By visiting them, in addition to enjoying the excellent climate and water activities, you can discover splendid archaeological sites and interesting colonial cities without traveling long distances.… Read More

Climate & Weather

Oaxaca has a tropical savanna climate, closely bordering on a humid subtropical climate, due to its high altitude.

During the dry season, temperatures during the day remain warm with an average high of 27°C in the coolest month, December, and an average high of 33°C in April, just before the beginning of the wet season.

Although daytime temperatures are warm, nighttime temperatures are cool with an average low of 9°C in January.

Precipitation is concentrated in the summer months with June being the wettest with an average precipitation of 171 mm.

Origin of the name

The word Oaxaca is derived from the Nahuatl word Huaxyacac (“among the huaje trees”). This word was later Hispanicized to Guajaca and later spelled as Oaxaca.

The suffix of “de Juárez” was added in 1872, in honor of Benito Juárez.

The city of Oaxaca is nicknamed “la Verde Antequera” (“the green Antequera”) due to its prior name “Nueva Antequera” (“New Antequera”) and the variety of structures built from a native green stone.

History & Timeline

There had been Zapotec and Mixtec settlements in the valley of Oaxaca for thousands of years, especially in connection with the important ancient centers of Monte Albán and Mitla, which are close to modern Oaxaca city.

The Aztecs entered the valley in 1440 and named it “Huaxyacac” (“among the huaje trees”).

A strategic military position was created here, at what is now called the Cerro (large hill) del Fortín to keep an eye on the Zapotec capital of Zaachila and secure the trade route between the Valley of Mexico, Tehuantepec and what is now Central America.

When the Spanish arrived in 1521, the Zapotecs and the Mixtecs were involved in one of their many wars. Spanish conquest would end this fighting.

The first Spanish expedition here arrived late in 1521, headed by Captain Francisco de Orozco, and accompanied by 400 Aztecs. Hernán Cortés sent Francisco de Orozco to Oaxaca because Moctezuma II said that the Aztec’s gold came from there.

The first mass was said here by Chaplain Juan Díaz on the bank of the Atoyac River under a large huaje tree, where the Church of San Juan de Dios would be constructed later.

This same chaplain added saints’ names to the surrounding villages in addition to keeping their Nahuatl names: Santa María Oaxaca, San Martín Mexicapan, San Juan Chapultepec, Santo Tomas Xochimilco, San Matías Jalatlaco, Santiago Tepeaca, etc.

This group of Spaniards chose their first mayor, Gutierres de Badajoc, their first town council, and began construction of the cathedral of Oaxaca in 1522. Their name for the settlement was Guajaca, a Hispanization of the Nahuatl name (which would later be respelled as Oaxaca).

The establishment of the relatively independent village did not suit Hernán Cortes, who wanted power over the entire region for himself. Cortés sent Pedro de Alvarado, who proceeded to drive out most of the village’s population.

Once again, the original founders appealed to Spanish royal authority, this time to the viceroy in Mexico City, Nuño de Guzmán. This viceroy also sided with the original founders, and the town was refounded in 1529 as Antequera, in honor of Nuño de Guzmán’s hometown. Francisco de Herrera convened the new, Crown-approved town council, and the first layout of the settlement was mapped out by Juan Peláez de Berrio.

In the meantime, Cortés was able to obtain from the crown the title of the Marquis of the Valley of Oaxaca, which contains the disputed village. This permitted him to tax the area heavily, and to have control of the territory that surrounded the village.

The village was then in a position of having to survive surrounded by villages which answered Cortés. These villages not only did not take orders from Antequera, but they were hostile to it, mostly likely encouraged by Cortés.

To counter this, the village petitioned the Crown to be elevated to the status of a city, which would give it certain rights, privileges, and exceptions. It would also ensure that the settlement would remain under the direct control of the king, rather than of Cortés. This petition was granted in 1532 by Charles V of Spain.

Tourist Attractions & Sightseeing

Oaxaca is a vital center for Mexican rich culture and heritage, and the Historic Center is the heart of Oaxaca City. It’s a picturesque area with well-preserved colonial buildings, charming cobblestone streets, and markets.

The Plaza de la Constitución

Zócalo (Plaza de la Constitución) was planned in 1529 by Juan Peláez de Berrio. During the entire colonial period, this plaza was never paved, nor had sidewalks, only a marble fountain that was placed here in 1739.

The fountain was removed in 1857 to put in the kiosk and trees. In 1881, the square was rearranged again and in 1885, a statue of Benito Juárez was added. It was remodeled again in 1901 and a new kiosk was installed.

Government Palace

The State Government Palace is located on the main square of Oaxaca City.

This site used to be the Portal de la Alhóndiga (warehouse) and in front of the palace is the Benito Juárez Market. The original palace was inaugurated in 1728, on the wedding day of the prince and princess of Spain and Portugal.

The architectural style was Gothic.

The building currently on this site was begun in 1832, inaugurated in 1870 but was not completed until 1887. The inside contains murals reflecting Oaxaca’s history from the pre-Hispanic era, the colonial era, and post-independence.

Most of these were painted by Arturo Garcia Bustos in the 1980s.

Federal Palace

The Federal Palace is located across from the Cathedral and used to be the site of the old Archbishops’ Palace until 1902.

Its architecture is “neo-Mixtec” reflecting the nationalism of the early 20th century and the reverence in which the Mixtec-Zapotec culture has been held in more recent times.

The architectural elements copy a number of those from Mitla and Monte Albán.

Alameda de León

Northwest of the Zócalo is the Alameda de León, a garden area that is essentially an annex of the main square. In 1576, viceroy Martín Enréquez de Almanza set aside two city blocks on which to build the city government offices, but they were never built there.

One of the blocks was sold and the other became a market.

Antonio de León, governor of the state of Oaxaca, lived in front of this market and decided to turn it into a park in the 1840s, making it a small replica of the Alameda Central in Mexico City. In 1885, a statue of León was added.

Andador Macedonio Alcalá

The Macedonio Alcalá Tourist Corridor is a street paved with green Cantera that was closed to traffic in 1985 and is now only open to pedestrian traffic.

Along the street are notable places such as the original building to house the Universidad Autónoma Benito Juárez.

The Museo de Arte Contemporáneo (Museum of Contemporary Art) or MACO is located here as is the Plazuela (small plaza) Labastida and the Parroquia de la Preciosa Sangre de Cristo (Parish of the Precious Blood of Christ).

Catedral de Oaxaca

The Catedral de Oaxaca, also referred to as the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption, is the third to be built as the first two were destroyed by large earthquakes in the 16th and 18th centuries.

Construction of this third church began in 1702 and it was consecrated in 1733.

Its facade is made of the green Cantera stone commonly found in Oaxaca’s buildings, and the interior is in Neoclassical style.

The altar features a statue of Our Lady of the Assumption (Nuestra Señora de al Asunción) which was made in Italy during the Porfirio era and is represented by a bronze sculpture brought from Europe and made by Tadoini.

Former Monastery of Santo Domingo de Guzmán

The church and former monastery of Santo Domingo de Guzmán is located 4 blocks north of the Cathedral of Oaxaca.

It was constructed between 1555 and 1666.

It is divided into two parts: the church and the former living (working) areas of the monks. The front of the church is Renaissance-style, in the central relief, Saint Dominic and Hippolytus of Rome are holding up the church.

After La Reforma around 1860, the church was converted into a stable, which caused serious deterioration of the building. It was returned to devotional use at the end of the 19th century.

The living and working areas were converted into barracks and officers´ quarters.

In 1994, work began to convert this area into the Centro Cultural Santo Domingo.

Basílica de Nuestra Señora de la Soledad

The Basílica de Nuestra Señora de la Soledad is located four blocks west of the Cathedral on Avenida Independencia. It was built between 1682 and 1697 by Father Fernando Méndez on a site where supposedly an image of the Virgin Mary appeared inside a box.

It is of Baroque style and finished in 1690. Its front is made of a reddish stone sculpted to look like a folding screen.

In the back of the church is the Museo de la Basilica de Nuestra Señora de La Soledad which exhibits the Virgin’s dresses, offerings, and small paintings done in her honor.

The statue of the Virgin of Solitude, crowned with a 2 kg solid gold crown studded with diamonds – was the subject of a theft recently.

Many years later, the cloister was converted into a correctional facility, a teacher’s college, and a district attorney’s office. Now it serves as the Municipal Palace.

The building conserves a number of valuable items such as paintings, sculptures religious vestments, and a pipe organ dated 1686.

Former Monastery of Del Carmen Alto

The Church and ex-monastery of Del Carmen Alto belonged to the Carmelites who established themselves here in 1696.

The complex began as a hermitage built over the teocalli of Huaxyacac, although in the late 17th century, much of this space was occupied by a jail and barracks.

The project was financed by Manuel Fernandez Fiallo.

Former Monastery of San Juan de Dios

The Church and former monastery of St John of God (Templo y Exconvento de San Juan de Dios), Oaxaca’s oldest church still standing, was completed in 1703.

This is where the first mass in Oaxaca was held in 1521.

Church of San Felipe Neri

The Church of San Felipe Neri is considered a classic example of Baroque with estipite (inverted truncated pyramid) columns from the end of the 18th century and has a large gilded main altarpiece.

While the church overall is Baroque, the portal contains other decorative elements as well.

Benito Juárez married Margarita Maza here in 1841.

Former Monastery of San Catalina

Ex monastery of San Catalina was built in the second half of the 16th century by Dominican monk Hernando de Carvarcos, who also was responsible for the Santo Domingo de Guzmán monastery.

In 1862, the monastery became a jail and at the end of the 19th century, the southern part became the Municipal Palace.

Since 1976, it has been a hotel, called Hotel Camino Real.

Church of the Company of Jesus

Church of the Company of Jesus (Iglesia de la Compañia de Jesús), located to the southwest of the Zócalo, was built by the Jesuits in 1579 and consecrated to Francis Xavier and the Immaculate Conception.

The towers were destroyed by a series of earthquakes and never rebuilt.

Inside the chapel is a statue of the Virgin of Guadalupe with a prayer written in Spanish, English, Náhuatl as well as 12 other languages native to the state of Oaxaca, including 4 dialects of Zapotec.

Cultural Centers, Museums & Theatres

Oaxaca City’s cultural landscape is a vibrant tapestry of tradition and innovation, where museums, theaters, and cultural centers come together to celebrate the rich heritage and creative spirit of the region.

These cultural institutions offer visitors a deeper understanding of Oaxaca’s regional history, art, and culture, making it a must-visit destination for anyone with an appreciation for the arts.

Here’s a list of Cultural Centers, Museums, and Theatres in Oaxaca City.

Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca (Museum of Oaxacan Cultures)

This renowned museum is housed in the former monastery of Santo Domingo. It showcases an impressive collection of pre-Columbian artifacts, including Zapotec and Mixtec treasures. The museum’s architecture alone is a testament to the city’s rich history.

Centro Cultural San Pablo (San Pablo Cultural Center)

San Pablo Cultural Center is a hub for contemporary art and cultural events. It hosts exhibitions, workshops, and performances that celebrate both Oaxacan and international arts. The historic building adds to its charm.

Teatro Macedonio Alcalá (Macedonio Alcalá Theater)

Oaxaca’s main theater, Teatro Macedonio Alcalá, is a beautiful neoclassical building that hosts a wide range of performances, from ballet and opera to concerts and theater productions. It’s a cultural landmark in the heart of the city.

Museo Textil de Oaxaca (Textile Museum of Oaxaca)

This museum is a treasure trove of Oaxacan textile artistry. Visitors can explore the rich traditions of weaving and textiles in Oaxaca, including intricate designs and vibrant colors.

Casa de la Cultura Oaxaqueña (House of Oaxacan Culture)

A cultural institution that offers workshops, exhibitions, and performances, Casa de la Cultura is a place where local artists and artisans come together to showcase their talents and traditions.

Jardín Etnobotánico de Oaxaca (Ethnobotanical Garden of Oaxaca)

More than just a garden, this living museum is dedicated to showcasing the rich plant diversity of the region and its importance in Oaxacan culture. It’s a tranquil oasis in the city.

Teatro Juárez (Juárez Theater)

Teatro Juárez is an iconic architectural gem in Oaxaca City. This 19th-century theater hosts various cultural events, from classical music concerts to contemporary dance performances.

Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Oaxaca (Museum of Contemporary Art)

This museum is a hub for contemporary art enthusiasts. It features a rotating collection of modern and contemporary works by local and international artists, making it a dynamic cultural center.

Centro Fotográfico Manuel Álvarez Bravo (Manuel Álvarez Bravo Photographic Center)

Dedicated to photography, this center honors the legacy of the famous Mexican photographer Manuel Álvarez Bravo. It showcases both contemporary and historical photographic works.

Teatro Principal (Principal Theater)

Teatro Principal is a historic theater in the heart of Oaxaca City. It hosts a variety of cultural events, including theatrical performances and musical concerts, making it a focal point for the city’s artistic scene.

Parks & Gardens

The city contains a number of parks, gardens, and plazas, many of which were former monastery lands, for example, the Jardín Etnobotánico de Oaxaca, surrounding the former monastery of Santo Domingo.

Even better known is the Plaza de la Danza y Jardín Sócrates complex on Morelos Street at the foot of the Cerro del Fortín.

It is part of the area bounded by the Basilica de la Soledad and the Church of San José.

The Plaza de la Danza was constructed in 1959 by Eduardo Vasconcelos to hold the annual Bani-Stui-Gulal (representation of antiquity) dance, held one day before the festival of the Guelaguetza.

The Plaza also hosts other cultural events including art shows, concerts, and political rallies The Socrates Garden is the old atrium of the Basilica de la Soledad converted into a public park in 1881, conserved the bronze chalice which was also made in 1881.

In 1981, the Garden was remodeled adding a new layer of stone to the floor.

The Cerro de Fortín next to it bears in stone letters Benito Juárez’s slogan, “El respeto al derecho ajeno es la paz” (“Respect for others’ rights is peace”).

The Antonia Labastida Garden is named after a woman who fought with Porfirio Díaz during the French Intervention. This park has become a place for artists and artisans to display their wares.

Nearby Archaeological Sites

Monte Albán

Monte Albán is a pre-Hispanic city that was an ancient capital of the Zapotecs. It reached its peak between 500 BCE and 800 CE. Monte Albán is known for its architecture, its carved stones, and the ceramic urns.

In 1987, it was declared a World Heritage Site, along with the city of Oaxaca.

Gastronomy & Cuisine

The city of Oaxaca has long been considered “Mexico’s culinary capital.”

The most notable aspect of Oaxacan cuisine is its variety of moles, a type of complex sauce.

Their origins go back to the melding of Spanish and Arabic food in Spain. After the Conquest, New World ingredients such as chile mulato, ‘miltomate’ (a small whitish wild tomato), tomatoes, peanuts, avocado leaves, and chocolate were incorporated.

While moles can be found in many parts of Mexico, Oaxaca has the greatest variety including negro (black), Colorado (red), coloradito (faint red), chichilo, verde (green), amarillo (yellow), and manchamanteles.

They are sold in markets all over the city as a paste which is combined with water and simmered with a variety of meats.

Other notable foods sold in markets include bars of chocolate (primarily used for making hot chocolate), traditional breads, and chapulines (fried grasshoppers with chile). Street foods include tlayudas, which are large, slightly crispy corn tortillas piled high with ingredients such as grilled beef (called tasajo), cheese, tomatoes, avocados, onions etc.

Local drinks include those made with water, sugar and a flavoring such as aguamiel (honey water), trocitos de melón (melon), horchata (rice), tuna batida (cactus fruit shake), and nuez (nuts) as well as local fruits such as chilacayota and guanábana.

In nearby Tlacolula and Ejutla an indigenous drink called ‘tejate’ is still prepared and sold in the local market.

Known here as the drink of the gods, it is prepared with corn, cacao, cacao flower, and the seed of the mamey fruit. As for alcoholic beverages, this area prefers mezcal, which, like tequila is made from a species of agave but the flavor is very different.

As in other areas in Mexico, chocolate has had special importance here since long before the Conquest. Aside from being a foodstuff, it was also used as medicine, and cacao seeds were used as money.

The chocolate prepared in this city is well-known within Mexico, as it is distinguished by being flavored with cinnamon, almonds, and sugar and is usually prepared with hot water or milk. It is usually served in large coffee cups with a local sweet roll.

The best-known producer of this type of chocolate is Chocolate El Mayordomo, which recently has opened outlets in various parts of Mexico, especially in Mexico City. In their main store in Oaxaca City, you can see them prepare the various types of chocolates they prepare including chocolate pasta.

Traditions & Festivals

The legend of donaji.

Oaxaca is the home of the month-long cultural festival called the “Guelaguetza”, which features Oaxacan dance from the seven regions, music, and a beauty pageant for indigenous women Donají.

The story of Donají is that of a princess from pre-Hispanic Mitla.

When she was born, a seer predicted that she would die for her country. When she grew up, her people, the Zapotecs, were involved in one of their many wars with the Mixtecs. One day, Zapotec warriors brought a prisoner, a Mixtec prince named Nucano, to Mitla.

Taking pity on him, she took care of his wounds. When he healed, he asked her to let him go, which she did. The war continued with the Zapotec king and Donaji forced to abandon their capital of Zaachila.

Peace negotiations were attempted but the Mixtecs did not trust the Zapotec king, taking Donají captive as insurance. This occurred during the Conquest when the evangelization of the country had begun.

Donají asked for baptism and was renamed Doña Juana de Cortés.

As feared, the Zapotecs broke the peace treaty, attacking Monte Albán as the Mixtecs slept. Donají was found in the Atoyac River, decapitated. Time passed. One day a Shepherd came to the place where Donaji was buried by the river.

There was a fragrant lily flower growing. Fifteen days later, he returned to find the same flower, still fresh and fragrant in the same place as if a mysterious force was preserving it. Her severed head serves as part of the coat of arms of the city of Oaxaca and her story is reenacted every year at the Guelaguetza festival.

Guelaguetza

The Guelaguetza, also known as the Fiestas de los Lunes del Cerro (Festivals of Mondays at the Hill) is the major cultural event in the city with origins in pre-Hispanic times. The “Hill” is the Cerro del Fortín, which was the scene of the annual rites to the goddess Centeótl, or goddess of the corn. The hill had a teocalli, or sacred plaza, built by the Aztecs.

Noche de Rábanos

The “Noche de Rábano” or Night of the Radishes is a traditional Oaxaca city tradition.

Artisans show off designs done on large radishes, often decorated with other plant materials. The event only lasts a few hours but draws most of the city’s population to the main square to look at the creations. It occurs each year on 23 December.

Oaxaca Film Fest

Every year in the fall, Oaxaca hosts the Oaxaca Film Fest.

Transportation

Oaxaca-Xoxocotlan Airport is approximately 7 km south of the city center. Most flights are to Mexico City for onward connection, but there are also flights to Huatulco, Cancún, Tuxtla Gutierrez, and Tijuana.

United Airlines has flights between Oaxaca and Houston.

The city has separate first-class and second-class bus stations, offering services to most places within the state of Oaxaca, including the coastal resorts of Huatulco, Puerto Escondido, Puerto Ángel, and Pinotepa Nacional, and also long-distance services to Puebla and Mexico City and other Mexican locations such as Veracruz.

There are several bus lines that run in Oaxaca. The largest is TUSUG, a type of “cooperative” company. All of the drivers own their own buses and are aided by other drivers in purchasing new buses.

Oaxaca City on Google Maps

Oaxaca State of Oaxaca

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Oaxaca State is located in the South-eastern region of Mexico; it borders on the North with Veracruz and Puebla, Chiapas on the East, Guerrero on the West and the Pacific Ocean on the South.

The pleasant sub-tropical climate and the serenity of distant places attract most travellers to the Oaxaca Valley.

It has peaks almost 10,000 feet (more than 3,000 metres) high, caverns among the deepest in the world, virgin beaches, hidden jungles, and luminous valleys that house populations where, as a crucible, cultures of all people who once lived in its midst come together.

Zapotecs, Mixtecs, and the fourteen other ethnic groups still present in its culture and customs; even the Spaniards.

Oaxaca is the most diverse state in Mexico.

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Why mole is Oaxaca's most famous dish

Mexico's culinary heartland, Oaxaca is famed for its array of complex, spiced sauces, known as moles. So much more than side dishes, they're very often the main event.

“If we’re going to talk moles, what better place to do so?” asks chef Carina Santiago, as she welcomes me to the al fresco kitchen of her restaurant, Tierra Antigua. Campfire aromas mingled with the scent of dark chocolate fill the air, accompanied by a distinct rustling noise. It’s the sound of the escobetilla — a densely bristled broom, which a member of kitchen staff is using to move cacao seeds around, flicking her wrist back and forth as she does so.

The cacao is toasting on a comal — a large, flat ceramic griddle first created by the Indigenous Zapotecs — which is ubiquitous in Oaxacan cuisine. Held up by two adobe bricks, the comal is elevated just enough so the wood fire beneath can lick its underbelly, transmitting heat evenly across the griddle. Outdoor cocinas de humo (‘smoke kitchens’) like this have been used by generations of Oaxacans to make their moles.

A sauce, a dish, a food, a tradition, a technique, a celebration: mole isn’t one single thing. With a name originating from the Nahuatl (Aztec) word ‘mōlli’, meaning ‘sauce’, this is a foodstuff that incorporates influences from Indigenous Mexico, Europe and even the Middle East. Recipes are studded with ingredients native to these regions, including chilli, chocolate, olives, cinnamon and raisins.

Endless variations exist, but each mole tends to feature a common technique and presentation: ingredients are toasted separately, ground into a paste, fried, then loosened with chicken stock (usually) before being served alongside some form of protein (often), rice (sometimes) and tortillas (always). There’s no shortage of great food here in Oaxaca — Mexico’s culinary heartland — but it’s the moles that are prized above all else.

Oaxaca is famed as the ‘land of seven moles’ — a gastronomic slogan spun decades ago to advertise the mole festival in the southern Mexican state, back when it had seven regions (today it has eight). I learn this from Olga Cabrera, chef and owner of local institution Tierra del Sol. Olga hails from the mountainous region of La Mixteca but came to Oaxaca city over 20 years ago to raise her family and open her first restaurant. “When I began to cook here in the Central Valleys, I wondered why there were seven moles. I myself had eight and not one of them was part of ‘the seven’,” she tells me.

Olga’s restaurant is known for its 30-plus mole recipes. My walk there takes me past Santo Domingo, the baroque church that serves as the central hub of downtown Oaxaca, and past street vendors hawking huipiles (traditional clothing) and Styrofoam cups of street corn, before turning down the cobblestone walkway toward Tierra del Sol. I sit on the rooftop terrace overlooking the entrance to the botanic gardens, while the sun sets behind the Sierra Norte Mountains, pulling the heat from the day down with it. I sip a mezcal, neat, while I wait for the Tres Generaciones mole — Olga’s recommendation — to arrive.

Jutting out of a rust-coloured sauce is the slim, foot-long leg bone of an heirloom turkey, blanketed with aromatic mole. The mole itself is velvety and weighty, a good match for the tender smoked meat, and has a slow heat that creeps up my tongue from the back of my palate. My mental Rolodex of flavours whirls as I taste chocolate, peanuts, sesame seeds and thyme, all of which I know it contains. I coat my spoon with the creamy sauce, lift it to my nose and inhale. I smell, taste and smell again, desperate to identify more of the 27 ingredients. Yet I struggle to pinpoint specific flavour profiles — a fact not entirely unexpected. They say the essence of a great mole transcends its individual components.

The complexity of Tres Generaciones is on my mind as I sit down with chef Jorge León the next evening at his acclaimed restaurant, Alfonsina. “We just see a plate of mole, but we don’t know all the work there is behind it,” he says. “People think mole is just a jarred chilli paste,” he adds, in reference to the pre-ground blend available at markets and shops throughout the city. “But mole is a process — it’s going to collect the chillies, cleaning them, deseeding them and toasting them.”

Chillies are just one component; the same procedure must be gone through with the other tens of ingredients, which vary depending on the mole in question and can include almonds, chocolate, peanuts, banana, cloves, raisins, pineapple and fresh or dried herbs, alongside staples such as onions and tomatoes.

At Alfonsina, Jorge eschews traditional ingredients like the pork lard, for frying the paste, and the chicken stock, used to loosen the mole into a sauce, instead relying on seeds for fat content and vegetable stock. The result comes alive on the palate. It’s the lightest, most vibrant mole coloradito — a guajillo-chilli-based variety — I’ve ever tasted. Jorge serves his version with a thick, flaky and tender mahi mahi fillet, and it’s spectacular.

In other ways, Jorge’s dishes, including the moles, are the epitome of ancestral, incorporating as many ingredients native to Oaxaca’s various microclimates as possible. “That a tortilla would be made from quality, local corn — that’s how I see contemporary cuisine,” he says. For Jorge, returning to his roots is an innovation. “Cooking with what we’ve always had, that is contemporary,” he tells me.

At Levadura de Olla, chef Thalia Barrios García also designs her menus to emphasise the depth and breadth of the state’s larder. During the rainy season, when wild mushrooms crop up across the cloud forests of Oaxaca, Thalia prepares a duo of foraged-mushroom moles that are dished up alongside one another. The mole de cenizo is rustic and roughly ground, served with burnt tortillas and toasted chillies. Light in body with a good amount of smoke and a touch of bitterness, it’s topped with brunoise enchilado de monte mushrooms, giving it additional heft and texture. Plated alongside it is mole verde, which stands in contrast as a bright, herbaceous, acidic dish with slick ribbons of pan de indio mushrooms throughout. As Thalia says, “it tastes of the countryside”.

( Photo story: savouring the street food of Oaxaca, Mexico ).

A sacred act

The following afternoon, curious to try the famed seven moles served alongside each other, I make my way past bustling Zócalo plaza in search of Restaurante Coronita. Here, around a heavily lacquered mahogany table, is strung fuchsia, indigo and lime-green papel picado (traditional perforated paper bunting). The waitress assures me that, yes, the mole flight is filling, and when the seven red clay bowls arrive on a single platter, each dotted with shredded chicken or pork, any doubts are assuaged.

She recommends I begin with the chichilo, amarillo and verde, before moving on to the manchamantel, almendrado, coloradito and negro. The almendrado is my favourite, its Moorish influence apparent in the sweetness of raisins, the delicate fruitiness of almonds, and the hunks of briny Manzanilla olives.

In popular food culture, mole is a culinary embodiment of mestizaje, the narrative pushed by post-Mexican revolution nation-building elites in the early 1900s, which emphasised the diverse roots of Mexicans as a point of unity, while downplaying individual racial and ethnic identities. Mestizaje propagated the idea that all Mexicans were the same, a single race and national identity, despite the rampant racism and classism that continues to this day. Mole — with its Indigenous and European origins — became the dish to embody a blended, united Mexico.

On the ground in Oaxaca, however, it’s more emblematic of the Oaxacan penchant for celebration. “Mole is a special occasion,” says Jorge. There’s a different type of mole for every event — and its preparation can span days. “When you get married, there’s mole. When you die, there’s mole. For every celebration, we have a mole,” Thalia tells me.

Regional variations in recipes abound, as does the specific mole for each occasion. In the Central Valleys region, where Oaxaca city is located, mole chichilo is most often made for funerals. “We all have that lump in our throat when a family member passes away, and the intensity of mole chichilo eases our tension and grief,” Thalia adds.

Yet, in Teotitlán del Valle, a Central Valleys village just 20 miles outside the city, it’s mole amarillo that’s made in homage to the deceased. It’s also here that Carina Santiago’s family recipes and two restaurants have made her a well-known maestra of moles. Driving from Oaxaca, I take a dusty turn off the highway and onto the two-lane road that brings me into town. Brick compounds that double as family homes and weaving studios line the road, their foot-loomed geometric rugs hanging against the building, rustling in the arid wind.

Seated in her kitchen, Carina tells me her family’s mole story, which goes back several generations. How her great-grandmother taught her to “always treat the ingredients with the respect they deserve”, she says. How the gruelling physicality of making mole — cleaning the chillies, toasting the ingredients, grinding them all together, by hand, with the metate (a sloped, knee-high, four-legged basalt grindstone) is tantamount to a sacred act. “Even kneeling to use the metate is a form of respect,” Carina tells me.

Not all mole is made with the metate, however. When it comes to large celebrations for which hand-milling would be unduly onerous, the ingredients are brought to the town molino, or grinder. Even then, Carina says, mole should be ground with a stone mill, so as to most closely replicate the effects of the metate — although many Mexican home cooks just use a blender.

At Carina’s restaurant, Tierra Antigua, I order the Cerdito de Fiesta (fried pork ribs in a chileajo mole). A burnt-orange sauce arrives with a sprig of coriander alongside a small mound of rice cooked in chicken stock and a basket of blue-corn tortillas. Taking one of the soft, pliable tortillas, I bring it to my nose and breathe in. Even after having lived in Oaxaca for over four years, doing so is still a delight. The chileajo, meanwhile, is light in texture and has a decent amount of heat — the kind that fools you at first, building slowly from the throat. Its name translates as ‘chilli-garlic’, and the sauce’s sweet allium bite is a punch to my taste buds. It’s savoury, tangy, bright and spicy, each spoonful revealing something new.

Heading back to Oaxaca, I pass a sea of blue-green agave fields, the clouds clinging to the Sierra Norte Mountains in the distance. I’ve tasted many moles, each with its own distinct, layered flavour — but I’m nowhere near having tried them all. As Jorge says, “Oaxaca doesn’t have just seven moles, it has infinite moles.”

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Passing Thru Travel

Mexico Uncovered – 15 Must-Visit Destinations in the Land of the Sun

Posted: April 11, 2024 | Last updated: April 11, 2024

<p><strong>Mexico is a country of vast beauty and complexity, offering far more to the traveler than its famous coastal resorts. Beyond the beaches lies a world rich in culture and adventure, where ancient civilizations, colonial heritage, and modern vibrancy converge. From the ruins of Maya and Aztec cities to the bustling streets of Mexico City, the tranquil beauty of the Copper Canyon, and the culinary capitals of Oaxaca and Puebla, Mexico invites explorers to explore its many layers. </strong></p>

Mexico is a country of vast beauty and complexity, offering far more to the traveler than its famous coastal resorts. Beyond the beaches lies a world rich in culture and adventure, where ancient civilizations, colonial heritage, and modern vibrancy converge. From the ruins of Maya and Aztec cities to the bustling streets of Mexico City, the tranquil beauty of the Copper Canyon, and the culinary capitals of Oaxaca and Puebla, Mexico invites explorers to explore its many layers.

Brief History of Mexico

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Bucha Natallia

Mexico weaves ancient civilizations like the Olmecs, Maya, and Aztecs with Spanish colonial heritage and modern struggles for independence and reform. From the establishment of advanced societies with monumental architecture and astronomical achievements to the transformative Spanish conquest in the early 16th century, Mexico’s history is marked by conquest, resilience, and revolution. The fight for independence in the early 19th century, followed by internal conflicts and foreign invasions, paved the way for the pivotal Mexican Revolution, which reshaped the nation’s social and political landscape. Today, Mexico stands as a vibrant federation, its diverse culture reflecting centuries of indigenous traditions enriched by Spanish influences, manifesting in its art, cuisine, and festivals, symbolizing the blend of its complex past with its dynamic present.

<p><span>As you immerse yourself in Mexico City, the nation’s vibrant capital, you’ll encounter a fascinating blend of ancient heritage and modern urban dynamism. This sprawling metropolis, steeped in history, has a UNESCO-listed historic center. The Zócalo, the grandeur of the Metropolitan Cathedral, and the Aztec Templo Mayor ruins await your discovery.</span></p> <p><span>The diverse architectural styles narrate the city’s layered past as you wander. Art aficionados will find solace in the Frida Kahlo Museum and the majestic Palace of Fine Arts, showcasing Mexico’s rich artistic legacy. Mexico City’s culinary landscape is a delight, ranging from traditional street tacos to sophisticated gourmet experiences, ensuring a treat for every palate. Exploring the colorful canals of Xochimilco on a trajinera boat offers a unique glimpse into the city’s vibrant culture and lively spirit. </span></p> <p><b>Insider’s Tip: </b><span>Explore the colorful canals of Xochimilco on a traditional trajinera boat.</span></p> <p><b>When to Travel: </b><span>Spring (March to May) offers pleasant weather and fewer crowds.</span></p> <p><b>How to Get There: </b><span>Mexico City International Airport is well-connected globally, with extensive public transport options to the city center.</span></p>

1. Mexico City’s Historic Center

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Jess Kraft

The heart of Mexico’s capital, the Historic Center, or “Centro Histórico,” is a UNESCO World Heritage site brimming with significant landmarks, including the Zócalo, the Metropolitan Cathedral, and the ancient Aztec Templo Mayor. This area is a testament to Mexico’s layered history, blending architectural styles and cultural influences. Museums, art galleries, and traditional restaurants explore the nation’s heritage and contemporary life.

<p><span>In the ancient city of Teotihuacan, near Mexico City, you’ll find the Pyramid of the Sun and the Pyramid of the Moon. Climbing the steep steps of the Pyramid of the Sun, you’ll feel a deep connection to the rituals and beliefs of its builders.</span></p> <p><b>Traveler’s Insight: </b><span>Plan a visit during the equinoxes to witness the mesmerizing play of light and shadow, believed to be linked to agricultural cycles.</span></p> <p><b>Getting There: </b><span>Teotihuacan is about 50 kilometers from Mexico City. You can take a bus from the North Bus Terminal (Autobuses del Norte) in Mexico City, which drops you at the site’s entrance.</span></p> <p><b>Things to Consider: </b><span>Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and the midday heat. Wear comfortable shoes for climbing the pyramids, and bring water and sun protection.</span></p>

2. Teotihuacan

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Anna-Ch1

Just outside Mexico City lies Teotihuacan, an ancient city known for its massive Pyramids of the Sun and Moon. This archaeological site offers a glimpse into one of the most powerful civilizations of ancient Mesoamerica, with its meticulously planned urban layout and rich artistic legacy. Walking the Avenue of the Dead provides a sense of the city’s scale and sophistication.

<p><span>Oaxaca is a vibrant hub of Mexican culinary tradition, known for its complex mole sauces and richly flavored dishes. The city’s markets brim with fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and an array of chilies. A culinary tour here often includes cooking classes focusing on traditional Oaxacan cuisine, visits to local mezcal distilleries, and tasting the region’s famous chocolate. The experience is a deep dive into the heart of Mexican food culture, where ancient techniques meet contemporary flair.</span></p> <p><b>Insider’s Tip: </b><span>Don’t miss trying the local mezcal with your meals. </span></p> <p><b>When to Travel: </b><span>October to March for pleasant weather. </span></p> <p><b>How to Get There: </b><span>Fly to Oaxaca via Mexico City.</span></p>

3. Oaxaca’s Culinary Scene

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Marcos Castillo

Oaxaca is a culinary treasure within Mexico, celebrated for its diverse and flavorful cuisine. The city and its surrounding regions offer a journey through traditional markets, chocolate makers, and mezcal distilleries. Oaxacan food is a profound expression of cultural identity, with dishes like mole, tlayudas, and chapulines showcasing the region’s rich culinary heritage.

4. The Mayan Riviera

Image Credit: Shutterstock / lunamarina

Beyond the renowned beaches of Cancun and Playa del Carmen, the Mayan Riviera offers access to some of the most significant Mayan archaeological sites, including Tulum and Coba. The region is also famous for its cenotes—natural sinkholes filled with crystal-clear water, ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and diving.

5. Chichen Itza and the Cenotes of Yucatan

Image Credit: Shutterstock / IR Stone

Chichen Itza, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, is a must-visit for those interested in Mayan civilization. This ancient city’s iconic Kukulkan Pyramid (El Castillo) is a Mayan architecture and astronomy masterpiece. The surrounding Yucatan Peninsula is dotted with cenotes, offering refreshing respite and unique snorkeling experiences.

<p><span>Explore Chihuahua, a northern Mexican state that presents the awe-inspiring Copper Canyon, a network of canyons larger and deeper than the Grand Canyon. The region’s breathtaking landscapes are best experienced through the Chihuahua al Pacifico Railway, known as El Chepe, which snakes through this stunning terrain.</span></p> <p><span>The indigenous Tarahumara people, known for their rich culture and traditional crafts, add to the region’s uniqueness. Hiking or guided tours offer an in-depth exploration of the Copper Canyon and an opportunity to engage with local Tarahumara communities. The ideal time to visit is from October to November when the weather is mild, and the landscapes are at their most lush. </span></p> <p><b>Insider’s Tip: </b><span>Plan a hike or a guided tour to explore the depths of the Copper Canyon and visit local Tarahumara communities.</span></p> <p><b>When to Travel: </b><span>The best time to visit is from October to November when the weather is mild and the landscapes are lush.</span></p> <p><b>How to Get There: </b><span>General Roberto Fierro Villalobos International Airport in Chihuahua is the starting point, with train services available to the Copper Canyon.</span></p>

6. Copper Canyon

Image Credit: Shutterstock / FernandoAlcantara

The Copper Canyon, or Barranca del Cobre, in the northern state of Chihuahua, is a network of canyons that collectively are several times larger than the Grand Canyon. This natural wonder offers breathtaking landscapes, hiking, and the world-famous Chihuahua al Pacifico Railway, known as El Chepe, traversing through the canyon’s heart. The region is also home to the indigenous Rarámuri or Tarahumara people, known for their traditional way of life and incredible long-distance running abilities.

7. Puebla’s Colonial Charm

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Puebla, a UNESCO World Heritage city located southeast of Mexico City, is famed for its colonial architecture, vibrant Talavera pottery, and culinary heritage, including the invention of mole poblano. The city’s historic center has beautifully preserved buildings, ornate churches, and bustling markets. Puebla is a testament to Mexico’s colonial past and its ongoing traditions.

<p><span>Discover the timeless beauty of San Miguel de Allende, a colonial-era gem nestled in central Mexico. Renowned for its well-preserved Baroque architecture and thriving arts scene, the city is a visual feast. The cobblestone streets lead to the iconic Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel, a symbol of the city’s architectural grandeur.</span></p> <p><span>Art galleries and artisan shops dot the landscape, offering unique finds and creative inspiration. The local cuisine, served in charming rooftop restaurants, provides a culinary adventure. Participate in a workshop or art class to better understand the city’s artistic soul. </span></p> <p><b>Insider’s Tip: </b><span>Attend a workshop or art class to experience the city’s rich artistic culture.</span></p> <p><b>When to Travel: </b><span>The mild climate makes San Miguel de Allende a great destination year-round.</span></p> <p><b>How to Get There: </b><span>Fly into Querétaro Intercontinental Airport or Del Bajío International Airport and take a bus or taxi to San Miguel.</span></p>

8. Guanajuato

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Rubi Rodriguez Martinez

Nestled in the mountains of central Mexico, Guanajuato is a colorful and vibrant city known for its underground tunnels, colonial architecture, and rich cultural scene. It’s the birthplace of famed artist Diego Rivera and hosts the annual International Cervantino Festival, one of Latin America’s most significant cultural events. The city’s winding alleyways and lively plazas make it a fascinating destination for explorers.

9. San Miguel de Allende

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San Miguel de Allende, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is renowned for its well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture, thriving arts scene, and cultural festivals. The city’s historic center radiates charm and elegance with its cobblestone streets and baroque Spanish buildings. San Miguel de Allende is a hub for artists and writers from around the world, drawn by its beauty and vibrant community.

10. The Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve

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Each year, millions of monarch butterflies migrate from North America to the forests of Michoacán and the State of Mexico, creating one of nature’s most spectacular displays. The Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers visitors the chance to witness this incredible phenomenon up close, as the forests come alive with the vibrant orange and black of the monarch wings.

11. The Gastronomy of Oaxaca

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Oaxaca is a culinary paradise within Mexico, celebrated for its complex flavors, indigenous ingredients, and traditional cooking methods. The region’s gastronomy expresses its cultural diversity, featuring mole, tlayudas, and mezcal dishes. Oaxaca’s markets are vibrant hubs of activity where visitors can explore a wide array of local ingredients, including chocolate, cheese, and chapulines (grasshoppers).

<p><span>Discover Oaxaca, a cultural treasure in Mexico known for its deep-rooted traditions, colonial architecture, and bustling markets. The city’s historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a tapestry of charming streets and colorful buildings. Explore the ancient Zapotec ruins of Monte Albán and marvel at the natural beauty of the petrified waterfalls at Hierve el Agua.</span></p> <p><span>Oaxaca is a culinary paradise celebrated for its mole (not real moles!) sauces and mezcal. Immerse yourself in local culture with a traditional cooking class. The best time to visit Oaxaca is during the Day of the Dead celebrations in late October to early November, a time when the city comes alive with color and tradition. </span></p> <p><b>Insider’s Tip: </b><span>Participate in a traditional cooking class to learn the secrets of Oaxacan cuisine.</span></p> <p><strong>When to Travel: </strong>The ideal time to visit is during the Day of the Dead celebrations in late October to early<span> November.</span></p> <p><b>How to Get There: </b><span>Oaxaca Xoxocotlán International Airport has flights from major Mexican cities and some international destinations.</span></p>

12. The Ruins of Monte Albán

Image Credit: Shutterstock / GillesBelanger

Monte Albán, situated on a mountaintop overlooking the Oaxaca Valley, is one of Mexico’s most significant archaeological sites. Once the ancient capital of the Zapotec civilization, this UNESCO World Heritage site features grand plazas, pyramids, and tombs, offering a window into the region’s pre-Columbian history. The site’s museum provides valuable context for the artifacts and structures, enriching visitors’ understanding of the Zapotec people and their achievements.

13. Baja California’s Wine Country

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Sherry V Smith

The Valle de Guadalupe in Baja California has emerged as Mexico’s premier wine region, known for its innovative wineries and Mediterranean-like climate. The valley offers a scenic backdrop for wine tasting, with a growing number of boutique wineries and farm-to-table restaurants showcasing the region’s agricultural bounty. The area’s unique wines and culinary experiences make it a must-visit for food and wine enthusiasts.

14. The Magic Towns (Pueblos Mágicos)

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Mexico’s Pueblos Mágicos program highlights towns across the country known for their natural beauty, cultural riches, or historical relevance. These “Magic Towns” offer a glimpse into Mexico’s diverse landscapes and traditions, from the colonial architecture of Valladolid in Yucatán to the indigenous culture of San Cristóbal de las Casas in Chiapas. Exploring these towns provides an opportunity to experience the country’s heart and soul beyond the typical tourist paths.

<p><span>The Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a vast protected area that offers untouched natural beauty. It’s a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, with opportunities to see birds, dolphins, turtles, and more in their natural habitat. The reserve offers various eco-tours, including kayaking, fishing, and bird watching.</span></p> <p><b>Insider’s Tip: </b><span>Take a guided tour with a local expert to learn about the reserve’s ecosystems and spot wildlife that you might miss on your own.</span></p> <p><b>How To Get There: </b><span>Sian Ka’an is accessible from Tulum, with tours departing from the town or the reserve’s visitor center.</span></p> <p><b>Best Time To Travel: </b><span>Visit during the dry season (November to April) for the best wildlife viewing opportunities and more comfortable weather conditions.</span></p>

15. The Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Inspired By Maps

Located on the east coast of the Yucatán Peninsula, the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve is a UNESCO World Heritage site that offers an unparalleled natural experience. The reserve encompasses tropical forests, mangroves, and a portion of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, providing habitats for diverse wildlife. Activities include kayaking through mangroves, bird watching, and snorkeling on the reef.

The Bottom Line

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Moy Ortega

Mexico’s vast landscapes and rich cultural heritage offer endless opportunities for exploration and discovery. From the culinary delights of Oaxaca and the ancient ruins of Monte Albán to the innovative wineries of Baja California and the natural wonders of the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, Mexico invites travelers to venture beyond the beaches and immerse themselves in a world of culture and adventure. As you explore this vibrant country, embrace the unexpected, engage with local communities, and respect the natural and cultural environments you encounter. Mexico’s true beauty lies in its diversity, waiting to be discovered by those willing to look beyond the surface.

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The ABSOLUTE Best Things to Do in Oaxaca, Mexico
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Top 5 Attractions to Explore the Awesomeness of Oaxaca

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COMMENTS

15 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Oaxaca
Address: Av Independencia S/N, Centro, 68000 Oaxaca, OAX. 2. Squares and Markets: Zócalo and Mercado Benito Juárez. Many of the most important of Oaxaca's best places to visit are to be found in the city's historic downtown core, an area centered around its central square, or Zócalo: the Plaza de Armas.
Things to Do in Oaxaca, Mexico
5. Mercado Benito Juárez. Visitors to this marketplace are advised to bargain with vendors to get low prices. 6. Pueblos Mancomunados. The Pueblos Mancomunados of the Sierra Norte of Oaxaca constitute one of the most outstanding examples of community social organization in Mexico.
7 Best Things to Do in Oaxaca
Holly Johnson|Alissa Grisler November 10, 2023. Ranking of the top 7 things to do in Oaxaca. Travelers favorites include #1 The Zócalo, #2 Templo de Santo Domingo and more.
20 Best Things to Do in Oaxaca
Walk the Pasillo de Humo in Mercado 20 de Noviembre. Vegetarians, look away! Oaxaca has many interesting markets (more on that in a bit), but perhaps its most famous is the Mercado 20 de Noviembre ...
THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Oaxaca
2023. 3. Hierve el Agua. 2,861. Geologic Formations. Located about 40 miles from Oaxaca, Hierve el Agua makes a great day trip from the city. Here, you'll see two waterfall-like rock formations which were formed when mineral-rich water spilled over the cliffs and trickled down the mountainside. At the top, you can take a dip in the man-made ...
Top things to do in Oaxaca
Embrace Day of the Dead. With its deeply rooted pre-Hispanic traditions, Oaxaca makes for one of the most colorful Día de Muertos (Day of the Dead) experiences in Mexico. Come November 1 and 2, markets throughout the city sell fresh-baked pan de muerto (a seasonal pan dulce). Vivid orange-and-purple altars pop up on public squares.
Oaxaca de Juárez Destination Guide: Best Things to Do
The state of Oaxaca is home to over 300 miles of coastline, so there are plenty of beaches to explore on a weekend getaway. Puerto Escondido, for example, is amassing a lot of tourist attention ...
27 Best Things to Do in Oaxaca
Txalaparta for Dancing. Dance well into the wee morning hours at this energetic nightclub in Oaxaca city. Txalaparta is one of my favorite places to go dancing in Oaxaca. 📍 Google Maps | Phone: +522025551212 | Hours: 1 pm-3 am Monday-Saturday, 1 pm-2:30 am Sundays | Entrance: Free | 👉 Browse Tours on Viator.
Must-see attractions Oaxaca City, Oaxaca
Juchitán. Discover the best attractions in Oaxaca City including Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca, Templo de Santo Domingo, and Zócalo.
THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Oaxaca (Updated 2024)
6. Pueblos Mancomunados. 268. Hiking Trails. The Pueblos Mancomunados of the Sierra Norte of Oaxaca constitute one of the most outstanding examples of community social organization in Mexico. Their Nature trails integrate a network of more tan 100 kilometers of rural footpaths and country roads suitable for hokers and mountain bikers of all ...
Visit Oaxaca: Top 31 Things To Do and Must-See Attractions
Things to do in Oaxaca city: The 31 Best Places to Visit in 2024. Oaxaca de Juarez is one of the most beautiful cities in Mexico, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It's the capital of Oaxaca state, a region rich in cuisine, art, history, and archaeological sites.. If you want to enjoy your stay in Oaxaca to the fullest, you've come to the right place.
Oaxaca Travel Guide (Updated 2024)
Today, Oaxaca is a center for heritage tourism, owing to the many historical attractions (including Monte Albán, a UNESCO Heritage Site; and Mitla, a Zapotec archeological site) in the city and surrounding area. With mouth-watering food, the best mezcal in the world, and tons of history, it's no surprise I fell in love with Oaxaca.
Oaxaca travel
At the center of the state in every way stands beautiful, colonial Oaxaca city, an elegant and fascinating cultural hub. Nearby, the forested Sierra Norte is home to successful community-tourism ventures enabling visitors to hike, bike and ride horses amid delicious green mountainscapes. To the south, across rugged, remote ranges, is Oaxaca's ...
The Ultimate Oaxaca Travel Guide
The Ultimate Oaxaca Travel Guide. Welcome to a land bursting with vibrant cultures, rich history, world-renowned cuisine, and breathtaking landscapes! Oaxaca State, located in southern Mexico, is where ancient traditions blend seamlessly with natural wonders. From archaeological sites and colonial cities to pine forests and pristine beaches ...
26 places to visit in Oaxaca City: the most notable attractions not to
Alameda de Leon. Centro, 68000 Oaxaca. Alameda de Leon is a central square in Oaxaca City, named after the Oaxacan-born President Benito Juárez (born Benito Juárez León). This leafy plaza is a popular gathering spot for locals and visitors alike, offering a peaceful respite amidst the city's hustle and bustle.
10 Best Places to Visit in Oaxaca, Mexico (+Map)
Map of the best places in Oaxaca, Mexico. 10. Yagul [SEE MAP] Although Yagul was first settled around 500 - 100 BC, most of the stunning ruins that we see today date to the 1200 - 1500s, which was when the city-state was at the height of its power. Known to locals as 'Pueblo Viejo' - the old village - Yagul was still inhabited when ...
27 Unmissable Things to Do in Oaxaca City Mexico
Take a City Tour or a Free Walking Tour. 3. Take a Sightseeing Tour Around Oaxaca by Tram. 4. Visit the Zocalo and the Oaxaca Cathedral. 5. Walk the Whole of the Pedestrian Macedonio Alcalà From Top to Bottom and Its Streets. 6. Visit the Mercado Benito Juárez: (Market)
THE TOP 15 Things To Do in Oaxaca (UPDATED 2024)
Top attractions in Oaxaca span history, culture, and nature. In and around Oaxaca city are the Monte Alban archeological site, Santo Domingo de Guzman Temple, the Oaxaca Ethnobotanical Garden, and the Museum of Oaxacan Cultures. A 1.5-hour drive away are the travertine pools Hierve el Agua, a colorful site photographers love.
Oaxaca 101
Sightseeing, Museums, and Shopping in Oaxaca. Here's where our Oaxaca Travel Guide branches off into different directions BUT before you dive in to all the awesome things to do in Oaxaca, I recommend checking out our post on sightseeing. The best reference we found when touring Oaxaca was a free Tourist Guide we picked up at a museum that includes a fold out street map with markers for ...
Oaxaca, Mexico.
Oaxaca is a destination that offers a great variety of attractions and tourist charms which leave anyone surprised. When arriving in the city of Oaxaca, the most common is to visit the historic center, the Santo Domingo Temple, the Macedonio Tourist Walk, the gastronomic delights in the Benito Juárez market, the Basilica de la Soledad, among ...
Oaxaca City Guide
Oaxaca relies heavily on tourism, which is based on its large number of colonial-era structures as well as the native Zapotec and Mixtec cultures and archeological sites. Oaxaca tourist activity peaks in three seasons: Holy Week, summer (especially during Guelaguetza), and New Year. Many of the tourists who come during Holy Week and for New ...
Our most popular destinations
The indomitable spirit of our state is an incomparable part of its magic towns and the tourist wonders that make them unique, as well as the hospitality of their inhabitants and the quality of their services, await your visit to help conserve, share the magic and light of Oaxaca. Mitla. Magic Town.
Oaxaca 's Tourist Guide
Oaxaca in the Heart of Mexico / Oaxaca en el Corazón de México Award-winning travel Guide for the State and City of Oaxaca: 1000+ photographs and 400+ pages of text describing all Natural and Cultural Attractions of Oaxaca, including Huatulco, Puerto Escondido, the Guelaguetza, Mitla, Monte Albán, and many more.
What is Oaxacan mole and where to eat it
Mexico's culinary heartland, Oaxaca is famed for its array of complex, spiced sauces, known as moles. So much more than side dishes, they're very often the main event. To make mole, Oaxacans use ...
15 Must-Visit Destinations in the Land of the Sun
Story by Kitty Holland. • 18m. 1 / 18. Mexico Uncovered - 15 Must-Visit Destinations in the Land of the Sun ©Provided by Passing Thru Travel. Mexico is a country of vast beauty and complexity ...

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Table of Contents

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Oaxaca

1. Wander the historic downtown

2. Explore Mercado 20 de Noviembre

3. See Monte Albán

4. Explore Mitla

5. Try a street-stall hamberguesa

2. Take a free walking tour

3. See the Templo de Santo Domingo

4. Wander the Botanical Garden

5. Visit Puerto Escondido

6. Take a food tour

7. Wander the Sunday market

8. Try a cooking class

9. Go hiking in Sierra Norte

10. Experience a Temazcal

11. Celebrate Day of the Dead

Oaxaca Travel Costs

Backpacking Oaxaca Suggested Budgets

Oaxaca Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Where to Stay in Oaxaca

How to Get Around Oaxaca