The 15 Best Boutique Hotels in Oaxaca Mexico
ready to book one of the best Oaxaca boutique hotels?
You’ve come to the right place because this article highlights the 15 best boutique hotels in Oaxaca City. This list also includes the best luxury hotels Oaxaca has as well.
Our Pick: Best Boutique Hotel
Don’t have time to read the whole article? No worries! The nicest boutique hotel in Oaxaca City is Pug Seal, located in downtown.
There are many different reasons to visit Oaxaca City — its colorful colonial architecture, gorgeous nature, smoky mezcal, lively festivals like Day of the Dead, lively marcados (markets), delicious Oaxacan food, and more.
Regardless of why you’re visiting, when traveling to Oaxaca City, you’re going to need a place to stay. So the question remains: What are the best Oaxaca boutique hotels, and where do I book mine?!
This article is going to show you, so let’s dive in!
Quick Guide: 5 Best Boutique Hotels in Oaxaca City
Just want to cliff’s notes so you can quickly book one of the best boutique hotels or best luxury hotels in Oaxaca City, Mexico?! Here’s are my picks:
- Best Historic Hotel in Oaxaca City: Quinta Real Oaxaca ($$$$)
- Best Boutique Hotel in Oaxaca City: Pug Seal Oaxaca ($$$$)
- Instagram-Worthy Best Hotel in Oaxaca City: City Centro Hotel Oaxaca ($$$) The famous pink hotel in Oaxaca!
- Best Oaxaca Hacienda: Hacienda Los Laureles ($$$)
- Best Oaxaca B&B: Casa de las Bugambilias ($$)
Top 15 Boutique Hotels in Oaxaca
They say where you stay can make, or break, your Oaxaca trip — and the amazing places on this list will help make it unforgettable. Below, you’ll find a list of the best places to stay in Oaxaca City.
1. Quinta Real Oaxaca
- 🏆 Perfect for: All travelers
- ⭐️ Known for: Location, customer service, amenities, pool, pet friendly
- 🏨 View on Booking.com
Located in the restored 16th Century Covenant of Santa Catalina de Siena, the Quinta Real Oaxaca Hotel is a gorgeous boutique hotel in Oaxaca Mexico.
This historic hotel was originally built in 1579, and is located in the Oaxaca City Center (Downtown), a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Today, it’s an opulent oasis for discerning travelers.
The hotel is the perfect mix of modern luxury and history. It has retained an Old World charm, from the tile floors to the arched courtyards and combination of stone and dark timber.
Breathtakingly beautiful building and world class staff. We would stay here again in a heartbeat!
—Lucy (read more reviews)
The Quinta is located right beside Plaza Santo Domingo, and is within walking distance of all major attractions. It is also located in one of the safest neighborhoods in Oaxaca, making it the best hotel for first time visitors.
🐾 Traveling to Oaxaca with pets? The Quinta Real Oaxaca is one of the best pet friendly hotels in Oaxaca City.
Lastly, the hotel is known for its outstanding customer service and amenities, including a gym, outdoor pool and air conditioning in the rooms.
There’s also the on-site El Refectorio restaurant, which serves international and Oaxacan food, as well as Las Bugambilias Bar and Las Novicias Bar.
Best Boutique Hotels in Oaxaca City
2. Pug Seal Oaxaca City
- 🏆 Perfect for: Art and design lovers, couples, solo travelers
- ⭐️ Known for: Design, ambiance, impeccable service
- 🏨 View on Booking.com
Pug Seal Oaxaca City offers one of the most exclusive lodging experiences in town — but book ASAP as there’s only 20 rooms and they full up quickly.
It is located in the historic center of Oaxaca, the heart of the city, so you’re within walking distance of everything.
Pug Seal is a beautiful boutique hotel with an excellent service and staff! The decoration of the room and common areas is marvelous… Breakfast is delicious… It is a gem in Oaxaca!
—mauricio (read more reviews)
Staying here is a must for art and design lovers, who will never tire of simply looking around.
The hotel’s design is a journey through the local Zapotec culture and a tribute to the Mexican aesthetic, created by local artists like Rafael Uriegas, Manuel Lozano and Sabino Guisu.
Guests at the Oaxaca Pug Seal Hotel will enjoy gourmet a la carte breakfast each morning, personal concierge service and eco-friendly bath products.
If you need to work, there are private areas and meeting rooms, and fast, free wifi throughout the space.
Best Boutique Hotels in Oaxaca City
3. Hotel Escondido Oaxaca City
- 🏆 Perfect for: Couples, solo travelers
- ⭐️ Known for: Location, European feel
- 🏨 View on Booking.com
Hotel Escondido Oaxaca City is part of the Grupo Habita boutique hotel collection, known for their architecture, design, respect for the local culture and attention to detail.
Their sister hotel, also called Hotel Escondido, is one of the best hotels in Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca.
The hotel is stunning and comfortable. The rooftop bar and courtyard seating area are a little slice of oasis, so quiet. Our private terrace was also bliss…
—george (read more reviews)
The Oaxaca City location lives up to the same high standards. It has an eco-friendly design mixed with modern touches like a rooftop swimming pool and flat-screen TV in each room.
Guests also get complimentary continental breakfast each morning.
There’s an onsite Culture Room with art and a library, which doubles as a co-working space for digital nomads and remote workers. You’re within easy walking distance of quite a few sites, like Santa Maria del Marquesado Church.
Note: This Oaxaca boutique hotel is adults only.
Best Boutique Hotels in Oaxaca City
4. City Centro Oaxaca (Pink Hotel)
- 🏆 Perfect for: Solo travelers, couples, influencers
- ⭐️ Known for: Hip location, unique interiors and ambiance, pool
- 🏨 View on Booking.com
If you are looking for a unique boho type of hotel, look no further than City Centro Oaxaca, the famous pink hotel in Oaxaca City.
This hotel is located in one of the most exciting and oldest neighborhoods, Jalatlaco, the coolest and hippest area in all Oaxaca.
One of the best Oaxaca hidden gems, this neighborhood’s bright colors, cobblestone streets, coffee shops and restaurants make it truly unique.
The hotel perfectly mirrors the mood of the Jalatlaco Oaxaca neighborhood, boasting an impressive bright pink design.
The hotel is located on a beautiful, quiet street, within walking distance to the hustle bustle of the city center. It was the best place to return to and rest after exploring the city.
—Irene (read more reviews)
Along with its pink color, the hotel’s interior is well done, and its modernity creates a perfect balance with the antiquity of the neighborhood.
The rooftop pool area, with retro lounge chairs and tall cacti, give it a Palm Springs look that’s perfect as a photo backdrop.
The City Centro Oaxaca has a terrace, a bar, and rooftop pool that overlooks the Temple of San Matias Jalatlaco. It is located just outside the city center, but all the best things to do in Oaxaca City are still within walking distance.
Best Boutique Hotels in Oaxaca City
5. Casa Antonieta Oaxaca
- 🏆 Perfect for: Families, first-time travelers, couples
- ⭐️ Known for: Location, customer service
- 🏨 View on Booking.com
Located in the historic center of Oaxaca (AKA Downtown), Casa Antonieta is a 4-Star hotel that feels like a 5-Star hotel.
It offers the simplicity and hospitality of a local home, combined with the modern charm and amenities of a hotel.
The hotel is part of the Spanish Villa de Antequera, built in mid-1529 between the streets of Independencia and Hidalgo.
Casa Antonieta is located in the first block of this project, and has taken great care to preserve the architectural structure and beauty of this building.
This place is truly incredible and has to be seen to be believed. From staff to the room, everything felt personal and a genuine warmth exudes from this place.
—Paul (read more reviews)
One of the first things you’ll notice while stepping into the hotel is the pillars that support the building, courtyard and common area.
The whole area is filled with lush greenery and makes for the perfect spot to relax after a long day of seeing the Oaxaca sites.
Casa Antoneita is famous for its location in the City Center, also known as Downtown Oaxaca. It has a cool minimalist design aesthetic, comfy beds, warm and welcoming staff, and a rooftop garden patio with a bar.
Best Boutique Hotels in Oaxaca City
6. Hotel Casa Santo Origen
- 🏆 Perfect for: Couples, honeymooners, girl’s trip
- ⭐️ Known for: Tranquil atmosphere, posh accommodations
- 🏨 View on Booking.com
Located 15-20 minutes from Downtown Oaxaca by car, Hotel Casa Santo Origen is the perfect place to escape the city life and enjoy the Mexican countryside.
It is an adults only hotel, so it’s the perfect place for a honeymoon or adult’s trip.
A truly white-glove experience of a vacation… I’ve never stayed at a hotel that places such impeccable detail and consideration towards the guest experience.
—Wozzi (read more reviews)
The hotel’s layout emphasizes privacy, while its contemporary designs and warm interiors offer travelers a unique sense of secluded tranquility.
Enjoy the on-site restaurant, Entre Sombras, with unique Oaxacan Mediterranean fusion cuisine, and the heated saltwater pool.
Note: Casa Santo Origen is about 15-20 minutes by car from Downtown Oaxaca. Since there’s no Uber in Oaxaca City, and no Lyft either, you can take a taxi, drive your rental car, or have the hotel arrange for a private driver.
Best Boutique Hotels in Oaxaca City
7. Casa Carmen Reforma
- 🏆 Perfect for: Couples, art lovers, solo travelers, business travelers
- ⭐️ Known for: Location, unique artwork, designs and interiors
- 🏨 View on Booking.com
According to Amador Montes, our home is our sanctuary. This famous Mexican artist designed four exclusive rooms in Casa Carmen Reforma to share his unique perspective on the concept of what home means.
A very welcoming and well designed hotel, with a lovely staff and delicious breakfast. We loved our room with the terrace and outdoor bathtub.
—Josephine (read more reviews)
Casa Carmen offers a cultural immersion into the city of Oaxaca, which is considered by some to be the artistic capital of Mexico.
Along with impeccably designed rooms, all with their own unique theme, a central location, and a gorgeous terrace, Casa Carmen Oaxaca will wow you.
Note: If Casa Carmen Reforma is booked during your travel dates, check out Casa Carmen Morelos, a near-identical Oaxaca City boutique hotel located just a few minutes away.
Best Boutique Hotels in Oaxaca City
8. Casa de las Bugambilias Oaxaca B&B
- 🏆 Perfect for: Solo travelers, couples
- ⭐️ Known for: Location, breakfast, locally-owned property
- 🏨 View on Booking.com
A cute B&B located one block from the Santo Domingo Cathedral, Oaxaca Botanical Garden and Oaxaca Cultural Museum, the Casa de las Bugambilias B&B is a modern house decorated with contemporary art, antiques, and local folk art.
Full immersion in the colors and tastes of Oaxaca… Every staff member was kind, knowledgeable, and set on giving us the best possible stay.
—Katelena (read more reviews)
This B&B is family-owned, run by the Cabrera family of Oaxaca, who have been hosting visitors since 1988.
The hotel is known for its unique decorated rooms, comfortable beds, perfect location, and impeccable customer service.
Another unique feature of this hotel is its complimentary two-course breakfast, which features Oaxacan cuisine using only organic, locally grown, and fresh produce.
Casa de las Bugambilias hotel is also home to the La Olla Restaurant and Art Gallery. They also operate one of the best mezcal tours in Oaxaca City.
Best Boutique Hotels in Oaxaca City
BONUS: Best Oaxaca B&Bs
Like in most cities around the world, Oaxaca bed and breakfast hotels are usually on the smaller side — and they fill up fast.
If Casa de las Bugambilias B&B is booked during your travel dates, here are a few other great options for Oaxaca B&B hotels:
- La Betulia Bed and Breakfast
- Grana B&B Oaxaca City
- Boulenc Bed and Bread, which is connected to Boulenc Oaxaca Bakery, one of the best Oaxaca restaurants.
Best Boutique Hotels in Oaxaca City
9. Hotel Casa Oaxaca
- 🏆 Perfect for: First-time travelers, couples, solo travelers
- ⭐️ Known for: Location, Casa Oaxaca restaurant, customer service, amenities, pool
- 🏨 View at Casa Oaxaca
Located right in the heart of the Downtown Oaxaca de Juarez, the Casa Oaxaca Hotel is the perfect jumping-off point to explore the city.
The hotel is just four blocks from the Zocalo, which is the main square and central plaza in the Oaxaca City Center.
It’s also home to the famous Casa Oaxaca restaurant, which is known as one of the best restaurants in Oaxaca City.
For foodies, Casa Oaxaca by chef Alejandro Ruiz is always at the top of their list of the best places to eat in Oaxaca, with a spot on the coveted 50 Best list. Ruiz is one of the most famous Mexican chefs.
This is a lovely boutique hotel [with] 7 unique rooms. Wonderful restaurant serving food in the courtyard. Wonderful, helpful and responsive staff. Very safe and clean.
—steven (read more reviews)
Along with its central location, Casa Oaxaca also boasts gorgeous colonial architecture, an acclaimed restaurant, and artsy decor.
Here you will find a courtyard filled with greenery, an outdoor swimming pool, undeniable attention to detail, and incredible customer service.
But what stands out here is the food. The hotel’s restaurant serves exquisite Oaxacan dishes prepared with local, native and organic ingredients.
Even if you aren’t staying in the hotel, you can book a table at the restaurant to enjoy their traditional Oaxaca cuisine.
Best Boutique Hotels in Oaxaca City
10. El Callejón Hotel Boutique
- 🏆 Perfect for: Families, first-time travelers, business travelers
- ⭐️ Known for: Location, complimentary breakfast, free secured parking
- 🏨 View on Booking.com
El Callejón Hotel Boutique is minutes from Downtown Oaxaca, in the heart of the Xochimilco neighborhood.
Xochimilco (pronounced so-chee-mill-co) is the oldest Oaxaca City neighborhood, known for colorful buildings, historic charm and this 18th Century aqueduct.
Gorgeous grounds, incredibly helpful, attentive staff, impeccably clean and well appointed suite… Would stay again in a heartbeat.
—dana (read more reviews)
This hotel is an urban oasis with 12 spacious rooms distributed across four towers, all complemented by private terraces and balconies.
The property also has stunning architecture and a lush garden that provides guests some peace and quiet from the city’s hustle and bustle.
El Callejón Hotel Boutique Oaxaca City offers free private parking, which is great if you’re renting a car in Oaxaca, as many hotels in Downtown don’t offer this.
There’s also a restaurant and bar that has a large selection of the best Oaxaca mezcals the region has to offer.
👩💼 Traveling to Oaxaca on business? Or just plan to stay a while? Callejón Oaxaca Hotel also has the option to rent apartment-style rooms that have a kitchen, microwave, fridge and minibar.
Best Boutique Hotels in Oaxaca City
11. Marialicia Suites Boutique Hotel
- 🏆 Perfect for: Couples, families, larger groups
- ⭐️ Known for: Location, large suites
- 🏨 View on Booking.com
Looking for the best suites in Oaxaca City? Look no further than Marialicia Suites, Hotel Boutique, conveniently located in downtown within walking distance of all the top sites.
Everything at Marialicia Suites was fantastic! Impeccably clean, newly renovated, outstanding customer service, and location was perfect, near enough to walk to the city centre and far enough to stay away from any noise.
—sandra (read more reviews)
Each room has a free WiFi, smart TV, air conditioning, patio, and full kitchen with a microwave and a refrigerator. Your private bathroom has a shower, hairdryer and bathrobes.
Best Boutique Hotels in Oaxaca City
12. Hotel Ayook Oaxaca
- 🏆 Perfect for: Couples, solo travelers
- ⭐️ Known for: Location, unique decor and style
- 🏨 View on Booking.com
Situated in the historic center of Oaxaca, Hotel AYOOK is a contemporary boutique hotel that was rebuilt from the remains of an 18th Century house.
The hotel has perfectly combined a respect for the history of the buildings with modern, sophisticated touches throughout.
The hotel is beautiful with an open air courtyard. The staff was exceptional and breakfast is prepared fresh… I would recommend Ayook hotel to anyone looking for an authentic experience in a boutique environment!
—Becky (read more reviews)
Small but mighty, this 12-room hotel is beautifully decorated with high-quality elements and local artisan touches.
It also offers big rooms, comfy beds, a central location and a delicious breakfast every morning at Cafe AYOOK, which is free for all guests to enjoy.
Best Boutique Hotels in Oaxaca City
13. Hotel NaNa Vida Oaxaca
- 🏆 Perfect for: Couples, solo travelers
- ⭐️ Known for: Location, unique hotel offerings
- 🏨 View on Booking.com
NaNa Vida Oaxaca is a boutique hotel where the culture, art, and flavors of Oaxaca Mexico all live harmoniously.
Their CaCuachi Cantina de Autor is a cool social area where guests can play dominoes, listen to music and sample some locally-made Oaxacan mezcal in the cantina.
Nana Vida is a reflection of Oaxaca City: colorful, arty, friendly and cool… We loved our stay.
—Anna (read more reviews)
Each of their rooms not only includes a comfy bed, but are also decorated with artisanal pieces to support local Oaxaca artists. Their exclusive rooms also have a patio view, opening up to a lush, greenery-filled garden.
NaNa Vida Hotel Boutique Oaxaca also offers cooking classes, massages, yoga, a business center, and even a soap bar!
This unique feature is something you never see in hotels — as they have a private collection of soaps handmade by local artisans, and hotel guests get to pick their preferred scent.
Best Boutique Hotels in Oaxaca City
14. Hotel Azul de Oaxaca
- 🏆 Perfect for: Couples, solo travelers, social travelers
- ⭐️ Known for: Rooftop, Free airport shuttle
- 🏨 View on Booking.com
Hotel Azul is a flawless mixture of the rustic Oaxaca desert meets clean, modern luxury. While the look is quintessential Oaxacan, the rooms are comfortable and luxurious — though staying here won’t break the bank.
Each morning, you’ll enjoy a free breakfast to start the day right. But the free perks don’t end there, as Hotel Azul Oaxaca also provides a free roundtrip airport shuttle.
Casa Azul has a great vibe. The location is perfect, making it easy to walk to the sites, shops and restaurants in the historic downtown. The staff was friendly… the breakfast that was included was delicious.
—Lisa (read more reviews)
There’s also a rooftop terrace and bar, and the onsite Mexican cuisine restaurant, Patio Azul, features al fresco dining and daily happy hour.
Stay connected with free, fast WiFi in your room, and take some time to relax in the garden and library. When you’re ready to explore the city, the hotel also offers free bike rentals.
In a city full of stylish and beautiful hotels, this one remains one of the most beautiful hotels in Oaxaca Mexico — and all the free perks can’t be beat.
Best Boutique Hotels in Oaxaca City
15. Hotel Parador de Alcalá
- 🏆 Perfect for: Couples, solo travelers, business travelers, families
- ⭐️ Known for: Central location, friendly staff, swimming pool
- 🏨 View on Booking.com
Located in the heart of the Oaxaca historical center, the Hotel Parador de Alcalá is housed in an 18th Century mansion that was restored and converted into a boutique hotel.
If you want to be right in the heart of the action, this hotel is the perfect place for you.
Really cozy place, fresh and clean. Conveniently located. The breakfast was really good also.
—Alfredo (read more reviews)
With just 21 rooms and suites, guests get dedicated, personal attention from the staff.
Enjoy amenities like made-to-order breakfast served in the open-air courtyard, rooftop pool with stunning views of the city, fitness center and business center with meeting room.
Best Boutique Hotels in Oaxaca City
BONUS: Additional Places to Stay in Oaxaca City
Still need a few more recommendations for where to stay in Oaxaca City? Here are 20 more suggestions for the best Oaxaca hotels, haciendas, guesthouses and more:
🏆 Best Oaxaca hotels with a view
- Hotel Los Amantes Oaxaca City
- Casa de Siete Balcones Hotel Boutique
- Nardazul Casa de Sueños
- Majagua Hotel Boutique (Adults only Oaxaca hotel)
🏆 Best art hotels in Oaxaca city
- Hotel Siglo XVII Art Gallery
- Casa de Adobe Gallery & Luxury Boutique
- Hotel con Corazon
- Na-anché Hotel Oaxaca
🏆 Best haciendas in Oaxaca
- Quinta Real Oaxaca
- Hacienda Los Laureles
- Hotel Dainzu (Hacienda-style hotel in downtown)
- Casona Soledad
🏆 Best Oaxaca budget hotels
Best Neighborhoods in Oaxaca City
Now that you know the best boutique hotels in Oaxaca, you might be wondering, What are the safest areas in Oaxaca City? What are the best Oaxaca neighborhoods?
Though it’s known as one of the safest places in Mexico, Oaxaca City does have some neighborhoods that are better than others, so stick to the ones below.
Centro Histórico (Downtown Oaxaca)
Centro Historico, or Historic Downtown Oaxaca, is one of the best places to stay in Oaxaca for apparent reasons.
Downtown Oaxaca is centered around Zocalo, a large square that houses the massive Oaxaca Cathedral, and many of the best things to see in Oaxaca City.
Whatever happens in Oaxaca City, happens in downtown, so this is THE place to be when you visit Oaxaca.
If you haven’t been to the city before, this is the best place to stay in Oaxaca. It is the heart of the city and the home of many bars, restaurants, and tourist attractions.
🏩 Top 10 Best Hotels in Downtown Oaxaca
Santo Domingo Oaxaca City
Santo Domingo is the northern half of Centro Historico, and considered the nicest part of Downtown Oaxaca.
It is walkable, and you’ll be near the best Oaxaca mezcal bars, top restaurants in Oaxaca, artisan shops, local mercados (Oaxaca markets) and art galleries.
Santo Domingo is renowned for its nightlife, beauty and colonial architecture.
Stroll the cobblestone streets, enjoy the breathtaking buildings, and see many of the top Oaxaca attractions, like the Santo Domingo Church and Oaxaca Botanical Garden — two of the top sites in Downtown Oaxaca City.
🏩 Best Hotels in Santo Domingo Oaxaca
✅ Barrio de la Noria
In the southern half of downtown, there’s Barrio de la Noria, a quiet, residential area. This is a better option if you need quiet nights, as Santo Domingo can be loud.
In Barrio de la Noria, you’re still within walking distance of the all top Oaxaca attractions. The best hotel in this part of town is La Noria Centro Historico.
Barrio de Jalatlaco Oaxaca
Located just next to Centro and the famous Parque El Llano Park, you’ll find the colorful Jalatlaco neighborhood (pronounced ha-lat-lack-oh).
Jalatlaco is lined with cobblestone streets and colorful buildings. This neighborhood is hip, artsy, and one of the coolest places to stay in Oaxaca, especially if you love street art.
It’s just a short 10 minute walk from downtown and most major Oaxaca attractions, but it has a locals’ feel. There’s hip coffee shops, family-run restaurants, quirky bars with live music and unique local shops.
🏩 Best Hotels in Jalatlaco
Barrio de Xochimilco Oaxaca
North of Santo Domingo is Barrio de Xochimilco, a neighborhood founded in 1486 by the Xochimilco warriors following the orders of an Aztec emperor. It is the oldest neighborhood in Oaxaca City, and among its most historic.
Xochimilco (pronounced so-chee-mill-co) is famous for its colorful streets, artisan shops, traditional restaurants and centuries-old history.
If you are looking for a wallet-friendly place to stay, this quiet and low-key barrio (meaning “neighborhood”), this is the place for you.
🏩 Best Hotels in Xochimilco Oaxaca
Reforma Oaxaca City
Last but not least is the Reforma neighborhood in Oaxaca City.
It’s a bit off the beaten path for most Oaxaca travelers who prefer downtown, but if you want to live like a local, this is one of the best neighborhoods Oaxaca has for that.
Reforma is an affluent neighborhood, and though it lacks major attractions, you’ll find a friendly local scene that’s completely un-touristy.
In Reforma, you’ll have authentic local restaurants (like Itanoni, a personal favorite of mine), as well as international dining options and boutique hotels.
🏩 Best Hotels in Reforma Oaxaca
Oaxaca Travel Guide and FAQ
How do you pronounce Oaxaca?
Wondering about the Oaxaca pronunciation? It’s a common question, so if you are, you’re not alone! The word Oaxaca is pronounced waa-haa-kah.
Where is Oaxaca located?
Oaxaca is a state in southern Mexico, surrounded by three other Mexican states: Chiapas, Guerrero and Puebla. The southern edge of the state sits on the Pacific Ocean, where you’ll find the best Oaxaca beaches.
🗺️ Oaxaca Map
🇲🇽 Where is Oaxaca City located?
Oaxaca City is the state’s capital city, and located in the center of Oaxaca State. Many think Oaxaca is near the beach, but it’s actually about 160 miles (257 km) from the coast.
Oaxaca City is located about six hours south of Mexico City. You can book direct flights from Mexico City to Oaxaca City, or take the ADO bus. I recommend the flight, as it’s much shorter but not much more money.
What is the best time to visit Oaxaca Mexico?
The best time to travel to Oaxaca is during the dry season, October to May. However, the temperate weather in Oaxaca City means it can be a year-round destination.
While it will definitely rain quite a bit during the Oaxaca rainy season, you’ll also get lower prices, as this is the slow season in Oaxaca.
If you want to avoid the crowds, the Oaxaca busy season runs from about late-October for Day of the Dead, through mid-January.
Many also visit Oaxaca de Juárez (Oaxaca City) for the Guelaguetza Festival in July. This is the second biggest Oaxaca festival, and a very popular event, so book your Oaxaca hotel well in advance.
🌡️ Oaxaca weather Averages
Oaxaca City has a desert climate, so hot days and cool nights. The temperature in Oaxaca City fluctuates a lot, so be mindful and bring layers when packing for Oaxaca.
If you hate the heat, avoid the hottest months of April to May so you have an enjoyable Oaxaca vacation.
Is Oaxaca safe for tourists?
For the vast majority of travelers, Oaxaca is safe to visit. In fact, Oaxaca is one of the safest states in Mexico.
Oaxaca City is the country’s 67th largest city, with a population of about 275,000, but retains a humble, pueblo vibe. Now, that doesn’t mean bad things don’t happen in Oaxaca City; they do.
However, if you take the same general travel precautions you would anywhere else — ie. stay aware of yourself, your belongings and your surroundings — you should be safe traveling to Oaxaca City.
⚠️ For a deep dive into this topic and a Oaxaca safety guide, check out Is Oaxaca Safe to Travel to Right Now?
What’s the closest Oaxaca Airport?
Wondering, Is there an airport in Oaxaca City? Yes, there’s Oaxaca International Airport (code: OAX), located about 20-30 minutes from downtown.
You might see this airport called Xoxocotlán International Airport, but it is just another name for OAX Airport. ▶︎ Book your Oaxaca flights now!
🚐 Best Oaxaca Airport transportation
Is there Uber in Oaxaca City?
No — There is no Oaxaca Uber service, no Lyft in Oaxaca and no ride-shares in Oaxaca.
They do have DiDi Taxi through the DiDi Rider app, which lets you call a Oaxaca taxi via the app. It’s basically like using Uber or Lyft, but you will get a regular cab.
ARE TAXIS SAFE IN OAXACA MEXICO?
For the majority of travelers, yes, taxis are perfectly safe to use in Oaxaca.
I personally prefer to call taxis via the DiDi Rider app, so I have a record of my trip and the price is already set for me, but you can also just hail a cab on the street.
How do you get around Oaxaca City?
Oaxaca City is walkable, so if you’re just staying in the city itself, you can walk and use taxis and public transportation as needed.
If you’re doing Oaxaca day trips, a rental car or group tour is your best bet, and I recommend booking Oaxaca tours via Viator and Airbnb Experiences.
How many days do you need in Oaxaca City?
Within Oaxaca City itself, you can see the highlights in 2-3 full days. For those who want to explore the Oaxaca pueblos magicos, sites and villages outside town, you’ll want at least 5-6 full days.
The best things to do near Oaxaca include exploring Hierve el Agua in San Lorenzo Albarradas, San Agustín Etla and Teotitlán Del Valle, two Oaxaca art towns, and San Pablo Villa de Mitla, a pueblo magico (magic town).
What is Oaxaca known for?
There are five things Oaxaca is known for — art, culture, the Oaxaca Day of the Dead celebration, mezcal and food.
If you’re really wondering, Why is Oaxaca so popular? The answer is likely for the food. In fact, Oaxaca is known as the Foodie Capital of Mexico, so try both the street food in Oaxaca and the restaurants in Oaxaca.
Is Oaxaca City worth visiting?
Short answer: YES! In a word, Oaxaca is magical. It’s the Mexico people imagine Mexico to be with amazing food, fascinating history, colorful colonial architecture and more.
As you’ll usually need to take at least two flights to Oaxaca, Mexico, or a flight and a bus if you’re coming from Mexico City, wondering if traveling to Oaxaca is worth it is a totally valid question.
I hope this guide to Oaxaca made it clear that FU+K YES IT IS!
There’s everything from rich history, colorful festivals, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, locally-made mezcal, beautiful nature, colonial buildings, indigenous artisan communities, and of course, the yummy Oaxacan food.
Final Thoughts: Best Boutique Hotels in Oaxaca Mexico
If you started reading this article not sure where to stay in Oaxaca Mexico, I hope you’ve now picked a place.
Our Pick: Best Boutique Hotel
Don’t have time to read the whole article? No worries! The nicest boutique hotel in Oaxaca City is Pug Seal, located in downtown.
As long as you stick to the best areas in Oaxaca (Centro Historico, Reforma, Xochimilco and Jalatlaco), and you choose a hotel with great reviews, you’ll be just fine!