33 Best Things to Do in Oaxaca City Mexico (2026): Food, Culture & Day Trips
If you’re looking for the best things to do in Oaxaca, Mexico, you’ve come to the right place. No city in Mexico rewards curiosity quite like Oaxaca — the food alone could justify the trip (seven moles, world-class mezcal, chocolate, tlayudas, chapulines), but Oaxaca, Mexico, is so much more than that. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage city with a living indigenous culture, some of the most impressive archaeological sites in the country, a thriving contemporary art scene, and a festival calendar that never really stops.
I’m Mexican, and I’ve visited Oaxaca more times than I can count. Every single time, I find something new. In this 2026 guide, I’ll share everything you need to plan the perfect trip — the best things to do in Oaxaca City, where to eat, where to stay, how to get here, and the practical tips that most travel guides skip.
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¿Oaxaca City, Mexico, at a Glance
- 📍 Location: Southwest Mexico, capital of Oaxaca state
- 🏛️ UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987
- ✈️ Airport: Xoxocotlán International Airport (OAX) — 20 minutes from city center
- 🌡️ Altitude: 1,555 meters (5,102 feet) — hydrate on arrival
- 💰 Currency: Mexican pesos — bring cash, many markets are cash only
- 🚕 Getting around: Walking, taxis, DiDi app (Uber does not operate in Oaxaca)
- 💧 Water: Do not drink tap water
- 🌿 Water conservation: Oaxaca has an ongoing water crisis — take short showers and turn off taps when not in use
- 🗣️ Language: Spanish is primary — 16 indigenous languages also spoken in the state
- 🌤️ Best time to visit: November through April (dry season)
Oaxaca City is the capital of the eponymous state in southwestern Mexico.
This city has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987. It used to be called “Verde Antequera” (green Antequera, for a city in Spain).
Verde means green, and it is the color of the quarry used to build the impressive colonial architecture of the time.
The given name today is Oaxaca de Juárez, in honor of the former Zapotecan president of Mexico (1858 – 1872), Don Benito Juárez.
Oaxaca History and Culture
Oaxaca City was founded in 1529 by the indigenous Zapotec culture. Since then, the city center has been the center of economic, political, social, religious, and cultural activities that give the city its dynamism.
It preserves many icons that represent a cultural tradition of more than four centuries of art and the rich history of indigenous cultures.
Oaxaca is home to friendly people with many talents and a wealth of cultural events that attract travelers worldwide.
The city’s grandeur is best experienced at the many festivals that occur throughout the year. These festivals showcase the essence and heart of this destination and its people.
Carnival time is a time of joy and fills the city with sound and color. Holy Week is a time of reflection and respect for the city’s religiosity.
In summer, residents are busy with sports and dancing. The festivals of Mole, Tejate (local drink), Tamal, and Mezcal proudly display the diversity of gastronomy and flavors.
And, of course, the Day of the Dead celebrations, where the city dresses in all the elements that attract our ancestors to this annual gathering.
As you can see, Oaxaca has much to offer throughout the year for the eye and all the senses to explore and discover.
In Oaxaca, you can walk and take pictures, visit places, and participate in guided tours that will help you understand the political, economic, and social issues that have long plagued the city.
✈️ How to Get to Oaxaca
By plane: Oaxaca has its own international airport, Xoxocotlán International Airport (OAX), located about 20 minutes from the city center. From Mexico, you can fly from Mexico City, Guadalajara, Cancún, and Mérida. From the US, there are direct flights from Dallas, Houston, and Los Angeles. Most other international routes connect through Mexico City. A private taxi from the airport costs around $28 USD, or a shared transfer around $7 USD.
By bus: If you’re already in Mexico, ADO buses are comfortable and reliable. Direct routes include:
- From Mexico City: approximately 7 hours
- From Puebla: approximately 5 hours
- From Puerto Escondido: approximately 3 hours
By car: Driving from Mexico City takes around 6–7 hours via the MEX-135D toll road. It’s a scenic route but has some mountainous sections — not recommended at night.
🚕 Getting Around Oaxaca
The historic center of Oaxaca is very compact and completely walkable — most of the main attractions are within a 30-minute walk of each other. Comfortable shoes are your most important tool here.
DiDi is the main rideshare app operating in Oaxaca (Uber does not operate here). Download it before you arrive and use it for getting around when you don’t want to walk or negotiate with taxis.
Taxis are plentiful and generally honest in Oaxaca. Always confirm the fare before getting in. Fixed-rate taxis are available at the airport.
Colectivos (shared minivans) are the cheapest way to get between the city and surrounding towns and villages. They depart from various points around the city center and are how locals travel. Ask your hotel for the nearest departure point for your destination.
For day trips to Monte Albán, Hierve el Agua, or the artisan villages, booking a guided tour is the most practical option and often the most affordable when you factor in the time saved.
📅 Best Time to Visit Oaxaca
The best time to visit Oaxaca is during the dry season from November through April, when days are warm and sunny, nights are cool, and rainfall is minimal. This is the most comfortable time to explore the city and take day trips.
November is one of the best months — the famous Día de los Muertos celebrations (October 31–November 2) make Oaxaca one of the most magical places in Mexico to be, though book accommodation very far in advance as the city fills up completely.
December through February is peak season with the most pleasant weather. The Night of the Radishes on December 23rd is a uniquely Oaxacan tradition not to miss.
July is when the Guelaguetza Festival takes place — one of Mexico’s most spectacular indigenous cultural celebrations. The city is extremely lively, but busy and more expensive.
May through October is the rainy season. Afternoons can bring showers, but mornings are usually clear. Prices drop and crowds thin significantly — a great time to visit on a budget.
How many days do you need? I recommend at least 5 days to experience the city properly and do 2–3 day trips. A full week or 10 days is ideal if Oaxaca is your main destination.
Unmissable Things to Do in Oaxaca City, Mexico
1. Walk Walk Walk (And Visit the Tourism Office)
Honestly, I am a bit old school and love paper. Every time I am in a new place, I grab a map, figure out how far the “safe area” is to roam, and then I just go.
I also usually talk to the people at the hotel or lodging I am staying at. I ask them: where do you go? Where do you eat? What to do in Oaxaca City, Mexico? This works great for me; you get to connect with the locals instead of looking at an Oaxaca travel guide.
Also, on my walks, I usually make the tourist office my first stop to find out about any special events or activities that might be going on during my stay.
The Oaxaca tourism office I usually visit is located downtown at 102 Calle Mariano Matamoros, and of course, there are other offices scattered around the city. They are usually open between 9:00 am and 6:00 pm.
2. Take a City Tour or a Free Walking Tour
For shared or private city tours (and other tours), I have mentioned them before, and I am probably biased (but no, they are the best).
You can contact Trez Travel, a fantastic local travel agency with lots of experience in the city and the state of Oaxaca.
And you can contact Gabriel Sanchez, who offers top-notch private services and tours.
There are many city tours I will include below, or you can go directly to the main tourist attractions and find local guides offering paid mini-tours, for example at the Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzmán.
Regarding a free walking tour, I recommend the one organized by Estación Mexico. It takes you outside the main downtown attractions and takes place every day at 11 am.
The meeting point is the main zocalo in front of the El Márques del Valle hotel.
I always take these tours and highly recommend them as a starting point. Please remember that “free” does not mean you take the tour and leave without paying anything.
The guides do this job for a tip, so I recommend you always offer at least 100 pesos per person for a 2-hour tour.
You can also find more walking tours with different itineraries here
3. Take a Sightseeing Tour Around Oaxaca by Tram
For people who are not very mobile or generally have trouble walking, I want to mention something here that I have never done because I love hiking.
However, at the corner of Macedonio Alcalá and Morelos Street, a tram will take you on a sightseeing tour of downtown Oaxaca.
It is called “Tranvía el alebrije.” Please be warned that this tour is very slow. It is a large tram that must be almost full to run. It runs every 30 minutes, and the cost is about 70 pesos per person. The language is Spanish only.
4. Visit the Zocalo and the Oaxaca Cathedral
As in any colonial city, Oaxaca’s main square, zocalo, is always the perfect place to start exploring and one of the best places to visit in Oaxaca.
And why is that? Well, remember that our territory was conquered and colonized. Mexico started to be built on these squares, and all the elements of colonialism, religious syncretism, and the evolving government system began here.
In every colonial city, including Oaxaca, you will find 3 main elements:
- Ecclesiastical power in the form of a monastery or cathedral. In Oaxaca city, we have the Catedral de Nuestra Señora de la Asunción.
- Political power – the colonial buildings of the time were palatial and built to “govern” the city, and so we find what we call today “Palacio de Gobierno de Oaxaca.”
- The open square, the atriums, or “Plaza Mayor,” are the spaces where everything converged. All pre-Hispanic and colonial activities merged in these places.
One reason I enjoy sightseeing tours is that the local guides can provide interesting facts and information that is hard to find elsewhere.
For example, I remember my local tour guide explaining how when the indigenous people carved the details of the cathedral’s facade, they hid deities and symbols that were part of their own culture.
So when the indigenous people “prayed” outside the churches, in this case, the cathedral, it was a way to continue worshipping their gods freely without punishment.
We have to remember that in most cases, the Spanish conquerors chose to build each government office and religious center on top of what used to be a sacred site or a symbol of the leadership of pre-Hispanic times.
They did this to show that they were now in charge.
I highly recommend visiting the Zocalo area at least 3 times. One, bright and early. Why? For architecture and photography lovers, it’s a great opportunity to take advantage of the sunrise light and avoid the crowds.
Second, I recommend going after breakfast or in the middle of the day, which is the best time to learn about the main attractions.
Last, in the evening, around 7 pm, for people watching and cultural appreciation.
The evening is when local people go out and enjoy time with their families. You will find couples kissing on benches, friends lining up to eat an esquite, or families buying balloons for their kids.
This is a perfect time to try whatever street food or snack you can find in the Zocalo area. Also, this area is used for many activities like salsa dancing, book fairs, and more, and it all usually happens at night.
5. Walk the Whole of the Pedestrian Macedonio Alcalà From Top to Bottom and Its Streets.
This will undoubtedly take you most of the day. In a later article, I’ll cover some of the restaurants on this street in more detail, but Voces de Copal is one of my favorites, so treat yourself to lunch there.
Café brújula can be found all over Oaxaca, so it’s worth a quick stop for a coffee there as well. If you want to visit a bar, head to La Mezcalerita.
If you have a sweet tooth and want ice cream, stop by Nieves Manolo to try local craft flavors.
Macedonio Alcalá is where you get cash at the ATM, visit some museums, delight yourself in the Oaxacan art galleries, and eat, drink, and SHOP!
There are street vendors during the day, but they become more numerous as the sun goes down.
You can also find street snacks and local drinks like tejate or tamales. Also lots of sweets and pastries.
Usually, an additional artisan market is added to the existing markets during the weekends at the northern part of the street, just at the end of the Santo Domingo Museum.
6. Visit the Mercado Benito Juárez: (Market)
If you have never been to Mexico or any of its local markets but you have seen them portrayed in a movie, this market is the perfect example of what you would expect to see.
This market is the size of a total of 4 street blocks filled. Mexican street vendors, food stalls, and all kinds of trinkets are being sold everywhere, even outside of it. The whole market area is bustling, noisy, and colorful.
Its many aisles offer a combination of local art and handicrafts, traditional clothing, festive decorations, mezcal stands, fresh fruit, veggies, seeds, chocolate, spices, and every single element used in mole-making, and more.
The best way to experience the market is to ask a lot of questions and taste everything available.
When you stop at the chocolate shop, ask for a taste. Do the same at the mezcal place. Stop at the local bakery and buy a sweet.
Try the tejate drink. Buy one of the mini string cheese bags and try that too. Go crazy and try the chapulines because they are everywhere. Try it all! Take it all in. You are in Mexico!
7. Visit the 20 de Noviembre Market
The 20 de Noviembre market is next door to the Mercado Benito Juárez, and here you will mainly go to eat.
You will be able to try: tlayudas, hot chocolate, pan de yema, enchiladas de mole, mole coloradito, tamales and its main “attraction,” the meat aisle. Not a great spot for vegetarians or vegans.
There is a 100-meter (at least) meat aisle where local people buy it to take home, but at 20 de Noviembre, the butchers have decided to set up grills and a seating area right next to the raw meat.
Cecina, tasajo, and chorizo are the 3 main “cuts” in Oaxaca. You can order as much of them as you want, along with tortillas, nopalitos, lemon, and salsa to make your tacos right on the spot.
8. Have a Mezcal at La Casa Del Mezcal and Then Hop on to Other Mezcal Bars
Of course, mezcal is one of the protagonists of any trip to Oaxaca, and there are many places where you can enjoy it, but a good reason to visit is that it is one of the oldest traditional cantinas in the city, founded in 1935.
There, as soon as you walk in, it feels like you are traveling in time. Plus, you find yourself amongst locals of different ages, and they will be interested in striking up a conversation with you, for sure!
Use the opportunity to brush up on your Spanish skills! I am sure you will be fluent after 3 shots. But remember, mezcal shots are to be kissed, not to be chugged.
9. Have Dinner or Drinks in One of the City Rooftop Bars or Restaurants
Oaxaca’s skyline is gorgeous, gives us very pretty sunsets, and its evening weather is delightful, so enjoying a meal or a drink on a rooftop is a must.
I have already mentioned La Mezcalerita, and we can add Mezquite, Gozobi, Terraza los Amantes, Tierra del Sol, or Praga Coffee Bar.
10. Visit the Xochimilco District
The city center of Oaxaca is quite large, but luckily, everything is within walking distance.
You can call the markets, the main square, and the pedestrian zone the most touristy area, but the whole downtown that you should visit includes this district, which is located on the north side of it.
The Xochimilco neighborhood is a very pretty and colorful area to walk around. It is very photogenic because there is quite a bit of street art around there.
People go there to see the Xochimilco arches, the cobblestone streets, and the aqueduct, and also because Rufino Tamayo, one of the most outstanding Mexican artists, was born in this neighborhood.
11. Visit the Colorful Jalatlaco Neighborhood
This is my favorite neighborhood by far. I love to stay there when I go. This neighborhood is even more colorful than Xochimilco.
Many murals, chocolate shops, coffee places, small boutique hotels, and restaurants exist. Honestly, this is the perfect place for an Instagram photoshoot. It’s idyllic.
In 2019, Jalatlaco was included in the Time Out magazine list of the 50 coolest neighborhoods in the world.
12. Visit the Santo Domingo Temple, the Museo de las Culturas and El Jardín Etnobotánico de Oaxaca.
If you have only 2 days in Oaxaca and you are interested in learning about its rich history and the local culture, you MUST visit this place. It is large enough to take up a great part of your day, but it is worth it.
This temple has been the stage for many historical events.
During the “reforma times” (part of Mexican history that gave place to the “birth” of a liberal party against the clerical powers), it served the military in different ways, then Porfirio Diaz (Oaxacan and Mexican dictator) gave it back to the church.
At the temple, you can hire a local guide to talk about architecture, history, altarpieces, and a magnificent vault.
The museum is impressive! It consists of 14 rooms that take you through the history of the state of Oaxaca.
From prehispanic times to modern times, you can learn about the different regions, cultures, gastronomy, art, crafts, agriculture, archeology, education, and more.
Unfortunately, most of the museum’s infographics are in Spanish, so it’s a good idea to hire a guide if you do not know the language.
Finally, for nature lovers, we have the botanical garden (Jardín Etnobotánico de Oaxaca). Here you can take a guided tour of it and learn all about the state’s agave plants and other endemic flora.
This place is important because Oaxaca is not only the state with the highest number of ethnic groups, but also where we can find more plants.
There are guided tours in English and Spanish. Spanish tours are more frequent. For English, you must go on Tuesday or Thursday at 11 am, and the entrance fee is 100 pesos. There is no entrance without being part of the guided tour.
13. Visit the Museo Textil de Oaxaca (Free)
The Museo Textil de Oaxaca is one of the most underrated stops in the city — and it’s completely free. The museum showcases the extraordinary textile traditions of the Oaxacan region, with beautifully curated exhibits of handwoven pieces from different indigenous communities across the state. Crucially, explanations are available in English, making it one of the most accessible cultural experiences in Oaxaca for international visitors.
It’s smaller than you might expect — plan for about 30–45 minutes — but the quality of what’s on display is outstanding. Located on García Vigil street, it fits perfectly into a morning walk through the historic center.
14. Experience a Temazcal Ceremony
A temazcal is a traditional pre-Hispanic sweat lodge ceremony — part spiritual ritual, part physical detox — and Oaxaca is one of the best places in Mexico to experience an authentic one. The ceremony takes place in a small dome-shaped structure using steam from water poured over volcanic rocks infused with medicinal herbs. A traditional healer (curandera) guides the experience, which typically lasts 1.5–2 hours.
It’s physically intense but deeply memorable. Many boutique hotels and local guides in Oaxaca offer temazcal experiences — ask at your hotel or look for operators near the Jalatlaco neighborhood for well-regarded options.
15. Try as Many Coffee Shops as You Can
The state of Oaxaca is a coffee producer, and for that reason, the city offers plenty of coffee shops where you can indulge in espressos, cappuccinos, or even iced coffee.
I have mentioned Café Brujula because it is on the main pedestrian street and in many other locations, but it is not my first choice. It’s not bad; it’s become commercialized, like a local Starbucks, if you know what I mean.
One of the best places I know is called CAFETO and BARISTAS. Please DO NOT miss them.
You will find it on Calle de José María Pino Suárez 407- B. It is a tiny location, and having the coffee there can be tricky, but oh so worth it. My second favorite place is BOULENC. This is a great place to enjoy their bakery with a large cappuccino.
Also, Oaxaca is famous for its Cafe Pluma. It is called that because it is grown in the region of Pluma Hidalgo.
This coffee is internationally recognized as the best quality in our country, and it’s sustainably grown in the area. I must mention that this coffee is patented or certified under the “denominación de Origen,” meaning it is a protected designation.
So, look for coffee shops serving this type of coffee when you are there.
Other coffee places to check out are Café Nuevo Mundo and Café Café.
16. Eat the 7 Moles Dish
As you may have noticed, Oaxaca is a destination for foodies. Many typical dishes—or at least the original versions—can be found exclusively here. One of them is the mole.
There are 7 moles in Oaxaca, and having them in one dish is not only a meal but also an education.
The Oaxaca moles are different in color, flavor (given by the pepper used or herbs added), preparation, protein served, and other factors.
The list of the 7 moles is: Amarillito, mole negro, coloradito, verde, chichilo, manchamanteles and rojo (red).
My favorite place to have them is Los Pacos, a restaurant behind the Santo Domingo Temple. Las Quince Letras also serves that dish.
17. Take a Cooking Class
👉 Book one of the top-rated cooking classes + market tour with a local chef on this site.
We have already mentioned that Mexico’s gastronomy is also on the UNESCO list of the cultural heritage of humanity, and Oaxaca contributes in great proportion to that inscription.
It is only logical that while in Oaxaca, we become chefs and take a cooking class.
The cooking class I have taken includes drinks like coffee, hot chocolate, margaritas, mezcal shots, and more. Also, it usually includes learning to make mole, as that is the most characteristic meal of Oaxaca.
They can cater to you if you are a vegan or a vegetarian. The class is run by a family in their beautifully decorated home.
18. Check Out the Chocolate Process at EL MAYORDOMO.
In and around Oaxaca City are many places to learn about the process of making the famous local chocolate.
El Mayordomo is the biggest brand in the state, so if you have a short stay or a small budget, this is a good option because the demonstration is free.
The demonstration only happens in one place, though. You have to go to the Mayordomo store near the Benito Juárez and 20 de Noviembre market.
19. Go to Plaza de la Danza and Eat Ice Cream
So far, we have mentioned 2 very important temples of Oaxaca City, the Cathedral and the Santo Domingo Temple, but we have yet to mention the one most dear to the local people.
I am talking about the Basílica de Nuestra Señora de la Soledad Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption).
La señora de la Soledad is the patron saint of the city of Oaxaca and is, therefore, most revered by its people. It is known that many locals hold their weddings, baptisms, quinceañeras, and other ceremonies there.
So, it is very important to make a stop there to make a deeper connection with the Oaxacan culture.
But, you don’t only stop there to learn or sightsee, you go to that area for this very important reason too: Ice Cream!
Outside the basilica is a vast open area called Plaza de la Danza. Many local craft ice cream stalls have taken over a big chunk of the open space, where you can find exciting and creative flavors such as chapulin, mezcal, beso oaxaqueño, tuna, and more.
Make sure you go try them all!
20. Visit MACO Museum of Contemporary Art (check current status before visiting)
MACO is Oaxaca’s contemporary art museum, notable for its mission to bridge pre-Hispanic tradition with contemporary artistic expression.
The museum has experienced closures in recent years — check their current opening status on social media or ask at your hotel before making the trip, as information online is frequently outdated. When open, it’s located on Macedonio Alcalá Street and is a genuinely rewarding cultural stop.
21. Visit IAGO, the Institute of Graphic Arts of Oaxaca
The IAGO is a museum and library created by Francisco Toledo, a proud native of Oaxaca, a wonderful artist, and a passionate protector and promoter of the state’s culture.
Unfortunately, Francisco Toledo died only 2 years ago, but his legacy in Oaxaca is very alive.
There is a really funny anecdote about one of the things he did to protect the integrity of the city of Oaxaca.
It seems that some years ago there was an announcement of a McDonald’s to be opening right in the Zocalo area.
So what Toledo did was to call for a peaceful protest in front of the location where it would open and have people eat Tamales to express the unconformity towards having that fast food place there.
This cultural center has 5 exhibition rooms, 3 library rooms, a patio with endemic plants, a coffee shop, and a restaurant serving regional cuisine.
To go into IAGO, there is no cost, and it opens at 9:00 am.
22. Eat In One of the Delicious Eateries
As we already know, Oaxaca is not short of options for where to eat delicious food.
I promise I will be more specific on which are the best restaurants to try while there, but I will leave you with a couple of recommended places that live in my heart:
- Any of the food stalls at the 20 de Noviembre Market
- The organic market of El pochote
- For Tlayudas, go to Tlayudas el Negro.
- For fine dining, go to Los Danzantes.
- For artists and chefs, go to La Olla.
- For the best mole, go to Los Pacos.
Oaxaca Festivals
As I mentioned before, in Oaxaca, you can experience some of the most incredible festivals where the creativity of the locals is expressed at its best. Here I am listing some of the most important ones.
23. Night of the Radishes
This is a deeply rooted Christmas-time tradition in Oaxaca. It occurs on the evening of the 23rd of December and is believed to go back to 1897.
The Night of Radishes is a traditional Oaxacan festival with a popular stamp in which market gardeners and flower growers display the artistic talent of their hands with unique designs made in radish, flor inmortal (a type of flower), and totomoxtle (corn shell plant).
The exhibition lasts only a few hours, but it brings together practically all the local people in the main square who attend to admire the creativity of the participants in this contest.
It is said that this tradition started because, during Christmas times, the farmers would bring all the fresh produce to make dinner.
To make their stalls more attractive, they began to create figures with radishes, adorning them with cauliflower leaves and flowers made from baby onions. They placed radishes, lettuces, turnips, onions, etc., all in an artistic way.
The works that the gardeners and flower growers present are inspired by motifs consistent with the Christmas season, such as the birth of Jesus or the arrival of the Three Wise Men.
With the Festival of the Virgin of Solitude, the Day of the Dead, typical costumes of the State, dances, amongst others.
24. La Guelaguetza
Gastronomic, artisan, and sports exhibitions, traditional representations of the most diverse communities in the state, as well as exhibitions, concerts, and all kinds of events that share the culture and sport of Oaxaca, are some of the events to take place in July, at the Guelaguetza festival.
The origins of this event go back to both colonial and prehispanic times.
It is said that 2 traditional celebrations were held on a hill around the same dates and on the same days, first by the Zapotecs and then by the Carmelite nuns that built a church there (Iglesia del Carmen Alto).
This coincidence gave way to what is called Lunes del Cerro (Hill Monday)
The Hill Monday Festivities occur throughout July with folkloric presentations, concerts, exhibitions, and cultural and sports events.
Guelaguetza is a Zapotec word that describes the participation of people through cooperation.
So, groups of people from the 8 traditional regions of Oaxaca get together to present a sample of their cultural heritage through dances performed to the sound of music and songs that are their own, wearing the dress of their respective towns.
In the end, each group distributes to the public their “Guelaguetza” composed of objects characteristic of their respective regions.
The Guelaguetza lasts the entire month, with events everywhere. Nowadays, there is an auditorium where the main events take place at a cost, but the whole city has a constant party day and night.
One of the main “happenings” during those days was the parades called Calendars, in which music bands walk through the streets of the city center, followed by the “chinas” (women holding big baskets) and the “Marmota,” a large spherical lantern, and the “giants,” huge motley type characters controlled by the participants.
25. The Mezcal Fair
The Mezcal originates in Oaxaca, so a Mezcal fair is due. It also takes place during July and is part of the Guelaguetza festivities.
It’s a full setup of Mezcal galleries, gastronomic exhibitions, and cultural and artistic forums in an area of 8,900 square meters in the shape of a cross. It usually takes place in the Paseo Juárez at “El Llano” Park.
Best Day Trips From Oaxaca
Although the city of Oaxaca is not short of things to do and places to visit, its surroundings are brimming with incredible places, both historical sites and natural wonders.
Here I am sharing a quick overview of them, but I will share them in a separate post.
26. The Archaeological Site of Monte Albàn
This is one of the two most important archaeological sites in the area. It is only 30 minutes away from Oaxaca City.
The site is located on a low mountainous range rising above the plain in the central section of the Oaxaca Valley. This is a great day trip for history and culture lovers, but also nature lovers, as the views from the highest points are breathtaking.
27. Visit the Town and Ancient Ruins of Mitla
Monte Albán might be the most famous, but Mitla is my favorite of the two ancient ruins. Mitla is also said to be the most important site for the Zapotec culture. It is located 40 km away from the city center.
An interpretation of the past says that Mitla was a “place for rest” or a place for the dead. Mitla comes from the word “Mictlan.” One of its meanings is “the underworld.”
Mitla is a pre-Columbian archeological site that expresses the Mesoamerican belief that death was the most consequential part of life after birth. It was built as a gateway between the world of the living and the world of the dead.
We will be talking about Mitla and the rest of the day trips in more detail soon, but I want to mention a fun fact that our guide told us.
One of the interpretations made by historians and archeologists is that Mitla remains so apparently untouched because when the Spanish arrived, intending to destroy the ancient site.
They got stuck in awe of its beauty and decided to spare it and instead build their churches and other colonial buildings around.
So, Mitla becomes a really good place to observe and imagine the past events in which 2 cultures collided.
28. Visit el Tule
The best way to visit El Tule is for you to include it on your day tour, either to Hierve el Agua or Mitla, as it is on the same path.
Tule is short for the small town of Santa Maria del Tule, and its main attraction is a huge, ancient ahuehuete tree (as it’s called in Nahuatl).
The tree has a circumference of 42 meters and is around 1,400 years old (according to local people and legends surrounding the tree). Mexican people refer to this tree as “El árbol de Tule.”
One interesting and fun fact that can also be polemic is that there you will find community kids acting as guides who are “working” (for tips) to show you the different formations that can be identified on the tree trunk: a crocodile, a lion, etc.
Before, you could go into the atrium of the town’s church where the tree is.
But right now, no one is allowed to enter the area, and the tree can only be seen from the transportation or outside the gate, about 200 meters away.
29. Hierve El Agua
This is the popular petrified waterfall of Oaxaca and one of the most amazing natural wonders in Mexico that you must visit.
Hierve El Agua is 1 hour and 40 minutes from the Oaxaca city center. It is one of the best day trips in the area because it’s a perfect place to connect with nature and enjoy breathtaking views.
You can hike to the top and bottom of the waterfall, drink fruit juice, eat a tlayuda, or freshen up at the exciting swimming pool, which was made to look like it’s part of the place’s natural geography.
Important note on access to Hierve el Agua
Hierve El Agua belongs to the local community next to it, and it has experienced ongoing access issues due to disputes between local communities and the Mexican government. The situation changes frequently — the site can be open one week and restricted the next. The safest and most reliable way to visit is to book a guided day tour from Oaxaca City, as reputable local operators stay on top of access conditions and can adjust the itinerary as needed. Do not drive there independently without checking current conditions first.
30. Mezcal Tasting at Don Agave
Don Agave is a mezcal house that produces several mezcal brands of multiple agave plants.
They produce the mezcal the artisanal way, and they are located around 30 minutes away from Oaxaca City.
Don Agave offers a mezcal tour to learn about its making from the beginning, and they have you participate in a tasting right after.
The one I experienced (several times) included as many as 8 to 10 different types and 5 or 6 mezcal cream flavors. They are fun!
You can also have lunch there. They have a very good Oaxacan food restaurant.
31. Arts and Crafts Workshops, Visits and Demonstrations
Another of the top things to do on a day trip to the surrounding area of Oaxaca is to go to arts and crafts workshops to demonstrate the making processes and to shop, of course!
3 of the most sought-after workshops are:
- The Alebrijes of San Martín Tilcajete village.
- The Barro Negro of San Bartolo Coyotepec
- The wool and cotton carpets of Teotitlán del Valle
All 3 villages are a short drive from the city center.
32. Visit Matatlan — The World Mezcal Capital
While you can taste mezcal at dozens of bars in Oaxaca city, the most immersive mezcal experience involves making the 45-minute drive to Santiago Matatlan, officially recognized as the mezcal capital of the world. This small town is home to dozens of family-run distilleries (palenques) where mezcal is still produced using traditional artisanal methods passed down through generations — roasting the agave hearts in underground pits, crushing them with a stone wheel pulled by a horse, and fermenting in wooden vats.
Several palenques offer free or very affordable tours with generous tastings of multiple mezcal varieties and mezcal crema flavors. Many guided day tours from Oaxaca that visit Mitla or Hierve el Agua also include a stop in Matatlan — ask when booking. If you go independently, Don Agave is a well-known producer about 30 minutes from the city that offers excellent tours and tastings, plus a good Oaxacan restaurant on site.
Where to Stay in Oaxaca City Mexico
Where to Stay in Oaxaca City
I always recommend staying in or very close to the historic center, ideally in the Jalatlaco or Xochimilco neighborhoods, which put you within walking distance of everything while offering a quieter, more residential atmosphere than the main tourist streets.
Luxury
Hotel Casántica — A beautiful boutique property in the heart of the historic center with elegant colonial decor, a rooftop terrace, and exceptional service. One of the finest hotels in the city. 👉 Check rates on Booking.com
Casa 1800 Oaxaca Boutique hotel — One of Oaxaca’s most celebrated boutique hotels, with a rooftop pool, stunning colonial architecture, and one of the best restaurants in the city. A splurge worth every peso. 👉 Check rates on Booking.com
Mid-range
Oaxaca Real— Excellent value, located parallel to the Macedonio Alcalá pedestrian street. Clean, comfortable, and perfectly positioned for exploring the city on foot. 👉 Check rates on Booking.com
Parador del Dominico — Charming property very close to the Santo Domingo Temple. Great location, good breakfast, friendly staff. 👉 Check rates on Booking.com
Hotel Magda — A simple, well-priced hotel in the beautiful Jalatlaco neighborhood — my favorite area to stay. Quiet streets, colorful murals on every corner, and 10 minutes’ walk to the Zócalo. 👉 Check rates on Booking.com
Budget
Hostal de las Américas— Central, clean, and affordable. A solid budget option for those spending most of their time exploring the city rather than the hotel. 👉 Check rates on Booking.com
Oaxaca City, Mexico: Frequently Asked Questions
How Many Days Do You Need in Oaxaca?
If you’re moving fast through Mexico, 2 nights and 3 days is enough to explore the city and do a few day trips.
If you’ve got a bit more time and money but not a full week, aim for 4 nights and 5 days.
If you’re coming to Oaxaca as your main destination, and you can swing it, a full week or even 10 days is ideal.
Is Oaxaca Safe Right Now?
Yes, Oaxaca is safe right now—but you need to use common sense.
Here are some tips to stay safe:
- Do most things during daylight.
- Don’t flash money or valuables.
- Use the hotel safe or find a good hiding spot for your things.
- Avoid wearing flashy jewelry or carrying lots of gadgets in busy areas like markets or events.
- Don’t get too drunk or hang out with sketchy people.
- Don’t use drugs.
- Never leave your stuff unattended.
- Keep your bags in front of you.
- Don’t put valuables in your pockets.
- Stay away from protests or political demonstrations.
This advice goes for everyone—men, women, and all travelers.
More info: Safety in Mexico
What 3 Things Is the State of Oaxaca Known For?
Oaxaca is known for its amazing food, the Day of the Dead celebrations, and its arts and crafts.
What Food Is Oaxaca, Mexico, Famous For?
The most popular foods are mole, chapulines (roasted grasshoppers), tlayudas, and tasajo (thin grilled beef).
How to Get from Puebla to Oaxaca
Getting from Puebla to Oaxaca is easy. ADO buses take about 6 hours, and you can ride during the day or at night.
You can also rent a car if you prefer to drive.
More details here: Puebla to Oaxaca Guide
When is the best time to visit Oaxaca?
The best time to visit Oaxaca is during the dry season from November through April. November is particularly special for Día de los Muertos, July for the Guelaguetza Festival, and December 23rd for the Night of the Radishes. If you want fewer crowds and lower prices, the rainy season (May–October) offers good value — mornings are usually clear even if afternoons bring showers.
Is there Uber in Oaxaca?
No. Uber does not operate in Oaxaca. The best rideshare alternative is DiDi, which is widely used by locals and visitors alike. Taxis are also plentiful and generally reliable — always confirm the fare before getting in.
Is tap water safe to drink in Oaxaca?
No. Do not drink tap water in Oaxaca. Stick to bottled water and reliable filtered sources. Most hotels and restaurants provide safe drinking water — when in doubt, ask.
How do I get from Mexico City to Oaxaca?
You can fly from Mexico City to Oaxaca in about 1 hour — there are multiple daily flights. By ADO bus, the journey takes approximately 7 hours and is very comfortable. Driving takes 6–7 hours via the MEX-135D toll road.
What altitude is Oaxaca?
Oaxaca sits at 1,555 meters (5,102 feet) above sea level. If you’re coming from a coastal destination or sea level, take it easy on your first day, drink plenty of water, and avoid heavy exercise until you’ve acclimatized. Altitude sickness is uncommon at this elevation, but possible.
Oaxaca City: Final Thoughts
Oaxaca is one of those rare destinations that gets under your skin and stays there. Whether it’s your first visit or your fifth, the city has a way of revealing something new every time, a hidden café down a cobblestone street, a mezcal you’ve never tried before, a festival that fills the Zócalo with color and music and life.
Of all the places I’ve explored in Mexico, Oaxaca City remains my absolute favorite. I hope this guide helps you make the most of every day you spend there.
If you have any questions about planning your trip to Oaxaca, drop them in the comments below — I’m happy to help. And if you’re still planning the wider Mexico leg of your trip, check out some of the guides below for more inspiration.
Before You Go…
You might also find these helpful:
- How Much Cash to Bring to Mexico
- Renting a Car in Mexico
- 35 Mexico Travel Tips You Need to Read
- Best Travel Insurance for Mexico
- Why Buy a Mexican SIM Card
