25+ Best Oaxaca Hotels With Pools You Must Book in 2024

pool area and lounge chairs at one of the Best Oaxaca Hotels With Pools

Looking for Oaxaca City Hotels with pools?

You’ve come to the right place because this article highlights the Top 25 best Oaxaca hotels with pools. As someone who lives in Oaxaca part time — I know the importance of a pool, and I hand-picked the ones featured here.

quinta real oaxaca hotel

Don’t have time to read the whole article? No worries! The best Oaxaca pool hotel is Quinta Real Oaxaca, which has a near-perfect 5 Star rating.

Located in Southern Mexico, Oaxaca is one of the most beautiful cities in Mexico. With its desert climate, Oaxaca City is also very hot during the day, and you’ll really enjoy having a pool at your hotel.

There are many different reasons to travel to culturally-rich Oaxaca City — the colorful colonial architecture, delicious Oaxaca food, lively festivals like Day of the Dead, indigenous artisan towns, funky mezcal bars, and more.

No matter why you plan to visit Oaxaca, you’ll need a place to stay. So the question remains: Where are the best hotels in Oaxaca with pools? This article is going to show you, so let’s dive in (pun intended 🏊‍♀️).

Top 3 Picks: Best Oaxaca Hotels With Pools

#1 TOP PICK

quinta real oaxaca hotel

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Quinta Real Oaxaca
✔️ Airport shuttle
✔️ Outdoor swimming pool

#2 PICK

Hotel Escondido Oaxaca City
✔️ Swimming pool
✔️ Pet friendly

#3 PICK

Hotel de la Parra Oaxaca
✔️ Outdoor pool
✔️ Babysitting services

Top 25 Oaxaca Hotels With Pools

They say where you stay can make, or break, your trip, and these amazing places will help make your vacation unforgettable. Below you’ll find a list of the best Oaxaca hotels with a pool so you can enjoy a refreshing swim.

1. Quinta Real Oaxaca

Quinta Real Oaxaca Hotel pool area | Best Places to Stay in Oaxaca City
Beautiful Quinta Real is the best Oaxaca hotel, and its outdoor swimming pool is a dream! (Photo: Expedia, Best Oaxaca luxury hotels)
  • 🏆 Perfect for: All travelers
  • ⭐️ Known for: Location, pool, customer service, amenities
  • 🏨 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 property.

This historic hotel was originally built in 1579, and is located in the Oaxaca City Center (AKA the Downtown Historic Centre) — which is one of the Mexico UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and among the Oaxaca must see sites.

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.

In short, the Quinta Real Oaxaca Hotel is the perfect luxurious oasis for tiresome travelers. 

The property is absolutely gorgeous, carefully restored with attention to detail and comfort while retaining its history. The room was comfortable and well-appointed with a very comfortable bed… Oh, and the pool is fabulous!

—Leigh (read more reviews)

The Quinta is located right beside the Plaza Santo Domingo and is within walking distance of all major attractions. It is also located in one of the safest parts of town making it the perfect hotel for first time visitors. 

Lastly, the hotel is known for its outstanding customer service and amenities, including a gym, outdoor pool, safety deposit box and air conditioning in the rooms.

There’s also the on-site El Refectorio restaurant, which serves international and Oaxacan food, Las Bugambilias Bar and Las Novicias Bar.

🐾 Traveling to Oaxaca with pets? The Quinta Real Oaxaca is one of the best pet friendly hotels in Oaxaca City.

Oaxaca Hotels With Pools

2. Hotel Escondido Oaxaca City

rooftop pool at Hotel Escondido Oaxaca City, one of the best Oaxaca hotels wiith a pool
indoor outdoor hotel in Oaxaca City, Mexico
The private rooms at Hotel Escondido take tranquil indoor outdoor living to the next level. (Photo: Expedia, Oaxaca hotels)
  • 🏆 Perfect for: Couples, solo travelers, friend groups
  • ⭐️ Known for: Location, rooftop pool, tranquil design, European feel
  • 🏨 View on Booking.com
  • ☝️ Note: This Oaxaca hotel is adults only

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 the best hotels in in Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca.

Everything about the design was so beautiful. It had nice views and a pool on the terrace. The staff was nice and welcoming, they gave us a mezcal drink when we were checking in!

—leopoldo (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.

Oaxaca Hotels With Pools

3. Hotel de la Parra Oaxaca

City Centro Oaxaca hotel pool area | Best Places to Stay in Oaxaca City
Lounge in your private pool at Hotel de la Parra Oaxaca City. (Photo: Expedia)
  • 🏆 Perfect for: Couples, solo travelers, girl’s trips
  • ⭐️ Known for: Location, pool, colonial feel
  • 🏨 View on Expedia.com

Hotel de la Parra is a charming Oaxaca boutique hotel located inside a restored hacienda-style manor. Located a few steps from the Zocalo (City Center), if you want to be near all the best things to do in Oaxaca Citythis is it!

When you need a break from the midday heat in Oaxaca, head to the lush courtyard and enjoy the swimming pool. There’s a bar so you can also try some of the best Oaxaca mezcal, as well as sun lounger chairs to lay on.

The food is outstanding and the service excellent. The pool area is beautiful and the bartender makes wonderful cocktails. The rooms and beds were luxurious, and the staff were helpful and very friendly…

—Caitlin (read more reviews)

With just 13 rooms, you know you’ll be treated like royalty. All the rooms at Hotel de la Parra boast premium bedding, pillow menus so you get the pillows you need for a restful night’s sleep, late night room service, free WiFi, and more.

For an additional fee, get cooked-to-order breakfast each morning, or just grab a free coffee or tea in the lobby on your way out. You’re near many of the best Oaxaca restaurants, so you have plenty of food options close by.

Oaxaca Hotels With Pools

4. City Centro Oaxaca (Pink Hotel)

City Centro Oaxaca hotel pool area | Best Places to Stay in Oaxaca City
The rooftop pool at the Instagram worthy Oaxaca City Centro Hotel in Jalatlaco. (Photo: Expedia, Oaxaca hotels)
  • 🏆 Perfect for: Solo travelers, couples, influencers
  • ⭐️ Known for: Hip location, pool, unique interiors, ambiance
  • 🏨 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. It also has one of the best Oaxaca rooftop bars, ideal for sunset cocktails.

One of the best Oaxaca hidden gems, this neighborhood’s abundance of colors, cobblestone streets, coffee shops, and restaurants make it truly unique.

The hotel perfectly mirrors the mood of this neighborhood, boasting an impressive bright pink design.

The location is amazing… The staff is very friendly and we felt really well. They have a pool and a terrace where you can have a drink.

—Jackeline (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.

Oaxaca Hotels With Pools

5. Hotel Casa Santo Origen

City Centro Oaxaca hotel pool area | Best Places to Stay in Oaxaca City
At Hotel Casa Santo Origen, you’ll feel like you’re staying at a spa. (Photo: Expedia, Adults only hotels in Oaxaca City)
  • 🏆 Perfect for: Couples, honeymooners, girl’s trips, adults
  • ⭐️ Known for: Tranquil atmosphere, posh accommodations
  • 🏨 View on Booking.com
  • ☝️ Note: This is an adults only Oaxaca hotel

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.

The hotel’s layout emphasizes privacy, while its contemporary designs and warm interiors offer travelers a unique sense of secluded tranquility.

The attention to detail was unparalleled. The architecture and design were gorgeous, the pool was dreamy and the food we had for breakfast via room service was exceptional.

—Ashley (read more reviews)

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.

Oaxaca Hotels With Pools

7. Hotel Los Amantes

woman in a rooftop pool with view of colonial church in the distance | Hotel Los Amantes, Best Places to Stay in Oaxaca City
The roof terrace pool at Hotel los Amantes has some of the best views of Oaxaca City. (Photo: Expedia, Best hotels Oaxaca City Mexico)
  • 🏆 Perfect for: Couples, girl’s trips, solo travelers
  • ⭐️ Known for: Location, incredible views of the Oaxaca attractions
  • 🏨 View on Expedia.com
  • ☝️ Note: You need to book the terrace suite if you want the private pool pictured above

Hotel los Amantes Oaxaca City is located in a historical building that’s been carefully restored in a modern style, but preserved in a way that kept its colonial essence.

Los amantes means “the lovers,” and you will love staying at this contemporary hotel that’s right in the middle of the action.

Welcomed to the property by a taste of their own mezcal brand. Stunning modernist rooms and halls full of artwork. Upgraded to a higher category for a private rooftop terrace with a hot tub overlooking Santo Domingo!

—Christopher (read more reviews)

You’ll love the views from the stunning rooftop terrace and pool. From here, you can see the historical center of the city of Oaxaca, including the Temple of Santo Domingo de Guzmán and the open-air Guelaguetza Auditorium.

This is where the famous Guelaguetza Festival takes place — which is the second biggest Oaxaca festival after Day of the Dead in Oaxaca City.

Oaxaca Hotels With Pools

7. Casa de Adobe Gallery & Luxury Boutique Hotel

pool at Casa de Adobe Hotel in oaxaca city, mexico
Located not far from downtown, Casa de Adobe Hotel is ideal for relaxing. (Photo: Expedia, Hotels in Oaxaca with pool)
  • 🏆 Perfect for: Couples, honeymooners, solo travelers, girl’s trips
  • ⭐️ Known for: Service, pool, gym, spa-like feel
  • 🏨 View on Booking.com

La Casa de Adobe is a colonial-style hotel located in the San Felipe Oaxaca neighborhood, near the airport. If you want a quiet vacation, away from the (often) hectic Oaxaca City Centre — this is it!

Enjoy the swim-up bar, huge pool, and hot tub. Take in the lush garden views as you enjoy al fresco dining at the two onsite restaurants. Want to try traditional Oaxaca food? Don’t miss Clemente Restaurant.

It is located in a quiet neighborhood on a hill outside of the busy crowded noisy El Centro. [In] the surrounding walls of this beautifully landscaped hotel you can shut off the hustle and bustle of the town. Take a swim in the pool, have a cocktail and snack… The staff were extremely helpful and courteous…

—Robert (read more reviews)

With 18 rooms, you’ll get great service and a lot of personal attention from the staff. The rooms are very luxurious, with rainfall showers, 50 inch TVs (127 cm) with Netflix, air conditioning, bathrobes and daily housekeeping.

Note: Located in the San Felipe del Agua neighborhood, Casa de Adobe Hotel is about 15-20 minutes from Downtown Oaxaca City. Consider renting a car in Oaxaca if you plan to stay here; there is free parking.

Oaxaca Hotels With Pools

8. Hotel Parador de Alcalá

rooftop pool at Hotel Parador de Alcala | Best Places to Stay in Oaxaca City
Hotel Parador de Alcalá is a great value hotel in Oaxaca City. (Photo: Expedia, Best pool Oaxaca)
  • 🏆 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.

Great location in the centre of Oaxaca, yet quiet and calm when inside the hotel. The room was spacious with a large bed. Very comfortable overall and with friendly, helpful staff. The rooftop pool was a real bonus on hot days.

—Katerina (read more reviews)

With just 21 non smoking 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.

Oaxaca Hotels With Pools

9. Hotel CasAntica Oaxaca

swimming pool area at Hotel CasAntica Oaxaca | Best Places to Stay in Oaxaca City
Hotel CasAntica is a great option for budget travel in Oaxaca because it’s located in the perfect area of town, and has affordable room rates year-round. (Photo: Expedia)
  • 🏆 Perfect for: Solo travelers, families, budget travelers
  • ⭐️ Known for: Location, budget-friendly, pet friendly
  • 🏨 View on Booking.com

Located in the historic center of Oaxaca, Hotel CasAntica, is a quiet oasis in the heart of the city.

The hotel is located in a 16th Century Franciscan nun’s convent, but the historic building has of course been updated to include modern hotel amenities, like a pool and gym.

Location is brilliant, just a couple of blocks away from main plaza with cathedral. Swimming pool is small but perfect for a refreshing dip.

—Laura (read more reviews)

This hotel has a beautiful interior courtyard, balconies, a pool, a restaurant, and a location that can’t be beaten. It also has babysitting services if you need a little time away from the kids while traveling to Oaxaca.

Note: Some rooms are small and might not work if you’re traveling as a family. Double-check with the staff before booking your stay at Hotel CasAntica Oaxaca to see if they have family rooms available.

Oaxaca Hotels With Pools

10. Hotel Casa Oaxaca

pool area at Casa Oaxaca hotel
Besides the hotel and pool, don’t miss the Casa Oaxaca Restaurant, the best place to sample traditional cuisine from Oaxaca state. (Photo: Casa Oaxaca)
  • 🏆 Perfect for: First-time travelers, couples, solo travelers
  • ⭐️ Known for: Location, Casa Oaxaca restaurant, customer service, amenities, pool

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 considered one of the best Mexican chefs working today.

Our first trip to Oaxaca was magical and much of it had to do with where we stayed. Casa Oaxaca Hotel was the perfect launchpad for exploring the city…

—Jody (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.

Oaxaca Hotels With Pools

BONUS: 25 Additional Oaxaca Hotels With Pools

Looking for a Oaxaca pool hotel with a view? The Hotel Siglo XVII Art Gallery offers the best views in Oaxaca of the downtown sites. (Photo: Expedia)

Some travelers need a lot of choices when it comes to the best hotels with swimming pools in Oaxaca City! If you need a few more suggestions for hotels in Oaxaca with a pool, here are 25 more to look into:

  1. Hotel Casa Yunenisa Oaxaca
  2. Majagua Hotel Boutique (Adults Only Oaxaca Hotel)
  3. Hotel Boutique Cosijo
  4. Hotel Victoria Oaxaca
  5. Hotel Siglo XVII Art Gallery
  6. Grand Fiesta Americana Oaxaca
  7. Casa Bonita Hotel & Luxury Residence
  8. Suites Xadani
  9. Los Pilares Hotel
  10. Hacienda los Laureles
  11. La Noria Centro Historico
  12. Case de Arte (near Calzada Porfirio Diaz)
  13. Holiday Inn Express Oaxaca Centro Hotel, an IHG Hotel
  14. Hotel Fortin Plaza
  15. Arisa Oaxaca Hotel
  16. Hotel Angel Inn
  17. Hotel Hacienda Oaxaca
  18. Suites de La Parra
  19. Hotel Sin Nombre
  20. Fiesta Inn Oaxaca
  21. Hotel Casa de la Tía Tere
  22. Hotel Los Olivos Spa
  23. Mision de los Angeles
  24. Flavia Hotel Oaxaca
  25. Santa Helena Plaza
Oaxaca Hotels With Pools

Best Neighborhoods in Oaxaca City

Now that you know the best hotels in Oaxaca, you might be wondering, What are the safest areas in Oaxaca City? 

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 best Oaxaca neighborhoods mentioned below.

1. Centro Histórico (Downtown Oaxaca)

colorful flags hung above the street in downtown oaxaca city mexico
Oaxaca is a small town, but if this is your first visit, don’t miss the Free Walking Tour of Oaxaca City to get your bearings in this most central of all Oaxaca neighborhoods.

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.

💧 Best Hotels in Downtown Oaxaca With a Pool

Oaxaca Hotels With Pools

2. Santo Domingo Oaxaca City

Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzman in oaxaca city
Santo Domingo Temple is also home to the Jardin Etnobotanico de Oaxaca (Botanical Gardens) and Oaxaca Casa de la Culturas (Oaxaca Culture Center) — some of the best places to visit in Oaxaca.

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 With a Pool

Oaxaca Hotels With Pools

3. Barrio de Jalatlaco Oaxaca

colorful mural in the jalatlaco oaxaca neighborhood
Jalatlaco is known for its laid back vibes, Colonial buildings, and for having the best street art in Oaxaca. In my opinion, it’s the best area to stay in Oaxaca City.

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 Oaxaca With a Pool

Oaxaca Hotels With Pools

Oaxaca Travel Guide and FAQ

Oaxaca Hotel Casa Antigua
Hotel Casa Antigua, and most of the Oaxaca best places to stay are located in downtown Oaxaca City.

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 other Mexican states like Chiapas and Puebla.

🗺️ Oaxaca Map

The southern edge of the state sits on the Pacific Ocean. Oaxaca City is the state’s capital city, and located about six hours south of Mexico City, you can book direct flights.

What is the best time to visit Oaxaca Mexico?

The best time to travel to Oaxaca is during the dry season, October to May. If you don’t mind some rain during the Oaxaca rainy season, you will also get lower prices — as this is the slow season.

🌡️ Oaxaca weather

oaxaca weather chart

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

Many also visit Oaxaca de Juárez (Oaxaca City) for the Guelaguetza in July, the second biggest Oaxaca festival.

Oaxaca 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.

woman in front of a pin wall and I love Oaxaca sign (Oaxaca te amo)
Doing some Oaxaca solo travel? Check out this first-hand account from Poonam about her solo trip to Oaxaca.

⚠️ For a deep dive into this topic and a Oaxaca safety guide, check out Is Oaxaca Safe to Travel to Right Now?

That’s not to say 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.

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. ▶︎ Book your Oaxaca flights now!

eatery in oaxaca airport OAX
Oaxaca Airport (OAX Airport) is a small airport in Oaxaca Mexico.

You might see this airport called Xoxocotlán International Airport, but it’s still OAX. Note: Make sure you don’t confuse the work Xoxocotlán for Xochimilco, which is one of the best Oaxaca neighborhoods near downtown.

🚐 Best Oaxaca Airport transportation

Is there Uber in Oaxaca City?

No — There is no Oaxaca Uber service, and no Lyft in Oaxaca either.

passenger calling uber in oaxaca from their cell phone

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.

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.

taxi in oaxaca mexico

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.

ARE TAXIS SAFE IN OAXACA MEXICO?

For the majority of travelers, yes, taxis are perfectly safe to use in Oaxaca.

I personally prefer to call taxis via the DiDi Rider app, so I have a record of my trip and the price is already set for me, but you can also just hail a cab on the street.

How many days do you need in Oaxaca City?

Within Oaxaca City itself, you can see the highlights in 2-3 full days. However, many visitors could realistically spend a week in Oaxaca City — especially art, food and culture lovers.

Oaxaca Day of the Dead decorations
Colorful downtown in the city of Oaxaca, Mexico.

The best things to do near Oaxaca include exploring Hierve el Agua in San Lorenzo Albarradas, San Agustín Etla, Teotitlán Del Valle and San Pablo Villa de Mitla, a pueblo magico (magic town).

What is Oaxaca known for?

Wondering, Why is Oaxaca so popular? There are five things Oaxaca is known for — art, culture, the Oaxaca Day of the Dead celebration, mezcal and food.

In fact, Oaxaca is known as the Foodie Capital of Mexico, so try both the street food in Oaxaca and the restaurants — and of course, don’t miss these best Oaxaca mezcalerias (mezcal bars).

For a deep dive into this topic, check out this What is Oaxaca famous for? article. In it, you’ll learn even more about what makes Oaxaca unique.

Is Oaxaca City worth visiting?

Yes — Oaxaca is magical; it’s the Mexico people imagine Mexico to be.

woman dancing in a festival in oaxaca mexico
You’re going to fall in love with the art, food, beauty and friendly people of Oaxaca.

There’s everything from rich history, colorful festivals, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, locally-made Oaxacan mezcal, beautiful nature, colonial towns, indigenous artisan communities, and yummy Oaxacan food.

As you’ll usually need to take at least two flights to Oaxaca, Mexico, or even a flight and a bus, you might still be wondering if traveling to Oaxaca is worth it.

I hope this guide to Oaxaca made it clear that FU+K YES IT IS!

Final Thoughts: Top 25 Oaxaca Hotels With Pools

If you started this article not sure where to stay in Oaxaca Mexico, I hope you’ve found your place.

If not, our #1 choice is Quinta Real Oaxaca, one of the highest-rated and best hotels in Oaxaca City — and BONUS! it has a gorgeous pool.

For more of the best Oaxaca hotel options, both in Oaxaca City and on the beaches of Oaxaca, check out these related articles:

Oaxaca Travel Planning Guide

Should I buy Mexico travel insurance for Oaxaca?

100% YES! — With basic coverage averaging just $5-10 USD per day, enjoy peace of mind with a plan from Travel Insurance Master, one of the biggest names in travel insurance. (Read more)

Can you drink the water in Oaxaca?

No — You’ll want to buy this Water-To-Go Bottle, which filters your drinking water so you don’t get sick from drinking water in Mexico, and helps keep you hydrated while traveling to Oaxaca. (Read more)

Is it safe to rent a car in Oaxaca?

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

Will my phone work in Oaxaca?

Maybe — It depends on your company, so check with your provider. If you don’t have free Mexico service, buy a Telcel SIM Card. As Mexico’s largest carrier, Telcel has the best coverage of all Mexico SIM Cards. (Read more)

What’s the best way to book places to stay in Oaxaca?

For Oaxaca hotels, Booking.com is the best site. If you’re considering a Oaxaca Airbnb, also check VRBO, which is often cheaper than Airbnb. For the best Oaxaca hostels, use HostelWorld.

What do I pack for Oaxaca?

Head to the Ultimate Mexico Packing List + FREE Checklist Download to get all the info you need on packing for Mexico.

What’s the best site to buy Oaxaca flights?

For finding cheap Oaxaca flights, I recommend booking through Skyscanner.

Do I need a visa for Oaxaca?

Likely Not — U.S., Canadian and most European Passport holders don’t need a visa for Mexico; but you can check here to see if you need a Mexico travel visa.

The vast majority of travelers will receive a a passport stamp, or 180-Day FMM Tourist Visa upon arrival.