best places to visit in oaxaca city

Your Friend the Nomad

Mexico , Favorites , Oaxaca · March 26, 2024

The Perfect Oaxaca City Itinerary: 3-10 Days

Searching for the perfect Oaxaca itinerary? Look no further!

I was lucky enough to spend over a month in Oaxaca while I was living in Mexico. I instantly fell in love with the city’s colorful buildings, frequent cheerful parades, delicious food, and the breathtaking Oaxacan countryside.

I am overjoyed to share the magic of Oaxaca with you in this carefully curated Oaxaca City itinerary. It includes all the best things to do in Oaxaca de Juárez, such as a mole tastings and cooking classes, wandering through artsy historical neighborhoods, an unmissable walking tour, and more.

It also includes my favorite day trips, including visits to a mezcal distillery, hiking to hidden waterfalls that few Oaxaca tourists ever see, bathing in a natural infinity pool at Hierve El Agua, and visits Oaxaca’s stunning Zapotec ruins.

Whether you have one day in Oaxaca, or are spending several weeks in this gorgeous colonial city, this Oaxaca itinerary can be adapted for your trip, based on your unique interests.

Women in field of agaves near Oaxaca City

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Oaxaca de Juárez Itinerary

Oaxaca itinerary overview:.

I created this Oaxaca itinerary for a one week vacation, but I also adapted it for shorter and longer trips. Read the one week itinerary and see my adapted itinerary below!

Day 1-2 : Get to know Oaxaca de Juárez on a walking tour, taste all seven flavors of mole, swim in a natural infinity pool beside petrified waterfalls, visit ancient Zapotec ruins and/or taste local mezcals in the Oaxacan countryside

Days 3-4 : Roam through Oaxaca’s colorful Jalatlaco neighborhood, taste pulque, people watch at Oaxaca’s main square, and swim beneath waterfalls on my favorite Oaxaca day trip

Days 5-7 : Join a traditional Oaxacan cooking class, visit the iconic Monte Alban archeological site, and wander through a botanical garden hidden in Oaxaca’s Centro Historico neighborhood

Streets of Oaxaca City with mountains in the background (Oaxaca City itinerary)

Oaxaca 1 Week Itinerary

Day 1: oaxaca’s centro historico and the seven flavors of mole.

Start off your first day in Oaxaca by walking around the historical center (Centro Historico) on a free walking tour. You’ll learn about the city’s history and unique culture from an engaging local guide, and they’ll show you plenty of hidden gems along the way.

The free walking tour is the perfect introduction to Oaxaca and will help you figure out which parts of the city you want to explore more on your own.

I’ve been on free walking tours all around the world—sometimes they’re hit or miss, but the Oaxaca free walking tour was excellent!

The English-speaking tours start at Teatro Macedonio Alcala at 10am, 11am, 1pm, 4pm, and 5pm Monday through Saturday, and at 10am and 4pm on Sunday. Check the official tour website here for more info . Expect the tour to last 2-3 hours and be prepared with some pesos so you can tip your guide at the end (it will be worth it!)

Spend the rest of your day exploring the colorful streets of Oaxaca’s historical center. You can check out local artisan shops, snap tons of photos, wander through art galleries, and taste plenty of street food, but make sure you leave room for seven moles!

Three small bowls of mole at Hierba Dulce, a must add to any Oaxaca City itinerary

First three moles during a tasting of Oaxaca’s seven moles at Hierba Dulce

For dinner, try Oaxaca’s famous seven flavors of mole! Mole (pronounced ‘moe-lay’) comes from the indigenous Nahuatl word for sauce. Mole is typically thought of as a savory-sweet sauce made with chocolate and chiles, but there are a diversity of different moles in Mexico.

Most of Oaxaca’s delicious moles are made with dozens of ingredients, and take hours—if not days—to prepare.

There are several places where you can try Oaxaca’s seven moles in the city. I tasted the seven moles at Hierba Dulce, a restaurant that focuses on traditional food from Oaxaca’s many indigenous villages.

Hierba Dulce’s menu is fully plant-based, and very traditional—the tour guide on my free walking tour told me it is the place he goes to get food that reminds him the food his mother made in the village where he grew up.

So, if you’re up for a culinary adventure, head straight to Hierba Dulce on your first night in Oaxaca. Enjoy your mole tasting in their gorgeous courtyard, and maybe order a mezcal margarita and a few other things on their menu!

Natural pool at Hierve el Agua, a stop on this Oaxaca City itinerary

Day 2: Day Trip to Hierve el Agua, Mezcal Distilleries, and More

The main goal of day two is to experience Hierve el Agua (‘Boil the Water’ in English), a breathtaking site an hour and a half from Oaxaca City.

With panoramic views of lush farmland, Hierve el Agua is home to petrified waterfalls (yep, you read that right!) and natural infinity pools. You can enjoy a short hike to some of the ancient waterfalls, and soak in the mineral rich pools.

If you only end up taking one day trip from Oaxaca, this is the day trip I’d recommend as Hierve el Agua is probably one of the most unique places you’ll ever see!

The best way to experience Hierve el Agua is on a guided tour, and most Hierve el Agua tours from Oaxaca City include several other stops. Some common stops include a mezcal distillery, an artisan workshop, the ruins of Mitla, the bustling Mercado Tlacolula, and the charming town of Teotitlan del Valle.

I recommend comparing Hierve el Agua tours and booking one that has the stops that interest you most.

Since mezcal, a smoky-flavored spirit made from local agaves, is from this part of Oaxaca, many folks choose a Hierve el Agua tour that includes a visit to a mezcal distillery with a tasting . Booking a tour rather than driving yourself makes sense so you can enjoy mezcal without worrying about driving.

I also really enjoyed visiting Mitla , a lesser known Zapotec archeological site not too far from Hierve el Agua. It is a small site, but we almost had the place to ourselves and the ruins were absolutely breathtaking (see a photo below!)

Woman walking down the steps of an ancient Zapotec building at Mitla on a one week Oaxaca City itinerary

The unique ruins of Mitla

If you’re planning this day trip on a Sunday, consider a tour that includes a stop at Mercado Tlacolula , a vibrant market on the way to Hierve el Agua that serves some local specialities on Sundays only. (Since I’m vegan and can’t eat most of the food at the market, I skipped this but I’ve heard from other travelers that this market was a huge highlight of their Oaxaca travels.)

Finally, another notable stop on the way to Hierve el Agua is the artisan textile workshops of Teotitlan del Valle . Here you’ll learn from local families about traditional dying and weaving, and have the chance to buy some of their products. Teotitlan del Valle is also a cool place to see — I loved the village’s unique 17th church, which is built in a similar style to the church in Jalatlaco, Oaxaca .

Highly-rated guided tours to Hierve el Agua and some of the other stops I mentioned above:

★ Private Tour to Hierve el Agua with Mezcal Tasting & Artisan Textile Workshop ★ Custom Private Tour to Hierve el Agua, Mitla, Mitla caves, Mercado Tlacolula, and more (PACKED day trip, a great option if you only have a few days in Oaxaca) ★ Group Tour With Only Two Stops: Hierve el Agua & Mezcal Distillery ★ Group Tour to Hierve el Agua, Mitla, Mezcal Distillery, and El Tule (budget-friendly) ★ Small Group Tour to Hierve el Agua, Teotitlan del Valle, El Tule, and Yagul

A colorful street in Jalatlaco, a must-visit neighborhood for your Oaxaca itinerary

Colorful Jalatlaco, a must-visit neighborhood of Oaxaca

Day 3: Brunch in Jalatlaco, Oaxaca’s Zócalo, and Rooftop Pulque

Spend day three of this one week Oaxaca itinerary experiencing more of the city.

Start off the day with a delicious breakfast or brunch in Jalatlaco, a historical neighborhood that many tourists miss. This colorful part of Oaxaca is known for its murals, cute cafes, small art galleries, and the stunning Templo de San Matías church.

I outline several places to eat in the neighborhood in my full guide to Jalatlaco , but my favorite spot is Santa Hierba. The cafe’s boho luxe rooftop reminds me a bit of coffeeshops in Tulum , and their main floor seating area also has a lovely atmosphere, with plenty of color and Oaxaca charm.

But the best part of dining at Santa Hierba is absolutely the food. Their menu includes delicious options for everyone (vegan, gluten-free, and regular food). I can only speak to their vegan menu, which includes hamburgesa doble queso, an indulgent lentil-based burger with melty vegan cheese and a creamy BBQ sauce served with crispy potatoes. My husband and I ordered this meal several times during our month in Oaxaca and never got tired of it!

Santa Hierba also has amazing desserts, and drinks, too! You can order anything from a regular latte to fresh pressed juice and local kombucha! Whether you’re vegan or not, I’m sure you’ll enjoy this brunch spot.

Related: 27 Oaxaca Vegan Restaurants and Vegan-Friendly Spots

Vegan burger and potatoes at an Oaxaca brunch spot

My favorite food at Santa Hierba in Jalatlaco, Oaxaca

After a satisfying meal, make sure you dedicate a little bit of time to explore the neighborhood (if you haven’t already). It is a lovely area to take some photos and shop for locally made gifts and art. There is also a fully vegan cat cafe garden on the edge of the neighborhood, called La Selva De Los Gatos. This garden cafe is a great place to escape the heat for a little bit and pet some sweet rescued cats. Plus, the cafe’s drinks and food are much better than you’d expect!

Once you’ve seen all you need to see in Jalatlaco, perhaps head back to your hotel to refresh, or go straight into Centro Historico for some people watching at the Zócalo.

The Zócalo is Oaxaca’s main square and it is teeming with activity at nearly all hours of the day. Surprisingly, I was in Oaxaca for a few weeks before I ever spent time in the Zocalo, partly because there is already so much to do elsewhere in the city! Make sure you don’t miss the Zocalo, though, it is a great place for people watching, and one of the best places to find local street vendors.

If you’re looking for another area to explore in Centro Historico, check out Calle Macedonio Alcalá, a wide pedestrian street, the Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzmán , and the streets nearby. Basílica de Nuestra Señora de la Soledad is another gorgeous church with a stunning view of the hillside villages around the city.

Grab dinner wherever you please — street food will do! After you’ve eaten, head to La Mezcalerita , a rustic rooftop bar serving both mezcal and pulque.

If you’ve read some of my other travel guides, like my article on the Hidden Gems of Mexico City , or my San Cristóbal de las Casas itinerary , you know that pulque is a one-of-a-kind alcoholic beverage that once was the drink of Mexico before Coca-Cola took over.

Pulque is made by fermenting sap from the Maguey plant and is sort of like a thicker form of kombucha with a higher alcohol content. This interesting pre-hispanic drink can be difficult to find nowadays, so if you have the chance to try it in Mexico, definitely do it! Just be warned—you’ll probably love or hate it.

La Mezcalerita in Oaxaca City has some of the best pulque I’ve tried in Mexico. I really enjoyed trying their different flavors as they mix the pulque with various types of fresh fruit juice, which makes the flavor of the pulque a little less intense.

Even if you’re not interested in trying pulque, I still recommend spending an evening at La Mezcalerita since they have plenty of other drinks to choose from—cocktails, beer, mezcal, and more—and its a more affordable bar with a local feel.

Waterfalls in rural Oaxaca, part of this Oaxaca itinerary

Day 4: Day Trip to Hidden Waterfalls or the Sierra Norte Mountains

Immerse in Oaxaca’s gorgeous nature on day four of this Oaxaca itinerary!

Choose between hiking to secluded waterfalls (and swimming!) in a small village just over two hours away from Oaxaca City, hiking through the pine and oak forests of the Sierra Norte mountains.

Whichever day trip you choose, you’ll be in for a treat, and you’ll get to experience a side of Oaxaca that few visitors ever see.

Although Santiago Apoala is only a few hours from Oaxaca City, it is still a bit of a hidden gem that rarely sees non-Mexican tourists. I wrote a full guide to Santiago Apaola if you’re interested in this humble village and the turquoise blue swimming holes, striking valleys, and waterfalls that surround it.

You can visit Santiago Apoala with your own rental car, but I do recommend going on this guided day trip as you’re required to bring a local guide on most hikes, anyhow.

This Sierra Norte hiking day trip is another lovely way to spend the day. You’ll explore Oaxaca’s vibrant landscapes and forests from over 10,000 feet (3200 meters) above sea level.

Your guide will identify flora, fauna, and mushrooms along the way, and you’ll get to enjoy local food in some nearby villages.

Keep in mind that you need to be comfortable hiking several miles to enjoy either of these hiking day trips. You will also want to account for the elevation if you visit Sierra Norte. But if you’re up for the adventure, this day in Oaxaca might end up being your favorite!

Vintage VW bug and colorful buildings in Oaxaca de Juarez

Day 5: Oaxacan Cooking Class & Shopping for (Real) Artisan-Made Goods

Many people visit the city of Oaxaca just for the food, and for good reason!

Oaxaca undoubtedly has the best food I’ve had in all of Mexico, yep, better than the food in Mexico City .

What better way to experience the rich cuisine of Oaxaca than to take cooking class?

There are a lot of cooking classes to choose from, if you search for Oaxaca cooking classes on Viator (where I typically book tours, day trips, and classes while traveling), over 40 classes come up!

I’m sure there are tons of excellent classes, but the one I recommend is this traditional cooking class with Minerva Lopez , an award-winning local chef who specializes in the traditional pre-hispanic cuisine of Oaxaca.

This class has received Viator’s badge of excellence and 90+ 5 star reviews from participants. Her classes are intimate and include a visit to a local market where you’ll buy organic ingredients before taking them back to the kitchen to prepare an unforgettable meal.

Minerva’s classes are adaptable, so wether you’re a meat eater or vegan like me, you can book with her. Her sample menu includes a traditional chocolate drink, homemade tortillas, black mole or yellow mole, and a traditional dessert.

This highly-rated cooking class often sells out, so be sure to reserve your spot in advance !

After your morning cooking class, head back out into the colorful streets of Oaxaca with a full belly!

As your trip is soon coming to and end, this is a great time to do some shopping! Whether you’re looking for some locally made decor for your home, or souvenirs for friends and family, you’ll find a diversity of shops in Oaxaca City.

I recommend not buying something at the first place you go. Visit a handful of shops in different parts of town before deciding what to buy. And keep in mind that sadly most of the items sold on the streets (and in many stores) are not locally made, they’re shipped in from Taiwan and China.

It can be difficult to tell which items are actually made by local artisans, but after visiting a few stores, if you see the same, cheaply made items, you’ll get an idea.

Some shops I enjoyed included: Kun near Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzmán, the shop outside of La Selva De Los Gatos , and Once In Oaxaca in Jalatlaco.

If you’re visiting Oaxaca during a holiday, like Semana Santa (Holy Week) or Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead), there will be lots of outdoor markets, too!

Couple walking through the streets of Oaxaca City

Day 6: Monte Albán Archaeological Site and Jardín Etnobotánico de Oaxaca

On day six visit a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Monte Albán. This striking ancient city was inhabited by several people groups—the Olmecs, Zapotecs, and Mixtecs.

Just thirty minutes outside of the city, the Monte Alban archaeological site is one day trip you can’t miss in Oaxaca! I recommend this half day Monte Alban tour which includes roundtrip transport in an air conditioned vehicle and a local guide who will tell you all about the site’s long history.

Alternatively, you can drive or take a taxi to Monte Alban but you’ll miss the historical insights from a tour guide. If you do choose to go there without a tour, be sure to get an early start and arrive at opening time (8am) to avoid the crowds and heat.

In the afternoon or early evening back in Oaxaca, catch the English tour of Jardín Etnobotánico de Oaxaca, a gorgeous botanical garden in the center of town.

I recommend stopping by the garden earlier in the week to check their tour times as you can only view the garden on a tour, and they only happen a few times a day! If your Monte Alban and garden tour times conflict, swap the garden for your last day in Oaxaca.

Day 7: Bike Ride to El Tule and Wandering the City

On your last day in beautiful Oaxaca de Juarez, I invite to bike to the widest tree in the world — it is right on the edge of Oaxaca in a charming little town.

This record-breaking tree is called El Tule and it is a Montezuma cypress tree that is over 2000 years old.

There is a trusty bike route you can follow on AllTrails from the center of Oaxaca City to the tree. The route is fairly flat, with just over 450 elevation gain over 13 miles (roundtrip). You can easily rent a bike in Oaxaca City and the local bike shops will be able to advise on the bike route since its the most popular place to take a bike in Oaxaca!

If you don’t want to bike this trail alone, you can join a group bike tour like this one , which also includes some additional stops. Alternatively, you can drive to El Tule or take a taxi as well.

No matter how you get there, make sure to take some time to wander through Santa María El Tule, the cute little town where the ancient tree is located. The tree is right by a local market and a church, and my husband and I found a nearby vegan restaurant that we loved.

Woman standing in front of El Tule, a stop on this Oaxaca Itinerary

Your El Tule adventure will take up at least half the day if you explore via bicycle. But when you make it back to Oaxaca City, its time to soak up the last bit of daylight in this magical city before heading home.

Wander down Calle Macedonio Alcalá one more time, eat some more mole, sip a mezcal margarita, and/or visit all your favorite spots.

If you’re looking for a bar to visit on your last night in Oaxaca City, I recommend checking out El Espacio , a tiny bar behind Santo Domingo Church that specializes in mezcal and unique cocktails. The prices are a little higher here compared to more local spots, but the drinks are excellent and the owner is lovely. My tip is to ask the bartender to surprise you with a drink!

Where to Stay in Oaxaca City

🌺 Hotel Tabáa Oaxaca : Stay in a gorgeous, charming room at this high end boutique hotel in Jalatlaco.

🧖🏽‍♀️ Hotel Casa Santo Origen : Book a room with a private infinity pool and hot tub at Oaxaca City’s most luxurious boutique hotel.

🌿 Pug Seal : Stay in a one-of-a-kind suite in Oaxaca’s historical center in this trendy boutique hotel.

Woman sitting in front of a church in Oaxaca

How to spend 3 days in Oaxaca City

If you only have three days in Oaxaca City, you’re still in for a treat!

Spend your first day exploring Oaxaca City’s historical center and Jalatlaco neighborhood . Joining the free walking tour is a lovely way to get acquainted with the city, but if you choose not to, here are some spots I recommend visiting:

★ Calle Macedonio Alcalá, a pedestrian-only street always filled with activity ★ The Zócalo , Oaxaca’s bustling main square ★ Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzmán , a striking baroque church, and the nearby Jardín Etnobotánico de Oaxaca (botanical garden) ★ Basílica de Nuestra Señora de la Soledad , another church with a view of the surrounding hills ★ Templo de San Matías, a unique church in Jalatlaco ★ La Mezcalerita , where you can try pulque and mezcal

On day two, I highly recommend booking this activity-filled day trip which hits almost all the main sites around Oaxaca, like Hierve el Agua and Monte Alban. You’ll also see the Mitla ruins and Mitla caves, artisan workshops at several small villages like San Bartolo Coyotepec and Santo Tomás Jalieza, and more. It is a private tour with your own private driver/guide and a vehicle with AC. It is the perfect way to see a lot of Oaxaca in one day, but keep in mind that it will be a packed, rushed day!

For your last day in Oaxaca City, start off with this incredible cooking class and then spend your afternoon soaking in the magic of Oaxaca City. If you’re up for more adventures, you could take a taxi to El Tule to see the world’s widest tree! Whatever you do, make sure you don’t miss tasting the seven flavors of mole at Hierba Dulce or another Oaxaca restaurant.

Note : My favorite day trip from Oaxaca City was definitely Santiago Apoala , where you can hike and swim beneath waterfalls. I don’t think this day trip is for everyone and it is a bit of a drive, but if you love nature, swimming, and hiking like me, you might want to swap this Santiago Apoala day trip for day three, or maybe day one of your 3 day Oaxaca itinerary.

How to spend 5 days in Oaxaca City

With five days in Oaxaca, I recommend following my three day Oaxaca itinerary (above) for the first three days, with one exception. You may want to swap the activity-filled day trip for another Hierve el Agua tour that isn’t as busy.

On day four, take another day trip, depending on your interests and which day trip you chose for day two. If you aren’t seeing Monte Alban on the activity-filled day trip , this is your chance to go on a half day tour to this incredible ancient site. However, my suggestion is to take a day trip to Santiago Apoala , if you enjoy hiking and swimming!

On your last day in Oaxaca City, follow my day 7 itinerary from the main itinerary above, which includes a fun bike ride (or drive) to El Tule, the world’s widest tree!

10 day Oaxaca Itinerary

If you’re blessed with ten whole days in Oaxaca City, follow my 7 day itinerary above.

Then on day 8, take another hiking day trip, whichever one you missed on day four. That means you’ll head to the gorgeous Sierra Norte mountains or the waterfalls of Santiago Apoala .

On day 9, its time for some relaxation. Enjoy your hotel’s pool, or prebook a massage with one of Oaxaca’s amazing masseuses. When we were living in Oaxaca, my husband and I got couples massages twice, both times at this spa .

By day 10 in Oaxaca, you’ll have a sense of which places you want to visit again before you go—a market you always walked past, a church you never went inside, an art gallery that caught your eye. I’ll leave this last day to you since the first eight were so packed with activity!

Puerto Escondido and Oaxaca Itinerary

See more of Oaxaca state by adding the vibrant surf town of Puerto Escondido to your Oaxaca itinerary! The combination of culture and nature adventures in and around Oaxaca City with the peace of the ocean makes the perfect vacation.

Some of my favorite things to do in Puerto Escondido include dolphin watching , relaxing at Playa Carrizalillo (my favorite beach in Mexico), and walking down the miles-long Zicatela beach. You can reach Puerto Escondido from Oaxaca on the brand new highway between the two, or on a short flight.

Check out my Puerto Escondido Itinerary to plan your Oaxaca and Puerto Escondido vacation.

Couple on a boat in the floating gardens of Mexico City

Mexico City and Oaxaca Itinerary

Mexico City is another great addition to a Mexico vacation. In fact, with so many direct flights to Mexico City, you may end up with a layover in Mexico City on your way to Oaxaca.

You can extend that CDMX layover for a few days—or more—and explore Mexico’s capital city. Some of the best spots in Mexico City include the tree-lined streets of Roma Norte , the floating gardens of Xochilmilco , the Anthropology Museum and Castle at Chapultepec Park, the charming colorful neighborhood of Coyoacan (where Frida Kahlo lived!), and Mexico City’s many rooftop bars .

Read my four day Mexico City itinerary to plan the perfect Mexico City and Oaxaca trip!

Related: What to Wear in Mexico City

Couple on a boat in Chiapas at Sumidero Canyon

Chiapas and Oaxaca Itinerary

One more Mexico destination to consider when visiting Oaxaca: San Cristobal de las Casas in the neighboring state of Chiapas.

Since Chiapas and the state of Oaxaca border each other, most people think that it is easy to visit both Oaxaca City and San Cristobal de las Casas in one trip. The truth is, the drive between the two cities takes over nine hours.

With that in mind, the best way to travel between Oaxaca and San Cristobal de las Casas is by flight (to the Tuxtla airport near San Cris). However, keep in mind that you’ll have a layover in Mexico City as there aren’t direct flights.

San Cristobal de las Casas is similar to Oaxaca City in some ways—both are colonial cities with colorful streets, both are clearly influenced by a strong indigenous culture, and both are surrounded by beautiful hills and countryside.

But these two cities also have many differences, for instance, it is important to know that it gets quite cold in San Cristobal due to the elevation, and sadly, poverty is even more pressing in the state of Chiapas.

To plan a trip to both Chiapas and Oaxaca, be sure to reference my San Cristobal de las Casa itinerary and my guide to the breathtaking Sumidero Canyon .

Oaxaca Itinerary FAQs

How much time do you need in oaxaca city.

I recommend spending at least five days in Oaxaca City to fully experience the city’s rich culture and delicious food, with time to visit nearby ancient ruins and nature areas. However, the ideal amount of time to spend in Oaxaca is a week.

When is the best time of year to visit Oaxaca City?

Oaxaca City is delightful year round, but some of the best times to visit include the end of October for Day of the Dead, and the wintertime, when the heat is less intense. Another good time to visit Oaxaca is mid-July during Guelaguetza, an enchanting folk festival that brings communities from around Oaxaca state for celebrations

Some travel writers will advise you against visiting during Semana Santa (Holy Week). This is understandable as it can be difficult to get around when many of the streets are closed off unexpectedly for parades, but I was in Oaxaca City for Holy Week last year and thought it was a great time to experience another side of Oaxacan culture and art.

Essential Mexico Travel Resources

Have a Mexico trip coming up soon? There are a lot of travel companies out there, but some are better than others. After traveling to dozens of countries and living abroad on several continents, here are some of my favorite websites and resources for planning unforgettable trips.

🗺️ Hotels + Vacation Rentals : I always use this site for hotels. They have an easy-to-use platform and great rewards. When I’m looking for a vacation rental, I compare Vrbo and Airbnb.

💪 Travel Insurance : Travel insurance is essential for any trip! I use SafetyWing , which has affordable rates and coverage for many adventure sports.

🚠 Tours + Activities : Viator (owned by Trip Advisor) is the best site for comparing and booking experiences with local tour operators.

🚗 Car Rentals : Use DiscoverCars , a highly-rated platform for comparing and booking rental cars around the world.

📱 Easy phone plans abroad : Use this company to get an eSIM for phone coverage while traveling—without getting a SIM card or canceling your existing plan (unless you want to!)

🎒 Essentials always in my bag : Check out my ‘ in my bag ‘ page for the items I always have in my carry-on.

About Annie

Annie is the founder of Your Friend the Nomad and an expert in the digital nomad lifestyle and vegan travel. She's lived abroad in Mexico, Italy, and Palestine, and traveled extensively in Latin America, Europe, and Asia.

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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.

20 Top Things to Do in Oaxaca, Including Mexican Hot Chocolate Tastings and Mural Walks

Culinary and cultural adventure await in this increasingly popular city in Mexico.

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Oaxaca is not just having a moment — it is here to stay. One of Mexico's most enchanting cities , Oaxaca seems to truly have it all, from ancient ruins, excellent cuisine , and fabulous art to indigenous culture, architecture, and dance. I learned this first-hand back in 2017; I was on a backpacking trip that was supposed to cover all of Mexico, but two months in, I got to Oaxaca and couldn't get myself to leave. I didn't finish the trip itinerary that year, and I have zero regrets.

Of course, I am not alone in my passion for Oaxaca.

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"It's one of my favorite destinations in Mexico for its incredible combination of precolombian, colonial, and contemporary influences," says Zach Rabinor, CEO of Journey Mexico, a curator of highly personalized and expert itineraries all around Mexico. "Let us not forget that Oaxaca is one of Mexico’s biggest states and, like the cultural diversity, its geography is vast, ranging from the high alpine mountains of Sierra Norte and Mixteca to steamy lowland jungles and coastal plains. Throw in some world-class surfing, kite boarding, mountain biking, and hiking, and you’ve truly got something for everyone. While not such a well-guarded secret anymore, you’d be surprised at how few North Americans have actually visited Oaxaca."

Ready to see why we're so hooked this city? Here are 20 of the best things to do in Oaxaca, Mexico.

Related: This All-female Travel Company is Headed to Oaxaca — With Trips Featuring Incredible Women-owned Businesses

Discover the historic core and Zocalo.

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The entire city of Oaxaca is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it makes sense to start your explorations at the historic core. For most cities in Mexico, the zocalo (which translates to public square or market) is at the heart of the its historic core, where you're sure to learn about the city's history, admire some of its oldest architecture, and get some good people-watching in. Oaxaca is no exception. Start in the main square and wander the famous landmarks that are nearby.

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, particularly for its Pasillo de Humo, which directly translates to "hall of smoke." The name refers to a seemingly endless aisle of carne asada within the market. It's an overwhelming experience for all the senses, and a rite of passage for any carnivore.

Make your way through other markets, too.

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Oaxaca has so many different markets to explore, and each one offers a unique experience. Mercado 20 Noviembre is one of the main markets for prepared food and ingredients, like spices, herbs, produce, and meat. But Central de Abastos is the largest market in Oaxaca — if you want it, chances are you'll find it here. Feeling peckish? Find the Doña Vale stall and try her memelas, or fried masa cakes, which are now legendary, thanks to Netflix show "Street Food." At Benito Juarez Market, shop for souvenirs and more Oaxacan food. If local art is what you seek, head to ARIPO Oaxaca Artisan Market, which abounds with jewelry, crafts, textiles, and other artisan products made around Oaxaca.

Eat your way across the city.

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While we're on the subject of food, we'd be remiss not to mention Oaxaca's impressive cuisine. Mexican food is beloved around the world, but there is something about Oaxacan food that makes it extra special. Try items indigenous to Oaxaca like crispy tlayudas , decadent enmoladas , crunchy, salty chapulines , and, of course, the seven different kinds of mole perfected in Oaxacan kitchens. You can find all of these dishes at the humblest of street carts, or at fine-dining restaurants around the city, where you can pair a dish with a sexy Mezcal cocktail. If you want insider secrets, a food tour with Oaxacking will blow your mind (and your taste buds). Restaurants not to miss are Criollo , El Tendajon , and Origen .

Take a swim in a frozen waterfall at Hierve El Agua.

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One of Oaxaca’s most mesmerizing natural features is Hierve El Agua . This impressive landmark looks like a gushing waterfall that frozen mid-spill over the edge of a cliff. Of course, it's not actually frozen, but an illusion, thanks to calcified mineral deposits. It's surreal sight and one of the most popular attractions in Oaxaca. At the top of the falls are natural mineral infinity pools, too, and you can take a dip in them while enjoying mountain and forest views. Make sure your phone is fully charged — you won't want to miss these photo ops.

Walk like a Zapotec at Monte Alban.

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Evidence of Mexico's indigenous past can be found in all regions across Mexico, but Oaxaca has some of the highest concentrations of what is left of the Zapotec and Mixtec empires. The most famous archaeological site in Oaxaca is Monte Alban. The UNESCO World Heritage Site was once the capital of the Zapotec civilization, and today it's an impressive, preserved collection of palaces, tombs, a ball court, and plazas — all on a hilltop perch with 360-degree views of the valley, mountains, and Oaxaca City.

"Monte Alban, along with other archaeological sites in the region, are a combination of Zapotec and Mixtec, reflecting the various battles and interchanging rule of these warring communities. Mexico's pre-Spanish history is much more than simply the story of the Aztec and Mayas," Rabinor said. What's more, these cultures are alive and well and have influenced modern day cuisine, music, art, religion, rituals, and festivals.

Take a spiritual steam.

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Self-care is an integral part of any vacation these days, so why not a little self-care that comes with centuries of history? Temazcal is an ancient ritual that dates back hundreds of years. It comes from a Nahuatl word that means "house of heat," and many of Mexico's indigenous people practiced temazcal sweat lodge ceremonies for healing. The practice is still used today, though it can be a lot more commercialized, particularly in more touristy areas. For something a bit more true to its roots, the RenaSiendo Temazcal Ceremony is a three-hour experience, complete with the use of onsite pools.

Count gold at Templo de Santo Domingo.

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At the heart of Oaxaca is the Templo de Santo Domingo, a spectacular Baroque Catholic church. Standing at attention in front of a main square and surrounded by agave plants, this beautiful work of architecture is one of the highlights of Oaxaca. Not to be missed is its interior, which is practically bathed in gold. Entrance to the church is free.

Don marigolds at Day of the Dead.

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A Day of the Dead festival should be on every Mexico itinerary, and Oaxaca's is one of the best and most popular in the country. Dia de los Muertos is one of Mexico's most important celebrations, where departed souls are honored and celebrated with candles, parades, offerings, art, color, and music. The festival takes place every year from October 31 to November 2. If you do aim to visit Oaxaca for the Day of the Dead, be sure to book your accommodations well in advance, as this is one of the busiest times to visit the city.

Sip mezcal in its birthplace.

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Born from the agave fields all across the state of Oaxaca, this distant cousin to tequila is known for its smoky taste, though mezcal flavors do range greatly. It's one of the most celebrated beverages throughout the state, and dozens of mezcal bars in Oaxaca are waiting with open bottles to gift you that perfect pour. One of the best is La Mezcalerita Oaxaca , with three intimate rooms and a sprawling rooftop patio.

Explore Mitla.

If you'd like to see more ruins than Monte Alban, Mitla is a must. This was the religious center for the Zapotecs, and today's visitors usually go here to see the Column of Life, which is located in one of the tombs. Legend has it that if you wrap your arms around the column, the distance between your hands reveals how much time you have left in life. Believe what you will, Mitla is still a fascinating piece of Oaxaca history.

Get lost among the city's murals.

Street art is a vital part of Mexican culture no matter where you are in the country, Oaxaca's streets included. Public walls all over the city are adorned with brilliant works of street art. A large part of the work is due to a collective known as Lapiztola, a group that uses art and creativity to spread messages of change to the public.

Soak up all the art and culture.

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Oaxaca has plenty of indoor art, too. The city is peppered with museums and galleries. The Museo Textil de Oaxaca , for example, highlights traditional Oaxacan textiles and handicrafts, while the Museo de las Culturas features 14 rooms that tell the story of Oaxaca's history. And don't skip the Museum of Contemporary Art , or Jacobo y Maria Angeles Workshop , a fascinating, under-the-radar spot that focuses on carved copal wood figures, an ancestral practice native to the Oaxaca region.

Visit the world’s widest tree.

Not far from Oaxaca City is the stunning Templo Santa Maria de la Asuncion in the small town of Santa Maria del Tule. In addition to being a beautiful and peaceful place to visit, the grounds of the church are home to El Tule, a Montezuma Cypress Tree known as the tree of enlightenment — it's trunk measures 46 feet in circumference.

Sip some serious hot chocolate.

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Chocolate has always been an important part of Mexican kitchens, and Oaxaca is one of Mexico's top-producing regions for cacao beans, so you can expect the hot chocolate here to be a cut above the rest. Oaxacan hot chocolate is made with water, not milk, and is spun with a whisk to give it a froth on top. Cafe Brujula is a personal favorite — visit the one on C. Macedonio Alcala, and order banana bread to go with it.

Hop the bus to San Jose del Pacifico.

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About three hours south of Oaxaca and nestled in the Sierra Madre mountains is the tiny village of San Jose del Pacifico. A completely different vibe from Oaxaca City, this mountain town is known for its thick pine forests, hippie community and — if I'm being honest — its magic mushrooms. The latter is probably San Jose del Pacifico's biggest draw , and Shamans can guide visitors who are interested in this experience. But you'll find much more to do in San Jose, too, from hiking to temazcal.

Road trip to the coast.

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Continue south from San Jose del Pacifico (another five hours or so) and you will be at the doorstep of some of the best surfing in Mexico. The beach towns along Oaxaca’s coast are known for surfing, funky cafes, fresh fruit, and super laid-back vibes. Each beach town is different, but the major ones to hit are Huatulco, Puerto Escondido (home to the Mexi Pipeline), Zipolite, Puerto Angel, and Mazunte. If you want to get to know Oaxaca’s coastline on a deeper level, local tour operator The Puerto Experience is your lifeline.

Stay with Oaxaca’s indigenous communities.

While sites like Monte Alban and Mitla tell the stories of the past, the communities responsible for these great wonders are alive and well. Oaxaca is home to a group called Pueblo Mancomunados, which are eight remote and protected villages inhabited by Zapotec people. Visitors can connect with these communities through ecotourism projects, which help develop schools, roads, and healthcare for the communities in the region. Local guides take travelers on hikes, horseback rides, wildlife viewing excursions, and temazcal experiences. You might also eat home-cooked meals and sleep in simple adobe huts, if you choose. It's an experience that will stay with you for a lifetime, and one of the best ways to really connect with Mexico's roots.

Celebrate Guelaguetza.

Each July, Oaxaca's streets explode with the Guelaguetza Festival, one of the largest folk festivals in North America. The event celebrates all regions of Oaxaca and honors the region's diverse food, art, and cultures. The event takes place over two Mondays in July.

Take a break at the botanical gardens.

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Just steps from Templo de Santo Domingo is Oaxaca's Botanical Gardens . This quiet and beautifully landscaped place is an ideal spot in which to take a break from the heat of the day and wander amongst plants native to Oaxaca. Tours are available, or you can visit on your own.

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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

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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

👉 Book one of the top-rated FOOD tours in Oaxaca on VIATOR .

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

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

(644 reviews)

from $ 45.00

Immersion Tour and Oaxaca Markets, All gastronomy included

(169 reviews)

from $ 60.30

Only Hierve el Agua and Mezcal Distillery Tour

(276 reviews)

from $ 50.00

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.

Explore More of Oaxaca

Best Hotels

When To Visit

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Oaxaca City

A cultural colossus fit to rival anywhere in Latin America for history, gastronomy and colorful manifestations of indigenous culture, Oaxaca is a complex but intensely attractive city whose majestic churches and refined plazas have deservedly earned it a Unesco World Heritage badge. Lovers of culture come here to indulge in the Mexico of Zapotec and colonial legend. Flowing through handsome yet tranquil streets, life pulsates with an unadulterated regional flavor. See it in the color palate of historic boutique hotels, a meet-the-producer artisan store or an intentionally grungy mezcalería (plying locally manufactured alcoholic beverages). But what makes Oaxaca especially interesting are its undercurrents. While largely safe and attractive by Mexican standards, snippets of political protest in recent years have lent the city a grittier edge. It bubbles up in satirical street art, bohemian bars and been-around-forever street markets. Trust us: there’s far more to this city than just pretty churches.

Best Time to Visit

Best things to do, leave the planning to a local expert.

Experience the real Oaxaca City. Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca

Got two hours? You'll need it for the Museum of Oaxacan Cultures, housed in the beautiful monastery buildings adjoining the Templo de Santo Domingo. This…

A woman walking toward the Church of Santo Domingo de Guzman, Oaxaca, Mexico.

Templo de Santo Domingo

Gorgeous Santo Domingo is the most splendid of Oaxaca’s churches, with a finely carved baroque facade and nearly every square centimeter inside decorated…

People in the Zocalo (Town Square) in Oaxaca.

Traffic-free, shaded by tall trees and surrounded by elegant portales (arcades), the Zócalo is the perfect place to start soaking up the Oaxaca atmosphere…

Museo Rufino Tamayo

A top-class museum, even by Oaxaca's high standards, showing off a wondrous collection of pre-Hispanic art donated by the city's most famous artist,…

Busy pedestrian street, Calle Alcalá, in downtown Oaxaca.

Andador Turístico

Historic, romantic, dignified and safe, wonderful Calle Alcalá (traffic-free since the 1980s) is what Oaxaca is all about. It runs north from the…

Espacio Zapata

In a city of provocative graphic art, this workshop and gallery is a key agitator. Founded by the art collective Asaro (Asamblea de Artistas…

At the center of this gallery's workshop is an exceedingly rare 8-ton J Voirin lithography press, which prints both acrylics and woodcuts. Works on…

North America, Mexico, Oaxaca state, Oaxaca, garden in Santo Domingo church

Jardín Etnobotánico

In former monastic grounds behind the Templo de Santo Domingo, this garden features plants from around Oaxaca state, including a staggering variety of…

Top picks from our travel experts

Top things to do in the culturally rich oaxaca city.

Mercado 20 de Noviembre

Looking for cheap street food? Look no further. Dozens of good, clean comedores (food stalls) fill this large market where wait staff will thrust menus to…

Experience Agave

Knowledgeable English-speaking guides take you to at least two artisinal mezcal distilleries and they explain the production process. The tour includes…

Bicicletas Pedro Martínez

This friendly team headed by Mexican Olympic cyclist Pedro Martínez offers mostly off-road rides (and some great day walks) amid some of Oaxaca state’s…

Auditorio Guelaguetza

The July Guelaguetza celebrations take place in this rather spectacular semi-open-air auditorium on the Cerro del Fortín.

This pleasant cafe offers a small lunch menu to pair with a wide selection of single-origin coffee, prepared in a variety of ways, depending on batch and…

Fonda Florecita

A popular local haunt for more than 50 years, this is the classic Oaxaca market-food experience. There's no printed menu, so you might try the salsa de…

Tamales de San Agustín Yatareni

Find out why oaxaqueños queue up to buy these large tamales filled with ingredients such as squash blossom, chicken in salsa verde, mole and chapulines …

Mundo Ceiba

Oaxaca’s bike hub inhabits a large garage with an on-site cafe and is instrumental in organizing the Paseos Nocturnos en Bicicleta, a free communal bike…

Boulenc Pan Artesano

Oaxaca’s best bakery comes with a trendy cafe next door where the most popular dish is – guess what? – avocado toast. Guys with beards or girls in Doc…

Casa Oaxaca

It’s not easy living up to the mantle of Oaxaca's best restaurant, but this place consistently achieves. A glamorous rooftop terrace, theatrical tableside…

Mezcaloteca

This swanky tasting room is by far the best place in the city to visit if you want to learn about mezcal. Not only can the staff here teach you about how…

Planning Tools

Expert guidance to help you plan your trip.

Things to Know

Oaxaca is one of the most intriguing destinations in Mexico. Here's what you should know before you go.

Best Neighborhoods

The neighborhoods of Oaxaca make this city one of Mexico’s most alluring destinations. Here’s our guide to the best areas in town.

With these day trips from Oaxaca City, you can discover hikes through cloud forests, traditional artisans at work, mezcal distilleries and much more.

Money and Costs

Tips for saving dinero on your next trip.

Transportation

Here's the lowdown on how to get around in fast-growing Oaxaca.

Plan with a local

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Maddy's Avenue

By: Maddy Cornelius · Last Updated: February 29, 2024

25 Incredible Things to Do in Oaxaca City, Mexico

Planning to visit Oaxaca City? (Lucky you.) From bustling markets , smoky street food stalls , charming mezcalerías , colorful colonial architecture , and world-class restaurants to indigenous archaeological sites , vibrant handicrafts and textiles , and incredible museums – there are countless fun, unique, and enriching things to do in Oaxaca City, Mexico!

As the undeniable cultural and culinary capital of Mexico , the amount of authentic experiences and mind-boggling flavors that await you in Oaxaca City (also known as Oaxaca de Juarez) is almost overwhelming.

There's so much to see, do and eat in Oaxaca City, Mexico! Here are the 25 best things to do in Oaxaca, including markets, mezcal, and more!

Personally, I’ve visited Oaxaca as a tourist and lived there as a digital nomad. I have explored this amazing colonial city (and the surrounding area) extensively. So with that experience under my belt, I’ve rounded up my top picks for the best things to do in Oaxaca City and its surroundings – along with where to stay, what to eat, and some other must-know tips !

Let’s get into it. Here are the 25 amazing things to eat, see, and do in Oaxaca City!

Maddy standing in front of some colorful colonial buildings in Oaxaca City

This blog post covers the 25 best things to do in Oaxaca, plus other need-to-know tips, info, and recommendations. It’s a comprehensive guide for your trip to Oaxaca!

Use this table of contents to jump to specific sections of the post.

Table of Contents

Affordable Luxury

1. head to el zócalo, 2. visit the museo de las culturas de oaxaca, 3. try the (amazing) street food, 4. explore monte alban, 5. stop by templo de santo domingo, 6. dine at oaxaca’s best restaurants, 7. meander through mercado de benito juárez, 8. visit a mezcalería for a mezcal tasting, 9. take a cooking class, 10. see the street art in xochimilco, 11. shop for local crafts, 12. feast at the mercado 20 de noviembre, 13. stroll through the botanical gardens (jardín etnobotánico de oaxaca), 14. learn about traditional textiles & weaving, 15. explore the mercado de abastos, 16. stroll the quiet streets of barrio jalatlaco, 17. go to hierve el agua, 18. sip on hot chocolate (and atole), 19. visit the tlacolula sunday market, 20. tour a mezcal distillery, 20. check out the art galleries, 22. visit mitla, 23. see el tule, 24. drink at a rooftop bar, 25. experience day of the dead (día de los muertos), oaxaca city travel faqs, quick tips for oaxaca city, how to get to oaxaca city, 25 absolutely amazing things to do in oaxaca city, best of oaxaca city + surroundings guide & map.

In this printable 17-page PDF guide & corresponding Google Map, I’ve expertly curated 70+ authentic, culture-filled places to add to your itinerary!

Where to Stay in Oaxaca City

Before we dive into the fun stuff, let’s get the logistics out of the way! Shall we?

Oaxaca is filled to the brim with authenticity, culture, tradition, and charm. In other words, you won’t find any huge international hotel brands as you roam the streets. Instead, you’ll stumble upon plenty of cute, historic bed and breakfasts with typical decor and beautiful courtyards.

There are also plenty of other options, ranging from fine hotels to budget-friendly hostels.

Here are my top recommendations on places to stay in Oaxaca!

Quinta Real Oaxaca : A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this hotel is set inside of the 16th-century Convent of Santa Catalina de Siena. It is BEAUTIFUL and the location is perfect. For a unique, romantic, all-around amazing stay, choose Quinta Real Oaxaca . This is my top choice, stay here !
Palacio Borghese Hotel Boutique : So luxurious and charming, you’ll feel like Mexican royalty when you stay here – only, without the high price tag!
Casa Antonieta : This luxe hotel in the city center is set inside of the loveliest colonial building – but it’s revamped with a modern, hipster vibe. Casa Antonieta ‘s rooms and courtyard are beautiful and the rooftop bar is sublime !

A charming hotel in El Centro, Oaxaca City.

NaNa Vida Hotel Oaxaca : You’ll love the pops of color and cute decor in this quaint little hotel in the city center.
La Casa de Pino : The family who runs this hotel is so incredibly welcoming and kind! The rooms are lovely and there’s a pool too. I loved my stay here!
Hotel Casa de la Tía Tere : Amazing value for money, friendly service, and a fab location. I loved the fact that there was a pool in the courtyard too!
Selina Oaxaca
Hostal las Americas
Andaina Hostel

You can find other great deals on Oaxaca accommodations here .

Top 25 Best Things to Do in Oaxaca City, Mexico

Now for the fun part: The best things to do in Oaxaca City, Mexico.

After living in this amazing city, I can confirm that these are the best, can’t-miss, and most fun things to do in Oaxaca City!

The Oaxaca Cathedral in the Zocalo of Oaxaca City, Mexico

First things first, head to El Zócalo .

El Zócalo is Oaxaca’s main square, located smack in Oaxaca city center. Home to the Oaxaca Cathedral , it’s the perfect place to people-watch and discover what local life is like .

In the main square, dozens of street food stalls permeate the lively atmosphere with smoky, mouth-watering aromas. Fresh fruit stands offer to quench your thirst on sweltering days. And hundreds of local people gather to relax, catch up, laugh, dance to live music, and sell traditional handicrafts, clothing, and souvenirs. It is a real hub of local culture.

Why not buy some fresh fruit with a sprinkle of Tajín (chili, lime, salt)? Or some nieve (Mexican sorbet)? Then find somewhere to sit, and spend some time taking it all in. Make sure to pop into the Oaxaca Cathedral, too!

The Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca is one of the best museums I've ever been to, and one of the top things you must do in Oaxaca!

No doubt, exploring the Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca is one of the top things to do in Oaxaca City. During my travels, I’ve been to countless museums, but this is one of the most spectacular .

Set in a centuries-old monastery, walking through the historic building itself is an experience. It’s beautiful . But as you roam through the monastery, you’ll also learn about the many indigenous cultures that have thrived in the state of Oaxaca – and find yourself blown away by the precious artifacts and amazing art from the Pre-Colombian era, and from during and after the Conquest.

The museum is open daily; entry costs 90 MXN (about $5) per person.

The street food in Oaxaca is incredible. To fully experience Oaxaca City, you must try the street food.

Want to taste the best of Oaxaca? Then head to the streets!

Deep indigenous roots, centuries-old techniques, and sacred family recipes make up Oaxaca’s street food scene… And honestly, tasting these traditional dishes is an honor . The tricky part is knowing how and where to find Oaxaca’s best street food vendors!

The best strategy? Take a street food tour with a local food expert. Over 4.5 hours, this Authentic Oaxaca Food Tour (Eat Like a Local) will lead you through local markets and streets to a variety of the best food stalls. You’ll savor more than 20 different local specialties and learn about Oaxacan food and culture along the way. This food tour is a can’t-miss experience!

Eating the amazing local food - like these tortas, posole, and toastadas, is one of the best things to do in Oaxaca.

Every meal is precious when you travel; this Authentic Oaxaca Food Tour will ensure you taste the best of the best! Click HERE to book your Authentic Oaxaca Food Tour .

HOT TIP: If you prefer to go it alone, then it’s always a good idea to stop at the most delicious-smelling stalls (especially the ones crowded by locals!) and see what looks interesting to you. Some of the dishes you have to try include tlayudas, tamales oaxaqueños , memelas , tetelas , and empanadas oaxaqueñas . (Unsurprisingly, they all incorporate corn in some way!) Oh, and before you go, here’s some required reading: 10 Tips for Keeping a Happy Tummy While Traveling in Developing Countries

Top-Rated Oaxaca Tours:

Exploring the ancient ruins of Monte Alban is one of the most enriching and memorable things you will do in Oaxaca.

A trip to Oaxaca would be incomplete without visiting an indigenous archaeological site or two! Especially Monte Albán , the mother of all the ruins in the state of Oaxaca and a UNESCO World Heritage Site .

Monte Albán was one of the earliest cities in Mesoamerica and the main sociopolitical and economic center for the Zapotecs for roughly 1,000 years. Other peoples, such as the Olmecs and the Mixtecs, also lived here in succession.

The ingenious centuries-old engineering of Monte Albán’s pyramids, canals, terraces, and dams will blow your mind!

The best way to experience Monte Albán is with an expert tour guide so that you can fully grasp the magnitude of what you’re seeing.

I recommend booking this half-day tour to Monte Albán.

HOT TIP: If you’re crunched for time, and tossing up visiting Monte Alban or other ancient ruins sites like Mitla , Yagul , or Xaagá , don’t. Monte Alban is a must! The others are nice to see, but aren’t the top priority. CLICK HERE to book your Half-Day Guided Tour of Monte Albán .

Visiting the Templo de Santo Domingo is one of the top things to do in Oaxaca.

The Templo de Santo Domingo is arguably the most beautiful church – inside and out – in all of Oaxaca.

Mainly built between 1570 and 1608, the region’s best artists came all the way from Puebla and elsewhere in Mexico to help construct this church.

The ceiling inside of the Templo de Santo Domingo is so beautiful - it's a must-see while in Oaxaca.

Oaxaca is an earthquake-prone region, so the church’s stone walls and pillars are incredibly thick. Meanwhile, its domed interior is adorned in ornate paintings, a gilded altar, and masterful sculptures.

The beauty and all of the intricate golden details inside Templo de Santo Domingo are worth checking out!

Casa Oaxaca is one of the best restaurants in Oaxaca City. During a trip to Oaxaca, this restaurant is a can't-miss, along with a myriad of other amazing restaurants. No doubt, eating the local food is one of the best things to do in Oaxaca.

As you might’ve guessed, Oaxaca is home to some of Mexico’s best restaurants . So splurging on a few amazing dining experiences is non-negotiable! You have to do it! You’ll also have the opportunity to try local (and delicious!) delicacy ingredients like chicatanas , huitlacoche , and escamoles .

I’ve dined at most of Oaxaca’s top restaurants, and I can tell you that these are the best ones you can’t miss… In order of priority! Some of these are “fine” dining, but mostly they’re just super special, Oaxaca-specific dining experiences.

Escamole tostada at Casa Oaxaca - so good!

Oaxaca City’s Top Restaurants

Casa Oaxaca
Levadura de Olla
Las Quince Letras
Los Danzantes
Tierra del Sol
Cocina de Humo

Casa Oaxaca ‘s rooftop dining area, which overlooks the beautiful Templo de Santo Domingo and those old cobblestone streets, is truly special. Not to mention… The amazing, modern Mexican food, attentive service, and table-side salsa-making create an all-around unforgettable dining experience! But you should really make sure you go to Levadura de Olla , Alfonsina , and Las Quince Letras too .

Compared to similar experiences in, let’s say, Europe or the USA, fine dining in Oaxaca is very affordable. Also, it should go without saying, but: You MUST make reservations in advance!

Exploring the Benito Juarez market is one of the top experiences to have while in the city!

El Mercado de Benito Juárez is a maze of colorful market stalls offering everything from street snacks and typical ingredients, to traditional clothing, handmade pottery, home décor, and hand-painted crafts.

Primarily, El Mercado de Benito Juárez is a perfect for exploring and starting to understanding more about the local culture and people. I think you can find better handicrafts and souvenirs elsewhere, but there are still some great gems to uncover!

Personally, I always like to purchase a few staple ingredients for my kitchen here – including mole negro paste, packed with roughly 30 delicious ingredients. (This is an amazing thing to bring home with you!)

Make sure to clear a few hours in your schedule. This market is huge and demands plenty of time to see, taste, and experience everything on offer! In fact, you may need to return a couple of times.

NOTE: Over the years, this market has become increasingly touristy – as has Oaxaca! If you’re looking for a true local’s experience, then make sure to visit the Mercado de Abastos (see #15).

Here’s your go-to Oaxaca guide! In this printable 17-page PDF & corresponding Google Map, I’ve curated 70+ authentic places and hidden gems to add to your itinerary!

Ever heard of mezcal? Put simply, mezcal is the smokier, edgier (and more delicious) cousin of tequila and it is the thing to drink in Oaxaca.

Throughout the city, you will encounter plenty of different mezcalerías – or mezcal bars. And in my opinion, it’d be a crime if you didn’t stop in for a mezcal tasting!

At some mezcalerías, you will need to make a reservation in advance. But at others, you can simply walk in, strike up a conversation with the bartender, and proceed to taste and learn about different mezcals!

For learning and sipping, my top recommendation is Mezcalillera ! El Cortijo and Los Amantes are two other options, but you can also just meander and see what you stumble upon!

Oaxacan cheese, and other Oaxacan street foods are must tries in Oaxaca.

Oaxaca is the undisputed culinary capital of Mexico, so if you have any interest in traditional Mexican or indigenous Mesoamerican cuisines, then you should take a cooking class in Oaxaca. No doubt, your cooking class will be a highlight of your trip! It’s one of the best ways to get a hands-on experience with Oaxacan culture, fresh produce, delicious food and cuisine.

Want to learn how to make mole sauce from scratch? How about fresh tortillas, and salsa? Or maybe Oaxacan tamales wrapped in banana leaves? In this Oaxaca cooking class , you will! But first, you’ll visit a traditional market to pick up the best, freshest ingredients!

All cooking classes in Oaxaca cost roughly $80 per person, but I promise, it’s worth the splurge.

CLICK HERE to book your Oaxaca Cooking Class with a Market Tour!

P.S. If you’re a vegetarian, no worries! There’s a Oaxacan Vegetarian Cooking Class just for you!

Can’t-Miss Oaxaca Excursions:

Colorful street art in Xochimilco, Oaxaca, Mexico

Roaming the charming neighborhood of Xochimilco and checking out the street art is one of the most underrated things to do in Oaxaca!

While there are a few cute cafés and restaurants here, the area is largely residential: home to quaint colonial buildings and the city’s best street art!

The murals here are super colorful and mostly represent different aspects of Mexican culture. A must for art lovers and Instagrammers alike!

Street vendors selling handicrafts in the center of Oaxaca de Juarez

Oaxaca is one of the last tourist destinations on earth where handicrafts are still hand made with love, care, and tradition. Whether you want to buy something to decorate your home with (such as a hand-woven tapestry, beautiful textured pillows, a vibrant blanket, or a hand-painted alebrije ), or something to wear (like buttery leather huaraches , a wicker tote bag, or a traditional blouse), you can find it in Oaxaca!

An amazing place to start looking – and understanding what kind of crafts are typical of the area – is at La Casa de las Artesanías de Oaxaca . The shop has everything (albeit at higher prices, no bartering here!) in a calm environment.

After that, a great (more local) place to shop for crafts is the Mercado de Artesanias . However, there are all kinds of street vendors, stalls, and shops throughout the city. Just be ready to barter!

Tasty tlayuda - an open-faced Oaxacan-style pizza tacos

The Mercado 20 de Noviembre is a food market in the center of the city, featuring dozens of food stalls and all kinds of delicious Oaxacan food and local cuisine. From pollo con mole and enfrijoladas , to tlayudas (pictured above!) and tetelas , you can find it all in the Mercado 20 de Noviembre!

Grilled meat with soft taco shells, onions and salsas on white plastic cups

There’s also a section of the market called el Pasillo de los Tasajos , which is essentially a smoked-out hallway lined with barbecues grilling steaks, sausages, and more – and serving them up alongside grilled onions and spicy salsas. For meat-lovers, this is a must !

RELATED: For great deals on centrally located hotels in Oaxaca, click here !

You can't miss the Ethnobotanical Garden in Oaxaca. It's one of the top things to do.

In the Oaxaca city center, around the back of el Templo de Santo Domingo, you’ll find the city’s treasured Ethnobotanical Garden, filled with all kinds of beautiful cacti and other regional flora.

The Jardín Etnobotánico de Oaxaca is a peaceful place to visit, enjoy a slow wander, and take some photos among the cacti.

My advice? Visit Jardín Etnobotánico de Oaxaca right when it opens at 8 AM to avoid the crowds and the heat!

Colorful textiles are one of the best things to buy as souvenirs in Oaxaca - and shopping for traditional crafts is one of the best things to do in Oaxaca.

Look around, and it won’t take you more than five seconds to realize that textiles – and specifically, wool rugs – are a huge deal in Oaxaca, Mexico .

Museo Textil de Oaxaca

So much so, that there’s a small but lovely (and free!) museum dedicated to Oaxacan textiles: El Museo de Textil de Oaxaca .

While textiles may not strike you as the most fascinating thing in the world, they are, indeed . This ancient art form is a key piece of Oaxaca’s cultural puzzle, so make sure to stop by.

Teotitlán del Valle

No doubt, a cultural highlight of your trip will be visiting the traditional Zapotec weaving village of Teotitlán del Valle (located 30 minutes outside of Oaxaca).

In this cute pueblo , you will discover endless textile workshops and showrooms to visit, where a master weaver will show you the incredible natural dyeing and weaving processes that the Zapotec peoples have been using for centuries. (FYI: The Zapotec are one of Oaxaca’s most significant and enduring ancient indigenous cultures.)

After seeing the love and hard work that goes into these stunning textiles, you will want to buy them all !

HOT TIP: This day trip makes a visit to Teotitlán del Valle , as well as some other attractions (like ancient ruins and mezcal factories) in the Oaxaca valley. CLICK HERE to book your Full-Day Tour of Mitla, Hierve el Agua, Teotitlán del Valle, a Mezcal Distillery & El Tule !

The Mercado de Abastos is a chaotic local market to check out if you're looking for an authentic experience.

Ready for an adventure? You’ll find one within the Abastos Market’s dizzying maze of colors, sights, and smells.

If you’re looking for an authentic and local market experience, then you’ll agree: this traditional market is way bigger, way better, and far more interesting than any of the markets in the city center.

About a 15-minute walk from the Zócalo, the Mercado de Abastos is well and truly off the Oaxaca tourist trail. You will find everything in here, from fresh produce and food stalls, to bakeries, carnicerías, clothing, shoes, pets, home goods. It goes on and on.

Make sure to set aside a few hours, as this is one of the best things to do in Oaxaca City!

HOT TIP: While the market itself isn’t dangerous, I feel that the general neighborhood is a little sketchy! When you walk there, keep to the busy streets, and aim to visit in the early afternoon. While in the market, keep a watchful eye on your belongings; theft isn’t uncommon for ditzy tourist types. :)

A colorful colonial building in Barrio Jalatlaco.

Even though the enchanting 18th-century neighborhood of Barrio Jalatlaco borders busy El Centro, it flies under most tourists’ radars.

This cute, quiet neighborhood of cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, murals, and sweet little coffee shops is one of Oaxaca City’s last hidden gems. It’s the perfect place to escape the crowds and soak up the beauty of Oaxaca.

Grab a coffee to-go and enjoy a relaxing morning stroll – and feel as if you’ve gone back in time.

Psssst… My Best of Oaxaca City + Surroundings PDF Guide & Map is packed with 70+ authentic experiences, delicious restaurants, hidden gems, and expert tips. This is your go-to resource for planning your dream trip. Take it with you, and reference it easily any time! GET IT HERE!

During your trip to Oaxaca, make sure to go to Hierve el Agua - it is one of the best things to see in Oaxaca.

When you visit Oaxaca, it would be a shame to spend the entire time on cobblestone streets. Make sure you get out into the enchanting, mountainous Oaxaca Valley to explore one of Oaxaca’s natural wonders: Hierve el Agua.

A sacred site for the Zapotecs, Hierve El Agua is a stunning spectacle. There, you will find two petrified waterfalls (made up of calcium carbonate) as well as green and blue pools filled by natural mineral springs. You can swim in them, so make sure to bring a swimsuit!

HOT TIP: Since it’s a 90-minute drive from the city center, you may want to take this combo day trip . This day trip will take you on a guided tour of Hierve el Agua, as well as Mitla, El Tule, Teotitlán del Valle, and a mezcal distillery. CLICK HERE to book your day trip.

Oaxaca is famous for its amazing chocolate – and therefore, for hot chocolate, made in clay pots, and laced with cinnamon and almonds.

Atole, on the other hand, is a hot corn-based drink… It’s actually of Aztec origin, but if you’ve never tried an atole, you can in Oaxaca!

Here are my favorite places for Oaxacan hot chocolate (and atole):

Kiyo Café : I’d drink their Salted Mocha with Oaxacan chocolate every day if I could. So good.
La Atolería : This place is so cute ! Try a chocolate atole, or go beyond, and explore different versions infused with other fruits, spices, and more.
Oaxaca En Una Taza : A cute little café offering delightful cups of traditional hot chocolate (infused with your choices of spices and fruits) and delicate pastries.

The indigenous Tlacolula Sunday Market is a must while visiting Oaxaca!

Have you heard of a “tianguis” before? Well, you’ll find one in the town of Tlacolula de Matamoros every Sunday!

A “tianguis” is a traditional Zapotec and Mixtec open-air market that spills out across many streets, creating a sprawling sea of aromas, sights, sounds, colors, and culture.

If you’re a foodie, eating here is an unparalleled and super authentic experience. You’ll try some scrumptious indigenous dishes you may never lay eyes on again!

HOT TIP: While you’re there: BUY. THE. CHOCOLATE. I already mentioned that Oaxacan chocolate – with its rich combination of cinnamon, almonds, and sometimes chili – is insanely good. I found that that’s especially the case at the Tlacolula Market!

Donkeys crush smoked agave hearts to turn it into a fermented spirit similar to tequila. Mezcal is one of the top things to drink in Oaxaca, and going to a mezcaleria is one of the best things to do.

If you haven’t picked up on this yet, artisanal mezcal is the drink of choice in Oaxaca. The nearby region of Santiago Matatlán is actually the “World Capital Of Mezcal”, so why not go there are see how it’s made?

To give you a quick idea, first the mezcaleros roast the hearts (or piñas ) of agave plants in underground pits with hot rocks for (up to) a few days. Next, the pits are uncovered and donkeys or mules macerate the agave with a stone tool (called a tauna ) to aid the fermentation process. And finally, the cooked agave plants are distilled into delicious mezcal!

Take a day trip around the region , where you’ll stop for a mezcal tour and a mezcal tasting. You’ll have so much fun learning about how to make this smoky, strong, and delicious spirit. Make sure to buy a couple of bottles to bring home too!

For an awesome day trip to a mezcal distillery (as well as some other amazing regional sites) click here !

HOT TIP: If you’d rather rent a car and take a day trip on your own, my guide, How to Take the Best Self-Guided Day Trip from Oaxaca City (Route & Tips!) , will show you how!

My Recommended Oaxaca Day Trips:

As you roam the city streets, you’ll happen upon countless art galleries showcasing all kinds of art, from Oaxacan folk to modern art.

Make sure to stop into each (or, at least, most ) of the galleries to enjoy the brilliantly colorful paintings, sculptures, and more.

HOT TIP: If you want to dive even further into Oaxaca’s art scene, make sure to check out the Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Oaxaca (MACO) , where you’ll find contemporary art by the likes of Rufino Tamayo, Francisco Toledo, and other great Oaxacan artists.

Church in Mitla ancient ruins in Mexico.

After Monte Alban, Mitla is the second most important archaeological site in the Mexican state of Oaxaca. Mitla is thought to be a sacred burial ground for the Zapotecs. And it makes sense, since Mitla is a Nahuatl name translating to Place of the Dead.

Visiting the indigenous ruins, such as Mitla and Monte Alban, is one of the best things to do in Oaxaca. Interesting, beautiful, can't miss.

If you have some extra time, you should make sure to visit Mitla as well as Monte Albán .

CLICK HERE to book your Full-Day Tour of Mitla, Hierve el Agua, Teotitlán del Valle, a Mezcal Distillery & El Tule !

This tree is huge and is more than 2,000 years old. It is in a town nearby Oaxaca, called El Tule.

While looking at a tree might not seem like one of the top things to do in Oaxaca, it totally is.

El Tule is, by far, the most impressive tree I’ve ever seen… considering that it’s more than 2,000 years old, 119 feet in circumference, and 116 feet tall!

After you’ve marveled El Tule for a bit, feel free to roam around the tree’s adorable hometown of Santa María del Tule and do some people-watching.

This tour is one of the best day trips from Oaxaca, and includes a stop at El Tule (as well as Mitla, a mezcal distillery, Hierve el Agua, and Teotitlán del Valle). Click here to book it!

Drinking a cocktail on an amazing rooftop bar in Oaxaca.

Mezcal cocktail? Amazing view? What more could you ask for?

When your feet get tired from all the exploring, head to one of Oaxaca’s rooftop bars!

Here are some of my favorites:

Amá Terraza : My favorite spot in town, find natural wines, epic cocktails, delicious bites, and the most beautiful atmosphere here. (This is the rooftop bar at Casa Antonieta , one of my top hotel recommendations! Click here to book your stay. )
Puro Burro y La Pulquísima : Prices are on the friendlier side here. The drinks (from mezcal and pulque to micheladas), happy hour, food, service, and views are all-around great.
Los Amantes Mezcalería : A little pricy, but that’s because the ambiance and views of the Templo de Santo Domingo cannot be topped! The cocktails are fab either way!

Day of the Dead ( Día de los Muertos in Spanish) is a Mexican holiday and festival where families and friends gather to welcome back the souls of family members who have passed away. Undeniably, as a traveler, the best place to experience Day of the Dead is in Oaxaca.

If you go to Oaxaca during Day of the Dead celebrations, you’ll be met with intricate altars decked in flowers, candles, and religious figures. Not to mention, markets bursting with altar decorations, mole sauce, chocolates, and tamales, and a sea of endless sugar skull faces. All of this, and more, is Mexico’s way of celebrating and remembering the lives of lost loved ones.

Day of the Dead festivities take place every year on November 1st and 2nd. If possible, plan your trip to line up with these dates, and you will be set for the cultural experience of a lifetime!

As a Mexican cultural center, of course, there are lots of other amazing annual festivals to experience in Oaxaca! Consider visiting during La Guelaguetza (a celebration of indigenous Oaxacan culture, every July), Semana Santa (Easter celebrations, every April), and Las Posadas and Christmas (Christmas celebrations, in December, of course).

RELATED READING: 20 Festivals to Experience in Your 20s

If you don’t speak Spanish, this can be a tricky one! In case you’re not sure, Oaxaca is pronounced like [wa-ha-ka].

Absolutely! There are endless reasons to visit Oaxaca ! Oaxaca City is one of the top destinations to visit in Mexico for its bustling markets, rainbow-colored colonial architecture, incredibly rich history and indigenous cultures, artisan galleries and workshops, friendly locals, and some of the world’s best street food. In this blog post , I’ve detailed the top 10 reasons why Oaxaca is worth visiting.

There are countless unique and enriching cultural and culinary experiences to discover in Oaxaca. Some of the best things to do in Oaxaca City include visiting indigenous archaeological sites like Monte Alban and Mitla, trying local street food, sipping Mexican hot chocolate and local mezcal, exploring the bustling markets, going to the many museums, swimming at Hierve el Agua, experience Day of the Dead celebrations, and so much more. This article includes the top 25 things to do during a visit to Oaxaca, Mexico.

Yes, Oaxaca is pretty safe for tourists. Like any other destination, it’s important to keep your wits about you, be aware of your surroundings, and do your research before you arrive. Speaking from years of personal experience traveling through Mexico, Oaxaca is one of the places I feel safest – especially in the tourist neighborhoods of El Centro and Barrio Jalatlaco.

Oaxaca City, Mexico has become increasingly popular among tourists over the past five or so years. The first time I visited in 2016, and I barely saw any other foreigners. Nowadays, it’s a lot busier… And the prices reflect that! There are certainly cheaper places you could travel to in Mexico (like Cholula, Mexico ), but still, Oaxaca is by no means expensive. Oaxaca City is still a very affordable destination. To give you some examples: You can easily stay at a very nice hotel for $100 per night or stay at a hostel for about $20 per night. A half-day trip to Monte Alban is only about $35. You can take a full day trip to Mitla, Hierve el Agua, Teotitlán del Valle, a mezcal distillery, and El Tule for roughly $45. A meal from a street vendor or traditional market will cost you about $2. A coffee from a nice coffee shop costs about $3-4. A local beer is $2-3, and nice mezcal cocktail will be between $5-10. A meal at a mid-range restaurant that caters toward travelers can cost anywhere from $5-20. Of course, the nicer restaurants (see #6 above for recommendations!) cost a bit more, but are still “cheap” compared to on-par restaurants in the USA or Europe. All in all, Oaxaca is a very affordable place to travel to!

What to Pack for Oaxaca City

What to pack for your trip to Oaxaca City of course varies on the seasons. Check the weather before you travel and as a general rule pack layers. Year round there are a few essentials I would recommend:

Comfortable footwear: A lot of Oaxaca City is really walkable so make sure you have comfortable shoes that don’t ruin your time exploring this incredible city. These are my go-to boots for colder months or you can pack a good pair of sneakers. A decent pair of comfortable sandals like these are perfect for the summer.
Water bottle : Speaking of walking around, remember to keep hydrated! Bring a reusable water bottle to save on plastic bottles.
Sunscreen : This is Mexico, the sun is strong and it gets hot, remember to pack a good mineral sunscreen and avoid the sun in the middle of the day during the hotter months.
Bug spray : If you are prone to being eaten by bugs pack a deet-free bug spray and keep it with you to reapply during the day.
Lightweight scarf : This always comes in useful, it is great to keep in your bag for when visiting religious sites and is also great to use when the sun gets a little strong, even when it gets cooler! This scarf is always handy to pack.
HOTEL : I use this website for scoring amazing deals on accommodation worldwide. There are some incredible hotel options in Oaxaca City, stay in a UNESCO World Heritage site in Quinta Real Oaxaca or enjoy a family vibe at La Casa de Pino .
HOSTELWORLD : If you’re traveling on a budget, this is the best website to score cheap hostel deals.
VACATION RENTAL : I use this site for finding the perfect vacation rental for an unforgettable getaway.
TRAVEL INSURANCE : Never go on a trip without travel insurance! If you are a remote worker and/or traveling regularly, SafetyWing has an awesome monthly subscription for digital nomad insurance (I currently use SafetyWing ).
GUIDED TOURS & EXCURSIONS : Many of the tours I recommend are hosted with Viator, which also works with local tour operators.
CHEAP FLIGHTS : Oaxaca City airport is the obvious choice if you are flying straight in. Get great deals on flights using my favorite flight fare aggregator .
TRAVEL GEAR : A collection of all of my must-have travel gear are all listed here . But most important to remember is bug spray , and suncream , nobody needs bites and burns on their vacation photos!
CAR RENTAL : It’s unlikely you will need a car if you are staying in Oaxaca City but if you are using this as a starting point for a road trip and need a rental car book in advance here for the best deals.

Via Airplane (Recommended)

The safest and quickest way to take a trip to Oaxaca is by flying there. Of course, there are domestic flights available throughout Mexico to Oaxaca City – and there are plenty of one-stop flights available from the USA. Los Angeles, Dallas, and Houston have direct flights to Oaxaca now too!

From the airport, you can easily grab an official private taxi ( especial ), or take a shared shuttle ( colectivo ) to the city center for around $10 USD per person. Depending on the size of your group, a private taxi may be cheaper (and have less stops, too!). The drive usually takes about 15-30 minutes, depending on traffic.

Many Oaxaca City hotels offer a pre-arranged shuttle service, so that may be an option for you too.

Take the Bus

If you’re taking the bus from Mexico City, Puerto Escondido, or elsewhere in Mexico, first of all, make sure to book a daytime-only trip. Second of all, if possible, plan to travel with ADO’s first-class service; it’s super comfy, making your travel time pass quickly. From the bus station, you will need to take an official taxi to your hotel (there is no Uber in Oaxaca!).

Drive Yourself

If you’re traveling from Puerto Escondido, or somewhere else nearby, you can drive yourself to Oaxaca.

However, for safety and ease, I wouldn’t recommend this option. Once you’re in Oaxaca City, you will have little use for a car. The city is very walkable and taxis (if necessary) are very affordable. Plus, depending on where you’re traveling from, it can be dangerous to drive yourself to Oaxaca City.

If you’re convinced on road-tripping through Mexico, know this: it is not safe to drive the highways after dark.

Click here to find the best deals on rental cars in Mexico.

Looking for a specific route? This website offers bookable routes via buses, private shuttles, and more, to/from other locations in Mexico.

Well, there you have it, friends! Those are the top 25 most incredible and unforgettable things to do in Oaxaca City.

Between its fascinating history, incredible food, smoky mezcal, warm and friendly locals, indigenous archaeological sites, Day of the Dead celebrations, beautiful arts and handicrafts, and surrounding natural beauty, Oaxaca City is home to an overwhelming variety of unique and enriching experiences.

Plus, with its bright-colored colonial façades, cobblestone streets, wrought-iron details, and peaceful tree-lined plazas, Oaxaca is one of the most beautiful cities I’ve ever seen.

I don’t think a city has ever stolen my heart as quickly as Oaxaca did. And if you follow this guide of the best things to do in Oaxaca, Mexico, my guess is, you’ll feel the same.

MORE MEXICO TRAVEL INSPIRATION

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Ultimate Guide to Living in Oaxaca City as a Digital Nomad

What are your favorite, top things to do in Oaxaca City? Let us know in the comments below!

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About Maddy Cornelius

Hey! I'm the cook, world explorer, chief wordsmith, and photographer behind Maddy's Avenue. A California native, I've lived in many countries around the globe, but I'm currently traveling through Latin America. Slowly. Running two businesses. Livin' the "digital nomad" life. I’m here to learn, grow, and explore this planet - ever in search of big flavors and epic adventures. My goal? To inspire you to live a bold life: to discover yourself and the world around you at greater depths – one forkful, or one plane ticket, at a time. Thanks for being here!

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December 30, 2023 at 12:40 pm

Maddy – your 25 tips for Oaxaca are amazing! I compared them to other sites, but yours was the most detailed and efficient. Thank you for posting this valuable information as it’ll make my trip planning so much easier. Lastly, your travel packing tips are super helpful! Keep up the excellent work. Greetings from Canada!

January 2, 2024 at 1:59 pm

Thank you so much! Comments like this mean everything to me :)

I hope you have an incredible time in Oaxaca City!

January 2, 2024 at 12:38 pm

Super helpful info. Well written and clearly organized for readers! So glad I found your site.

Thank you so much, Traci! I am so glad you find my site too :)

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Packing up the Pieces

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Oaxaca Itinerary | Unique & Best Things to Do in Oaxaca City | 3 Days – 2 Weeks

Filled with timeless culture, its own unique cuisine, bustling markets, fascinating Mixteca and Zapotec ruins, and stunning landscapes, Oaxaca is a magical place to visit in Mexico. With so much richness and diversity, planning for an Oaxaca itinerary for the first time can be overwhelming.

Most travelers will be drawn to visit Oaxaca de Juárez or Oaxaca City. This lively city boasts the UNESCO World Heritage sites of the historic city center and the unmissable Monte Alban ruins. Find vibrant markets that are filled with delicious Oaxacan cuisine and intricate handicrafts from nearby communities.

Downtown Oaxaca City is a delight to stroll with its cobblestone streets and colorful buildings. There are incredible botanical gardens, free museums, art galleries, politically fueled street art, and hip neighborhoods (barrios) that shouldn’t be missed.

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There are so many awesome things to do in Oaxaca. Below find some of my top recommendations and suggestions to add to any Oaxaca itinerary. The following Oaxaca itineraries focus mostly on Oaxaca City and top day trips from Oaxaca . The standard Oaxaca itinerary is best explored over 3 – 10 days.

However, included in this Oaxaca itinerary guide is a basic overview for travelers who have more time to explore the richness and best places to visit in Oaxaca State Mexico . There’s the underrated Mixteca region, the magical mountains of the Sierra Sur , and the rugged Pacific coastline dotted with Oaxaca beach towns .

Additionally, find Oaxaca travel tips, how to get to Oaxaca City, where to stay, eat, and more

Here are the top things to do in Oaxaca City with multiple and diverse Oaxaca itinerary options.

General oaxaca travel tips, how to get to oaxaca city.

4 Epic Oaxaca Itineraries

Where to Stay in Oaxaca City

More Things to Do in Oaxaca Mexico | 2 Week Oaxaca Itinerary
Find the Best Oaxaca Itinerary & Awesome Things to Do in Oaxaca City

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Oaxaca (pronounced waa· haa ·kuh) Mexico is a must for travelers looking to seek an authentic side of Mexico. While Spanish is the dominant langue, over 16 Indigenous languages are spoken within Oaxaca state. The Indigenous people still practice ancient traditions and their connection to the past and land is a highlight to observe on any Oaxaca itinerary.

Oaxaca is one of the 32 states found in Mexico. Within Oaxaca, the state is divided into 8 very diverse regions. Oaxaca de Juárez is the largest city within the state and is located in the Valles Centrales region . Be mindful, the elevation of Oaxaca City is 5,102 ft.

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The other seven regions include the Sierra Norte (North), Sierra Sur (South), and the incredible Costa region along the Pacific Ocean. North of Chiapas State is the unique Istmo region. The Mixteca region boasts incredible hiking, and untouched nature, and was believed to be the birthplace of the Mixtec culture. The regions of Cañada and Papaloapan, share a border with the neighboring State to the north, Veracruz.

Mexico uses the pesos as a currency.

How Many Days Do You Need in Oaxaca?

In my opinion, there are so many things to do in Oaxaca that Oaxaca City alone warrants at least 5 days. However, it’s possible to visit Oaxaca as a weekend getaway from Mexico City or Puebla over 3 days. If you have more time in Oaxaca, perfect!

Oaxaca Tours Vs. Independent Travel

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Oaxaca is a tourist-friendly city so there are many guided tour options. With the city’s increasing popularity, there are many English-speaking tours. Usually in the markets, local restaurants, and a vast majority of the public transportation options, no English is spoken. Those who don’t feel comfortable with a few basic Spanish phrases may feel more comfortable opting for guided tours.

However, Oaxaca is easily connected to all the tourist destinations via public buses and collectivos, or small vans. Traveling Oaxaca independently really allows for an immersive experience. If short on time, it’s more efficient ( yet a little more expensive ) to take organized day trips from Oaxaca to nearby villages, ruins, and other Oaxaca highlights.

In the end, it comes down to time vs. money. Those with only a 3 day Oaxaca itinerary will get the most “bang for their buck” with organized Oaxaca day trip tours.

Popular Oaxaca Tours

When is the best time to visit oaxaca.

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Well, that depends.

Oaxaca has two very distinct seasons, rainy and dry. In general, the rainy season runs from May to September, while the dry season is from October – April.

During the rainy season, there are usually afternoon showers. Be mindful that sometimes there can be storms that produce quite a bit of rainfall. However, the Oaxaca Valley is SO green. The mountains that surround Oaxaca are lush and full of life and it truly is a blissful sight.

The Oaxaca dry season has cooler nights, but obviously less rain. There are lots of sunny skies. Much of the landscape turns yellow and brown. Generally, April and May are usually the hottest months in Oaxaca.

The shoulder season for tourists is between April and May and again from September and October.

In my humble opinion, there is no bad time to visit Oaxaca. The city offers so many unique things in rain or shine. It’s worth a note that the weather is mostly temperate year-round. Personally, I enjoyed rainy season and the beauty it brought to the Central Valley.

Oaxaca Festivals

If specifically seeking out Oaxaca cultural activities, it may be worth noting these popular Oaxaca Festivals.

There are celebrated festivals that mark high season. Mexico is a Catholic country, so Easter and the Holy Week are usually busy. In July, Oaxaca’s most popular festival, Guelaguetza takes place. The Zapoteca word literally translates to “reciprocal exchanges of gifts and services” and showcases many neighboring communities dancing and donning typical clothing.

Oaxaca is also a favored place to observe “Dia de los Muertos,” or Day of the Dead Celebrations. This Mexican festival takes place on the first two days of November. On December 23, Oaxaca celebrates the Night of the Radishes Festival. The Zocalo in Oaxaca is filled with artists that have carved intricate mini-statues and detailed scenes made from radishes.

Is Oaxaca Safe?

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In general, Oaxaca is safe. Of course, in any city or place in the world, there is petty crime.

At night, it’s best not to walk alone or on quiet streets. Opt to take a taxi. During the day, don’t flash out valuables or wear expensive jewelry. When using public transportation, keep your purse and valuables on your lap and never on the floor between your legs. If you’ve enjoyed one too many mezcals, take a taxi rather than walk home.

There are some spots to avoid. For example, during my time visiting, thefts had risen along the Cerro Fortin path, so I chose to walk on other trails.

As a solo female traveler I never felt threatened in Oaxaca, but I also practiced common sense and followed my gut and intuition. If something doesn’t feel or look right, don’t put yourself in a situation that could potentially be problematic.

➯ Hey… don’t forget your Travel Insurance! I love SafetyWing

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Oaxaca de Juárez has its own international airport, Oaxaca Xoxocotlan Airport (OAX) . There are frequent connections with Mexico City and to Dallas in the United States.

If you are lucky enough to already be in Mexico, Oaxaca has an ADO Bus Terminal in the Jalatlaco neighborhood.

The useful and reliable travel app of BlaBla Car is used throughout Mexico and is oftentimes cheaper than long-distance bus tickets.

How to Get to Oaxaca from the South of Mexico

Real de Guadalupe Street in San Cristobal de las Casas Mexico, colorful buildings, sky

If in the State of Chiapas, the Magical Pueblo of San Cristobal de las Casas runs daily departures to Oaxaca

🚌 San Cristobal de las Casas to Oaxaca Bus Logistics | Bus Company: ADO or Cristobal Colon | Catch the buses in San Cris here: Av Insurgentes 66 | Average Online Ticket Price: $900 pesos ($49 USD) | Duration: 12.5 hours | Current departure times : 11:30, 20:00, 21:00, 21:20 | Purchase & Verify online tickets here

✈ Helpful Chiapas Mexico Travel Guides | 8+ Day Trips from San Cristobal de las Casas | The Ultimate Chiapas Road Trip in 1 Week | Hiking in Lagos de Montebello

How to Get to Oaxaca from the North of Mexico

From Mexico City, multiple bus companies depart from a handful of Mexico City Bus Terminals, including the Mexico City Airport. Depending on your location, it’s best to verify the current bus schedule on the ADO website , which shows multiple bus companies.

There is at least one departure from Mexico City to Oaxaca City every hour. For logistical purposes, look for buses that drop at the Central de Autobuses de Oaxaca in barrio Jalatlaco.

The Best Oaxaca Itinerary | 4 Detailed Itineraries

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Now that the basics are out of the way, let’s dig deep into different Oaxaca itinerary options. Search this guide for the best things to do in Oaxaca for 3 days, 5 days, 7 days, or 10 days. For travelers that have more time, make sure to browse the overview on the Oaxaca itinerary on how to spend two weeks in Oaxaca from the city to the sea.

If traveling to Oaxaca via an international flight, most flights arrive to Oaxaca around dinner time. This is an ideal time to relax, unwind and maybe enjoy a rooftop patio or one of Oaxaca’s incredible restaurants.

Skip to | Oaxaca 3 Day Itinerary | Oaxaca 5 Day itinerary | One Week in Oaxaca Mexico | 10 Day Oaxaca Itinerary

1 | Oaxaca Itinerary in 3 Days

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With three days in Oaxaca, it’s best to stick to the historic city center and enjoy the nearby Oaxaca ruins. Also, with less time, private drivers and organized tours will help maximize sightseeing possibilities.

Day 1 | Oaxaca Itinerary

In the morning, get acquainted with the city and stroll through the downtown area referred to as Oaxaca Centro.

Things to Do in Oaxaca Historic Center

An ideal place to start is at the iconic Oaxaca church of Santo Domingo de Guzmán. Maybe grab some street food or a coffee and pastry from one of the nearby coffee shops. Take the pedestrian-friendly Macedonio Alcalá Street, which won’t be crowded yet, but may have vendors setting up make-shift stands.

This street leads to the Catedral Metropolitana de Oaxaca and the Zocalo.

Wander through the Zocalo, the main square of the city. Appreciate the surrounding historical buildings. The area acts as a “living room” for Oaxaca. The restaurants are usually packed with locals and tourists alike and the square itself overflowing with street vendors.

When ready, head to the colorful Mercado Benito Juárez, where you can find anything from a refreshing aguas frescas, a new purse, or fresh flowers. Basically, the Bento Juarez Market has it all.

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For breakfast or lunch, eat across that street at Mercado 20 de Noviembre. The market boasts tons of food stalls and is the perfect place to sample local Oaxacan cuisine.

Don’t miss walking through the famed Meat Alley, or “Pasillo de Humo.” The name translates to Hall of Smoke, due to the fact that all the fresh meat is grilled onsite. The enticing smoke wafts through the corridor, luring in hungry locals and visitors alike. Accompany the grilled meats with any side you like, from grilled veggies, guacamole, tortillas, or a beer. Eating here is a unique dining experience in Oaxaca City.

🍽 Oaxaca Foodie Guide | Add These Top Oaxaca Food Experiences to Your Oaxaca Itinerary

What to Eat in Oaxaca

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Oaxaca boasts its own unique and rich cuisine. Indulge in a typical Oaxacan dish, like a tlayuda , which is kind of like a Mexican pizza with grilled meat, Oaxacan cheese, refried beans, and all the delicious condiments. . Try at least one of the seven Oaxaca moles. Don’t miss snacking on a memela , a fried masa cake slathered in pig lard and topped with goodies like Oaxaca cheese and beans.

There are so many foods of Oaxaca, so book a food tour to best understand the typical cuisine. Eating as many Oaxaca dishes is one of the absolute best things to do in Oaxaca.

More Things to Add to Your Oaxaca Itinerary

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In the afternoon, sign up for the Free Walking Tour at 4:00 pm. If you have more time, here are some more things to do in Oaxaca.

Wander past the old aqueduct (start at the Plaza Cruz de Piedra) and the Xochimilco barrio
Spend some time in the hip Jalatlaco neighborhood
Enjoy a nieve, or a water-based ice cream, in the Plaza de la Danza

Oaxaca City Free Walking Tour

A free walking tour is a great way to get acquainted with the city. The local guides stop by many of the top places to see in Oaxaca and give a brief history. They also can recommend the best Oaxaca restaurants, explain the Oaxaca cuisine, and share local gems. Basically, they can share what to do in Oaxaca.

However, with an Oaxaca 3 day itinerary, you may wish to fill the afternoon with another tour option.

Alternative Oaxaca Tour Ideas

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✔ Take a food tour that dives deep into complex and unique Oaxacan cuisine like an Oaxaca Street Food Tour . There’s also this tour that deep dives into the Roots of Oaxaca Cuisine

✔ Roll up your sleeves and take an Oaxaca cooking class or combine a market tour with a cooking class

✔ Spend the afternoon sipping Mezcal from one of the city’s Mezcal bars, many provide samplings and tasting menus

✔ Take a Street Art Bike Tour through Oaxaca

End of Oaxaca Itinerary Day 1

After the walking tour, head over to Llano Park. The park comes alive as the sun starts to go down. Oftentimes you will see local families utilizing the space by riding bikes, flying kites, and eating street food. Many groups also exercise and practice traditional dance in the park.

Or maybe catch a sunset at one of the many Oaxaca rooftop bars and restaurants .

Day 2 | Oaxaca Itinerary

Today take one of the best day trips from Oaxaca, visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Monte Alban. Again, with limited time on a 3 day Oaxaca itinerary, opt for an organized tour. Most Monte Alban tours are at least 3 hours long.

Monte Alban | Monte Albán

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Monte Alban is a UNESCO-recognized site that was inhabited for over 1,500 by the three most prevalent Indigenous civilizations in the Oaxaca region: the Olmecs, Zapotecs, and Mixtecs. The impressive hilltop ruins were one of the most important cities in Mesoamerica. In its prime, Monte Alban was home to almost 35,000 people.

The sprawling Monte Alban ruins offer informative signboards with chances to visit tombs, wander ancient roads, and gaze at these unique pyramid structures. Climb up Platforma Sur to appreciate the best views of these incredible Oaxaca ruins.

Monte Alban is one of the most popular places to visit in Oaxaca and one of the best Oaxaca day trips.

Most Guided Tours DON’T include the Monte Alban entrance fee | Entrance Fee for Foreigners: 80 pesos ($4.50 USD)

If you’re interested in more cultural aspects it’s possible to include a visit to Monte Alban with local artisan villages. This full-day Monte Alban tour includes stops at Arrazola (known for alebrijes), Cuilapam (historical site) and San Bartolo Coyotepec (black pottery).

More Things to Do in Oaxaca on Day 2

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With more time on Day 2 you could visit some of these popular artisan villages near Oaxaca or spend the afternoon casually visiting more of the Oaxaca city center and barrios. Oaxaca has a fun and vibrant art scene. Culture can be found everywhere in the form of modern art galleries, street art, free museums, and street performers.

Nearby Half-Day Trips from Oaxaca to Artisan Villages

Again, to see as much as possible, utilize a driver or organized tour .

Santa María Atzompa | Artisan village known for its mostly green pottery. This village also has free hilltop ruins perched directly across from Monte Alban.
San Bartolo Coyotepec | Artisan village known for their black pottery
San Martín Tilcajete | Artisan village famous for their intricately hand-painted Alebrijes, or colorful “spirit guides” that are a mystical and creative part of Mexican folk art.

Free Museums in Oaxaca

MUFI (Museo De La Filatelia) | A museum that focuses on stamps, but also has modern art and rotating exhibits
Museo Textil de Oaxaca | Dig deep into the colorful textiles of Oaxaca
Multiple Art Galleries, many are free to enter

Splurge on a Nice Dinner

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There are many incredible Oaxaca restaurants. Some top Oaxaca restaurants include Casa Oaxaca, Ancestral, Los Danzantes, Pitiona, and Origen. Many offer set tasting menus, but reservations are highly recommended or required.

One of my favorite places to indulge in a tasting menu is Tika’aya (formerly Teocintle), a unique dining experience that showcases regional cuisine from the Mixteca region of Oaxaca. There are only a few tables, so it’s a super intimate and cozy place to eat in Oaxaca. Reservations are a must.

🍽 Oaxaca Foodie Guide | Where to Eat in Oaxaca, 60+ Best Oaxaca Restaurants, Cafes, Coffeeshops, & More

Day 3 | Oaxaca Itinerary

East Oaxaca Valley, Cerro Picacho, Valley of Oaxaca, Oaxaca to Mitla, Teotitlan del Valley, mountains, clouds

On day three of an Oaxaca Itinerary, spend it in the culturally rich East Oaxaca Valley .

Most Oaxaca tours visiting the East Oaxaca Valley will include a stop at Mitla, Hierve el Agua, and maybe a mezcal pit-stop. On most tours, admission into each site is NOT included in the tour prices. The standard tour duration for a full-day trip is around 9 hours.

Alternative Option

However, if you want to stay in Oaxaca City on your final day, visit the Jardín Etnobotánico de Oaxaca. You must visit with a guided tour. There are daily guided tours, but only one per day in English. The tours max out at 25 people, so you will have to cue early in line to snag a spot. No reservations are possible.

Spend the rest of the day enjoying Oaxaca City and visiting places you loved or missed.

Mitla | San Pablo Villa de Mitla

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Mitla is one of the six registered Oaxaca pueblos magicos , or magic villages. This village boasts the Mitla Archaeological Zone, a fusion of Zapotec and Mixtec cultures. This site is different from most Oaxaca ruins as it has unique mosaic patterns carved into the exterior of stucco buildings. The original name translates to “place of the dead,” so notice the many tombs. The Spanish conquistadors came and eventually built a church on top of this sacred site.

Mitla Archaeological Zone | Cost: $75 pesos ($4 USD)

➜ Here’s a half-day tour to Mitla from Oaxaca

Hierve el Agua

Hierve el Agua is the famous petrified waterfall in Oaxaca. The name literally translates to “boiling water,” and is one of the top things to do in Oaxaca. Check for sure that the petrified waterfall is open, since oftentimes it closes without much notice, due to turmoil between the communities and between the communities and the government.

Hierve el Agua Waterfall | Admission Fee: $50 pesos ($2.75 USD) | Verify that there are no road blockages or community disputes before booking a tour or visiting independently

➜ The most popular Oaxaca tour is to Hierve el Agua, the petrified waterfall

Final Night | Oaxaca 3 Day Itinerary

With 3 days, you will probably already begin planning your next trip to Oaxaca Mexico. Enjoy a rooftop bar like La Mezcalerita . Or, enjoy a mezcal at La Popular or the famed Sabina Sabe .

2 | Oaxaca Itinerary 5 Days

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With a 5 day Oaxaca Itinerary, simply slow down! You can utilize the above Oaxaca travel guide for 3 day. If you feel more comfortable, use the handy public bus system or shuttles to spots like Mitla and Monte Alban.

Day 4 | Oaxaca Itinerary

Take more of the day trips from Oaxaca to the artisan villages. Personally, the charm of Santa Maria Atzompa is a joy.

More Ideas for Easy & Quick Day Trips from Oaxaca

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San Agustin Etla | Village with hiking trails and the Centro de las Artes de San Agustín
Cuilapam de Guerrero | Village with the incomplete Ex Monastery of Santiago Apóstol
El Tule | Nearby Artisan village with the famous Tule Tree, artisan shops, and noteworthy El Milenario Restaurant serving typical Oaxaca Dishes
San Andrés Huayapam | Village with hiking trails, nature reserves, and the popular Luz de Luna Restaurant that also has superb cocktails

➯ This Ultimate Guide to Oaxaca State has detailed information on how to reach all of the above places via public transportation

Day 5 | Oaxaca Itinerary

On day 5, spend more time in the East Oaxaca Valley . Try to visit on a Sunday to witness one of the oldest continuous markets in Mesoamerica in Tlacolula.

Tlacolula de Matamoros

Tlacolula de Matamoros, or simply Tlacolua, boasts a truly authentic market. The village has been a trading hub throughout the Zapoteca empire. Today, the market is so large that street vendors overflow into the surrounding streets. Over 1,000 vendors are present on a weekly basis, some weeks even more.

In the market, don’t miss the alley of women selling goat barbacoa. The colorful corridor is arguably the best place to eat in the market. Many of the proud women chefs are eager to pass out free samples. Musicians entertain hungry visitors and play music, women walk the alley selling tortillas, and the tables are always full.

The Tlacolula Market is a must-visit place in Oaxaca, especially for visitors looking for some of the best Oaxaca food experiences .

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The Mercado de Tlacolula is busiest on Sunday, but is open every day of the week. Some visitors may prefer visiting on days with fewer crowds.

The village of Tlacolula has a large and lovely plaza with a glitzy decorated church. There’s also a small square that sells ice cream that houses plenty of outdoor tables for people-watching.

Teotitlan del Valle

One of the best places to visit in Oaxaca is the charming village of Teotitlan del Valle . Teotitlán del Valle is known for their textiles, but more specifically their artisan rugs made by hand with love. Make sure to stop in and visit at least one of the artisan workshops. The process of making the Zapotec textiles is an ancient weaving tradition that has been practiced for over 1,000 years.

Besides the artisan rugs, drop by Casa Viviana , where they make incredible beeswax candles from elaborate molds. There’s a bustling market and an informative Centro Cultural Comunitario Teotitlán del Valle . The main plaza in Teotitlan del Valle is cute and connects to the nearby charming streets.

A climb up the sacred Cerro Picacho mountain is a beautiful and worthwhile hiking trail in Oaxaca. The scenic trail offers stellar views of the East Oaxaca Valley. Make sure to purchase a ticket from the museum to access the trail and support the local community.

More Options for Day 5 Oaxaca Itinerary

✔ If you love ruins, stop at Yagul Archaeological Park and/or the Dainzu Archaeological Site. The Yagul caves are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and must be visited with a guide.

✔ Also located in the East Oaxaca Valley, the overlooked Dainzú ruins make a lovely place to watch the sunset.

✔ Visit the “Mezcal Capital of the World,” Santiago Matatlan Oaxaca. Most organized tours take you to the actual agave plant fields, and a Palenque, and include plenty of samples to understand the art and beauty of making Mezcal. This tour includes mezcal tasting and local artisan villages

✔ Hike in the Sierra North Mountains from the community of La Cumbre Ixtepeji. There are tours from Oaxaca to Ixtepeji

One Week in Oaxaca Mexico

Dainzu, Oaxaca ruins, pelota, ball field, grass, ruins, things to do in Oaxaca to Mitla

Have one week in Oaxaca? Lucky you! Take all of the above itineraries and slow down even more.

Take a full-day Mezcal tour in Santiago Matatlan. Visit some of the more “off the beaten path” markets of Oaxaca . Eat as much as you can from the best Oaxaca restaurants . Make sure to take an Oaxacan cooking class and a food tour.

More simply, spend some quality time falling in love with the magic of Oaxaca City.

Oaxaca Itinerary 10 Days

For something unique, break up the time in Oaxaca City and head to the underrated Mixteca region. Home to the Indigenous Mixtec people, this overlooked region has lovely villages, stunning nature, and beautiful landscapes with a hint of mysticism.

The gateway to the Mixteca region is Nochixtlán village, which is easily connected to Oaxaca with frequent collectivos.

How to Get to Nochixtlan from Oaxaca

Santiago Apoala Oaxaca

Santiago Apoala is a hidden gem in Oaxaca that boasts a waterfall, multiple hiking trails, and super-friendly people. The community runs a small tourist information center and simple cabañas to sleep at.

Pay the entrance fee of 50 pesos, which allows access to the waterfall trail, the twin canyon trail, and a breathtaking mirador trail that passes by the mythical Devil’s Cave.

➯ Detailed Oaxaca Travel Guide | How to Visit Santiago Apoala & Hiking Trails

More Villages in Mixteca Region

Tamazulapam del Progreso, things to do in mixteca oaxaca, church, best places to visit in oaxaca state

The villages of the Mixteca region are quaint and so lovely.

Tamazulapam del Progreso is another worthwhile Mixteca destination with a picturesque plaza, bustling market, vivid church, and sulfur springs. Soak in the pleasant natural pools or visit one of the “water parks.” Note that these pools are cold natural pools and not hot springs.

San Pedro y San Pablo Teposcolula is a pueblo magico in Oaxaca famed for its massive convent and open-air chapel. Santo Domingo Yanhuitlán also boasts an impressive ex-convent and museum.

➜ This full-day tour from Oaxaca includes three worthwhile stops in the Mixteca Region. Stops include: the Ex-Convento de Santo Domingo de Yanhuitlan, the diverse Geoparque Mixteca, and a stop at the Oaxaca pueblo magico San Pedro y San Pablo Teposcolula to visit the Ex-Convent

More Options for 10 Day Oaxaca Itinerary

✔ Spend some quality time in the Sierra Norte (North Mountains) hiking between the Pueblos Mancomunados. There are 8 small communities that offer local guides, guesthouses, and some of the best hiking trails in Oaxaca. There are also guided tours from Oaxaca

✔ Head to Sierra Sur and the gateway village of San Jose del Pacifico and dabble in Oaxaca Magic Mushrooms and sit in a traditional temazcal.

✔ Visit Huautla de Jiménez the home of the famous female shaman of Maria Sabina who reintroduced the power of magic mushrooms to the world in the 1960s. Celebrities and scholars alike from the Beatles to Walt Disney (rumored) came to Mexico to sit with this powerful medicine woman. Huautla de Jimenez is also a registered Oaxaca pueblo magico .

There are so many Oaxaca hotels, guesthouses, apartments, and hostels to choose from. Most visitors opt to stay in the Oaxaca historic center or in one of the barrios like Jalatlaco and Xochimilco. The above areas are all desirable since they are so walkable to all of the best things to do in Oaxaca.

Budget | Casa Montaña Oaxaca is a hidden gem oasis found just on the outskirts of Oaxaca. There are stunning rooftop views, clean spacious rooms, and self-sufficient apartments. Roci, the hostess goes above and beyond for her guests. Since it’s easily connected by bus, Casa Montaña is perfect for long stays in Oaxaca.
Budget | Azul Cielo Hostel is one of the most popular hostels in Oaxaca. Find large rooms, a nice garden space, friendly hosts, and breakfast included! The location is a few blocks from the hustle and bustle of Centro, but there’s a large kitchen and the place has a bohemian vibe.
Midrange | Hotel Oaxaca Real is one of the most popular hotels in Oaxaca due to its prime-time location, outdoor pool, and free parking. Hotel Oaxaca Real makes a perfect place to explore the many day trips from Oaxaca.
Luxury | Quinta Real Oaxaca stay in one of Oaxaca’s most beautiful buildings in the historical center of Oaxaca. This luxury accommodation in Oaxaca has it all from a pool, gym, gardens, and more.

➜ Find the best places to stay in Oaxaca

More Best Things to Do in Oaxaca Mexico | City to Sea 2 Week Oaxaca Itinerary

Zipolite Playa, Oaxaca beaches, viewpoint, tree, Pacific Ocean, beaches in Mexico, best places to visit in oaxaca state

The previous Oaxaca itinerary focuses on the best things to do in Oaxaca City and nearby day trips. The following Oaxaca itinerary is all about the best places to see in Oaxaca State .

This general two-week Oaxaca itinerary includes how to budget time to visit the Sierra Sur Mountain range and the coastal beach towns.

✈ Oaxaca Travel Tip | This +/- 2 week Oaxaca itinerary is best for those visitors spending 5 days in Oaxaca City

Add 2 – 3 Days for San Jose del Pacifico Oaxaca

San jose del pacifico oaxaca, sierra sur, things to do in oaxaca, 2 week oaxaca itinerary, sunset, mountains, trees, forest, clouds

San Jose del Pacifico is a small village in the Sierra Sur Oaxaca Mountains. This mountain village is becoming a popular place to visit in Oaxaca. Although little, this village packs in a lot of adventure.

San Jose del Pacifico is located in a cloud forest. The surrounding mountains offer plenty of miradors and viewpoints to appreciate the mystical landscape.

There are tons of hiking trails in San Jose del Pacifico. Many of the trails twist along rivers, through enchanting pine forests, and lead to small communities. Most afternoons, the picturesque mountains are engulfed in clouds, making the sunsets extra dramatic.

➜ Find the Best Places to Sleep in San Jose del Pacifico

While the hiking and tranquility of San Jose is a major draw, spiritual tourism is becoming more popular.

The mountains are an exceptional place to sit in a traditional temazcal, or sweat lodge. A temazcal is an ancient cleansing method that honors the four cardinal directions and our ancestors. Exiting a temazcal is compared to “exiting the womb,” and is sometimes referred to as a rebirthing ceremony.

San Jose del Pacifico Oaxaca, village, mountains, sierra sur, best places to visit in Oaxaca state

San Jose del Pacifico is a popular destination in Mexico to experience Oaxaca Magic Mushrooms. The best time to visit San Jose del Pacifico is during the rainy season, specifically August when the mushrooms are plentiful and abundant.

Those who haven’t “traveled into the astral plane” with psychedelics should opt to sit in an organized ceremony. These mushrooms are powerful and should be respected. Always ask a trusted source for mushrooms and check references on shaman services, sadly spiritual tourism can be exploited.

➯ Detailed Oaxaca Travel Guide | The Best Things to Do in San Jose del Pacifico Oaxaca

How to Get to San Jose del Pacifico from Oaxaca City

Collectivos run 24 hours from Oaxaca to San Jose del Pacifico. An overnight stop in San Jose del Pacifico can break up the long and twisty ride to the coastal town of Zipolite.

🚐 Oaxaca to San Jose del Pacifico Collectivos Logistics | Catch Líneas Unidas in the direction of Pochutla in Oaxaca here: Bustamante 601, Centro | Pochutla has multiple collectivos that depart frequently to San Jose del Pacifico 24 hours a day, every 30 minutes | One-Way Ticket: $180 pesos ($10 USD) | Duration: 3.5 hours

A popular place to sleep in San Jose del Pacifico is at the Cabañas Rancho Viejo cabins right outside of town.

Add 3 – 5 Days for Quaint Oaxaca Beach Towns

Playa San Agustinillo, San Agustinillo beach, cute oaxaca beach towns, ocean, hill, buildings, waves, things do in oaxaca state, sky, clouds, 2 week oaxaca itinerary

After relaxing in the mountains, head to the Pacific Coast and relax at one of the quaint Oaxaca beach towns . If coming via San Jose del Pacifico, you’ll end up in Zipolite.

Zipolite is known for being one of Mexico’s nude beaches. Don’t let that deter you, there’s a lot to see and do here. Enjoy the diverse and small beaches, eat at one of the seafood-inspired restaurants, or camp along the beach.

Be mindful that the Pacific coast is rugged and there are sometimes dangerous rip tides. Red flags often warn potential swimmers of unsafe swimming conditions.

punta comenta, sunset, mazunte oaxaca, rocks, beach, hill, clouds, sky, birds, waves, oaxaca beach towns

Nearby is Mazunte, another spectacular Oaxaca beach town. Mazunte has the stunning Punta Cometa and is the only Oaxaca “pueblo magico” on the beach. Personally, I love the Oaxaca coastline between Zipolite and Mazunte, so would opt to base in either.

➜ Find Places to Stay in Zipolite Oaxaca

➜ Find Places to Stay in Mazunte Oaxaca

South along the coast is Parque Nacional Huatulco with its many beaches. Farther north is Puerto Escondido, with endless beaches like the trendy La Punta that are filled with restaurants and bars. Puerto Escondido is more of a city than a quaint beach town but is a popular Oaxaca surf destination.

Puerto Escondido also offers lots of tour options.

From Puerto Escondido, it’s easy to access the rustic and chill Chacahua Beach. Lagunas de Chacahua is a must-visit place in Oaxaca if you have a little more time to laze at the beach.

How to Get to Zipolite from Oaxaca

🚐 Oaxaca to Zipolite Collectivos Logistics | Catch Líneas Unidas in the direction of Pochutla in Oaxaca here: Bustamante 601, Centro | Current Direct Departures to Zipolite : 5:00, 10:30, 13:30, 18:00, 23:15 | One-Way Ticket Cost: $360 pesos ($20 USD) | Duration: 7.5 hours | Check the most current schedule on FB

The Best Oaxaca Itinerary & Awesome Things to Do in Oaxaca City

oaxaca itinerary, fountain place, building, tree, things to do in oaxaca city, brick, oaxaca city

In conclusion, there are so many things to do in Oaxaca City. The perfect Oaxaca itinerary includes a mixture of wandering the colorful streets, indulging in the typical cuisine, and strolling through the vibrant markets. Don’t leave Oaxaca without a stop at the famed archaeological site of Monte Alban or without visiting at least one of the culturally rich artisan villages.

While it’s possible to spend three days in Oaxaca, more time is definitely better. To get a taste of the diversity of Oaxaca State, plan for at least 2 weeks. Two weeks in Oaxaca gives ample time to discover the mystical mountain villages and unwind at sleepy beach towns along the rugged Pacific coast.

No matter how many days you spend in Oaxaca, I can guarantee that before you leave, you will already be planning your return. The magic of Oaxaca has a way to pull you back.

Have you been to Oaxaca Mexico? Did you use this Oaxaca Itinerary? Is there something you would add-on to this Oaxaca itinerary that you loved? Let me know in the comments below!

Disclaimer: There’s a chance this post contains affiliate links, and I receive a small (but grateful) portion of the sale. There’s no extra cost to you, and I only promote things that I use and love.

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Hey, my name is Megs! I'm an adventure-seeking, wanna-be storyteller, with a wandering soul who is smitten with the diversity of this beautiful world. You can find me hiking in the mountains, eating delicious food, and seeking out the most authentic travel experiences possible. Experiences and memories are my most prized possessions. I love to slow travel and have been nomadic for over 12 years.

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10 comments.

Oaxaca will definitely be on my list when I visit Mexico. I love the historic streets and attractions you can visit. Thanks for this really detailed guide!

You’re welcome! Enjoy 🇲🇽

Wow Oaxaca looks amazing – I heard of it but never thought it would be so beautiful. Love your pics too Megs!

Thanks so much Amina 💚 It’s such a photogenic place that the photos are naturally beautiful ☺️

It’s been ten years since I was last in Oaxaca and I am SERIOUSLY missing the mole! Next time I’m going to take a proper cooking class so I can learn to recreate those flavors back at home in Canada!

Yes, the food is so fantastic and complex! I am missing Chilaquiles for breakfast 😋

Such a well-written guide, I love that you break it down into different itineraries depending on how much time you have, so helpful. I’m glad I now know how to pronounce Oaxaca and that I’ve been saying it wrong before! Beautiful images, it’s definitely somewhere I would like to consider visiting after this post. Thanks!

Thanks so much Jen! I definitely was said it wrong before I got there, too 🙃 I hope you can get there, it’s a magical place ✨

Really helpful guide – thanks 🙂

You’re Welcome! Enjoy Oaxaca ✨

26 Best Things To Do In Oaxaca, Mexico in 2024

Written By: Sara Oprasic

Published On: March 25, 2024

Oaxaca isn’t at the top of most people’s Mexico travel itineraries, but it should be. Located in the south of Mexico, close the Pacific Ocean, Oaxaca is a city where ancient traditions flawlessly blend with modern life. It’s a place where you can discover indigenous Mexican culture by touring ancient ruins and visiting some of the best natural landmarks in Mexico.

Oaxaca is also one of Mexico’s safest cities, making it an excellent destination for first-timers in the country. Especially because it features so many fun and interesting things to do that you’ll never want to leave. Read more: Is Mexico City Safe To Visit? Travel Warnings And Safety Tips

And if it’s not the Zapotec ruins or the local art museums that make you fall in love with the city, it will be the food . From the best local markets to popular Mezcal distilleries, here are all the best things to do in Oaxaca, Mexico!

Best of Oaxaca Quick Guide

Must See: Monte Alban, Zocalo, Hierve el Agua, The Church and Convent of Santo Domingo de Guzmán, Oaxaca markets, Museo Rufino Tamayo, Yagul
Where To Stay : Las Mariposas Hotel & Studios , Hotel Parador de Alcalá, Hotel Siglo XVII Art Gallery
Fun To Do: Cooking class, Mezcal tastings, Day of the Dead festival, Benito Juarez National Park
Day Trips : Mitla, Puerto Escondido, Artisanal towns
Must Try Foods: Mole, Chocolate, Tlayudas, Memelas, Tamales Oaxaqueños – Check out our guide to The Best Mexican Dishes

Table of Contents

Best Things To Do In Oaxaca

The streets of Oaxaca are teeming with history and culture, and it feels like there’s something new to discover at every corner. Whether it’s local craft shops or relics from a different era, the city never fails to impress. Below are some of my favorite attractions in this historic gem.

1. Oaxaca City Center Walking Tour

Kick off your stay in this Mexican city with a classic walking tour of all the landmarks in the heart of Oaxaca. It’s the best way of getting acquainted with the city’s top sights, and a must if this is your first time here.

Walking tours of Oaxaca usually take 2-3 hours, depending on which one you book. Some of the places that are included in all tours of Oaxaca are the main city square of Zócalo, Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzman, the Benito Juarez monument at Parque Juarez El Llano, and a few others.

A stroll down Macedonio Alcala is the highlight of any walking tour of Oaxaca. The historic cobblestone street is lined with art galleries and restaurants and boasts colorful buildings, vibrant street art, and several craft markets.

Practical Information: Walking tours of central Oaxaca normally last for 2-3 hours and cost $25-40.

2. Marvel at The Gilded Interior of Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzmán

things to do in Oaxaca Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzmán

Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzmán is one of Oaxaca’s most famous landmarks. The monumental church is located in the heart of the city, and it is included in most walking tours of Oaxaca.

It’s an interesting-looking building, but it doesn’t appear that special on the outside. That is until you pass through the gates and glimpse the lavish interior. The walls and ceiling are adorned with beautiful paintings, and much of the temple interior is gilded. The altar is almost entirely covered with gold, and it looks absolutely magnificent.

Practical Information: Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzmán is open from 9 AM to 7 PM, Monday through Friday. Entrance to the church is free of charge.

3. Attend a Traditional Oaxaca Cooking Class

Mexico is an excellent destination for culinary tours and experiences. I’m a little biased because I love Mexican food, but Oaxacan cuisine is some of the country’s best. It’s known for Mole, the traditional Oaxacan sauce made with chiles. But there are seven classic versions of Mole, and each is served with a different dish.

Book a cooking class in Oaxaca, and you’ll learn how to make Mole, empanadas, arroz con leche, and other Mexican dishes using traditional methods. Tortillas,and fried plantain are some of the foods you can learn how to make, but you can choose your favorites.

After you’ve gotten your hands dirty and learned how to prepare some of the best Oaxacan foods, you’ll get to devour the fruits of your labor. I won’t lie, that’s my favorite part of any cooking class.

Practical Information: Cooking classes in Oaxaca usually last 4-6 hours and cost $100-150.

4. Check Out The Exhibit at The Museum of Cultures of Oaxaca

things to do in Oaxaca Museum of Cultures of Oaxaca

The majestic Museum of Cultures of Oaxaca is one of the city’s most important museums for old Zapotec artifacts. It’s located on former monastery grounds, adjacent to the Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzmán.

With two floors of exhibits, the museum offers a lot to explore. Head upstairs to see the exhibit of treasures discovered at Monte Alban, as it’s a highlight of the collection. The artifacts displayed include wooden figurines, traditional Zapotec jewelry, handmade weapon holsters, and much more.

Even the architecture of the museum building is a work of art and warrants paying attention to the walls and ceilings as you explore the different areas of the building. You can even glimpse the Ethnobotanical Garden from some of the museum rooms.

Practical Information: The Museum of Cultures Oaxaca is open from 10 AM to 5 PM, Tuesday through Friday. The entrance fee is 90 pesos.

5. See The Tule Tree

I know, driving to a nearby town just to look at a tree sounds weird, but bear with me for a moment. The Tree of Tule is a Montezuma cypress tree over 1,400 years old. It’s also the widest tree in the world with an estimated circumference of approximately 42 meters.

The Tule Tree is so big that it was once considered multiple trees. But it was DNA tested (I know!), and the tests confirmed that it’s just one massive tree. Because of its broad crown, its height is almost impossible to measure accurately. Laser measurements from 2005 estimate the tree’s height to 35.4 meters.

When you’re done admiring this magnificent natural landmark, take the time to explore Santa María del Tule. It might not have many tourist attractions, but it is home to some excellent Mexican restaurants. I recommend Casa Embajador de Oaxaca for its delicious food and extravagant decorations. This tour is a great way to see the Tule Tree and other highlights of the area.

Practical Information: Santa María del Tule is a 20-minute drive from the city center of Oaxaca. The town is on the way if you’re traveling to Mitla.

6. Oaxaca Textile Museum

The Oaxaca Textile Museum is a charming little museum you can easily visit during a walking tour of the city center. It’s only a couple of minutes from the historic Zocalo square, and it’s free to enter.

Pop inside to see Oaxacan textiles, traditional clothing, and whatever temporary exhibit is displayed at the moment. The museum has a small collection and it shouldn’t take you more than 20 minutes to tour the place.

Practical Information : The Oaxaca Textile Museum has a free admission. It’s open from 10 AM to 8 PM.

7. Ancient History at Monte Alban

Monte Alban is the most important archeological site in Oaxaca. If you have time for just one historic landmark in Mexico, make it this one. It’s just a 20-minute drive from central Oaxaca and is interesting enough to keep you busy for the better part of the day.

I highly recommend visiting the area with a local guide t o better understand the site’s significance. Monte Alban served as the Zapotec capital from 500 BCE to 800 CE and would later become an important center for the Mixtec as well.

This historic site has survived the rise and fall of multiple Mesoamerican civilizations and offers invaluable insight into their history and heritages. Also, the views from the complex are excellent; you can see almost all of Oaxaca from here, which puts into perspective just how big the city is.

Practical Information: Monte Alban is open from 10 AM to 4 PM. The admission fee is 95 pesos.

8. Tour Jardín Etnobotánico de Oaxaca

things to do in Oaxaca Jardín Etnobotánico de Oaxaca

The Ethnobotanical Garden of Oaxaca is located behind the Santo Domingo de Guzmán church. With a curated collection of plants native to Oaxaca, it’s a great place to visit if you want to escape the city streets for a little while.

Step inside the garden and you’ll feel like you’ve walked right into a jungle, what with all the lush trees and cacti. Visitors can explore the garden only on guided tours, which take place four times a day. It’s important to note that tours in English take place only at 11 PM and are double the cost of tours in Spanish.

Practical Information : The Ethnobotanical Garden of Oaxaca is open for visitors from 10 AM to 5 PM. Tours in Spanish are 50 pesos but tours in English are 100 pesos per participant.

9. Discover Local Artists at The Museum of Oaxacan Painters

things to do in oaxaca museum of oaxacan painters

The Museum of Oaxacan Painters is probably the best free museum in the city. It boasts a collection of works from local graphic artists, and it’s one of the best places to visit if you want to discover authentic Oaxacan art.

Amazing paintings are exhibited at the museum, but also colorful figurines and sculptures. The exhibit often changes, so there’s merit in returning to this museum even if you’ve visited it previously.

Practical Information: The Museum of Oaxacan Painters is open from 10 AM to 6 PM. Entrance to the museum is free of charge, and cash donations are encouraged.

10. Souvenir Shopping at The Local Markets

The markets in Oaxaca are primarily known for food and spices, but also great for trinkets and souvenirs. Featuring countless food stalls, fresh groceries, spices, and all sorts of local handicrafts, they’re by far the best place if you want to mingle with locals and spend your money on unique Mexican items.

Mercado Benito Juárez and Mercado 20 de Noviembre are the two main local markets in Oaxaca. The markets are across the street from one another, so you can easily tour both in a single afternoon. I recommend coming here hungry and exploring the wide selection of local Oaxacan food.

Insider Tip: Vendors at the local markets usually try to upcharge their items for tourists. Learn some Spanish so you can get better deals when shopping in Oaxaca.

Practical Information: Mercado Benito Juárez is open from 9 AM to 5 PM on work days. Mercado 20 de Noviembre is open every day from 7 AM to 7 PM. Entrance to both markets is free of charge.

11. Try (To Make) Oaxacan Hot Chocolate

Chocolate has a very long tradition in Oaxaca. Cacao beans have been grown in this state for centuries, and Oaxaca is one of the country’s largest chocolate producers.

Exploring the connection between cacao and Oaxaca is one of the best things about the trip to the state. Joining a chocolate-making experience is a great way of understanding more about the local traditions while also learning a new skill. And at the end of the class, you can eat the chocolates you’ve created, which is the best part.

You don’t have to get your hands dirty if you don’t want to. Just order a delicious hot chocolate at a classic Oaxacan restaurant, and while you’re at it try mole with cacao. It’s the state’s most famous dish.

Practical Information: Hot chocolate is served in all Oaxacan restaurants and cafes. Chocolate-making classes usually last for 2-3 hours.

12. Discover The Immense Beauty of Hierve el Agua

Hierve el Agua is one of the best natural landmarks you can discover in Mexico. The geological site is famous for rock formations that look just like waterfalls. It’s an impressive site that might just be the highlight of your trip to Oaxaca.

In addition to the petrified waterfalls, the nature preserve also features springs and pools. You can swim in the pools, just keep in mind that the water is quite cold. The views of the surrounding landscapes are wonderful and a big reason why so many people visit the place.

Insider Tip: Hierve el Agua can get very crowded during the day when the tourist buses arrive. Visit the place later in the afternoon (4-5 PM), for smaller crowds, ideally after you’ve toured Mitla.

Practical Information: The entrance fee for Hierve el Agua is 50 pesost. The nature preserve is roughly 15 kilometers from Mitla and 65 kilometers from Oaxaca. You can also take this guided tour to see the waterfalls and other popular destinations near Oaxaca.

13. Visit an Artisinal Town

Oaxaca State is home to many small artisanal towns and villages. All those colorful items you see at the city’s markets are made in those towns, and you can go straight to the source for an even better selection of vibrant local handicrafts. Many artists also hold workshops where you can learn about their craft and see if you’d be any good at it.

Teotitlán del Valle and Santo Tomás Jalieza are best known for handmade rugs and textiles, while San Antonino Castillo Velasco artisans create gorgeous embroidered pieces. San Bartolo Coyotepec and Santa María Atzompa are famous for handmade black and green pottery, respectively. And San Martín Tilcajete is renowned for alebrijes, the colorful wooden figurines.

Practical Information: Santa María Atzompa is the closest artisanal town to Oaxaca (20-minute drive or 1-hour bus ride).

14. Stop By A Mezcal Distillery

things to do in oaxaca mezcal distillery

Mezcal has been produced in Oaxaca for centuries. The state is the largest producer of the drink, and more than 90% of Mezcal sold in the world comes from here. I really don’t think it counts if you visited Oaxaca if you didn’t at least try it once!

The best way to learn about Mezcal in Oaxaca is to tour a distillery. They’re abundant in the small towns and villages just outside the city and are often included in tours of Mitla, Hierve el Agua, and other famous landmarks near Oaxaca. The distilleries in Santiago Matatlan are the leading in the state, and they’re only a short detour from Mitla.

Some of the best Mezcal tours in Oaxaca start in agave fields and end with delicious tastings. Learn about every step of Mezcal production while trying all the different iterations of the local drink. Just don’t do it on an empty stomach!

Practical Information: Santiago Matatlan is 10 minutes from Mitla and 55 minutes from Oaxaca City.

15. Hiking at Benito Juarez National Park

Benito Juarez National Park is a 10-minute taxi drive from downtown Oaxaca. It’s the best destination near the city for hiking, mountain biking, and endless panoramic views. If you want to escape the crowded streets of Oaxaca and spend some time in nature, this is one of the best destinations close to the city.

The park also offers the opportunity to spot some native Oaxacan flora and fauna. The hiking trails are marked and perfectly safe, and will take you to some fabulous viewpoints. There’s also a playground for children here, and several interesting sculptures are scattered throughout the national park.

Practical Information: Benito Juarez National Park is open from 8 AM to 6 PM. The entrance fee is 20 pesos.

16. Zapotec Ruins at Yagul

Yagul is another excellent archeological site in Oaxaca. The place is not to be missed if you’re on a mission to uncover all the best historic landmarks of this Mexican state. Also, Yagul is on the way when driving from Oaxaca towards Mitla or Hierve el Agua, so you can easily visit on the same day as one of the other attractions.

This archaeological site is less famous than Monte Alban and Mitla, so it usually features much smaller crowds. Come here to discover the remnants of a former Zapotec city-state; if you’re lucky, you might have the entire place to yourself.

Practical Information: The Yagul archaeological site is open from 10 AM to 4 PM. The entrance fee is 95 pesos.

17. Mitla Archeological Ruins

The archeological site of Mitla is one of the best historic attractions near Oaxaca de Juarez. It’s approximately an hour’s drive from the city center, and you can combine this day trip with visits to other popular landmarks in the area as you’ll pass close to several notable sights.

Mitla is a top destination in Mexico for Zapotec and Mixtec ruins, second in importance only to Monte Alban. The name “Mitla” is Nahuatl language and it roughly translates to “Place of the Dead”, indicating the site’s function as a sacred burial ground. Although it was first established by the Zapotec, the influence of Mixtec culture is evident in the area.

The UNESCO World Heritage Site is known for ancient tombs and geometric mosaics that adorn most of the complex. The blend of Zapoted and Mixtec architectural styles is a wonderful sight and makes this area one of the best for understanding the culture of ancient Oaxaca. I recommend doing a guided tour of the complex so you can learn a lot about Mitla’s history and significance.

Practical Information: Mitla is approximately an hour’s drive from central Oaxaca. The admission fee to the site is 80 pesos.

18. Day Trip to Puerto Escondido

Puerto Escondido is a beach town in southern Mexico and a very popular destination for a seaside vacation. If you have a car in Oaxaca, you can drive to this charming town in about three hours and enjoy a day on the beach.

The town is known for fabulous resort hotels, vast sandy beaches, and a buzzing nightlife. And because it’s pretty much a resort town, it’s a very safe destination in Mexico. Come here for swimming and sunbathing during the day, and dancing and cocktails at night.

Practical Information: This beach town is roughly a three-hour drive from Oaxaca. Buses take 9-10 hours to travel between the two towns on average. Local flights are also available.

19. Partake in Day Of The Dead Festivities

oaxaca things to do day of the dead fetival

The Day of The Dead festival is one of the most important in Mexican culture. It’s a big event in every city in Mexico , and Oaxaca is no exception. The locals build altars, visit cemeteries, and pay respects to the deceased, whose spirits are believed to return home to spend time with their families.

Day of the Dead is celebrated with parades, street performances, and music shows. Locals don colorful costumes as they take to the streets, and celebrations last well into the wee hours of the morning.

Because the festival lasts for only two days, you’ll have to plan your trip around it if you really want to attend. Remember that Oaxaca is jam-packed during Dia de Los Muertos and hotels are booked out months before the festival.

Practical Information: The Day of The Dead Festival begins on the eve of October 31st and lasts until the 2nd of November.

20. Sensory Overload at Tlacolula Sunday Market

Every Sunday, vendors from all over the state flock to Tlacolula for the weekly farmer’s market. It’s about 45 minutes outside Oaxaca city and a great place for souvenir shopping.

Oaxaca state is known for its many artisanal towns that produce unique handicrafts. The artisans bring all their latest and greatest creations to the Sunday market, which is one of the biggest in the state.

If you’re not able to visit the individual towns and villages, this is the next best thing. Shop for rugs, pottery, and alebrije, but also for fresh spices and cured meats. Street food vendors are also at the Sunday market, offering all the best Oaxacan local dishes. For food, shopping, and a fun time with the locals, this is one of the best things to do near Oaxaca.

Practical Information: Taxis, buses, and colectivo (shared cars) can take you from Oaxaca to Tlacolula. Expect to spend 30-45 pesos for a ride in a bus or colectivo, but up to 300 pesos for a private taxi transfer, depending on your haggling skills.

21. Snorkeling at Parque Nacional Huatulco

oaxaca things to do Parque Nacional Huatulco

Parque Nacional Huatulco is a wildlife preserve on the southern coast of Mexico. If you’re staying in Oaxaca for a while, consider coming here for two or three days. It’s an excellent destination for a beach getaway, with sandy beaches, hiking trails, and coral reefs. But it’s also four and a half hours from Oaxaca City, so not the easiest place to visit if you have limited time in Mexico.

Lounge on the pristine beaches and swim in the crystal clear waters. Most beaches are in secluded bays and the waters are pretty calm. Snorkeling is also very popular in the park thanks to the coral reefs that are teeming with marine life. Private and shared snorkeling tours are available and the latter is a great way to save money and meet other travelers with similar interests.

Practical Information: Parque Nacional Huatulco is roughly four and a half hours from Oaxaca. Admission to the park is free of charge.

22. More Ancient Ruins at Atzompa Archeological Site

If you can’t get enough Zapotec ruins in Oaxaca, the Aztompa archaeological site is another historic place to add to your itinerary. Located on a hill just a 20-minute drive from central Oaxaca, it’s a place you can easily visit on quick day tours. Santa María Atzompa is at the foothill of Aztompa, and you can tour both destinations in a few hours.

The ruins at this site are similar to those at Mount Alban, but with one major difference – Aztompa is much smaller and attracts fewer crowds. This place is practically deserted compared to Mount Alban, and it’s a great destination for travelers who want to discover Zapotec ruins but without the crowds that are common in the more famous areas.

Practical Information: Atzompa Archeological Site is roughly a 20-minute drive from downtown Oaxaca. Admission to the site is free of charge.

23. Museo de Sitio Casa Juárez

Museo de Sitio Casa Juárez will be interesting for some, and utterly boring for others. If you’re generally interested in history and politics, try to squeeze a tour of the museum into your itinerary. But if that’s not something that interests you very much, feel free to skip this museum.

It’s dedicated to Benito Juarez, the first and only indigenous Zapotec president of Mexico. The museum is located in his former house, and it features period furnishings and interesting artworks. Visitors can also tour the small but charming garden and gain some insight into what life was like in Oaxaca more than 150 years ago.

Practical Information: Museo de Sitio Casa Juárez is open from 9 AM to 6 PM every day except Monday. The admission fee is 70 pesos.

25. Visit Basílica de Nuestra Señora de la Soledad

Basílica de Nuestra Señora de la Soledad (Basilica of Our Lady of Solitude) is another grand church in Oaxaca city. Dating back to the late 17th century, the basilica is dedicated to the patron saint of Oaxaca. The church is off the beaten path and not too popular with tourists, so you shouldn’t encounter large crowds during the visit.

It features opulent interior decorations, the best of which is a Baroque pipe organ. The walls are adorned with dazzling artworks, including sculptures, paintings, and stained glass windows.

Practical Information: The Basílica de Nuestra Señora de la Soledad is 10 minutes from the main city square and entrance is free of charge.

26. The Ex-Monastery of Santiago Apóstol

oaxaca ay trips ex monastery of santiago apostol

Located just half an hour south of Oaxaca, the Ex-Monastery of Santiago Apóstol is an architectural marvel worth visiting. It boasts a blend of Renaissance, Plateresque, Gothic, and Mudéjar styles, which work incredibly well together at this mesmerizing place.

The complex features multiple monastery buildings, an unfinished basilica, a spacious courtyard, and a church. Roam around the grounds and pay attention to the details of Mudéjar decorations. Don’t forget to examine the lovely murals, which seamlessly blend indigenous Mexican mythology with Roman Catholic iconography.

Practical Information : The Ex-Monastery of Santiago Apóstol is open from 10 AM to 5 PM. Admission is 75 pesos.

24. Discover Pre-Hispanic Art at Museo Rufino Tamayo

The Rufino Tamayo Museum of Pre-Hispanic Art is a popular attraction among art lovers who wish to gain a deeper understanding of local culture. It’s located in the heart of Oaxaca, just five minutes from Zocalo.

The museum houses the personal collection of Olga and Rufino Tamayo. One of the main reasons why they wanted to open a museum was to prevent the illegal sale of these artifacts on the black market.

Each of the pieces exhibited here offers insight into the culture of the indigenous people in Mexico. The museum’s five rooms house more than 1,000 artifacts, and the entire place can be toured in under an hour.

Practical Information: The Rufino Tamayo Museum is open from 10 AM to 5 PM, Wednesday through Monday. The entrance is free of charge.

Frequently Asked Questions

best things to do in oaxaca Hierve el Agua

How many days do you need in Oaxaca?

You need at least four days to explore Oaxaca and its surroundings thoroughly. 2-3 days are enough for the top sights in the city limits but allow for 1-2 days for day trips for important landmarks west and south of the city.

What’s the best time to go to Oaxaca?

The best time to go to Oaxaca is between April and November because this is the dry season in Oaxaca. The city is especially popular at the beginning of November when the Día De Los Muertos festival takes place. It is also one of the best places to celebrate Christmas in Mexico.

What food is Oaxaca known for?

Oaxaca is famous for it delicious food but the most famous ones are mole, chocolate, and tlayudas. Mezcal and hot chocolate are Oaxaca’s best drinks.

Is it safe to travel to Oaxaca right now?

Yes, it’s safe to travel to Oaxaca if you take all the standard precautions. Oaxaca is one of the safest places in Mexico and generally one of the best tourist destinations.

Tips And Information For Visiting Oaxaca

Best Time To Visit

The best time to visit Oaxaca de Juarez is in late spring or early fall. The city is most popular from April to November, and many tourists make it a point to come to the Mexican city for the Day of the Dead festival, which takes place at the start of November. This is the most popular time to be in Oaxaca, which also translates to large crowds.

If you want to go when there aren’t as many tourists around, consider traveling between April and June. It’s the start of the rainy season in the city, and the crowds are generally much smaller.

Getting There

If you can, try to fly to Oaxaca International Airport. It’s the closest airport to Oaxaca City, just a 20-minute drive from the center. It’s serviced only by airlines from North America and Latin America, with direct flights from the Mexico City airport.

Taxis are available at the airport and can transport you into town for approximately 395 pesos ($25). You can haggle with the taxi drivers and it’s generally best to agree on a price before the ride.

Getting Around

Walking is the best way of getting around central Oaxaca. You can visit most tourist attractions in the heart of the city on foot, but you’ll need to rely on a different mode of public transport to visit the landmarks that lie outside of Oaxaca City. Buses run to popular tourist destinations but they’re not reliable. Also, a 20-minute drive equates to a 2-hour bus drive, so I don’t recommend relying on the bus if you’re trying to be efficient.

Consider getting a rental car if you’ve traveled to Mexico previously and you know what to expect on the road. Otherwise, it might be more hassle than it’s worth. The roads are not in the best condition and the traffic can be a nightmare, especially in the central parts of the city. Having a car is great for driving to places like Mitla, but keep in mind that you can just as easily book tours and let someone else figure out the transportation.

How Much Time Do You Need

You need at least four days in Oaxaca for a proper tour of the city. There’s a lot to do and see in the city and it takes at least 2-3 days to visit all the notable buildings and landmarks in the Oaxaca city center. The rest of the trip can be spent touring historic landmarks and archaeological sites throughout the state.

If you can plan for an even longer trip, you could include a short stay on the coast. Spend a night or two in the Huatulco National Park to end your trip to Mexico with a relaxed beach vacation.

Safety in Oaxaca City

Oaxaca is one of the safest cities in Mexico, and it’s generally a great destination for tourists. The most common crimes are petty theft and pickpocketing, which could be said for virtually any other major city in the world. If you take all the standard precautions, you shouldn’t have any negative experiences while you’re in Oaxaca.

And what do I mean by standard precautions? Don’t wear flashy jewelry and designer clothes and always keep an eye on your valuables. Wear a money bag under your t-shirt or a crossbody bag that you’ll always keep one hand on. Be extra careful in crowded areas, and never flash wads of cash. Also, whatever you do don’t go to the observatory. It’s a hotspot for muggings at knifepoint, and tourists should stay far away.

Where To Stay In Oaxaca

Centro is the best neighborhood for first-time visitors in the city. All the popular tourist attractions will be a short walk from the hotel, as well as the city’s best bars and restaurants. Staying in Centro is particularly great for trips during the Day of the Dead festival when the streets of Oaxaca are particularly crowded, and the traffic becomes a nightmare. Here are some of the best hotels in Oaxaca for all budgets:

Las Mariposas Hotel & Studios is an affordable hotel just five minutes from the heart of Oaxaca.
Hotel Parador de Alcalá is a four-star hotel in the city center with a nice outdoor pool.
Hotel Siglo XVII Art Gallery is a premium five-star hotel just minutes from Zocalo Square.

So now that you know all of the incredible attractions, outdoor adventures and about the Oaxacan Culture make sure to add Oaxaca to your Mexico itinerary, you will find it is worth going a little off the beaten path for lot of reward.

About Sara Oprasic

Sara loves writing about travel as much as she loves traveling. In her spare time, she enjoys reading, spending time with her cats, and crossing items off her bucket list. She’s yet to cross off Japan, Tromsø, and Hogsmeade. You can see what she’s up to on her Instagram Page

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31 Best Places to Visit in Oaxaca Mexico in 2024

Wondering, What is there to do in Oaxaca?

You’ve come to the right place, because this article highlights the 31 best places to visit in Oaxaca state .

The list includes the best things to do in Oaxaca City, the best Oaxaca beach towns and mountain villages, and some unique Oaxaca hidden gems.

The best way to see everything is by renting a car in Oaxaca and driving, as Oaxaca public transportation in rural areas can be inefficient; though it’s still doable.

No matter how you choose to see the sites, let’s get to this list of the top places to visit in Oaxaca, Mexico.

Best Places to Visit in Oaxaca Mexico

1. hierve el agua waterfall.

💧 Is Hierve el Agua open?

Yes — Hierve el Agua reopened to the public in October 2021 after being closed for about 1.5 years. Head to Hierve el Agua Oaxaca Mexico: Ultimate Visitor’s Guide for more info.

Located about 45 miles from Oaxaca City, is perhaps Oaxaca’s most famous natural wonder — Hierve el Agua , which means boiling water.

The mineral pools are the main attractions and most photographed things here, but don’t miss the “cascadas” (waterfalls).

Cascadas is in quotes because there are two cliff faces at Hierve el Agua that look like waterfalls, though they aren’t.

Rather, the two cliff are covered in calcified mineral deposits, which just so happen to look like falling water.

You can see the waterfalls from afar from at the thermal pools, or you can hike down for a closer look at these unique rock formations.

best HIERVE EL AGUA TOURS in Oaxaca

The easiest way to experience Hierve el Agua? On a tour of Hierve el Agua , of course!

Check out the great, and varied, tours of Hierve el Agua below, ranging from half- and full-day trips to one of the best Oaxaca places to visit.

2. Monte Alban Ruins

Located about 30 minutes outside of the Oaxaca City Center, Monte Alban is the most-visited of all archeological sites and ancient ruins in Oaxaca Mexico.

It is among the best pyramids and ruins in Mexico , and a Oaxaca must see for all visitors.

You can visit on your own, but tours of Monte Alban means having a guide explain all the ways this site is so important — and there are many.

If you’re visiting on your own, arrive early to beat the crowds and the midday sun; Monte Albán opens at 8am.

Things to do at Monte Alban Oaxaca Ruins

stone sculptures at monte alban oaxaca ruins called Los Danzantes

There’s a lot to see at Monte Alban, and it’s a pretty large site.

Plan for at least 2-3 hours if you want to see everything, including Los Danzantes (the most famous artifacts found at the site), the Ball Court , El Palacio (The Palace), the Observatory , and more.

When visiting, remember to wear a hat, eco-friendly sunscreen , sunglasses and comfy shoes.

Don’t forget to bring your Water-To-Go Bottle , which filters your water so you don’t get sick in Mexico, and keeps you hydrated. ▶︎ Use code SOLO15 for 15% OFF your order.

Best Monte alban tours in Oaxaca

3. san pablo villa de mitla (oaxaca pueblo magico).

After Monte Alban, Oaxaca’s second most important archaeological site is in San Pablo Villa de Mitla, which is usually just called Mitla. The town of Mitla is one of the Oaxaca pueblos magicos , which means magic towns.

Mitla is also one of a Mexico UNESCO World Heritage Site; it shares the spot with the Prehistoric Caves of Yagul . As Mitla is easy to access, and the caves are not, most tours and visitors only go to the Mitla archeological site.

Mitla Ruins

Unlike most Mexico ruins sites, there aren’t large pyramids and temples at Mitla. Rather, this holy Zapotec site has smaller buildings with intricately-carved geometric patterns and designs.

For this reason, it’s one of the most visually unique archeological sites in Oaxaca.

Town of Mitla Oaxaca

Besides the ruins, there’s also the town itself.

Mitla is a small pueblo, but it’s fun to visit. There are colorful mercados (markets) and street vendors selling everything from fresh fruit and nieves (sorbet), to locally-made arts and handicrafts.

Best Mitla Oaxaca tours

4. yagul ruins in oaxaca.

yagul ruins in oaxaca mexico | best places to visit in oaxaca

Yagul Archeological Site is a must see if you’re someone fascinated by the ancient ruins in Mexico . While not as famous as some other sites, like Chichen Itza in Yucatan or Teotihuacan near Mexico City, Yagul is worth checking out.

It is located only about 10 minutes by car from Mitla Ruins. If you’re renting a car in Oaxaca , you can combine these two for best day trips from Oaxaca City.

Want to visit more of the off the beaten path Oaxaca Ruins? Check out Dainzu Ruins, Zaachila Ruins and Atzompa Ruins.

Yagul Ruins are known locally as the pueblo viejo, meaning old town. What you’ll see at these ruins are a series of buildings that almost look like an ancient home.

They were built from about AD 750 to AD 950 by the Zapotec of Oaxaca.

Things to see at Yagul Archeological Site

ball courts at Yagul Ruins Oaxaca Mexico

If you want to see Zapotec Ruins without the crowds, like you will have at Monte Alban, then head to Yagul.

When you arrive, don’t miss the main buildings and structures: Patio 4 , the Underground Tombs , and the Palacio de los Seis Patios (Palace of the Six Patios).

There’s also the Juego de Pelota (Ball Court), which is the second largest ball court ever discovered in Mesoamerica; the largest is at Chichén Itzá Mayan Ruins in Yucatan .

For the best views of the Yagul site, climb up to the top of the Fortaleza (Fortress).

5. Oaxaca City Historic Center & Zócalo

colorful buildngs in centro historico, downtown oaxaca city

While it may just look like a beautiful colonial city now, Oaxaca City and Centro de Oaxaca (Downtown Oaxaca), dates back to 1529 when it was originally occupied by the native Oaxaca Zapotec people .

Today, it is a mix of old and new. Out of the hundreds of sites listed on UNESCO’s World Heritage Site list, very few entire cities have made the cut, but Oaxaca City does. You can get to know it on the Oaxaca Free Walking Tour .

🤑 Note: Though free, tips are customary.

Andador de Macedonia Alcala (Pedestrian Street)

colorful flags hung above the street in downtown oaxaca city mexico

Calle Macedonia Alcala is a main thoroughfare in Oaxaca City, as it connects the Santo Domingo Church with the Oaxaca Zocalo (Town Square).

As you walk this lively street, you’ll pass all the best Oaxaca art galleries, shops, bars, museums, street art, and many of the best restaurant in Oaxaca City .

If you’re looking to try some yummy Mexican cuisine, this is a great street to visit.

Basilica of Our Lady of Solitude

The Basilica of Our Lady of Solitude is one of the most beautiful Churches in Oaxaca City. It was built in the late-17th Century, and dedicated to Our Lady of Solitude, patron saint of Oaxaca.

Each year on December 18, Oaxacans celebrate the Festival of the Virgin of Solitude in her honor.

6. Best Oaxaca Markets

Mercado benito juárez.

fruit and veggies at a market in oaxaca mexico

One of the best things to do in Oaxaca City is stroll the mercados (local markets).

Of the most-visited, there’s Benito Juarez Market, ideal for souvenir shopping and trying traditional Oaxacan foods and drinks, like aguas casildas .

Opened in 1926 by the late Casilda Flores Morales, Aguas Casilda in Mercado Benito Juárez Market is where the local people go for their aguas casildas. These are a local variation of aguas frescas , or fresh fruit waters.

🌮 Looking to do a food tour in Oaxaca? The Eating with a Local at the Markets Tour is one of the highest-rated small group tours in Oaxaca (4.97 out of 5 Stars), and lead by a local foodie.

Make sure to try the chilacayote , a family recipe that’s been passed down for generations. If you’re interested sampling more of the traditional cuisine, Mercado Benito Juarez Oaxaca is chock full of delicious food.

Sunday Market in Tlacolula

Tlacolula Sunday Market in Oaxaca Mexico

If you’re visiting Oaxaca on a Sunday, head to the massive Mercado de Tlacolula in the city of Tlacolula. This is one of the best markets in Oaxaca , and one of the longest-running.

Vendors from all over the Oaxaca Valley come here to sell everything from farm-to-table produce, local cuisine and mezcal , to traditional clothing to artesanias (handmade crafts).

Mercado 20 de Noviembre

Much like Benito Juarez Market, this traditional Oaxaca market has large selections for fresh fruits and veggies, arts and crafts vendors, and a food hall section.

In fact, this is a popular market to eat, where you can go to different stalls and try a variety of foods.

Pasillo de Humo (Smoke Alley)

pasillo de humo AKA smoke alley in oaxaca city november 20 market

Located inside the November 20 Market, you’ll find Pasillo de Humo (meaning Smoke Hall or Smoke Alley).

Here, there are rows of vendors selling different varieties of meats and veggies a la carte. You can buy what you’d like, in any amount, and have it cooked al carbon (over charcoal) for a delicious smoky flavor.

If this will be your first visit to the Oaxaca Pasillo de Humo, it can be intimidating — especially if you don’t speak Spanish.

You can book the Eating with a Local at the Markets tour to go with local guides, or check out this YouTube video.

👩‍🍳 Looking to make your own Mexican food? Book this Traditional Oaxacan Cooking Class with Sonia Silvia , one of the highest-rated cooking classes in Oaxaca (4.98 out of 5 Stars).

7. Temple of Santo Domingo de Guzmán

Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzman in oaxaca city

Santo Domingo Oaxaca church is one of the oldest buildings in Downtown Oaxaca City, and its construction dates back to 1551.

It is part of the Santo Domingo Complex, which includes the church, Oaxacan Museum of Culture and Oaxaca Botanical Gardens . They are all located next to one another, and within walking distance of the Oaxaca Zocalo (Town Square).

🍷🍽 Looking to do some fine dining in Oaxaca? Head to Casa Oaxaca, located next to the Santo Domingo Temple. This is not only one of the best hotels in Oaxaca City , but one of the best places for Mexican cuisine.

Oaxaca Museum of Cultur e

This museum has 23 permanent exhibition rooms. It takes visitors through Oaxaca’s history — from pre-Hispanic times to the Colonial Period when the Spanish arrived, and ultimately, Oaxacan independence.

Don’t miss the room with the Treasure of Tomb 7 from Monte Alban.

Note: This museum goes by a lot of names!

You may see it called the Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca (meaning Museum of the Cultures of Oaxaca), the Oaxaca Cultural Center or Oaxaca Cultural Museum, but they all refer to the same place.

Oaxaca Ethnobotanical Garden

To see some native Oaxaca flora, head to Jardín Etnobotánico de Oaxaca (Oaxaca City Botanical Garden). It is located next door to the Santo Domingo Church.

This 2.5-acre garden showcases the immense biodiversity in Oaxaca, with hundreds of local plants and cacti.

🌵 Oaxaca Travel Tip s

Due to the fragility of the garden’s ecosystem, you can only enter with a guided tour. English tours take place Monday to Saturday at 11am, and last two hours.

Oaxaca Botanical Garden tours cost $100 pesos (about $5 USD) per person.

8. Catedral Metropolitana de Oaxaca (Oaxaca Cathedral)

The Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption, usually just called the Oaxaca Cathedral, is the most important church in town for religious Catholics.

If you’re into architecture and unique interiors, don’t miss this beautiful Oaxaca City church.

9. Puerto Escondido Oaxaca

man on motorcycle with surfboard in La Punta Puerto Escondido

This is the most popular Oaxaca beach town of them all! For those who have seen photos of the best Puerto Escondido beaches, you already know why this Oaxaca coastline town is so popular.

💁‍♀️ Oh, an in case you were wondering, Puerto Escondido means “hidden port.”

One of the things that put Puerto Escondido on the map are its surf waves — some of the best in North and South America.

Puerto Escondido’s famous big wave surf spot is Playa Zicatela beach, where the Mexican Pipeline wave can reach 10 feet (3 m) in height 🏄‍♀️

Pipeline isn’t a beginner wave, but you’ll find smaller waves at Playa La Punta and Playa Marinero .

Though surfing is one of the best things to do in Puerto Escondido, you can also just enjoy the beaches, like Playa Manzanillo and Playa Puerto Angel .

Playa Carrizalillo, Oaxaca

Playa Carrizalillo Beach Puerto Escondido Oaxaca Mexico

Playa Carrizalillo ranks among the best beaches in Puerto Escondido . It’s not easy to get to, as you must walk down ( then back up ) about 155 stairs to get to the beach.

However, Carrizalillo is gorgeous, and ideal for swimming and snorkeling, so it’s worth the trek.

Playa Zicatela, Oaxaca

Hands Sculpture at Playa Zicatela Beach in Puerto Escondido, Mexico

Zicatela is one of the main beaches in Puerto Escondido, and home to the Mexican Pipeline wave.

The waters here aren’t always safe for swimming, but the beach itself is very nice and there are a lot of great restaurants, bars with live music, and shops on Playa Zicatela.

10. Bahías de Huatulco Oaxaca

huatulco sign at playa santa cruz beach in oaxaca mexico

Located about two hours west of Puerto Escondido, there’s Bahías de Huatulco , usually just called Huatulco (pronounced wah-tool-coh ).

Huatulco is the perfect area for travelers looking for resort style accommodations and gorgeous beaches.

Huatulco has 36 beaches and nine bays. In fact, the word bahías means “bays” in Spanish.

With so much beachfront real estate and beautiful landscape, the best things to do in Huatulco involve being in or around the ocean, at a Huatulco Mexico beach.

There’s also Huatulco National Park , a 29,000-acre (117 km²) park that’s partially on land and partially in the protected waters off the coast.

In 2005, Huatulco received Green Globe Certification, as it has more protected space than all other Mexico destinations .

11. Mazunte, Oaxaca Pueblo Magico

Mazunte is one of Mexico’s 135 or so pueblos magicos (magic towns). It is the only Mexico pueblo magico located on the coast of Oaxaca, and one of just six Oaxaca pueblos magicos in the entire state.

As the word “pueblo” may have cued you in to, Mazunte is a small town. There are no stoplights, one main road going through town and about 25 restaurants in Mazunte .

There are, however, some really great Mazunte hotels that are quaint yet luxurious, and many amazing things to do in Mazunte, like hiking to Punta Cometa .

🤔 What is a pueblo magico?

The Mexico Tourism Board awards this designation to pueblos (small towns) with characteristics like exceptional natural beauty and unique culture.

The Pueblos Magicos Program aims to highlight towns with a high tourism value.

Punta Cometa Lookout Point

Punta Cometa is just a short and easy hike up from Playa Mazunte. You can walk up there all day, but it’s an especially popular area at sunset because you’ll get some amazing views from the clifftop.

Just below Punta Cometa, you have an ocean view of Playa Mermejita .

12. Zipolite, Oaxaca (Nude Beach)

zipolite sign on the beach inn zipolite oaxaca

Zipolite Mexico is one of the beaches that make up the Riviera Oaxaqueña (Oaxacan Riviera), along with San Agustinillo and Puerto Angel .

Despite increasing tourism, these small fishing villages have retained their old school vibes and laid back charm.

Of the three, Zipolite is the most famous — or, infamous — as it has Mexico’s only legal public nude beach.

Besides Zipolite, nudity is tolerated in other Mexico beach towns , and there are even other beaches on the Oaxacan Coast that permit being topless.

13. Lagunas de Chacahua National Park

woman's feet up on a railing at a tropical beachfront cabana in chacahua, oaxaca, mexico | Best Oaxaca Beaches

One of the most off the beaten path places to visit in Oaxaca is Lagunas de Chacahua National Park , usually just called Chacahua (pronounced cha-caw-wah).

This Mexico National Park in Oaxaca is gaining in popularity each year, though it’s still a hidden gem.

There’s just one long stretch of beach in Chacahua, so it’s easy to find the best beach in town.

The surfers congregate next to the jetty rock wall, so you can go a bit further down to get away from them, or swim in the lagoon which has calmer waters.

🤔 Wondering how to get to Chacahua? From Puerto Escondido, you can book private transportation to Chacahua , drive your rental car or take a taxi to the town of Zapotalito, where you’ll catch the boat to Chacahua.

Best Things to Do in Chacahua Mexico

blue fishing boat on a lake with trees on either side | Lagunas de Chacahua, Oaxaca, Mexico | Best Oaxaca Beaches

Chacahua is one of those Oaxaca Mexico beaches to think, admire nature, lay in a hammock, surf, read a book, go for a swim, watch the gorgeous sunset and eat fresh seafood.

The WiFi is basically nonexistent, so it’s the perfect place for peace and quiet.

This island sits on the Pacific Ocean, and is popular with surfers and backpackers.

The waves are medium-sized, but there are locals that offer lessons for beginner surfers, as well as board rentals if you want to take some Oaxaca surf lessons when you visit.

For those who don’t surf, there’s a small crocodile zoo, the El Faro lighthouse you can climb up to and watch the sunset from, and a boat tour through the mangroves.

When the sun goes down, you can take another boat tour to see the bioluminescence in Chacahua .

14. Arbol del Tule Tree in Santa María del Tule

A must see Oaxaca site!

El Tule (AKA The Tree of Enlightenment) is a giant Montezuma cypress tree located right next to the pretty Templo Santa María de la Asunción Church in the pueblo (small town) of Santa Maria del Tule, Oaxaca Mexico.

It has the world’s biggest tree trunk at 46-feet (14 m), which takes at least 30 people with clasped hands to wrap around. Scientists date this tree at about 2,000-years-old.

However, the Zapotec people of Oaxaca say the Wind God Ehécatl planted it about 1,400 years ago.

15. San Jerónimo Tlacochahuaya

About six miles (10 km) from El Tule, you’ll find the charming town of San Jeronimo Tlacochahuaya, Oaxaca , home to the 16th Century San Jerónimo Church.

For those who love all the beautiful, Colonial churches in Mexico, this is among the most unique thanks to its painted ceiling.

If you’re renting a car in Oaxaca and doing some Oaxaca City day trips , make sure to add both the El Tule tree and San Jeronimo Tlacochahuaya to your itinerary.

They are only located about 30 minutes from Oaxaca City, and worth checking out.

16. Santiago Matatlan: Land of Mezcal in Oaxaca

Santiago Matatlan Oaxaca has about 140 mezcal distilleries, and produces the most mezcal in the state of Oaxaca. If you plan to take any of these best Oaxaca mezcal tours , this is the place you’ll likely be visiting.

While there’s an overwhelming amount of distilleries to choose from, many head to Gracias a Dios and El Sabino , the distillery behind Mezcal Macurichos . They both offer tours and a mezcal tasting.

Santa Catarina Minas

Santa Catarina Minas Oaxaca is located about one hour from Santiago Matatlan.

It is home to Solo Uno, a union of 15 master mezcaleros (mezcal makers) who are keeping the traditional mezcal-making process alive at places like Lalocura and Los Amantes .

El Rey de Matatlan

Most Mexican mezcal comes from Oaxaca, so there’s a plethora of agave fields, mezcal distilleries and tasting rooms to choose from.

El Rey de Matatlan is one of the most-visited, and has free tours that show the whole farm to table mezcal process.

17. Oaxaca Pueblos Mancomunados

The Pueblos Mancomunados of the Sierra Norte of Oaxaca are eight self-governing, indigenous Zapotec Villages . They are located a few hours from Oaxaca City, and provide immersive Mexico ecotourism experiences.

The phrase pueblos mancomunados means “commonwealth of villages,” as these operate autonomously of the Mexican government.

The eight Pueblos Mancomunados are: Amatlán, Benito Juárez, Cuajimoloyas, La Nevería, Lachatao, Latuvi, Llano Grande and Yavesía.

The nature trails on their land are a network of rural footpaths, country roads and mountain bike trails that span more than 62 miles (100 km).

It is a virtually-untouched natural area, so if you want to see the best Oaxaca nature sites, head to the Pueblos Mancomunados. For nature lovers in Oaxaca, these pueblos are a must-visit.

How to visit the Pueblos Mancomunados

Since it’s very easy to get lost, you’ll need to visit with a local guide who knows the trails.

You can book this Guided Hiking in Pueblos Mancomunados of the Sierra Norte , and your guide will safely show you around these Oaxaca pueblos.

18. Teotitlán del Valle (Oaxaca Rug Town)

man making a rug on a loom in oaxaca mexico

Teotitlan del Valle Oaxaca is a quiet, picturesque pueblo (small town), located about 18 miles (30 km) from Downtown Oaxaca. The town is known for its history, culture, tradition, and the colorful rugs made here by local weavers.

Besides a great place to buy Oaxaca carpets (the prices are often cheapest here because it’s not very touristy), there’s other things to do in Teotitlan del Valle.

Don’t miss the beautiful hike to Cerro Picacho Mountain and the Iglesia Preciosa Sangre de Cristo church and ruins.

19. Santo Tomás Jalieza (Textile and Rug Town)

colorful woven rugs from oaxaca mexico (called tapetes)

In Santo Tomás Jalieza Oaxaca, you’ll see the entire textile-making process — from hand-dying the yarn with natural materials, to how the famous Oaxacan rugs are made on a loom.

There’s a large selection of rugs for sale, with shipping available.

20. San Martin Tilcajete (Oaxaca Alebrije Town)

Alebrijes (pronounced al-lay-bree-hays) are iconic and colorful Mexican folk art creations carved from wood.

On first glance, they look like animal figures — but when you look closer, you’ll see each one combines a few animals into one figure.

First made by artist Pedro Linares in Mexico City, they were later brought to the small town of San Martín Tilcajete, Oaxaca, Mexico, by Manuel Jimenez, one of the most famous people from Oaxaca .

To this day, many head to the San Martín Tilcajete pueblo (small town) to buy their own unique alebrije figure. As these are handmade, no two Oaxaca alebrijes are alike.

👩‍🎨 For a unique Oaxaca experience, join the Learn to Paint Your Own Alebrije class.

21. San Bartolo Coyotepec (Black Pottery Town)

In the Oaxacan black pottery town of San Bartolo Coyotepec you get to see where the famous barro negro (black clay) comes from, and the artisans who make it.

Along with the Oaxacan carpets and alebrijes , black pottery is one of the most popular Oaxaca arts.

This pottery was first made by Rosa Real Mateo de Nieto, AKA Doña Rosa , hundreds of years ago, and is still the town’s main source of income today.

She realized she could polish the clay before it completely dried, giving it the characteristic matte black sheen.

22. Santa Maria Atzompa (Green Pottery Town)

green pottery from the town of Santa Maria Atzompa, Oaxaca Mexico

Besides the barro negro black pottery, there’s the green pottery town of Santa Maria Atzompa, Oaxaca.

Though most famous for its vivid green-colored ceramics, you can buy pottery in a variety of colors, all made by local artisans.

To buy some, head to the Santa Maria Atzompa Mercado de Artesanias (Santa Maria Atzompa Artisan Market), the main mercado in the center of town.

Some local artisans also open their homes and workshops to the public.

Besides the pottery, if you’re visiting on the weekends, try a local Oaxaca food delicacy — barbacoa . This translates to barbecue, and it’s only eaten on weekends, usually for breakfast or brunch.

To try some Oaxaca barbacoa, head to Barbacoa de Borrego Jardines de Sofía .

23. San Agustin Etla Oaxaca

Centro de las Artes de San Agustin Etla Oaxaca

San Agustin Etla is a small town about 35 minutes by car from Downtown Oaxaca City.

It is popular with nature enthusiasts and artists thanks to the Centro de las Artes de San Agustín (San Agustin Etla Arts Center) and numerous hiking trails through the mountains.

Day of the Dead in San Agustin Etla

The most lively Oaxaca Day of the Dead celebrations take place in this small pueblo.

San Agustin Etla, Oaxaca, is known to have the biggest, most wild comparsa (parade) in the area — and locals prepare for it all year.

The Panteon San Agustin Etla cemetery is also one of the most festively-decorated, and visitors come from miles around to see it during Día de los Muertos. There’s also a elaborate celebrations during Semana Santa , or Holy Week.

24. San Jose del Pacifico: Oaxaca Mushroom Town

San Jose del Pacifico is most commonly known as the Mushroom Town in Oaxaca Mexico . Besides psychedelic mushrooms, there’s temazcal (sweat lodge) ceremonies, mushroom foraging (for the kind you cook with), and great hiking in the Sierra Sur Mountains.

Want to visit other Oaxaca towns in the Sierra Sur Mountains? Check out San Sebastian Río Hondo and San Mateo Río Hondo .

Magic Mushrooms in San Jose del Pacifico Oaxaca

For centuries, psychedelic mushrooms ( Psilocybe mexicana ) have been used as plant medicine in San José del Pacifico by traditional Zapotec practitioners.

Today, people come from all over Mexico and the world come to do mushrooms for healing purposes. You can buy mushrooms from coffee shops, restaurants and local tiendas (shops) all over town.

Do note that magic mushrooms are illegal in Mexico, though the Mexican government is aware of their use in San Jose del Pacifico, and seems to just look the other way.

🍄 The best time to visit San Jose del Pacifico to do mushrooms is from July to October , during the rainy season.

For more info, check out this San Jose del Pacifico website with cabin rentals and general information about the town.

25. Ex-Monastery of Santiago Apóstol

Located just outside Oaxaca City , Cuilápam Convent is a 16th Century church and temple space.

Photographers will love the aesthetics at this ancient site, and the temple itself is unique as it blends the pre-hispanic religions of indigenous people with Catholicism.

Unless you have a rental car , you’ll want to visit on a tour. Many tours, like the Oaxaca Antigua Full-Day Tour , make a stop at Cuilápam Convent, along with other must see Oaxaca sites like the Monte Alban archeological zone.

Want to visit other charming small towns near Oaxaca City? Check out San Andrés Huayapam , home to the beautiful San Andrés Huayapam Church and Parque Ecoturístico Huayápam.

Note: You will see this city spelled as Cuilápan de Guerrero (with an “n”), or Cuilápam de Guerrero (with an “m”), but both refer to the same place in Oaxaca.

This temple is also sometimes called the Ex Convento de Cuilapam de Guerrero .

26. La Cumbre Ixtepeji EcoPark

cloud forest in La Cumbre Ixtepeji nature preserve in oaxaca mexico

La Cumbre Ixtepeji EcoPark is a favorite among mountain bikers, hikers and nature enthusiasts.

Many visit to see the cloud forest, though you will want to book this Hike in the Oaxacan Cloud Forest with Luis Fernando, as it’s easy to get lost.

27. Tehuacan-Cuicatlan Biosphere Reserve

The Tehuacán-Cuicatlán Reserve is popular for hiking, and home to Río Papaloapan River, massive mountains and verdant valleys.

The terrain is incredibly varied, and you can go from a cacti-filled desert to a forest and end up on a mountaintop all in one single hike.

28. Oaxaca Textile Museum

pieces of fabric blowing in the wind at Oaxaca Textile Museum in Oaxaca City

The architecture of the Oaxaca Textile Museum is just as impressive as the colorful textiles inside.

If you happen to be visiting during Oaxaca Day of the Dead , you’ll find it covered in thousands of marigold flowers, for a beautiful smell and look 🌼

This is not a huge museum, but head inside to see the traditional Oaxacan textiles and beautifully-displayed handicrafts. The museum gift shop also sells artisan textiles by locals from the areas surrounding Oaxaca City.

Admission to the Oaxaca Textile Museum is FREE .

🎨 Best Oaxaca Museums

Want to check other nearby museums in Oaxaca City? Below you will find five suggestions of great museums to visit when traveling to Oaxaca City .

Rufino Tamayo Museum : Featuring more than 1,000 historic artifacts collected throughout the life of famous Mexican artist, Rufino Tamayo.
Museo de Sitio Casa Juárez : The house at García Vigil 609 where Benito Juarez, the much-beloved former Mexican President, once lived.
Museum of Contemporary Art (MACO) : A must-visit for art lovers, MACO showcases an eclectic mix of art from across the world, and also local Oaxaca artists.
Graphic Arts Institute of Oaxaca: Founded by Mexican artist, Francisco Toledo, it boasts paintings from all across Latin America.
Oaxaca Stamp Museum : Featuring stamp collections and works by local surrealist artists, this museum is much more interesting than the name suggests!

Best Places to Visit in Oaxaca Mixteca Region

One of the best Oaxaca hidden gems, the Mixteca Region (pronounced meesh-teck-uh) is home to mountains, waterfalls, hiking trails, colonial churches and more.

Within the region, check out Santiago Apoala , Tamazulapam del Progreso and Santo Domingo Yanhuitlán .

29. Santiago Apoala Oaxaca

antiago Apoala Waterfall, on of the best places to visit in Oaxaca Mexico

Santiago Apoala is a small town, with a population of about 1,000 people, and some of the most beautiful nature in Oaxaca.

If you love places where you’re the only visitor, rent one of the modest cabañas in Santiago Apoala, and enjoy being off grid and out in nature.

Santiago Apoala Waterfall

Though Hierve el Agua is the famous Oaxaca waterfall, it’s not really a waterfall at all (well, it’s technically a petrified waterfall, but there’s no water falling from it).

If you want to see a real waterfall in Oaxaca, head to Santiago Apoala.

Located about 2.5 hours north of Oaxaca City by car, the Cascadas de Santiago Apoala (Santiago Apoala Waterfalls) will really wow you.

This off the beaten path natural area is perfect for hiking, relaxing, and swimming in the waterfall pools.

30. Tamazulapam del Progreso

woman standing at the edge of swimming pool with rock wall

Tamazulapam del Progreso has some lovely natural areas to explore, like Los Chorritos Waterfall and the Cañon de Tamazulapam (Tamazulapam Canyon). There’s also a few places to go swimming in the natural sulfur spring pools the town is famous for.

Within town, head to Balneario Atonaltzin and Piedra de Agua , two local tourist attractions with picnic areas, restrooms, etc.

There are also more natural swimming holes to enjoy, like the Ojo de Agua Grande (Large Pool) and Ojo De Agua Chico (Small Pool).

31. Santo Domingo Yanhuitlán

colonial church in oaxaca, Santo Domingo Yanhuitlan Convent mexico

The massive Ex Convento de Santo Domingo Yanhuitlan (Ex-Convent of Santo Domingo Yanhuitlan) is the crown jewel in the small town of Santo Domingo Yanhuitlan Oaxaca. This former convent was built during the 16th Century.

It is one of convents on the Oaxaca Dominican Route , which has some of the most unique and most beautiful Oaxaca churches.

The other churches on this route include Iglesia de San Pedro Apóstol and Ex Convento y Templo de San Pedro y San Pablo Teposcolula .

There’s also the Geopark Mixteca Alta , a 160-square-mile (415 km²) UNESCO Global Geopark.

The park spans nine municipalities in the Oaxaca Mixteca Alta Region, and has everything from hiking trails through varied landscapes, to a 16th Century Colonial church.

Oaxaca Travel Guide and FAQ

How do you pronounce oaxaca.

Wondering about the Oaxaca pronunciation? It’s a common question, so if you are, you’re not alone! The word Oaxaca is pronounced waa-haa-kah.

What is Oaxaca known for?

Wondering, Why is Oaxaca so popular? There are five things Oaxaca is known for — art, culture, the Oaxaca Day of the Dead celebration, mezcal and food.

In fact, Oaxaca is called the Foodie Capital of Mexico, so try the street food in Oaxaca and the best Oaxaca restaurants .

Where is Oaxaca located?

Oaxaca is a state in southern Mexico, surrounded by other Mexican states like Chiapas and Puebla .

The southern edge of the state sits on the Pacific Ocean. Oaxaca City is the state’s capital city, and located about six hours south of Mexico City , you can book direct flights.

What is the best time to visit Oaxaca Mexico?

The best time to travel to Oaxaca is during the dry season, October to May .

If you don’t mind some rain during the Oaxaca rainy season, you will also get lower prices — as this is the slow season.

If you want to avoid the crowds, the Oaxaca busy season runs from about late-October for Day of the Dead , through mid-January.

Many also visit Oaxaca de Juárez (Oaxaca City) for the Guelaguetza in July, the second biggest Oaxaca festival.

🌡️ Oaxaca weather

Oaxaca City has a desert climate, so hot days and cool nights. The temperature in Oaxaca fluctuates a lot, so be mindful and bring layers when packing for Oaxaca. If you hate the heat, avoid the hottest months of April to May.

Is Oaxaca safe to travel to?

For the vast majority of travelers, Oaxaca is safe to visit. In fact, Oaxaca is one of the safest states in Mexico .

woman in front of a pin wall and I love Oaxaca sign (Oaxaca te amo)

Oaxaca City is the country’s 67th largest city, with a population of about 275,000, but retains a humble, pueblo vibe. That’s not to say bad things don’t happen in Oaxaca; they do.

However, if you take the same general travel precautions you would anywhere else — ie. stay aware of yourself, your belongings and your surroundings — you should be safe traveling to Oaxaca.

⚠️ For a deep dive into this topic and a Oaxaca safety guide, check out Is Oaxaca Safe to Travel to Right Now?

Is there Uber in Oaxaca City?

No — There is no Oaxaca Uber service, and no Lyft in Oaxaca either.

They do have DiDi Taxi through the DiDi Rider app, which lets you call a Oaxaca taxi via the app. It’s basically like using Uber or Lyft, but you will get a regular cab.

Download DiDi Rider for iPhone
Download DiDi Rider for Android

passenger calling uber in oaxaca from their cell phone

🚕 Are taxis safe in Oaxaca Mexico?

For the majority of travelers, yes, taxis are perfectly safe to use in Oaxaca.

I personally prefer to call taxis via the DiDi Rider app, so I have a record of my trip and the price is already set for me, but you can also just hail a cab on the street.

How many days do you need in Oaxaca City?

Within Oaxaca City itself, you can see the highlights in 2-3 full days .

OAXACA CITY

For those who want to explore the villages outside town, like Hierve el Agua in San Lorenzo Albarradas, San Agustín Etla, Teotitlán Del Valle and San Pablo Villa de Mitla, plan for 5-6 full days.

OAXACA State

To visit the entire state, including Oaxaca City (Oaxaca de Juarez), the Oaxaca beach towns and the Oaxaca mountain towns, you’d want at least three weeks. Oaxaca state spans 36,275 square miles (93,952 km²), so there’s a lot to see.

Is Oaxaca City worth visiting?

Yes — Oaxaca is magical; it’s the Mexico people imagine Mexico to be.

woman dancing in a festival in oaxaca mexico

There’s everything from rich history, colorful festivals , UNESCO World Heritage Sites, locally-made Oaxacan mezcal , beautiful nature, colonial architecture, indigenous artisan communities , and of course, the Oaxacan food .

As you’ll usually need to take at least two flights to Oaxaca, Mexico, or even a flight and a bus, you might still be wondering if traveling to Oaxaca is worth it.

I hope this guide to Oaxaca made it clear that FU+K YES IT IS!

Final Thoughts: Best Places to Visit in Oaxaca State

While we have reached this end of this pretty long list, it just scratches the surface of all the amazing places to see and best things to do in Oaxaca state.

To maximize your time traveling, consider renting a car in Oaxaca and doing a road trip.

You can get around by bus, colectivo (shared van) and public transport, but sometimes travel in rural Oaxaca isn’t easy, and it isn’t usually fast.

Routes that can take two or three hours by car can sometimes take eight hours via public transportation.

Oaxaca Travel Planning Guide

Should i buy mexico travel insurance for oaxaca.

100% YES! — With basic coverage averaging just $5-10 USD per day, enjoy peace of mind with a plan from Travel Insurance Master , one of the biggest names in travel insurance. ( Read more )

Can you drink the water in Oaxaca?

No — You’ll want to buy this Water-To-Go Bottle , which filters your drinking water so you don’t get sick from drinking water in Mexico, and helps keep you hydrated while traveling to Oaxaca. ( Read more )

Is it safe to rent a car in Oaxaca?

Yes — Renting a car in Oaxaca is one of the best ways to see the state. I always rent with Discover Cars , which checks international companies and local Oaxaca companies, so you get the best rates. ( Read more )

Will my phone work in Oaxaca?

Maybe — It depends on your company, so check with your provider. If you don’t have free Mexico service, buy a Telcel SIM Card . As Mexico’s largest carrier, Telcel has the best coverage of all Mexico SIM Cards. ( Read more )

What’s the best way to book places to stay in Oaxaca?

For Oaxaca hotels, Booking.com is the best site . If you’re considering a Oaxaca Airbnb, also check VRBO , which is often cheaper than Airbnb. For the best Oaxaca hostels, use HostelWorld .

What do I pack for Oaxaca?

Head to the Ultimate Mexico Packing List + FREE Checklist Download to get all the info you need on packing for Mexico.

What’s the best site to buy Oaxaca flights?

For finding cheap Oaxaca flights, I recommend booking through Skyscanner .

Do I need a visa for Oaxaca?

Likely Not — U.S., Canadian and most European Passport holders don’t need a visa for Mexico; but you can check here to see if you need a Mexico travel visa.

The vast majority of travelers will receive a a passport stamp, or 180-Day FMM Tourist Visa upon arrival.

North America
The Most Beautiful Destinations To...

The Most Beautiful Destinations to Visit in Oaxaca, Mexico

Sleepy Pacific beaches dot the coastline of Oaxaca, attracting visitors from across the world

Oaxaca state is a hotbed of culture, from ancient indigenous ruins to beach yoga opportunities and (arguably) the best chocolate in the world. Whether you want to surf waves, spot dolphins or browse the best arts and crafts in Mexico, you can do it in Oaxaca.

Stretching from the mountains to the sea, the state of Oaxaca in the south of Mexico is celebrated as a bedrock of indigenous culture as well as the arts and crafts capital of Mexico. Then there are the rock formations at Hierve el Agua, the untouched sandy beaches in Zipolite and the pre-Hispanic ruins at Yagul.

1. Oaxaca City

Architectural Landmark

Santo Domingo de Guzman Church in Oaxaca, Mexico

A trip to Oaxaca wouldn’t be complete without a stopover in its capital city. If you’re flying in, you’ll likely land in Oaxaca City anyway, so it makes sense to make the most of it straight away. Oaxaca’s zócalo (main square) is right in the middle of downtown. Stalls and street vendors pack out the plaza – make sure you try Oaxacan chocolate, arguably the most important export from the area – and the 16th-century Metropolitan Cathedral towers overhead. Nearby, in the colonial center, artisan markets, museums and regional meals await.

2. Puerto Escondido

Natural Feature

Playa Carrizalillo, Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca, Mexico, North America

Surfers flock to Puerto Escondido for sun, sand and some of the best waves in Mexico. The town has a reputation for being laid-back and you won’t find mega-resorts like those in Cancún or Puerto Vallarta here. Even if you’re not there to hang ten, you’ll still want to get in the water. Head to the Manialtepec Lagoon, just 20 minutes outside of town, which is one of the few places where you can swim with glow-in-the-dark, bioluminescent plankton that light up the lake.

Down the Pacific Coast, sleepy surf towns dot the shore. One of these is Mazunte, a pueblo mágico (meaning it has special status from the tourism board) known for its black-sand, volcanic beach, Playa Mermejita. Yoga teachers offer classes year-round on the beach and, depending on the season, you may be able to spot dolphins, whales or tortoises breaking the water from a tour starting at Playa Mazunte.

5. Zipolite

Right down the coast from Mazunte, Zipolite is another hidden-away, laid-back village, but with a slightly more risqué reputation. Zipolite’s Playa del Amor, on the edge of town, has long been a popular, clothing-optional beach, where it’s not uncommon to see swimmers baring all in the water. Now, attitudes at the town’s main beach, Playa Zipolite, are also relaxing, thanks to a nearby nudist hotel and the beach’s annual nudist gathering.

6. Hierve el Agua

Spa, Natural Feature

Hierve el Agua, natural rock formations in the Mexican state of Oaxaca

You won’t find hot springs at Hierve el Agua – which literally translates as “the water boils” – but you can swim in the small mineral-heavy waters, said to have healing powers, at the top of the tall rock formation. Mineral buildup over the years has created the illusion of two white-rock waterfalls down the cliff. While this is a trip worth making, double-check that it’s open before you go, as the site is often closed due to disputes between the state and nearby communities.

7. Bahías de Huatulco

Even further down the coast from Puerto Escondido and Mazunte, the nine bahías (bays) of Huatulco are a set of off-map beaches that have just been uncovered from the surrounding thick forest in the past few decades. One – the bay of Cacaluta – even stood in for the fictional Heaven’s Mouth beach in Alfonso Cuarón’s 2001 film Y Tu Mamá También . The waves at Bahías de Huatulco are less intense than in Puerto Escondido, so if you’re new to surfing, this might be the place to pick up a board.

To the southeast of Oaxaca City, Mitla once held an important role for the Zapotec people. While Monte Albán was the political powerhouse, Mitla (translating to “place of the dead”) served a religious role as a sacred burial site. Here, you’ll find intricately carved stonework unlike anything else in Mesoamerica, along with the Church of San Pablo, which the raiding Spanish placed on top of the conquered city.

a labyrinthine structure forming an intricate complex of passageways and many rooms at the ruins of Yagul Oaxaca Mexico

Down the road from Mitla, Yagul was an ancient Zapotec city-state occupied as early as 500 BCE, although cliff paintings in the area date back to at least 3,000 BCE. You can get a sense of ancient Zapotec life by exploring the site’s three areas: a fortress formed from volcanic rock, the ceremonial center and the residential living quarters on the outskirts of the ruins. There’s even a labyrinthine palace, hidden tombs and the second-biggest ancient playing field in all of Mesoamerica on the grounds.

10. Punta Cometa Lookout Point

Stunning view of sacred hill and blue ocean in Punta Cometa, Mexico

It’s worth stopping in Mazunte just for the incredible vistas from this viewpoint. It’s the best vantage point in the village, And we recommend arriving at dusk to see the sun sink across the horizon in streams of yellows, oranges and purples. Or, if you’re an early riser, do the opposite: watch the sun creep up from the east, then go for a swim on Mazunte Beach before it gets too hot.

Looking for somewhere to stay? Book into one of the best hotels in Oaxaca for a local experience . Inspire your itinerary with the best things to see in Oaxaca state , as well as the top things to do in Oaxaca city . Don’t miss the best restaurants in Oaxaca City .

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

Guides & Tips

Tips for visiting oaxaca, mexico.

Francisco Toledo's Legacy in Oaxaca

Places to Stay

Where to book a stay in oaxaca, mexico, for a local experience.

Restaurants

The 15 best vegetarian restaurants in oaxaca.

The Best Boutique Hotels to Book in Oaxaca, Mexico

See & Do

Make the most of five days in oaxaca city.

Food & Drink

Empirical spirits and the hunt for the pasilla mixe chilli.

The Grabado Studio That Supports Oaxaca’s Indigenous Artists

Cool and Unusual Things To Do in Oaxaca, Mexico

11 Epic Places in Oaxaca, Mexico You Never Knew Existed

Tips for Traveling From Oaxaca City to Puerto Escondido

Alfonsina: The Award-Winning Restaurant Hidden in a Home in Oaxaca, Mexico

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10 Best Places in Mexico to Visit on Your Next Trip

W ith centuries of Indigenous cultural history, ancient ruins , and resplendent cities, Mexico is brimming with beautiful places. But this can make choosing a place (or several places) to visit in Mexico a challenge. Do you want to spend your days stretched on a beach in the Yucatán Peninsula or in idle relaxation sitting beside a pueblo plaza? Then again, why not both?

To help you decide, here are our top picks for the best places to visit in Mexico.

Location: Oaxaca
Come for: a heady mix of traditional and experimental cuisine, ancient ruins, and a vibrant arts scene
Where to stay: Hotel Sin Nombre

Tucked high up in the Sierra Madre de Oaxaca, Oaxaca is a place where overflowing baskets of spices and textiles sit beside cafés serving up artisanal coffee. Cuisine is a pillar of the city's soul, whether in the form of crispy, coal-grilled tlayudas on the street or high-brow rooftop cocktails.

A capital for mezcal artistry, Oaxaca is known for its dozens upon dozens of mezcalerias . Pull up a chair at La Mezcalerita , a veritable library of mezcal, with three downstairs rooms and an appealing rooftop patio-perfect for sunset.

How to get to Oaxaca

The most direct way to get to Oaxaca is to fly into the Oaxaca International Airport (OAX). Travelers can also connect in Mexico City for the nearly 90-minute flight.

Location: Quintana Roo
Come for: tranquil lagoon life that is still flying relatively far below the typical tourist radar
Where to stay: Hotel Makaaba Eco-Boutique

Laguna de Bacalar is the second largest lake in Mexico, with colors that change from aquamarine to cobalt because of the different depths of the water, earning it the nickname "The Lake of Seven Colors." Bacalar has a reputation for eco-friendly resorts, hidden cenotes, and mangrove channels for kayaking. Life is slow-paced here-lights are usually out by 9 p.m., and that's how the locals like it.

How to get to Bacalar

Bacalar is a four-hour drive south of Cancun, which helps it retain its remote vibe. In December 2023 , the opening of the airport in Tulum will cut that drive nearly in half. Travelers can also fly into the city of Chetumal and drive for 30 minutes.

3. Puerto Escondido

Come for: epic surf and the culture that comes with it, plus undeveloped beaches, bioluminescent bays, and hot springs
Where to stay: Villas Carrizalillo

Mexico is in a constant state of development and some foreign investors have set their sights on coveted real estate. But in this port town, visitors can still eat fish tacos underneath shady palapas , grab an open-air collective van (a one-way ride will cost roughly 10 pesos), travel to the market downtown, and surf along windswept beaches at dawn, in large part thanks to efforts from tourists, expats, and locals to control development.

How to get to Puerto Escondido

Puerto Escondido has a very small airport. For an accessible alternative, travelers can connect in Mexico City or Guadalajara. A larger international airport is in Huatulco, which is about 90 minutes away.

4. Isla Holbox

Come for: idyllic car-free island living with spectacular beaches, yoga, and a growing foodie scene
Where to stay: Ser Casasandra

This island off the coast of the Yucatan peni nsula feels as much Caribbean as it does Mexican, with a blend of car-free streets and the lilt of steel drums. Though admittedly less Robinson Crusoe–esque than it used to be thanks to an infusion of boutique resorts like Nomade Holbox and NÁAY Boutique Hotel Punta Coco, this remains a place for freshly caught and grilled seafood and beaches that seem to stretch on forever.

How to get to Isla Holbox

Fly into Cancun International Airport and take a two-hour taxi, or hop on an ADO bus up for a four-hour ride to Chiquila. From there, take the 15-minute ferry to Isla Holbox.

5. Puerto Vallarta

Location: Jalisco
Come for: a beach-meets-city scene where locals and tourists mingle
Where to stay: Casa Kimberly

Puerto Vallarta is a city where bars, restaurants, or shops will unlikely accept U.S. dollars, unlike in other resort towns. It buzzes with action from both visitors and locals, whether through the pulse of the Malecon boardwalk until the wee hours or lively cobblestone streets of Zona Romantica. At the end of the day, travelers can enjoy sunset above the Bay of Banderas.

How to get to Puerto Vallarta

Several U.S. airports, including New York (JFK), San Francisco (SFO), and Los Angeles (LAX) offer direct flights to Puerto Vallarta.

Come for: all-inclusive hotels, white-sand beaches, and a lively downtown
Where to stay: Belmond Maroma Resort & Spa

Cancún is what put the Mexican Caribbean on the map, for good reason: Few places offer better white-sand beaches or all-inclusive resorts than this spot on the Yucatán Peninsula. Cancun's once locals-only downtown is starting to gain traction from travelers who want to venture outside the Hotel Zone. Here, visitors can get another taste of the city when encountering its street art, taco trucks, and bustling markets like Mercado 28.

How to get to Cancun

With the second busiest airport in Mexico , it's one of the easiest places in the country to access.

7. Guanajuato

Location: Guanajuato
Come for: colorful architecture and growing wine tourism
Where to stay: 1850 Hotel Boutique

Guanajuato is a great jumping-off point for exploring the state's growing wine route (there are more than 30 wineries in the Guanajuato Grape and Wine Association) as well as regional dishes like enchiladas mineras -head to Enchiladas de Lupe for a delicious one. The city also hosts the annual Festival Internacional Cervantino , which invites musicians, theater performers, and other artists from all over the world to showcase their culture.

How to get to Guanajuato

The main airport in the state of Guanajuato is in Leon, about an hour's drive from the city. It has a few direct flights from the USA, but travelers can get to the airport with direct flights from Tijuana, Mexico City, Puerto Vallarta, and Monterrey.

8. Mexico City

Location: Mexico City
Come for: world-class hotels, museums, and restaurants
Where to stay in Mexico City: Circulo Mexicano

No visit to Mexico is complete without exploring the world-renowned restaurants , Aztec ruins, and 24/7 vibe of its capital city. Walk around Roma Norte and other vibrant neighborhoods, each one offering something different from the next. Thanks to its efficient (and cost-effective) mass transit, devouring everything from Diego Rivera murals to inventive cocktails from the top floors of luxury hotels is possible.

How to get to Mexico City

Mexico City's airport has direct flights from all major U.S. gateways.

Location: Puebla
Come for: mole, mole, mole!
Where to stay: Banyan Tree Puebla

Puebla has fostered a scene that is just as proud of its heritage and tradition (it's said to have a church for every day of the year) as it is of its experimental restaurants, with eateries like Moyuelo and Áttico 303 fusing traditional Mexican ingredients with international techniques and recipes. The city's kitchens and street carts offer temptations like mole (a dried chile sauce) in every shade, overstuffed bread roll sandwiches known as cemitas , and tacos arabes stuffed into fluffy lavash-style bread.

How to get to Puebla

Puebla has its own international airport with direct flights from Houston (IAH), but consider flying into Mexico City, which has ample connections. From the Benito Juarez airport, you can hop aboard an express bus and ride two hours to Puebla.

10. San José del Cabo

Location: Baja California Sur
Come for: Cabo beaches and fantastic dining without the overwhelming hum of tourists
Where to stay: Acre Baja

Los Cabos consists of Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo, which are connected by a long stretch of resort-lined roads known as the Tourist Corridor. As Cabo San Lucas is the more visited of the two, San José del Cabo is where travelers go to escape the crowds. Those visiting San José del Cabo can experience a thriving farm-to-table scene thanks to organic farms Flora Farms, Tamarindos, and Acre Baja that double as outdoor restaurants.

How to get to San José del Cabo

San Jose del Cabo's international airport is the gateway to Los Cabos. It has direct flights from most major U.S. hubs.

Yes, Mexico has superior beaches, but there is much more to the country besides sun and sea.

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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.
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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.
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2023. 3. Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca. 1,258. Speciality Museums. Historical museum with treasures from Monte Alban, set amidst serene botanical gardens. Includes a library of ancient texts and panoramic views of the Ethnobotanical Museum. See ways to experience (2) 2023.
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20 Top Things to Do in Oaxaca, Including Mexican Hot Chocolate Tastings and Mural Walks. Culinary and cultural adventure await in this increasingly popular city in Mexico.
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6. Day Trip to Monte Alban (one of the top things to do in Oaxaca) 7. Go for a Hike. 8. Visit the Botanical Gardens (one of the top things to do in Oaxaca to get away from the traffic!) 9. Take Part in a Temazcal Ceremony.
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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.
Mexico Insider's 25 absolute best things to do in Oaxaca City
Every year, I do a 5-day tour in Oaxaca for Spring where I take readers of this blog around Oaxaca with a full-packed local itinerary. 5 days is enough for Oaxaca and during this week, you can discover the food, the top spots, and interact with the local community.. I only host 8-10 people for each group so if you don't have travel plans this Spring, come join me in Oaxaca City!
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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 ...
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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)
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Best Things to Do in Oaxaca City Mexico. 2. Dia de Muertos: November 1-2. Día de los Muertos, the Oaxaca Day of the Dead holiday is one of the most fun times to visit Oaxaca City, Oaxaca Mexico. Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) is one of the biggest festivals, not only in Oaxaca, but in all of Mexico.
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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.
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Oaxaca City. Mexico, North America. A cultural colossus fit to rival anywhere in Latin America for history, gastronomy and colorful manifestations of indigenous culture, Oaxaca is a complex but intensely attractive city whose majestic churches and refined plazas have deservedly earned it a Unesco World Heritage badge.
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5. Stop by Templo de Santo Domingo. The Templo de Santo Domingo is arguably the most beautiful church - inside and out - in all of Oaxaca. Mainly built between 1570 and 1608, the region's best artists came all the way from Puebla and elsewhere in Mexico to help construct this church. Photo by Andrea Schaffer.
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Like a sauna, water is poured over heated stones together with seasonal herbs and fruits. The Ceviarem Temazcal - just out of town - is one of the best places to give it a go. There are plenty of reasons to visit Oaxaca; inspire your itinerary with the best things to see in Oaxaca state, and don't miss the best restaurants in Oaxaca City.
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Oaxaca City will probably be the starting point to discover all the best places to visit in Oaxaca state. There is a small, but efficient airport, a centrally located ADO bus station, and lots of collectivo and minivans that make this region well-connected to the rest of Mexico, like hubs in Mexico City.
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The previous Oaxaca itinerary focuses on the best things to do in Oaxaca City and nearby day trips. The following Oaxaca itinerary is all about the best places to see in Oaxaca State. This general two-week Oaxaca itinerary includes how to budget time to visit the Sierra Sur Mountain range and the coastal beach towns.
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2. Marvel at The Gilded Interior of Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzmán. Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzmán is one of Oaxaca's most famous landmarks. The monumental church is located in the heart of the city, and it is included in most walking tours of Oaxaca.
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Oaxaca City (Oaxaca de Juárez) is arguably one of the best places to visit in Mexico, and in this 4-day or 5-day itinerary, I'm going to show you exactly why!. From its diverse indigenous cultures to its world-famous gastronomy to its sprawling, colorful markets, Oaxaca City offers plenty to discover, love, and experience in just a few days!
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The clothing-optional beach at Zipolite is the best place to visit to get rid of those pesky tanlines, ... these are the top things to do in Oaxaca. 1. Visit Oaxaca City's Historic Center. Oaxaca City's historical center is an enchanting blend of colonial charm and indigenous heritage. Wander through its cobblestone streets, lined with ...
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Best Places to Visit in Oaxaca Mexico. 24. San Jose del Pacifico: Oaxaca Mushroom Town. San Jose del Pacifico is located way up in the mountains and above the clouds in Valles Centrales, the Oaxaca Central Valley. San Jose del Pacifico is most commonly known as the Mushroom Town in Oaxaca Mexico.
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Zipolite's Playa del Amor, on the edge of town, has long been a popular, clothing-optional beach, where it's not uncommon to see swimmers baring all in the water. Now, attitudes at the town's main beach, Playa Zipolite, are also relaxing, thanks to a nearby nudist hotel and the beach's annual nudist gathering. 6.
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3. Lagunas de Chacahua National Park. Spanning over 14,000 hectares, Lagunas de Chacahua National Park is a haven for nature enthusiasts. This coastal paradise, one of the most scenic places in the Oaxaca, boasts a unique ecosystem of mangroves, lagoons, and pristine beaches.
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To help you decide, here are our top picks for the best places to visit in Mexico. 1. Oaxaca. Tucked high up in the Sierra Madre de Oaxaca, Oaxaca is a place where overflowing baskets of spices ...

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Oaxaca de Juárez Itinerary

Oaxaca 1 Week Itinerary

Day 2: Day Trip to Hierve el Agua, Mezcal Distilleries, and More

Day 3: Brunch in Jalatlaco, Oaxaca’s Zócalo, and Rooftop Pulque

Day 4: Day Trip to Hidden Waterfalls or the Sierra Norte Mountains

Day 5: Oaxacan Cooking Class & Shopping for (Real) Artisan-Made Goods

Day 6: Monte Albán Archaeological Site and Jardín Etnobotánico de Oaxaca

Day 7: Bike Ride to El Tule and Wandering the City

Where to Stay in Oaxaca City

How to spend 3 days in Oaxaca City

How to spend 5 days in Oaxaca City

10 day Oaxaca Itinerary

Puerto Escondido and Oaxaca Itinerary

Mexico City and Oaxaca Itinerary

Chiapas and Oaxaca Itinerary

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When is the best time of year to visit Oaxaca City?

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Unmissable Things to Do in Oaxaca Mexico

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

2. 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)

7. Visit the 20 de Noviembre Market

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

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

10. Visit the Xochimilco District

11. Visit the Colorful Jalatlaco Neighborhood

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

13. Try as Many Coffee Shops as You Can

14. Eat the 7 Moles Dish

15. Take a Cooking Class

Here are some other cooking class options.

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

18. Visit MACO Museum of Contemporary Art

19. Visit IAGO, Institute of Graphic Arts of Oaxaca