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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 Mar 12, 2022 and updated Jan 24, 2024.

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Oaxaca Travel Guide

Last Updated: November 2, 2023

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

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

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

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

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Oaxaca

1. Wander the historic downtown

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

2. Explore Mercado 20 de Noviembre

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

3. See Monte Albán

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

4. Explore Mitla

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

5. Try a street-stall hamberguesa

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

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

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

2. Take a free walking tour

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

3. See the Templo de Santo Domingo

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

4. Wander the Botanical Garden

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

5. Visit Puerto Escondido

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

6. Take a food tour

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

7. Wander the Sunday market

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

8. Try a cooking class

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

9. Go hiking in Sierra Norte

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

10. Experience a Temazcal

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

11. Celebrate Day of the Dead

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

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

• Cancun Travel Guide
• Mexico City Travel Guide

Oaxaca Travel Costs

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Backpacking Oaxaca Suggested Budgets

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

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

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

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

Oaxaca Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

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

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

Where to Stay in Oaxaca

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

• Hostel Central
• El Cielo Oaxaca
• Iguana Hostel Oaxaca
• Azul Cielo Oaxaca

How to Get Around Oaxaca

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

When to Go to Oaxaca

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

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

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

How to Stay Safe in Oaxaca

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Oaxaca Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

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

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

Oaxaca Travel Guide: Related Articles

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

The 5 Best Hotels in Mexico City

The 20 Best Things to Do in Mexico City

The 5 Best Hotels in Oaxaca

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

How to Spend 5 Days in Oaxaca

The 15 Best Things to Do in Oaxaca

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• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

Traveling to Oaxaca City: Your Ultimate Travel Guide [2024]

Planning to visit Oaxaca City, Mexico?

Well then, you’re a wise traveler! I’ve had some of my best Mexico experiences while traveling to Oaxaca, and you will too. (💁‍♀️ In case you were wondering, the correct Oaxaca pronunciation is waa-HA-kah.)

You’ve landed on the right blog for Oaxaca travel info, and with the right blogger, as I live in Oaxaca part time. It is my favorite state in Mexico, and I have a whole website dedicated to it called Travel To Oaxaca .

Living in Oaxaca, I split my time between Oaxaca City , and the beaches of Oaxaca Mexico , from Puerto Escondido to Huatulco to Mazunte . I’ve also attended several two Día de Muertos celebrations.

In this article, you’ll learn everything you need to know about visiting Oaxaca City . If this will be your first Oaxaca trip, you’re going to feel like a Mexico travel pro in no time — so let’s get to it!

TRAVELING TO OAXACA City Mexico

Where is oaxaca mexico located.

Oaxaca state is located in Southern Mexico. It borders several states, with Chiapas state to the east, and Puebla state to the north.

📍 Oaxaca Map

The best beaches in Oaxaca, Mex., including Puerto Escondido , Hautulco , Zipolite , Mazunte , Chacahua and San Agustinillo are located about 165-200 miles (260-320 km) south of the city on the Pacific Coast.

Where is Oaxaca City located?

Oaxaca City is in the center of the state. It is the Oaxaca state capital, as well as the cultural, historic, artistic and agricultural hub of Oaxaca.

You may hear Oaxaca City referred to by a few names. Officially, it’s Oaxaca de Juarez , though most people will just say “Oaxaca.” Oaxaca de Juarez is the capital city of Oaxaca state .

As Oaxaca is both the name of the city and the state, you’ll want to clarify when someone says “Oaxaca,” to find out if they mean the city or the state. Usually, it’s Oaxaca City , but not always.

Where to Stay in Oaxaca City

B est Oaxaca City Hotels

Need recommendations and info about the best Oaxaca hotels?

Head to 17 Best Places to Stay in Oaxaca City for a complete list of the best hotels in Oaxaca Mexico. There are also a few places listed below.

B est Neighborhoods in Oaxaca City

When traveling to Oaxaca City, you’ll want to stay in or around the Zocalo or Centro Historico .

This is the historic city center, and the main area of the city, but there’s also the nearby neighborhoods of Jalatlaco or Xochimilco .

These three Oaxaca City best neighborhoods are right next to one another so it’s easy to get around.

Oaxaca City itself is walkable, and you probably don’t need a Oaxaca car rental if you’re just staying in Oaxaca City.

While there’s no Uber in Oaxaca , there is limited public transportation, and there’s also cabs for when you need to go longer distances.

Best Hotels in Oaxaca City, Mexico

• Quinta Real Oaxaca ($$$$) An authentic Mexican hacienda that’s been turned into one of the best luxury hotels in Oaxaca City
• Pug Seal Oaxaca ($$$$) Best boutique hotel in Oaxaca, with stylish decor and impeccable service
• Casa de las Bugambilias B&B ($$$) The best Oaxaca best and breakfast, run by a local family
• Hotel Casona Oaxaca ($$) One of the best cheap hotels in Oaxaca, with harming ambiance and great value for the cost
• Selina Hostel ($) Known as the best hostel in Oaxaca City, but Yabanhi Hotstel Oaxaca is also a contender for this title of best Oaxaca hostel

As with most downtown areas, Oaxaca’s Centro Historico neighborhood is equipped to host visitors — with accommodations for every budget.

It has the best boutique hotels in Oaxaca , best cheap hotels and best hostels.

If you prefer a quieter neighborhood, away from the main tourist center, check out these two Oaxaca neighborhoods, Jalatlaco and Xochimilco .

Best Neighborhoods in Oaxaca City

Oaxaca centro historico (downtown).

Downtown Oaxaca City isn’t very big — think 40 square blocks. For first time visitors, you’ll find staying in Centro (Downtown), as close to the  Zocalo (main square) as possible, very convenient.

This area gives you the convenience of walkability. There’s no Oaxaca Uber service, though you can always hail a cab. The city has public buses, though Oaxaca public transportation isn’t great overall.

🚙 Need a rental car in Oaxaca City? I recommend and use Discover Cars for all my Mexico car rentals.

Jalatlaco Oaxaca City

The hippest neighborhood in Oaxaca City! Colorful Jalatlaco (pronounced ha-lat-lack-oh) is just outside of Centro.

It is safe, with amazing restaurants and cafes, unique street art, colonial buildings and some of the best Oaxaca hotels — like City Centro Hotel Oaxaca and Hotel Cazomalli Oaxaca .

Xochimilco Oaxaca City

Xochimilco (pronounced so-chee-mill-co) is the oldest and most historic Oaxaca City neighborhood, and located just north of Centro Historico.

One of the coolest things in this  barrio  (neighborhood) is an 18th Century aqueduct that runs along Callejon Rufino Tamayo street.

You’ll still get the old school colonial city feel and look in the Xochimilco neighborhood, but you’ll be further away from the crowds.

Being slightly on the outskirts of Centro Historico means great value at Oaxaca boutique hotels — like El Callejón Hotel and Casa de Arte .

Best Things to Do in Oaxaca City, Mexico

1. monte alban oaxaca.

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

You can visit on your own, but these Monte Alban tours mean 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. Monte Albán opens at 8am, and arriving when they open also means avoiding the blazing afternoon sun.

When visiting, remember to wear a hat, eco-friendly sunscreen , sunglasses and comfortable shoes. Don’t forget your Water-To-Go Bottle , which filters your water so you don’t get sick in Mexico, and keeps you hydrated.

🏛️ Oaxaca UNESCO World Heritage Sites

There are not one, but three UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Oaxaca! As some of the most popular Oaxaca tours and best things to do in Oaxaca City , all three belong on your What to Do in Oaxaca list.

• Historic Downtown Oaxaca City
• Monte Alban Ruins
• Prehistoric Caves of Yagul and town of Mitla, one of the best Oaxaca pueblos magicos .

2. Centro Historico Oaxaca City

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

Today, it is a mix of old and new — and many of the best Oaxaca tours in the city take place right here.

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: Tips are customary). It is among the best Oaxaca tours , and a great way to explore the city with a local guide.

Top 10 Best things to do in Oaxaca Centro Historico

1. Zocalo Oaxaca, Plaza de la Constitucion & Oaxaca Catedral:  The Zocalo in Oaxaca is the main “Town Square,” where you’ll find historic Constitution Plaza, and the Oaxaca Cathedral.

2. Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzman:  Saint Domingo’s Temple is a 16th century Spanish Baroque-style church, and one of the best places to visit in Oaxaca .

3. Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca:  Oaxaca Culture Museum, located inside the Templo de Santo Domingo.

4. Jardin Etnobotanico de Oaxaca:  Oaxaca Botanical Garden, located at the Templo de Santo Domingo complex and one of the top Oaxaca sites. Note: You must visit with a tour.

5. Mercado de Artesanias de Oaxaca:  Oaxacan Artisan Market, traditional Oaxacan market (mercado) with textiles, clothing, handcrafted art and more. This is one of the best markets in Oaxaca .

6. Rufino Tamayo Museum:  Museum with pre-Hispanic artifacts. Its namesake Rufino Tamayo, is one of the most famous people from Oaxaca .

7. Mercado 20 de Noviembre:   November 20th Market, traditional market with plenty of Oaxaca Mexican food to sample, shops and more.

8. Calle de Macedonia Alcala:  Macedonia Alcala Street, a lively, pedestrian-only street with galleries, shops, cafes, some of the best mezcalerias in Oaxaca City (mezcal bars), and more.

9. Mercado Benito Juárez: Benito Juarez Market, traditional Mexican/ Oaxacan market with food, shops and more.

10. Museo Textil de Oaxaca:  Oaxaca Textile Museum, showcasing the state’s famous textiles. This is one of the best museums in Oaxaca City.

3. Mitla Pueblo Magico

After Monte Alban, the second most important archeological site in Oaxaca is  Mitla pueblo magico (magic town).

It is one of the six Oaxaca pueblos magicos , and the closest one to Oaxaca City.

Mitla is a Oaxaca Mexico UNESCO World Heritage site, along with Prehistoric Caves of Yagul .

As Mitla is easy to access, and the caves are not, most tours and visitors will only go to Mitla, Oaxaca.

🗿 What is Milta Ruins?

Rather than a group of pyramids , like many Mexico ruins and archeological sites, Mitla is a collection of buildings with elaborate and intricate carved stone and geometric designs.

It is one of the most beautiful and fascinating places to visit in Oaxaca Mexico .

Mitla is one of the holiest sites for the native Zapotec people and Mixtec people, used in centuries past as a holy burial site.

In fact, the word  mitla  comes from the Aztec word  mictlán , which means “underworld” or “place of the dead.”

TRAVELING TO OAXACA City MexAico

4. hierve el agua oaxaca.

Located about 45 miles (72 km) from Oaxaca City, is perhaps Oaxaca’s most famous natural wonder —  Hierve el Agua . Its name means “boiling water.”

While the natural mineral pools are the most photographed places here, you should also check out the amazing “cascadas” (waterfalls). The word cascadas is in quotes here for a reason.

There are two cliff faces at Hierve el Agua that look like waterfalls because they are covered in calcified mineral deposits — however, they are not waterfalls.

They do look like waterfalls with flowing and falling water, which is why many call this site the Hierve el Agua waterfalls . You can see the “waterfalls” from afar at the hot springs and pools, or you can hike down for a closer look.

best HIERVE EL AGUA TOURS in Oaxaca

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

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

• Ultimate Hierve el Agua Hike & Mezcal Tasting
• Hierve el Agua Tour
• Hierve el Agua Experience

5. Oaxaca El Tule Tree

Located a few miles from Oaxaca City in the pueblo (small town) of Santa Maria del Tule, Oaxaca Mexico, this makes for a great and quick day trips from Oaxaca .

El Arbol del Tule, or simply El Tule (The Tree of Enlightenment) is a giant Montezuma cypress tree on the grounds of a the gorgeous Templo Santa María de la Asunción church.

At 46-feet around (14 m), it holds the world’s record for biggest trunk diameter on Earth. For reference, it takes at least 30 people with clasped hands to wrap around the El Tule tree.

Scientists date this tree at about 2,000-years-old. However, Oaxaca’s native Zapotec people say it was planted about 1,400 years ago by Ehécatl , the god of the wind.

It is a must see Oaxaca vacation site!

7. Oaxaca Botanical Garden

To see more of Oaxaca’s famous plants, head to the Jardin Etnobotanico de Oaxaca (Oaxaca Botanical Gardens). It is located in downtown, adjacent to the Templo de Santo Domingo.

This 2.5-acre (1 hectare) garden showcases Oaxaca’s immense biodiversity, with hundreds of local plant and cactus species.

🌵 Oaxaca Travel Tips : how to Visit the Botanical Garden

Due to the fragility of the garden’s ecosystem, you can only enter with a guided tour.

English tours take place several times per week, for $100 pesos ($5 USD) per person, and last two hours. Though inexpensive, this is one of the best tours in Oaxaca City .

Oaxaca Food & Drink Guide

In 2010, UNESCO declared Mexican food as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Mankind. 🤔 Just what does that mean!?

In plain English, the United Nations declared traditional Mexican food , including Oaxaca food, as one of mankind’s cultural treasures.

This honor is shared with only one other country, France, also popular for foodie travel .

High atop the list of best Mexico foodie destinations, sits Oaxaca. It is actually known as the Foodie Capital of Mexico.

So just what does one eat in this food paradise?

For starters, there’s these 30 Best Oaxaca Foods and Drinks You Need to Try , including the 7 moles of Oaxaca , tlayudas, memelas , garnachas, chapulines, and more.

There’s also amazing Oaxaca street food and all the incredible, authentic cheap eats in Oaxaca mercados (markets).

You’ll also want to imbibe the amazing Mexico drinks in Oaxaca, like mezcal , tejate, atole and the famous aguas casildas in Benito Juarez Market.

Traditional Oaxacan cuisine , like most Mexican food, is regional. It is unlike other foods in Mexico because Oaxaca has numerous indigenous groups that all add their unique flavors and styles.

Besides that, Oaxaca has an incredible variety of produce year-round because of its many microclimates and growing seasons.

From mercados (like these best Oaxaca markets ) to street food stands, and traditional Oaxacan family-style restaurants to fine dining — Oaxaca has it all when it comes to amazing food .

But first, let’s explore all the unique foods and beverages you’ll want to try while traveling to Oaxaca. These are listed below.

Following the foods list, there’s a list of the best Oaxaca restaurants , like Criollo, Origen, Casa Oaxaca and Alfonsina Oaxaca .

👩‍🍳 Check out these best Oaxaca food tours to discover even more about this regional Mexican cuisine.

Must Try Oaxaca Foods & Drinks

Below are just some of the most popular Oaxacan cuisine staples that you must try when traveling to Oaxaca City Mexico.

For a complete guide, head to this article, 30 Best Oaxaca Foods and Drinks You Need to Try .

✔️ Memelas (mem-mel-las)

Often eaten as a snack, memelas are kind of open-face tacos.

They are cooked on a  comal  (circular, flat cooking surface) and served on a thick corn tortilla and topped with beans, melted quesillo ( Oaxaca cheese ) and sometimes meat.

✔️ Chapulines (chap-pull-lean-es)

Chapulines are Mexico’s infamous grasshoppers. You’ll find vendors selling them on the streets and in the mercados (markets in Oaxaca City).

Chapulines are very common in Oaxaca, and eaten like popcorn.

✔️ Tlayudas (tuh-lie-you-das)

Tlayudas are sometimes called a Mexican pizza, and they do look like a pizza — but that’s the only similarity.

Tlayudas are assembled on large tortillas, and topped with beans, lettuce, tomatoes, onion and queso Oaxaca cheese .

They are cooked on a comal or over carbon (charcoal), which imparts a smoky flavor.

✔️ Tamales  oaxaqueños

Tamales are an ancient pre-hispanic food made of masa (corn dough), then steamed in a corn husk or banana leaf.

Tamales are served throughout Mexico, though tamales oaxaqueños  (Oaxacan tamales) are cooked in a banana leaf.

They’re sometimes called tamales hojas, meaning “leaf tamales,” and considered among the country’s tastiest.

✔️ Mole (mole-lay)

Mole is both a marinade and a sauce. There are  seven types of mole , all with different combinations of spices, fruits, nuts and more.

The most popular type of Oaxaca mole negro (black mole), which gets its color from chocolate and charred chili peppers.

✔️ Tejate (tay-ha-tay) : One of the Best Oaxacan Drinks

Tejate is a pre-hispanic chocolate and corn drink, which may sound weird, but this ancient drink has stood the test of time.

In fact, it is known as the bebida de los dioses , or “drink of the gods.”

Tejate is served cold, so it’s super refreshing on a hot Oaxaca City day. It tastes like a chocolate almond milk, but much richer and more complex.

✔️ Aguas Casilda

For a uniquely Oaxacan culinary experience, you must try an aguas casilda . Since you’re probably wondering What is aguas casilda? — Let me explain…

Fruit flavored-waters called aguas frescas are a Mexican drink favorite that you can enjoy all over the country. In Oaxaca, there’s a famous agua fresca stand which is a standout among locals and visitors alike.

The famed Casilda Aguas Regionales stand in Mercado de Benito Juarez Market, one of the best markets in Oaxaca City , dates back to 1890.

Started by the late Casilda Flores Morales, it quickly grew in popularity.

There are several flavors of aguas frescas at Casilda Aguas Oaxaca, but make sure to try the chilacayota . This is a melon-type fruit from Oaxaca Mexico that has a cinnamon taste.

Best Oaxaca Cooking Classes

Want to dive even deeper and learn how to cook some Oaxacan meals?

These Oaxaca cooking classes give you a new perspective on Oaxacan food and drinks.

You can also go to the source, and visit a local Zapotec community market for a traditional lunch.

Best Restaurants in Oaxaca City Mexico

It’s hard to eat a bad meal in Oaxaca City!

However, there are standouts like Casa Oaxaca Restaurant (located at Casa Oaxaca Hotel ), Lechoncito de Oro, which has the best tacos in Oaxaca (IMO), and Itanoni, one of my favorite places to eat in Oaxaca.

Below, you’ll find a more complete list of the best restaurants in Oaxaca City , and an overview of the best Oaxaca City mercados (markets).

The mercados offer a fun, authentic Oaxaca Mexico experience. In each one, there are plenty of street food stalls to eat all of the famous Oaxaca foods.

One particular food stall, Memelas de Doña Vale in Mercado Central de Abastos, was even featured in an episode of Netflix’s  Street Food: Latin America  show.

Best Bars & Restaurants in Oaxaca Map

Here are 33 places in Oaxaca to get your fix of mole, Oaxaca mezcal and more.

The map includes all the best Oaxaca City restaurants , as well as the best street food in Oaxaca, the best mercados (markets), fine dining options and all the top mezcalerías (mezcal bars).

Oaxaca RESTAURANTS & Casual Eateries

1. Itanoni:  Order tetelas, de ese, tamales, memelas and wash it all down with tascalate or agua fresca (fruit water).

2. Lechoncito de Oro:  A must try Oaxaca taqueria! This late-night street taco stand only serves chicharron (fried pork skin) and pierna (pork leg), so try one of each.

3. Tlayudas Libres:  Order a tlayuda and top it with cecina, tasajo or chorizo, if you eat meat. If not, order yours sencillo , or plain.

4. Las Quince Letras:  Owned and run by Oaxaca culinary legend, Celia Florián. Order the trilogía de moles (trilogy of moles) to sample three types of mole in one meal.

5. La Olla:  The menu changes seasonally, so try the menu del dia (menu of the day).

6. Boulenc:  Order shakshuka for breakfast, a brick-oven pizza for lunch, and a pastry at what’s possibly the best bakery in Oaxaca. 

Oaxaca fine DINING for foodies

✔️ Casa Oaxaca

Alejandro Ruiz’s is one of the most famous Mexican chefs , and this is his famed Oaxacan eatery. Order a bottle of Mexican wine, the crispy duck tacos, any of their  moles , and do not skip dessert.

🍷 Oaxaca Travel Tips: Make a reservation for a rooftop table at sunset. From here, you’ll have gorgeous views of Downtown Oaxaca City.

✔️ El Destilado

Splurge and do the 12-course chef’s tasting menu with drink pairing, for an amazing Oaxaca meal.

The seven-course tasting menu at Criollo Oaxaca changes daily, but you can expect an elevated spin on classic Oaxacan foods.

It is owned and run by Chef Enrique Olvera of Pujol, one of the best restaurants in Mexico City , and Chef Luis Arellano.

Oaxaca City Markets (Mercados)

✔️ Mercado Benito Juarez

Located in downton, this is a traditional Oaxacan Mexican   mercado  (market).

Here, you’ll find vendors selling a mix of fresh produce and Oaxacan cheeses , mezcal, prepared foods, clothing, locally-made artisanal items (some that come directly from the art towns in Oaxaca ), and more.

✔️ Central de Abastos

The largest market in Oaxacao, and most tourists visit for one reason only: the memlas.

Las Memelas Doña Vale was featured in the Oaxaca episode of Netflix’s Street Food: Latin America, and has become a local celeb in the market. If you go, make sure you order the memelas with morita salsa.

✔️ Mercado 20 de Noviembre

More of a food hall than traditional mercado, meaning this is a great place to sample many different and authentic cheap eats.

👀 Looking for unusual things to do in Oaxaca ?

Venture off the beaten path to the Pasillo de Humo (Smoke Alley) in Mercado 20 de Noviembre for some cecina, tasajo and carne asada in Oaxaca.

Best Mezcal in Oaxaca City

What is mezcal?

Mezcal is a distilled spirit that can be made from more than 30 varieties of the maguey ( agave ) plant. If mezcal sounds like tequila to you — it kind of is.

Much like how champagne is essentially a sparkling wine from the city of Champagne, France, tequila is a kind of mezcal from the city of Tequila, Mexico (and a few other nearby places).

If Tequila, Mexico, is the home of tequila, then Oaxaca is the home of mezcal.

Para todo mal, mezcal. Para todo bien, también. (Meaning, For everything good, mezcal. For everything bad, mezcal also.) well-known Mexico Quote

If you love this Mexican spirit, you must take one of these best Oaxaca mezcal tours when you visit Oaxaca City.

If you don’t want to do a full tour, head to these 15 Best Oaxaca Mezcalerias (mezcal bars).

Best Oaxaca Mezcal Bars (Mezcalerias)

For a more casual, locals vibe head to In Sitú , La Mezcalerita  and Los Amantes Mezcaleria . These places will have some cocktails, but they are more about sipping on a straight mezcal.

🤕 Planning to drink a lot of mezcal? Don’t forget these anti-hangover meds .

If you’re looking for places to enjoy some mezcal mixology, head to  Los Danzantes  and  Sabina Sabe . Two of the best Oaxaca mezcal bars , both places are famous for their mezcal cocktails.

At Sabina Sabe try the Guayabo Verde, and at Los Danzantes Oaxaca, the Danzantes 43 reigns supreme. Note: Their menus change often, so these may or may not be available.

Best Oaxaca Mezcal Tours

✔️ The Mezcal Journey

Join Alvin, a Oaxaca local to learn about mezcal in Santiago Matatlan, Oaxaca , considered the “Mexican mezcal capital,” and other top mezcal towns in Oaxaca.

Enjoy a tour of the picturesque Oaxaca agave fields and head to a distillery to see the whole process, step by step, before drinking some mezcal.

✔️ Mole Tasting & Pre-Hispanic Mezcal

Tour host, Daniel, is a master mezcalier and mezcal sommelier.

He will take you through a sensory journey to see, smell, touch, and finally, have a Oaxaca mezcal tasting paired with the moles of Oaxaca Mexico .

✔️ Mezcaloteca Oaxaca

Mezcaloteca is part mezcal school and part tasting room. It is located in downtown Oaxaca Mexico , in the heart of all the action.

After your experience here, you’ll have a great understanding of mezcal, and can take your knowledge to all other  mezcalerias  in Oaxaca City you visit.

🥃 Note:  Reservations are required for tastings. If the bar isn’t crowded, walk-ins are welcome to ask for a tasting, but it’s best to make a reservation.

What’s the best time to visit Oaxaca?

The best time to travel to Oaxaca Mexico is during the dry season, October to May .

However, the temperate weather in Oaxaca City means it can be a year-round destination.

🌡️ OAXACA weather Temperatures

While it will rain during the Oaxaca rainy season from June-September, you’ll also get lower prices, as this is the off-season.

If you want to avoid the crowds, the Oaxaca City busy season runs from about late-October for Day of the Dead , through March.

Many also visit Oaxaca City for the Guelaguetza , Oaxaca’s second biggest annual festival, held in July.

Guelaguetza Festival Oaxaca

The Guelaguetza (pronounced geh-la-get-zah) is among the most famous and best festivals in Oaxaca City, Mexico . In fact, it has been called the largest folkloric festival on the Americas continent.

This annual event takes place on two Mondays in mid-July. Its dates vary from year to year, but the festival will be held the two Mondays following July 16.

The Guelaguetza festival brings together people from the eight regions of Oaxaca to share their food, textiles and culture through dances, presentations and gift exchanges.

In fact, Guelaguetza comes from the Zapotec word,  guendalezaa , meaning “an offering” or “a gift.”

Though overshadowed by the fame of Oaxaca Dia de los Muertos  (one of the best Day of the Dead celebrations in Mexico ), the Guelaguetza is one of the most exciting and beautiful Oaxaca festivals in Mexico.

Day of the Dead Oaxaca City

Dia de los Muertos, which is Day of the Dead in Mexico , is one of the biggest festivals in Oaxaca, and all of Mexico. I have been a few times, and can’t recommend it enough.

For a complete guide to the festival, as well as the history and symbolism of Dia de Muertos, check out Day of the Dead in Oaxaca: Everything You Need to Know .

When is Day of the Dead?

The holiday takes place November 1st and November 2nd . It officially begins at midnight on November 1st, so you might hear some say it starts October 31st.

Oaxaca City begins prepping for the holiday about 7-10 days before the actual festival. If you’re planing to attend, try to arrive by October 28th.

The festival takes over the whole town, and it’s one of the best places to attend Day of the Dead in Mexico .

What is Day of the Dead?

Each year, for a few days in late-Oct. and early-Nov., many Mexican people believe the veil to the spirit world is lifted and our departed family members return Earthside to visit us.⁠

While in many cultures, this would be a somber event, in Mexico, it’s a giant party, and the biggest festival in Oaxaca.

Different Mexican states, with their ties to different indigenous peoples, will celebrate it differently. Oaxaca, and its native Zapotec peoples , are known as having the country’s most festive, colorful, and fun celebration.

Traveling to Oaxaca: Beyond Oaxaca City

Best Beaches in Oaxaca

The two most visited places in Oaxaca are Oaxaca City, and the best beaches in Oaxaca , all located on the Oaxacan Coast.

These include Puerto Escondido , Zipolite , Huatulco , San Agustinillo , Mazunte (where I did a 10-day  silent meditation retreat ), Puerto Angel and Lagunas de Chacahua National Park , among a few others.

Oaxaca, while not a huge state, is quite spread out. If you have four or less days, stick to one area; either Oaxaca City or the beaches.

For travelers with five or more available days, you can divide your time up between Oaxaca City and the Oaxaca coast.

🏝️ Traveling from Oaxaca City to the beaches? Check out these guides — Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido , Oaxaca to Huatulco , and Oaxaca to Mazunte .

To drive, take the Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido Highway. This newly-built roadway connects Oaxaca City to the Coast of Oaxaca in just a few hours.

Inter-state travel from the city tot he beach can take 3-4 hours by rental car , colectivo (small, shared van), and ADO bus .

There is a short flight from Oaxaca City to Puerto Escondido and a flight from Oaxaca City to Huatulco , though it’s the most expensive option.

Oaxaca Pueblos Mancomunados

For a unique, off the beaten path Oaxaca experience, head into the Sierra Norte mountains on a trekking adventure to the  Pueblos Mancomunados .

These eight self-governing indigenous Zapotec villages , located only a few hours from Oaxaca City, provide immersive Mexico ecotourism experiences.

San Jose del Pacifico (Oaxaca Mushroom Town)

As an off the beaten path Oaxaca destination, San Jose del Pacifico Oaxaca has been gaining in popularity in recent years.

This town is located between Oaxaca City and the Oaxacan beaches , so many stop in this pueblo (small town) to enjoy nature and magic mushrooms.

You can visit on your own by car or colectivo (shared van), or you can book this best San Jose del Pacifico tours .

🍄 How to take mushrooms in San Jose del Pacifico

Though technically illegal, mushrooms have been used as plant medicine in San Jose del Pacifico for centuries.

The government is fully aware of what’s going on with them, but they look the other way. Visitors can buy medicinal mushrooms in shops all over town.

If you’re looking to partake, the best months for fresh mushrooms in San Jose del Pacifico is from June to August, during the Oaxaca rainy season.

As with all medicines, make sure you’re taking the correct dose in the correct way, so you don’t harm or endanger yourself.

Prices vary, but one dose of mushrooms in San Jose del Pacifico costs about $200-250 pesos ($10-15 USD).

Flights to Oaxaca City Mexico

When traveling to Oaxaca City, use Oaxaca International Airport (code: OAX). It has flights from several United States cities, including Dallas/Fort Worth, Houston, LA and Chicago.

If you’re already in Mexico, you can fly here from major cities including Mexico City , Guadalajara , Tijuana and Monterrey .

The Oaxaca airport is just 20-30 minutes from downtown, and you can take a cab, colectivo (small, shared van) or private transportation service to your accommodation in Oaxaca.

🚕 Oaxaca Travel Tips: There’s no Uber in Oaxaca Mexico , but there are plenty of taxis.

If you’re planning to take a lot of day trips, or just need a car rental in Oaxaca , the airport is the best place to get one.

Mexico City to Oaxaca City Travel

Mexico City to Oaxaca Drive

For those who love a good road trip, pick up your rental car in Mexico City, and hit the road.

The drive from Mexico City to Oaxaca City will take about 6-8 hours; while Mexico City to Puerto Escondido , Huatulco and the other Oaxaca beaches will take closer to 11-12 hours.

You can do the Mexico City to Oaxaca drive in a day, but if you’re heading to the beaches, consider a hotel for one night as many say it’s not safe to drive at night.

Is it safe to drive in Mexico?

As a general rule, yes , Mexico road trips are safe — though you’ll obviously be driving in another country, which might be intimidating.

To be as confident and safe as possible, familiarize yourself with Mexico driving laws and customs before you hit the road.

You can always ask the agent at your Mexico car rental for advice, and check out the 10 Mexico driving tips in article, Renting A Car in Mexico: Everything You Need to Know .

If you’re driving across the border into to Mexico, check out this Driving to Mexico Guide for more info.

Mexico City to Oaxaca Bus

Mexico’s largest bus company,  ADO , has comfortable buses for the eight hour trip to Oaxaca City, and the 12-14 hour drive to Puerto Escondido.

⚠️ Note: The ADO website is not easy to use and doesn’t take United Staes credit cards, so book your tickets here for the Mexico Oaxaca bus.

Make sure to opt for their luxury class bus option on longer rides like this one. In this class, you’ll enjoy the comfy, large, recliner-style seats and outlets at each seat for your gadgets.

The ADO bus from Mexico City to Oaxaca has overnight trip options, which some travelers prefer. No matter your time choice, know that bus transport in Mexico is safe, inexpensive and convenient.

Mexico City to Oaxaca Flights

With numerous low cost Mexico carriers, the best way to get from Mexico City to Oaxaca is by plane. Though costs fluctuate, this 90-minute flight is relatively inexpensive when compared to the bus.

On average, the Mexico City to Oaxaca bus costs about $35 USD, and takes 8+ hours; whereas you can find plane tickets for as little as $55 USD, and flights are only 1.5 hours.

Traveling to Oaxaca FAQs

Is oaxaca safe for travel.

Short answer: Yes , for the vast majority of travelers, it is.

Longer answer: Aside from big surf waves, mosquitoes and not drinking too much mezcal , you’re in little danger in Oaxaca City or Oaxaca state.

In fact, Oaxaca is considered one of the safest states in Mexico for visitors.

Oaxaca City is the country’s 67th largest city, with a population of about 275,000, but retains a humble, pueblo vibe.

SOLO TRAVEL OAXACA : Head to Mexico Solo Travel: 20 Amazing Destinations for Female Travelers , to read Rebecca’s traveling to Oaxaca solo story.

As no place on Earth is 100% safe, you’ll want to follow the 10 General Travel Safety Tips below — you know, the same ones you’d follow when traveling anywhere.

You should also register for the STEP Program and put your mind at ease with Mexico travel insurance .

Is Oaxaca worth visiting?

As you likely need to take two flights to Oaxaca Mexico, or a flight and a bus, you might be wondering if traveling to Oaxaca is worth it. I hope this guide to Oaxaca made it clear that YES, it is!

Why visit Oaxaca Mexico?

One of the best things to do in Oaxaca is attend the festivals . If possible, visit during Dia de Muertos (Day of the Dead) , the most fun, festive and best time of year to visit Oaxaca City.

As one of the most bucket list Mexico festivals, you’ll want to book your travel plans for this as early as possible — even as early as January — though the festival is November 1 to November 2.

Is there Uber in Oaxaca City?

Here’s one of the best Oaxaca travel tips: There’s no Uber in Oaxaca Mexico and no Lyft in Oaxaca either.

However, there’s plenty of taxis if you’re not renting a car in Oaxaca . There’s Oaxaca public transportation, but even in the state capital, it’s not great.

For those doing some Oaxaca day trips , a rental car comes in handy as there’s a lot to see just outside of the city.

For those who want to rent a car, I recommend and use Discover Cars for all my Mexico car rentals. They compare local Mexican companies and international companies, so you get the best rates.

Another options are booking some of these best Oaxaca tours , and skip the rental car entirely.

Do I need a visa for Mexico?

No — U.S., Canadian and most European passport holders don’t need a visa to travel to Mexico.

This is just one reason Mexico is one of the best international travel destinations for Americans and others.

🎫 Passport Stamp and FMM Visa

When you arrive in Mexico and go through Customs and Immigration, you’ll receive either a passport stamp or a 180-day (6 month) FMM tourist card .

This is a small piece of paper that you need to hold on to so you can give it back to an Immigration officer when you leave the country — so don’t lose your FMM!

Of course, if you get the stamp in your passport instead, there’s no need to worry about losing it. At time goes, on the paper FMM is being phased out completely.

What do I pack for Oaxaca Mexico?

For the most part, Oaxaca is hot all year-long with 80-90°F days (26-32°C). At night, temperatures drop to about 50-60°F (10-16°C) in Oaxaca City , but remain warm on the beaches.

As far as how to dress, Oaxacans are modest dressers, so pants/jeans with long sleeve tops are the norm. Need some inspo? Check out these best Mexico outfits to get a visual.

☀️ Get more Oaxaca, Mexico weather info here, and head here to check out the Ultimate Packing List for Mexico + FREE Checklist Download .

However, sundresses, flowy, breathable, cotton, and light-colored clothing works; bonus points for anything that doesn’t show sweat. At night, you’ll want a jacket and boots in Oaxaca City.

With Oaxaca’s sunny, hot (and often humid 😥) days, definitely pack this Water-To-Go Bottle to stay hydrated, and eco-friendly sunscreen to avoid sunburns and practice responsible tourism in Mexico.

If you plan on drinking a lot of mezcal , don’t forget your anti-hangover meds .

🧳 FREE Printable Packing List for Mexico

Wondering exactly what to pack for Oaxaca, and all of Mexico? Download your FREE printable packing list for Mexico here .

This multi-page Mexico packing checklist covers everything you’ll want to bring, and more importantly, what not to bring to Mexico.

Final Thoughts: Traveling to Oaxaca City, Mexico

Oaxaca, in a word, is  magical . Oaxaca is the Mexico people imagine Mexico to be. I sincerely hope this Oaxaca City Travel Guide showcased that.

This state has it all: rich history, gorgeous beaches , colorful festivals , UNESCO World Heritage Sites, locally-made mezcal , beautiful nature , colonial architecture and artisan communities .

There’s also the traditional Oaxacan food 🤤 The Oaxaca food scene rivals many of the top foodie destinations in the world like New York City, Paris and Bangkok.

If you need more info about traveling to Oaxaca Mexico, check out all the Oaxaca travel guides on my dedicated Oaxaca website — TravelToOaxaca.com .

Mexico Travel Planning Guide

Should i buy mexico travel insurance.

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 Mexico?

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.

Also, it helps keep you hydrated while traveling Mexico. ( Read more )

Is it safe to rent a car in Mexico?

Yes — Renting a car in Mexico is one of the best ways to see the country! I always rent with Discover Cars , which checks international companies and local Mexican companies, so you get the best rates. ( Read more )

Will my phone work in Mexico?

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 any Mexico SIM Cards. ( Read more )

What’s the best way to book my Mexico accommodations?

For Mexico hotels, Booking.com is the best site , but for hostels, use Hostel World . If you’re considering a Mexico Airbnb, don’t forget to check VRBO , which is often cheaper than Airbnb.

What do I pack for Mexico?

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 Mexico flights?

For finding cheap Mexico flights, I recommend using Skyscanner .

Likely Not — U.S., Canadian and European Passport holders don’t need a visa for Mexico; but check here to see if you need a Mexico travel visa. Most travelers will get a 180-Day FMM Tourist Visa passport stamp a upon arrival.

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Where to Drink, Stay, and Play in Oaxaca

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

For those in the know, Oaxaca, Mexico, has long been on the map. But in recent years Oaxaca has solidified its standing as a high-octane design destination the world over. Blame the boom on mezcal—agave spirits are the fastest-growing type of spirit in the US—or the community of contemporary artists, or the enduring allure of the region’s cuisine , or the crop of new boutique hotels. Oaxaca’s reputation as the cool kid of Mexico shows no signs of slowing down. Yet Oaxaca’s magnetism can’t be pinned to any one trend. What makes Oaxaca what it is, what constitutes its identity, are the Indigenous communities—their people, traditions, and ancestral rituals remain the heart of it all.

The city and its surrounds are brimming with places to eat, drink, and stay. We’ve narrowed down our top choices so you won’t waste a moment while enjoying Oaxaca.

All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Levadura de Olla

Levadura de Olla tomato dish

Where to eat

Those seeking approachable spots serving up contemporary Oaxacan fare have good options. At  Levadura de Olla (reservations recommended), Chef Thalia Barros Garcia, one of Food and Wine Mexico’s Best New Chefs 2021, combined her culinary school education with the traditional food from her hometown in the Sierra Sur region. Go for the eternally photogenic heirloom tomato salad, the agua de maíz, and tamal de requeson. At  Tika’aya (reservations required), an Indigenous kitchen by the self-proclaimed “five boys from La Mixteca,” Oaxaca’s fertile region to the west, you’ll find a weekly changing prix fixe menu that is complex and beautiful yet unpretentious.

The city’s classics are worth a visit, too—and be sure to make a reservation ahead of time. Secure a table at Alejandro Ruíz’s  Casa Oaxaca for dishes like stuffed chile de agua and heirloom turkey with mole negro. Stop by  Criollo —from  Pujol chef  Enrique Olvera —for brunch seated around a tree-lined patio, with dishes served from an open-air kitchen where slabs of meat and ropes of chorizo smoke. Visit  Los Danzantes , the original upscale spot in the city, for contemporary Mexican in a sweeping three-story space.

For quick bites during the day, head to  Tacos de Cazuela del Carmen Alto in the center. The lesser known of two taco stands near the church La Iglesia del Carmen Alto, Cazuela del Carmen Alto serves up made-on-the-spot tortillas with dozens of stewed meats and vegetables from clay pots, or cazuelas. A few blocks south is  Mercado de 20 de Noviembre's famed Pasillo de Humo, an aisle dotted with vendors where visitors can buy dozens of cuts of meat to be grilled  al momento and consumed on site. For late-night eats, the city’s famed  Lechoncito de Oro can’t be beat. Open only after dark, the taco stand doles out suckling pig tacos and tostadas until the early morning. Bring cash for all of the above.

Oaxacan food is varied and awe-inspiring but can be heavy. For inventive salads and sandwiches, seriously good bread, and some of the best coffee in town, head to  Onnno Lonchería . Devoted to perfecting his sourdough, Chef Gustavo Coutiño imports organic unbleached flour from the US for the optimal chew and tang. 

Where to drink

The number one mezcal-producing region in Mexico, Oaxaca is all about this complex spirit. A centuries-old ceremonial drink that’s made from more than 40 varieties of agave, mezcal is best enjoyed with a touch of education to better understand its significance and nuance. Visit the newly opened  La Casa Grande , industry icon  Real Minero's tasting room, bar, and shop, where you can chat with members of the Ángeles family and even make plans to visit their palenque in Santa Catarina Minas.

For a broad sampling of mezcals from Oaxaca and beyond, make reservations at  Mezcaloteca , a private bar and library offering more than 100 mezcals and educational tastings. Cocktail bar  Sabina Sabe , named the 20th best bar in North America in 2022, has an extensive list of worthy mezcals by revered makers like La Locura and Mezcal Vago and serves up creative twists on classic cocktails. Stop by swanky art deco bar Selva to rub shoulders with Oaxacan artists and designers. For natural wine, head to  Amá Terraza on the top floor of the hotel Casa Antonieta and enjoy the city’s most beautiful rooftop—which doubles as a hummingbird sanctuary.

If you’re looking for a no-frills, only-in-Oaxaca spirit, you’ll find it at  Pollos Bar . At this quintessential cantina, the jukebox spits out  cumbia music , the beers are cheap and cold, and the people-watching is unmatched. For a dive, walk through the swinging doors of  Salón de la Fama for a mezcalito at the tiny, unassuming bar.

Surfing with Coyote Aventuras

Coyote Aventuras

Your time in Oaxaca is best split between downtown and day trips to the surrounding areas. The city of Oaxaca is a just one piece of the diverse region at large. Start exploring the city at  Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzmán , a church that acts as the city center and has multitudes of street vendors and events orbiting around it. Behind the church is the  Jardín Etnobotánico de Oaxaca , a botanical garden which requires an 100-peso ticket for entry (around $5)—stop by the ticket window to buy one in advance. Weave your way through bustling markets like 20 de Noviembre and  Benito Juárez for chapulines, quesillo, and salchicha ejuteca. Be sure to wear closed-toe shoes and sample every snack you see.

Museums like the  Museo de los Pintores Oaxaqueños (MUPO),  Museo de la Filatelia (MUFI, the stamp museum), and  Museo de Arte Contemporáneo (MACO)—recently reopened after a two-year closure—are great stops for learning about traditional and modern local art, while admiring the stately centuries-old colonial architecture of Oaxaca’s Centro. Novice and expert cooks alike can take a class with  Casa Crespo for a custom menu and chaperoned trip to the market. For shopping, stop by concept shop  Marchanta for a sleek mix of fashion, art, and design before heading to  Los Baúles de Juana Cata por Remigio Mestas , a haven for textiles.

Outside the city, the Hierve el Agua calcified waterfall remains one of the most popular day trips and one that can easily be paired with a visit to Teotitlan del Valle, a town known for its textiles. While in Teotitlan, check out the  Vida Nueva Women's Cooperative shop and the newly opened Fe y Lola showroom. (Send a message via Instagram to arrange a viewing at the latter.) On the art track, the town of San Agustín Etla is home to the gorgeous  Centro de las Artes de San Agustín (CASA), a former textile mill turned art school and contemporary museum.

To really squeeze the most out of your time in Oaxaca, Mexico, tap a local guide who can take you deeper.  Coyote Aventuras offers pre-planned and customizable tours, including hiking in the forests of the Sierra Sur and a street art bike tour of the city. For the adventurous traveler, Coyote also offers multi-day trekking and biking expeditions off the beaten path. An expert travel specialist like Stephanie Schneider at  Tia Stephanie Tours or Zachary Rabinor of  Journey Mexico can also help you organize a guided tour or plan an itinerary.

Grana B&B

Where to stay

Formerly a town of classic luxury, like Quinta Real, Oaxaca has played host to a spate of design-driven hotel openings in the last years. There’s Grana B&B , the bed and breakfast by the team behind Mexico City’s beloved but since-closed Chaya . Housed in a renovated 16th century building, Grana remains one of the most beautiful spaces in Oaxaca, skipping the en vogue brutalism favored by many top Mexican architects today and instead playing to the house’s historical past with quintessential Mexican tile work and cantera verde stone floors.

Newly renovated and expanded Casa Antoineta offers an impressive mix of on-site amenities for a nine-room boutique hotel, which make it a favorite of locals and visitors alike. There’s  Muss Cafe , the hotel’s first floor specialty coffee shop, and Amá, the third-story bar and cafe located on one of the city’s most stunning rooftops—not to mention the chic rooms and wonderful staff.

With its opening just before the pandemic, Pug Seal’s Oaxacan outpost marks the Mexico City–based hotel brand’s first foray beyond the nation's capital. In paying homage to Oaxaca’s artistic past and present, Pug Seal tapped artist Rafael Urigias to paint the 20-room hotel’s signature fresco-painted murals, which take inspiration from the canon of Zapotec symbols and iconography.

For a minimalist escape in the vibrant city, look to Escondido Hotel by Mexico’s favorite boutique hotel group Grupo Habito. Mexico’s legendary architect Alberto Kalach renovated the 12-room hotel, which boasts elegant stonework, recessed concrete shelving, and a raw mineral palate.

Situated on the same property as aforementioned restaurant Criollo, Casa Criollo remains an elevated choice for a rental home with its whitewashed walls and artisanal details. Condé Nast Traveler senior editor Megan Spurrell has stayed at and reviewed the property, and said it connected her to the city as a whole, making her feel like a local. On the other side of town in the idyllic neighborhood of Jalatlaco is Los Pilares , a budget-friendly pick with a rooftop plunge pool and the city’s best low-intervention wine list.

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• Destinations

How to Plan the Perfect Trip to Oaxaca, Mexico

Here's our ultimate travel guide to Oaxaca de Juárez, one of Mexico's most underrated cities.

Best Hotels and Resorts

Best things to do.

• Best Places to Shop
• Best Restaurants
• Best Times to Visit

How to Get There

How to get around.

Stephanie Pollak / Travel + Leisure

Boasting an endless supply of mezcal and mole, Oaxaca de Juárez is undoubtedly one of the best food and drink destinations on the planet. So much so, that it was named the best city in the world in Travel + Leisure's 2023 World's Best Awards . (The city is commonly referred to as Oaxaca, but shouldn't be confused with the eponymous state it's in.) 

This dynamic city in southwestern Mexico is where you'll find vibrant culture, beautiful weather, and some of the country's most iconic architecture. "The most remarkable thing about Oaxaca is the deep presence of this pre-Colombian culture in all aspects of contemporary life — the mingling and mixing of Indigenous, Spanish, and contemporary Mexican influences are unique and unforgettable," says Zachary Rabinor, CEO of Journey Mexico , a luxury travel agency that specializes in trips to Mexico.

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

To that end, here's our ultimate travel guide to Oaxaca, with the best things to do, see, and sip while exploring this exciting city.

Top 5 Can’t Miss

• Modern luxury meets 16th-century charm at Quinta Real Oaxaca, a former convent that's now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a boutique hotel.
• Sample Oaxaca’s famed agave spirit and learn more about the distilling process during a mezcal experience.
• Visit the artisan communities just outside Oaxaca’s downtown to find locally made pottery, textiles, and other specialty works of art.
• Sip craft cocktails that perfectly blend Mexican spirits and local ingredients at Selva.
• Leave room for an after-hours bite at El Lechoncito de Oro, the best place in the city to find mouthwatering, freshly made tacos.

Courtesy of Casa Silencio

Oaxaca offers all manner of lodging options, from unassuming bed-and-breakfasts and historic converted convents to opulent and palatial accommodations that embody modern luxury.

Casa Santo Origen

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

Quinta Real Oaxaca

If you're seeking something a little more old-fashioned, check into Quinta Real Oaxaca , a former 16th-century convent and UNESCO World Heritage Site that retains a strong sense of antique charm without sacrificing modern amenities. The property boasts views of the courtyards and streets of Oaxaca and has an idyllic garden pool for guests to enjoy.

Casa Silencio

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

Downtown Oaxaca

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

The city is also home to two popular museums. Learn about the area's Indigenous heritage at The Museum of Cultures of Oaxaca , which was founded in 1831. Here, you'll find 14 permanent exhibits covering everything from ancient arrowheads dating back thousands of years to what life is like for today's local communities. Nearby, the Oaxaca Textile Museum is housed in a restored 18th-century mansion and features a variety of colorful displays that are worth a look.

Hierve el Agua

Susmita Baral / Travel + Leisure

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

Monte Albán

Perched atop a 1,300-foot tall plateau, Monte Albán is the second-largest ceremonial site in Central America, home to a well-preserved terraced pyramid and other pre-Columbian cultural artifacts. Much of what you'll see here was built by the Zapotecs, an Indigenous community thought to have settled in the region as early as 500 B.C.E. "Monte Albán is not only a treasure of ancient history, but also a UNESCO World Heritage Site that holds significant importance in understanding the cultural heritage of Oaxaca and the surrounding region," Rabinor says.

Mezcal Experiences

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

Oaxacan Beaches

The state of Oaxaca is home to more than 300 road-trip-worthy miles of coastline , so there are plenty of beaches to explore on a weekend getaway. Puerto Escondido , for example, is especially popular among beachgoers — and a flight from Oaxaca (OAX) to Puerto Escondido (PXM) is only about 45 minutes.

There's also Mazunte, with its cerulean surf crashing into the jagged shore. Check out the Mexican Turtle Center in town, dedicated to the preservation of everyone's favorite slow-moving reptile. Or, if you want to speed things up a bit, head several miles east to the surf town of Zipolite . Relax along the water, watch the surfers do their thing, snorkel in the protected coral reefs of neighboring Huatulco National Park , or enjoy the sunset over the surrounding cliffs — you really can't go wrong.

Best Shopping

Oaxaca is filled with small boutique shops selling handmade goods (think sandals, bags, homeware, and other trinkets) for every budget. Rabinor recommends not skipping the artisan communities outside of town, such as San Martín Tilcajete, San Bartolo Coyotepec, and Teotitlán del Valle. "[This is] where skilled communities create exquisite works of art, including colorful alebrijes (wooden figurines), intricate black pottery, and vibrant textiles," he says.

For food, consider stopping by Mercado de Abastos. You can book a tour of the market with Omar Alonso , a well-known local guide. "This is where locals go to buy everything," Alonso tells T+L. "During holidays, it's particularly packed as we gather the ingredients we'll need to offer to our guests that come during the festivities."

Bar La Giralda

"Every time I'm [in Oaxaca], I must stop into Bar La Giralda for my favorite michelada on the planet," says the co-author of "Oaxaca: Home Cooking From The Heart Of Mexico," Javier Cabral. "They use pasilla chiles in the base. The more you drink, the more  botanas  [snacks] arrive."

Selva is the place to go to appreciate the satisfying blend of Mexican spirits and seasonal, local ingredients. The overall theme here is exploration, with cocktails inspired by the adventures of Alexander Von Humboldt, who marveled at the interconnectedness of the world as he traveled around Mexico and South America in the late 18th century.

Sabina Sabe

End a long day of sightseeing with some spicy, sweet, or sour craft cocktails at Sabina Sabe . Drinks are made with mezcal, or in some cases, tequila or charanda, another popular Mexican spirit. Named after a legendary Mazatec healer, the bar is walk-in only, and worth checking out on any trip to Oaxaca.

Best Restaurants in Oaxaca

Mercado 20 de noviembre.

Cesar Rodriguez / Bloomberg / Getty Images

Oaxaca's bustling market scene is a great place to absorb a bit of everything. Mercado 20 de Noviembre is famous for its variety of food stalls featuring everything from baked goods and pastries to an entire street of roasted proteins, El Pasillo de las Carnes Asadas. Here, you can order trays of meat that get cooked freshly in front of you. For something smaller and more vegetarian-friendly, try the Mercado Organico La Cosecha (La Cosecha Organic Market).

Casa Oaxaca

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

One of the top-rated restaurants in the city is Origen , helmed by 2016  Top Chef  winner Rodolfo Castellanos. For a real treat, try the grilled octopus and chicharrones.

El Lechoncito de Oro

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

Best Time to Visit

Gabriel Perez / Getty Images

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

The good news is it's almost always pleasantly warm and abundantly sunny — except during the rainy season, which happens from May to September. Rabinor says that while this time of year "brings occasional showers and higher humidity" it also "offers lush landscapes and fewer visitors." For instance, he says July is a popular month to visit Oaxaca and can be crowded since it overlaps with the Indigenous cultural festival of Guelaguetza , also called Lunes del Cerro or "Mondays on the Hill."

Early November is also a perennially popular time to visit. The weather is dependably inviting, as it's the start of the dry season, which extends through April. You'll also be able to experience Día de los Muertos celebrations , bringing mirth, marigold, and mesmerizing pageantry into the streets of cities and villages throughout the country.

Oaxaca is most easily reached by flying into Oaxaca International Airport (OAX), or, as it's officially known, Aeropuerto Internacional Xoxocotlán. Nonstop service from the United States is available from Los Angeles (LAX) on Volaris, Dallas (DFW) on American Airlines, and Houston (IAH) on United Airlines. You could also fly into Guadalajara (GDL) or Mexico City (MEX) from other U.S. cities, and then connect to OAX via a domestic carrier such as Aeroméxico or Viva Aerobus.

While having access to a vehicle would be handy for visiting sites outside the city, Oaxaca is pretty walkable and you can always hire a local car service to drive you to farther destinations. Cabs are readily available for securing transportation within the downtown area, while the city's bus system is efficient and affordable. To travel to and from the airport, you can take a taxi or bus if you're not renting a car.

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Oaxaca blog — the fullest oaxaca travel guide for a great trip for first-timers.

Oaxaca once ranked 5th in the 7 most wonderful cities in the world in 2019 voted by Travel + Leisure magazine. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage city. Coming here, international visitors are often especially impressed with the interesting eco-tourism places. Oaxaca is famous for its bioluminescent beaches, majestic mountains and interesting archaeological sites. Cuisine and unique cultures of indigenous people are also what attracts visitors. Heading to the south you will find breathtakingly beautiful beaches. If you are passionate about surfing, these are the coordinates you need to looking for. So, what to do and how to plan a budget perfect trip to Oaxaca city, Mexico for the first-time? Let’s check out our Oaxaca travel blog (Oaxaca blog) with the fullest Oaxaca travel guide (Oaxaca guide) from how to get, best time to come, where to stay, best places to visit and top things to do to find out the answer!

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Oaxaca blog: A brief history of Oaxaca

According to history, the first owners of the Oaxaca Plateau were the Olmecs (1200 BC), then the Zapotecs (800 BC), followed by the arrival of the Mixtecs.

As latecomers, continually waged wars, the Mixtecs sought to recapture fertile lands from the Zapotecs, so that both peoples were overthrown by the Aztecs, and in the mid-16th century those White Hispanic skin appeared, subdued the Indians, built a small beautiful city of Oaxaca with a bold colonial architecture.

The Spanish colonial government assigned the design of the city to architect Alonso Garcia Bravo, the best urban planner in the country at that time, as well as the architect of the Mexican capital and the city of Veracruz.

When building Zócalo – the city center square, Alonso Garcia Bravo focused on creating a balance and harmony between the cathedral on the one hand and the city government building on the opposite side. Thus, from the central square, the harmony between religion and life will spread, covering the lives of people throughout the city.

Oaxaca blog: Overview of Oaxaca

Oaxaca is a beautiful city located in the southern region of Mexico. To the west of Oaxaca it borders with the state of Guerrero, to the northwest borders with Puebla, to the north borders with Veracruz and to the east borders with Chiapas. The state of Oaxaca covers an area of ​​about 93 thousand square kilometers (93.952 km²) with a population of about 4 million people (2020). Currently Oaxaca is the largest city in the state of Oaxaca with an area of ​​85.48 km² and a population of about 705.000 people. The city of Oaxaca has many majestic mountains and is also considered one of the most rugged terrain cities of Mexico.

Oaxaca not only has a beautiful landscape but also has a history of hundreds of years of establishment and development. Therefore, when you come to Oaxaca city, you will have the opportunity to visit many famous architectural works. In 1987, the city of Oaxaca was also recognized by UNESCO as a world heritage site.

Located in southern Mexico, Oaxaca is the center of pre-Hispanic culture and today’s modern culture. Partially covering the southern coast of Mexico, this UNESCO World Heritage City has both natural and man-made beauty. It is most famous for its breathtaking natural sceneries, distinctive culinary flavors, endearing and simple indigenous peoples and traditional culture, as well as its vibrant and brilliant arts along with traditional craft villages. All of these have created a unique tourist attraction in this city. When you set foot here, make sure to discover some colorful colonial architecture as well as the many unspoiled coastlines, dense forests and spectacular waterfalls around it.

Oaxaca travel blog: When is the best time to visit Oaxaca?

Oaxaca is located in an area influenced by the tropical climate. The climate in Oaxaca is also variable with altitude. You should come here between April and May, or September to October every year. These are two times when the weather in Oaxaca is quite pleasant. The number of tourists coming to Oaxaca at these times is not too crowded. The peak tourist season of Oaxaca is in summer from June to August every year as well as the holiday season between December and early January. This time, visitors flock to Oaxaca are very crowded, leading to the increase costs of room rates and services as well. So if you want to save money, you should not go at this time.

Unforgettable festivals

Every year, every July, Oaxaca begins with a jubilant atmosphere of festivals. An unique and most famous festival that attracts thousands of tourists and people from all parts of the country to gather here to have fun and participate in is the “Guelaguetza” festival. This festival comes from the meaning of “giving and sharing”, sending gifts to each other with the participation of many ethnic groups in Mexico, each group will wear their own ethnic costumes and perform their private dance in the bright colors of wreaths on their heads.

There is also a traditional Corn Husk Festival with the participation of skillful artisans who have created unique products with their hands.

Oaxaca travel guide: How to get to Oaxaca?

You can fly directly to Oaxaca via Xoxocotlán International Airport (OAX). However, unfortunately from Vietnam, there is no airline operating the route to Oaxaca. If you want to fly you must transit in Mexico City then continue to fly to Oaxaca.

Bus is also a type of transport that many visitors choose when they want to traveling from Mexico City to Oaxaca city. You can go to the TAPO Bus Station (Terminal de Autobuses de Pasajeros de Oriente) (Address: Calz. Ignacio Zaragoza 200, 10 de Mayo, Venustiano Carranza, 15290 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico) and take the ADO bus . There are many daily buses running from TAPO to Oaxaca to serve the needs of tourists with an average travel time from 5h50m – 6h50m and bus ticket price ranging from $13 – $29.

To getting around Oaxaca City, you can take the bus, taxi, bike. Especially you can take a walk because the city center is quite small but concentrating many main tourist attractions.

Oaxaca blog: Where to go and what to do in Oaxaca?

Zocalo Square

Not only a famous tourist place, but also Zocalo Square is considered a symbol of the city of Oaxaca. This square is located right in the central area of ​​the city. For a long time, Zocalo Square has become an ideal picnic destination for the people of Oaxaca and tourists.

The Church of Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzman

Having visited Zocalo square, surely you can not help but visit Oaxaca church of Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzman. This is a beautiful old church located in the northwestern part of ​​Zocalo Square. The church was officially started construction in the 16th century. However, it took over 200 years to be completed. Visiting Oaxaca church, you will have the opportunity to see an splendid ancient architectural work with extremely sophisticated carvings. Each wall, column, or window frame, and decorative paintings are delicately carved to attract the eye. Spend time visiting the unique church, visitors will immerse themselves in mysterious stories, enjoy a rare peaceful space.

Address: Calle Macedonio Alcalá s/n, RUTA INDEPENDENCIA, Centro, 68000 Oaxaca de Juárez, Oax., Mexico Opened: 1731 Architectural styles: Baroque, Baroque architecture

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

If you want to learn about the long-standing culture of Oaxaca, perhaps the Museum of Cultures of Oaxaca is a great place for you. This museum is housed an old monastery which was built in the 1600s. Here you will have the opportunity to admire many precious antiques. The most special one must mention a skull made of extremely precious pearls.

Address: 1a. Cerrada de Macedonio Alcala s/n, RUTA INDEPENDENCIA, Centro, 68000 Oaxaca de Juárez, Oax., Mexico Hours: 10am-6pm Tue-Sun Price: Adult/Child under 13yr M$75/free, Guided tour per hour M$600

Visit and take photos of colorful ancient buildings

The architecture of Oaxaca will make you impressed as soon as you arrive, especially for those who love “virtual living”. Spend some time walking on the streets and admire the stylish, colorful houses and buildings. This is a great way to have discovered the hidden gems of Oaxaca. You will also find some interesting street arts as you explore the city.

Try out traditional Mexican costume in Oaxaca

Traditional Mexican costume comes in a variety of colors and is extremely interesting. For traditional textiles, you can visit shops: Huarache, Joyas de Oaxaca and Mercado de Artesanías de Oaxaca. Shops in the city also offer a wide variety of goods for you to enjoy shopping like bags, shoes, jewelry, rugs and souvenirs to bring back.

An unforgettable Monte Alban

Coming to Oaxaca, you cannot help but go the “Monte Alban” area, a hilltop holy place built by the Zapotecs in the 7th century BC. Surrounding it there are many mound builders stretching along four sides with a large square in the middle with the central courtyard used as a place to conduct rituals or community political activities.

Around the sanctuary are complexes of tombs, shrines and other public works that testify to a work that will last forever.

Periods: Middle Preclassic to Terminal Classic Designated as world heritage site: 1987 (11th session)

The Petrified Waterfalls of Hierve el Agua

It will be extremely regrettable if you travel to Oaxaca without visiting Hierve de Agua. This is the only petrified waterfall in the world today. Here you will admire an amazing natural scene. Hierve de Agua meaning “boiling water” is considered a rare phenomenon, the waterfall stream freezes in the middle of the hot weather.

Address: Oaxaca de Juárez, Oaxaca, Mexico Hours: 9AM–6PM Friday, Saturday, Sunday: Closed

Shopping at the markets

To immerse yourself in the life of the indigenous people on your Oaxaca trip, you will be extremely excited while walking around the bustling local markets. Colorful rows of houses lead us to the market – where many elaborate handicrafts are traded, colorful traditional dresses to delicious specialties, and ingredients to create many other delicious dishes. If you intend to shop at the market, do not hesitate to bargain to freely bring all kinds of gifts for relatives and friends.

I am really impressed by the colorful streets, busy markets, and the variety of traditional handicrafts. If you are a lover of handmade products, you will not be able to take your eyes off the dolls wearing traditional dresses made by the sellers themselves or the colorful aluminum mirrors or the traditional dresses are embroidered by hand.

In the markets, what caught my attention the most was the chili selling area. At first, I only envisioned they are red and green peppers with different sizes of large and small, but when I came here I realized that there were more than 100 different types of chili peppers. Green, yellow, red, round, long, big, and dry chili peppers are all over the market. This also explains why Mexico is one of the most famous culinary countries in the world thanks to the variety of ingredients and the characteristic spicy taste of dishes.

Oaxaca is full of busy markets, very interesting to wander and explore. Just to the south of Zocalo square is a great place to explore 20 de Noviembre Market (Address: 20 de Noviembre 512, OAX_RE_BENITO JUAREZ, Centro, 68000 Oaxaca de Juárez, Oax., Mexico/Hours: 7AM–9PM) and Benito Juarez Market (Address: Las Casas S/N, OAX_RE_BENITO JUAREZ, Centro, 68000 Oaxaca de Juárez, Oax., Mexico/Hours: 7AM–9PM). La Merced Market (Mercado Merced Comidas) (Address: Rosario 104, La Merced, Zona Centro, Venustiano Carranza, 15100 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico/Hours: 8AM–6PM) is a food market, a favorite place for gourmet.

Other prominent places to visit in Oaxaca:

• Carmen Alto Church built in the 17th century.
• The weekly village Tianguis  specializes in selling red ceramic crafts.
• San Jerónimo Tlacochahuaya church was built in the 16th century by the Dominican people.
• Lambityeco area used to be one of the most important trading centers of the Zapotecs.
• The village of Santa Ana del Valle still retains the traditional handicrafts such as oil paintings, wool products.
• Tlacolula flea market meeting every Sunday morning.

Oaxaca blog: What to eat?

Food always has a strange attraction in every trip and so does Oaxaca. The first taste impression of this city is its quirkyness. Being a blend of many countries Spain, Arab and Asia, the cuisine of Oaxaca is rich in aromatic, flavor and creativity creates unique, delicious dishes. Oaxaca is famous for dishes about insects such as grasshoppers, ants, larvae; the simple bread is perfect for a convenient breakfast and other delicious sweet and savory foods. The attractive foods of Oaxaca will surely make you not forget about this land.

Oaxaca has a strong chocolate and cocoa culture, so you can’t miss the chance to enjoy this flavor. Chocolate is sold in markets and is an important part of the traditional Mexican diet in this area. Chocolate drinks are served daily and also for special ceremonies and events. Try an Oaxacan-style chocolate drink to see the difference and originality!

Some foods you should try in Oaxaca

• Tlayudas : A traditional street food from Oaxaca, are oversized corn tortillas topped with beans, cheese, meats and vegetables.
• Huitlacoche Corn Fungus Tacos
• Enfrijoladas : Mexican enchiladas covered in a black bean sauce stuffed with cheese and ready in only 15 minutes!
• Memelas (Memelitas) : Grilled thin masa cakes topped with beans, salsa, cabbage, guacamole and cheese.
• Tetelas : Tasty triangle-shaped corn masa treats that are stuffed with black beans and cooked on a griddle.
• Tacos : Signature dish of Mexico are made with a variety of fillings, including beef, pork, chicken, seafood, beans, vegetables, and cheese, allowing for great versatility and variety.
• Tamales : Made of masa or dough which is steamed in a corn husk or banana leaf.
• Tamales Oaxaqueños (or Tamales Hoja)

Oaxaca travel blog: Where to stay?

Below we recommend more best cheap, budget, mid-range and upscale hotels with good ratings and reviews you can refer to..

• Quinta Real Oaxaca , a top rated 5-star hotel with room rates from $259/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
• Hotel Casona Oaxaca , a top rated 4-star hotel with room rates from $105/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
• Hotel Las Golondrinas , a top rated 3-star hotel with room rates from $69/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
• NaNa Vida Hotel Oaxaca , a top rated 3-star hotel with room rates from $76/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
• Holiday Inn Express Centro Historico Oaxaca , a top rated 3-star hotel with room rates from $145/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Oaxaca you can refer to

• Full-Day Tour of Oaxaca
• Oaxaca: Half-Day City Tour
• Oaxaca: Monte Alban Guided Archaeological Tour
• Huatulco Bay: Bahías Boat Tour & Snorkeling Experience
• From Oaxaca: Oaxaca, Mitla, Hierve el Agua & Mezcal Factory
• Visit the Bays of Huatulco by Boat
• Oaxaca: Ocotlan de Morelos Cultural Experience and Tour

Above is the fullest Oaxaca travel guide, hope it help you planning a wonderful trip to the most colorful city in Mexico. Check out more things to do in Oaxaca here . Happy traveling!

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30 Things to do in Oaxaca – A complete Oaxaca Travel Guide

A re you planning to travel to Oaxaca soon? Then you’re in the right place! I’ve put together a complete Oaxaca travel guide  that includes a list of 30 things to do in Oaxaca. For 9 months I lived and worked as a digital nomad in the city of Oaxaca de Juárez. 

See, I didn’t plan to stay there for long, in fact, I was only visiting the state of Oaxaca for 10 days during February 2021, but once I landed in Oaxaca de Juárez, I completely fell in love with the city , and on my second day there I decided to move to Oaxaca and had my big backpack delivered to my new Mexican base from my former house in Playa del Carmen, in the state of Quintana Roo. 

This blog post is a compilation of things to do and see in Oaxaca . Recommendations on where to stay and where to eat (including what to eat!). Tips for your visit and some safety guidelines that will help you move around easily.

Consider checking this 3-Day itinerary in Oaxaca if you’re coming for a very limited time or if on the contrary, you’re planning a move to Mexico, know that I just wrote the ultimate  Oaxaca Digital Nomad Guide with all the essential information you need as a digital nomad, including a list of resources that will be very handy during your stay.

Street in Oaxaca Centro

Why visit oaxaca.

Oaxaca is the perfect combination of ancient and new history, it is a mix of tradition and vibrant cultures. Oaxaca is an explosion of colors and delicious smells all around. It is the place where all (Mexicans and foreigners) come to taste some of the best food and mezcal in the whole of Mexico. From local markets to top-notch restaurants and from handcrafted indigenous products to new art galleries popping up every month in the city, Oaxaca has something for us all.

Overall, if you’re planning to travel around Oaxaca, prepare to visit one of the most amazing Mexican states – no joke!

Things to do in Oaxaca Centro

I have itchy feet (surprise!). During my months in Oaxaca, I can confidently say I took every opportunity to check different markets, street food stalls, monuments, and visit indigenous towns and communities. Here is a list of the best things to do and see in Oaxaca Centro and its surroundings. 

City Tour in Centro

There are several free walking tours you can take around the city. You can also get a map and do it yourself or if you like, you can follow my recommendations to tour the city and find the best spots based on my own experience during my months living in Oaxaca .

View of Santo Domingo Temple

Rugs store in Oaxaca Centro

Abastos market or central de abastos.

This is the largest and most important local market in Oaxaca. Prepare for the explosion of colors and mix of smells of all foods and goods from the state of Oaxaca. I thought I saw it all related to markets, but I was clearly wrong. Come check and judge by yourself, Abastos Market won’t disappoint.

Man feeding his child at Abastos Market

Benito juárez market.

I like to call this the souvenir central of Oaxaca. It is indeed a local market but it has higher prices than Abastos. I would actually recommend visiting this place since sometimes is the only way to find very nice local handmade products coming from the surrounding towns in Oaxaca. Even if a bit pricey, It is worth the visit.

20 de Noviembre Market

Closer to Oaxaca’s main square (Zócalo), this is a great option for eating out and local for a very affordable price. My favorite thing here is eating at the smoke corridor or “pasillo de humo” which is a corridor full of locals cooking several types of meat. You just buy your food per gram and sit to enjoy the amazing meal!

Smoke corridor at 20 de Noviembre Market

Artisans market of oaxaca.

This local market has really good prices. All fabrics, rugs, bags, textiles, etc come from the different parts of the state of Oaxaca.

Lucha Libre

Oaxaca became famous thanks to the movie “Nacho Libre” in which a young Jack Black becomes a luchador wandering the streets of Oaxaca. You can’t miss the opportunity to go to a Lucha Libre event! You can check this Lucha Libre Facebook group to see if there are any events happening when you’re in town!

Eat your way through Oaxaca and don’t forget to drink Mezcal

One comes to Oaxaca to eat. To eat in restaurants, drink mezcal in bars (called Mezcalerias), to try all the street food, including chapulines (grasshoppers). Check below what are the meals you shouldn’t miss while in Oaxaca.

Memelas at Abastos Market

Experience oaxaca nightlife.

There are so many options to choose from! My top three places are Convivio (in my view, the best bar in town – always a safe bet), Archivo Maguey (two different floors with different music styles), and Txalaparta (also two floors with a rooftop). Many times, I have partied in these three places in just one night, right in the exact order I have named them here! La Nueva Babel (great Michelada and sometimes life music) Aloha (great cocktails) or Zapotec (life music) are other great alternatives.

Teatro Macedonio Alcalá

This one is not an easy one to visit on the inside, however, is one of the most amazing buildings in the city. Sometimes there are a few events happening and it is the chance for visitors and locals to get a glimpse of the inside. 

Jardín Etnobotánico

One of the gems of Oaxaca Centro. Here you will be able to find hundreds of species, all endemic from the state of Oaxaca. Due to Covid-19 restrictions, there is a limited number of daily visitors, so I would recommend coming in the early morning (around 8 am) to assure your spot.

Me, enjoying a visit to the botanical garden, Oaxaca

Textile museum & san pablo cultural centre.

These two museums are now connected in one. During the pandemic, it is necessary to book a reservation online (both are free entrance), so I would recommend checking if this is still the case when you’re visiting.

Street art hunt in Jalatlaco borough

This stunning borough in Oaxaca is considered by many a little Oaxaca. Is more peaceful than Centro and it is incredibly colorful and beautiful (yes, even more than Centro!), can you imagine that? Moreover, it is the hotspot for Oaxaca graffitis! If you love street art and cute coffee shops, this is your place!

Street art in Jalatlaco borough

Street in Jalatlaco borough

Museum of cultures.

As part of Santo Domingo’s Temple structure, this is one of the most important museums in town since it helds very significant archeological findings, such as the “Tomb Number 7 of the Treasure of Monte Alban”.

Hike around Guelaguetza Auditorium

There is a wonderful hike you can start by climbing the stairs of the Guelaguetza. It is a 2h round hike from where you’ll get amazing views of the city and the mountain range surrounding it.

Guelaguetza Festival

This Oaxacan celebration enhances the traditional costumed dances of the various indigenous peoples of the state. It takes place yearly during most part of July and includes parades of indigenous walking bands, several handicrafts, and food coming from the different parts of the state of Oaxaca.

Día de Muertos

Although this is celebrated in all of Mexico, Oaxaca plays an important role as it is considered one of the best places to celebrate Muertos . Mexicans and foreigners from all over the world travel to Oaxaca to celebrate this festivity. Events take place for several days, being 2nd of November the most important day.

Street painting of a skeleton

Me celebrating Dia de Muertos

Discover xochimilco & reforma boroughs.

Xochimilco is a small borough with gorgeous coffee shops and beautiful street art! I love coming to this area and sitting on any of the rooftops, the views of the city are stunning from here!

Reforma is a mix of local and modern globalization. Shopping malls, international food chains, local coffee shops, and much more co-live in this borough. It is not far from Centro and is the place where most locals live.

Noche de Rábanos (Night of the radishes)

This is also an annual event that takes place every 23rd December and it is dedicated to the carving of radishes and harvesting of flowers that are used to create different scenes all around town.

Things to do near Oaxaca Centro

There are countless activities you could do in the surroundings of Oaxaca City, here are some suggestions

Monte Albán Archeological Site

This is a must-see monument in Oaxaca. I would say it is in my top 3 list of things to do in Oaxaca. These Zapotec ruins not only are the most important in the state of Oaxaca, but they also have a very vital role in the history of modern Mexico. It was after the discovery of the “Treasure of Tomb 7” that the INAH realized the importance of uncovering more of the ruins in the country. Thanks to this, we can visit today Chichén Itza and many others.

Visiting the ruins of Monte Albán

Lake area of huayapam.

This is part of the eco-tourist park of Huayapam. Located less than 40 minutes away from Oaxaca Centro, this is the perfect place to escape from the city and connect with nature. Many people come here during the weekend and to walk their dogs, etc. There are also structures to do barbeques too. Although a wonderful activity, I wouldn’t prioritize this as one of the things to do in Oaxaca as long as you are not coming for a long period of time.

Teotitlán del Valle

This is one of the most interesting towns to visit in the surroundings of Oaxaca Centro. It is known for its inhabitants to have a large tradition in the making of textiles and other types of art crafts such as flower candles, etc. If you’re looking to learn about the traditional weaving process to create unique textile pieces, or you want to buy beautiful rugs, Teotitlán del Valle is your place!

Hierve el Agua

The petrified waterfalls and natural pools of Hierve el Agua have been closed during the  Covid-19 Pandemic. Nowadays, Hierve el Agua is partially open . There are political discrepancies between the communities running the place and the Mexican government, hence traveling with local tour companies is nowadays the best bet.

Natural pools of Hierve el Agua

Petrified waterfall of Hierve el Agua

Tlacolula de matamoros sunday market.

This is one of the top markets in the state of Oaxaca. The market covers all the main streets in this Mexican town. Indigenous communities come from all over to sell their products. Prices are very affordable. I have been told that it was even bigger and more impressive before Covid, but nowadays is also a very nice market to wander around. 

Be part of a Temazcal Ceremony

There are many Temazcals in Mexico and Oaxaca is one of these states where you can do a proper Temazcal Ceremony. Every experience is different and very unique. The ceremony follows the ancestral rituals of cleansing the mind and body. There is a Chaman leading you throughout the process and the duration might be different each time, but it can go between the hour and the 2 hours. This is the Temazcal that I went to and I would totally recommend it.

San Pablo Villa de Mitla and surroundings

Also known as Mitla, this town is a big deal. I would recommend spending at least a day visiting this area. You can visit the Zapotec ruins of Mitla , drink amazing micheladas (some of the best I have ever had in Mexico), and buy very affordable indigenous handmade clothing in the town street market. 

Outside town, you will find something very fascinating. The Prehistoric Caves of Yagul and Mitla are part of the UNESCO Heritage and hold paintings dating back to 12.000 years.

Man in a sombrero sitting down in one of the caves

El tule tree.

This is another UNESCO Heritage natural monument. This tree is famous because it is considered to have the widest trunk in the world. These are surely big words but wait to see the tree for yourself, it is quite impressive.

Barro Negro (Black Pottery) at San Bartolo Coyotepec

This is a very particular art craft that has passed through many generations in families in this little town of San Bartolo Coyotepec. The interesting thing to do when coming here is to visit one of the local family workshops and see the elaboration process of the “Barro Negro”.

Hiking in Sierra Norte

This is one of my favorite things I have done out of Centro. Sierra Norte is quite a special region that promotes ecotourism. The area has one of the best-preserved biospheres in Mexico , as well as a number of interesting towns and villages, some of these are spread all over the mountain range and are considered completely autonomous. They are referred to as “Pueblos Mancomunados de Oaxaca” and they work together to maintain themselves with the resources they naturally grow.

You can actually hike through several of them and stay in the cabins and ecolodges that the communities have prepared purposely for visitors. Note that some of these towns are still closed due to the pandemic, it is always better to check if they’re open to tourism before you travel to the area.

Sierra Norte Viewpoint - Santa Catarina Ixtepeji

Visit an alebrijes workshop at san martin tilcajete.

This is the town that inspired some of the characters in the Disney movie Coco. San Martin Tilcajete is known to be one of the pioneers in developing the wooden colorful figurines called Alebrijes. If you’re looking to find some beautiful alebrijes, you might want to come to check this little Oaxacan town.

Marigold flower fields in Zimatlán de Álvarez

Marigold (Cempasúchil) is the flower used in the Dia de Muertos celebrations in Mexico. You can visit the fields and buy them to decorate the house, the altars, and more. Many Instagrammers come here for beautiful photo opportunities too . If you are coming during the month of October this is definitely one of the things to do in Oaxaca.

El Viejo, posing for a photo in his marigolds fields

Where to eat in oaxaca and oaxaca’s best restaurants.

Nationals and foreigners, all come to Oaxaca for the food . Is one of the richest states regarding the variety and quality of its Mexican cuisine. Oaxaca holds a good amount of top-notch restaurants, but I have to be honest here – for 9 months I have tried food all around town and there is nothing like Oaxaca’s street food !

Street food in Oaxaca

Here is a hint on where to find the best street food in town! 

When in Oaxaca, you’ll have to try tlayudas (best are between Mina and Bustamante streets) memelas (found the best in Abastos Market), tortas (my favorite are climbing Panorámica del Fortín street, only 5 minutes away from Centro), and tacos (seems incredible but there aren’t many good options – the best are Tacos de Carmen between Calle Quetzalcóatl and Manuel Garcia Vigil)! You can also find good tacos near the bus station too.

But let’s get serious, Oaxaca owns a kick-ass street burger : the Cangreburger! (usually found in front of Santo Domingo or at Calle Ignacio de Allende with Manuel Garcia Virgil) and before leaving town, I discovered my new favorite thing that I have personally nick-named el “Tortaco” which is a Torta with 4 tacos inside it that can be found between streets Bustamante and Aldama. Honestly, street food is heaven in this city!

Tacos de Carmen street stall, Oaxaca

Oaxaca’s best restaurants.

Some pretty good restaurants in Oaxaca are Los Danzantes Oaxaca (high-end Mexican food), Casa Oaxaca El Restaurante (pretty good Oaxaca food), Casa Taviche (nice quality / decent price Mexican meals), Boulenc (best pizza and bread), and La Popular (very affordable and good quality local food). Try the seven types of mole in a restaurant too! One of my favorite restaurants for mole is Restaurante Coronita. There are so many food options that it is actually quite difficult to cover it all if you’re coming for just a few days!

Of course, drinking Mezcal is a very Oaxaca thing to do, so that’s one you cannot miss!  Some of the best Mezcalerías in town are Mezcalerita , Mezcalogía , and Mezcalería Los Amantes (this last is a bit pricy), but again, there are many options, especially in Centro.

Man, playing his guitar in Mezcalería Los Amantes

Where to stay in oaxaca: best oaxaca hotels.

When coming to Oaxaca, especially for a short period of time, I always recommend staying in Centro . However, there are other nice alternatives. Many people choose the boroughs of Jalatlaco or Xochimilco and others stay in Reforma too. Any of these areas are a good option and the closer you can be to Centro, the better, no matter which borough you choose to stay.

Here are some ideas depending on your budget  (from low to high budget)

Selina Oaxaca & Casa Angel Hostel are two of the best hostels in town, both located in Centro

Las Mariposas Eco-Hotel & Studios is an eco-friendly hotel with incredible charm

Me, chilling in a hammock at Casa Bumgabilias B&B, Oaxaca Centro

Casa Carlota is located in a calm area in Centro with a wonderful rooftop

Casa de las Bugambilias B&B This is a beautiful Oaxacan style hotel in Centro

Boulenc Bead & Bread Modern hotel in Centro, close to Zocalo and Santo Domingo

Casa de Sierra Azul is a beautiful Hacienda-inspired hotel

Quinta Real Oaxaca is a historic hotel that was part of a former convent. This is, in my opinion, the most unique hotel in town

Tours in Oaxaca

There are so many things to do in Oaxaca that it is overwhelming! It has taken me some time to create a sensitive list of companies to recommend when visiting Oaxaca. As travelers, when we are in a new area and we don’t know what is best, we sometimes get trapped into massified/generic tours that often result in being pointless to experienced travelers.

While in Oaxaca, I’ve seen and done a bit of everything myself, but the longer I stayed in the city, the better choices I made regarding the companies I would do tours with. Some are more pricey than others, but I have personally joined all of the tours that I recommend below and therefore I can safely say that these experiences are really worth it.

THE BEST MEZCAL EXPERIENCE I had in Oaxaca. Mezcal is a synonym of Oaxaca and vice versa. You haven’t really experienced the wonders of this Mexican state if you haven’t visited a Mezcal distillery or Palenque. This tour will take you to a Palenque owned by a local family that has worked in the distillation of the Agave (mezcal plant) for generations. You will visit the agave fields, plant your own baby agave (my favorite thing on this tour), be part of the distillation process, and all of this while drinking Mexico’s best spirit! Want to learn more about mezcal? I have written a detailed article as a  brief Mezcal guide !

Maestro mezcalero, looking at the agave fields with his son

EAT WORLD-CLASS CHOCOLATE & MAIZE while you learn about the origin and legends around them. This is one of the most original (and tastiest) tours in Oaxaca! It is absolutely engaging from minute one. Chris (the guide) is very knowledgeable and definitely knows his stuff when it comes to teaching you all about cacao & maize. I personally, didn’t know how much I didn’t know about these two millenary foods! I would totally recommend booking a tour with him. If you’re interested, send me an email or a private IG DM and I will connect you with Chris.

OAXACA ARTISAN TOURS. This was my third experience having Victor as a tour guide and my favorite of all! Victor is a natural storyteller. He is also very well connected and has friends all over Oaxaca. Thanks to his connections, local families and businesses open their doors to visitors offering very intimate experiences that will surely stick with you forever! In this tour, you will visit several Oaxacan artisans and learn about their work and the arduous process to get their products and art crafts out the door for everyone to admire. You can learn more about his tour here ! you can also contact me privately for a discount on this tour as Victor has become a good friend!

Join a TEXTILE TOUR in Teotitlan del Valle. Since my arrival to Oaxaca, I heard about the many textile tours being run from Centro to some of the surrounding towns. I had the chance to do a couple of tours and I absolutely recommend the Traditional Weaving Tour in Teotitlan as one of the best things to do in Oaxaca.  You’ll spend half a day with a local Zapotec family who has been working for generations on the making of different textiles. You will learn the complete process of how to create the wool threads and obtain the colors to dye the wool. The best part for me was learning a few words in Zapotec and creating my own textile piece using a 90+ year loom. Eating with the family was also something very special. Overall it was a beautiful and very intimate experience and you can read  my complete review here

Me, learning to wave my own coaster

Full day tour of MONTE ALBAN & THE OAXACAN ARTISAN HERITAGE

I consider this tour to be a must-see and I would prioritize this as one of the things to do in Oaxaca. One cannot comprehend the importance of the Mexican archeological sites as a whole without visiting the magnificent ruins of Monte Alban. This tour will include a guided visit to the ruins, a visit to several local artisans outside Centro, where you will learn about alebrijes (colorful wooden figurines) and about the working techniques used during generations to create unique pieces of black pottery. 

This is a full-day tour, but it is totally worth it, especially if you’re coming for a short period of time to Oaxaca! The tour is run by a local tour company, so there is no website to link you to, but you can text me and I will be delighted to connect you with them.

Barro Negro artisan working

Get your best Oaxaca souvenir by getting a PHOTOSHOOT in the best spots in the city. During my months living in Oaxaca, I met several photographers, one of them was Juan Pablo. I had the opportunity to work with him and I completely fell in love with his work and the dedication and passion he puts into everything he does! Not only is he a photographer but a wonderful person – you will love hanging out with him!

If you want a different experience in Oaxaca and would like to have proof of the memories for life, I would recommend booking a photoshoot with Juan Pablo , I consider him to be the best photographer in town!

Best time to visit Oaxaca

Oaxaca is an all-year-round destination. Depending on the season, the city is preparing for a different festivity. I personally think Oaxacans have always a wonderful cheerful attitude – they love to celebrate life! Proof of that is the many Calendas (public celebrations of private events that take place around town) where everyone is invited to join the party. 

Three of the most important festivities take place between the months of July and December, making this period the best time to visit Oaxaca. These are the Guelaguetza Festival (all of July), Día de Muertos (the last week of October and the beginning of November), and Noche de Rábanos (23rd of December). If you come during this period you will find an incredible amount of new events and things to do in Oaxaca – sometimes is even overwhelming!

How to get to Oaxaca

Oaxaca has an international airport located less than 1h from the city center. However, not many international cities have direct connections to Oaxaca. Most of the US, LATAM, and European flights connect directly with Mexico City instead. Here is how to get to Oaxaca Centro from:

• Mexico City

There are daily buses with several companies. I would recommend taking the Ado buses. They’re comfortable and take around 6h to get to Oaxaca main station. A great alternative is using the GuateGo transfers . They are really professional and work pretty well all around Mexico. 

You can also fly from Mexico City to Oaxaca’s international airport. This is a 1h approx duration flight. It can be more expensive than the bus, but it worth checking prices before flying tho. 

• Puerto Vallarta / Baja California / Caribbean Coast

Always better to fly to Oaxaca’s International airport from any of these areas since the journey is incredibly long. Due to covid, connections are now very limited, so probably the way to go is flying to Mexico City and then choosing either to fly from there to Oaxaca or take the bus.

If you still prefer traveling on land, again GuateGo transfers are great to travel from Puerto Vallarta to Oaxaca City.

If you’re traveling from Chiapas, flying from Tuxtla International airport is one option. Ado buses are good too. Here is another way to travel from Tuxtla to Oaxaca City by land.

• Puebla or Guerrero

There are several buses that connect Oaxaca with the surrounding states. From Puebla City , you’ll spend around 4h on the bus, whereas from Acapulco , your journey will take up to 12h. Again, an alternative to these transfers is the Ado Buses.

How many days do you need for Oaxaca

The number of days recommended to visit Oaxaca will depend on your desired travel itinerary. If you’re only visiting Oaxaca de Juárez, I would say 5 days would be ideal, you can check my 5-Day Itinerary to visit Oaxaca City . However, many travelers don’t have that much time, so as an alternative, here is a suggested  3-Day Itinerary I have put together that will help you maximize your days in Centro.

The state of Oaxaca offers very different sceneries. You might want to check the Pacific coast, where you’ll find incredible seafood, less crowded beaches, and more affordable prices than the Mexican Caribbean side. You will also be able to catch some pretty good waves and surf every day in Puerto Escondido and do yoga and relax in the small Mexican town of Mazunte. I would say, 7 days around the coast would be the minimum stay to properly cover this area.

Playa Carrizalillo drone shot, Puerto Escondido

If on the contrary, you’re more of a mountain person, you might prefer the pure/fresh air and breathtaking sunsets over the neverending pine fields of San José del Pacifico or hike across the small independent towns of Sierra Norte. A 2-night extra stay would be more than enough for any of the two mountain areas from Oaxaca Centro.

Sunset in San José del Pacifico, Oaxaca

How to move around in oaxaca.

Oaxaca is a very walkable city. If you’re planning to travel out of the city center to any of the surrounding towns or areas, you can check how to get there using public transport . Alternatively, you can use a Colectivo Taxi (shared taxi), or if you prefer a more comfortable but slightly pricier option, you can order a Didi (equivalent to Uber) if your destination is not too far.

Is Oaxaca safe?

I consider Oaxaca a safe place to visit. I have never had a bad experience living and traveling in Oaxaca, but you are still in Mexico, so the little tips and tricks to be safe in the country, also apply to Oaxaca de Juárez. 

Depending on the time of the year, I would recommend taking more precautions. Festivities like Guelaguetza or Día de Muertos congregate more people than usual so the number of muggings also increases. Taking a “Didi” home (the equivalent of Uber) especially if it’s dark and you’re a bit drunk or avoiding dark/isolated streets, are things that you can do to play it smart and avoid unwanted situations.

Living in Oaxaca

Have I already convinced you? If you have already traveled to Oaxaca or simply are willing to take the leap and move to Oaxaca Centro, know that I couldn’t recommend it enough. I had the most amazing experience living in Oaxaca and I loved my life every day. I would be very happy to answer any questions you may have related to this topic, but in the meantime, I would suggest reading my Oaxaca Digital Nomad Guide .

Did you find these things to do in Oaxaca useful? Let me know in the comments if you have any questions or need any further information about visiting or moving to Oaxaca.

LIKE THIS POST? PIN AND SAFE FOR LATER

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Nancy Kelly

Thank you so much for this information. We will be in Oaxaca January 21-Feb 1st. Staying at Las Mariposas that you listed. I am interested in the tours you mentioned and once I make a list, I will contact you for more information. Sincerely, N. K.

Luna Rodriguez

Hi Nancy – Thank you so much for your message! Glad you hear the guide is useful! You’re going to love Oaxaca, excited for you to visit! Happy for you to pick my brains once you have your list! I can also get discounts depending on the tours you choose! Feel free to reach out once you got your plan sorted!

Hi Luna, Here are the places I could use help with as far as guides and tours. Full day tour of Mt Alban and Oaxacan Artisan Heritage San Pablo Villa de Mitla and Surroundings El Tule Tree Hierve El Agua tour Sierra Norte for hiking Tlacoula de Matamoros Sunday Market-here I believe we can just take a taxi. We will be in Oaxaca 11 days so plenty of time to explore many other sights.

Thank you! Nancy Kelly

Thanks Nancy, I have sent you an email to help you figurate out your tours. Have wonderful day!

Thanks for the great info! Was interested in the hike you mentioned around GUELAGUETZA auditorium? Is there a path?

Thanks! Vanessa

Hola Vanessa! There are pathways but sometimes they might not be very clear. However you’re not very far from the city and if you’ve got google maps, you can easily make your way up to the hill there. I’ve done it a few times myself and it is always a nice activity to do near centro. Have fun!

Celeste cooper

Can you please explain more how you did the Sierra Norte? I have not found much information online about how to organise my time there. Thank you!

Hello Celeste – Thank you for reading this article and for your comment. I have just sent you an email to your email address.

Hola Lunna, Tu guía es excepcional y muy completa, gracias por compartirnosla. Mi esposa y yo estaremos del 23 de Febrero al 29 de Febrero en Oaxaca y despues del 29 de Febrtero al 4 de Marzo en Huatulco. Me recomiendas rentar auto o cual es tu mejor consejo?

Hola Cesar,

muchas gracias por leer el blog. Me hacen feliz tus palabras! Acabo de enviarte un correo respondiendo a tu pregunta. Un cordial saludo, Luna R.

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What to Know Before Traveling to Oaxaca for the First Time

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If it was possible to rate entire cities on Yelp, Oaxaca Mexico would always receive two stars or five.  You either love it or hate it, depending on how you approach the trip and what you want from your travels.  It’s not for everyone, but it’s the perfect destination for someone. 

So is traveling to Oaxaca right for you? Let me see if I can help.

Oaxaca City Mexico: A Quick Overview

Oaxaca is both a city and a state in Mexico.  The state is home to the Sierra Norte mountains, gorgeous Pacific beaches (like Huatulco and Puerto Escondido), and Zapotec and Mixtec ruins. 

The primary reasons to go to Oaxaca include the history, art, and gastronomy.

Where is Oaxaca City?

Oaxaca City is in the mountains, with a beautiful downtown center.  Since it’s at 5,000 feet elevation, the weather is warm rather than tropical and nights can be cool.

As of February 2020, Oaxaca state is not  one of the five with travel warnings from the U.S. State Department .  As a solo female traveler, I felt very safe during my visit. Read more in my Oaxaca travel safety guide .

Oaxaca Pronunciation

It stumped my husband, so don’t feel bad if it stumped you too!  Here’s how to pronounce Oaxaca: wuh – HAH – kuh.

Clear as mud?  Maybe this will help:

So…Is Oaxaca a Good Fit for you?

Oaxaca requires a few days.

Oaxaca isn’t close to anywhere.  It’s 4 hours to Puebla , 6 hours to  Mexico City , or about ten hours by bus from San Cristobal de las Casas .  Even the beaches in Oaxaca state are six hours away since the roads wind up and down mountains in-between. 

If you don’t have at least three full days to spare, don’t waste your time going there.

You Should Be Prepared to Walk in Oaxaca Mexico

There are plenty of taxis in Oaxaca, but traffic is heavy and there are tons of one-way streets so walking is often faster.  Most trips in El Centro are no more than 20 minutes by foot.  As a bonus, walking lets you peek into open doorways, which often lead to lovely surprises.

If You’re Scared to Eat the Street Food, You’re Missing the Best of Oaxaca

Oaxacan cuisine is world-famous for bold, fresh flavors like  moles.   You’ll also find adventurous dishes like grasshoppers and fermented cacao drinks. 

Although the city has high-end restaurants, some of the best meals are from local markets and street carts.  Choose a busy one and lick your lips from grilled meats,  tlayudas , and fresh juices.

Where to Eat in Oaxaca City Los Danzantes :  This five-star restaurant is a “splurge” (you’ll probably pay less than $20 for two courses) but worth every penny.  Best meal — and best service — of my trip.  Hint: if you want to try  chapulines,  this is a not-scary place to do it because they use ground grasshoppers   so you’re not staring at the whole insect.  On Wednesdays 1-4pm, they have major lunch specials if you have a reservation. PAN:AM : With a lovely courtyard and life-changing hot horchata , this is a great place for a light breakfast.  Their baked goods are homemade and as always, my favorite was the  concha . Caldo de Piedra :  This restaurant is closer to Tule than Oaxaca, but is worth the trip out of town to the Oaxaca Valley.  Their seafood soup is made the way it has been for hundreds of years: by putting a fire-blazed stone right in your bowl to cook raw river fish to perfection. Los Pacos :  As far as I know, the only spot in Oaxaca with a   sampler entree of six different moles .  My favorite was the  mole verde , but you can try them all for yourself. Itanoni :   In the Reforma neighborhood and only open for breakfast and lunch.  All their tortillas are freshly made with a strong corn flavor..  Be prepared for a long meal and slow service, but it’s really good.  Order a  tascalate  to drink.

Oaxaca Isn’t Built for Checklists

There are a lot of places that lend themselves well to rapid travel .  Oaxaca is not one of them.  Much of this city is built on ambiance, which means you need to spend time doing nothing. 

Order a glass of wine on a rooftop bar, grab a coffee in a courtyard, or people-watch in the Zocalo.  Besides, if you’re impatient, you’ll hate every s-l-o-w restaurant experience.

Let Out Your Inner Extrovert

You might have to stumble over broken Spanish or you might need to enter an art gallery even if you hate art.  But guaranteed, if you make an effort, there are passionate people all over Oaxaca who would love to chat with you.  Mexicans love to share their culture, so strike up a conversation and see where it leads.

Oaxaca is Perfect for Night Owls

There’s not much going on in Oaxaca before 10am, so there’s no reason to get up early.  Instead, do what the locals do: eat a late dinner and then go out afterward.  Bars are dead for the first half of the evening, but there’s plenty of live music and fun scenes as the night goes on.

Give in to Your Curiosity to Explore Some Cool Things to Do in Oaxaca City

Just a handful of things to do in Oaxaca:

• Wonder how  alebrijes  are made?  Paint your own .
• Inquisitive about whether traditional  limpia  cleansings work?  Heal your soul .
• Fascinated about how many ingredients go into mole ?  Make it yourself .
• Love the fresh air and want to discover areas other tourists don’t? Hoof it on a weekly group hike .
• Interested in pre-Colombian archaeology?  Day trip to the Monte Alban ruins (it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site ).
• What about the hard work that goes into the beautiful local textiles? Meet the weavers and try it yourself .

Explore Beyond El Centro

The city center is beautiful, with churches, pedestrian streets, and the  zocalo .  But walk fifteen minutes away to the Reforma neighborhood and you’ll find trendy restaurants, cute boutiques, and fun-loving bars where you’ll make friends in no time.  You don’t have to spend forever there: just go in the evening for a few hours to explore.

Oaxaca Travel Isn’t For Everyone But It’s Magic for Many!

If you made it this far, traveling to Oaxaca is probably a great fit for you!   Oaxaca has so much to offer for intrepid travelers.

So go: drink mezcal, walk up and down  Calle Alcala , and give in to the little voice telling you stay awhile.  This is a city that I gave five stars.

MORE INFO FOR VISITING OAXACA MEXICO

The best time to visit Oaxaca  is the dry season, November through April.  Throughout winter, days are pleasant but you might need a sweater at night.  For fewer crowds, avoid Dia de los Muertos (October 31 – November 2) and Christmas/New Year’s.  For the lowest prices without downpours, the best time to go to Oaxaca is the shoulder seasons of May and October. Staying overnight in Oaxaca?  Book early at Hotel Parado de Alcala before the cheap rooms get snapped up. Don’t have a travel insurance policy yet?   My pick is always  RoamRight . Going anywhere else in Mexico?  Check out  another guide  like what to do in San Cristobal or why I love Cancun.

Mexico’s Unusual, Spectacular Hierve El Agua

Is Oaxaca Safe? A Solo Female Traveler’s First-Hand Look

30 thoughts on “what to know before traveling to oaxaca for the first time”.

Hi, Becky. Thank you so much for your write-up of Oaxaca. I want to go there next year to take a couple weeks of Spanish classes as well as explore the culinary scene and arts and crafts of the area. I’ve been on the fence trying to decide if going to Mexico is safe and/or a good idea for a solo female traveler. You’ve given me the courage to take the leap of faith and start planning my trip to Oaxaca now. Thanks. Continued fun and safe travels to you.

@MM, I fully believe Oaxaca is safe (and a great place to study). Hope you have a wonderful experience.

I just got back from Oaxaca and I would agree with everything you said here. I think it is important for people to know that this city is very safe. In fact, it really pointed out to me how unsafe cities in the U.S. can be. I am certainly in the 5 star category rating of Oaxaca City. We are already talking about going back since 10 days there was only enough to scratch the surface.

@Hailey – 10 days…I’m a little jealous 🙂 Have a wonderful return visit whenever you make it back!

Hi Becky, I’m very interested in the weaving and art of this area. And also the food. I’m thinking of going there solo but am a but hesitant. What suggestions do you have for accomodations? Thanks, Karen

@Karen, Is there something in particular that is holding you back? My hotel recommendation is Hotel Parado de Alcala

Hi, I have never visited Oaxaca, but am considering a long winter vacation there in December-January. As a senior, solo female traveller, what area is best for apartment rentals. I don’t want to walk up steep hills, but would want to walk to restaurants, shops etc. I usually stay in San Miguel de Allende, where there are bridge clubs, english movies, and active expat community. Are there such activities in Oaxaca? any information greatly appreciated.

@Yvonne, Oaxaca is very friendly toward travelers, but it does not have the same expat community as San Miguel de Allende. I don’t know, off the top of my head, about activities like the ones you mentioned. It is more geared toward short-term visitors (or long-term visitors who wish to partake more in local activities vs. those geared toward expats). That said, you’ll find plenty of English-speakers and I think if you asked around, you might find a few things going on.

The streets surrounding the Zocalo are mostly flat with easy walks to restaurants and shops. North of the Zocalo, you will start to see more and more hills, and again south of the Atoyac river.

Oaxaca is a fine spot for a single female. Dec/Jan is high season so it’s a little tougher to find affordable accommodations. Might try the one recommended in this article. There’s a strong expat population. Try googling Oaxaca Lending Library. It’s where many Canadian and American expats hang out. There’s a bulletin board with rentals and Spanish language learning options and they have a newsletter with upcoming events including language exchange on Saturday mornings. You won’t be sorry if you come to Oaxaca

If you want to meet expats, go to the OLL (Oaxaca Lending Library). It’s mainly English language material, but there ‘s plenty of Spanish materials too. It’s just south of Parque Llano, and on Saturday mornings (10-12), there’s intercambio (language excange), where you can meet both Spanish and English speakers.

Hi! I am a first time female solo traveler in my late 20’s . I am wanting to go for dia de los muertos celebration, but I am a bit hesitant since it will be my first trip alone. What recomendantions do you make for a solo first time traveler. I’ve gotten a lot of encouragement but I also need to be safe. I still have not booked anything !!!

@Ana, Oaxaca is a very safe part of Mexico to travel to and at Dia de los Muertos, there will be plenty of other travelers in town. I’d recommend staying somewhere close to the Zocalo so you can walk back to your hotel after dark (and not have to worry about taxis) and maybe also join a tour the first day or two to help get your bearings.

Many local language schools and tour companies offer group excursions for dia de muertos. It’s so friendly here, you’ll be sure to find people to join up with for local activities. Contact Oaxaca Lending Library. it’s an English language library with lots of resources and activities.

Hi Ana, I’m also in my 20s, female solo traveller planning a trip to Mexico, although not likely to be in Oaxaca until early December, then onto Mexico City, Guanajuato and Guadalajara, then Guatemala in Jan. Are you planning a longer trip, or just Dia de los Muertos? Also, I’m planning to take the overnight bus from San Cristobal to Oaxaca, does anyone have any safety insights about this?

@Kate, Make sure you reserve a nonstop bus San Cristobal to Oaxaca; less chances for your things to get grabbed by people as they get on and off the bus.

Where do you recommend for lodging?

@Kelly, My favorite is Hotel Parado de Alcala .

Thank you! I was having second thoughts about visiting my mom as she lives in Oaxaca. I have not seen her in 10 years and I would love to go visit now that I am older and can travel alone and have the money to do so. I was feeling worried that maybe it was not safe , my mom says it is safe and keeps telling me to go but after reading everything you wrote I just want to book my flight already ! And the best part is , I will stay at her house and will save on hotel and food 🙂

@Ana, Great time to go visit! Enjoy!

Hello, I’m planing to go explore with my daughter and grand-daughter Feb 2020…I’m looking forward to any or all recomendations. We will be travelling from Vancouver BC Canada Thank You Vickie C

I’m going solo and will be traveling from the OAX international airport to Puerto Escondido where I’ll be staying for a few days. I’m renting a car and plan to take Highway route 175. I know it’s twisty and mountainous, which I’m fine with as I’m from Vermont, but people are freaking me out about driving alone. I don’t plan on stopping anywhere on the drive.

@Chantelle, I’ve driven solo in Mexico before also. Even if you don’t PLAN on stopping, please be prepared for the possibility (e.g. flat tire, etc) and have an idea of what you’ll do “just in case”. Hide your valuables, even as you drive through toll booths. You likely won’t have any problems and if you do, it’s more likely to be extortion than any type of violence. However, if you’re not planning on stopping, you might want to look into buses as an alternate. They can be just as fast and very easy!

Hey Becky, I seem to be the only guy with questions about Oaxaca. My wife, who is Chinese, and I are retirees, and are considering relocating due to the progressively xenophobic atmosphere here in the US. I love Ajijic/Chapala, and Su loves Oaxaca. I have never been there. We are planning a month long stay in Oaxaca next Dec. – Jan. It seems to me that there must be more to Oaxaca than the Centro Historico. What makes Oaxaca a vibrant, modern city as well as a foodie’s and culturalista’s heaven? I’m sure the precolonial and colonial aspects of Oaxaca, as well as the multiculturalism make the city worthwhile on their own, but is there more?

@Jim – I’ll do my best to summarize:

Culinary: Oaxaca lies in an agricultural heaven, so food has been and continues to be incredibly fresh and flavorful. There are seven traditional moles, but of course you’ll find hundreds of wonderful dishes to try (even more so than the rest of Mexico). Many talented chefs have started restaurants in Oaxaca, so the dining scene is fantastic and that’s not even counting the street food which is amazing.

Cultural: There’s a ton of history in Oaxaca, ranging from Zapatec and Mixtec peoples (visit Monte Alban and/or Mitla to tour the archaeological sites) to the Spanish/Colonial. Oaxaca is also an amazing spot for art — there are lots of traditional artisans, who you can meet in their studios/workshops, and more conteporary artists as well with galleries that often have special events. Museums range from Pre-Hispanic art to contemporary.

Outdoor: Outside the city, there are many opportunities for hiking or lighter exploration in the surrounding mountains. You can go on your own to some spots or go with a group/guide for other options. The Sierra Norte are beautiful.

Vibrancy: In general, Oaxaca is large enough to have several neighborhoods, each with their own personality. It’s worth visiting multiple spots to see what clicks for you. Some have great shopping, others nightlife, some with local vs. expat identities. Truly something for everyone.

What I very much enjoyed: everyone I met was happy to share a conversation, whether you meet them at the park or the bar. The human connection is hard to put into objective terms, but it can make your trip particularly special.

P.S. Right before Christmas, Oaxaca has a weird radish-carving festival, which is worth a visit if it overlaps with your stay.

Hello Becky, I would like to visit where Maria Sabina has her practice in Sierra Mazateca. Do you have any information on how to get there and any reservations etc…needed?

@Bryon, That area is several hours from Oaxaca City (definitely too far for a day trip). You can get a bus from Oaxaca to Huautla through Autotransportes Maria Sabina. I would imagine that any hotel in the area would be able to help you arrange a visit from there.

Wow! I already wanted to travel to Oaxaca, but now I am dying to! Your article is great and the comments are also helpful. Thank you, thank you for writing this! Dreaming of travel to Oaxaca… It’s keeping me going in these difficult times.

Hey becky, Question for you. How do you fee about the drive from oaxaca city to puerto escondido? Safe right!? Thanks !

@Javi, As far as I know, there are no issues but I’ve never driven or researched the route personally. I do know it’s a long, windy road though and many people choose to fly.

Hi! Hola! I’m in Oaxaca City right now and this is my 5th trip here — discovered it in the pandmeic and I settled in for 2 months here — I appreciate what you have written, excellent advice and best tips I’ve seen on it. Happy I found you. I’ve been leading photography retreats here for a few years and the color and friendliness is incredible. And the foodie paradise! Love. It.

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4 Days in Oaxaca Itinerary: 25+ Things To Do in 2024

Looking for a Oaxaca itinerary that covers the best things to see, do and eat? Here’s how I recommend you spend a few days in this amazing city.

Oaxaca Mexico, a city that’s as rich in history as it is in flavour. If you’re plotting your journey to this incredible city, you’ve likely been entangled in the usual traveller’s conundrum: how many days in Oaxaca are enough to soak up everything the city has to offer, and what should you fill those days with?

Oaxaca is a destination that combines rich history, stunning architecture and some of the best food you’ll find in Mexico. As someone who has wandered through Oaxaca’s colourful streets more than once, I’ve gathered practical insights to help you craft the perfect itinerary for this remarkable city.

This guide aims to provide you with a straightforward, experienced-based approach to exploring Oaxaca. It’s focused on four days, but you can adapt this itinerary to suit the time you have available.

From navigating the bustling markets to finding the best spots for authentic Oaxacan cuisine, this guide highlights the best things to do in Oaxaca for travellers looking for a blend of culture, adventure and culinary delights.

This blog post may contain affiliate links, meaning if you book or buy something through one of these links, I may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you).

What's in this article (Click to view)

Oaxaca travel logistics

Before we jump into my 4-day Oaxaca trip itinerary, here are a few things you need to know before your trip to Oaxaca .

How many days do you need in Oaxaca?

In my opinion, 3 days in Oaxaca is the minimum amount of time you need to dedicate to this city that’s the ideal destination for culture and food junkies.

We had four days in Oaxaca, so that’s how I’ve written this itinerary – you can adapt it to the time you have. If you’ve got 5 days in Oaxaca, then slow down a few of the days and add another day trip. Two days in Oaxaca is possible but I honestly think that it’s just not enough time to get a feel for the city (let alone eat all the food!).

There are plenty of blog posts out there with a one week Oaxaca itinerary, but that only works if you have plenty of time up your sleeve. I’ve written this 4-day itinerary for those who have just enough time to get away for a long weekend . Either way, I guarantee you’ll be booking a return trip before your visit to Oaxaca is even over!

If you do have more time in Mexico, consider combining a Mexico City and Oaxaca itinerary . I have the perfect guide to 3 days in Mexico City that you can couple with this Oaxaca travel guide . It’s very easy to travel from Mexico City to Oaxaca (and vice versa).

Is Oaxaca safe?

I think so! I’ve travelled here both as a solo female and with my husband. I never had any issues at all when I’ve visited and always felt safe , even when we were out walking at night. There were lots of families travelling in Oaxaca, as well as solo females.

That being said, it always pays to be aware of your surroundings. Read my tips on the things you need to know before travelling to Oaxaca .

Regardless of the safety situation, I always buy travel insurance.  Travel Insurance Master allows you to compare across multiple policy providers, while SafetyWing is great for long-term travellers and digital nomads.

How to get to Oaxaca

There’s an international airport in Oaxaca, Xoxocotlán International Airport (OAX) . Many international flights transit through Mexico City but some cities have direct flights here. Search for and compare flights to Oaxaca here .

From the airport, it’s about a  25-minute drive to downtown . You can hire a car, get a taxi or jump in the shared taxis, which cost around MN$390 per person (as of December 2023). You’ll see the shared taxi stand as you come out of customs. You’ll need to wait until the taxi fills up and as they drop people off to their different hotels, but it usually doesn’t take too long.

Alternatively,  GuateGo  offers private transfers direct to your hotel, which will save you a tonne of time.

If you’re already in Mexico, there are plenty of buses and domestic flights from Mexico City and other major cities to Oaxaca. Mexican buses are super comfortable, especially the long-distance buses.

Best time to visit Oaxaca

The  best time to visit Oaxaca  is  October to February  for mild weather. The hottest months are April and May, and you can expect a fair amount of rain between May and September.

My last visit to Oaxaca was in  mid-January  and the daytime  temperatures were lovely  – not hot but not cold, either. It got only a little chilly at night and we saw little rain.

Visitor numbers swell during major  festivals and celebrations . This includes around Easter, the Guelaguetza festival, a traditional dance festival held in July, Día de los Muertos, the Day of the Dead festival which is becoming more popular with foreign tourists (late October/early November), and Noche de Rabanos, the “Night of the Radishes” (!!) in December.

If the crowds are huge, then is Oaxaca worth visiting during these festivals? I say yes! They are amazing cultural festivals that you won’t forget.

Where to stay in Oaxaca

Oaxaca tourism is rapidly increasing, so there are plenty of  hostels and hotels in Oaxaca .

We stayed at  Hotel Siglo XVII  which was in the centre of the city and within walking distance of both the zocalo and the Templo de Santo Domingo. Rooms are built around a lovely courtyard and the staff are very friendly. While we went out for breakfast most days (to try to eat at as many different places as possible!) a breakfast of fruit and eggs cooked to order is included.  Check the latest rates and book your stay with Booking.com  or  Expedia

Other  recommended hotels in Oaxaca  include:

• Flavia Hotel – luxury hotel with spa services and an infinity pool overlooking the city. Check rates and availability online with Expedia
• Casa Oaxaca  – the hotel associated with a delicious restaurant I mention later on. It’s got an outdoor pool for the hot summer days and is in a great location. Book well in advance as rooms fill up quickly.  Find a room online .
• Casa de las Bugambilias  – this family-run B&B is popular with visitors. Each room features the works of local artists.  See if there’s a room available on Booking.com  |  Read reviews on TripAdvisor
• Casa Antonieta  – this boutique hotel has only six, minimalist-styled rooms. Each room has a small patio attached and there’s a coffee shop that adjoins the hotel so you can start your day with caffeine.  Check the latest rates on  Booking.com   or   Expedia
• Hotel Dainzu  – a woman we met on our trip stayed at this delightful budget hotel and said it was one of the best places to stay in Oaxaca. It has a pretty courtyard and decent-sized rooms. It’s also in a great location in the centre of town.  Check rates on Booking.com  |  Read reviews on TripAdvisor

What to pack

Pack good walking shoes to deal with the cobblestoned streets, a hat and sunscreen.

• Armstrong, Kate (Author)
• English (Publication Language)
• 672 Pages – 10/17/2023 (Publication Date) – Lonely Planet (Publisher)

Oaxaca itinerary 

Now for the good stuff! Here’s how to spend  4 days in Oaxaca .

Map of what to do in Oaxaca

Everything I’ve recommended in this itinerary can be found on the  map of Oaxaca  below.

Day 1: Eat the best food in Oaxaca

One of the  best reasons to visit Oaxaca  is for the  food , so start your trip off right by exploring the local markets. If you don’t know your  memelitas  from your  mole , then the best way to discover Oaxaca’s food scene is with a tour with  Omar of  Oaxacking .

A native Oaxacan, Omar knows everything there is to know about  Oaxacan food . He doesn’t take his guests to the touristy markets and restaurants. Instead, he hits the  markets  that Mexicans shop and eat at.

During our tour we didn’t see another tourist. We followed him as he weaved in and out of the stalls in the maze-like Mercado de Abastos, and ate more food in four hours than I usually do in a week.

We tried memelitas, fried quesadillas, atole, barbacoa, tlayudas, tostadas, pulque, mezcal, nieves and regional sweets. He shared with us the traditions behind local fruits and vegetables, and tips on how and when to eat particular foods.

It was a tour that we could never have done by ourselves. Even though we can speak Spanish, there was no way an outsider could navigate the intricacies of the market without local help and we wouldn’t have known where to begin with ordering.

He also knows all the great chefs in the city so he’s a resource for finding out about other  hidden and not-so-hidden restaurants . He gave us so many suggestions – too many for us to have enough time to eat at! Omar is so well-known now he’s done work with Gordon Ramsay and recently appeared on Somebody Feed Phil .

Book your  Oaxaca food tour  with Omar through  his website . He also does private and group trips to markets outside of Oaxaca City and can customise a tour to your needs.

Guided option:  Omar’s food tour of Oaxaca is on the higher end (but totally worth it!), so  this affordable option  takes guests to other markets in Oaxaca. This tour focuses on Oaxaca’s famous corn and mole dishes.

After the food tour, you may need a  siesta .

Once you’re ready to get going again, head over to the  zócalo , the square that forms the hub of every Mexican town and city. This part of Oaxaca City is always bustling, full of people selling street food and balloons, families hanging out or school kids skipping class. It’s a fun place to visit – and you should come back here throughout your visit to Oaxaca, both during the day and at night to experience it.

Make your way up  Calle Macedonia Alcalá , which becomes a pedestrian street for a few blocks close to the  Templo de Santo Domingo . You’ll find vendors selling food and all manner of artisanal goods, from straw bags to cushion covers – pick up a few of the usually very well-priced goods.

Head into the  Templo de Santo Domingo , a 16 th -century Baroque church. Inside, it’s a golden wonderland. It’s open daily except during mass and there’s usually someone inside who can take you on a brief tour (for a fee) if you’re interested in learning more about the church. Whether you go inside or just stay outside, the temple is one of the essential things to see in Oaxaca City.

Next door is the  Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca  ( Oaxaca Culture Museum ), housed in a former monastery. Make plans to spend a few hours here as there’s a lot to see, from temporary art exhibitions to the permanent exhibitions that follow the history of Oaxacan civilisation all the way to modern times.

Also close by is the  Jardín Etnobotánico de Oaxaca , the botanical gardens. One of the most beautiful Oaxaca attractions, you can only visit on a guided tour (to protect the plants). Two-hour tours are offered in English at 11am from Monday to Saturday for a small fee (MN$100). The gardens are beautiful and one of the  best things to do in Oaxaca City .

Mexico may be known for tequila, but in Oaxaca you’ll be drinking  mezcal , another liquor made from agave. It’s a surprisingly complex drink that’s smoky and strong. It’s difficult to know where to start, so make a reservation for a  tasting  at  La Mezcaloteca  and let the team guide you through a tasting.

They’ll  customise a selection of mezcals  based on flavours you like, and teach you how to enjoy this alcohol. Make sure to drink plenty of water between tastes – quality mezcals usually start at around 40 percent proof and make their way up to 80 proof! Reservations required.

Make (or stumble) your way to  Criollo . You’ll need a taxi as it’s a fair walk from the city centre.

Here you’ll be delighted by the multi-course tasting menu that celebrates  Oaxacan flavours . The kitchen is open so you can watch the staff preparing every course, including the women who knead, flatten and toast every single tortilla. Mexico’s most famous chef, Enrique Olvera (the man behind Pujol in Mexico City), is a partner in Criollo.

Day 2: Go on a mezcal tour in Oaxaca

If last night gave you a taste for mezcal, today you’re going to learn even more about the drink.

But first, breakfast. Head to  PAN:AM  for the delicious chilaquiles and fresh juices. Don’t forget to pick something out of the bread basket that comes around (a pain au chocolat, for instance). Everything is freshly made in-house.

There are plenty of  mezcal tours  around town (Omar from Oaxacking also leads tours to family-owned, small-batch producers) but we chose and recommend  Las Bugambilias . I found them through the blog  Brooklyn Tropicali , written by an expat living in Oaxaca, and loved that they take their guests to small, family-run  palenques  (artisanal distilleries).

The tour is an all-day affair, with stops at  three different producers in Santiago de Matatlán (a region just outside of Oaxaca). Eighty-five percent of mezcal is produced in Oaxaca state, and most of that is made in Santiago de Matatlán.

You’ll learn in great detail about the  process of making mezcal , and see where it all happens. Staff at each  palenque  leads the group through a tasting of their best mezcals and you can purchase bottles in each location. Lunch is at a family-owned restaurant.

Guided option:  An alternative tour is  this full-day tour  which provides an in-depth look at mezcal production and education about this alcohol.

When you return to Oaxaca later in the day, have a rest before heading out for dinner at  Cabuche . The  enmoladas , tortillas rolled in a rich mole sauce, are a must, and the tostadas are all delicious (toppings change regularly). It’s a small, family-run restaurant. Service can be slow, but it’s made up for by the tasty, affordable food.

Head back to the zócalo, especially if it’s a Friday or Saturday night – you’ll find the area will be buzzing with families and groups of friends out enjoying the evening. Pick up a crispy, hand-rolled crepe from one of the  street food vendors  for dessert while you wander around.

If you’ve still got energy, try one of the  mezcal cocktails  at  Sabina Sabe , a trendy bar on Calle 5 de Mayo, or grab a table at Txalaparta , a dark bar with a relaxed pub vibe.

Day 3: Take a day trip from Oaxaca

You can take plenty of  day trips from Oaxaca  (you could easily spend a week in Oaxaca) and one of the most popular and beautiful is to  Hierve el Agua .

Hierve el Agua is a stunning natural wonder created by thousands of years of calcium-rich mineral spring water carving out incredible formations. Basically, it looks like a frozen waterfall. It’s about 1.5 hours outside of the city and there’s hiking and hot springs there.

There are plenty of tours that organise a day trip to the falls. Having done the mezcal tour with  Las Bugambilias , I imagine they’d organise a great day trip to Hierve El Agua.

Both  this tour  and  this tour  include a visit to Hierve el Agua as well as other ruins including Mitla. GuateGo  also has a tour that includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, mezcal tasting, a visit to see stunning weavings, and – of course! – the chance to wander the pools of Hierve el Agua.

If you want to  visit Hierve El Agua alone , it’s possible. You’ll need to take the local bus or organise a driver.

For dinner that night, enjoy another  world-class menu  at an affordable price at  Casa Oaxaca , a restaurant that focuses on Oaxacan ingredients.

End the evening at  In Situ , one of the city’s mezcal bars that was recently featured on Vice’s  Munchies  program.

They only have mezcal on the menu, though, so if you’ve had enough of this potent drink, this may not be the bar for you! The owner, Ulises Torrentera, is a fantastic guy (we met him in San Diego !) and is often at the bar so stop and say hello to him.

Day 4: Explore historic Monte Albán

Mexico is famous for corn and  Itanoni  is the place to go to imbibe this grain in many forms. Every dish on the menu of this gorgeous little restaurant is  made from  maíz , and it’s popular with tourists and locals alike. You must, must try the tascalate, a delicious corn and chocolate drink (get it  con leche , with milk), and the tamales, tetelas and… ok, just get one of everything. It’s all SO. GOOD.

As soon as you’ve finished breakfast, head out to  Monte Albán  so you can be out there before the crowds descend and the sun rises too high. This  pre-Columbian site  will have you scratching your head in wonder as you ponder how it was built centuries ago when people didn’t have modern-day tools.

You can catch the local bus or jump on the tour bus from the zócalo (buy a ticket inside the store marked “Tours Lani”), which costs around MN$70 per person. GuateGo has a shuttle that departs regularly each day and can be booked online.

Bring plenty of water and a hat and sunscreen as there’s not a lot of shade.

Guided option: If you want to learn about the site, join a tour from Oaxaca City, as there are no guides for hire at the entrance to Monte Albán, as I had expected.  This 3-hour tour  comes recommended. You don’t need a tour guide, though, unless you’re very interested in the history of the site. I kind of wish we’d had someone to tell us more about what we were seeing.

When you return to Oaxaca City after exploring the historic site of Monte Albán, grab a table at  Boulenc   for lunch. They have delicious sandwiches on bread all baked in-house, and plenty of sweet treats at the bakery next door to finish up with. They also sell homemade honey, jams and pickled vegetables. It’s one of the  best places to visit in Oaxaca  for fresh, homemade food.

Hit up the markets in the afternoon for  souvenirs . There are so many beautiful things to take home with you, from hand-stitched tunics, rugs, pottery and handbags. I’m not normally a shopper, but I just couldn’t say no to all the lovely things I saw.

Start in the two markets in the centre of town,  Mercado 20 de Noviembre  and  Mercado Benito Juárez . These two markets are quite touristy but are interesting to wander through. The  Mercado de Artesanías ,  Huizache  and  La Casa de las Artesanías  each also have plenty of products to choose from.

End the day and your time in Oaxaca at  El Destilado . This restaurant is owned by two American guys who fell in love with Oaxacan cuisine. There’s an a la carte menu or tasting menus to choose from. The venue is gorgeous with food to match.

More Oaxaca things to do

If you have more time for your Oaxaca city itinerary, here are a few more things to do:

• Take a  cooking class . Highly recommended are the classes at  El Sabor Zapoteco . A woman we met in Oaxaca absolutely loved the class she took at  Cocina Prehispanica , held in a commune for young women from villages around Oaxaca that wanted to continue their education.  This cooking class includes a visit to a market to collect your ingredients.
• Detox at a  temazcal , a sweat lodge. You’ll clear out toxins as shamans slap you with bunches of basil.  Ceviarem Temazcal  is a popular option.
• Learn about  textiles  at the  Museo Textil , housed in an old colonial mansion.
• Head out to see other  ruins  at  Mitla  and  Yagul . These are just a couple of the many options for  day trips from Oaxaca .
• Explore the local  street art scene on a bike tour  with  Coyote Aventuras .
• If you’ve wandered through the markets in Oaxaca’s downtown, visit another local market outside of town. In nearby  Tlacolula , vendors from different villages bring their goods to sell on Sundays.  Omar from Oaxacking  can arrange transport for this  Oaxaca day trip  and show you the best spots to eat.

Did you find this article helpful? Consider buying me a coffee as a way to say thanks!

Has this Oaxaca itinerary inspired you to plan a trip? What are your favourite things to do in Oaxaca?

Related posts

Before you go… you might like these Mexico travel blogs:

• 19 Useful Things to Know Before Travelling to Oaxaca, Mexico
• 3 Days in Mexico City: 20 Things to See, Do and Eat
• The Best Things To Do in Cancun, Mexico: An Insider’s Guide

MEXICO TRIP ESSENTIALS

• Book flights to and around Mexico online with Skyscanner . I like this site because it shows me which dates are cheaper.
• Find great hotels across Mexico. Check prices on Booking.com   and Expedia online.
• Check out the huge range of day tours throughout Mexico on GetYourGuide or Viator . There’s something for everyone.
• A copy of the  Lonely Planet guide to Mexico will be handy, along with a Spanish language phrasebook .
• One thing I always purchase is  travel insurance ! Travel Insurance Master allows you to compare across multiple policy providers, while SafetyWing is great for long-term travellers and digital nomads.

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About REBECCA

I'm a travel junkie who started dreaming about seeing the world from a very young age. I've visited more than 40 countries and have a Master of International Sustainable Tourism Management. A former expat, I've lived in Australia, Papua New Guinea, Argentina and the United States. I share travel resources, tips and stories based on my personal experiences, and my goal is to make travel planning just that bit easier.

7 thoughts on “4 Days in Oaxaca Itinerary: 25+ Things To Do in 2024”

Thank you for the very useful information guys! I took notes! 🙂

Glad it is helpful!

Worthy of mention for those who are interested in is San Jose del Pacifico which is situated in the mountains and has an out-of-this-world sunset, they also have a strong culture of hallucinogenic mushrooms.

Hello Rebecca, How long was the food tour with Oaxacking? And, was it all on foot and in the main part of the city?

Omar can customise it to whatever you need! We did a 4-hour tour (which I highly recommend so that you have the opportunity to try everything). Everything was on foot. If you do a mezcal tour with him, it’s by car. Let me know if you have any more questions!

I’ve never been to Oaxaca, but now I’m dying to go! The food in particular looks AMAZING. -Claire tallgirlbigworld.com

Oh my goodness, it’s worth going for the food alone!!

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Travel To Oaxaca

Your ultimate guide to oaxaca, mexico.

Welcome, I’m Shelley …

I have lived in Mexico since 2018, and visited 19 out of 32 states so far (many as a solo female traveler). At this point, you might say I’m a Mexpert!

Today, I use my knowledge & insider tips to help travelers just like you plan the Mexico trip of your dreams, travel to Mexico confidently & safely, and cross Mexico off your bucket list.

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6 things you need to know before you go to oaxaca….

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This Is America's Most Disappointing National Park (& It Doesn't Care)

This underrated north carolina mountain town has easy access to the state's best fall sights, america's coolest college town is in colorado, read update.

There's No Better Time Than Now To Visit Oaxaca, Mexico!

A lot of tourists search for a mesmerizing city that is not overly large yet offers a ton of attractions and cultural experiences, so Oaxaca is the place to go. One of the greatest destinations to visit in Mexico , it offers a wide variety of activities to keep tourists occupied. The ideal place to begin a trip to this bewitching state in southern Mexico is in its capital, which bears the same name.

There are many good reasons to adore Oaxaca! It is home to some of the most intriguing colonial buildings, is extremely rich in heritage and culture, and serves as the center of Mexican cuisine.

Thousands of grandiose archeological sites are also present, including some of the most significant indigenous Mixtec and Zapotec civilizations.

UPDATE: 2023/08/19 15:06 EST BY NOAH STAATS

This article now has ten things to do while in Oaxaca, Mexico, as well as other tips for a trip to the region. From historical sites to local markets to stunning natural scenery, Oaxaca is the place to be this fall and beyond!

Things To Do in Oaxaca

In Oaxaca, tourists may spend a few days seeing the city, sampling the local food , and going on excursions. They may also see the cathedrals and museums during a brief stay at Oaxaca City, go on day trips to historic sites, enjoy regional cuisine, and even take part in a traditional event. Here is the ultimate travel guide to Oaxaca.

1 Stop By The Mercado Benito Juárez

• Address: Las Casas S/N, OAX_RE_BENITO JUAREZ, Centro, 68000 Oaxaca de Juárez, Oax., Mexico
• Hours: Monday - Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM

Something to do while in Oaxaca is to visit the locally-renowned Mercado Benito Juárez . Here is where tourists can find a lively marketplace selling produce, prepared foods, crafts, and textiles.

This is the perfect way to support local businesses while traveling here.

2 Learn About Textiles At The Museo Textil de Oaxaca

• Address: Miguel Hidalgo 917, Centro Histórico, 68000 Oaxaca de Juárez, Oax., Mexico
• Hours: Monday - Friday from 10 AM to 8 PM and Saturday from 11 AM to 8 PM (Sunday from 11 AM to 6 PM)

For history lovers traveling through Oaxaca, Mexico, heading over to the Museo Textil de Oaxaca is a nice way to spend an afternoon. Here is where someone can learn more about Mexico's rich textile industry and workshops for adults and kids. Entry is free as well.

3 Cool Off At The Hierve el Agua

• Address: Hierve el Agua, 70477 Oaxaca de Juárez, Oax., Mexico
• Hours: Open daily from 7 AM to 6:30 PM

Next up, tourists to the Oaxaca area can check out the Hierve el Agua, a set of natural travertine rock formations in San Lorenzo Albarradas, Oaxaca.

These natural formations resemble a waterfall and see many visitors each year. Therefore, it might be worth it to head out in the earlier morning.

4 Walk Around Plaza de la Danza

• Address: C. 2 de Abril, CALZADA MADERO, Centro, 68000 Oaxaca de Juárez, Oax., Mexico
• Hours: Open 24 hours

For those wanting some fresh air, checking out Plaza de la Danza is a great option. Here is where tourists and locals can experience a city park in Oaxaca, boasting the political heart of the city.

This square with a large flag borders the Municipal Palace, so that's something else to see too.

5 Enjoy The Theater At Microenormous

• Address: C. de Manuel García Vigil 714, RUTA INDEPENDENCIA, Centro, 68000 Oaxaca de Juárez, Oax., Mexico
• Hours: Dependent on the show

Another idea for guests of Oaxaca is to check out the futuristic performing arts center entitled Microenormous . Here is where visitors can enjoy an experiential and multi-sensory platform that uses ART in all its expressions to increase attention and awareness of everyday objects and rituals.

6 Tour The Historic Basílica de Nuestra Señora de la Soledad

• Address: Av. de la Independencia 107, CALZADA MADERO, Centro, 68000 Oaxaca de Juárez, Oax., Mexico
• Hours: Subject to availability and tour

For anyone wanting to see an ancient basilica, touring the famous Basílica de Nuestra Señora de la Soledad is worth considering. Here lies a Roman Catholic Basilica located in Oaxaca de Juárez, Oaxaca, Mexico.

It was built between 1682 and 1690 and is a sanctuary dedicated to Our Lady of Solitude, patron saint of Oaxaca.

7 Monte Alban, Zocalo

• Location: Oaxaca, ‎Mexico‎
• Region: Valley of Oaxaca

One thing to do while in Oaxaca, MX, is visit the Monte Album ruins. Here is where guests can explore the ruins of an ancient center of Zapotec and Mixtec culture, located in what is now Oaxaca state, Mexico.

These have been around since the 8th century BCE, so they're a must-see.

8 Templo de Santo Domingo

• Address: Calle de Santiago Tapia 414 Ruta Independencia, Oaxaca 68000 Mexico
• Hours: 7 AM to 1 PM and 4 to 7:30 PM, Monday through Saturday.

The next thing to do while in Oaxaca is to venture over to Templo de Santo Domingo. This is a historic church in the region, boasting stunning architecture and active masses.

Sundays are when worship typically occurs, so keep that in mind when heading over.

9 Ethnobotanical Garden

• Address: Reforma Sur n, RUTA INDEPENDENCIA, Centro, 68000 Oaxaca de Juárez, Oax., Mexico
• Hours: Open every day but Sunday from 10 AM to 1 PM and reopens from 3-6 PM

The next thing to experience in Oaxaca is the Ethnobotanical Garden , a stunning botanical garden in Oaxaca City, Mexico. It spans 2.32 acres of land adjacent to the Church of Santo Domingo. It is managed by the state government of Oaxaca.

10 Oaxaca Cultural Museum

• Address: 1a. Cerrada de Macedonio Alcala s/n, RUTA INDEPENDENCIA, Centro, 68000 Oaxaca de Juárez, Oax., Mexico
• Hours: Tuesday - Friday from 10 AM to 3 PM

Another idea for a day in Oaxaca, Mexico, is heading over to the famous Oaxaca Cultural Museum . Here is where people can explore the cultural center housing archaeological artifacts and ancient books in a 17th-century convent.

Most people spend about two hours exploring here.

11 The Best Time To Visit Oaxaca

Oaxaca has both a dry season and a wet season due to its subtropical climate. Travelers can visit it all year round as there are not any significant cold or heat waves or four different seasons. Expect moderate temperatures, low humidity, and more than 300 days of sunlight each year in Oaxaca due to its location.

The best time to visit Oaxaca can vary depending on the tourist, even though Oaxaca can be considered a year-round destination. October to early May is considered the dry season.

The days in October and November are often pleasant, but after the sun sets, the temperature begins to decrease.

• Best season: Dry season, especially October through April.

12 Best Ways To Get Around Oaxaca, Mexico

Explore the best of oaxaca on foot.

Walking is the greatest method to move about Oaxaca, especially if tourists stay in the touristy parts of the city. Oaxaca City is pedestrian-friendly, particularly along its Andador de Macedonia Alcala walkway.

Discover The Fabulous Oaxaca By Public Transit

Buses or taxis are reasonably priced options for getting around. Most destinations in Oaxaca City and State may be reached by bus, and they are relatively inexpensive. For instance, from the Hotel Rivera del Angel on Mina Street, tourists may take a bus to Monte Alban.

Visitors can also take a cab if they do not want to wait around for a bus. Make sure to only take cabs that are stationed at specified locations, known as sitios.

• Cost: A one-way bus ticket costs $0.5. As for taxis, it starts at $2.2 and increases by $0.83 per mile.

Rent A Car To Tour Oaxaca

A rented car will allow tourists to go at their own pace; it might not be the greatest choice for someone who is not familiar with the area or the driving laws. Aeropuerto Internacional de Oaxaca (OAX), which is about 5 miles (8 km) south of Oaxaca City, is the closest airport. Travelers may use a cab, bus, or rented automobile to get to the city.

Related: 10 Things To Do When Visiting Oaxaca, Mexico

13 Where To Eat And Drink In Oaxaca, Mexico

In Oaxaca, there is no shortage of outstanding restaurants. The city is widely recognized for using cacao beans to make some of the tastiest moles in all of Mexico . A culinary tour is one of the most well-liked excursions in Oaxaca, which is a testimonial to the incredible cuisine available there.

From one street to the next, the flavors of international, traditional, and fusion food pleasantly meld. Additionally, tourists may discover the Mexican favorite street food, which is really excellent and beautifully cooked! Undoubtedly, Oaxaca's eateries will take people’s regular appetites on a delectable excursion.

• Perfect restaurants for breakfast: Chepiche Café, Pan: am Oaxaca, Las Chilmoleras, Filemon
• Best eateries for lunch and dinner: Catedral Restaurant, Los Danzantes, Casa Taviche, Boulenc, Ocote Cocina, El Quinque
• Excellent bars: Cozana, La Mezcaloteca, Mezcalogia, Zapotec Mixology Bar, La Santísima Flor de Lúpulo

Related: 10 Best Mexican Dishes You Must Try

14 Where To Stay In Oaxaca, Mexico

Finding a place to stay in Oaxaca is easy no matter travelers' budgets.

Choose One Of The Luxury Hotels

If tourists want to feel like Mexican royalty, Hotel Palacio Borghese is the place to opt for.

• Cost: $333 per night for two adults in a deluxe king bedroom

They can also spend their night at Casa Antonieta , an opulent hotel in the heart of the city housed in the most charming colonial structure. Yet, it has been updated with a contemporary, hipster ambiance.

• Cost: $276 per night for two adults in a deluxe double room

The Quinta Real Oaxaca Hotel is located inside the Santa Catalina de Siena Convent, a 16th-century structure that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it offers an exceptional, romantic, and all-around wonderful experience.

• Cost: $217 per night for two adults in Novicia King Bedroom

Opt For One Of The Mid-Range Hotels For Your Trip To Oaxaca

Artistic tourists will adore the colorful accents and gorgeous design in this charming tiny hotel in the heart of the city, the NaNa Vida Hotel Oaxaca .

• Cost: $126 per night for two adults in a deluxe double room

La Casa de Pino is also a great option for tourists looking for a mid-range hotel.

• Cost: $94 per night for two adults in a one-bedroom apartment

Tourists looking for outstanding value, welcoming staff, and a great location can go to Hotel Casa de la Tia Tere .

• Cost: $77 per night for two adults in a double room

Save Money By Booking Budget Hotels

If travelers do not mind staying in a dormitory, Hostel Selina Oaxaca is an amazing place.

• Cost: $16 per night for one adult per bed in a large dorm

Hostal de las Americas is another option for the travelers’ night in Oaxaca. They can stay in a private room or a dormitory.

• Cost: $51 per night for two adults in a large double room or $14 for one adult in a dormitory.

The final budget hotel suggestion is Andaina Youth Hostel .

• Cost: $28 per night for two adults in a double room with a shared bathroom.

15 Budgeting And Pesos In Oaxaca

For a single tourist, a 7-day vacation to Oaxaca costs, on average, $1,237; for a couple, $2,222; and for a family of four, $4,165. A private room in hotels in Oaxaca costs between $37 and $350 per night.

To go to Xoxocotlan International Airport (OAX) , the average international flight expenses per person range from $606 to $1,196 for economy class and from $1,902 to $3,753 for first class.

Depending on the day's activities, travelers are advised to allocate between $39 and $54 per person each day for travel and dining at nearby establishments.

Related: Have 200 Pesos? Here’s What You Can Buy In Mexico

Credit or debit cards are required, but tourists should always carry cash as some businesses do not accept cards. Mexican pesos are withdrawn from ATMs together with a standard 3% foreign transaction fee.

Foreign currency exchange services are available at the city's international airport and the Zócalo, or central plaza.

16 Tips For Visiting Oaxaca

One of the safest cities in Mexico is considered Oaxaca. Violence and thievery associated with drugs or tourists are not present here. Nevertheless, it is always advisable to exercise personal safety and to remain vigilant of your surroundings.

To be safe, travelers should always take a taxi home after a night out. Unless tourists are going to or from the airport, they should avoid carrying all of their belongings with them. It is also better to leave the passport at the hotel and to just bring enough cash to cover the perceived needs.

Additionally, it is always preferable to stroll beside a companion or a small group when travelers can.

• In case of emergency: If there is a crisis, tourists should call 911. If that is unsuccessful, call 066.

17 How To Spend The Perfect Day In Oaxaca, Mexico

To have a perfect day in Oaxaca, tourists shall not miss any of the recommended activities. They shall start by exploring Oaxaca's history by visiting the ruins and the Museum of Cultures. Then, They have to try some regional specialties. The food in this Mexican city is incredible and mouthwatering. Later, take in the atmosphere of the Zocalo.

Finally, no trip to Oaxaca is complete without drinking some mezcal.

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Mexico Travel Advisory

Travel advisory september 6, 2024, mexico - see state summaries.

Reissued after periodic review with updates for Chiapas, and Durango.

Country Summary:  Violent crime – such as homicide, kidnapping, carjacking, and robbery – is widespread and common in Mexico. The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in many areas of Mexico, as travel by U.S. government employees to certain areas is prohibited or restricted. In many states, local emergency services are limited outside the state capital or major cities.

U.S. citizens are advised to adhere to restrictions on U.S. government employee travel. State-specific restrictions are included in the individual state advisories below. U.S. government employees may not travel between cities after dark, may not hail taxis on the street, and must rely on dispatched vehicles, including app-based services like Uber, and regulated taxi stands. U.S. government employees should avoid traveling alone, especially in remote areas. U.S. government employees may not drive from the U.S.-Mexico border to or from the interior of Mexico, except daytime travel within Baja California and between Nogales and Hermosillo on Mexican Federal Highway 15D, between Nuevo Laredo and Monterrey on Highway 85D and between Ciudad Juarez and interior cities as noted in the Chihuahua section. Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Mexico.

Do Not Travel To:

• Colima state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
• Guerrero state  due to  crime .
• Michoacan state  due to  crime .
• Sinaloa state due to  crime .
• Tamaulipas state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping.
• Zacatecas  state due to  crime  and  kidnapping .

Reconsider Travel To:

• Baja California  state due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
• Chiapas state  due to  crime .
• Chihuahua state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
• Guanajuato state  due to  crime .
• Jalisco state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
• Morelos state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
• Sonora state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping .

Exercise Increased Caution When Traveling To:

• Aguascalientes  state due to  crime .
• Baja California Sur state  due to  crime .
• Coahuila state  due to  crime .
• Durango state  due to  crime .
• Hidalgo state  due to  crime .
• Mexico City  due to  crime .
• Mexico State  due to  crime and kidnapping .
• Nayarit state  due to  crime .
• Nuevo Leon  state due to  crime .
• Oaxaca state  due to  crime .
• Puebla state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
• Queretaro state  due to  crime .
• Quintana Roo state  due to  crime .
• San Luis Potosi state  due to  crime and kidnapping .
• Tabasco state  due to  crime .
• Tlaxcala state due to  crime .
• Veracruz state  due to  crime .

Exercise Normal Precautions When Traveling To:

• Campeche state
• Yucatan state

Visit our website for  Travel to High-Risk Areas .

If you decide to travel to Mexico:

• Keep traveling companions and family back home informed of your travel plans. If separating from your travel group, send a friend your GPS location. If taking a taxi alone, take a photo of the taxi number and/or license plate and text it to a friend.
• Use toll roads when possible and avoid driving alone or at night. In many states, police presence and emergency services are extremely limited outside the state capital or major cities.
• Exercise increased caution when visiting local bars, nightclubs, and casinos.
• Do not display signs of wealth, such as wearing expensive watches or jewelry.
• Be extra vigilant when visiting banks or ATMs.
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  X/Twitter .
• Follow the U.S. Embassy on Facebook and X/Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Mexico.
• Mariners planning travel to Mexico should check for U.S. maritime  advisories  and  alerts , which include instructions on reporting suspicious activities and attacks to Mexican naval authorities.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .
• Visit the CDC page for the latest travel health information related to your travel. 

Aguascalientes state – Exercise Increased Caution

Exercise increased caution due to crime.

Criminal activity and violence may occur throughout the state.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Aguascalientes state.

Baja California state – Reconsider Travel

Reconsider travel due to crime and kidnapping.

Transnational criminal organizations compete in the border area to establish narco-trafficking and human smuggling routes. Violent crime and gang activity are common. Travelers should remain on main highways and avoid remote locations. Of particular concern is the high number of homicides in the non-tourist areas of Tijuana. Most homicides appeared to be targeted; however, criminal organization assassinations and territorial disputes can result in bystanders being injured or killed. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

U.S. government employees must adhere to the noted restrictions:

• Mexicali Valley:  U.S. government employees should avoid the Mexicali Valley due to the heightened possibility of violence between rival cartel factions.  The boundaries of the restricted area are: to the east, the Baja California/Arizona and Baja California/Sonora borders; to the south, from La Ventana (on Highway 5) due east to the Colorado River; to the west, Highway 5; and to the north, Boulevard Lazaro Cardenas/Highway 92/Highway 1 to Carretera Aeropuerto, from the intersection of Highway 1 and Carretera Aeropuerto due north to the Baja California/California border, and from that point eastward along the Baja California/California border.
• Travelers may use Highways 2 and 2D to transit between Mexicali, Los Algodones, and San Luis Rio Colorado during daylight hours. Travelers may also use Highways 1 and 8 to transit to and from the Mexicali Airport during daylight hours.  Travel on Highway 5 is permissible during daylight hours.

To view a map of the restricted areas, visit https://mx.usembassy.gov/maps-of-restricted-areas There are no other travel restrictions for U.S. government employees in Baja California state. These include high-traffic tourism areas of border and coastal communities, such as  Tijuana ,  Ensenada , and  Rosarito .

Baja California Sur state – Exercise Increased Caution

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Baja California Sur state.

Campeche state – Exercise Normal Precautions

Exercise normal precautions.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Campeche state.

Chiapas state – Reconsider Travel

Reconsider travel due to crime.

U.S. government employees may not travel to the municipality of Ocozocoautla and to the following restricted areas in the southeastern region. All areas within the boundaries, including highway and roads unless specifically exempted, are restricted. East-Northeast Boundary: the eastern boundary follows the Mexican-Guatemalan border from the southern point on the Pacific coast, along the border, to the northern end point east of Netzahualcóyotl. Northern Boundary: from Netzahualcóyotl in a straight line southwest towards the northern limit of Ocosingo. Western Boundary: from Ocosingo in a straight-line south to El Ocote, from El Ocote in a straight-line west to San Francisco Pujiltic, from San Franciso Pujiltic southwest to just north of Mapastepec. South-Southwest Boundary: Highway 200 from Mapastepec to Tapachula. All towns along this highway are not restricted. The area to the north of highway 200 defines the southern boundary of the restricted area. From Tapachula, the restricted area boundary is north and east of the city limits and then extends southeast to the Pacific coast at Tres Hermanos San Isidro.

 U.S. government employees may travel to Tapachula within the city limits and on Highway 225, from Port Chiapas to Tapachula, including the Tapachula Airport.

To view a map of the restricted areas, visit https://mx.usembassy.gov/maps-of-restricted-areas

Chihuahua state – Reconsider Travel

Violent crime and gang activity are common. Most homicides are targeted assassinations against members of criminal organizations. Battles for territory between criminal groups have resulted in violent crime in areas frequented by U.S. citizens and U.S. government employees, including restaurants and malls during daylight hours. Bystanders have been injured or killed in shooting incidents. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

U.S. government employee travel is limited to the following areas with the noted restrictions:

• Ciudad Juarez:  U.S. government employees may travel to the area of Ciudad Juarez bounded to the east by Bulevar Independencia; to the south by De los Montes Urales/Avenida Manuel J Clouthier/Carretera de Juárez; to the west by Via Juan Gabriel/Avenida de los Insurgentes/Calle Miguel Ahumada/Francisco Javier Mina/Melchor Ocampo; and to the north by the U.S.-Mexico border.  Direct travel to the Ciudad Juarez airport (officially called the Abraham González International Airport) and the factories located along Bulevar Independencia and Las Torres is permitted.  Travel to San Jerónimo is permitted only through the United States via the Santa Teresa U.S. Port of Entry; travel via Anapra is prohibited.

U.S. government employees may only travel from Ciudad Juarez to the city of Chihuahua during daylight hours via Federal Highway 45, with stops permitted only at the Guardia Nacional División Caminos station, the Umbral del Milenio overlook area, the border inspection station at KM 35, and the shops and restaurants on Federal Highway 45 in the city of Ahumada.

• U.S. government employees may travel between Ciudad Juarez and Ascension via Highway 2.
• Nuevo Casas Grandes Area (including Nuevo Casas Grandes, Casas Grandes, Mata Ortiz, Colonia Juárez, Colonia LeBaron, Paquimé and San Buenaventura):  U.S. government employees may travel to the Nuevo Casas Grandes area during daylight hours via Mexico Federal Highway 2, and subsequently Federal Highway 10, to Nuevo Casas Grandes.  Employees are permitted to stay overnight in the cities of Nuevo Casas Grandes and Casas Grandes only.
• City of Chihuahua:  U.S. government employees may travel at any time to the area of the city of Chihuahua bounded to the north by Avenida Transformación; to the east by Avenida Tecnológico/Manuel Gómez Morín/Highway 16/Blvd.José Fuentes Mares; to the west by the city boundary; and to the south by Periférico Francisco R. Almada.
• U.S. government employees may travel on Highways 45, 16, and 45D through the city of Chihuahua and to the Chihuahua airport (officially called the General Roberto Fierro Villalobos International Airport). 
• U.S. government employees may travel to Santa Eulalia to the east of the city of Chihuahua, as well as to Juan Aldama via Highway 16 to the northeast.
• U.S. government employees may travel south of the city of Chihuahua on Highway 45 to the southern boundary of Parral, including each town directly connected to Highway 45, including Lázaro Cárdenas, Pedro Meoqui, Santa Cruz de Rosales, Delicias, Camargo, Ciudad Jiménez, and Parral itself.
• U.S. government employees may only travel on official business from the city of Chihuahua on Highway 16 to Ciudad Cuauhtémoc bounded by Highway 21 to the north and east, Highway 5 to the west, and Bulevar Jorge Castillo Cabrera to the south. 
• Ojinaga:  U.S. government employees must travel to Ojinaga via U.S. Highway 67 and enter through the U.S. Port of Entry in Presidio, Texas.
• Palomas:  U.S. government employees may travel to Palomas via U.S. highways through the U.S. Port of Entry in Columbus, New Mexico, or via Highway 2 in Mexico.

To view a map of the restricted areas, visit https://mx.usembassy.gov/maps-of-restricted-areas U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas of Chihuahua, including  Copper Canyon .

Coahuila state – Exercise Increased Caution

Violent crime and gang activity occur in parts of Coahuila state. 

U.S. government employees must adhere to the following travel restrictions:

• Zaragoza, Morelos, Allende, Nava, Jimenez, Villa Union, Guerrero, and Hidalgo municipalities : U.S. government employees may not travel to these municipalities.
• Piedras Negras and Ciudad Acuña:  U.S. government employees must travel directly from the United States and observe a curfew from midnight to 6:00 a.m. in both cities.

To view a map of the restricted areas, visit https://mx.usembassy.gov/maps-of-restricted-areas There are no other restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Coahuila state.

Colima state – Do Not Travel

Do not travel due to crime and kidnapping.  

Violent crime and gang activity are widespread. Most homicides are targeted assassinations against members of criminal organizations. Shooting incidents between criminal groups have injured or killed bystanders. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.  

Travel for U.S. government employees is limited to the following areas with noted restrictions: 

• Manzanillo:   U.S. government employee travel is limited to the tourist and port areas of Manzanillo.  
• Employees traveling to Manzanillo from Guadalajara must use Federal Toll Road 54D during daylight hours.  

To view a map of the restricted areas, visit https://mx.usembassy.gov/maps-of-restricted-areas U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas of Colima state. 

Durango state – Exercise Increased Caution

Violent crime and gang activity are common in parts of Durango state.

• West and south of Federal Highway 45:  U.S. government employees may not travel to this region of Durango state.

To view a map of the restricted areas, visit https://mx.usembassy.gov/maps-of-restricted-areas There are no other restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Durango state.

Guanajuato state – Reconsider Travel

Gang violence, often associated with the theft of petroleum and natural gas from the state oil company and other suppliers, occurs in Guanajuato, primarily in the south and central areas of the state. Of particular concern is the high number of murders in the southern region of the state associated with cartel-related violence. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

• Areas south of Federal Highway 45D:  U.S. government employees may not travel to the area south of and including Federal Highway 45D, Celaya, Salamanca, and Irapuato.

To view a map of the restricted areas, visit https://mx.usembassy.gov/maps-of-restricted-areas There are no other restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Guanajuato state, which includes tourist areas in:  San Miguel de Allende ,  Guanajuato City , and  surrounding areas.

Guerrero state – Do Not Travel

Do not travel due to crime.

Crime and violence are widespread. Armed groups operate independently of the government in many areas of Guerrero. Members of these groups frequently maintain roadblocks and may use violence towards travelers. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping in previous years.

U.S. government employees may not travel to any area in the state of Guerrero, including to tourist areas in  Acapulco ,  Zihuatanejo , Taxco , and  Ixtapa .

Hidalgo state – Exercise Increased Caution

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Hidalgo state.

Jalisco state – Reconsider Travel

Violent crime and gang activity are common in parts of Jalisco state. In Guadalajara, territorial battles between criminal groups take place in tourist areas. Shooting incidents between criminal groups have injured or killed innocent bystanders. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

• Jalisco-Michoacan border and Federal Highway 110:  U.S. government employees may not travel to the area between Federal Highway 110 and the Jalisco-Michoacan border, nor travel on Federal Highway 110 between Tuxpan, Jalisco, and the Michoacan border.
• Federal Highway 80:  U.S. government employees may not travel on Federal Highway 80 south of Cocula.

To view a map of the restricted areas, visit https://mx.usembassy.gov/maps-of-restricted-areas There are no other restrictions on travel for U.S government employees in Jalisco state which includes tourist areas in:  Guadalajara Metropolitan Area ,  Puerto Vallarta (including neighboring Riviera Nayarit) ,  Chapala , and  Ajijic .

Mexico City (Ciudad de Mexico) – Exercise Increased Caution

Both violent and non-violent crime occur throughout Mexico City. Use additional caution, particularly at night, outside of the frequented tourist areas where police and security patrol more routinely. Petty crime occurs frequently in both tourist and non-tourist areas.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Mexico City.

Mexico State (Estado de Mexico) – Exercise Increased Caution

Exercise increased caution due to crime and kidnapping.

Both violent and non-violent crime occur throughout Mexico State. Use additional caution in areas outside of the frequented tourist areas, although petty crime occurs frequently in tourist areas as well. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping. There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Mexico State.

Michoacan state – Do Not Travel

Do not travel due to crime and kidnapping.

Crime and violence are widespread in Michoacan state. Travel for U.S. government employees is limited to the following areas with the noted restrictions:

• Federal Highway 15D:   U.S. government employees may travel on Federal Highway 15D to transit the state between Mexico City and Guadalajara.
• Morelia:  U.S. government employees may travel by air and by land using Federal Highways 43 or 48D from Federal Highway 15D.
• Lazaro Cardenas:  U.S. government employees must travel by air only and limit activities to the city center or port areas.

To view a map of the restricted areas, visit https://mx.usembassy.gov/maps-of-restricted-areas U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas of the state of Michoacan, including the portions of the  Monarch Butterfly Reserve  located in Michoacan.

Morelos state – Reconsider Travel

Reconsider travel due to crime and kidnapping.

Violent crime and gang activity are common in parts of Morelos state. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Morelos state.

Nayarit state – Exercise Increased Caution

Criminal activity and violence may occur throughout Nayarit state.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S government employees in Nayarit state.

Nuevo Leon state – Exercise Increased Caution

Criminal activity and violence may occur throughout the state. There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Nuevo Leon state.

Oaxaca state – Exercise Increased Caution

Criminal activity and violence occur throughout the state.

U.S. travelers are reminded that U.S. government employees must adhere to the following travel restrictions:

• Isthmus region:  U.S. government employees may not travel to the area of Oaxaca bounded by Federal Highway 185D to the west, Federal Highway 190 to the north, and the Oaxaca-Chiapas border to the east.  This includes the cities of Juchitan de Zaragoza, Salina Cruz, and San Blas Atempa.  
• Federal Highway 200 northwest of Pinotepa:  U.S. government employees may not use Federal Highway 200 between Pinotepa and the Oaxaca-Guerrero border.

To view a map of the restricted areas, visit https://mx.usembassy.gov/maps-of-restricted-areas There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees to other parts of Oaxaca state, which include tourist areas in:  Oaxaca City ,  Monte Alban ,  Puerto Escondido,  and  Huatulco .

Puebla state – Exercise Increased Caution

Exercise increased caution due to crime and kidnapping.

Criminal activity and violence may occur throughout the state. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Puebla state.

Queretaro state – Exercise Increased Caution

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Queretaro state.

Quintana Roo state – Exercise Increased Caution

Criminal activity and violence may occur in any location, at any time, including in popular tourist destinations. While not directed at tourists, shootings between rival gangs have injured and killed innocent bystanders, including U.S. citizens. Violent crime, including homicides and assaults, has increased in Tulum.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Quintana Roo state. Exercise increased caution after dark in Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum and remain in well-lit pedestrian streets and tourist zones.

San Luis Potosi state – Exercise Increased Caution

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in San Luis Potosi state.

Sinaloa state – Do Not Travel

Violent crime is widespread. Criminal organizations are based in and operating in Sinaloa.

Travel for U.S. government employees is limited to the following areas with the noted restrictions:

• Mazatlan:  U.S. government employees may travel to Mazatlan by air or sea only, are limited to the Zona Dorada and historic town center, and must travel via direct routes between these destinations and the airport and sea terminal.
• Los Mochis and Topolobampo:  U.S. government employees may travel to Los Mochis and Topolobampo by air or sea only, are restricted to the city and the port, and must travel via direct routes between these destinations and the airport.

To view a map of the restricted areas, visit https://mx.usembassy.gov/maps-of-restricted-areas U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas of Sinaloa state.

Sonora state – Reconsider Travel

Sonora is a key location used by the international drug trade and human trafficking networks. Violent crime is widespread. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping. Travelers should maintain a heightened level of awareness of their surroundings in all their travels in Sonora.  Security incidents may occur in any area of Sonora.

• Travel between Hermosillo and Nogales:  U.S. government employees may travel between the U.S. Ports of Entry in Nogales and Hermosillo during daylight hours via Federal Highway 15 only. U.S. government employees may not use ANY taxi services, public buses, nor ride-share applications due to a lack of secure vetting and/or dispatching procedures. Travelers should exercise caution and avoid unnecessary stops as security incidents, including sporadic, armed carjackings, and shootings have been reported along this highway during daylight hours. Travelers should have a full tank of gas and inform friends or family members of their planned travel.
• Nogales:  U.S. government employees may not travel in the triangular area north of Avenida Tecnologico, west of Bulevar Luis Donaldo Colosio (Periferico), nor east of Federal Highway 15D (Corredor Fiscal). U.S. government employees also may not travel in the residential and business areas to east of the railroad tracks along Plutarco Elias Calle (HWY 15) and Calle Ruiz Cortino, including the business area around the Morley pedestrian gate port-of-entry. U.S. government employees may not use ANY taxi services, public buses, nor ride-share applications in Nogales due to a lack of secure vetting and/or dispatching procedures and the danger of kidnapping and other violent crimes.  
• Puerto Peñasco:  U.S. government employees may travel between Puerto Peñasco and the Lukeville-Sonoyta U.S. Port of Entry during daylight hours via Federal Highway 8 only. They may not travel on any other route to Puerto Peñasco. U.S. government employees may not use ANY taxi services, public buses, nor ride-share applications in Puerto Peñasco. due to a lack of secure vetting and/or dispatching procedures and the danger of kidnapping and other violent crimes.
• Triangular region near Mariposa U.S. Port of Entry:  U.S. government employees may not travel into or through the triangular region west of the Mariposa U.S. Port of Entry, east of Sonoyta, and north of Altar municipality.
• San Luis Rio Colorado, Cananea, and Agua Prieta : U.S. government employees may travel directly from the nearest U.S. Port of Entry to San Luis Rio Colorado, Cananea (via Douglas Port of Entry), and Agua Prieta, but may not go beyond the city limits. Travel is limited to daylight hours only. Travel between Nogales and Cananea via Imuris is not permitted. U.S. government employees may not use ANY taxi services, public buses, nor ride-share applications in these cities due to a lack of secure vetting and/or dispatching procedures and the danger of kidnapping and other violent crimes.
• Eastern and southern Sonora (including San Carlos Nuevo Guaymas and Alamos):  U.S. government employees may not travel to areas of Sonora east of Federal Highway 17, the road between Moctezuma and Sahuaripa, and State Highway 20 between Sahuaripa and the intersection with Federal Highway 16. U.S. government employees may travel to San Carlos Nuevo Guaymas and Alamos; travel to Alamos is only permitted by air and within city limits.  U.S. government employees may not travel to areas of Sonora south of Federal Highway 16 and east of Federal Highway 15 (south of Hermosillo), as well as all points south of Guaymas, including Empalme, Guaymas, Obregon, and Navojoa.  U.S. government employees may not use ANY taxi services, public buses, nor ride-share applications in these areas due to a lack of secure vetting and/or dispatching procedures and the danger of kidnapping and other violent crimes.

To view a map of the restricted areas, visit https://mx.usembassy.gov/maps-of-restricted-areas U.S. government employees may travel to other parts of Sonora state in compliance with the above restrictions, including tourist areas in: Hermosillo , Bahia de Kino , and Puerto Penasco .

Tabasco state – Exercise Increased Caution

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Tabasco state.

Tamaulipas state – Do Not Travel

Organized crime activity – including gun battles, murder, armed robbery, carjacking, kidnapping, forced disappearances, extortion, and sexual assault – is common along the northern border and in Ciudad Victoria. Criminal groups target public and private passenger buses, as well as private automobiles traveling through Tamaulipas, often taking passengers and demanding ransom payments.

Heavily armed members of criminal groups often patrol areas of the state and operate with impunity particularly along the border region from Reynosa to Nuevo Laredo. In these areas, local law enforcement has limited capacity to respond to incidents of crime. Law enforcement capacity is greater in the tri-city area of Tampico, Ciudad Madero, and Altamira, which has a lower rate of violent criminal activity compared to the rest of the state. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

• Matamoros and Nuevo Laredo:  U.S. government employees may only travel within a limited radius around and between the U.S. Consulates in Nuevo Laredo and Matamoros, their homes, the respective U.S. Ports of Entry, and limited downtown sites, subject to an overnight curfew.
• Overland travel in Tamaulipas:  U.S. government employees may not travel between cities in Tamaulipas using interior Mexican highways. Travel between Nuevo Laredo and Monterrey is limited to Federal Highway 85D during daylight hours with prior authorization.

To view a map of the restricted areas, visit https://mx.usembassy.gov/maps-of-restricted-areas U.S. government employees may not travel to other parts of Tamaulipas state.

Tlaxcala state – Exercise Increased Caution

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Tlaxcala state.

Veracruz state – Exercise Increased Caution

Violent crime and gang activity occur with increasing frequency in Veracruz, particularly in the center and south near Cordoba and Coatzacoalcos. While most gang-related violence is targeted, violence perpetrated by criminal organizations can affect bystanders. Impromptu roadblocks requiring payment to pass are common. There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Veracruz state.

Yucatan state – Exercise Normal Precautions

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Yucatan state, which include tourist areas in:  Chichen Itza ,  Merida ,  Uxmal , and  Valladolid .

Zacatecas state – Do Not Travel

Violent crime, extortion, and gang activity are widespread in Zacatecas state. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

• Zacatecas City : U.S. government employee travel is limited to Zacatecas City proper, and employees may not travel overland to Zacatecas City.
• U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas of Zacatecas state.

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