places to visit in oaxaca city

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.

See also: Where to Stay 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

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.

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Best Beaches in Mexico : Some of the best vacations in Mexico are to be enjoyed in Cancún , an island-based luxury resort off the north coast of Yucatán known for its many beautiful "playas," or beaches. Another island that's popular with modern-day sun-worshippers, Cozumel -also off the Yucatán Peninsula-boasts lush tropical vegetation and great coral reef-lined beaches. Those seeking great luxury resorts should consider Cabo San Lucas , located near the California Baja Peninsula and with a delightful (though not-too-big) beach area.

Mexico's Pre-Columbian Past : An easy commute from Cancun's resort area, the historic Mayan ruins of Chichén Itzá date back over 700 years and offer plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in the history of this fascinating ancient culture. Equally as popular is ancient Tulum , the only Mayan fort known to have been built overlooking the ocean. For those staying in the country's capital, a number of great tours and day trips from Mexico City take in such sites as Teotihuacán and Tenayuca.

Mexico Travel Ideas : There's no end of fun things to do in Mexico City , the country's capital, from exploring its old Aztec roots to beautiful architecture that dates back to the time of the first colonists. Add to this the many museums, art galleries, old churches, and palaces, and you'll be kept busy for days. Beautiful Guadalajara has also done a great job of preserving its colonial past, and boasts many fascinating historic attractions and points of interest worth exploring. So, too, has Mérida , the capital of Yucatán, famed the world over as the "white city" for the color of garments most preferred by its population.

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36 Hours in Oaxaca, Mexico

By Elisabeth Malkin Updated Nov. 23, 2023

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As Oaxaca’s attractions multiply and tourists pack its new hotels and upscale restaurants, the southern Mexican city has still preserved its character. It’s common to hear the brass band and drums of a calenda, a street procession that is accompanied by dancers, giant puppets and enormous spinning balloons, to celebrate a wedding or baptism. The city hosts festivals year round, but it’s especially joyous in December, when residents honor Mexico’s patron saint, the Virgin of Guadalupe, and the city’s patron saint, Our Lady of Solitude. During the whimsical Night of the Radishes , held annually on Dec. 23, artisans transform giant radishes into elaborate sculptures. Meanwhile, Oaxacans are constantly innovating, reworking their traditional cuisine or adapting their ancient textile heritage. The city’s arts scene draws young people, giving Oaxaca a vigor that similar small cities would envy.

Recommendations

• La Cocina de Humo , a tiny restaurant, offers an introductory cooking course that teaches how to prepare classics like Oaxacan moles, salsas and tamales.
• Jardín Etnobotánico , a botanical garden, features the lush biodiversity of Oaxaca State and shows how it influenced the development of pre-Hispanic civilizations.
• Humito Cocina y Foro 8 Temblor opened last year and presents live jazz, boleros, cumbia and other genres in a cozy performance space overlooking city lights.
• Museo de Arte Prehispánico de México Rufino Tamayo houses a vast collection of pre-Hispanic figures chosen for their aesthetic qualities.
• Oaxaca’s printmaking workshops highlight a vibrant art form among the city’s young artists. Visit studios like Taller La Chicharra , Burro Press , La Máquina Taller de Gráfica , Taller Artístico Comunitario and the arts center at the middle of the movement, the Instituto de Artes Gráficas de Oaxaca .
• Marimba Orquesta “Hermanos Carreón ” is a nine-piece band featuring percussion and brass instruments that plays most nights on the Zócalo, a plaza that is the heart of the city, attracting dancers of all skills.
• San Martín Tilcajete is a village to Oaxaca’s south where artisans carve and paint elaborate fantasy creatures. See the creations at Jacobo and María Ángeles Workshop , Una Inspiración de mi vida and Alebrijes Amaltea .
• At Origen , the inventive chef Rodolfo Castellanos fuses traditional Oaxacan flavors with other cuisines.
• Alfonsina is the singular vision of the chef Jorge León, who returned to his hometown to explore the essence of Oaxaca’s biodiversity in his recipes.
• El Lechoncito de Oro is a late-night taco stand serving chopped suckling pig to after-hours revelers.
• Boulenc is a bakery and breakfast spot with delicious pastries and unbeatable sourdough bread.
• Sabina Sabe is a popular mezcal and cocktail bar that attracts a lively young crowd of tourists and locals.
• Restaurante Coronita is a restaurant where oaxaqueños have been going to sample moles and no-frills classics since 1948.
• 1050 Grados is a pottery cooperative selling minimalist tableware.
• Los Baúles de Juana Cata offers a rich variety of high-quality woven and embroidered Oaxacan textiles.
• La Casa de las Artesanías de Oaxaca sells an expansive selection of handicrafts, textiles, pottery and rugs.
• La Danta is a luxury Airbnb in the home of the late Oaxacan artist Francisco Toledo and is run by his family. Four limestone bungalows (listed separately), designed by the local architecture firm Root Studio , are set among the dense vegetation of a landscaped garden built into the city’s 18th-century aqueduct. The bungalows range from 3,000 to 6,000 pesos (about $175 to $350) a night.
• Hotel Casa de la Tía Tere , in the city center, is a popular family-friendly hotel with a swimming pool. A standard room costs 1,520 pesos and a bungalow is 2,620 pesos.
• Casa Las Mercedes is a centrally located small hotel with a quiet courtyard and simple rooms. Ask for a room on the top floor to get the best light. Rooms start from 1,350 pesos.
• For short-term rentals , look in Xochimilco and Jalatlaco, two picturesque neighborhoods just to the north and east of Oaxaca’s historic center.
• Walking is part of the pleasure of visiting Oaxaca, whose historic center is small enough to explore on foot. Street taxis circulate widely and are safe and cheap. Taxis are the best way to reach Alfonsina and San Martín Tilcajete, two destinations in this guide that are outside of the city; they can be rented by the hour (250 to 300 pesos). Uber is not available in Oaxaca, but Didi , a similar ride-sharing app, is.

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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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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.

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.

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!

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 !

• 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!

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!

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.

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!

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:

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 .

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.

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!

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.

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!

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!

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:

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!

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!

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!

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 !

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!

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 !

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. :)

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!

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.

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!

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.

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.

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 !

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!

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

• 49 Amazing Things to Do in Mexico City: CDMX Bucket List!
• San Pancho, Mexico Guide: Best Things to Do, See & Eat in San Pancho!
• 10 Reasons to Visit Oaxaca City, Mexico ASAP
• 10 Best Destinations in Mexico for Digital Nomads
• How to Take the Best Self-Guided Day Trip from Oaxaca City (Route & Tips!)
• The 10 Best Mexico City Neighborhoods to Explore
• Cholula, Mexico Travel Guide: BEST Things to Do, See & Eat in Cholula!
• 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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27 Unmissable Things to Do in Oaxaca City Mexico – A Travel Guide

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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.

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

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The Best Things to See and Do in Oaxaca City, Mexico

From sampling smoky mezcal to trying out a steamy temazcal sauna, the vibrant Mexican city of Oaxaca sets up all sorts of adventures.

The southern Mexican state of Oaxaca is an enchanting mix of world-class beaches, Unesco-listed wonders and delicious cuisine. The jewel in its crown is the state capital of Oaxaca City, as rich in color as it is culture with a self-aware sophistication that belies its gritty underbelly.

Planning a trip to Mexico? Join our nine-day adventure around the Yucátan Peninsula , or book our five-day Mini Trip to Baja California Sur – you’ll experience the best places in the country with the help of our Local Insider.

Immerse yourself in the sights, sounds and smells of a market

Pick up a piece of colorful craftwork at Aripo

Almost as much as its food, Oaxaca is famed for its rich craft heritage. For guaranteed quality pieces by local artists, head to the Instituto Oaxaqueño de las Artesanías (also known as Aripo). It’s as much a cultural center as an arts and craft store where you can browse work from all over Oaxaca state – from embroidered fabrics to earthenware. They host regular workshops – and everything you buy helps support the artistic community.

Explore the region’s abundance of plant species all in one place

Oaxaca’s wealth of flora has been curated and concentrated into the fabulous Jardín Etnobotánico de Oaxaca. You can stroll through a collection of almost a thousand plant species in this beautifully laid-out botanical garden, each native to the state from its cold mountains to humid tropics. It’s set in the serene grounds of an old convent and also dotted with pieces of contemporary sculpture. Guided tours take around an hour and are available in English.

Discover the region’s history and ancient treasures

If you have time after visiting the botanical gardens, the adjoining Church of Santo Domingo de Guzmán is more than worth a look-in. As well as being a fine piece of Baroque architecture with flamboyantly gilded interiors, it’s home to the region’s most important museum. It traces the region’s history from pre-Hispanic times through the colonial period over 23 rooms. The museum’s showstopper is the collection of burial treasures found in Monte Albán’s most famous Tomb 7.

Try on this superb textile museum on for size

You don’t need to be particularly interested in threads to enjoy this excellent Museo Textil de Oaxaca exploring the history and traditions of Oaxacan dress and beyond. Thousands of pieces are spread between nine permanent exhibitions, displaying local, regional and national cloth and clothing, much of it well over a hundred years old. To get more out of the experience you can arrange a one-hour guided tour in your language. There’s also an excellent crafts shop onsite if you fancy picking up a souvenir.

Join the locals in the laid-back bustle of the city’s main plaza

Heading to the zócalo (main square) when the day cools to stroll, sit and shoot the breeze is a national pastime among Mexicans – and Oaxacans are no different. Set in the city’s historic center, its official name is La Plaza de la Constitución and is the perfect spot to soak up the city’s inimitable atmosphere. Together with neighboring Alameda de León park, it hosts regular markets and lively events, too. Step into the adjacent cathedral to cool off under ornate vaulted ceilings and baroque treasures.

Travel back in time to the Zapotec city of Monte Albán

Before the Spanish arrived, the region was dominated by the Zapotec civilization, who mostly left their mark in the form of abandoned cities and ceremonial centers . Set on the leveled-off mountaintop just outside the city, Monte Albán is the must-see Zapotec site combining exemplary Zapotec architecture with superb panoramic vistas. Located just outside the Monte Albán Archeological Zone is also a museum that charts the history of these ancient people through an impressive collection of objects, artworks – and human remains.

Sip and sample some of the state’s smoky spirit

It would be a shame to visit Oaxaca and not sample some of its most famous fiery tipple. There are numerous mezcalerías (bars specializing in mezcal ) where you can opt for either a casual drink or more formal tasting session. Either way, you’re likely to encounter bartenders who know the spirit inside-out, so don’t be shy in asking questions. If straight liquor is not your thing, a mezcal margarita is a deliciously smoky take on the original.

Detox and de-stress in an ancient sweat lodge

If you’ve overdone it on the mezcal the night before, the fastest way to feel better is with a temazcal. This traditional Mesoamerican version of the sauna used to be part of a curative ceremony, and is still a great way to cleanse and detox. 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 .

Browse our full collection of Epic Trips , Mini Trips and Sailing Trips – where will you go first?

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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.

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Where to Book a Stay in Oaxaca, Mexico, for a Local Experience

Francisco Toledo's Legacy in Oaxaca

The Grabado Studio That Supports Oaxaca’s Indigenous Artists

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Oaxaca   Travel Guide

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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.

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Monte Albán Monte Albán

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

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

Hierve el Agua Hierve el Agua

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

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

Andador de Macedonia Alcala Andador de Macedonia Alcala free

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

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

Benito Juarez Market Benito Juarez Market free

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

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

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30 Cool Things to Do in Oaxaca City [2024]

• by Nellie Huang

Oaxaca is a food and culture powerhouse. To get under its skin, here are the best things to do in Oaxaca CIty, from market tours to pyramid hikes.

Colorful, spirited and deeply rooted in traditions: Oaxaca is the Mexico that many dream of. It truly captures the soul of the country like nowhere else, with its flamboyant festivals, indigenous culture and historic architecture.  Surrounded by the Sierra Madre mountains of Southern Mexico, Oaxaca is a destination that is both culturally and visually captivating.  

Oaxaca (pronounced ‘wa-ha-ka’) has become increasingly popular over the years, thanks to its vibrant markets and world-class gastronomy, including its famous mole sauces and artisanal mezcal . We traveled Oaxaca at Dia de los Muertos , the biggest festival of the year for Mexicans — and had a blast joining in the parades and celebrations. We dug deep to compile this list of places to visit in Oaxaca, hope you find it useful!

Table of Contents

1. Start at the Zocalo 

2. take a free oaxaca walking tour, the new copper canyon airport, 3. visit the casa de la ciudad, 4. sip oaxacan chocolate, 5. walk the car-free macedonia alcalá, 6. visit the templo de santo domingo, 7. see the oaxacan cultural center, 8. see the lush botanical gardens, 9. browse the atemporal design market, mexico travel requirements, 10. visit the oaxaca textile museum.

• 11. Snap Photos at Callejon San Pablo

12. Get Lost in the Smoke Alley

13. sample the legendary mole, 14. drink tejate, 15. try the netflix-famous memelas, 16. have a nieve at plaza de la danza, 17. watch sunset on a rooftop bar, 18. wander around colorful jalatlaco, 19. check out xochimilco, 20. celebrate the guelgaguetza, 21. celebrate dia de los muertos, 22. climb the pyramids of monte albán, 23. explore the hierve el agua, 24. explore the mitla ruins, 25. learn weaving in teotitlán del valle, 26. see the world’s biggest tree trunk, 27. take a mezcal tour, 28. visit the nearby artisan villages, 29. visit the zaachila ruins, 30. do a temazcal ceremony, how to get to oaxaca, getting around oaxaca, how many days to visit oaxaca, best time to visit oaxaca, is it safe to travel to oaxaca, where to stay in oaxaca, where to eat in oaxaca, further reading on mexico, things to do in oaxaca.

There are so many incredible things to do in Oaxaca it’s worth spending at least 4-5 days in the city. We spent 10 days in Oaxaca , exploring both the capital city and the surrounding Mayan pyramids, Sierra Madre mountains and the laidback Oaxacan coast. 

In this guide, I’ve compiled the best things to do in Oaxaca city (not the state) and have mapped them out like a walking tour. Feel free to print out this list and follow it like an itinerary. I also included things to do around Oaxaca, as well as best time to visit, safety tips and recommendations on hotels and restaurants.

The historic center of Oaxaca is a World Heritage Site, packed with over 1200 registered historic sites. The heart of the city is the Zócalo (or Plaza de la Constitución ), or main square. It’s surrounded by some of the most important historic buildings in Oaxaca City, including the Palacio de Gobierno (Government Palace), the Catedral de Oaxaca (Oaxaca Cathedral), and the Templo de la Compañía de Jesús (Church of the Company of Jesus). 

Regardless of when you visit, you’ll likely find street performers and musicians around the Zócalo, from folk singers to marimba bands. The Zócalo is often the site of festivals, concerts, and other cultural events throughout the year. Check the local calendar to see what’s happening during your visit.

I love doing these walking tours the in new cities I visit (especially when I’m traveling solo) as it’s a great way to get my bearings and meet fellow travelers. In Oaxaca, our guide shared with us plenty of interesting insights, including snippets about Oaxaca’s indigenous groups and their struggle for equal rights. These are things you won’t learn from wandering the streets on your own.

Oaxaca’s free walking tour runs three times a day from Monday to Saturday: 10am, 1pm and 4pm; and only twice a day on Sunday: 10am and 4pm. The meeting point is at Teatro Macedonio Alcala, just a block east of the Cathedral. . It’s a great first thing to do in Oaxaca for a general overview of the city.

TIP:   Although they are ‘free’ walking tours, a tip is expected. The standard is around 100 MXN (US$5) per person.

The US$65-million Creel International Airport has been under construction for years and is set to open in 2024. It was supposed to be completed in 2016, but disputes with local Tarahumara ejido owners have caused major delays.

Casa de la Ciudad , located just off the Zócalo, houses a cultural center and museum dedicated to the history and architecture of Oaxaca City. The building itself is a beautiful example of colonial architecture, with a large central courtyard and ornate stonework.

You can explore the center’s galleries, which feature exhibits on everything from traditional crafts to contemporary art. If you’re celebrating Dia de los Muertos in Oaxaca , then make sure to pop in here as its courtyard garden gets decorated in orange magnolia flowers and eclectic alebrije sculptures.

In the northern corner of the Zócalo stands the flagship store of the Mayordomo Oaxaca . Mayordomo is a local chocolate maker that has been in business for over 150 years, and it’s best spot to try the famous chocolate oaxaqueño. (It also has an excellent menu with traditional breakfast items like mole tamales. )

Chocolate has been produced in Oaxaca for thousands of years, and it was a prized commodity among the ancient Zapotec and Mixtec peoples. Today, Oaxacan chocolate is still an important part of local culture, and it’s often used in traditional Oaxacan dishes like mole and hot chocolate.

Rather than being processed into a smooth paste like most chocolate, Oaxacan chocolate is typically ground by hand on a stone metate, which gives it a slightly gritty texture and a more rustic appearance. The grinding process also helps to release the flavors and aromas of the spices, creating a rich and complex flavor profile. Hot chocolate at Mayordomo is served in a large clay jug and hand-spun using a wooden stirrer called molinillo .

From the Zócalo, amble along the pedestrianized Andador Turístico, Calle Macedonia Alcalá , which runs all the way to the Templo de Santo Domingo. You’ve probably seen photos of this street before: colorful papel picado (paper flags) dangling between rows of iconic pastel historic houses. 

This bustling  pedestrianized street is flanked by arts and craft shops, cafes, and restaurants, and it’s a great place to soak up the local atmosphere. Along the way, you’ll pass by some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, including the Palacio de Gobierno, which features a beautiful mural by the artist Arturo García Bustos depicting the history of Oaxaca.

One of the most iconic landmarks in Oaxaca, the Templo de Santo Domingo is a symbol of the city and a major gathering point. It was originally built in the late 16th century by the Dominican order and is considered one of the finest examples of Baroque architecture in Mexico. Many of Oaxaca’s buildings – including this church – were constructed with green volcanic stone, as evident from the greenish tint in the stonework.

The church’s ornate facade is covered in intricate carvings, while the interior is filled with stunning frescoes, gold leaf embellishments, and impressive altarpieces. The agave plants in front of the church make for cool photo ops — just be careful when walking behind the plants, their spikes are sharp!

Attached to the Templo de Santo Domingo is the Casa de la Cultura Oaxaqueña, a fascinating museum showcasing the history and culture of Oaxaca. The museum’s collection includes an impressive array of pre-Columbian artifacts, colonial-era art, and contemporary works by Oaxacan artists. There are also occasional live music and dance performances, theater productions, and workshops on traditional arts and crafts.

One of the most notable aspects of Casa de la Cultura Oaxaqueña is its commitment to preserving and promoting indigenous culture. The center offers workshops in Zapotec and Mixtec languages, as well as traditional dances and other cultural practices. You can learn about the history and customs of the region’s indigenous communities through interactive exhibits and demonstrations.

Jardín Etnobotánico de Oaxaca , located next to the Santo Domingo Church, is a beautiful oasis in the heart of the city dedicated to the preservation and study of the indigenous plants of Oaxaca. The garden features over 1,200 species of plants, many of which have cultural and medicinal significance to the local people. Covering nearly 7 acres, the garden is home to a wide variety of plant species native to Oaxaca, ranging from towering cacti to towering hardwood trees.

The gardens only allow visits by guided tours; make sure to come early to have a spot. If you speak Spanish, there are regular tours throughout the day for 50pesos per person. English tours are only held at 11am Monday to Saturday, for 100pesos per person. There are also French and German tours. Refer to the website for details.

Just a few blocks from Santo Domingo is a cool, eclectic design market housed in a crumbling half-restored building. It features a curated selection of products, ranging from artisanal icecream to locally-brewed mezcal and trendy fashion.

The focus of Atemporal Market is on showcasing homegrown products of Oaxaca, with an emphasis on sustainable and ethical production methods. The vibes here are hip and alternative, in contrast to the traditional markets that Oaxaca is famous for (I’ll talk about below).

• Mexico has no travel restrictions, and there’s no need for proof of vaccine or PCR tests on the plane. Anyone is welcomed to travel to Mexico.
• However, I always recommend travelers to buy travel insurance, whether you’re traveling for a year or a week. These days, it is particularly important to have travel insurance that covers COVID-19. Read my travel insurance guide.
• Safety Wing  is the most popular travel insurance company for COVID19-coverage. I use their  Nomad Insurance plan , which covers COVID-19 as any other illness as long as it was not contracted before your coverage start date.

Two blocks to the east of the Zócalo is the interesting Museo Textil de Oaxaca dedicated to the art of weaving in Oaxaca, with exhibits showcasing traditional techniques and textiles from different regions of the state. The small museum was founded in 2006 by the Alfredo Harp Helú Foundation and is housed in a beautifully restored 18th-century building in the historic center of the city.

The museum’s exhibits showcase the intricate designs, vibrant colors, and diverse techniques used by local weavers and artisans, as well as the cultural and historical significance of these textiles. Admission is FREE.

11. S nap Photos at Callejon San Pablo

Right next to the Textile Museum is an alley that leads to the Centro Cultural San Pablo. The art space is decorated with giant sculptures, mural art and colorful umbrellas hanging overhead. There’s a cafe with outdoor seating as well as a casual flea market selling handmade crafts, wooden art and locally designed clothings. See its location on Google Maps.

Oaxaca’s biggest appeal is its food. Oaxacan food is known for being unique and completely distinctive from other Mexican cuisine. The largest markets in Oaxaca City are  Mercado de Benito Juárez and Mercado 20 de Noviembre just to the south of the historic center (the two almost merge together) and both offer senses-assaulting experiences. 

Benito Juárez has almost anything you could ever need – from artisan goods to electronic accessories – but I recommend Mercado 20 de Noviembre for their cooked food. Meat lovers should head straight to the Pasillo de Humo (Smoke Alley) at the eastern entrance of Mercado 20 de Noviembre. Stall after stall of meat vendors serve up succulent meat, grills blazing and smoke billowing out. The most common meats here are tasajo (thinly sliced beef) , arrachera (steak), costilla (pork ribs) and chorizo (spicy sausage). They’re all good and portions are huge!

Another popular food to try here is the tlayuda , a massive tortilla covered in beans, cheese, and various meats or vegetables. Originally from Oaxaca, tlayuda is best shared with friends and it makes for a yummy traditional Mexican breakfast . Besides that, there are plenty of Mexican antojitos (street food) to try at Mercado 20 de Noviembre.

TIP: It’s worth noting that Mercado 20 de Noviembre can be crowded and overwhelming. However, the lively atmosphere and incredible food make it well worth a visit. If you’re nervous, join a food tour with a local guide or a cooking class that includes a market tour!

I could write an entire article about the outstanding food of Oaxaca, but none is more iconic than mole. It’s part sauce, part marinade, often drenched over chicken or other meat. With seven definitive versions (each with its own unique recipe), mole is a complex and intricate dish that is quintessentially Oaxacan. Many foreigners struggle to like this dish, but I honestly cannot understand why. It’s sweet, spicy, sour, and bitter all at once!

Mole recipes vary, but in general, it’s made up of chocolate, chiles, red and green tomatoes, fruit, spices, nuts and seeds. The ingredients are blended into a paste, then watered down with stock, and slow-cooked for hours (or days) until it forms a rich flavorful sauce. Mole is usually eaten with chicken or meat and rice.

Here are the seven versions of mole that can be found in Oaxaca:

• Mole Negro: black mole is the most common type of mole.
• Mole Rojo: similar to the black mole, but this uses chilhuacle negro chiles.
• Mole Colorado: brown in color, featuring the secret ingredient of ripe plantain.
• Mole Verde: green mole colored by tomatillos, jalapenos and cilantro.
• Mole Amarillo: yellow mole is unsweet mole without chocolate.
• Mole Manchamantel: this ‘tablecloth-staining’ mole is made distinctive by the chorizo, ancho chiles, and pineapple.
• Mole Chichilo: this mole is made with beef stock, dried chiles de arbol, anchos and guajillos.

Another quintessentially Oaxacan staple is the tejate , a chocolate and corn-based drink. It has been enjoyed for centuries in Oaxaca since preHispanic days. Although the combination of ingredients might seem unusual, this traditional drink has withstood the test of time and is beloved by many in Oaxaca.

Its popularity among locals has even earned it the nickname of “ bebida de los dioses ” or “drink of the gods.” Despite its ancient origins, tejate continues to be a popular drink in Oaxaca and is a must-try for anyone visiting the region. You’ll find it in Mercado 20 de Noviembre, stored in a giant clay tub and served with a gourd scoop.

If you’ve seen Street Food Latin America , you would have heard of Doña Vale. If not, watch the episode 3 of Season 1: “Oaxaca, Mexico”and learn all about the famous Doña Vale. This Oaxacan lady has been selling memelas for over 30 years and her memelas have becoming known as the best in town.

Memelas are a popular Mexican antojito (street food) from Oaxaca, and they are essentially tacos made with tortillas that are slightly thicker than usual ones. They’re usually cooked with a bit of pork lard, then with salsa and the stringy Oaxacan cheese.The meat is cooked separately, then added on top of your memela when it gets plated. Everything is cooked on a  comal, which is a flat, circular cooking surface with charcoal underneath. 

To taste Doña Vale’s memelas, you’ll have to navigate the chaos of the largest market in Oaxaca,  Mercado Central de Abastos . Her stall is located on the southern side of the market, and you can see it here on  Google Maps . When you take the taxi, just tell the driver that you’re going to Doña Vale, as he’ll know where to drop you off.

Four blocks to the west of the Cathedral is the Plaza de la Danza, flanked by the Basilica de la Solidad. All around the square are stalls selling nieves or traditional Oaxacan snow cones. Nieves are available in a plethora of flavors: from jamaica (hibiscus) to chilacayote  (a pumpkin-like fruit). The ‘tuna’ flavor is made from a cactus fruit and is particularly good (don’t worry, there isn’t any fish in it!). 

We tried the nieves at La Neveria la Oaxaqueña and were impressed by the unique, exotic flavors such as chapulines (grasshoppers) and tejate (a Oaxacan traditional drink). As we were in Oaxaca during Dia de los Muertos, they even had special flavors including  cempasuchil (marigold) and pan de muerto made from a skull bread that’s commonly eaten during this time of the year!

One of my favorite things to do in Oaxaca is having dinner and drinks at a rooftop bar in town during sunset. Most rooftop bars are concentrated along Calle de Ignacio Allende , where you can take in sweeping views of the Templo de Santo Domingo and the historic center. I highly recommend booking a table in advance as these rooftop bars get busy.

We really enjoyed the food and drinks at Praga Oaxaca ; their botaca oaxaqueña (snack platter) was filling and flavorful. Its rooftop bar is small though. The next-door Terraza los Amantes is bigger and more stylish (we didn’t go there as it was full). At the street corner is Gozobi , a colorful and eclectic restaurant with a huge rooftop and well-priced contemporary Mexican menu. We had dinner here on our last night and loved the grilled octopus in black squid ink and seafood risotto.

Just to the east of the historic center is the colorful and vibrant district of Jalatlaco. Even though it’s one of the oldest districts in Oaxaca, it’s becoming the hippest area in the city . 

Wander through the cobblestoned streets, admiring the mural art, and stopping at one of the many cafes or restaurants for a bite to eat. The district has an artsy feel, thanks to the art studios and galleries that line its streets. Exploring this area is definitely one of the most fun things to do in Oaxaca for photographers and Instagram fans.

To the north of the historic center (across the highway) lies Xochimilco, the oldest neighborhood in Oaxaca . It’s also chocked full of multihued houses, street art and narrow cobbled alleys. A spot worth checking out is the 18th century aqueduct that runs along Callejon Rufino Tamayo.

Our absolute favorite restaurant in Oaxaca is also located here: Ancestral Cocina Tradicional serves reimagined Oaxacan dishes made from locally grown products and ingredients in a beautiful setting. In 2021 and again in 2022, the restaurant was recognized by the the Mexico Gastronomic Guide of Culinary Mexicana as one of the 250 top and best restaurants in Mexico.  Book your table here.

Held in July each year, Guelaguetza is the biggest festival in Oaxac a. Its arrival is highly anticipated, with various events that occur for weeks leading up to the start of the festival.

The Guelaguetza festival in Oaxaca predates the Spanish conquest, and continues to be the most important celebration for the indigenous population in Oaxaca. Its name is overtly indigenous in origin too, coming from the Zapotec, which loosely translated means ‘reciprocal exchange of gifts and services’.

Traditionally, Guelaguetza was a religious celebration honoring Centéotl, the goddess of maize, to ensure a bountiful harvest. In fact, to this day people from across Oaxaca gather in the Jardín del Pañuelito to elect a local woman to play the role of Centéotl. The main events occur on two consecutive Mondays, Los Lunes del Cerro (The Mondays of the Hill), at the Guelaguetza Auditorium. 

Oaxaca is home to the some of the biggest Day of the Dead celebrations in Mexico . We’ve celebrated Day of the Dead in Mexico City too and can safely say that the Oaxaca Dia de Muertos celebrations are much more rooted in tradition. Visiting the cemetery at night was an amazingly spiritual experience, as it was amazing to see families gathering under the candlelight with food, drinks and music to celebrate their loved ones.

Like any celebration in Oaxaca, there are incredible parades and other events throughout the city. During the day, the entire city is awash in the festivities, with altars and flower decorations taking over the buildings. On top of the visits to cemeteries and parades, there are colorful sand tapestries around the city, special foods for the occasion, mega altars, and outdoor markets. Read my guide to celebrating Day of the Dead in Oaxaca .

Things to Do Around Oaxaca

One of the most popular things to do in Oaxaca is to do a day trip to the ancient Monte Alban ruins just outside the city. Built by the Zapotecs, this is one of the most impressive  archaeological sites  in all of Latin America. 

The ancient city was built on the hilltop to the southwest of Oaxaca, and from here, you can get spectacular views of the Sierra Madre mountains. Unlike other famous ruins like Chichen Itza, you can actually climb the Monte Alban pyramids. From the top, you can see the sheer scale of the pyramids, temples, and ball courts. Read my guide to these Oaxaca pyramids .

As at any archaeological site, hiring a guide can give you much deeper insights to the Zapotec civilization. We drove our car rental here and it was an easy 20-minute drive from the center. But if you don’t have transport, it’s wise to book a guided tour as you will have transport and guide included. Book this simple half-day tour or a full-day tour that covers lunch and visits to artisan workshops.

One of the most unique geological formations I’ve ever seen, Hierve el Agua was a highlight of our Oaxaca road trip . The mineral formations that resemble cascading waterfalls are absolutely unique, and the natural springs and pools are a refreshing place to cool off after a hike. Read my guide to Hierve el Agua.

While the name Hierve el Agua means “boiling water” in Spanish, the water can actually be a bit cold. It’s still nice and refreshing to take a dip, especially after hiking. There are short trails that weave all around the various pools and to the bottom of the falls. You don’t need to be fit to walk them; my 7-year-old loved traipsing up and down the trails. Most of the trails lead to glorious views of the stunning valley.

Hierve el Agua was closed for a period of time due to disputes between the ejido owners, but it is now opened to the public once again. It is a popular spot and gets crowded pretty fast, so try to get there as early as you can. It’s a 1.5-hour drive and it opens at 7am, it’s worth getting up early.

TIP: If you don’t have transport, I suggest booking a tour as and there is no public transport. You can get there by taxi for around 600 MXN (US$30). This day tour costs just 850 MXN (US$42.5)and brings you also to Mitla.

If you’re heading to Hierve el Agua , definitely make a stop here on your way back to Oaxaca. Mitla is just a 30-minute drive from Hierve el Agua and it’s known for its archaeological site.

While Monte Alban was the political centre for the Zapotecs, Mitla was the religious centre. Mitla archaeological site features intricate geometric patterns and designs carved into the stone walls, which are believed to have had religious significance for the Zapotec people. Its name comes from the Nahuatl word meaning the place of the dead, or the underworld.

Right outside the archaeological site is a big market where handmade crafts and textiles are on sale. This is also a great spot to get some local food, snacks or icecream.

Another worthwhile stop enroute back to Oaxaca is Teotitlán del Valle, 30 minutes from Mitla by car. This artisan village has gained fame for its traditional Zapotec weaving techniques and colorful textiles. In the local workshops, you can learn about the process of making the textiles. We visited the Centro de Arte Textil Zapoteco Bii Dauu and learned how they use natural dyes made from plants, insects, and minerals to create yarn that is then woven into textiles.

On the road back to Oaxaca city, stop at the Tree of Tule, a massive Montezuma cypress tree that has the world’s widest trunk with a diameter of 46 feet (14m). It takes at least 30 people to wrap around it. 

According to scientists, the Tule tree is almost 2,000 years old. But the Zapotec people believe that the Wind God Ehécatl sowed the seeds of the tree around 1,400 years ago. Today, you can still find it standing tall in front of the Templo Santa María de la Asunción  church in the pueblo (small town) of Santa Maria del Tule, in the peripheries of Oaxaca city.

TIP: You can easily combine Hierve el Agua, Mitla, Teotitlan del Valle and the Tule tree into one day trip. We did that on our own as we had a rental car. If you don’t drive, check out this day tour that brings you to all four sites.

Oaxaca is known to produce some of the best mezcal in Mexico. Mezcal has a unique, smoky taste I absolutely love, thanks to the underground roasting of the plant. Currently undergoing a revival of sorts, mezcal is gaining fame all around the world, even though it’s long been popular in Mexico.

The backcountry of Oaxaca is dotted with plenty of mezcalerias where you can learn about the production process from local farmers and taste different kinds of mezcal. But some can be pretty tacky and inauthentic. For a more genuine and immersive experience, join this tour to visit an artisanal local farm where you get to walk in the agave fields and watch how the farmer harvests the agave. This highly-rated experience is one of the best things to do in Oaxaca for couples and solo travelers.

Here are a few mezcalerias in Oaxaca where you can visit on your own:

• El Rey de Matatlán — El Rey de Matatlán is one of the oldest and most respected distilleries in Tlacolula (where many distilleries are concentrated). Granted, it’s a hot spot on the tour-bus circuit, but the smoky-flavored mezcal is authentic.
• Real Minero — This family-run distillery that has been making mezcal for over four generations. Their tours and tastings are a great way to learn about the artisanal production process and sample some truly exceptional mezcals.
• Shluuna Parador Ecoturístico & Fábrica de Mezcal — A beautiful agave farm with a mountainous setting, where a guide can bring you on hikes and show you how mezcal is produced here.

With a large indigenous population, Oaxaca has a rich handicraft-making tradition. The villages that surround the city all specialize in a different form of artisanal work. If you want to understand more of Oaxacan life or buy souvenirs, these art towns in Oaxaca are the places you need to go.

The most popular art villages are:

• San Bartolo Coyotepec — 20 minutes south of Oaxaca centro, this is where the famous barro negro (black clay) comes from, and many artisans live here and display their work in the numerous workshops here.
• San Martín Tilcajete — This town 40 minutes south is famous for their alebrijes. Alebrijes are crafted from either paper maché or carved from wood, and at first glance, they appear to be animal figures. However, upon closer inspection, you’ll discover that each figure is a combination of several animals. The wooden Oaxacan alebrijes, which have become incredibly popular, were first created by artist Manuel Jiménez Ramírez, As each one is handmade, no two alebrijes are alike. 
• Santo Tomás Jalieza Oaxaca — Further south, this town is known for its textiles. Here 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.

TIP: As these three villages are located all along Hwy175 south of Oaxaca, you can easily visit all three in a day trip. I suggest booking this private tour of the artisan villages where a guide can share his knowledge on the artisanal history of the area.

Once considered the capital of the Zapotecs, the Zaachila ruins often tend to be overlooked by tourists. The exact history is still debated, but it’s generally believed that the Zapotecs and Mixtecs occupied the region from the 1100s until Spanish conquistadors arrived in 1521. Much of the Zaachila ruins remain unexplored because most of the ancient city are still buried underneath people’s current homes. The ruins are located just 30 minutes outside of Oaxaca City and have a couple of tombs with well-preserved carvings.

To get to Zaachila, simply go to the Central de Abastos market in Oaxaca to grab a bus or  colectivo share taxi. We recommend heading there on a Thursday to see the local market. At Dia de los Muertos, the streets of Zaachila are decorated with elaborate sand tapestries that lead the dead ones from the cemetery to their home.

At the end of our Oaxaca trip, book yourself a temazcal session to experience the indigenous practice. A temazcal is not just a sweat lodge, it is an ancient Mayan purifying and healing ritual. Traditionally, it takes place in a dome-shaped structure made of adobe or stone, heated with hot stones and water.

During a temazcal ceremony, participants enter the dome-shaped structure and sit in a circle around the center, where the hot stones are placed. An experienced guide leads the ceremony, pouring water onto the hot stones to create steam and chanting or reciting prayers. The heat and humidity inside the temazcal are believed to help purify the body, eliminate toxins, and promote relaxation and mental clarity.

The best place to go in the city is  Ceviarem Temazcal Oaxaca , but you’ll want to make sure to reserve a spot well ahead of time as they tend to fill up. 

Oaxaca Travel Guide

The most convenient way to get to Oaxaca is by flying into the Oaxaca International Airport (OAX), located just outside of the city. The small airport serves mainly domestic destinations (Mexico City, Guadalajara, Monterrey), but also has flights from Los Angeles, Houston and Dallas.

Direct flights from Los Angeles to Oaxaca cost around US$300 return. Flights from Mexico City to Oaxaca cost only $50 return(1hour). Budget travelers can also just take a bus from the Terminal de Autobuses del Sur in Mexico City to Oaxaca; it takes 6-7 hours depending on traffic. Pre-book your bus tickets here .

If you’re staying in Oaxaca’s historic center, you can get around mostly on foot. Many Oaxaca attractions are within walking distance of each other. Exploring the city on foot also allows you to soak up the local atmosphere and discover hidden spots that you might miss if you’re in a car or bus.

If you’re just exploring Oaxaca city, you won’t need a car. Traffic within the center can be crazy and navigating the narrow, clogged streets is stressful. I recommend hiring a car only if you intend to do a Oaxaca road trip and explore the coast. We rented a car for our entire 10 days in Oaxaca , but hardly used it in the city as we walked everywhere. 

I always book my car rental from  Discover Cars  as they offer the best prices and excellent customer service. An  economy rental car in Oaxaca  costs around $100 for a whole week, which is  less than $20 a day . The current price for gas is 23.50 MXN (around $1) per liter.

C heck Car Rental Prices

You can easily flag down a taxi from anywhere in Oaxaca, but taxi drivers tend to jack up the price with foreigners. It helps a lot if you speak Spanish. Make sure you negotiate and agree on a rate before starting the ride. 

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. Download DiDi Rider for  iPhone .

To really experience everything that Oaxaca has to offer, I recommend spending at least 4-5 days in Oaxaca . This will give you enough time to explore the historic center, visit the museums and galleries, and venture out of the city to see the stunning natural beauty of the surrounding area. We spent 10 days in Oaxaca and the coast and still wished we had more time!

The best time to visit Oaxaca is from October to April , when the weather is dry and mild. This is also the time of year when many of the city’s festivals and cultural events. 

In general, Oaxaca has a desert climate with hot days and cool nights. Pack a light jacket regardless of the time you visit as the temperature drops drastically in the evening.

The busiest time of the year runs from late October for the  Day of the Dead , through mid-January. It’s also crowded in July, when Oaxaca celebrates the Guelaguetza, the biggest Oaxaca festival.

Oaxaca is generally considered a safe destination for travelers. According to Mexico’s National Institute of Statistics and Geography, the state of Oaxaca had a homicide rate of 8.6 per 100,000 inhabitants in 2023, lower than the national average. The state government also reports that the number of homicides decreased by 33% from 2022 to 2023. 

However, it’s worth noting that as with any destination, there is still a risk of crime, particularly in certain areas and at certain times. Petty theft, such as pickpocketing, is one of the most common types of crime reported in Oaxaca. Travelers should also be cautious when traveling on highways at night or in isolated areas, as there have been reports of armed robberies. 

Luxury: Hacienda Los Laureles

Located just outside of the city, Hacienda Los Laureles is a peaceful oasis surrounded by lush gardens and fruit trees. Cool whitewashed walls, terracotta floors, and wrought-iron furniture lend a rustic authenticity. Check rates here.

Luxury: Parador San Miguel Oaxaca

This historic hotel, housed in a restored 16th-century mansion, is a true icon of Oaxaca City. The rooms are spacious and elegantly decorated, with antique furnishings and traditional artwork. The hotel also boasts a beautiful courtyard and rooftop terrace. Check rates here.

Mid Range: Hotel Azul de Oaxaca

We stayed at this beautiful boutique hotel with a central but quiet location. The stylish and modern hotel with a focus on sustainability and local art. The rooms are bright and colorful, and the hotel’s restaurant is known for its innovative takes on traditional Oaxacan cuisine. Check rates.

Mid Range: Hotel Casa Antigua

Just 2 blocks from the central Zócalo Square, Hotel Casa Antigua is a restored 19th-century house with a traditional central courtyard. The hotel’s rooftop restaurant serves delicious breakfasts and dinners using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Most things to do in Oaxaca are steps from this hotel. Check rates here.

Budget: Paulina Youth Hostel

A great budget option for travelers looking for a clean and comfortable place to stay in Oaxaca. Located in the heart of the historic center, the hostel offers private rooms and dorms at very affordable rates. Check rates.

Oaxaca is a culinary powerhouse, and you can have an equally amazing experience eating at a street-side stand as you would at a fine dining establishment. One thing’s for sure, you’ll never go hungry in Oaxaca!

TIP : The best restaurants in Oaxaca get booked up quickly, so make sure to reserve a table in advance especially if you’re traveling at high season.

Tlayudas Libres Doña Martha

One of the best things to do in Oaxaca is eating street food. This streetside stand on Calle de los Libres has a loyal following. Their tlayudas sizzle with pork lard and drip with the perfect combination of melted Oaxacan cheese and grilled meat. They’re open early, it’s a great spot for a traditional Mexican breakfast ! Find its location here.

Itanoní Flor del Maiz

One of the best places in Oaxaca for a rustic and genuine culinary experience. The setup is humble with women cooking over the comal (flat metal pan), and serving up memelas made with heirloom-corn tortillas, rich pozole and a three-chile mole. Read reviews.

Los Danzantes  

With locations in Oaxaca City and nearby San Agustin Etla, Los Danzantes is a popular restaurant and mezcal distillery that serves contemporary Mexican dishes with unique Oaxacan flavors. Its gorgeous setting right next to Templo de Santo Domingo makes it a hot favorite. Book your table here.

Ancestral Cocina Tradicional 

This restaurant in Xochimilco serves reinvented Oaxacan dishes, prepared with locally grown produce and ingredients in a beautiful setting. In 2021 and again in 2022, the restaurant was recognized by the the Mexico Gastronomic Guide of Culinary Mexicana as one of the 250 top and best restaurants in Mexico.  Book our table.

Las Quince Letras

Las Quince Letras is one of our favorite places to eat at in Oaxaca for the traditional menu and surprisingly good prices. The proudly Oaxacan restaurant is famous for its seven moles. You can even try 2/3 moles at once with their duo/triologia de moles.

I hope you’ve found this list of things to do in Oaxaca city useful! Let me know in the comments field below if there are any other fun activities in Oaxaca worth adding to this article. Oaxaca truly is the cultural heart of Mexico, with so many fascinating museums, sensory-overloading markets and outstanding restaurants to make any trip here a fulfilling one.

For those who are planning to travel more of Mexico, check out other articles I’ve written on Mexico:

• Oaxaca Road Trip: My 10-Day Oaxaca Itinerary
• Oaxaca Day of the Dead Guide
• The Ultimate Day of the Dead Guide
• Monte Alban: My Guide to the Oaxaca Pyramids
• Hierve el Agua: Oaxaca Waterfalls Guide
• 25 Mexican Antojitos to Try in Mexico

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2 thoughts on “30 Cool Things to Do in Oaxaca City [2024]”

Very well written and I really love all the tips!

Aww thank you for dropping by and for the kind comment!

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13 Out-Of-This-World Things to Do in Oaxaca

Known for its delicious food (hello, mole!), colorful streets, access to beautiful ruins, and its festive Day of the Dead celebration, the best things to do in Oaxaca, Mexico are as varied as they are interesting.

During our trip, the city ended up stealing our hearts–and whenever we find ourselves dreaming of Mexican food, we often start absentmindedly searching for plane tickets to Oaxaca.

Planning a visit soon and wondering what to do in Oaxaca? We’ve covered all the best things to see here, including both spots in Oaxaca City (in Spanish, Oaxaca de Juarez) and those that are easy to visit as day trips from Oaxaca.

Table of Contents

The Best Things to Do in Oaxaca City (+ Nearby!)

Where to stay in oaxaca, about organized day trips from oaxaca, don’t forget travel insurance.

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

Visit Monte Alban.

The abandoned city of Monte Alban is, in our opinion, even prettier than Teotihuacan near Mexico City –which is impressive, given how much we love the first!

Monte Alban is one of the earliest cities in Mesoamerica, and is believed to have been one of the major cultural centers of the Zapotecs. Visiting is one of the most popular things to do in Oaxaca, and it’s easy to see why!

You can see mountains on all sides of Monte Alban, and ruins all around you–in every direction, there’s nothing but views: the past at eye-level, and the present in the cities occupying the valleys below.

Wander through the center of Oaxaca City and visit the Zocalo.

Oaxaca’s main square is enormous and is easily the perfect first item to add to a list of things to do in Oaxaca.

The gigantic shade trees make it a welcome break from the sun, the balloon sellers throughout the square add eye-catching splashes of color in every direction, and the hawkers are some of the politest that we have come across–they all asked us once, and only once if we wanted to buy anything before moving on.

Prices at the restaurants surrounding the square are a little inflated as compared to other parts of the city, of course–but it’s still worth grabbing a meal here just to people-watch in the square.

Taste some Mezcal.

Taking a Mezcal tour is an incredibly fun way to spend an afternoon in Oaxaca!

In exchange for listening to a sales pitch at the end of the tour, we were able to see each step of the Mezcal process, from the beheaded corpses of fresh agave plants all the way to the finished product.

The tour finished with a Mezcal tasting (which is not to be confused with Tequila– Mezcal and Tequila are very different)–our guide was liberal with the pours, and if you would like, you just may be able to try half a dozen versions of Mezcal.

If you’re not interested in touring a factory, don’t worry: Mezcal is available at just about any restaurant in Oaxaca.

Sample mole.

All of the incredible foods to eat in Oaxaca could justify an entire blog post in their own right, but no other food is as iconically Oaxacan as mole.

Intricate and complex, mole is both delicious and varied (Oaxaca has 7 definitive versions , though each recipe is unique), and well worth devouring with… well, just about anything.

Check out the Templo de Santo Domingo.

Oaxaca’s most famous cathedral is located in the north of town and is never absent from any list of the best things to do in Oaxaca–for good reason.

Situated with a small square in front and botanical gardens to the rear, the area surrounding the church (despite its draw for tourists) is much quieter and more peaceful than the Zocalo to the south–a perfect area to relax in.

Take a cooking class.

What better way to explore a region renowned worldwide for its cuisine than by learning a bit about cooking it yourself?

This cooking class will not only teach you how to cook Oaxacan dishes (complete with plenty of eating) but also includes a market tour.

Book your Oaxacan cooking class today!

Visit the Ethnobotanic Garden.

Oaxaca’s botanical gardens are peaceful and pretty (as all botanical gardens should be), and have a different twist than many flower-focused gardens: a lot more cacti, for one!

Located right next door to the Templo de Santo Domingo, it’s not hard to find a chance to cross this off your list of Oaxaca attractions to visit.

Check out the Oaxaca Cultural Museum.

Oaxaca is the most culturally diverse state in Mexico, and it shows in this museum.

Artifacts spanning many periods and cultures are displayed here, emphasizing individual cultures and, of course, the impact of Spanish colonialism.

The museum is attached to the Templo de Santo Domingo, in what was once the monastery–meaning that the building is a museum artifact itself!

Fair warning: all of the signs in the museum are in Spanish. I stumbled through the best I could, but Google translate was my friend.

I have no doubt that I would have gotten more out of the museum with more advanced Spanish, though the artifacts alone are enough to make it worth stopping by.

Tour Mitla.

One of the best day trips from Oaxaca, the stunning and intricate ruins of Mitla are one of the best places to visit near Oaxaca City.

Mitla is a religious and cultural center for the Zapotecs, dating after Monte Alban was abandoned.

Our guide referred to the style as “Greek” because of the geometric patterns that dominated what remains of Mitla–the detailed work is mesmerizing and well worth spending some extra time admiring.

Much of Mitla was torn down when the Spanish arrived in order to build the cathedral that now overlooks what is left of the city–but the remains are more than enough to be impressed by the incredible amount of craftsmanship that went into creating Mitla.

Enjoy the festivals.

Oaxaca is well known for its exuberant celebrations, and luckily for travelers, they happen all the time.

Jeremy and I didn’t remotely try to plan our trip around any festivals, but that didn’t stop us from hearing fireworks going off every night, seeing the Zocalo covered in people dancing a tango, or stumbling into two different parades, or seeing people performing on stage almost every night we were in town.

A little research showed us that we were most likely seeing preliminary celebrations for the Fiesta de la Virgen de Guadalupe and/or the Fiesta de la Soledad–and, of course, Christmas, for which a Christmas tree taller than the nearby cathedral was being built near the Zocalo when we were there.

Of course, the most famous festival in Oaxaca is its famous Day of the Dead Celebration, which is considered to be one of the most incredible in all of Mexico.

Go shopping at the Mercado 20 de Noviembre.

Whether you want to buy artisanal souvenirs or simply eat your heart out, the Mercado 20 de Noviembre is one of the best places to visit in Oaxaca!

Sip hot chocolate.

Oaxacan hot chocolate is spiced with cinnamon and is famous for a reason–it is absolutely delicious! Don’t leave town without sampling a cup.

Fall in love with Hierve el Agua.

I saved my favorite of all the fun things to do in Oaxaca for last.

Hierve el Agua is a petrified waterfall, and the area you visit in order to view it is filled with pools formed of the same calcium carbonate that created the “falls”.

Stand and look forward from the pools, and you will see the gorgeous mountains opening up before you–the view is irresistible.

The area is extraordinarily peaceful, and while there is a small changing area and bathroom nearby, the expected food stalls and souvenir stands are out of sight, and a 10-minute hike up a fairly steep hill from where the pools are located, leaving the entire area feeling less commercial than it could.

Sadly, Hierve el Agua is a couple of hours from Oaxaca City by car–but it is a must-see and one of the best day trips from Oaxaca. This is, hands down, our favorite thing that we saw while in the region, and our only regret is that we weren’t able to stay longer.

November 2021 Update : After a period of closure, Hierve el Agua has now reopened !

When deciding where to stay in Oaxaca, we recommend looking for something centrally located, within walking distance of the Zocalo and the Templo de Santo Domingo. From there, Oaxaca City is easy to explore on foot, and transportation outside of the city is easy to reach!

Prices are most expensive when events are going on, especially the legendary Day of the Dead festival–if you plan to visit Oaxaca for the Day of the Dead, we strongly recommend booking as far in advance as possible.

Here are a few well-reviewed hotels that are fantastic places to stay in Oaxaca.

Hotel Oaxaca Magico — This hotel was exactly what we were looking for during our first trip to Oaxaca: clean and in a great location.

A budget hotel means a small room, but the 10-minute walk to the Zocalo, daily maid service/replacement of toiletries, and overall smooth experience left the tiny room in the back of our minds. We would be happy to stay here again!

Check rates & book your stay at Hotel Oaxaca Magico!

Hotel Suites del Centro  — Located just a 5-minute walk from the Zocalo and boasting excellent reviews, these small apartments all feature a kitchenette.

The property boasts a beautiful terrace, and there is free parking on-site for travelers who would like to explore the surrounding area independently!

Check rates & book your stay at Hotel Suites del Centro!

Casa Antonieta  — For spacious luxury in the heart of Oaxaca, check into Casa Antonieta, where you’ll find gorgeous furnishings, excellent customer service, a walkable location, and a beautiful terrace to relax on.

With fantastic reviews and a popular breakfast option, Casa Antonieta is the perfect base for exploring the best things to do in Oaxaca.

Check rates & book your stay at Casa Antonieta!

We took a one day tour from Oaxaca, which included visiting Hierve el Agua, a Mezcal factory, Mitla, a wool rug craftsman, and the Tule tree (the last two aren’t on this list because we found them dull–the first is a predictable sales pitch and the second is a large tree that is not worth seeking out on your own).

The cost was 200 pesos per person and included all transportation and an excellent guide for Mitla.

A few other entrance fees (totaling less than $10/person) were required to be paid on the tour, and though not technically “required”, the buffet lunch that the tour pauses for are predictably overpriced (about $7/person, but very tasty).

The tour fulfilled our needs and seemed to be available at a similar price to every tourism agency in town.

You can also book a very similar tour online if you’re partial to paying in advance–but as you can see, you’ll pay less if you book on the ground in Oaxaca.

Check prices and inclusions for Oaxaca day trips today!

The downside was our limited time of about one hour at Hierve de Agua.

Next time, we will rent a car and go independently for the day as it was one of our absolute favorite things to do in Oaxaca, though the mountain roads to access it are very windy–be prepared for a bit of an adventure if you want to drive.

Shop rental cars for your trip to Oaxaca today!

Tours are also available to visit Monte Alban, though I wouldn’t recommend taking one unless you really want a guide with you.

Monte Alban is about 30 minutes outside of the city, and shuttles that will sell round-trip transportation for 70 pesos/person are everywhere.

The Oaxaca City bus is also an option if you want to stick to a very low budget, but my tendency to get motion sickness made me very grateful for the direct and simple transportation.

We don’t ever suggest traveling without insurance–anything can happen, and this is definitely a case of better safe than sorry.

Traveling to Mexico is generally safe, of course, but it also likely involves stepping outside your comfort zone and trying out new adventures in a foreign land… where you may or may not speak the language.

We use and recommend Safety Wing for trips to Mexico.

Shop travel insurance for your trip to Oaxaca today!

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

33 thoughts on “13 Out-Of-This-World Things to Do in Oaxaca”

Great post! We’re thinking about going. We checked out Mexico City this past year but almost went to Oaxaca and think we might like to make it over in 2018! How did you get to Hierve el Agua and how much time do you recommend spending there?

We definitely recommend it! Oaxaca is awesome, as is Hierve el Agua. We visited Hierve el Agua as part of a day trip that included several stops (we booked it in person), but we’d recommend trying to find one that focuses on Hierve el Agua specifically if you can–we didn’t have nearly as much time there as we had wanted.

I’d only recommend driving yourself if you’re very confident with the directions and mountain roads–it’s about 2 hours of driving, a lot of it on very winding roads with blindspots, from Oaxaca City to Hierve el Agua! 🙂

Who did you book your tour with? The people around the zocalo quote a price and then if you call the agency it is 3x higher. Know a cheap car rental? Thankyou for your post

We booked in person near the Zocalo, but no idea of an agency name–doubt we ever learned it at the time, it was a very casual transaction.

Enjoy your trip!

Hi, thanks for your post. I’d like to ask which agency did you use for day tour from Oaxaca? Thank you 🙂

Hi Barbora! I honestly have no idea–it was just one of the generic ones in the main square of town. 🙂

Hi Kate!! Thank you for this awesome post! My boyfriend and I are going to Oaxaca this week for a wedding and were trying to decide what to do on our free day. This definitely helped us decide on seeing Hierve el Agua! =)

You guys made an excellent choice! Hierve el Agua is such an epic spot. 😀

Thank you for your post. We are looking to do a road trip starting in Puebla or Oaxaca , spending 10 -12 days in January in the region to include beach town, villages, culture, national park and fly back either from Puebla or Oaxaca airports. we are 7 in total looking for special places and experiences not interested in the tourist attractions too much. and would probably rent a minivan . We do not want to drive all day so no issues in staying i several places and doing tours from each place. Looking forward for you wonderful advice.

We haven’t taken that road trip, but I can tell you that around the Oaxaca area we strongly recommend making time for Hierve el Agua and Mitla.

We also loved the beach/surf town of Puerto Escondido, and would love to go back–can recommend a stop there as well!

Tip, for anyone else interested in visiting Hierve el Agua. We didn’t fancy going on one of the tours that stopped at several different places so instead booked with Go Well tours – a little more expensive but well worth it for a private tour and a lovely couple running it – this gave us half a day hiking around Hierve el Agua, lots of time to swim, a lovely picnic and then a visit to Mitla on the way back. I did look into ways to get there by public transport but it sounded a little too complicated for my first visit.

Yes, getting to Hierve el Agua on public tranport is a bit complex for the first time and especially if you are not able to communicate in spanish but overall, it is cheaper than the private tours and gives your more liberty on what to do. You have to find a taxi (public transport) or bus that takes you to mitla, then you find the trucks that take you to hierve el agua close to the central bus station. You get on and they will take you up to your destination. It is important to note that they will likely make you wait until other people come to make sure they make the most on their trip. Sometimes I’ve had to wait up to about 40 minutes so if you don’t have the time, this might not be for you. I have gotten a bit nauseous being in the back of the truck, sometimes I prefer to go on the front seats (just a little tip)

Thank you for the article – just super reading. I’m going to be in Oaxaca for around 10 days over Christmas and New Year. Do you have a sense of what will be open for tourists during that time and if guides will be available? And thank you so much for highlighting Hierve el Agua – not in either of my guidebooks!

We were actually there at a similar time ourselves–just before Christmas. Everything should be operating more or less normally, with the usual expected closures for Christmas Day, etc. In the weeks surrounding Christmas, though, you’ll definitely find guides!

Definitely head to Hierve el Agua if you can! Of all the places in and near Oaxaca, it’s the one we’re most excited to eventually get back to. 🙂

Hi, Kate – Thank you for this VERY informative post! I’m going to Oaxaca with a small group of friends later this month, and you’ve given us some great guidelines for top things to see in town — and we will now definitely make plans to go out to Hierve el Agua! LOL, we were mainly going for the food, as one of our group is a world-traveling foodie, but I’m the “art person” of the group and will now do some research on the Templo and the museum. I also hear there are many art galleries in town?

Hi Ganieda! Thank you so much, glad we could help!

The food truly is amazing, we still miss it all the time.

I do remember seeing quite a few galleries around, but honestly, I was more like your friend and focused more on the food, so no specific recommendations there, I’m afraid!

Thank you for your suggestions! Can you recommend how many days you think is needed to explore all these spots comfortably? Trying to figure out how many days I should take off from work haha. Also, do you have suggestions for any other day trips that you didn’t get to go to that you thought would be nice? Something a few hours outside of Oaxaca that can still be done in a day? Thank you!

Hmm… I’d say probably a minimum of four full days to be comfortable? Two for the city, one for Hierve el Agua and Mitla, and one for Monte Alban, more or less. But a few more days would definitely be helpful!

I’ve heard that the Yagul ruins are also nice, but we didn’t make it there ourselves. Personally, if we were going back, our first priority would be to dedicate more time to each Mitla and Hierve el Agua, as we felt like we didn’t spend enough time at either!

Great recommendations but in addition I think that a cooking class with visit of a market is a great introduction to Oaxaca’s famous food. I tried 3 and my favourite is Alma de mi Tierra.

Oooh, sounds delicious! Agreed, we love everything having to do with food when we travel.

Great post! and thanks for all the great information! I am very excited, I am visiting Oaxaca in May, can’t wait to visit all these places you are recommending!

Thanks, Yesi! Hope you have a great trip to Oaxaca!

I’m thinking of going in late May. Would you say it’s safe for a female solo traveler? I would like to know more about transportation? It’s been recommended to me to travel there.

I haven’t personally visited as a solo female traveler, but I know lots of women who have visited Oaxaca alone and absolutely loved it (I even know one who loved it so much she moved there).

If you’re staying in the center, you’ll be able to walk to most of the major highlights in town. Shuttles and/or buses will get you to various day trips around the area.

very informative post. I do not think $7 per person at a buffet is overpriced, especially if the food was enjoyable. I paid $20 per person at our hotel, now thats overpiced!

Fyi Hierve El Agua is now closed to the public indefinitely.

Thanks for the update, I just looked into it. I’ll make a note in the post!

Hi, I love your post. Yes, Hierve el agua is closed. I am travelling to Oaxaca early march 2022. How you recomend me a good place to visit a chamán? Thanks Rey

I cannot find a tour with Viator or other under 450 pesos without admission. 200 sounds really cheap for a 12 h day trip. The hot springs are open again maybe that’s why the increase?

It’s generally MUCH cheaper to book on the ground in Oaxaca than through an aggregator, that’s probably why. That’s not the case in all countries (we use Get Your Guide all the time ourselves), but in many parts of Latin America, you tend to pay a very steep premium for booking in advance. It has been a few years since our trip as well. 🙂

I recently visited Oaxaca and decided to hike from the centre of the city to Monte Alban. There isn’t really a defined route, it’s just along the side of the road, but definitely doable and took a little over 90 minutes. Along the way, you get great views out over the Oaxaca valley. You pass through some colourful suburbs on the way up the mountain, which then give way to agave plantations. Bring lots of water!

I am going sometime in October 2022 for a girls 50th birthday trip. Is Hierve el Agua open again? If we can do Hierve el Ague and Mitla in one day….Can we do Monte Alban and a Mezcal tour together? Any recommendations for a Mezcal tour?

To the best of my knowledge Hierve el Agua is open again! It re-opened earlier this year.

I’m not sure of any tours that include Monte Alban and Mezcal together, but you may be able to find one on the ground. Monte Alban is also very close to Oaxaca (15-20 minutes), so it doesn’t necessarily have to be a full-day trip.

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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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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

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 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

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

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)

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.

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

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)

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

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

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 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

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

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 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

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

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)

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)

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)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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 .

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

🚕 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.

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.

10 things to know before going to Oaxaca, one of Mexico's most intriguing destinations

Jan 24, 2024 • 6 min read

From booking ahead to what to pack, plan your trip to Oaxaca with this know-before-you-go info © Monica Rodriguez / Getty Images

Cultural capital Oaxaca 's combo of authentic regional flavor and big-city grit makes it one of the most intriguing destinations in Mexico .

So whether you're hanging in atmospheric mezcal bars or embracing soulful Day of the Dead festivities, these top tips should serve you well.

Here are 10 things you should know when planning your trip to Oaxaca City.

1. Book ahead for Día de Muertos and Guelaguetza

Reserve accommodations months in advance if you plan on visiting in November for Día de Muertos (Day of the Dead) or in July for the Guelaguetza Festival (a renowned cultural event showcasing Oaxaca's folkloric dance and music).

Sure, room rates are pricier this time of year, but the city’s impressive array of lodging options caters to all budgets, from affordable hostels and guesthouses in spacious old homes to brilliant B&Bs and non-franchise boutique hotels in the heart of the historic center.

2. Safety: don't let the headlines spook you

Despite the much-publicized news about Mexico's drug-related violence, Oaxaca remains a relatively safe place to visit.

Of course it's wise to take common-sense safety precautions, as you would anywhere else, but in general, tourists in Mexico rarely get caught up in disputes between rival drug gangs and that's especially true for Oaxaca, a state that has been mostly spared from the violence. 

The US State Department currently has no travel restrictions in place for Oaxaca City, and surrounding areas such as weaving village Teotitlán del Valle , the remote mountain towns of the Sierra Norte and most of the coastal region are considered safe for travelers. 

3. Don't drive in Oaxaca's historic center

Driving in Oaxaca City requires patience, particularly in the hectic historic center, where traffic snarls and a lack of street parking can make life miserable.

You'll be much better off on foot when exploring the Centro's noteworthy sights such as the world-class Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca .

Many downtown streets do not have stop signs or traffic lights but most drivers abide by uno por uno  etiquette, meaning the first vehicle to arrive at an intersection has the right of way.

Beyond city limits, traffic is usually light but expect a fair share of poorly maintained roads with a slew of potholes and unmarked speed bumps.

Also, be aware that protesters regularly stage blockades in Oaxaca. If you come across a roadblock, seek an alternative route or you may find yourself stuck for hours.

When renting a vehicle, always take out liability insurance, known in Spanish as daños a terceros . Walk-in car rentals in Oaxaca start at about M$800 per day with liability coverage included, but you can often find better deals online. Most major credit cards provide free collision coverage for auto rentals.

4. Sip, don't shoot mezcal

When bellying up to a mezcal bar, keep in mind that the distilled agave drink packs quite a punch (usually 45% to 50% alcohol content) and it's best sipped slowly to fully appreciate its distinctive aromatic taste.

Duck into a classic mezcalería such as In Situ to savor the flavor of artisanal mezcals. 

For day trips out to mezcal country in nearby Santiago Matatlán, consider booking a tour with the experts at Experience Agave . Alternatively, if you foresee a boozy DIY romp, you can always leave the driving to a taxi for about M$500 each way. Salud!

5. Take day trips to explore beyond Oaxaca City

With all its museums, art galleries, uniquely savory cuisine and intoxicating nightlife, you may never want to leave the city, but trust us when we say day trips enrich the overall experience.

For a taste of traditional Oaxaca, venture out to the ancient Zapotec ruins of Monte Albán or head south to visit artisan workshops for an up-close look at how iconic crafts are made, such as alebrijes (surreal wood sculptures based on mythological animals).

6. What to pack: keep it casual and comfy

Even though you'll see fewer people wearing shorts and tank tops in non-beach towns such as Oaxaca City, casual dress is the norm. Don't forget to pack a long-sleeve shirt and long pants for protection against mosquitoes and the sun.

A light jacket is always useful for cool evenings and air-conditioned buses. If you're heading for Oaxaca's sublime tropical coast , take a swimsuit, flip-flops, loose-fitting clothes and insect repellent. For ecotourism outings in the nearby Sierra Norte mountains, bring a heavy jacket.

7. Take your essentials and always carry cash

You'll need a passport for international travel, a driver's license if you're renting a car and credit or debit cards (but always carry cash as some businesses do not accept plastic).

ATMs dispense Mexican pesos and there's usually a 3% international transaction fee tacked on.

You can exchange foreign currency at Oaxaca's international airport or at money exchange offices clustered around the Zócalo , the main square. Most international flights connect through Mexico City.

8. Etiquette: slow down and do the right thing

Oaxacans typically are not sticklers about etiquette but there are several things to be mindful of when interacting with locals. First, remember that life moves at a leisurely pace in this corner of Mexico, so try not to get upset if someone shows up late or if service is slow in a restaurant.

Also, whenever possible, tip generously in restaurants and hotels as gratuities are crucial to the livelihood of workers in Oaxaca, one of the poorest states in Mexico.

Tip 10–15% in restaurants, 5–10% of room costs in a hotel and M$5–10 for parking lot and gas station attendants. Taxi drivers usually do not expect tips, but always welcome them.

When shopping in Oaxaca , prices are fixed in most stores. It's okay to do some friendly haggling with market vendors, but keep a sense of perspective about the amounts you're bargaining over as most folks are just trying to make a living.

9. Don't drink the water, but do eat the street food

Do not drink water from the tap. Instead, purchase bottled water in supermarkets or convenience stores. Most restaurants and hotels serve purified water.

When it comes to street food, it would be a missed opportunity not to take a few risks in a culinary hot spot like Oaxaca. Look no further than the delectable mole tamales at Tamales de San Agustín Yatareni , or the tender pork tacos at the wildly popular Lechoncito de Oro .

You can lessen the chances of getting sick by carrying hand sanitizer and choosing a place to eat that appears to have good hygiene practices.

If you do get a stomach bug,  Hospital Reforma is a decent option with 24-hour medical attention. Call 911 for emergencies.

10. Stay calm: there are frequent earthquakes in Oaxaca 

Oaxaca is located in one of Mexico's most seismically active regions and is prone to frequent (and occasionally strong) earthquakes, but rest assured that most come and go doing little harm.

If you hear the seismic alert system sound, remain calm and move to an open space away from buildings and power lines.

Should a quake hit while you're on the coast, head inland to reach higher ground. 

This article was first published March 2022 and updated January 2024

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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.