The 7 Safest and Best Oaxaca Neighborhoods
Looking for the Best neighborhoods in OAXACA City?
You’ve come to the right place because this article highlights the seven best Oaxaca neighborhoods for tourists, travelers and visitors. After combing through it, you’ll know exactly where to stay in Oaxaca City.
Located in Southern Mexico, Oaxaca de Juarez (AKA Oaxaca City) is one of the most beautiful cities in Mexico. It’s also one of its most culturally-rich, famed for lively festivals and yummy food — but there’s much more to the story.
Oaxaca City is one of the best places to visit in Mexico for many reasons, from history to art to food to nature. No matter why you want to visit Oaxaca, you’ll need to have a place to rest your head each night.
So the question remains: What’s the best neighborhood in Oaxaca City? This article is going to show you the best neighborhoods and the best hotels in each one, so let’s dive in!
Best Areas to Stay in Oaxaca: Quick Guide
Just looking for the cliff’s notes on the best Oaxaca City neighborhoods? No worries! This list will quickly tell you everything you need to know about the bet neighborhoods of Oaxaca City.
📸 Best Neighborhoods in Oaxaca for Sightseeing: Centro Historico, Zocalo, Santo Domingo, Barrio de Jalatlaco
🏩 Best Neighborhoods in Oaxaca to Stay for First Timers: Centro Historico, Zocalo, Santo Domingo, Barrio de Jalatlaco
🍽️ Best Neighborhoods in Oaxaca for Food, Bars and Restaurants: Centro Historico, Santo Domingo, Barrio de Jalatlaco
🛍️ Best Neighborhoods in Oaxaca for Shopping: Centro Historico, Barrio de Jalatlaco, Santo Domingo
🥂 Best Neighborhood in Oaxaca for Nightlife: Centro Historico, Barrio de Jalatlaco, Santo Domingo
😎 Best Neighborhoods in Oaxaca for a Local Vibe: Barrio de Jalatlaco, Barrio de Xochimilco, Barrio de la Noria
😍 Most Romantic Neighborhoods in Oaxaca: Centro Historico, Barrio de Jalatlaco
👨👩👧👧 Best Neighborhoods in Oaxaca for Families: Centro Historico, Barrio de la Noria, Barrio de Xochimilco
Best Oaxaca Neighborhoods for Visitors
Oaxaca Neighborhoods Map
Need a visual to understand where all the best neighborhoods to stay in Oaxaca are located? 👀 As a visual person myself, I get it!
For your convenience, all seven of the best neighborhoods in Oaxaca City Mexico have been pinned to the map above. You can use this Oaxaca neighborhood map to get your bearings, and plan an epic trip.
If you’re looking for hotels within all the best parts of town, check out these guides:
Best Oaxaca Neighborhoods for Visitors
What are the safest areas of Oaxaca City?
When it comes to where to stay in Oaxaca City, you can’t go wrong with downtown. Centro Historico Oaxaca is the main tourist hub, brimming with activity and history — and it’s actually a UNESCO World Heritage Site!
Overall, none of the areas mentioned in this article aren’t safe. In fact, Oaxaca City is considered one of the safest cities in Mexico for visitors.
Now, that’s not to say bad things don’t happen here; they do. However, if you use the same “travel common sense” you would when visiting any new place, you should be just fine in Oaxaca.
Are there any unsafe areas of Oaxaca to avoid?
Not really, but if this is your first time traveling to Oaxaca, or Mexico itself, you’ll want to stick to the general downtown area at night. This is where you’ll find all the best things to do in Oaxaca City anyway.
Want to venture outside of the city? The safest way to do so is always with a local tour guide who knows the area well. Check out these articles so you know the best Oaxaca tours to book:
Best Oaxaca Neighborhoods for Visitors
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 listed below.
Besides being safe, these are the areas you’ll find all the top Oaxaca sites, best restaurants in Oaxaca City, coolest museums, best Oaxaca mezcal bars, artisan shops, local markets in Oaxaca, street tacos, and more.
1. Centro Histórico: Downtown Oaxaca
Centro Historico, or Historic Downtown Oaxaca, is one of the best places to stay in Oaxaca — as are most downtown areas in cities all over the world. In short: You can’t go wrong staying in Oaxaca Downtown.
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
- Quinta Real Oaxaca
- Pug Seal Oaxaca, one of the most unique places to stay in Oaxaca City
- Hotel Escondido Oaxaca City
- Grand Fiesta Americana Oaxaca
- One Oaxaca Centro Hotel
- Casa de las Bugambilias Oaxaca
- Hotel Casa Oaxaca
Best Oaxaca Neighborhoods for Visitors
2. Oaxaca Zocalo: Main Square
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 Oaxaca markets (mercados), art galleries, historic sites, top attractions, and more.
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 Oaxaca Zocalo
Best Oaxaca Neighborhoods for Visitors
3. 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 Oaxaca markets (mercados), art galleries, historic sites, and more.
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 Gardens — two of the best placs to visit in Oaxaca Mexico.
🏩 Best Hotels in Santo Domingo Oaxaca
Best Oaxaca Neighborhoods for Visitors
4. Barrio de la Noria Oaxaca City
While Oaxaca City is a fun, festive place, it is also quite loud. If you want to stay in the downtown area, but long for a relaxing night’s sleep, La Noria is a better option than Santo Domingo — which is definitely on the loud side.
In the southern half of downtown, there’s Barrio de la Noria, a quiet, residential area lined with colorful, single-story houses, and a few family-run Oaxaca restaurants, like Málibu 114, a locals’ favorite.
Barrio de la Noria borders downtown to the southeast, and spans the area along Calle la Noria. To the west, there’s Calle de Armenta y López; to the east, Calle Gonzáles Ortega; and to the south, Periférico (Highway 175).
In Barrio de la Noria, you’re still within walking distance of the all top Oaxaca attractions, including the Zocalo, which is a 10-15 minute walk.
🏩 Best Hotels in La Noria Oaxaca
Best Oaxaca Neighborhoods for Visitors
5. Barrio de Jalatlaco 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 — which this hipster Oaxaca neighborhood is known for.
Its just a short 10 minute walk from downtown and most major Oaxaca attractions, but it has a locals’ feel. There’s hip coffee shops with free WiFi, family-run restaurants, quirky bars with live music and unique local shops.
When visiting, spend some time strolling the quirky Calle Aldama Street, and don’t miss the Templo San Matías Jalatlaco Cathedral.
🏩 Best Hotels in Jalatlaco
Best Oaxaca Neighborhoods for Visitors
6. Barrio de Xochimilco Oaxaca City
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 colorful streets, artisan shops, restaurants serving traditional Oaxacan cuisine like mole and tlayudas, and centuries-old history — after all, this was the ancient Zapotec capital.
Here, you’re still within easy walking distance of downtown, but far enough on the outskirts that you don’t feel like you’re surrounded by tourists.
If you’re want something a bit more wallet-friendly than the city center of downtown, the quiet, charming and low-key Xochimilco neighborhood Oaxaca is the place for you.
🏩 Best Hotels in Xochimilco Oaxaca
Best Oaxaca Neighborhoods for Visitors
7. 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 being in the city centre — 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. If you’re wondering about the best area to live in Oaxaca City, this is one of them.
In Reforma, you’ll have authentic local restaurants (like the amazing Itanoni), as well as international dining options and boutique hotels. What you won’t find are luxury hotels with posh rooms; for those, head to downtown.
🏩 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 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
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.
⚠️ 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.
You might see this airport called Xoxocotlán International Airport, but it’s still OAX. ▶Book your Oaxaca flights now!
🚐 Best Oaxaca Airport transportation
Is there Uber in Oaxaca City?
No — There is no Oaxaca Uber service, and no Lyft in Oaxaca either.
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.
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.
If you want to explore the artisan towns and unique areas surrounding the city, you’ll want another 1-2 full days. 🚗 Oaxaca City Pro Tip: The best way to do this is by renting a car in Oaxaca and driving.
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) and UNESCO Site.
Want to visit the best Oaxaca beaches — including Puerto Escondido, Zipolite, Huatulco, San Agustinillo and Mazunte? Then you’ll want another 3-4 full days.
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).
Is Oaxaca City worth visiting?
Yes — Oaxaca is magical; it’s the Mexico people imagine Mexico to be.
There’s everything from rich history, colorful festivals, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, locally-made Oaxacan mezcal, beautiful nature, colonial architecture, indigenous artisan communities, and of course, the 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: Best Places to Stay in Oaxaca City
If you started reading this article not sure where to stay in Oaxaca Mexico, I hope you’ve now picked a neighborhood and a hotel — or even splurged on one of these best boutique hotels in Oaxaca City.
No matter your accommodation, 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 when traveling to Oaxaca.