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

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

The Best Hotels and Resorts

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

Stephanie Pollak/Travel + Leisure

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

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

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

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

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

Hotel Casa Santo Origen

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

Book Now: Hotels.com | Expedia | Trip Advisor

Quinta Real Oaxaca

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

Casa Silencio

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

Downtown Oaxaca

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

Hierve el Agua

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

Susmita Baral/Travel + Leisure

Monte Albán

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

Mezcal Experiences

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

Oaxacan Beaches

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

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

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

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

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

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

Mercado 20 de Noviembre

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

Cesar Rodriguez/Bloomberg via Getty Images

Restaurante Casa Oaxaca

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

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

El Lechoncito de Oro

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

Bar La Giralda

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

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

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

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

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

Gabriel Perez/Getty Images

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

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

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

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

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How to Spend 5 Days in Oaxaca

Oaxaca is one of my favorite cities. From the moment I first visited, I knew this was a place I would return to again and again and again. I’ve been half a dozen times now, even leading tours around the city .

Located in southwestern Mexico in a valley surrounded by craggy mountains, Oaxaca has been inhabited for thousands of years by indigenous Zapotec and Mixtec peoples. Today, it’s a center for food, mezcal production, and artisan textiles and pottery, and features a rich history, owing to places like Monte Albán and Mitla.

Take all that history, food, and drink, and package it in a place brimming with colorful buildings, scenic rooftop restaurants and bars, unique street art, and picturesque parks, and it’s no surprise so many people — myself included — love Oaxaca .

Since I’ve visited this city a lot, to help you plan your trip, I put together this five-day Oaxaca itinerary. It covers all the highlights, my favorite things to see and do, and some off-the-beaten-path activities too!

Table of Contents

Oaxaca Itinerary: Day 1

Oaxaca itinerary: day 2, oaxaca itinerary: day 3, oaxaca itinerary: day 4, oaxaca itinerary: day 5.

My favorite company here is Oaxaca Free Walking Tour . They offer free daily tours that show you the hidden gems and what life is like for residents. I can’t recommend them enough if it’s your first time here. Just make sure to tip your guide at the end!

See the Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzmán While in downtown Oaxaca, don’t miss stopping in this complex, which features a 17th-century Baroque Roman Catholic church, a cultural museum, and a botanical garden. Originally used as a Dominican church and monastery, this photogenic site was later used as a barracks and military building during Mexico’s revolution (1910–1920) all the way into the 1990s.

While here, see the Museo de las Culturas, which is home to all kinds of religious and pre-Columbian artifacts. The “Treasures of Monte Albán” exhibition showcases over 400 relics from a Mixtec tomb that is one of the most important burial sites in Mesoamerica, including a skull covered in turquoise, carved bone objects, weaving tools, and jewelry made of gold and jade. It is by far one of the best things to do in town. Expect to spend a couple of hours in the entire complex.

C. Macedonio Alcalá S/N. The Museo de las Culturas is open Tuesday-Friday 10am-3pm. Admission to the church is free, while the museum is 85 MXN.

Wander the city and admire the street art Oaxaca has a wealth of street art, ranging from political pieces commenting on social issues to murals focused on indigenous culture and history. The areas of Xochilmilco and Jalatlaco are two of the best for murals. You can also join a street art bike tour offered by Coyote Aventuras (850 MXN) for an even more in-depth look.

Try a street-stall hamburguesa After a busy day of exploring, feast on an hamburguesa for dinner. It’s a burger topped with a hot dog, sliced cheese, Oaxaca cheese, ham, pineapple, lettuce, tomato, and jalapeño. I know it’s weird to include this but trust me, you’ll want one. And it’s not made for Gringos and tourists either. Locals devour these. It started here. You’ll see stalls all over town but Cangreburguer near Santo Domingo sells one of the best.

20 de Noviembre 512. Open daily 7am-9pm. Admission is free.

Stroll through the Botanical Garden Located in the former convent in the aforementioned Santo Domingo de Guzmán complex, the Jardín Etnobotánico de Oaxaca was founded in 1994 and opened to the public in 1999. Spanning six acres, it features plants from across the state (many of which have been transplanted here, since the garden is so young). In addition to the flowers, trees, and cacti that dot the garden, there are also sculptures and works of art.

Admission is by guided tour only and there is only one English tour per day (offered at 11am), which has only 25 spots and fills up quickly so be sure to arrive early to grab your spot.

Reforma Sur, Ruta Independencia. Open Monday-Saturday 10am-3:30pm. Admission is by guided tour only. Admission (including the tour) is 50 MXN for Spanish tours and 100 MXN for English ones.

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.

Additionally, you can pop into one of the many mezcalerías in town to taste and learn more about the region’s favorite spirit. My personal favorites are Los Amantes Mezcalería, Mezcalogia, Tres Hermanas, Mezcalería In Situ, and Comere.

Start your visit by stopping in at the museum, as it’ll give you context, especially if you’re not on a guided tour . Then, wander the sprawling site at your leisure, climbing ancient Zapotec pyramids and admiring the tombs, terraces, and canals that span several miles. The site takes about 2-3 hours to visit, depending on your pace. Bring a hat and sunscreen, as there isn’t much shade.

Ignacio Bernal S/N, San Pedro Ixtlahuaca. Open daily 10am-4pm. Admission is 90 MXN.

Take a food tour Upon returning to the city, explore the culinary scene with a guided food tour. Oaxaca is considered one of the most important hubs for gastronomy in Mexico. My favorite tour company is Oaxaca Eats , which runs several tours, most of which last around four hours. You’ll get to sample over 20 dishes and learn a ton about the food and its history. It’s one of the oldest food tour companies in town and run by a lovely local woman with a passion for food.

Tour prices vary but expect to spend 2,000 MXN.

In addition to admiring the calcified cliffs, there are also hikes in the area, which is a good way to get away from the crowds.

Open daily 7am-6:30pm. Admission is 50 MXN.

Explore Mitla Another historic site that I think is a must-see, this pre-Columbian UNESCO World Heritage Site was one of the main religious and spiritual hubs for the indigenous Zapotec and Mixtec people. Used as a sacred burial ground and believed to be a gateway between the realms of the living and the dead, Mitla was built in 850 CE but was mostly destroyed by the Spanish in the mid-16th century. However, some buildings were left intact (some of which date as far back as 400 CE), which you can explore on your visit to the archaeological site, which stands out from other Mesoamerican ruins due to the mosaics covering the tombs and walls. It’s another site I always take people to see when I guide them around the city.

Open Tuesday-Saturday 10am-4pm, Sunday 10am-2pm. Admission is 90 MXN while skip-the-line tickets are 160 MXN.

Visit Oaxaca’s artisan towns Scattered throughout the state of Oaxaca are small folk-art villages, where you can meet artisans, see how traditional goods are made, and bring back a souvenir of your travels if you choose. Each village specializes in a different craft: Teotitlán del Valle is known for its textiles, San Bartolo Coyotepec for black pottery, and San Martín Tilcajete and San Antonio Arrazola for (brightly colored fantastical animal sculptures), to name just a few.

Experience a temazcal On your last evening in Oaxaca, wind down at a temazcal (meaning “house of heat”), 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.

Wander the Sunday market If you’re in town on a Sunday, be sure to visit Mercado Tlacolula, one of the most popular markets in the region. It’s 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 of town, so you’ll need to drive there or take the bus, but it’s absolutely worth the journey. Thousands of people come here, and there’s tons of amazing food to try. Don’t skip the barbacoa (stewed meat) and chicharrón (fried pork rinds)!

Admire the world’s widest tree Just 10 kilometers (6 miles) from the center of Oaxaca, in the humble town of Santa María del Tule, is the world’s widest tree. Estimated to be 1,500-3,000 years old, this Montezuma cypress (Mexico’s national tree) has a diameter of about 14 meters (46 feet) and is a magnificent sight to behold.

Oaxaca quickly becomes a favorite of everyone who visits and a lot of people ending up coming back over and over again. There’s a lot to see and do here. This itinerary is just a general outline as there are tons of little museums, churches, experiences, and markets you can find on your own.

Use this itinerary to see the highlights and fill in the rest of your time with some wandering!

Book Your Trip to Mexico: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner . It is my favorite search engine because it searches websites and airlines around the globe, so you always know no stone is left unturned!

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as it has the largest inventory. If you want to stay elsewhere, use Booking.com , as it consistently returns the cheapest rates for guesthouses and hotels. Three of my favorite places to stay are:

• Hostel Central
• El Cielo Oaxaca
• Iguana Hostel Oaxaca

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancelations. 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. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• SafetyWing (best for everyone)
• Insure My Trip (for those 70 and over)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Looking for the best companies to save money with? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel! I list all the ones I use!

Want More Information on Mexico? Be sure to visit our robust destination guide on Mexico for even more planning tips!

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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22 Best Things To Do in Oaxaca – Your Complete Guide [2022]

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. At no cost to you, I might earn a small commission if you make a purchase through the links in this article.

Imagine a city with colorful architecture, the most delicious food you’ve ever tried, vibrant artisan markets, and friendly locals.

Welcome to Oaxaca, the hub of Mexico’s culture and gastronomy, where centuries-old traditions are still alive and the smell of freshly made mole is in the air.

Some travelers say you don’t know Mexico until you visit Oaxaca, and I couldn’t agree more. But Oaxaca is more than just a quick stopover: It demands time and effort because the whole state of Oaxaca offers culture and stunning landscapes ranging from arid areas to mountains and gorgeous beaches.

This guide will help you make sure you don’t miss some of the best things to do in Oaxaca and get the best cultural experience while visiting this city.

Where is Oaxaca located?

Pronounced ( Wah-ah-kah ) Oaxaca’s full name is Oaxaca De Juarez , but many travelers and locals call it shortly Oaxaca. The city is located in the namesake state of Oaxaca in Southern Mexico. It borders the state of Chiapas to the south, Veracruz to the east, and the states of Puebla and Guerrero to the north.

Best Things To Do In Oaxaca

1. Join a free guided tour of Oaxaca

You just arrived in Oaxaca need to get your bearings in the new city. There’s no better way to do it than by joining a free walking tour of Oaxaca that takes place two times per day. Local guides have excellent knowledge of the city and can answer any of your questions. Make sure to leave your gratuity at the end of the tour to show some appreciation for their work.

Daily tours of Oaxaca depart at 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. and last about two hours. Although this is a free activity, make sure to bring some cash tips for your tour guide who works so hard to show you this incredible city.

2. Taste Mezcal

If there’s one thing you can’t miss while visiting Oaxaca is trying Mezcal , a signature drink that plays an important role in the culture of this state. Mezcal is a distilled drink created from agave plants that grow in this part of Mexico and many local mezcaleros (people who produce this drink for sale), take great pride in it.

You can find Mezcal in many stores and restaurants in Oaxaca, however, if you want to get a glimpse into the process of making Mezcal and sample freshly made drink (or multiple versions of it), taking a mezcal tour in Oaxaca is a must .

PRO TIP: Learn about other must-have experience in Mexico here!

3. Marvel at Templo De Santo Domingo De Guzman

This baroque cathedral anchors a large plaza and is hard to miss even if you are visiting Oaxaca for a short time. Surrounded by huge agave plants, Temple De Santo Domingo de Guzman is one of the most iconic churches in Mexico thanks to its opulent interior decorations with more than 60,000 sheets of gold leaf and ornate ceilings.

Throughout its history, this temple had been used as a church and convent before being transformed into the military barracks in the 19th and 20th centuries. Whether you want to people-watch or admire Oaxaca’s cultural treasures, spend some time near Temple De Santo Domingo.

4. Walk through Ethnobotanical Garden

Adjacent to the temple De Santo Domingo, Oaxaca Ethnobotanical Garden (Jardin Etnobotanico de Oaxaca) is hands down one of the best things to do in Oaxaca. Designed by artist Francisco Toledo to showcase Oaxaca’s history through its flora, this garden is home to many plants that are arranged in cultural and geographical groups.

Oaxaca is one of the most biodiverse parts of Mexico thanks to its many climates ranging from colder ones in the mountains to arid inland and humid along the coast.

You can visit Oaxaca Ethnobotanical Garden only with a guided tour , which has to be purchased on the spot, so make sure to check the schedule ahead of your visit. Tours in Spanish are offered three times a day at 10 a.m., 12 p.m., and 5 p.m. and tours in English are offered at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday.

Arrive early as each tour has a limited number of spots and they fill up quickly. Payments are accepted only in cash.

5. Explore the ruins of Monte Alban

Mexico might be famous for its Mayan ruins , but that’s not the only kind of ruins in this country. Before the arrival of Spanish conquistadors, the country was inhabited by many indigenous groups, including Zapotecs, Mixtecs, and Aztecs that still live in many southern parts of the country, including Oaxaca.

Monte Alban, the archaeological site about 25 minutes away from Oaxaca City was the center of the Zapotec empire from about 500 B.C.E. to 700 C.E.

The site is known as one of the most studied archeological areas in the Americas and boasts pyramids, underground passages, over 170 tombs, and sprawling terraces along the huge plaza. One of the most interesting features of Monte Alban is Los Danzantes , big stone slabs with carvings that are believed to portray war captives.

The site also offers incredible panoramic views thanks to its location 1,200 feet above the Oaxaca Valley. Due to the higher elevation, it often has slightly cooler temperatures and more wind than Oaxaca City, so grab your jacket.

Entrance fee to Monte Alban is 75 Pesos and has to be paid in cash.

How to get to Monte Alban from Oaxaca

The easiest way to visit Monte Alban is by purchasing an organized tour from Oaxaca. A local guide will show you the highlights of Monte Alban and tell you the history of this ancient city. Tours to Monte Alban from Oaxaca run daily and you can purchase them in many tours agencies in Oaxaca or online through Get Your Guide .

Taking a colectivo to Monte Alban

If you don’t want a guided tour of Monte Alban and would like to visit this archaeological area on your own, book a colectivo (a small shared van) with Lescas Tours , a local company that has an office in Zocalo.

I paid 100 Mexican Pesos for a round trip to Monte Alban with fewer Tours. You get dropped off in a parking lot outside of Monte Alban and picked up a few hours later (make sure to specify your pick-up time though).

PRO TIP: Taking these tours becomes much easier if you can speak Spanish. Check out more Mexico travel tips that will help you travel around the country safely and avoid some of the most common mistakes.

Take a day trip from Oaxaca

It could take you a couple of days to explore Oaxaca City, but there’s so much more to this place. You don’t have to stay in the city to enjoy some of the best things to do in Oaxaca, because there are many natural and cultural places within 2 hours of driving.

6. Hiereve El Agua

Located about 90 minutes from Oaxaca by car, this site boasts two petrified waterfalls that originated as a result of calcium-rich springs flowing down the cliffs. Translated as boiled water from Spanish, Hierve El Agua sits against the backdrop of stunning blue-green mountains and has numerous hiking trails. Consider guided tour of Hierve El Agua if you don’t have a car.

7. Teotitlan Del Valle

Visiting local artisan villages is one of the best things to do in Oaxaca because there you will see how local artisans create hand-woven rugs and other textiles from scratch. Teotitlan del Valle is known as a hub of Zapotec weaving designs and also has a nice artisan market where you can buy locally made goods. 

An archaeological site about 1 hour away from Oaxaca, Mitla was once an important cultural center of Zapotecs. As with other day trips from Oaxaca, you can take a guided tour of Mitla or catch a bus from the Second Class Bus Station in Oaxaca for about 40 Pesos. 

Visiting Mitla on a day trip is one of the best things to do in Oaxaca if you want to learn the Zapotec culture.

PRO TIP: Some tours make stops at all three sites or include stops in Hierve El Agua, traditional weaving villages, and a local Mezcaleria where you can sample the famous Oaxaca drink. If time is short, consider one of these tours to maximize your time and hit several spots in one day.

9. Shop Oaxaca markets

If you like handcraft clothing, arts and crafts, Oaxaca is your place! This state has an incredible artisan scene with many local artisans making colorful dresses, shoes, and all sorts of accessories. If you are visiting Oaxaca for the first time, visit at least one artisan market

Best Oaxaca markets

• Mercado Benito Juarez – a typical Oaxaca market where you can find a mix of artisan arts and crafts, fresh produce, and food
• Mercado De Artesanias – best artisan market in Oaxaca with souvenirs, textiles, and handcraft goods
• Mercado 20 de Noviembre – a great market with a wide variety of inexpensive food 

10. Buy alebrijes

When you visit Oaxaca’s artisan markets, you will notice many artisans selling brightly colored figurines of animals and imaginary creatures such as dragons and unicorns. These pieces of art are called Alebrijes and have horns, wings, antlers – sometimes all at once!

Alebrijes are a unique concept of Mexican folk art.

Alebrijes originated after Mexican artist Pedro Linares saw mythical creatures in his dream while he was ill and began recreating them in paper-mâché after he recovered. The trend got popular and was adopted in several parts of Mexico, most notably in Oaxaca where local master Manuel Jimenez used copal trees to make the first Oaxaca alebrijes.

11. Take a break in Oaxaca’s Zocalo

The heart of Oaxaca, Zocalo is the city’s main square that sits between the Palacio de Gobierno and Catedral De Oaxaca . It’s a popular place for locals and visitors who come here to relax and enjoy the many restaurants and artisan markets in the area.

It’s also where many events take place throughout the year, such as the ceremonies during Mexico’s Day of Independence which is marked on September 16, and more esoteric La Noche De Rabanos that occurs on December 23 and involves local people carving radishes into quirky art displays.

12. Check out Oaxaca’s pedestrian-only street

Connecting Zocalo and the Templo de Santo Domingo is Calle Alcala ( or Calle Macedonio Alcala ), a pedestrian-only street surrounded by colonial buildings that house restaurants, bars, galleries, and, stores. Since traffic in Oaxaca has gotten worse in recent years, Calle Alcala is a great way to navigate the city without losing much time.

13. Visit Plaza De La Danza

A few blocks from Zocalo you will find a large square heralded by the Ex-Convento de San Jose. The square is often used for music and art performances. Laid out with the volcanic stone, this plaza is less famous than other popular places to visit in Oaxaca, but if you happen to pass by, stop for a couple of moments to appreciate it.

If you want to try more Oaxaca delicacies, head to the southern end of the plaza where you can try signature Oaxaca sorbet (or nieve de Oaxaca) made from red prickly pear.

14. Celebrate Day of The Dead in Oaxaca

Olan your Oaxaca trip for late October, or early November to witness the famous Die De Los Muertos (Day of The Dead). Oaxaca puts on some of the most colorful celebrations in entire Mexico, and being part of this huge and important festival is nothing short of magical.

The Day of the Dead is a blend of Mesoamerican rituals and Spanish culture and has a very special place in Mexican culture.

Although the name of this holiday sounds rather somber, the entire event has a cheerful spirit to it: Mexican people view death differently, and before and during the event people in Oaxaca (and all over the country) pay respects to their loved ones who passed away be creating colorful altars, bringing offerings and food to cemeteries and organizing colorful parades.

15. And don’t forget about Guelaguetza Festival!

Enjoying local festivals is one of the best things to do in Oaxaca since the state has so many of them. If you didn’t make it to the Day of the Dead, you can also try Guelaguetza , Oaxaca’s folk festival that takes place on two consecutive Mondays in July. The exact dates of the event vary every year, so make sure to check the local calendar.

The largest folk festival in the Americas, Guelaguetza is the event when people from all over Oaxaca come to celebrate their delicious food, colorful textiles, ethnic dances, and colorful costumes. Although Guelaguetza is less famous than Dia De Los Muertos , it’s just as impressive, as you get to see the true Oaxaca spirit through this colorful celebration.

16. Try Oaxaca mole

Even if you have never been to Oaxaca, you probably heard about the mole, a signature sauce that is made from a mix of ingredients including seeds, dried fruits, tomatoes, chili, and sometimes, even chocolate! Mole is often found in empanadas and is also served alongside many dishes including meat and vegetables.

Trying mole is one of the best things to do in Oaxaca for foodies!

While the state of Puebla takes pride in inventing mole, Oaxaca is famous for having the highest variety of mole sauces. You can find seven of them here with the most famous one being Mole Poblano, that’s why trying it is one of those things to do in Oaxaca that you cannot miss!

There are many different types of mole in Oaxaca and most restaurants in the city serve at least a few types of this famous sauce.

Other famous Oaxaca foods that you should try

• Tlayudas – The most famous street food in Oaxaca, Tlayudas are huge tortillas that are grilled on an open flame and filled with your choice of stuffing. Tlayudas can be either open like tortas or folded similar to quesadillas. You can find them anywhere you go in Oaxaca and shouldn’t miss a chance to try this Oaxaca staple.
• Memelas – Memelas are which grilled tortillas topped with bean paste and an assortment of cheese and meat. Memelas are staples of Oaxaca cuisine and can be eaten at any time of the day!
• Tamales – Tamales are another Oaxaca staple made with cornmeal dough that comes with a variety of fillings. If you are a vegan the good news, is that tamales are one of the most vegan-friendly foods in Oaxaca as they are often filled with veggies, potatoes, and other non-animal ingredients.

17. Sip some hot chocolate

Aside from mole and other gastronomic staples, Oaxaca also produces cocoa beans. This means that it’s a good place to try delicious hot chocolate that are often served in cute clay cups. There are many cafes in Oaxaca where you can grab a cup of hot chocolate, and here are some of my favorite places:

• Oaxaca En Una Taza – located near Templo de Santo Domingo, this cute coffee shop has hot chocolate and delicious pastries. 
• Cafe Brujula – Another local cafe where you can try signature Oaxaca hot chocolate, tea, chai, and coffee. 

18. Explore Oaxaca’s street art

Oaxaca has tons and tons of colorful street murals. Exploring the colorful streets of Oaxaca where you can find many cool murals is one of the best free things to do in Oaxaca!

The murals in Oaxaca are fun and colorful, and many of them also have specific messing with topics such as indigenous rights and political issues. Oaxaca street art often has deep meaning to it, and I could go on for a while about it, but the best way to see it for yourself is to wander the streets of Oaxaca Centro.

19. Enjoy colorful barrios Jalatlaco y Xochimilco

Jalatlaco and Xochimilco are perfect if you want to get away from the touristy areas of Oaxaca and get a better feel of this city. Despite its cheerful ambiance with all the murals and bright-colored buildings, Jalatlaco has managed to fly under the tourist radar.

Located just 10 minutes away from the center of Oaxaca, Jalatlaco has more of a local flair to it. While this area doesn’t offer much in terms of the best things to do in Oaxaca, its charm is in narrow cobblestoned streets lined with colorful homes. In Jalatlaco, you can find the Temple of San Matias Jalatlaco , which is believed to date to the 17th century and has a beautiful facade.

Xochimilco is another best-kept secret of Oaxaca that is home to many local artisans, and colorful buildings. Spend some time wandering the streets of Xochimilco to get a taste of authentic Oaxaca.

20. Visit museums of Oaxaca

One of the most cultural cities in Mexico, Oaxaca boasts several museums. Make sure to spare at least half a day to visit some of the Oaxaca museums and appreciate the local art scene

• Museo Textil de Oaxaca – a great museum if you want to learn about Oaxaca’s famous textiles. Entrance is free
• Rufino Tamayo Museum – one of the most interesting museums in Oaxaca with tons of Pre-Columbian artifacts. Entrance fee is 90 Pesos
• Museo De Las Culturas (Museum of Cultures) – An interesting museum that traces the history of Oaxaca from Pre-columbian days to the modern-day. The museum boasts an impressive array of artifacts many of which date to the Pre-hispanic period. Entrance fee is 70 pesos. From this museum, you can also get great views of the Ethnobotanical Garden and the Santo Domingo Church.

21. Eat at best Oaxaca restaurants

As the foodie capital of Mexico, there are many good restaurants in Oaxaca . From small unpretentious cafes tucked into Oaxaca streets that are perfect for solo travelers to famous restaurants where top chefs serve the most elaborate Oaxaca dishes, there are many places in Oaxaca where you can grab a bite.

As a vegan traveler, I never found it difficult to find food in Oaxaca, since so many Mexican dishes, including the famous mole in Oaxaca, can be “veganzied” upon request.

Best vegan restaurants in Oaxaca

• Hierba Dulce – if you are a vegan traveler wanting to try mole and other Oaxacan dishes that are not always vegan, head to Hierba Dulce. This beautiful restaurant in the city center has an entirely plant-based menu and super friendly staff.
• Trigo Verde – a casual eatery, Trigo Verde is one of the best restaurants in Oaxaca for a hungry vegan with great comfort food options.
• La Campane – a restaurant with an Italian menu with a designated vegan and vegetarian section. Located near Templo de Santo Domingo, it’s a great spot if you want to grab a bite after a few hours of sightseeing
• Etnofood – Fully vegan restaurant that offers Oaxaca dishes and also offers cooking classes. Must visit while in Oaxaca!
• Los Muchitos – Located a bit away from Oaxaca Center, Los Muchitos has a full vegan menu with tacos, burgers, and other popular comfort food.

Best casual restaurants in Oaxaca

• Restaurante Coronita – If you want to try different types of Oaxaca mole in a casual atmosphere, there’s no better place than Restaurants Coronita, an Oaxaca landmark that has been around since 1948.
• Boulenc – one of the most popular eaters in Oaxaca, Boulenc specializes in pastries, bread, and pizzas. This is one of the best casual restaurants in Oaxaca if you are looking for a relaxed atmosphere in a cozy space
• Casa Taviche – a showcase of the best Mexican food, Casa Taviche offers a taste of the menu regions of Mexico. Aside from Oaxaca food, you can also find some Yucatec dishes such as Cochinita pibil as well as several others. It also has options for plant-based eaters.

Best fine dining restaurants in Oaxaca

• Restaurante Casa Oaxaca – one of the most popular restaurants in Oaxaca, this place offers a taste of Oaxaca hospitality and an assortment of traditional Oaxaca dishes from different regions of Oaxaca.
• Origen – a restaurant that has an award-winning chef, a home-like atmosphere, and specialty dishes, Origen is one of the most popular restaurants among Oaxaca’s foodies as it offers modern interpretations of many traditional Oaxaca foods.
• Catedral Restaurant – located just a block away from Zocalo, this well-established fine dining restaurant has a good Avery of local flavors.

22. Explore Oaxaca neighborhoods

Exploring the city on foot is one of the best things to do in Oaxaca and is a perfect way to get to know the area. Spend a couple of hours wandering the streets of Oaxaca during your trip.

Oaxaca Centro

Oaxaca Centro is the heart of the city, and the most popular area to stay among many tourists who travel to Oaxaca. Booking a hotel in Centro means you will be a short distance away from some of the best things to do in Oaxaca.

Some of the most popular hotels in Oaxaca Centro are Hotel Escondido and Pug Seal Oaxaca , a colorful, super artsy property steps away from major attractions in Oaxaca.

Santo Domingo

Santo Domingo is the northern part of Oaxaca Centro that boasts beautiful cobblestone streets and historic buildings. It’s home to the best things to do in Oaxaca including El Templo de Santo Domingo , and nearby ethnobotanical garden, and a handful of museums. It’s also where you will find some of the best and restaurants in Oaxaca.

Hotel La Casona De Tita is one of the bets hotels in Santo Domingo Oaxaca that is popular among couples and solo travelers. Casa Carmen Reforma is another popular hotel in the area that is considered one of the best boutique hotels in Oaxaca.

This newer neighborhood located on a highway across from Santo Domingo lacks the Oaxaca feel and doesn’t offer any historic buildings or pretty sights, but it offers more affordable accommodations compared to Oaxaca Centro and Santo Domingo. You can get to Oaxaca Centro from here by taxi or a 20-minute walk.

Casa Los Cantaros is a cozy boutique hotel in the heart of La Reforma where you can relax after a day of exploring Oaxaca.

A hidden gem of Oaxaca, Jalatlaco is a colorful barrio about 10 minutes away from the city center. Its cobblestoned streets boast colorful murals, cozy cafes, and coffee shops. If want to escape the busy streets of Oaxaca and stay in a more quiet area with local flair, consider booking one of the hotels in Jalatlaco.

Hotel City Centro Oaxaca is a sustainable property 5 minutes away by walking from Jalatlaco. It’s also one of the most beautiful, highly rated hotels in Oaxaca.

This neighborhood offers an authentic taste of Oaxaca thanks to the many artisans who live in work here. It’s located north of the city center just across the highway. While there’s no big artisan market, it’s not uncommon to see individual vendors selling their arts and crafts while walking the streets of Xochimilco.

El Callejon Boutique Hotel is a beautiful place about 0.2 miles away from Xochimilco

More cool things to do in Oaxaca

24. Catch some sun on Oaxaca beaches

There’s nothing like the Oaxaca coastline! After spending a couple of days in this colorful city, catch a bus to Oaxaca Coast. Whether you want to enjoy some yoga in rustic Mazunte , explore some of the best beaches in Mexico in Bahias de Huatulco , or grab a surfboard and catch the wave in Puerto Escondido , Oaxaca Coast has it all!

Unlike some of the most popular destinations in Mexico’s Caribbean, Oaxaca beaches are still relatively “undiscovered” and the lack of mass tourism is one of the biggest draws here. That’s why so many people who come to Oaxaca Coast for a few days end up staying here much longer.

PRO TIP: Read my guide about the best Oaxaca beaches to plan your trip here. 

25. Visit Oaxaca Pueblos Magicos

If you have traveled around Mexico, you might have heard about Pueblos Magicos , or “magic towns” that have been given their special status by the Mexican government. 

Oaxaca has several pueblos mágicos: Mazunte , a charming rustic town on the coast, Santa Catrina Juquila , one of the most important religious destinations in Mexico; San Pablo De Mitla , home to the well-known ruins and Huautla De Jimenez , a scenic destination that is surrounded by mountains, rivers, and waterfalls.

Best things to do in Oaxaca: FAQ’s

How to get to oaxaca .

There are several ways to get to Oaxaca. If you are traveling from Mexico, the easiest way to get to Oaxaca is by plane from Mexico City, Guadalajara, and Tuxtla Guttierez. You can also take a bus from many destinations within the country which is going to be cheaper than a plane but takes longer. If you are flying to Oaxaca from the United States, you can take a flight from Houston and several other destinations.

How to get from Mexico City to Oaxaca?

Many travelers visit Oaxaca after spending a couple of days in the country’s capital. If you are one of them, you can either catch the ADO bus to Oaxaca from the main bus terminal in Mexico City or take a flight from Mexico City, which will be more expensive but will save you many hours on the road.

How to get from San Cristobal De Las Casas to Oaxaca ?

The capital of the neighboring Chiapas State, San Cristobal De Las Casas (or shortly San Cristobal) is a big tourist hub in Southern Mexico with many travelers stopping there before making their way to Oaxaca (or the other way around). Although there are no flights between San Cristobal De Las Casas and Oaxaca, there are daily flights from the capital of Chiapas, Tuxtla Guttierez to Oaxaca.

Another option is to take a bus from the main bus station in San Cristobal to Oaxaca, however, be prepared for a very long ride. The last time I did it, it took about 12 hours.

Do I need to rent a car in Oaxaca?

This is one of the most common questions about Oaxaca travel. And there are a few ways to answer it. If you plan to travel to Oaxaca City, you can explore most places on foot or get around by public transportation or taxis. However, if you plan to take day trips from Oaxaca, and travel at your own pace, renting a car is a good idea .

You can rent a car in several places around Oaxaca, including Oaxaca airport, and around town. If you are looking for a good car rental company, I recommend City Car Rental that has reasonable prices and good inventory and has offices in many popular destinations of Mexico.

Taking guided tours from Oaxaca

If renting a car in Oaxaca is not in your plans, no problem.

The good news is that many tour agencies in Oaxaca offer daily tours of the most popular places to visit near Oaxaca, so you can always take an organized tour to visit Monte Alban, Hierve El Agua, and traditional weaving villages. One of my favorite websites for booking tours is Get Your Guide where you can find tons of great tours in Oaxaca and many other parts of Mexico.

Is Oaxaca safe to visit?

Since travel safety in Mexico is a common question among many travelers, you too might wonder whether it’s safe to visit Oaxaca. The answer is yes, yes, and yes. The city of Oaxaca and the rest of the state are considered among the safest destinations in Mexico, and I never felt unsafe during a few weeks here.

What is the best time to visit Oaxaca?

Consider the dry season which lasts from December through May. This, however, comes with a caveat, because the dry season is also the busiest time in Oaxaca when travelers from all over the globe come here which drives up prices of hotels and tours. Oaxaca is super busy in late October and early November because of the Day of the Dead celebrations with many people coming to town from all over the place.

If you are looking for the best time to visit Oaxaca, consider shoulder season which is in November before it gets too busy, and May before the rainy season begins (June through September).

Best things to do in Oaxaca: Final thoughts

If you are still wondering whether Oaxaca is worth a visit, I want to dispel any doubts that you might have. Yes, yes, and yes! Oaxaca is one of the most beautiful destinations in Mexico and this town deserves a spot on your Mexico itinerary for so many reasons!

While you might have to hop around a bit to visit Oaxaca (especially if you are visiting from the United States or Europe), the journey is well worth it! Oaxaca is the taste of authentic Mexico and it boasts stunning landscapes, colorful artisan villages, and markets, delicious homemade food, and tons of wonderful landmarks.

36 Hours in Oaxaca, Mexico

By Elisabeth Malkin Updated Nov. 23, 2023

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

Recommendations

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

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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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Last updated on January 22, 2024 by Shannon

One of the most culturally rich places in Mexico, Oaxaca state is among my favorite places in the country. This region, and the city in particular, is widely known for it’s mezcal, chocolate, and mole; as well as the diverse indigenous groups still calling the Oaxaca Valley home after hundreds of years.

While I love traveling the Yucatán Peninsula for its intriguing Maya ruins and uniquely beautiful cenotes , Oaxaca provides a blend of food, culture, and history unique to this part of Mexico—what you can find here is impossible to enjoy the same way when visiting anywhere else.

And while tourists descend on Oaxaca (pronounced wa-HAH-kah) for the two most notable festivals, Guelaguetza and Day of the Dead, it’s vibrant and interesting year-round. The city has beautifully restored colonial buildings—many of which are now hotels, museums, and restaurants.

In the past decade, international travel magazines have featured Oaxacan chefs for their intriguing twists on classic dishes that have long shaped the history of Mexico’s food scene. Couple that with it being the birthplace of mezcal—a smoky, fiery liquor that has quickly risen as the drink of choice in hipster havens from San Francisco to London—and you will never lack for things to do when you visit Oaxaca .

Jump to the part of this travel guide, or start from the top and work your way through the information and recommendations for visiting Oaxaca, Mexico .

Table of Contents

Things to Know Before Traveling to Oaxaca, Mexico

During the pre-colonial period, Oaxaca was home to roughly 16 different cultures; each one had its own language, customs, and traditions. The Zapotecs and Mixtecas were the largest and most sophisticated of these, and this ratio holds true today as descendants are widely spread throughout the valley in small villages and farms.

Between 1500-500 B.C., San José Magote, a Zapotec city, was a significant settlement in Oaxaca, notable for its early use of pottery, a craft still evident in the region. Oaxaca, rich in cultural diversity, was home to about 16 different cultures, including the prominent Zapotecs and Mixtecs, whose descendants still populate the valley.

In the 15th century, the Aztecs conquered Oaxaca, but their control was brief. Hernán Cortés arrived in 1519, marking the beginning of Spanish influence. The Spanish colonization reshaped Oaxaca, evident in its colonial architecture and the haciendas that now dot the valley, many turned into mezcal plantations.

Oaxaca’s layout, with its central zócalo, reflects its colonial past. Despite Spanish rule, which lasted 300 years, the region saw significant changes, including the battle of Huajuapan in 1811, where Valerio Trujano’s forces claimed Oaxaca for the revolutionaries. Later, during the Mexican Revolution, Emiliano Zapata’s ideology that land belonged to the workers gained traction here.

Today, Oaxaca, with its blend of indigenous and colonial history, remains a culturally rich but economically challenged region. The city and state of Oaxaca continue to be a tapestry of historical layers, each adding to its unique character.

Fast Facts About Oaxaca, Mexico Travel

Mexican peso (MXN) ( current exchange rate )

Electricity

127V/60Hz (American plug)

Can you drink the water in Oaxaca?

No, the water is not safe to drink in Oaxaca. Expats and travelers should drink bottled, or consider the merits of a  SteriPen  or  LifeStraw  for your trip.

I used the tap water to brush my teeth, but other expats do not. If you’re a new traveler, or you have a sensitive stomach, use bottled water even for teeth brushing.

Local SIM Cards

This is a cinch and highly recommended for GPS and navigating. Telcel is likely your best option, although Movistar is popular in this region of Mexico (but not other regions).

For most travelers to Oaxaca, and especially those traveling to other areas of Mexico, opt for Telcel. If you have a U.S. T-Mobile account, it will do the trick, too.

There’s a full SIM guide here —note that you must show your passport to buy one at some locations (it’s hit or miss which places will ask to see it before selling you a SIM).

Festivals of Note

• Day of the Dead is the signature festival in this region of Mexico and Oaxaca is an ideal place to celebrate. Day of the Dead occurs around Halloween, specifically in the first days of November.
• Guelaguetza is huge and celebrates the 16 indigenous cultures of the Oaxaca Valley (July).
• On an offbeat note, The Fiesta de Rábanos , the Festival of the Radishes is lively and takes place in the zócalo around the Christmas holidays with fireworks and crafts (23 December).

Oaxaca’s Primary Airports

• Xoxocotlán in Oaxaca City (OAX)
• Bahías de Huatulco in Huatulco (HUX)

How’s the wifi in Oaxaca?

Wifi is rampant and available at guesthouses and cafes. The data plans are also solid inside of cities and tourist areas so you can tether to your phone if you buy a data plan.

Possible Issues

Not many. If you’re prone to nosebleeds, then the extremely dry winters might exacerbate the issue (it did for me).

And since Oaxaca is at altitude, those coming from sea-level may experience a few days of headaches and tiredness that can come from altitude sickness if you’re not acclimated. Stay well hydrated and get a good night’s sleep.

What’s the weather like in Oaxaca?

The winters in Oaxaca are mild, cool, and exceedingly dry. You won’t see snow in the city, but night-time temperatures can drop drastically, even on what was a seemingly mild winter day.

By mid summer, it’s scorching hot and unrelentingly sunny—bring a hat and sunscreen. Stay well-hydrated year round.

How much does it cost to travel Oaxaca?

Oaxaca is a favored destination for North American retirees because it’s so easy on the wallet. Extended-stay accommodation for the winter months books up early, but you can find affordable hostels and guesthouses year round.

A budget backpacker can get by with $30/day on the frugal side, and mid-range travelers will have plenty of tasty food and cute guesthouses to enjoy on a budget closer to $55/day per person.

Long-term, it costs well under $800 a month to live in Oaxaca City .

Accommodation

Accommodation is a cinch. I used the Moon Guide Oaxaca when moving around the state. If you’re basing yourself out of one of the major cities, consider using one of the booking engines. 

While the city guides below go to my favorite hotel booking site, Booking.com , many great deals are also found on VRBO  if you are member—vacation rentals can actually save you money since you often have a full kitchen, particularly if you’re a family or traveling with more than three people.

These websites have very established presences in this region of Mexico because of the number of North American snowbirds visiting each winter— vacation rentals are among the easiest ways to book nice spots in a good area of town. Backpackers can find dorms on Hostelworld , but most travelers, including budget travelers, can find great deals at Booking.com .

And if you buy a local SIM (which you should), you can easily call ahead and directly reserve spots en route. The months of December through February are very busy in Oaxaca City—if you plan any sort of extended stay, book ahead or you will not find affordable apartments and accommodations for rent.

If none of these will do, check out my detailed guide to finding good places to stay .

How to Get Around Oaxaca

The major roads are well maintained and connect most any place you’ll need to go, but this is a mountainous region of Mexico and there is no way to avoid the winding roads. If you are prone to motion sickness, the long bus rides will tax your ability to stay well.

For shorter rides, colectivos , shared taxis, are an easy way to visit any of the rural towns. These taxis congregate at Abastos market (also called “central” when you/drivers are returning to the city), and a few other spots around town.

The northeastern colectivo launching point that I reference in the recommended daytrips is  pinpointed here —it’s easy to find because of the nearby McDonald’s. Go to this spot, then find a shared taxi with the name of your destination painted on the side. The colectivos usually cost 10-25 pesos max to any towns out in the Valley, and they add people to the car as you drive in the direction of your destination.

Of note, the local buses are considerably safer than colectivos , but less convenient. If you have Spanish and time on your side, these buses ply the main highways out of town. You will have to know your stop by sight or beg help from locals. You can catch a bus to the day-trip spots from the same spot where you catch a colectivo .

In Oaxaca City, the taxis are a flat fee; they are convenient if you find yourself out late and not prepared to navigate the cobbled streets on the way home. That said, most of Oaxaca City is walkable and you can explore everything in the city on foot.

Getting to or from Oaxaca

Use Bookaway to find the best route to or from Oaxaca, which includes public transport, flight prices, and the price of private or shared shuttle transfers. A lot of travelers arrive from Mexico City or Puebla , and those routes have quite a few options .

Note that the Ado bus network is extensive and ideal for those on a budget. These buses are large, comfortable, and affordable. Rental cars are easy to come by, although expensive to rent—they tack on huge fees and taxes to the offered price (read this thorough piece on navigating rental insurance in Mexico ).

Food & Drink Considerations

Food standards are good in this region of Mexico, and Oaxaca is famous for its culinary traditions and history. This is the “Land of the Seven Moles,” and they take their food (and pork in particular) seriously.

The water is not safe to drink, but bottled water is easy to find. Street food is scattered around, but the markets hold most of the street eats, so check the guides below to known where you can find the affordable and tasty street eats.

Outside of the markets, you can most often find steamed corn ( elotes and esquites ), burgers, and sometimes a taco stand. If you decide to stick to budget and street food options, follow these food safety principles .

If you’re vegetarian, Oaxaca is a hard place to eat. Because of that, I wrote a dedicated post outlining how to eat vegetarian in Oaxaca, Mexico , specifically.

Mezcal is the drink of choice in Oaxaca and you don’t have to go far to try it. It’s a very strong and smoky liquor, like tequila with a very distinct flavor. I don’t care for mezcal in any fashion (and there are many types and flavors to try), but I was in the minority, by far. In my group of friends, I alone didn’t enjoy the drink.

That said, I did enjoy learning about the history of the drink and understanding the importance of the agave plants to the local populations. I recommend mezcal tours in the city guides below; I highly recommended that you sign up for one.

Is Oaxaca safe to visit?

Although a few regions of Mexico have cartel violence and safety concerns, Oaxaca State is mostly free from these threats.

You may, however, encounter issues with the local protests—Oaxaca is famous for the amount of protests and these protesters are usually nonviolent, but they do close down the roads for entire days. The protests ramp up every year around May. Many times, these take place outside of the tourist areas, but occasionally the protest focuses on the city-center’s zòcolo.

By and large, tourists shouldn’t fear the protesting activity as it is most often teachers protesting wages, villages protesting new laws, and things of that sort. Again, it’s not targeted toward tourists and the tour companies and people of Oaxaca will be grateful to see you no matter what types of local protests are occurring at the time. But, you should double-check local information before traveling there in spring/summer.

In terms of personal safety walking around town, you should have no issues walking the city center after dark, it’s lively and active until midnight; and later on the weekends. Cabs are always nearby too, if you need a quick lift home.

No matter what time of day, be cautious of petty theft and opportunistic crimes like bag and phone snatching by a motorbike zooming past—it’s not common, but nor is it unheard of. There have been problems with muggings for solitary hikers near the Cerro del Fortin auditorium.

Check the U.S. government’s travel warnings to keep abreast of that situation, but mostly don’t be up there after sunset, or alone with expensive gear.

Don’t forget to  book travel insurance for your trip —a great policy provides coverage in case of medical emergencies, lost or stolen gear, adventure sports riders, and more. I’ve used  IMG Global  for more than a decade  highly recommend it !

Pre-Trip Reading Inspiration: Books About Mexico

Fiction & Nonfiction Books About Mexico

• La Casa de los Secretos : Only available in Spanish, it’s also the only novel I could find set in Oaxaca and sharing the culture and history unique to this area. You should definitely read it before visiting if you can read Spanish.
• Mexico: Biography of Power : For the history buff, it doesn’t get much better than this comprehensive look at how the centralization of power throughout Mexico’s history has shaped not only the country, but all of Latin America.
• The Death Of Artemio Cruz : Hailed as a masterpiece and a “haunting voyage into the soul of modern Mexico,” this novel uses the narrator’s flashbacks to process how the country’s past continues to affect the present.
• Sliced Iguana: Travels in Mexico : On my list for a while now and recommended by readers as an easy read that gives a light touch to all the history and culture she talks about while retelling her journey.
• The People’s Guide to Mexico : Even veteran Mexico travelers will enjoy this book. It’s like a guidebook, but even more. It’s hands-down the best guidebook you should use to understand the various regions, the cultural quirks, and all the reasons Mexico is a fantastic place to travel and live. Unlike the Lonely Planet recommended above, this one is a cultural guide to the country. It comes highly recommended by me, and by heaps of Amazon reviewers too.
• Frida at Home : A beautiful and well-researched book on Frida Kahlo, one of Mexico’s well known artists and a national icon. From her early life to her painting and marriage to Diego Rivera, give one a peek into how Mexican culture and landscapes shaped this magnificent woman.

Podcasts and Online Reads About Mexico

• The Rise of Mezcal: Great for Cocktails, Better for Oaxaca : Mezcal is the favored drink in Oaxaca State, and it’s making waves all over the world too. This is a great read on the history of mezcal and a necessary reading before signing up for your own mezcal tour to a nearby  palenque .
• Mexico: History and Resistance : A solid podcast that makes listening to the country’s history easy. Download this and prep for your Mexico trip by taking a trip through time.
• Mexico with kids : Good niche read with a lot of facts and information you might be wondering about family specific travel.

Read all my Mexico travel stories  and find more regional fiction and nonfiction books and long-reads .

Recommended Guidebook

The Moon Guide Oaxaca is your best option. I always carry a paper guidebook so that I can easily read the history of each site while I am there. I also have a travel guide to the Yucatan Peninsula  and Guatemala for those heading that way.

Socially Responsible Travel in Oaxaca, Mexico

Socially responsible travel in Mexico is easier than in some parts of the world. The dark side of animal tourism haunts many travelers in Southeast Asia . But in Mexico, responsible tourism focuses more on people than animals (excluding the diving done along the coast!).

Oaxaca is the heart of indigenous Mexico and Oaxaca State has a large concentration of the indigenous cultures—16 different groups with unique customs and languages date back hundreds of years. There are general tactics for responsible travel  anywhere in the world, and those linked tips allow you to lessen your impact on the places you visit.

For Oaxaca specifically, let’s look at the regional activities and treks, as well as how to find responsible volunteering opportunities.

Pick out accommodation on Booking.com.

This is the only booking platform I use because it rewards you for loyalty, and I regularly score free breakfasts and 15% off my hotel.

Trekking & Cabañas

Oaxaca State is a mountainous region encompassed within the Sierra Madre de Oaxaca. This unique location makes it the ideal place to plan nature hikes and remote homestays within the indigenous communities.

In fact, community-based tourism (CBT) is the number one way to responsibly visit the mountains outside of Oaxaca, as well as the local indigenous cultures. Many of the cabañas are well-appointed too. Some are rustic, but others offer many creature comforts you wouldn’t expect to find in such rural areas.

These communities have invested a lot of money and resources in making their cabañas and towns hospitable to tourism. That said, there is painfully little advice on how to arrange a trek or a weekend at one of the cabañas.

For formal trekking tours, where you go on a proper adventure with guides, Expediciones Sierra Norte  is the best company. Not only are their tours great, but they have sound responsible tourism practices. They have offices in Oaxaca Centro if you want a face-to-face before booking something.

For indie travelers with a bit of Spanish and a sense of adventure, you can book directly with the cabañas located in towns all over the region. Oaxaca Mio offers the best information on each site, what they offer, and contact information. That fantastic yellow map is from its website, and it’s the only one like it that I’ve ever found.

Oaxaca Mio provides information on programs in all the tiny towns, like San Miguel del Valle , which is an uber traditional town where I spent many of my volunteers hours . You can also find information on the nearby  Pueblos Magicos , which are cultural heritage towns singled out by the government as special. The green area on the map, Pueblos Mancomunados , is particularly popular with birders and nature lovers.

Volunteering in Oaxaca

Oaxaca has a range of opportunities for travelers keen to volunteer in the region. Most of the volunteer opportunities require at least a few weeks commitment from volunteers to ensure greatest impact. That said, there are opportunities for short-term projects if you have specialized skills such as any sort of medical or healthcare background, or a background in construction and building-type work.

The indigenous communities outside of Oaxaca often lack access to strong healthcare. For that reason, doctors in any field (medical, dental, ophthalmology, physical therapy, etc) are particularly useful, even in short clinics. If you’re a medical volunteer heading to Oaxaca, you can certainly find an outlet for your skills and knowledge.

There are many large NGOs offering paid programs, but you can easily find indie opportunities that only require you to cover your own room and board for this type of travel. Consider this list of vetted independent volunteer opportunities in Mexico —there are extensive options in Oaxaca State.

Supporting Responsible Businesses

Consider using and visiting these  Mexican social enterprises on your trip . Supporting social enterprises is one of the easiest ways to create a trip with positive impact. This means picking businesses that are using funds to support local communities and to offer training, support, or to protect natural resources.

You can do everything from shop for souvenirs to learning how to make pure chocolate to picking a trekking guide to finding a homestay—all with companies committed to social impact and respect.

World Travel Planning Resources

From the best travel gear to how to pick travel insurance—a detailed list of resources, tips, and advice to help you plan an amazing trip.

Best Things to Do in Oaxaca, Mexico

Oaxaca State is a popular tourist region in Mexico. My list of the Best Things to Do in Oaxaca has the detailed transportation information you’d need to actually visit these places, and covers everything to do in Oaxaca City, and as day or weekend trips into the surrounding mountains and ecotourism hotspots.

If you head to the coast, use this thorough Travel Guide to Puerto Escondido .

My Favorite Oaxaca Travel Experiences:

• Volunteering with En Vía and learning more about the region’s indigenous cultures and how microfinance is helping them better their lives.
• Visiting the Zapotec cities and villages east of Oaxaca, like Teotitlán and others.
• Hanging out with friends in  Oaxaca City’s zócalo in the evenings and soaking in the music, laughter, and happiness.
• Visiting the stunning frozen waterfalls at Hierve el Agua outside of Oaxaca.
• Taking photo walks during the golden hour before sunset to capture the gorgeous churches and lively   street scenes and colorful graffiti around the city.

Things to Do in Oaxaca City Center

In the heart of Mexico, Oaxaca stands as a beacon of cultural richness and diversity, offering a myriad of experiences that blend history, art, and nature into a tapestry of unforgettable moments.

In addition to the traditional things to do, use Que Pasa Oaxaca ‘s event’s guide to see the upcoming shows, lectures, arts performances, and more.

Here’s a curated list of the best things to do :

Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca

Housed in the beautiful Santo Domingo complex, this museum is a treasure trove of Oaxacan history and culture. Explore exhibits that tell the story of the region from pre-Hispanic times to the present.

Then go book a chocolate workshop run by CACAO Cooperative is a very  small social enterprise still growing its business. It’s a hands-on way to learn every step of the process from a wonderful business.

Templo de Santo Domingo

A marvel of Baroque architecture, the Santo Domingo Temple dazzles with its intricate gold-leaf interior. It’s a testament to the artistic and religious fervor that has shaped Oaxaca.

Jardín Etnobotánico de Oaxaca

Adjacent to Santo Domingo, this ethnobotanical garden is a living encyclopedia of Oaxaca’s diverse plant life. It’s a serene escape that highlights the importance of flora in Oaxacan culture.

Mercado Benito Juárez & Mercado 20 de Noviembre

Dive into the heart of Oaxacan life at these bustling markets. They’re a sensory feast of colors, smells, and sounds, offering everything from handicrafts to local delicacies.

Mezcal Tasting

Immerse yourself in the world of mezcal, Oaxaca’s iconic spirit. Visit local distilleries to learn about its production and savor the smoky flavor that captures the essence of the region.

Learning Spanish

Embrace the local language to deepen your connection with Oaxaca. Engaging in Spanish lessons enhances your ability to interact with locals, understand the culture, and navigate the city with greater ease.

Consider ICO  or Oaxaca International . This page also provides a full list of Spanish schools in the city .

Hanging Out in the Zócalo

The Zócalo, Oaxaca’s main square, is the city’s beating heart. Spend time here to soak in the lively atmosphere, observe the daily life of Oaxacans, and perhaps catch impromptu musical performances or local gatherings.

Taking an En Vía Tour

Participate in an En Vía tour to experience responsible tourism. These social enterprise tours offer insights into local communities, supporting women’s empowerment and sustainable development through microfinance across the Oaxaca Valley . These tours are the single best way to learn about the indigenous cultures in this region of Mexico.

Book a day tour to maximize your time.

GetYourGuide has a phenomenal range of tours, and they’re affordable too. Maximize your time by booking your must-dos as a tour, and then slot in the rest as time permits.

Doing a Mezcal Tour in the Valley

Embark on a mezcal tour in the surrounding valleys. These tours not only allow you to taste various mezcals but also provide a behind-the-scenes look at the traditional methods of mezcal production, deeply rooted in Oaxacan culture.

If you can get a spot, opt for a tour with Omar Alonso , a local Oaxacan running food and mezcal tours in the city .

Shopping for Local Handmade Goods

Oaxaca is a haven for handcrafted goods, especially tapetes (handwoven rugs). Visiting local markets and workshops gives you the chance to purchase these unique items directly from the artisans, supporting their craft and taking home a piece of Oaxacan heritage.

Taking a Cooking Class

Engage in a cooking class to delve into Oaxaca’s renowned culinary scene. Learn to prepare traditional dishes using local ingredients, an experience that offers both a taste of the region’s flavors and an understanding of its culinary traditions.

El Sabor Zapotec is a cooking class run by Reyna Mendoza, one of the women in the En Vía microfinance program, and it’s well done.

Best Day Trips from Oaxaca

Venturing beyond the colorful streets of Oaxaca City reveals a landscape rich with natural wonders and ancient sites, each offering a unique glimpse into the region’s soul.

Use my detailed list of things to do for transportation information on any of the day trips mentioned or highlighted in this Oaxaca Travel Guide. These day trips will enrich your journey with unforgettable experiences—I loved each one of these for its ability to lead me through the tapestry of Oaxaca’s diverse cultures and topography.

Hierve el Agua

Venture to these natural rock formations resembling cascades of water. The mineral-rich springs here create a surreal landscape, perfect for a refreshing dip and awe-inspiring photos.

Explore this archaeological site known for its intricate geometric mosaics. Mitla was a religious center for the Zapotecs and later the Mixtecs, and its unique artistry is a marvel.

Witness the grandeur of the ancient Tule Tree, one of the world’s largest living beings. Its immense girth and age make it a natural wonder and a symbol of endurance.

Teotitlán del Valle

This village is famed for its handwoven textiles. Meet artisans who use traditional techniques to create vibrant rugs and tapestries, each a piece of living heritage.

San Bartolo Coyotepec

Known for its black pottery, this village offers a glimpse into an ancient craft. Discover the skill and artistry behind each piece, shaped and fired using age-old methods.

Monte Albán

Perched atop a mountain, Monte Albán’s ancient ruins offer a window into the lives of the Zapotecs. Wander among the pyramids and tombs, feeling the echoes of a civilization that thrived centuries ago.

Where to Stay in Oaxaca

Midrange : La Betulia , a charming B&B connected to the En Vía social enterprise , offers a beautifully renovated space in a central location, while El Diablo y La Sandía stands out for its unique touches and warm, family-run hospitality.

Budget : Casa Angel Hostel is the top choice for budget travelers, boasting clean, spacious, and modern private rooms, a communal kitchen, free Wi-Fi, and a lively backpacker atmosphere.

Upscale : For a luxurious stay, consider Hotel La Casona de Tita , known for its tranquil ambiance and homemade breakfasts, or Casa de las Bugambilias , acclaimed for its small charms and exquisite bedrooms.

Where to Eat and Drink

I recommend Los Danzantes or Catedral  as the most vegetarian-friendly upscale restaurants. Casa Oaxaca is not a good bet for vegetarians, but is great for others. And I did not eat at Pitiona, another top fusion restaurant in town so I can’t weigh in there but it should be on your radar.

Grab coffee . For a quick coffee, stop at a Café Brújulas—I miss those the berry muffins. My favorite tiny spot is Alma de Cafe  ( Margarita Maza de Juárez 211-A )—it also offers salads, fresh-baked muffins, and cookies.

Drink Mezcal . Mezcalarita is one good option ( Macedonio Alcalá 706 ).  Mezcalogía is perennially popular ( García Vigil 509 ). And if you’re really into the drink, this list is better than many I’ve seen online.

Onward travel

Having spent a number of months backpacking Central America and Mexico across multiple trips, plan your time in the following locations.

Mexico » Yucatan Peninsula | Yucatan with Kids | Oaxaca City | San Pancho | Guanajuato | Chichen Itza | Secret Mud Beach | Cultural Immersion | Taco History | Colonial Mexico

Guatemala » Antigua | Tikal | Rio Dulce | Xela | Chichicastenango | Learning Spanish | Semana Santa | Easter Traditions

Belize » Chetumal Border | Culture

Honduras » Copan Ruinas | Utila | Culture

Essential Travel Planning Resources

❗ Yes, you need travel insurance . IMG Global is the travel insurance I’ve used for well over a decade of traveling solo, and with kids. Here’s why .

🧳 Smart packing can save your trip. Shop my favorite travel gear , including all of the packing essentials for world travel , gear to keep you safe on the road, my favorite travel books , and more.

🛏️ Find great accommodation . Booking.com is essentially the only hotel booking site that I use. It has a wide and affordable selection of traditional hotels, but also hostels and vacation rentals, too. Use these pro tips to find the best travel accommodation .

📍 Navigate more effectively. Rome2Rio is super handy to assess the full range of transport options between two cities—shows everything from flights to trains, buses, minibuses, and more. If you’re booking a rental car, I’ve always found the best deals on RentalCars.com .

✈️ Book affordable flights. Expedia is one of the first places I look for low-cost flights .

☕ Peruse all of my tips for round the world travel , or learn how to move and live abroad .

The ABSOLUTE Best Things to Do in Oaxaca, Mexico

Adventurous Kate contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I will earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks!

Looking for the best things to do in Oaxaca? I’ve got you covered! Oaxaca is one of my favorite places in Mexico, and I think it’s one of the most special cities in Latin America.

Oaxaca ( pronounced wa-HA-ca ) ticks all the boxes — it’s an incredibly beautiful city, it’s an endlessly interesting city; it’s large enough to have tons of things to do but small enough to get around on foot; and the value for money is EXCELLENT. Oh, and did I mention it’s a culinary nirvana?

I arrived in Oaxaca a sleep-deprived zombie, thanks to taking the 10-hour overnight bus from San Cristóbal de las Casas. The sun shone beautifully, warming my face. A strong coffee at a cafe on the Zócalo and a Oaxacan tamale, steamed in a banana leaf and filled with black mole, brought me back to life. I people-watched with a smile on my face. I was hooked on this city already.

I spent a full week in Oaxaca, exploring it top to bottom. Mexico is one of my favorite countries in the world, and I love to visit every winter when possible. Now I’m considering spending a winter or two in Oaxaca, just to enjoy it for longer.

This is my Oaxaca travel guide, and I hope it helps you plan a fantastic trip.

(Please note that there is both a state of Oaxaca and a city of Oaxaca in Mexico. This guide refers to Oaxaca city, also called Oaxaca de Juarez, which is within Oaxaca state.)

This guide was updated as of December 2021.

Table of Contents

Why Travel to Oaxaca?

There are some cities that seem to epitomize their countries. Take Kyoto: you have pristine temples and gleaming skyscrapers, ryokan and high-end kaiseiki meals and local markets selling unusual foods. It’s exactly what people picture Japan to be. Or Sevilla — a city of orange trees and flamenco and ornate buildings and bullfighting, the kind of destination people imagine when they think about Spain.

And Oaxaca is that city for Mexico. While Mexico is a very diverse nation, Oaxaca is like a dream image of what people perceive Mexico to be.

A warm, colorful city located in a valley among mountains. Street vendors serving up delicious food. Women dressed in colorful embroidered dresses. Ancient pyramids just outside the city. Parades and festivals and art.

If you’re looking to base in Mexico for a full week, exploring the city in depth and taking day trips to nearby destinations, Oaxaca would be my top recommendation.

What NOT to Do in Mexico

Oaxaca Travel FAQ

My two absolute favorite things to do in Oaxaca are to experience a temezcal (sweat lodge) ceremony and go for a mole and mezcal pairing class .

Take the Oaxaca free walking tour (remember to tip your guide). People-watching on the Zócalo is free; having a meaty meal at 20 November Market is cheap and fun.

Oaxaca is pronounced “wa-HA-ca.”

Yes, Oaxaca is a very safe city to visit, even for solo female travelers . Take the same precautions you would in your home country: be aware of your surroundings, don’t drink too much, and keep in touch with someone at home.

Things to Do in Oaxaca

One of the best things to do in Oaxaca is simply walk around the city and enjoy the atmosphere. Oaxaca is a city that lends itself to wandering, and I could wander Oaxaca for hours.

Here are some more things to do in Oaxaca:

People-Watch on the Zócalo

The Zócalo is the main square in Oaxaca’s city center. It’s a park with lots of pathways and it serves as a gathering place for Oaxacans. Like many other cities, Oaxaca’s main square is the place to see and be seen around sunset.

Here you’ll find balloon vendors and street food stalls, teenagers giggling in crowds, multi-generational families enjoying each other’s company, and the occasional pair of well-dressed chihuahuas. Occasionally you’ll catch a musical performance. It’s local culture at its best!

Use the Zócalo as your base, and from there you can set out in any direction and enjoy Oaxaca’s streets.

Free Oaxaca Walking Tour

Taking a free walking tour is one of my favorite ways to get my bearings in a new city. Oaxaca Free Walking Tour has daily tours led by local guides.

On this tour you’ll get to know your way around the city while learning about Oaxacan history, arts, gastronomy, Indigenous cultures, and social and political movements. It’s one of the best things to do in Oaxaca on your first day to give you the framework for the rest of your trip.

Just keep in mind that a free tour is not TOTALLY free — your guide expects (and deserves) tips. Most free tours even have to pay their company a portion of the tips they receive. Tip generously for your free tour. Don’t be one of the people who shamefully slinks away.

Free tours are daily at 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM, departing from Teatro Macedonia Alcalá.

Eat Meat at Mercado 20 Noviembre

Looking for a fun, local, cheap food experience? Well, this one is particularly for carnivores. Head down to Mercado 20 Noviembre and you get to choose the meat of your dreams!

It’s a bit intimidating, but don’t worry — Oaxacans are lovely people and they’ll help you if you need it. Start out by choosing vegetables to eat, then walk up to one of the butcher counters and order the meat. You’ll be given a number and you can sit down at the tables. When it’s ready, they’ll let you pick it up. From the table, you can order tortillas, condiments, and refreshments from the wait staff (I recommend a Victoria beer).

Mercado 20 Noviembre is just south of Mercado Benito Juárez, another big market in Oaxaca that is worth exploring.

Experience a Temazcal

One of the most unforgettable things I did in Oaxaca was visit Cevarium Temazcal , a traditional “sweat lodge” operated by a lovely Zapotec couple, Blanca and Osvelia. This is an activity that you’ll remember forever.

The Temazcal is a traditional health method for the Zapotec, and this particular Temazcal offers you a way to respectfully engage in an Indigenous activity in Oaxaca.

There were three of us participating: me, Charlie, and another woman. We wore bathing suits and each sat on a small stool inside the low-ceiling temazcal. Then Osvelia closed the door and the heat began! He gave us directions on what to do. We squeezed oranges on ourselves (“Like a turkey,” he said.) We rubbed local clays on our faces and dumped cold buckets of water on our heads. We each sat in our own cool bathtubs in the hot room as Osvelia poured chocolate and mole over us.

I found it to be like a meditation, a way to step outside your body and concentrate on the here and now.

What I most appreciated was how much Osvelia reassured us. “Don’t suffer,” he repeated over and over, reminding us that if it was too much heat, we could lie down or even leave.

On recommendation from others, we did the version with the herbal bath. Book through Facebook Messenger. The regular Temazcal experience costs 1000 pesos ($51) for one person, 1200 pesos ($61) for two people, or 500 pesos ($25) each for 3-6 people; the Temazcal experience plus the herbal bath costs 1300 pesos ($66) per person. Book ASAP because this tends to sell out.

Cevarium Temazcal is located outside the city, but they can send their driver to pick you up for an extra fee (highly recommended because most local drivers won’t be able to find it).

Take a Mole and Mezcal Pairing Class

One of my absolute favorite things to do in Oaxaca was a mezcal and mole pairing . Mole and mezcal are two specialties from Oaxaca, but you have no idea how complex they are until you try them one at a time, savoring them, noting all the differences! It’s a great place to try several moles at once.

This experience is given by Daniel, a sommelier with a really interesting background. In fact, we enjoyed his tour so much that we hung out with him later on and he showed us around the cool parts of the Xochimilco neighborhood.

Think mezcal is tequila’s smokier sister? Get ready to have your mind blown — high quality mezcal isn’t supposed to be smoky at all, Daniel told us! It’s like wine. It’s subtle and vibrant, and once you attune your mind to its flavors, you’ll be amazed. This mezcal tasting might have the side effect of ruining you for mezcal!

You can book it here. Rates from $52. Very highly recommended.

Visit Templo Santo Domingo and the Museo de las Culturas

These two Oaxacan sites are located in the same complex. Templo de Santo Domingo is a church — soft stone on the outside, intricate gold patterns on the inside.

The Museo de las Culturas , or Museum of Cultures, is a museum highlighting the cultures of the many Indigenous communities of the region. Exhibitions focus on pre-Hispanic through the present day. Don’t miss the display from Tomb 7 at Monte Albán, filled with gold, silver, and gemstones.

Templo Santo Domingo is free to enter; entry to the Museo de las Culturas is 80 pesos ($4). The museum is primarily in Spanish, but the Google Translate photo app on your phone can translate in real time.

Visit the Ethnobotanical Garden

Next door to the Templo Santo Domingo is Oaxaca’s ethnobotanical garden , containing a beautiful collection of plants from all over the state of Oaxaca.

Oaxaca is the most biodiverse state in Mexico and the plants are grouped according to ecological region. To this day, the plants are watered manually from water collected from the church’s roof!

These botanical gardens are not a walk-in attraction — you must book a guided tour. English language tours take place on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays at 1:00 PM and cost 100 pesos ($5) per person.

Eat All the Oaxacan Food

Oaxacan food is fantastic — the best in Mexico. And for good reason. Take this opportunity to dive into local Oaxacan specialties, many of which are tough to find outside the region.

Here are a few dishes that you should prioritize trying in Oaxaca:

Tlayudas — Large tortillas topped with refried beans, avocado, tomatoes, any kind of meat, and sometimes Oaxacan cheese. Some people call it Oaxacan pizza.

Mole — Forget any mole you’ve ever had, because Oaxaca does them better, and in seven very different varieties. Try as many as you can!

Tamales Oaxaqueños — You may know tamales, but Oaxaca’s version are steamed in banana leaves and often filled with mole negro.

Memelas — Similar to tostadas, but featuring a soft, thick corn base topped with beans, cheeses, meats, and salsas. They’re most popular for breakfast.

Empanadas — Different from other Latin American empanadas, Oaxacan empanadas are tortillas filled with toppings, folded in half, and grilled.

Huitlacoche — Corn fungus, often served in tacos. It’s a seasonal item (May-September). Mushroomy and earthy, it tastes better if you don’t think about what you’re actually eating.

Quesillo — Also known as Oaxaca cheese, this is a stringy white cheese that goes on everything.

Chapulines — Fried grasshoppers. You can use them as a topping or just eat them like French fries!

Tejate — A frothy, chalky-looking beverage that is a bit of an acquired taste, made with ground corn and cacao.

Taking a food tour is a great way to try lots of Oaxacan specialties! Oaxaca Flavors is a tour that will stuff you with more than two dozen delicious specialties over the course of four hours. I recommend doing this early in your trip so you’ll find out your favorites and order more of them. Contact them for current rates.

See below for the best restaurants in Oaxaca.

Take a Cooking Class

Taking a Oaxaca cooking class is one of the best gifts you can give yourself and your loved ones. Imagine inviting your friends over for Mexican food, they’ll be expecting tacos, and you’ll make them a fantastic meal with complex, deep flavors!

Most Oaxaca cooking classes include a market visit to select produce before cooking. Most classes have everyone pitching in together on communal dishes; others have you cooking your own individual dish.

Here are some options:

This Oaxacan cooking class teaches how to make a full meal including a mole, plus multiple kinds of salsas and tortillas. From $77.

This traditional Oaxaca cooking class will teach you how to make your own meal, down to the tortillas, and has vegan and vegetarian options available. From $51.

This Oaxacan cooking class has you visit a market before cooking a three-course meal together. From $57.

Try Mezcal Cocktails

There are lots of nice cocktail bars and mezcalerias in Oaxaca. While you could peruse the top lists, nothing compares to randomly stumbling into a cool-looking place and staying for one drink, two drinks, maybe more, and declaring it your place.

We enjoyed a bar called Mezcalogia , which had plenty of clever concoctions. Great place for a late afternoon treat.

Book a Professional Photo Shoot

Want REALLY nice photos of yourself in Oaxaca? Book a pro photographer for a few hours! Airbnb Experiences has made it the best way for travelers to get flattering professional photos of themselves around the world for affordable prices.

Juan Pablo has shot for National Geographic and Maxim — and you can be his next subject .

Celebrate the Day of the Dead

El Día de los Muertos, the Day of the Dead, takes place all over Mexico — but Oaxaca is one of the best places to celebrate.

Day of the Dead is a festival combining pre-Hispanic and Christian traditions, a time when the door between the earthly world and the spiritual world has opened. Locals create ofrendas (offerings) for their departed loved ones at their burial sites, bringing things they would have enjoyed while living.

In Oaxaca, it extends beyond the dates of October 31-November 2 — there are comparsas (parades) and events during the last week of October and first week in November, with most of them happening on November 1.

This is a popular time to visit Oaxaca, so book your accommodation as early as possible.

Best Day Trips from Oaxaca

It may be hard to tear yourself away from the city of Oaxaca, but there is SO much beauty surrounding the city as well. Some of the best things to do in Oaxaca are within a few hours’ drive of the city.

Here are some day trips from Oaxaca worth putting on your list.

Hierve el Agua

The single most spectacular natural site close to Oaxaca is the Hierve el Agua, a natural geological formation that resembles a frozen waterfall.

This is where you’l get some of the best Instagram photos of your trip. There are lots of different angles of the formation, and if you’re lucky, you might be able to get some reflective shots. You can even go swimming in the pools — just be prepared for the water to be on the cool side!

Most day trips to the Hierve el Agua include nearby sites — a 2,000-year-old tree called El Tule is very often included, and sometimes you can get the town of Mitla included too.

This is one Oaxaca day trip that I recommend doing as an organized trip rather than doing it on your own — it’s hard to tick all three things off if you’re not familiar with the region.

That said, if you’re looking to do a high-quality photo shoot at sunset, or want to spend the day hiking around the area, you’re better off renting a car and driving on your own.

You can book a tour to Hierve el Agua, Tule tree, and Mitla here. From $21.

Monte Albán

Monte Alban is the best set of ancient ruins close to Oaxaca — and one of the best in all of Mexico. You can actually climb the pyramids here!

Monte Albán is an archaeological site originally constructed in the eight century BCE. Between 500 BCE and 850 CE, it was the most important political center in Zapotec culture.

Today Monte Albán is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, along with the city of Oaxaca. You’ll find a great plaza, truncated pyramids, a ball court, and there are more than 170 tombs.

Don’t miss Los Danzantes — slabs of rock carved in the image of contorting people. While the name suggests they were dancers, today many archaeologists believe they were prisoners depicted mid-torture.

You can book a guided half day tour of Monte Albán here. From $19.

You can also book a shuttle from Oaxaca to Monte Albán here. From $7.99.

Mezcal Fields

Dreamed of getting photos of yourself frolicking in the agave fields? Are you obsessed with mezcal? Or do you just want to spend a day seeing nature beyond the city? A day trip to the mezcal fields is a great thing to do in Oaxaca. You will be one with the agave plant!

If you’re into Instagram photos, this is a great option. But don’t pass up an opportunity to learn more about an often misunderstood spirit.

This Mezcal tour meets in Oaxaca, takes you out to a mezcal distillery and mezcal fields, then provides you with a delicious lunch with even more mezcal. From $79 per person.

If Monte Alban was the most important Zapotec political center, Mitla was the ancient religious center. Dating back to pre-Hispanic times, Mitla was the home of the high priests — the most respected and feared people in society.

Most interesting are the mosaics, carved out in geometric patterns and depicting the Earth, the sky, serpents, and other figures from nature.

It’s easy to combine a trip to Mitla with the Hierve el Agua and El Tule, the 2,000-year-old tree.

Tlacolula Sunday Market

Will you be in Oaxaca on a Sunday? Consider making a trip to the town of Tlacolula. On Sundays Tlacolula becomes home to one of the largest Indigenous markets on the planet.

People come from all over the state of Oaxaca to sell their wares at this market. You’ll find everything from fruits and vegetables to crafts, household supplies, and all kinds of meat.

This is the perfect place to get handcrafted souvenirs from Oaxaca. (Though if you have your heart set on a certain item, check prices in Oaxaca markets beforehand — sometimes it’s cheaper there.)

And the people-watching is unparalleled. Remember to be respectful as a photographer and a visitor to an Indigenous community. Always ask people permission before taking photos of them or their wares.

Don’t miss stopping at Tlacolula’s Templo de la Asunsción to admire its ornate gold chapel.

To get to Tlacolula from Oaxaca, it’s best to take a colectivo , or shared taxi. They take 45 minutes and cost about 25 pesos ($1.25). Ask your accommodation where to get a colectivo to Tlacolula; they’ll know which pickup spot is closest to you.

Where to Eat in Oaxaca

Oaxaca is the best food destination in Mexico — period. Of course, every Mexican extols their own region’s culinary traditions, but most grudgingly admit that Oaxacan cuisine is on another level.

For cheap, filling and delicious meals, head to any of the markets and see which stalls are popular. No matter where you are in the world, if it’s got a big crowd of locals waiting to eat, it’s got fantastic food. And don’t miss the meat experience at Mercado 20 Noviembre mentioned above, or a food tour.

One of the nice things about Oaxaca is that you can enjoy fine dining for a very reasonable price (and often for cheaper than Mexico City). I highly recommend planning for at least one high end meal in Oaxaca. If you’re a hardcore foodie, you’ll want several.

Here are my personal top recommendations for Oaxaca restaurants:

Origen was my personal favorite high-end restaurant we experienced in Oaxaca. Everything was inventive, delicious, immaculately plated, and thoughtfully designed. If you want to treat yourself, they have a five-course tasting menu.

Los Danzantes

Los Danzantes ? You might recognize that name from the Monte Albán ruins! This is another high-end restaurant in Oaxaca with a large courtyard area. The dishes are outstanding and great value for money — yet it feels a bit more playful and fun than other high-end restaurants. Great cocktails, too.

Ancestral Cocina Tradicional

Ancestral Cocina Tradicional is where we had our mole and mezcal experience , which you should do, but if not, I recommend having dinner at the restaurant. They serve all seven of the moles in a magical garden setting. It’s especially nice after dark.

I love a good hipster brunch place — and Boulenc is the hippest brunch restaurant in Oaxaca. Go early or prepare to wait; this place is very popular. Go Mexican and have some delicious molletes (toast with beans, pico de gallo, and cheese)…or go American with some killer pancakes.

Where to Stay in Oaxaca

Where’s the best place to stay in Oaxaca? Oaxaca is a compact and walkable (albeit hilly) city. As long as you aim for the city center, you’ll be in a good spot for exploration. Know that staying right on the Zócalo can be a bit loud (though Mexico is a loud country in general — you’ll want to bring earplugs no matter where you’re going).

If you’re looking to stay somewhere a bit less touristy, you might like the Xochimilco neighborhood, just off the center. They’ve got great coffee shops and a wonderful local ambiance. It’s cheaper, too.

Best Oaxaca Hotels

Here are the top-rated hotels in Oaxaca at various price points:

Best Luxury Hotel in Oaxaca: Pug Seal Oaxaca

This luxury boutique hotel located in the center of town is filled with color, art, and high quality luxury finishings. The murals are a nod to Oaxacan tradition while having a more modern feel. Rooms surround a gorgeous courtyard and the hotel is known for its delicious (and included) breakfasts. Pug Seal is a local Mexican brand that keeps it from being a cookie-cutter luxury hotel.

Best Mid-Range Hotel in Oaxaca: Nana Vida Hotel Oaxaca

For a hotel that is solid and upscale, Nana Vida Hotel Oaxaca ticks all the boxes. It’s cozy, colorful, and filled with art. What sets it apart is the staff, who earn consistent, gushing raves from past guests. There’s a restaurant on site and its location, in the heart of the city center, puts you close to the action.

Best Budget Hotel in Oaxaca: Capital O El Nito

There are dozens of simple hotels all over the city center, where you can get a simple room for a low price. Capital O El Nito offers you exactly that — a clean room, an attentive staff — but with a killer location, just steps from the Zócalo.

Best Hostel in Oaxaca: Azul Cielo Hostel

Located on the edge of the city center, a 10-minute walk from the Zócalo, Azul Cielo Hostel offers a lot more value for money than more central hostels. The rooms are clean and colorful; there’s a sizable terrace with a bar, and they even offer yoga classes, Spanish classes, bicycle rentals, and cultural activities. Private rooms, coed dorms, and women-only dorms are available.

Find deals on Oaxaca hotels here and see all Oaxaca home rentals here .

Best Time to Visit Oaxaca

There is no bad time to visit Oaxaca! While there are seasonal fluctuations, Oaxaca’s location in a valley at 5,102-foot elevation (1,555 meters) means that weather is relatively consistent for most of the year, with warm days and cool nights. You can plan a trip any time of year and have an enjoyable time in Oaxaca.

(That’s not the case for every city in Mexico. Land in Mérida in May and you’ll be sweltering with high humidity and scorching high temperatures; visit Mexico City in December and you’ll need a winter coat at night!)

Dry season in Oaxaca is from October to April; rainy season is from May to September. Even so, rainy season usually has clear mornings and brief showers in the afternoons.

The hottest months in Oaxaca are April and May; the coldest months in Oaxaca are November and December.

But if you’re looking for the sweet spot, where you have warm, sunny weather and very little rain, aim for October, November, February, or March.

Oaxaca gets the most visitors from December through February. Holy Week and Easter are a popular time to visit for Mexican travelers; expect higher prices and lower availability at this time.

Looking for Oaxaca festivals? Day of the Dead, El Día de los Muertos, is the biggest one of all. Festivals and parades are celebrated from the last week in October through the first week in November.

The Guelguetza Festival takes place in July and features dance performances from Oaxaca’s many Indigenous communities.

How to Get to Oaxaca City

Oaxaca is home to a small international airport. You can find direct flights to major Mexican hubs including Mexico City, Cancún, Mérida, and Guadalajara, as well as Oaxacan destinations like Puerto Escondido; internationally, there are direct flights to Los Angeles, Dallas, and Houston.

Keep in mind that this means that you need to plan your itinerary carefully — you can’t fly direct from Oaxaca to Tuxtla Gutiérrez (near San Cristóbal de las Casas) or Querétaro (near San Miguel de Allende).

Check for flights on Skyscanner — I find they tend to have the best rates.

If not flying, your best bet is to take the bus to Oaxaca. ADO buses are a safe, clean, and reliable way to get around Mexico, though you’ll want to bring your headphones, as there’s often a loud movie playing. You can see their schedules here.

Oaxaca is a six-hour bus ride from Mexico City, a 10.5-hour bus ride from Puerto Escondido (it takes an indirect route; you can drive it in about four hours), and a 10-hour bus ride from San Cristóbal de las Casas.

I took an overnight bus from San Cristóbal de las Casas to Oaxaca. It’s the most efficient way to get between the two cities, and it saves you a night’s accommodation, but I know very few people who get a good night’s sleep on a bus.

Another option is renting a car. While you don’t need a car while in Oaxaca, renting a car can be very helpful when driving long distances in Mexico. It’s also good if you want to tackle any of Oaxaca’s day trips independently. You can find the best deals at RentalCars.com .

Is Oaxaca Safe?

Yes, Oaxaca is a very safe place to visit — including for solo female travelers. In fact, it’s one of the top destinations in Mexico I would recommend for a first-time solo female traveler.

Mexico is probably the country that receives the worst PR in American media. If all you watch is cable news, you’re probably convinced that Mexico is a hellhole where cartels are waiting to butcher innocent tourists.

Mexico has its problems, but all of those cartels are operating FAR from where tourists go and have no interest in them.

What you actually get in Mexico — particularly away from the beach resorts — is towns and cities where wonderful, warm people are living normal lives. A lot of first-time visitors to Mexico are stunned at how different this is from what they’ve been told.

As for Oaxaca itself, this is a small city where locals look out for each other. Additionally, Oaxaca is home to lots of street vendors, which means that people will always be around. Most crimes against women happen in isolated situations, not when there’s a whole audience to witness them.

Tourism is the bread and butter of Oaxaca — for Mexican travelers as well as international travelers. They want you to have the best experience possible, and they know nobody will come there if it’s not safe.

If you’re traveling to Oaxaca, whether on your own or with a friend or partner, follow my universal travel safety advice : Research your destination before you arrive. Only take what you need when going out and leave the rest of your belongings locked up in your accommodation. Limit your drinking. Keep in touch with someone at home who knows where you are and where you’re going.

Planning a Trip to Mexico:

Solo Female Travel in Mexico: Is it Safe?

• Two Weeks in Mexico: The BEST Yucatan Road Trip Itinerary

Places to Visit in the Yucatán and Mexico’s Caribbean Coast:

• Things to Do in Bacalar, Mexico, The Lake of Seven Colors
• Guide to Isla Holbox, Mexico’s Most Magical Island
• 50+ Best Cenotes in Mexico

Places to Visit in Inland Mexico:

• Best Mexico City Neighborhoods to Stay In
• 35+ Best Things to Do in Guanajuato, Mexico
• How to Visit Sumidero Canyon from San Cristobal de las Casas

Places to Visit on Mexico’s Pacific Coast:

• 24 Fabulous Things to Do in Sayulita, Mexico
• Guide to Bucerías, Mexico, an alternative to Puerto Vallarta

Oaxaca is waiting for you!

I just know that you’re going to fall in love with Oaxaca! It’s the kind of city that fills you with happiness — along with delicious tlayudas and memelas and tamales and mole.

Go enjoy your trip to Oaxaca — then come back and tell me all about it.

More on Mexico:

Two Weeks in Mexico: The Ultimate Itinerary

Ultimate Guide to 50+ Best Cenotes in Mexico

Destination Guides: Bacalar , Isla Holbox , Campeche

See all Mexico posts here .

Have you been to Oaxaca? I’d love to hear your travel tips!

19 Useful Things to Know Before Travelling to Oaxaca, Mexico

First time travelling to Oaxaca? Here are some handy Oaxaca travel tips to help you prepare!

It’s no secret that I have a huge crush on Oaxaca , Mexico. This city has stolen my heart twice, for its history, beauty, friendliness and deliciousness (the food in Oaxaca is the BEST!).

After two trips to this wonderful city, I’ve put together this guide on a few things I wish I’d known before travelling to Oaxaca . I’m hoping this helps you get ready to visit Oaxaca or even inspires you to put the city on your bucket list.

And if you need help planning your visit to Oaxaca, check out my Oaxaca itinerary . It’s an overview of the best things to do in Oaxaca in four days, and can be adapted if you have more or less time in Oaxaca.

So, without further ado, here’s my Oaxaca travel guide with some handy travel tips !

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)

1. The pronunciation can be tricky

You’ve probably seen the word “Oaxaca” on paper or a computer screen and gone, “huh?”.

Why so many vowels?! And what’s with that “x”?!

To help alleviate your confusion, it’s pronounced wa-HAH-kah. Rolls off the tongue once you know how to say it.

2. Oaxaca is both a state and a city

While Oaxaca is both a state and city , in this article I’m talking specifically about Oaxaca city , or Oaxaca de Juárez if you want to get formal.

Oaxaca state is the 10th largest in Mexico, with a population of almost 4 million. It’s in the southwest of the country.

While the state’s mountainous and rugged terrain does make journeys through Oaxaca a little longer and more challenging, it’s also been a contributing factor to the survival of many indigenous peoples and cultures (although of course the picture’s not all rosy). Traditions remain strong in Oaxaca, something that you’ll see throughout Oaxaca city.

Oaxaca city is the capital of the state and has a population of just over 300,000 people. Despite its size, it’s got a wonderful small-town vibe.

3. Plan on travelling to Oaxaca for 3 days  at a minimum

To truly experience everything that Oaxaca City and the surrounding region has to offer, plan to visit Oaxaca for  at least three days  – but you could easily spend a week here. Any less than that and you won’t get to enjoy the food and culture that make this city one of my favourites.

There really are an incredible amount of things to do in Oaxaca , and I don’t want you to miss out on any of it!

We spent 4 days in Oaxaca and it was perfect – enough time to see everything we needed to see (and eat!) but also plenty of time for relaxing in the zocalo and people-watching.

But, to be honest, I could easily spend a month in this city. (It’s on my cities-to-live-in-one-day list.)

4. Come hungry

If you’ve heard anything at all about Oaxaca, I bet it’s about the  food scene . Plan to visit with an empty stomach and an open mind because you need to try everything.

You can’t visit Oaxaca without trying ALL the food, so to start you off drooling, here are a few recommendations for  what to eat in Oaxaca :

• Tlayudas  – often called Oaxacan pizza, these crispy tortillas are topped with beans, tomato, lettuce, meat (usually pork or thin beef) and stringy  quesillo . They’re best shared with someone as they’re pretty big and messy to eat!
• Mole  – Oaxaca is known as the land of seven moles and you should try them all. If you’ve never heard of mole (pronounced MOH-lay) then you’re in for a treat. Mole is a traditional sauce that’s earthy and rich. In some moles, chocolate is a key ingredient, but not all. Mole is labour-intensive and some varieties can contain more than 30 or 40 individual ingredients. Make sure to try a Oaxaca mole when you visit (and you can even buy the paste to take home with you).
• Memelitas  – the perfect snack, these are fried or toasted rounds of  masa  (corn dough) topped with beans,  cotija  cheese and some kind of protein.
• Atole  – this hot, thick drink is made from masa mixed with water, cinnamon (and often other spices), vanilla and sugar, and it’s great for breakfast.
• Tostadas  – another great snack, these are tortillas that are toasted until crunchy and then topped with other ingredients.
• Pan de yema  – light bread that you dip into hot chocolate (sounds strange but it’s so, so good!).
• Tascalate  – another drink that’s made from roasted corn, chocolate, nuts, vanilla, sugar and achiote. You can drink it hot or cold, or with milk or water (I like it cold with milk!).

This list barely touches the surface of all the amazing  Oaxaca food  – there are so many more delicious things that you should try (including  chapulines  – fried grasshoppers – for the brave!).

Exploring the markets and street food carts are a good place to start trying Oaxacan food. Just follow the crowds and order what everyone else is eating and you’ll end up with something that makes your taste buds dance.

But, if it’s all too overwhelming and you’d like a local to show you what, where and how to eat, then  book a food tour  with Omar of  Oaxacking .

We spent four hours eating with him and it was just like hanging out with a mate who wants to show you around their home city. I’ve seriously never eaten so much food in four hours (a siesta was needed afterwards) but it was a great introduction to the tastes of Oaxaca.

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.

I’m putting together a post on where to eat in Oaxaca, but in the meantime here are some restaurant recommendations.

Where to eat breakfast in Oaxaca

The most important meal of the day! We loved starting the day off at these cafés:

• PAN:AM  – order the  chilaquiles  and a fresh juice, and don’t forget to get a  pain au chocolat  from the bread basket that the staff bring around.  Several locations around Oaxaca
• Itanoni  – famed for its focus on corn, everything in this family-run restaurant is made from the grain. The  tascalate  is delicious (I bought some to take home with me), as are the  tamales  and  tetelas . Go with a group and order one of everything so you can try it all! This was my favourite Oaxaca restaurant.  Av Belisario Domínguez 513
• Fonda Florecita  – a little further away from the Centro, this stall is inside the Mercado de la Merced. There’s no handwritten menu so ask the staff to speak slowly and tell you what they’re serving up that day. The  pan de yema  is particularly good.

Casual restaurants in Oaxaca

There are so many great restaurants in Oaxaca for lunch or dinner it can be hard to decide – believe me, I had a lot of FOMO during our time in Oaxaca. Here are a few recommendations to help you narrow down your choices:

• Cabuche  – the  enmoladas  (tortillas rolled up in mole) are mouthwatering. The tostadas change regularly so check the board for the day’s offering.  Miguel Hidalgo 1017
• Boulenc  – this bakery slash café sells sandwiches on bread baked in-house. If you can, take some of the homemade jams and pickled vegetables home with you.  Calle Porfirio Díaz 207
• Coronita  – go here for a sampler of 7 moles.  D íaz Ordaz 208

Fine dining restaurants in Oaxaca

One of the great things about a Oaxaca vacation is its affordability, so you can eat out at award-winning restaurants for a fraction of the price that you’d pay in other cities. Here are a few that we visited on our trip, all of which celebrate Oaxacan flavours and ingredients. I’d go back to any of these in a heartbeat:

• Criollo  – part-owned by Enrique Olvera, the man behind Pujol in Mexico City (currently number 12 of the 50 best restaurants in the world), the multi-course tasting menu will introduce you to quality Oaxacan ingredients and flavours. Make a reservation in advance.  Francisco I. Madero 129
• Casa Oaxaca  – overlooking the Templo de Santo Domingo, sitting out on the patio on an evening just adds to the delicious food. Reserve a table well ahead.  Calle de La Constitución 104A
• El Destilado  – owned by three Americans who fell in love with Oaxacan cuisine. Great vibe and service.  5 de Mayo 409

5. Days start slow

There’s really no need to get up early in Oaxaca, as there’s not a whole lot going on in the city before 9 or 10am. Some coffee shops and cafes don’t even open until 8am.

So, unless you’re starting out early on a long day trip, enjoy that sleep-in!

6. Oaxaca is affordable

When I visited Oaxaca, I constantly had to check my currency converter app to make sure I wasn’t miscalculating the price of food, drinks and goods. Depending on your exchange rate, many foreigners will find Oaxaca to be  very affordable .

However, I have noticed prices going up as more tourists visit and foreigners move to Oaxaca. I’m doing research for an upcoming return trip to Oaxaca and have seen prices jump.

Vendors in markets are usually willing to negotiate, but just because you can doesn’t mean you should. Pay the price that’s asked and what’s fair, as people are usually just trying to make a living.

7. Oaxaca is safe – even for solo female travellers

Mexico gets such a bad rap when it comes to safety, and it’s not always warranted. So it’s no surprise that a lot of people thinking about visiting Oaxaca ask an obvious question:  is Oaxaca safe to visit ?

The answer: yes,  I  felt very safe in Oaxaca.

On my first visit to Oaxaca I travelled solo, and my second time was with my husband. Both times I  never had any issues  and I  always felt safe , even when we walked around the city at nighttime (granted, we were only walking in the main touristy neighbourhoods).

Of course there’s crime in Oaxaca like in every part of the world. So, as always, it pays to  be aware of your surroundings  and  follow basic safety measures  when travelling to Oaxaca:

• Come armed with some basic Spanish
• Don’t wander around alone at night
• Only bring what you need – leave the valuables in your hotel room
• Don’t flash around your expensive camera and phones
• If something does happen, don’t fight back! Valuables can be replaced, your life cannot

8. Oaxaca is high up!

Oaxaca sits at 1,555 metres (5,102 feet) above sea level, so don’t be surprised to find yourself out of breath every so often (at least, that was my excuse!).

Some people who are prone to  altitude  sickness do have issues in Oaxaca, but for most people it won’t be an issue.

To avoid Oaxaca altitude sickness, take it easy and don’t go rushing around the city. Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol.

9. The city is so clean

I found the streets of Oaxaca to be so clean and well-maintained – more so than big cities around the world (here’s looking at you, New York City!). Do your part and keep it clean, too.

10. Mezcal is the drink of choice

While Mexico may be known for tequila, in Oaxaca, it’s  mezcal  that’s the drink of choice. This liquor is also made of agave but it’s far more complex, with a smoky flavour (read more in this article about what is mezcal ). Most mezcal is made in Oaxaca state.

Mezcal seems to be the trendy drink of choice of late, and I’ve seen mezcal bars popping up in cities around the world.

If you don’t know much about mezcal, then I recommend starting out at  La Mezcaloteca   (Reforma 506)  for a tasting. We let the staff know what flavours we liked and they customised the tasting to our preferences. You’ll need to make a reservation in advance.

There are also plenty of  mezcal tours  where you can visit a  palenque  (mezcal distillery) and learn about the production process. Omar of  Oaxacking  has tours that visit small-batch, family-owned  palenques , as does  Las Bugambilias , the tour company we signed up with. We did a full-day tour and visited three different producers on the outskirts of the city.

You’ll find that the cheaper tours are more focused on larger production facilities and are more about the drinking rather than the learning process, so choosing a tour really depends on your budget and what you’re looking to get out of the experience.

11. Oaxaca is centuries old

Like all of Mexico, Oaxaca’s  fascinating and tumultuous history  stretches back thousands and thousands of years.

While you’re in Oaxaca, make sure to learn more about this history. A good place to start is the  Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca  (Oaxaca Culture Museum). Housed in a former monastery, the corridors are filled with exhibits that trace the beginnings of Oaxaca through to modern times.

Spend half a day at  Monte Albán , which dates back to 500BC. This was the most important Zapotec site for more than a thousand years. There’s little signage throughout the site, unfortunately, so see if you can download some information to your phone, find a good guidebook or even hire a guide to show you around . In my opinion, you can’t miss this site on your Oaxaca trip.

Another interesting ruins site nearby Oaxaca is  Mitla . Around 45 kilometres from Oaxaca, it’s another easy day trip from Oaxaca.

12. Do your research to find the best Oaxaca tours

There are plenty of tours to surrounding areas of Oaxaca, but make sure to do your research as many of them are rushed.

On my first trip to Oaxaca I did a day trip to  Hierve el Agua , the incredible petrified waterfalls surrounded by mineral pools that you can swim in. It’s one of the  prettiest places to visit in Oaxaca , but when I went, I made the mistake of booking a cheap day trip and was rewarded with some low-quality mezcal tastings and only a short time at the actual waterfalls.

Find tours that are run by Oaxacans and that support local Oaxacan businesses and people. Tours that actually want to teach you about the area, culture and customs rather than rushing you through a tight itinerary. GuateGo  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.

13. Oaxacans love to celebrate

Like all Mexican cities and towns,  Oaxacan celebrations  are wild and a time when the whole  community  comes together.

Some of the  best festivals in Oaxaca  to plan your Oaxaca travel plans around are:

• Guelaguetza  – people from all across Oaxaca province swarm on Oaxaca City in a huge celebration of Oaxacan culture. There’s dancing, there’s music, there’s food (of course!) all in a huge spectacle over two consecutive Mondays at the end of July.
• Día de los Muertos  – despite what you’ve heard, this  isn’t  Mexican Halloween. During Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead), people come together to celebrate their deceased loved ones and make offerings. Día de los Muertos is late October/early November each year and the celebration goes over two days.
• Noche de Rábanos  – if you have any idea what rábanos means in English then you may be a little confused right now… a celebration of  radishes ? Yep, why not! This unusual festival has its origins in colonial times, and today you’ll see hundreds of displays of intricately carved radishes. An interesting one to add to your Mexico bucket list!

A dream of mine is to visit Oaxaca during Día de los Muertos. It’s been on my bucket list for a long time but I’m yet to make it a reality!

14. Pack a spare bag

Even if you’re not a fan of shopping, I  dare  you not to buy anything in Oaxaca.

I rarely buy souvenirs when I travel, but I just couldn’t help myself in Oaxaca, and ended up stuffing hand-stitched tops, a small rug, pottery, a straw handbag, books, cushion covers, too many bottles of mezcal and powdered hot chocolate into my suitcase.

The markets are a great place to check out for a huge range of items:

• Mercado 20 de Noviembre  and  Mercado Benito Juárez  are in the centre of town. While quite touristy, there’s also a huge variety on offer. Talk to the stallholders to find out which goods are made locally.
• The  Mercado de Artesanías ,  Huizache  and  La Casa de las Artesanías  are three good craft markets to explore. These complexes are good because you can do all your shopping in one place. Most also have information on where goods have come from and even who made it.

Sometimes you don’t even need to step into a shop to make a purchase – there are vendors right on the street waiting to sell you beautifully hand-stitched cushion covers and clothing.

15. The beaches are far away

The only downside to travelling to Oaxaca is that if you’re planning to combine a beach holiday with your city trip, think again. The beaches are quite a drive away.

They look deceptively close on a map, but in reality, because of the winding roads through the mountains, it’s a 3- to 4-hour journey by car or bus.

Having said that, if you’ve got the time, tack on a few days at the beach to your Oaxaca itinerary. I’ve spent quite a bit of time at Puerto Escondido, and you should also consider Huatulco, Puerto Ángel, Zipolite, Bahia de Tembo or Mazunte for some beach time. Check GuateGo for transfer options from Oaxaca to these beach towns.

16. There’s no bad time for travelling to Oaxaca

I don’t think there’s any  bad  time to visit, but the  best time to visit Oaxaca  is October to February when the weather is milder. April and May are the hottest months of the year.

The summer months (June to September) bring lots of rain, but it also means lush, green landscapes.

The busiest times of year are around the festivals and celebrations I’ve mentioned above, and the week of Easter. If you do plan a trip around one of these festivals, make sure to book well in advance as Oaxaca hotels do fill up quickly!

17. Travelling to Oaxaca is easy

Depending where you’re coming from, getting to Oaxaca is fairly easy.

Oaxaca has an international airport, Xoxocotlán International Airport (OAX). Direct flights land here from the U.S. and countries in Central and South America.

CHECK FLIGHTS TO OAXACA ONLINE HERE

For most international visitors planning Oaxaca travel, you’ll need to transit through Mexico City first. You could even stop in Mexico City for a few days (check out my  guide to Mexico City here ).

From the airport, it’s only a 25-minute drive to downtown. Book a shared taxi (van) at the airport. These drop passengers off at their hotels around the area (which means it can take a little longer than 25 minutes). Alternatively,  GuateGo  offers private transfers direct to your hotel, which will save you a tonne of time.

There are plenty of buses and domestic flights to Oaxaca from Mexico City and other major cities around Mexico.

18. Where to stay in Oaxaca

Oaxaca has a booming tourism industry, so there are plenty of hotels in the city. Here are a few recommendations for visiting Oaxaca:

• Hotel Siglo XVII  – this is where we stayed when we were last in Oaxaca. It’s in the city centre so it’s close to the main Oaxaca attractions. The staff are friendly and the on-site breakfast is great.  Check the latest rates and book your stay with Booking.com or Expedia
• Flavia Hotel – luxury hotel with spa services and an infinity pool overlooking the city. Check rates and availability online with Expedia
• 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

19. Pack travel insurance

Oaxaca is pretty safe, but if I’m travelling internationally, I always arrange travel insurance. Start your search for travel insurance providers on Travel Insurance Master , where you can compare providers and policies.

Wrap up: Oaxaca travel tips

Oaxaca is one of my absolute favourite cities in the entire world. It has a beautiful blend of culture, food and nature and is so easy to visit. Hopefully these Oaxaca travel tips have helped you plan your first – but probably not last! – visit here.

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

Are you planning on traveling to Oaxaca? Is there anything else you need to know before you visit? Drop your questions in the comments section below.

Related posts

Before you go… you might like these Mexico travel articles.

• 4 Days in Oaxaca Itinerary: 25+ Best Things To Do
• 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.
• 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.

6 thoughts on “19 Useful Things to Know Before Travelling to Oaxaca, Mexico”

Hi Rebecca,

We are wanting to travel from uk to oaxaca, spend 3/4 days.. but we do wish to travel to the coast line to stay for 4/5 days.. really have no idea how we piece that together, or where on the coast line would be the absolute best ?

Thank you! I am thinking of solo traveling this Oct/Nov. Your blog is super helpful.

Enjoy!! It’s such an amazing city, and I always felt very safe. If you have any more questions, just let me know.

Hi Rebecca! Thank you for this post/blog…I am planning to visit Oaxaca next winter and explore if this could be a destination I could enjoy going back to escape from my Montreal winter each year. I want to go for one month for now and am a woman alone. Any suggestion for long term stay?

Oh Claudette, I’m jealous! I’d love to spend a month in Oaxaca. I don’t have any recommendations for a long-term stay, but I’d start with Airbnb or VRBO and see what properties they have there and how long you can rent for. Having travelled there as a solo female before (my first trip to Oaxaca), I felt very safe. Enjoy!!

I’m from Oaxaca. I’m willing to help if you need any advise. You can find me in IG Leticia.djarquin

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How to Spend 4 Days in Oaxaca City, Mexico: The Perfect Oaxaca Itinerary

Thanks for reading! If you enjoy this post, please join my FREE Mexico Travel 101 course for even more Mexico travel insights, and follow me on Facebook , Twitter , and Instagram !

Planning a trip to Oaxaca, Mexico? This Oaxaca itinerary will help you plan the perfect trip to this incredible city.

Editor’s Note: This is a guest post by Shelley of Travel Mexico Solo . Shelley spent 4 months living in Oaxaca and she has tons of valuable tips to share with us!

This post may contain affiliate links. Read my  Disclosure  &  Privacy  policies for more detail.

Planning to spend 4 days in Oaxaca City?

You won’t regret it! This really is one of Mexico’s most amazing destinations . It’s also one of the best destinations for  solo travel in Mexico!

The city of Oaxaca (officially known as Oaxaca de Juárez) is not only full of gorgeous colonial architecture, but it’s also one of the foodie capitals of Mexico. Plus, it has three UNESCO World Heritage sites, beautiful nature and artist communities, a fantastic  Day of the Dead  festival, and much more.

Oaxaca City encompasses all the things people imagine Mexico to be! From the amazing Mexican food to colorful architecture, it’s quite obvious why Oaxaca sits high atop so many  travel bucket lists.

Let’s take a look at the ultimate four-day itinerary for all of the best things to do in Oaxaca City!

Where is Oaxaca located?

Oaxaca City is located in the middle of the state of Oaxaca, in Southern Mexico. It’s approximately 280 miles southeast of Mexico City and 137 miles north of Puerto Escondido. 

How do you get to Oaxaca?

You can fly to Oaxaca by booking a flight to Oaxaca Xoxocotlan International Airport (OAX), which is served by various airlines such as American Airlines, Aeroméxico, and Volaris.

Another popular way to reach Oaxaca is by bus. You can take an  ADO bus from Mexico City to Oaxaca  in approximately 7 hours. I recommend springing for the GL or Platino service level for the most comfortable ride.

The sites  BookAway  and  Busbud  are the best way to plan bus travel to Oaxaca from other cities in Mexico.

Wondering about the safest way to get from the airport to your hotel? Use this service to book affordable airport transfers in Mexico.

What’s the best time to visit Oaxaca?

Oaxaca has a subtropical climate, meaning it is pretty mild all year round. However, the city’s high elevation, approximately 5,000 feet above sea level, means there are wide temperature fluctuations between day and night. 

The primary seasons in Oaxaca are dry and wet.

The rainy season lasts from May through October and is also the hottest time of the year. The hottest months of the year are April and May, with average highs of 85-87°F (29-30°C) and average lows of 54-58°F (12-14°C).

The dry season coincides with winter and spring, stretching from November through May.  Temperatures are mild, with cool nights and limited precipitation. The coolest months are December and January, with average highs of 78°F (25°C) and average lows of 48°F (9°C).

Thanks to its mild climate, Oaxaca is wonderful to visit at any time of year. 

There are two major events each year in Oaxaca that may influence your decision about when to visit:

• Guelaguetza Festival – This arts festival takes place over two weekends in July every year and is a spectacle of music, dance, indigenous culture, and so much more. It’s an incredible spectacle and floods the city with visitors from all over Mexico and beyond. 
• Día de Muertos takes place on November 1st and 2nd each year, and Oaxaca City is one of the most popular places for travelers to experience the festivities. The city becomes filled with incredible decorations in the weeks leading up to the holiday, and there are all kinds of cool events and activities to partake in. If you plan to visit Oaxaca during Día de Muertos, you need to book your accommodation a year in advance (no joke!). 

Stay connected in Mexico with this affordable eSIM!

How long do you need in Oaxaca?

Oaxaca is the type of city where you’ll never run out of things to do. Even after you see all the top attractions and browse all the markets, you won’t be sick of sampling the delicious food and soaking up the delightful atmosphere. 

Four days is the absolute minimum one should spend in Oaxaca to hit the highlights , but you could easily spend a few weeks or more… though, it might be risky– you won’t want to leave!

Traveling soon? Don’t forget to buy travel insurance for Mexico. Insurance gives you peace of mind, knowing you can get the help you need if anything goes wrong. SafetyWing is the provider that I recommend.

Day 1: Centro Historico: Mercados, Zocalo, Templo de Santo Domingo, Botanical Garden

The first day of this Oaxaca City itinerary is all about getting to know the city itself. The entire downtown is a  UNESCO World Heritage Site , and there’s no shortage of attractions to hold your attention.

First, let’s talk about where and what to eat in Oaxaca City

Oaxaca City, like much of Mexico, has a strong street food culture. While strolling around, don’t pass up the opportunity to sample one of Mexico’s delicacies —  chapulines.  These are small, dried grasshoppers that you’ll be served in a bag. You can eat them just like nuts or popcorn!

If grasshoppers aren’t quite your thing,  head to Oaxaca City’s  mercados  (local markets) to sample some other local cuisine that doesn’t feature insects.

Snack your way through the markets

Mercado 20 de Noviembre  functions more like a food hall than a traditional market, but that makes it the perfect to eat. For another Mexican market experience that offers both food  and  shopping, Mercado Benito Juárez is your place.

While in the  mercados , try these Oaxacan specialties:  tlayudas  (AKA Mexican pizza),  tamales oaxaquenos  (tamales cooked in a banana leaf), and Oaxaca’s delicious string cheese,  quesillo .

Those with a sweet tooth can seek out  nieves , an ice cream/sorbet hybrid, and  tejate .  Tejate  is an ancient beverage made with chocolate and corn and served cold. Though this flavor combination may sound unappetizing, this tasty drink is hundreds of years old and has stood the test of time.

Sample Oaxaca’s incredible culinary offerings on this market tour , which highlights some of the city’s most iconic flavors!

Sightseeing in Oaxaca’s centro histórico

After eating, head to the  zocalo  (main square) in Oaxaca’s historic center to see the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption, the largest cathedral in the city.  The entire surrounding area, the Plaza de la Constitución, is a lively place to spend some time and people-watch.

Next, head to the Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzmán, a 16th-century Spanish Baroque church. While on the grounds, don’t miss the Oaxacan Culture Museum and Jardín Etnobotánico de Oaxaca (Oaxaca Botanical Gardens).

This 2.5-acre garden showcases Oaxaca’s native flora and fauna, with hundreds of the state’s native species on display. Note that because of the garden’s delicate ecosystem, you can only enter on a guided tour. They are  offered in English  three times a week for 100 pesos (about $5 USD) per person.

One of the best places to take a leisurely stroll is the pedestrian-only Calle de Macedonia Alcala.  This colorful thoroughfare is lined with shops, art galleries, cafes, bars, restaurants, and more.

Feast on Oaxaca’s famous mole

If you’re getting hungry again, you’re going to find somewhere around here where you can get Oaxaca’s most famous dish,  mole . Mole is both a marinade and a sauce, made with its own unique combination of spices, nuts, fruits, and other ingredients. 

There are seven types of  mole ; the most famous being  mole negro  (black mole), which gets its color from chocolate. Many restaurants will serve a few types of  mole , though usually not all seven.

Head to any of these Oaxaca restaurants to sample their  moles :  Las Quince Letras, Los Danzantes, and Cabuche. One of the restaurants famous for serving all seven types is La Casa de la Abuela, located in the Zocalo.

Want to learn about the process of making mole? Try a cooking class! This hands-on cooking class will teach you how to make Oaxacan specialties from scratch!

Day 2: Hierve el Agua, Mezcaloteca, Enjoy a Nice Dinner

For today’s excursion, you will take part in one of the most popular day trips from Oaxaca…

Hierve el Agua

Hierve el Agua translates to “boiling water,” and while there’s not actually boiling water at this site, there are thermal pools to soak in.

There’s actually quite a bit to do at Hierve el Agua, one of Oaxaca’s most photographed landmarks, which is why it deserves one whole day of your itinerary! Also, it’s located about an hour outside of the city, so plan for a bit of travel time.

As one of Oaxaca’s most famous attractions, you can imagine Hierve el Agua gets quite crowded. If you want to get any of those coveted people-less photos, head there early. The crowds are in full swing by about 9 am-10 am.

Besides the beautiful mineral pools, Hierve el Agua’s other famous site is its “waterfall.”  The quotes around “waterfall” are intentional because this isn’t really a waterfall, though it does look like one.

The falling water effect was created over time as mineral-laden water dripped and fell over the side of a cliff. Over time, the minerals in this water began to accumulate, and now it looks like there’s a constantly flowing cascade of water. In reality, it’s just mineral residue! 

Be sure to wear your hiking shoes/sneakers, as you’ll want to do the full hike down as close as possible to this cliff. There’s a shorter hike, but it’s worth it to do the full thing. In total, factor in about 3-4 hours for this moderate hike.

After hiking back to the top, where the mineral pools are, you can relax by swimming and soaking in them! If your muscles hurt at all after the hike, the water should help.

Looking for the best things to do in Mexico? This is my favorite platform for booking tours!

In the evening…

After heading back to Oaxaca City and showering, you might want to pamper yourself with a nice dinner or even a night out to sample some mezcal.

For a nice dinner and some fine dining, head to Oaxaca’s famed Casa Oaxaca . If you can, opt for one of the rooftop tables. Some other great restaurant options include El Destilado, Criollo, or Catedral Restaurant.

If you’re looking to learn about —  and drink  — some artisanal mezcals, consider visiting Mezcaloteca.

This establishment is a combo of a tasting room and mezcal school and provides the perfect place to learn about Oaxaca’s beloved adult beverage, mezcal.  Note :  Reservations are required .

Day 3: Mitla, El Rey de Matatlán, El Árbol de Tule, Teotitlán del Valle

Start Day 3 of your Oaxaca itinerary in the  pueblo mágico  (magic town) of Mitla.

Just what is a magic town, you might be wondering? Mexico’s Secretary of Tourism awards the prestigious designation of “ pueblo mágico ” to certain small towns in the country with characteristics including exceptional natural beauty, deep historical significance, and unique cultural traditions. It’s a similar idea to the UNESCO World Heritage designation, but pueblos magicos are specific to Mexico!

Mitla, pueblo mágico

Mitla is certainly unique as far as Mexican pre-Hispanic archaeological sites go. Rather than a complex of pyramids and temples, Mitla is a group of shorter buildings with elaborate, intricate carved stone in a series of geometric designs.

In past centuries, Mitla was a holy burial site for the native Zapotec and Mixtec peoples of Oaxaca. The word  mitla  is derived from the Aztec word  mictlán , meaning “underworld” or “place of the dead.”

Mitla is located about an hour south of Oaxaca City, so after spending some time exploring, hit the road back — this time with some stops along the way.

Want to rent a car during your trip? Use this platform to find the best rates!

El Rey de Matatlán

The first stop on the way back to Oaxaca City will take you to El Rey de Matatlán.

At this distillery, you’ll get to see the whole mezcal farm-to-table process! Take the mezcal tour to get a better understanding of everything from the agave harvest to the distillation process. At the end, you’ll get to taste the final product.

From here, head to the small town of Teotitlan del Valle. Many of the towns and villages surrounding Oaxaca City are famous for just one craft per town. Teotitlan del Valle is famous for perhaps Oaxaca’s most famous craft: the  tapete , or handweaving Zapotec rug.

Many rug producers allow you to tour their facility to see the whole process, from hand-dying the wool to seeing the weaving process in action by master rug artisans.

Árbol del Tule

Make sure there’s still some sunlight for the final stop in the town of Santa María del Tule to see the  Árbol del Tule , the tree of enlightenment. This 2,000-year-old Montezuma cypress tree holds the world’s record of the biggest trunk diameter of any tree on Earth, at an astounding 46 feet.

With a diameter of this size, it takes at least 30 people with clasped hands to wrap all the way around it! The Árbol del Tule is the largest tree in Mexico and the most stout tree on Earth.

Day 4: Monte Albán, San Bartolo Coyotepec, San Martín Tilcajete

There are three total UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Oaxaca state: the Prehistoric Caves of Yagul, Downtown Oaxaca City, and the archeological site of Monte Albán. Today, you’ll be exploring Monte Albán!

Monte Alban archaeological site

Located only about 30 minutes from downtown, Monte Albán is one of the most visited and most important  archeological sites  in both Oaxaca AND Mexico. Head there as early as you can to beat the crowds and the heat. 

As with many Mexican archaeological sites, most of Monte Alban’s trees have been cleared to make it easier for archeologists to study the site. While this works for them, it also means there’s a serious lack of shade. Be sure to wear  sunscreen  and a  hat , bring a  reusable water bottle , and arrive early to beat the crowds and the midday sun. 

If you get there early, you can also climb all the structures before the harsh midday sun beats down from overhead. 

From the higher points on the Monte Albán grounds, you’ll get some beautiful views of Oaxaca City and the Oaxaca Valley because this site is in the mountains above the city.

After exploring Monte Alban, head to a few more of Oaxaca’s art towns to get some authentic souvenirs to take home with you.

Want to make the most of your Monte Alban visit? Go with a tour group . Learn about the history of the site and those who inhabited it as you look around!

San Bartolo Coyotepec

The first town outside of the site is San Bartolo Coyotepec. This small  pueblo  is known for its  barro negro , or black clay pottery.

In the 1950s, Doña Rosa Real Mateo de Nieto from San Bartolo Coyotepec devised a way to put a black metallic sheen onto the pottery by polishing it before firing. All these years later, her technique is still used and helped put her  pueblo  on the map. 

San Martín Tilcajete

The last art town is the fantastical land of Oaxaca’s  alebrijes , San Martín Tilcajete.

What is an  alebrije ?

They are wood carvings of colorful, fantastical creatures, and one of the most famous forms of Mexican folk art.  Alebrijes  are often combinations of two or more animals that, when combined, serve as a type of spirit guide.

Alebrijes  are also commonly associated with Mexico’s Dia de Muertos (Day of the Dead) holiday celebration. In fact, do you remember the 2017 Pixar movie  Coco ? There were several  alebrijes  in that movie, guiding Coco through the underworld during Day of the Dead.

First created by Mexican artist Pedro Linares who names these creatures  alebrijes , his artistic legacy lives on in San Martín Tilcajete to this day. Head to some of the stores in this  pueblo  to get your own, and often see local artisans making them!

Ready to book your flights to Mexico? Use this tool to find the cheapest airfare!

Where to Stay in Oaxaca

For your convenience, I recommend staying in Oaxaca’s Centro Historico. From here, you’ll be able to walk to many of the city’s main attractions, have access to tons of awesome restaurants, and transportation will be easy to coordinate. Here are a few hotels that caught my eye:

• NaNa Vida Hotel : This gorgeous hotel offers spacious rooms, beautifully appointed with regional art and tapestries. There is a bar, restaurant, business center, and peaceful garden on-site.
• Co404 Coliving : Whether you’re a nomad or simply a solo traveler in search of community, this co-living space offers comfortable accommodation and a strong community feel. They have a great co-working space, so it’s easy to get work done if you need to.
• AYOOK : Located within an 11-minute walk of downtown Oaxaca, this hotel offers beautiful, air-conditioned rooms and complimentary breakfast. There is also a garden and a terrace for guests to enjoy.
• La Betulia Bed and Breakfast : This beautiful bed and breakfast offers a spacious garden and a furnished patio so guests can enjoy the outdoor space. The rooms are simple, but they have everything you need: a bed, nightstand, wardrobe, and a private bathroom. Breakfast is included. Reviewers rave about the kind staff and how safe they felt at this property.

Oaxaca Travel FAQs

Is oaxaca worth visiting.

Yes, absolutely!  Oaxaca is one of Mexico’s most alluring destinations. Between its food scene, colorful and lively streets, beautiful natural landscape, and rich indigenous culture

Four or five days is the absolute minimum one should spend in Oaxaca to hit the highlights, but you could easily spend much longer. A week is not too long in Oaxaca.

Do I need to rent a car in Oaxaca?

You don’t need a rental car to get around in Oaxaca. Between tours, public transportation, and taxis, you’ll have no problem seeing all the highlights without renting a vehicle.

However, if you’re traveling in a group,  renting a car  may be more economical and convenient. It’s also a great way to reach off-the-beaten-path destinations and maintain control of your schedule.

Is Oaxaca safe?

Oaxaca is generally safe for solo travelers, though I have heard of instances of petty theft and armed robberies from members of my  Facebook group . 

I don’t include that to alarm you but rather to acknowledge that, like anywhere in the world, it’s important to use common sense and be safety-conscious when you’re out and about in Oaxaca.

Follow these general  Mexico safety tips  anywhere you go.

Should I spend more time in Oaxaca or Mexico City?

Ultimately, it depends on your interests. Oaxaca has a ton of fun things to do, and the ambiance is magical, too.

But there’s absolutely no way you could run out of things to do in Mexico City … ever…

If you prefer big city energy and a faster pace of life, maybe prioritize Mexico City, but if you love a slower pace and Oaxaca’s old-world charm, extend your Oaxaca itinerary.

Is Oaxaca a walkable city?

Absolutely ! The terrain is quite flat, and the city is more pedestrian-friendly than many other places in Mexico. If you choose a central accommodation, you’ll be able to walk to the main sights within the city center.

Can I wear shorts in Oaxaca?

Yes ! You can wear shorts anywhere you want in Mexico.

You may notice locals wearing mostly pants, but that’s because they are more accustomed to the climate, and they have to go to work and likely aren’t permitted to wear shorts at their place of work.

But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t wear them. Oaxaca has a mild climate with warm days and cool evenings, so wear whatever you’ll be most comfortable in.

Mexico Travel Planning Resources

🌡️ Do I need travel insurance?

Yes! Healthcare in Mexico is affordable for minor ailments, but travel insurance will give you peace of mind if an emergency arises. Plus, you can add coverage for trip interruption, theft, etc. Get a quote from SafetyWing . 

🏨 What’s the best way to find accommodation in Mexico?

I use a mix of Booking, Airbnb, and Hostelworld. 

Booking.com  is awesome for booking hotels and resorts,  Hostelworld  is great for hostels, and  Airbnb  specializes in apartment rentals, making it a great place to find long-term stays.

💸 How should I exchange money in Mexico?

Use local ATMS to withdraw cash. US travelers should open a Charles Schwab bank account because they’ll refund ATM fees at the end of the month.

Travelers from outside the US should open a Wise account to secure the best currency exchange rates. 

📱 Where can I buy a local SIM card in Mexico?

Pick up a Telcel SIM card at any convenience store. Or, buy an Airalo eSIM online so you’re connected as soon as you land. 

🗣️ Do I need to speak Spanish in Mexico?

No, but it definitely helps you feel more confident and connected. 

RocketSpanish is my favorite program for learning the foundations of the language. If you’re more focused on improving your conversation skills, hire a tutor through iTalki to prep for your trip. 

✈️ What’s the best way to find affordable flights?

I use Skyscanner because it makes it easy to compare rates across different travel days. 

🚖 How do I find a safe airport transfer?

I recommend GetTransfer for airport transfers anywhere in Mexico. 

🚗 What’s the best way to find rental cars in Mexico?

I recommend Discover Cars because they aggregate prices across rental car companies, making it easy to find competitive rates. 

🚐 How do I book bus tickets online in Mexico?

Plan your routes with Rome2Rio , and book your tickets with Busbud — the site is in English and takes foreign credit cards. (Read more here)

🤿 How do I find cool activities and tours in Mexico?

I recommend Viator and Get Your Guide . Viator usually has more options, but it’s worth comparing offerings across both platforms. 

🇲🇽 How can I experience Mexico like a local?

Solo female travelers can hire a local female guide through Greether . Greeters will tailor tours based on your interests— it’s basically like experiencing a destination with a local bestie!

🧳 What’s the best luggage for Mexico?

Unless you’re staying at a resort, a travel pack is recommended. I’ve used this one from Osprey for the last 8+ years. 

👯‍♀️ How do I connect with fellow travelers in Mexico?

Join my Female Travelers in Mexico Facebook group , a supportive community of fellow Mexico travel enthusiasts, where you can find answers to all your travel questions!

Will you use this Oaxaca City itinerary to plan your trip? Which of the activities listed here has piqued your interest?

Shelley is a former Miami travel magazine editor who ditched the office for the world! After traveling solo to 14 states in Mexico, she decided to live in Mérida. Shelley created the Travel Mexico Solo blog and Dream To Destination podcast to help women cross Solo Travel & Mexico Travel off their bucket list. Continue the conversation with her on Facebook or Instagram !

Janine is a full-time content writer and travel blogger. In 2017 she and her cat moved from Los Angeles to Mexico and never looked back. Now, she writes in-depth articles to help women travel Mexico safely and confidently. Connect with her on Instagram.

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What is the best time for weather on Oaxaca

It depends what types of weather patterns you want to avoid. The summer is the rainy season, so if you want to miss that, I would avoid visiting between May and August. Spring and Fall are probably the most comfortable in terms of temperature, but you can have a great visit at any time of the year. This page has more climate data to give you a more detailed look at patterns and fluctuations: https://www.climatestotravel.com/climate/mexico/oaxaca

What is the best form of transportation for visiting the small towns like San Martín Tilcajete and San San Bartolo Coyotepec?

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THE 5 BEST Oaxaca Upcoming Concerts & Shows

Concerts & shows in oaxaca.

• Blues Clubs & Bars
• Dinner Theaters
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Jardin Etnobotanico de Oaxaca
• Hierve el Agua
• Coyote Aventuras
• Oaxacool tours & experiences
• Mexico Foodie Tours
• Museo-Taller "El Tallador de Sueños"
• Zona Arqueológica de Mitla
• A piece of Oaxaca
• Zona Arqueológica de Monte Albán
• Santa María de la Asunción Tlacolula
• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Tour to Hierve el Agua and Mezcal Distillery (Small groups)

2. Scenic Bike Ride, Mountains of Oaxaca

3. Exclusive: Premium Mezcal, Hierve el Agua, Textiles & Lunch

4. A Piece Of Oaxaca: Guided Tour with Crafts Elaboration

5. Guided Hiking in Pueblos Mancomunados on Sierra Norte

6. Hiking in the Enchanted Forest of Ixtepeji with Rescue Dogs

7. Private: Hierve El Agua, Mitla, Mezcal and Lunch in Maguey Fields

8. Half-Day Tour to Monte Albán and Alebrijes Workshop Museum

What travelers are saying.

• Teatro Macedonio de Alcalá
• Ballet Folklorico de Oaxaca
• Microenormous Immersive Theater
• Cozana: Boutique Destilados Oaxaca y Piano Bar
• Funky Cat Blues & Bar

Top things to do in the culturally rich Oaxaca City

Mar 10, 2022 • 8 min read

The epic Guelaguetza festival every July is one of Oaxaca’s most exciting annual traditions © Kim Steele / Getty Images

Few regions in Mexico conjure up as many superlatives as Oaxaca .

The state and capital city of the same name are home to arguably the country’s best regional cuisine, an unparalleled arts-and-crafts scene, the finest mezcal in the land and (dare we say) some of the nation’s most exciting cultural events and community-tourism ventures. While understanding no list could do such a rich place justice, here are our picks for the top things to do in Oaxaca.

Gaze at Monte Albán’s ruins with a view

Rising 1300ft from the valley floor and affording eye-popping views over the city and beyond, the ancient Zapotec ruins at Monte Albán have deservedly landed them on just about any Oaxaca must-do list. You’ll understand why when you behold the mysterious architecture set against the vista-rich backdrop.

Sure, Oaxaca’s most popular archaeological site feels busy at times, especially on weekends – but an early-morning visit allows you to contemplate its striking temples and ceremonial platforms in all their glory, and without the tour-bus crowds.

Hike amid the Pueblos Mancomunados’ mesmerizing mountain landscapes

The Pueblos Mancomunados (Commonwealth of Villages), a cluster of eight remote communities scattered among a biodiverse cloud forest, are linked by some 60 miles of trails that lead to canyons, caves and cascading waterfalls.

In addition to the absorbing wilderness experiences, a day trip or multi-day hike here provides an up-close look at Zapotec life. In hospitable mountain communities, you can look forward to cabin rentals and roadside diners whipping up hearty Oaxacan comfort food such as memelas (handmade corn tortilla snacks) topped with wild mushrooms.

Tap into the underground art scene

The city’s provocative street art has long been instrumental in shaping ideas around some of the most important social and political issues facing Oaxaca, and the counterculture movement remains very much alive and kicking.

As you wander downtown amid the stunning colonial architecture you’ll come across a slew of satirical graffiti, surreal murals and indie art collectives that make stencils, graphic t-shirts and cutting-edge crafts. Graphic-arts gallery Espacio Zapata is a great place to get dialed in on the latest exhibitions, workshops and concerts. Explore the scene on your own or hook up with a street-art tour .

Embrace Day of the Dead

With its deeply rooted pre-Hispanic traditions, Oaxaca makes for one of the most colorful Día de Muertos (Day of the Dead) experiences in Mexico. Come November 1 and 2, markets throughout the city sell fresh-baked pan de muerto (a seasonal pan dulce). Vivid orange-and-purple altars pop up on public squares. Soulful parades roll through downtown’s cobbled streets.

For a more classic take on Day of the Dead, the colorful celebration in nearby San Agustín Etla (11 miles northwest of the city) exudes a laid-back small-town vibe. Or visit the famed candlelit cemeteries in Santa Cruz Xoxocotlán (3 miles south of Oaxaca) and – at a respectful distance –  watch families leave offerings to their deceased loved ones.

Escape to remote Mixtec village Santiago Apoala

Leave the hectic city behind and unwind in the majestic mountains of Santiago Apoala, a remote Mixtec village several hours north of the city. Community tour operator Ecoturismo Comunal Yutsa To’on rents rustic riverside cabins and runs guided hikes to a glorious 200-foot waterfall amid deep canyons dotted with ancient rock carvings.

The bumpy dirt road from Asunción Nochixtlán allows you to get off the beaten path as it winds past tiny mountain towns with panoramas of the rugged Mixtec region.

Sip artisanal mezcal

Even if you’re not much of a drinker, it's always intoxicating to take a deep dive into the wonderful world of mezcal (a distilled alcoholic agave drink). A road trip to mezcal country in nearby Santiago Matatlán lets you see the production process at family-run distilleries, then sample the final product. Keep in mind that since mezcal is potent stuff, we recommend leaving the driving to someone else – perhaps arranged by a tour company such as Experience Agave .

In the city, mezcalerías and tasting rooms such as Mezcaloteca provide more details about the production techniques and various agave plants used to make Oaxaca’s signature spirit. In fact, much of Oaxaca’s nightlife centers around these intimate, character-filled mezcal joints.

Hit the highway toward Mitla

For a classic Oaxacan road trip, Hwy 190 heading east takes you to the world’s fattest tree in El Tule , the famous weaving town of Teotitlán del Valle , the sophisticated Zapotec ruins of Mitla and mezcal region Santiago Matatlán.

The route along a traffic-free, two-lane highway cuts through scenic valley lands. If you have time, take a 14-mile detour to Hierve el Agua for a dip in spectacular cliffside mineral springs at Hierve el Agua  – but be forewarned that the sight often closes due to administrative conflicts.    

Brush up on history at Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca

If you only have time to visit one museum while in Oaxaca, make it this gem. Granted, you’ll need at least a couple of hours to explore the 14 halls housed in the museum’s sprawling campus – a former monastery – but the impressive architecture is worth the price of admission alone.

Displays in the Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca are devoted to regional history and culture, from the pre-Hispanic era to present day. In Room III, don't miss the intriguing treasure trove of 14th-century Mixtec artifacts discovered at Monte Albán in 1932, which includes an ancient skull encrusted with a turquoise mosaic.

Whoop it up at Guelaguetza fest

An annual indigenous cultural event meaning “offering” in Zapotec, Guelaguetza is one of Oaxaca’s most important annual fiestas. The epic July shindig, held at the scenic open-air Auditorio Guelaguetza , showcases Oaxaca’s proud tradition of folkloric dance and music. The celebration also features art exhibits, a mezcal fair and lively downtown concerts and parades.

Smaller versions of Guelaguetza take place throughout Oaxaca, including festivals in the outlying towns of Tlacolula and Atzompa.

Eat like a local in the mercados

Grasshoppers, anyone? Look for these crunchy little buggers (known in Spanish as  chapulines ) at the iconic Mercado 20 de Noviembre . The busy market is also revered for its pasillo de humo , a smoky passage where tasajo (beef) and cecina enchilada (chili-coated pork) are grilled for your taco-eating pleasure.

For breakfast, greet the new day at Fonda Florecita in the less-visited Mercado de la Merced and try the zesty salsa de queso (cheese in spicy tomato sauce) along with a chocolate atole (a sweet corn-based drink). Both markets are easy on the wallet and quintessentially Oaxaqueño.

Cycle through history

With some 1200 historic monuments, Oaxaca’s Centro Histórico richly deserves its Unesco World Heritage badge. The plethora of landmarks includes splendid baroque churches and palatial colonial buildings that can all be visited on foot. But you’ll cover much more ground and a real scope for all the history on two wheels. Mundo Ceiba rents bikes and also organizes the Paseo Nocturno, a communal nighttime ride along the cobbled streets of downtown.

To pedal around in the countryside, book a tour with Mexican Olympic cyclist Pedro Martínez , who leads groups to a lovely cave and swimmable river in the heart of mezcal territory. 

Shop for traditional crafts

Oaxaca produces some of the highest-quality folk art in the nation, and even the world. Stores and galleries, many along Calle Alcalá , sell everything from polished barro negro (black pottery) and alebrijes (brightly painted animal sculptures) to hand-woven rugs and crafty palm-leaf baskets. 

Whenever possible, it’s always best to go straight to the source. Purchases in weaving village Teotitlán del Valle , ceramics town San Bartolo Coyotepec and alebrije capital San Martín Tilcajete guarantee that the money goes straight to the artisans. Plus, it’s always fascinating watching them work their magic. 

Delight in savory moles

Nothing says Oaxaca quite like its multicolored moles (rich nut-, chili- and spice-based sauces), and the depth and variety of the iconic dish here is downright impressive. Dig into a complex black or red mole entrée at Casa Oaxaca or enjoy simple yet delectable mole tamales at a popular downtown street stall .

To learn how to make mole yourself, take a cooking class with the culinary mavens at El Sabor Zapateco in nearby Teotitlán del Valle.

Day-trip to San Agustín Etla

Sitting pretty about 11 miles northwest of Oaxaca, this small town at the foothills of the Sierra Madre mountains provides a welcome respite from the bustling city. Most people go for the first-rate art exhibits and concerts held at the Centro de las Artes de San Agustín , a textile factory-turned-ecological arts center that was spearheaded by renowned Oaxacan painter Francisco Toledo. Others visit for the gorgeous hiking along an old aqueduct trail that rises up into the mountains, or for a low-key Day of the Dead celebration (as mentioned above).

Soak up the coffee culture

The highlands of Oaxaca produce some of the richest beans in the world, so it should come as no surprise that cafes in the capital take their coffee seriously. Standouts such as Cafébre and Cafe Nuevo Mundo have made a name for themselves with their superior brews, while bohemian bakery and cafe Boulenc  encourages patrons to linger over an almond croissant and artfully prepared cappuccino.

If you’re heading toward the Pacific coast, make it a point to stop in the sublime mountain town of Pluma Hidalgo for the ultimate coffee lover’s getaway .

You might also like: Your Oaxaca road trip starts here: 5 ways to explore Mexican culture    The quest to revive Oaxaca’s centuries-old mountain trails one hike at a time    The best places to visit in Mexico for culture, cuisine and cenotes

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For a taste of Mexico this summer, sow tangy tomatillos this spring

These delicious fruits like to ramble freely and thrive in a warm greenhouse

L ast summer, I had a text from a friend who was visiting Oaxaca in Mexico. “Can you get these in the UK?” she asked, with a link to a vegetable she’d just tasted. I enthusiastically responded with a photograph of the green orbs that were piled high in the crate in front of me. “Yes! You can get tomatillos here!”

They weren’t imported from Latin America but growing on the farm in East Sussex where I work. This golf ball-sized fruit with light-green skin, encased in papery jackets has a tart, refreshing flavour and succulent texture. By that point (mid August), we were busy producing more than we could keep up with. I did my best to eat as many as I could and am fairly certain that I’ll be coveting their tangy flavour every summer from now on.

Tomatillos ( Physalis philadelphica ) can be started as early as March and sown until early May. Nurture their seedlings as you would tomato ones, potting them on as they grow until you’re as certain as possible that the last frost has passed. They can be grown outdoors in the UK but do need a lot of sun and a sheltered spot to do well.

Although tomatillos are a little hardier than their tomato cousins, the plants themselves aren’t especially sturdy, so an exposed, windy spot would be disruptive for them. They thrive when grown with the added warmth and protection of a polytunnel or greenhouse (and this is likely the best approach if you’re in a colder part of the country).

Treat your tomatillo plants like a determinate (or bush) tomato, and allow them to ramble freely. There’s no need to prune them – though given how fragile their branches can be, you may need to put some stakes or a structure in place – to support the plant as it grows and to keep the fruit off the ground. They will fruit abundantly as long as there are pollinating insects visiting their little yellow flowers, so two plants will provide you with as many fruits as one household can consume. Like all solanaceae family members, tomatillos appreciate an occasional feed (such as comfrey or liquid seaweed) to support their growth and fruiting.

Their pollinated flowers will, at first, transform into a papery husk encasing a tiny fruit – much like a physalis, to which tomatillos are related. They are ready to harvest when the fruit has swelled to fill the husk or, better still, when it is pushing its way out and the husk has started to yellow. They can be stored for quite a few weeks, although split fruit are best kept in the fridge.

Remove the papery husk and rinse off any sticky sap before preparing your tomatillos. While they’re often eaten cooked, I love them raw – diced with a little chilli, pink pickled onions, fresh coriander and a squeeze of lime to create something akin to a salsa which I greedily shovel into my face with tortilla chips.

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Travel could be a good deal this summer. Here's when plane ticket prices will peak.

Spring is springing and according to Hopper, it’s time to start thinking about your summer vacation plans.

New data from the online booking site shows some favorable trends for travelers in the next few months, including slightly lower airfares compared to 2023, and hotel and car rental prices that are more or less flat year-over-year.

Here’s what you need to know as you prepare to book, whether you’re looking to take a domestic getaway or go on an overseas adventure. It’s also not too late to take advantage of deals on some last-minute trips.

How much are spring and summer plane tickets?

According to Hopper, the best deals right now are on domestic airline tickets. Round-trip flights within the U.S. are averaging $290 in April, but prices are expected to rise in the months ahead.

Hopper’s data shows prices for domestic flights will peak between May and June at $315 on average, and then will gradually fall through the summer, reaching a low of $264 on average in September.

On a call with investors discussing first-quarter earnings Wednesday, Delta Air Lines CEO Ed Bastian said summer travel demand has been pushed forward in recent years due in part to schools, especially in the South, finishing their summer breaks earlier in the year.

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This summer will also be a good time to travel internationally, with Hopper data showing fares to most destinations abroad down compared to last year. 

“Airfare to international destinations continues to improve following two years of bloated prices due to quickly recovering demand, high fuel prices and supply constraints. Airfare to most major regions of the world has dropped compared to last year with the exception of trips to Canada,” Hayley Berg, Hopper’s chief economist, said in the report. “International fares remain higher than pre-pandemic levels to most regions, as higher fuel prices persist and airlines continue to rebuild capacity to many regions.”

How much will a hotel room for the spring and summer cost?

Hotel prices remain more or less flat compared to the same time last year. Rooms in the U.S. are averaging $206 per night currently, with even better deals available in some trending international destinations like Osaka, Japan and Istanbul, Turkey.

According to Hopper, Las Vegas, New York and Chicago remain popular destinations in the U.S.

Will car rental prices go up this summer?

Car rental prices also haven’t gone up much since last year, averaging $42 per day currently, according to Hopper.

The report shows that most travelers rent a car for about four days and warm weather destinations like Orlando and Los Angeles remain popular pickup points.

Zach Wichter is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in New York. You can reach him at [email protected].

What does rebellious style look like? Enter artist Saturn Risin9

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A bag becomes a different thing entirely when worn by different personalities — similar to how no one perfume smells the same on two different people. To test out this idea, we invited four different artists to style the same bag into their personal look and lifestyle for one day, dreaming up places across L.A. where they would wear it. The bag? The Acne Studios rivet wine box bag from the brand’s spring/summer ’24 collection. It felt like a bag tough enough to withstand a long day in L.A. and lightweight enough to not drag you down.

In the second installment of the series , Saturn Risin9 , a singer, performer and DJ, takes the bag to Pirate Studios, where she practices DJ sets ahead of the weekend. With the Acne bag in tow, the multi-hyphenate shows us how their personal style is a reflection of “ambition, being daring, being exciting, and how to bring those things together.”

Designer Bobby Cabbagestalk styles an Acne Studios bag for the future

“I try to design as if I’m in the future, not as if I’m trying to imagine what the future is about.”

April 10, 2024

Who are you and what do you do?

I’m a multihyphenate. I’m a performer, a singer, a DJ, I throw events. I have a charity, Rings Alliance, for trans and queer artists. We’re still getting our footing but you’ll be hearing more about that soon.

Describe your personal style.

I’ve always been really rebellious. And my mom says she knew the moment that she was pregnant with me that I was going to only do what I wanted. I think my style reflects that. Even the things that you would think I would care about — like what’s trending, what the standard of fashion or music is — I never really care. If it hits me, I wear it. And if it sounds good to me, I do it, because I can make anything work. I mean that in life as well as in my music and also in my style. I think my self, my work and personal style all reflect someone that works really hard for themselves and by themselves. It’s a reflection of ambition, being daring, being exciting, and how to bring those things together because it is really remarkable to do that in a world that does not champion and welcome that. (I’m blessed to have found a community and a personal world that does.) My style reflects that person, and my effort toward being great and having fun.

Saturn Risin9 wearing the Acne Studios rivet wine box bag at Pirate Studios.

I think my self, my work and personal style all reflect someone that works really hard for themselves and by themselves.

— Performer, singer and DJ Saturn Risin9

Talk to me about dreaming up an outfit around this Acne Studios bag.

For the last few years I’ve really been into these really small bags that don’t have a lot of space — I love a clutch size. So when I saw the bag I was excited because it was more spacious and had this rectangular shape so I knew that I could fit a lot of things in it, which meant that I had more options to wear things that allowed for a sleek [look]. I don’t have to wear pockets because my purse can hold it all, so I have these thigh-high boots on. I definitely thought about how flexible [the bag] would be for going out or even traveling because I don’t like to travel with a lot. I like to have as much as I can fit in my purse and still be sexy, cute and ready to go.

How does sense of place inform sense of style? How do you travel through L.A. with style in mind?

I’m usually in what I like to call butch-wares. I definitely like to be comfy when I travel through L.A., especially in the daytime — I’m not trying to put on a look. I also don’t want to be bogged down by the idea that dolls [trans women] need to present super feminine or hyper-femme to be able to pass through life. Passability is not even a concern for me. I just try to be as comfortable as possible because I’m doing so much at all times — why would I want to be uncomfortable on top of working as hard as I work? But, there’s nothing more c— than having a fab bag on you. Sweats or not, a fab bag is a fab bag. Like, actually, let me dress more bummy and pull out the Acne bag.

Producer: Mere Studios Makeup: Saturn Risin9 Hair: Malcom Marquez

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Julissa James is a staff writer for Image, where she covers culture, style, fashion, art and L.A. She has been with the Los Angeles Times since 2019 and has written for the magazine since 2021.

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This diagram shows what happens during a total solar eclipse

• A total solar eclipse will be visible from Texas to Maine on Monday.
• This cosmic event occurs when the Earth, sun, and moon align perfectly.
• One diagram shows how a total solar eclipse works, and why it darkens the sky in the middle of the day.

A total solar eclipse will turn afternoon skies dark from Texas to Maine on Monday.

During the eclipse, the moon will cross between the Earth and the sun, completely blocking out the sun's light. If you're in the moon's shadow, the sky will go dark for about three to four minutes, depending on your location.

It's the climax of a cosmic dance between our planet , the moon, and the sun.

What causes a total solar eclipse

During a total solar eclipse, three key conditions happen at the same time: The moon is in the "new moon" phase; the moon crosses the plane of the Earth's orbit ; and the moon is at its closest point to Earth in its orbit.

When those conditions are just right, the Earth, sun, and moon line up. This diagram shows how that looks:

Then, if you're in the path of totality — which is basically the center of the moon's shadow, called the umbra — the moon appears to obscure the sun.

If you're in the penumbra — the outer region of the moon's shadow — you'll see a partial solar eclipse , where the moon appears to partially overlap the sun.

A total solar eclipse happens somewhere on Earth about every 18 months on average. It's rare for one to occur in any single place, though, because of the complex movements of the Earth and moon.

The moon orbits Earth every 29.5 days, while Earth has its own orbit around the sun. The moon's orbit is tilted about five degrees, which is large enough to keep its shadow off the Earth and the Earth's shadow off the moon most of the time.

There are two points — called nodes — where the moon's orbit crosses the Earth's plane. In the diagram above, the moon is lined up on a node.

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The moon aligns with the nodes and the sun about twice per year, which is how we get eclipses. A solar eclipse happens when the moon is between the Earth and sun. A lunar eclipse happens when the moon is on the other side of the Earth, farthest from the sun.

What the total solar eclipse will look like

In the path of totality on Monday, where the moon's umbra falls over Earth, the total solar eclipse will have 10 distinct phases , each with different amounts of the sun visible from the ground.

The phenomenon kicks off with what's called first contact, when the moon starts to pass across the sun. After about an hour, the moon will almost completely mask the sun, and you'll start to see a bright light radiate out of the sliver of remaining sun, known as the "diamond ring."

Then the moon will fully eclipse the sun, turning the sky dark in the middle of the day.

During totality only the sun's outermost atmosphere, called the corona, will be visible glowing around the dark disc of the moon.

After that, the moon will continue to travel across the sky to form another crescent. The eclipse ends when the moon ceases to cover the sun.

Types of solar eclipses

There are three types of solar eclipses .

Total solar eclipses, like this one, occur when the moon appears to completely cover the sun. If the moon only somewhat covers the sun, that's a partial eclipse . Many people who are near the path of totality, but not in it, on Monday will see a partial eclipse.

The third type, an annular eclipse , occurs when the moon is too far from Earth to fully block out the sun from our perspective. The outer edge of the sun remains visible as a bright ring around the moon.

A total solar eclipse is considered the most spectacular. Globally, only about a third of all solar eclipses are total.

The next total solar eclipse in the contiguous US will be in 2044.

How to watch the eclipse

If you plan to watch the eclipse, make sure you are wearing ISO-certified eclipse glasses . These are 1,000 times darker than regular sunglasses. Without them, staring at the sun could damage your eyes.

The only safe time to look at the eclipse without glasses is during totality.

Leanna Garfield and Anaele Pelisson contributed to an earlier version of this post .

Watch: Why the sun has two giant holes, and what that means for Earth

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