The 30 Best Things to Do in Oaxaca City Mexico for a Memorable Trip
Wondering, What is there to do in Oaxaca?
You’ve come to the right place, because this article will highlight the 30 best things to do in Oaxaca City, Mexico. It also includes information about the best Oaxaca day trips, and a few places located just outside the city.
Oaxaca City itself is walkable, so you won’t need a rental car in Oaxaca for the city. If you’re venturing outside downtown to the things to do near Oaxaca City, you’ll want a car, or if you prefer not to drive, you can book a tour.
With all the things to do in Oaxaca City, Oaxaca, listed below, you’ll see recommended tours if the place is located outside of the city.
If you have the time and space on your Oaxaca itinerary, make sure to venture outside the city, where some of the top sites are located.
Ready to get to this list of the 30 best things to do in Oaxaca City? Let’s dive in!
Best Things to Do in Oaxaca City Mexico
1. Hierve el Agua Oaxaca
Located about 45 miles from Oaxaca City, is perhaps Oaxaca’s most famous natural wonder — Hierve el Agua, which means boiling water.
While the natural mineral pools are the most photographed places here, you should also check out the amazing “cascadas” (waterfalls).
“Cascadas” is in quotes because there are two cliff faces at Hierve el Agua that look like waterfalls.
They are covered in calcified mineral deposits, which just so happen to look like falling water. You can see this from afar at the pools, or you can hike down for a closer look.
🏆 best HIERVE EL AGUA TOURS in Oaxaca
The easiest way to experience Hierve el Agua? On a tour of Hierve el Agua, of course!
Check out these great and varied tours of Hierve el Agua, ranging from half- and full-day trips to one of the best Oaxaca places to visit.
Is Hierve el Agua open?
Yes — Hierve el Agua reopened to the public in October 2021 after being closed for about 1.5 years. Head to Hierve el Agua Oaxaca Mexico: Ultimate Visitor’s Guide for more info.
Best Things to Do in Oaxaca City Mexico
2. Monte Alban Oaxaca Ruins
Located about 30 minutes outside of the Oaxaca City Center, Monte Alban is the most-visited of all archeological sites and ancient ruins in Oaxaca Mexico.
It is among the best pyramids and ruins in Mexico, and a Oaxaca must see for all visitors.
You can visit on your own, but tours of Monte Alban means having a guide explain all the ways this site is so important — and there are many.
If you’re visiting on your own, arrive early to beat the crowds and the midday sun; Monte Albán opens at 8am.
When visiting, remember to wear a hat, eco-friendly sunscreen, sunglasses and comfortable shoes.
Don’t forget to bring your Water-To-Go Bottle, which filters your water so you don’t get sick in Mexico, and keeps you hydrated ▶︎ Use code SOLO15 for 15% OFF your order.
🏆 Best Monte alban tours in Oaxaca
Best Things to Do in Oaxaca City Mexico
3. Oaxaca Centro Historico and Zocalo
While it may just look like a beautiful colonial city now, Oaxaca City and Centro de Oaxaca (Downtown Oaxaca), dates back to 1529 when it was originally occupied by the native Oaxaca Zapotec people.
Today, it is a mix of old and new. Out of the hundreds of sites listed on UNESCO’s World Heritage Site list, very few entire cities have made the cut, but Oaxaca City does.
You can get to know it on the Oaxaca Free Walking Tour. Note: Though free, tips are customary. Consider tipping at least $100 MX pesos per person ($5 USD).
🏆 Best Oaxaca tours in the city
Best Things to Do in Oaxaca City Mexico
4. Take a Oaxaca Cooking Class
If there’s one thing Oaxaca is known for — it’s food!
However, Oaxacan cuisine isn’t what most people know as traditional Mexican food, because things like tacos, burritos and nachos aren’t the traditional foods of Oaxaca.
👩🍳 This Traditional Oaxacan Cooking Class with Sonia Silvia is one of the highest rated tours in Oaxaca City.
Instead, you’ll find traditional dishes and local food options like tlayudas, mole, tamales oaxaqueños, memelas, tetelas, chapulines, enmoladas, tejate, cafe de olla and nieves (a type of sorbet ice cream hybrid).
Have no idea what any of that is?! You can learn about it, cook it, and of course, eat it, in these best cooking classes in Oaxaca City.
👩🍳 Best Oaxaca Cooking Classes
Best Things to Do in Oaxaca City Mexico
5. Mitla Oaxaca Pueblo Magico
After Monte Alban, Oaxaca’s second most important archeological site is in Mitla. It is a Oaxaca Mexico UNESCO World Heritage site, along with Prehistoric Caves of Yagul.
As Mitla is easy to access, and the caves are not, most tours and visitors will only go to Mitla, Oaxaca.
🇲🇽 Oaxaca UNESCO World Heritage Sites
There are not one, but three UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Oaxaca — Historic Downtown Oaxaca City, Monte Alban Ruins, and the Prehistoric Caves of Yagul and Mitla — and all three belong on your What to do in Oaxaca City Mexico list.
🏆 Best Mitla Oaxaca tours
Best Things to Do in Oaxaca City Mexico
6. El Tule Tree (World’s Widest Tree Trunk)
A must see Oaxaca vacation site!
El Tule (The tree of enlightenment) is a giant Montezuma cypress tree on the grounds of the gorgeous Templo Santa María de la Asunción church in the pueblo (small town) of Santa Maria del Tule, Oaxaca Mexico.
It has the world’s biggest tree trunk at 46-feet (14 m), which takes at least 30 people with clasped hands to wrap around. Scientists date this tree at about 2,000-years-old.
However, the Zapotec people of Oaxaca say the Wind God Ehécatl planted it about 1,400 years ago. Regardless of age, its so impressive in person, and one of the best things to see in Oaxaca City.
🌳 el tule Oaxaca tours
Best Things to Do in Oaxaca City Mexico
7. Oaxaca Botanical Gardens
To see more of the native Oaxaca plants, head to Jardin Etnobotanico de Oaxaca (Oaxaca City Botanical Garden), located in downtown next to Templo de Santo Domingo.
This 2.5-acre garden showcases the immense biodiversity in Oaxaca with hundreds of local plants and cacti. Due to the fragility of the garden’s ecosystem, you can only enter with a guided tour.
🌵 Oaxaca Travel Tip: Oaxaca Botanical Garden Tours
English tours take place Monday to Saturday at 11am, and last two hours. Oaxaca Botanical Garden tours cost $100 pesos ($5 USD) per person. If you have the time, this is one of the best things to do in Oaxaca Centro.
Best Things to Do in Oaxaca City Mexico
8. Pasillo de Humo in Mercado 20 Noviembre Market
Located inside the November 20 Market, you’ll find Pasillo de Humo, which means Smoke Hall or Smoke Alley.
Here, there are rows of vendors selling meats and veggies a la carte that you can buy and have them cooked al carbon (over charcoal) for a delicious smoky flavor.
If this will be your first visit to the Oaxaca Pasillo de Humo, it can be intimidating — especially if you don’t speak Spanish.
For this reason, I recommend going on the Eating with a Local at the Markets tour, or checking out this YouTube video about the market. The markets offer one of the best ways to experience local life, but they’re also hectic.
Best Things to Do in Oaxaca City Mexico
9. Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzman
Only have 2 or 3 days in Oaxaca? Then don’t miss the Santo Domingo Temple, Museo de las Culturas and Jardín Etnobotánico de Oaxaca, all located next to one another.
The temple architecture is beautiful, and the museum has 14 rooms with permanent exhibitions about the history of Oaxaca.
Best Things to Do in Oaxaca City Mexico
10. Oaxaca Photoshoot with a Pro
Looking for unique things to do in Oaxaca Mexico? Join Kabir and Hugo, professional photographers Oaxaca locals, on a photoshoot in picturesque Oaxaca City.
You’ll go to all the top places to visit in Oaxaca, like Santo Domingo Church and Macedonio Alcalá Theater, and some Oaxaca off the beaten path hidden gems.
Best Things to Do in Oaxaca City Mexico
11. Try Doña Vale Memelas: As Seen on Netflix
Head to Mercado Central de Abastos, the largest market in Oaxaca City, to sample the famous memelas from Doña Vale.
She’s been well known for her memelas and salsa morita for years, but became a local celeb after appearing in an episode of Netflix: Street Food Latin America.
Best Things to Do in Oaxaca City Mexico
12. Street Art Bike Tour of Oaxaca
Join Carlos Alberto, a Oaxaca City local, on a Oaxaca bike tour through three of the city’s best neighborhoods.
You’ll pass by colorful houses, buildings with unique architecture, all the top Oaxaca City sites, the coolest Oaxaca street art, and more.
Best Things to Do in Oaxaca City Mexico
13. Museo Textil de Oaxaca (Oaxaca Textile Museum)
The architecture of the Oaxaca Textile Museum is just as impressive as the colorful textiles inside.
If you happen to be visiting during Oaxaca Day of the Dead, you’ll find it covered in thousands of marigold flowers, for a beautiful smell and look 🌼
This is by no means a huge museum, but head inside to see the traditional Oaxacan textiles and beautifully-displayed Oaxaca handicrafts. (For a more immersive experience, head to these Oaxaca artisan towns.)
The museum gift shop also sells artisan textiles by locals in the areas surrounding Oaxaca City. Admission to the Oaxaca Textile Museum is FREE.
Best Things to Do in Oaxaca City Mexico
14. Visit the Best Oaxaca Mezcal Bars
Mezcal is a distilled spirit that can be made from more than 30 varieties of the maguey (agave plants).
It is meant to be sipped and savored, because mezcal has an intense flavor that’s quite complex. If mezcal sounds like tequila to you — it kind of is.
Much like how champagne is essentially a sparkling wine from the city of Champagne, France, tequila is a kind of mezcal from the city of Tequila, Mexico that’s made only with blue agave.
If Tequila is the land of tequila, Oaxaca is the land of mezcal.
To show how much Oaxacans love their mezcal, there’s this common saying: Para todo mal, mezcal. Para todo bien, también. This means, “For everything good, mezcal. For everything bad, mezcal.”
🥃 When visiting, make sure to check out these best mezcalerias in Oaxaca City:
1. La Mezcaloteca Mezcal Tasting Room
La Mezcaloteca Oaxaca is part mezcal school, part tasting room. After your time here, you can take your knowledge of mezcal to all other mezcalerias in Oaxaca you visit.
🥃 Note: There’s free admission, but reservations are required if you want to do a full tasting.
2. La Casa del Mezcal
This is one of the oldest mezcal bars in Oaxaca City, founded in 1935, which offers many different varieties of mezcal.
It has a charming vintage aesthetic, and you’ll feel like you’ve traveled back in time when you walk through the doors at La Casa del Mezcal Oaxaca.
3. La Mezcalerita
La Mezcalerita Oaxaca has a casual atmosphere, with three cozy rooms downstairs and a big rooftop patio. Plus, one of the largest selections of mezcal in Oaxaca City!
There are a lot of rooftops in Oaxaca to choose from, so make sure you visit this one (or any of them) to enjoy the beautiful Oaxaca sunset and live music one evening.
Along with their extensive list of Oaxaca mezcals, they also have a huge list of artisanal beers from Mexico. La Mezcalerita is also a brewery so this is both a great Oaxaca mezcaleria and one of the best Oaxaca beer bars.
Best Things to Do in Oaxaca City Mexico
15. Ancient Temazcal Ritual (Sweat Lodge)
For some self care, you’ll want to put a temazcal ceremony on your list of things to do in Oaxaca City.
Temazcal is a pre-hispanic cleansing and purification ritual, similar to a Native American sweat lodge — so expect to sweat a lot.
The Ceviarem Temazcal Oaxaca is located right outside downtown Oaxaca City, but for a more authentic experience, head about 45 minutes out of the city to Ex Hacienda San Antonio Hotel & Spa.
Their RenaSiendo en Oaxaca Temazcal Ceremony is an authentic temazcal ceremony. It’s located a bit outside of the main tourist area, but that’s only more of a good reason to had there if you want an authentic experience.
Best Things to Do in Oaxaca City Mexico
16. Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca (Oaxaca Culture Museum)
After visiting the Santo Domingo de Guzman Church and Oaxaca Botanical Garden, head next door to the Oaxaca Culture Museum.
Also called the Oaxaca Culture Center and Museum of Cultures, the museum has 14 rooms with exhibits that chronicle the history of Oaxaca State.
🎨 More of the Best Oaxaca Museums
There are quite a few more museums in Oaxaca City to choose from.
Besides the Oaxaca Cultural Center and Textile Museum already listed, there’s also the Museum of Contemporary Art (MACO), the Rufino Tamayo Museum and the Oaxaca Stamp Museum.
Best Things to Do in Oaxaca City Mexico
17. Learn How Mezcal is Made at El Rey de Matatlan
Oaxaca is the top agave producing state in Mexico, and where most Mexican mezcal comes from — so there’s a plethora of agave fields.
Many are not actually open to the public, but some, like El Rey de Matatlan, has distillery tours, a sampling station and store on-site.
Admittedly, El Rey de Matatlan Oaxaca is a bit touristy. If you want to visit some of the more off the beaten path Oaxaca City agave farms, join a local guide one of these highly-rated Oaxaca City mezcal tours.
Best Things to Do in Oaxaca City Mexico
18. Oaxaca Artisan Villages
There are eight regions of Oaxaca, each different from the other. One of the main distinguishing features is the art that comes from each area.
The most commonly visited towns are listed below — and if you want to buy souvenirs in Oaxaca, these art towns in Oaxaca are the places you need to go.
1. San Bartolo Coyotepec: Black Pottery Town
In the Oaxacan black pottery town of San Bartolo Coyotepec you get to see where the famous barro negro (black clay) comes from, and the artisans who make it.
This pottery was first made by Doña Rosa hundreds of years ago, and is still the town’s main source of income today.
2. Santo Tomás Jalieza: Textile and Rug Town
In Santo Tomás Jalieza Oaxaca, you’ll see the entire textile-making process — from hand-dying the yarn with natural materials, to how the famous Oaxacan rugs are made on a loom.
There’s a large selection of rugs for sale, with shipping available.
3. San Martin Tilcajete: Alebrije Town
Alebrijes (pronounced al-lay-bree-hays) are iconic and colorful Mexican folk art creations, made from paper maché or carved from wood.
On first glance, they look like animal figures — but when you look closer, you’ll see each one combines a few animals into one figure.
👩🎨 For a unique Oaxaca experience, join the Learn to Paint Your Own Alebrije class.
First made with paper mache by artist Pedro Linares in Mexico City, Manuel Jiménez Ramírez is the artist credited with making the wooden Oaxacan alebrijes that are so popular today.
He’s one of the most famous people from Oaxaca.
Nowadays, many visitors head to the pueblo (small town) of San Martín Tilcajete, Oaxaca, Mexico to buy their own unique alebrije figure. As these are handmade, no two alebrijes are alike.
Best Things to Do in Oaxaca City Mexico
19. Eat the 7 Moles of Oaxaca
Wondering, What food is Oaxaca known for? It’s mole (pronounced moe-lay), and there are seven Oaxaca moles (listed below).
Mole is also the national dish of Mexico, and it’s also made in other states like Chiapas and Puebla, which both border the state of Oaxaca.
- Mole Negro: Black Mole, the most popular type.
- Mole Poblano: AKA Mole Rojo, or Red Mole. Mole almendrado (almond mole) is a common variation of mole poblano.
- Mole Colorado: Dark Red Mole
- Mole Verde: Green Mole
- Mole Amarillo: Yellow Mole
- Mole Manchamantel
- Mole Chichilo
🤔 What is mole?
Oaxacan mole is unique because it’s a marinade, a sauce and a full meal.
Mole is commonly served with rice and chicken or turkey, or used as a sauce, as with enmoladas. This is a Oaxacan take on enchiladas, which are usually topped with salsa, but mole is used in Oaxaca.
Mole recipes vary, but generally consist of these ingredients: chiles, red and green tomatoes, fruit, chocolate, local spices, nuts and seeds.
The ingredients are crushed and worked into a paste, then mixed with water or stock, and slow-cooked for hours (or days) until thick.
Best Things to Do in Oaxaca City Mexico
20. Mercado Benito Juárez Market Visit
One of the best things to do in Oaxaca City is just strolling the city’s mercados, or local markets.
The most well-known and best market in Oaxaca is Benito Juarez Market, perfect for everything from buying souvenirs, to sampling Oaxacan food and drinks, like aguas casildas.
Opened in 1926 by the late Casilda Flores Morales, Aguas Casilda in Mercado Benito Juárez Market is where the locals go for their aguas casildas (a local variation of aguas frescas).
Make sure to try the chilacayote, a family recipe that’s been passed down for generations.
🛍️ Sunday Market in Tlacolula
If you’re visiting Oaxaca on a Sunday, head to the massive Mercado de Tlacolula in the nearby city of Tlacolula.
Vendors from all over the Oaxaca Valleys come here to sell everything from farm-to-table food and mezcal, to traditional clothing to artesanias (handmade crafts).
Best Things to Do in Oaxaca City Mexico
21. Oaxaca Pueblos Mancomunados
For a unique, off the beaten path Oaxaca experience, head into the Sierra Norte mountains on a trekking adventure to the Pueblos Mancomunados.
These eight self-governing indigenous Zapotec villages, located a few hours from Oaxaca City, provide immersive Mexico ecotourism experiences.
Best Things to Do in Oaxaca City Mexico
22. Top 10 Best Restaurants in Oaxaca City
For a more complete list, check out the 40 Best Restaurants in Oaxaca City for Foodies. As a bonus, the article also lists the 5 Best Mezcal Bars in Oaxaca as well.
1. Casa Oaxaca: Alejandro Ruiz’s famed Oaxacan eatery, located at the Casa Oaxaca Hotel. Order a bottle of Mexican wine, the crispy duck tacos, any of their moles — and do not skip dessert.
🍷Oaxaca Travel Tip: Make a reservation for a rooftop table.
2. El Destilado: Want to splurge on an amazing meal? Do the 12-course chef’s tasting menu with drink pairing at this fine dining restaurant in Oaxaca that serves innovative and delicious food.
3. Criollo: The seven-course tasting menu at Criollo Oaxaca changes daily, but you can expect an elevated spin on classic Oaxacan foods from chefs Enrique Olvera (of Pujol Mexico City) and Luis Arellano.
4. Ancestral Cocina Tradicional: You can try all seven moles here, or enjoy their Mole and Mezcal Experience.
5. La Olla Oaxaca: The menu changes seasonally, so try the menu del dia (menu of the day) for the freshest local cuisine.
6. Tlayudas Libres: Order a tlayuda and top it with cecina, tasajo or chorizo, if you eat meat.
7. Boulenc Oaxaca Bakery: Order shakshuka for breakfast, a brick-oven pizza for lunch, and a pastry for dessert, at what’s known to be the best bakery in Oaxaca.
8. Itanoni Oaxaca: Order tetelas, de ese con frijoles refritos (refried beans), tamales, memelas and wash it all down with tascalate or agua fresca (fresh fruit water).
🤔 Not sure what any of that means?! Learn to eat like a local on this tour.
9. Las Quince Letras: Owned and run by Oaxaca culinary legend, Celia Florián. Order the trilogía de moles (trilogy of moles) to sample three types of mole in one meal.
10. Lechoncito de Oro: A must try taqueria (Oaxaca taco shop)! This late-night street taco stand only serves chicharron (fried pork skin) and pierna (pork leg), so try one of each.
Beloved by locals, they serve some of the best tacos in Oaxaca City.
Best Things to Do in Oaxaca City Mexico
23. Best Shopping in Oaxaca: ARIPO Oaxaca Artisan Market
There are eight regions of Oaxaca, each different from the other.
The Instituto de Artesanias Oaxaqueños, or ARIPO, is the best place to shop for jewelry, clothing, art, textiles, homewares, crafts and artisanal products from each Oaxaca region. You can also shop ARIPO online.
🛍 Best Shopping in Oaxaca City
Want to do a bit more Oaxaca shopping? Great choice; the local art from Oaxaca is beautiful, and most places to shop in Oaxaca City are fair trade, like these:
- Don Remigio Mestas
- Colectivo 1050°
- Marchanta
- Silvia Suarez
- MisMezcales
- Xico 303
- Tienda Q
Best Things to Do in Oaxaca City Mexico
24. Andador de Macedonia Alcalá Pedestrian-Only Street
Calle Macedonia Alcala is a main thoroughfare in Oaxaca City, as it connects the Santo Domingo Church with the Oaxaca Zocalo (Town Square).
As you walk this lively street, you’ll pass all the best Oaxaca art galleries, shops, bars, restaurants, museums and more.
Best Things to Do in Oaxaca City Mexico
25. Sip Hot Chocolate at Mayordomo Oaxaca
Chocolate has been a staple food throughout Mexico since prehispanic times.
In Oaxaca, one of the top regions for cacao beans in Mexico, you’ll find it used more for hot chocolate than eaten straight up. It’s also one of the main ingredients in mole negro (black mole).
While often prepared with milk, chocolate oaxaqueño (Oaxacan hot chocolate) is made with chocolate and water.
It is still frothy like in the United States because this chocolate beverage is hand-spun using a wooden whisk called a molinillo, which creates a foamy top.
The best place to try traditional Oaxaca hot chocolate is Mayordomo Oaxaca City.
There are several locations throughout Downtown Oaxaca City, where you can see the chocolate being made, and also enjoy free samples of their products.
☕️ Also try Tejate in Oaxaca
Tejate (pronounced tay-ha-tay) is a centuries-old chocolate and corn drink. While that flavor combo may not sound appetizing, this ancient drink has stood the taste test of time.
In fact, Oaxacans love their tejate so much, they call it the bebida de los dioses (drink of the gods).
Best Things to Do in Oaxaca City Mexico
26. Colorful Jalatlaco Neighborhood
Love street art, colorful buildings and cute cafes? Then head to the hippest of all Oaxaca neighborhoods — Jalatlaco (pronounced ha-lat-lack-oh).
It is located just outside of Centro Historico and the Zocalo, and makes for a fun, leisurely place to just stroll around.
Not sure where to stay in Oaxaca City? There are some great places here, and it’s a lot less touristy than Centro Historico so you get a more authentic locals’ vibe.
Of the best hotels in Jalatlaco, you’ll fall in love with City Centro Hotel, the famous pink hotel in Oaxaca City.
Best Things to Do in Oaxaca City Mexico
27. Xochimilco Aqueduct in Oaxaca City
Xochimilco (pronounced so-chee-mill-co) is the oldest Oaxaca City neighborhood. It is located just north of downtown, and known for colorful buildings and history.
One of the coolest things in Xochimilco is an 18th century aqueduct that runs along Callejon Rufino Tamayo street.
Best Things to Do in Oaxaca City Mexico
28. Teotitlán Del Valle Zapotec Village
Teotitlan del Valle Oaxaca is a quiet, picturesque pueblo (small town), located about 18 miles (30 km) from Downtown Oaxaca. The town is known for its history, culture, tradition, and the colorful rugs made here by local weavers.
Besides a great place to buy Oaxaca carpets (the prices are often cheapest here because it’s not very touristy), there’s other things to do in Teotitlan del Valle.
Don’t miss the beautiful hike to Cerro Picacho Mountain and the Iglesia Preciosa Sangre de Cristo church and ruins.
Best Things to Do in Oaxaca City Mexico
29. Ex Convento de Cuilapam de Guerrero
Located just outside Oaxaca City, Cuilápam Convent is a 16th century church and temple space.
Photographers will love the aesthetics at this ancient site, and the temple itself is unique as it blends the pre-hispanic religions of indigenous people with Catholicism.
Note: You will see this city spelled as Cuilápan de Guerrero or Cuilápam de Guerrero, but both refer to the same place in Oaxaca.
Unless you have a rental car, you’ll want to visit on a tour. Many tours, like the Oaxaca Antigua Full-Day Tour, make a stop at Cuilápam Convent, along with other must see Oaxaca sites like Monte Alban archeological zone.
Best Things to Do in Oaxaca City Mexico
30. Free Walking Tour of Oaxaca City
Looking for free things to do in Oaxaca City? The Oaxaca Free Walking Tour is among the top things to do in Oaxaca City, and makes a great first item on your Oaxaca itinerary.
🤑 Note: Though free, it is customary to tip your guide at least $100 pesos ($5 USD) per person.
The tour is led by local guides, and a great way to see the city’s highlights, off the beaten tracks sites and best Oaxaca neighborhoods. You’ll also learn some history and fun facts about Oaxaca along the way.
🚉 Oaxaca Tram Tour
If you don’t want to walk around, there’s the Tranvía el Alebrije Oaxaca Tram Tour. The tour is only in Spanish, but even if you don’t understand the words, it’s a nice way to see the whole downtown area without walking.
The tram costs $70 MXN pesos (about $4 USD). Of course, prices can vary, so please defer to what the tram operator tells you.
Best Things to Do in Oaxaca City Map
For your convenience, all the places to see in Oaxaca City mentioned in this article have been pinned to the map above.
I hope it makes planning your trip to Oaxaca Mexico a little easier, so all you have to do is enjoy!
Best Things to Do in Oaxaca City Mexico
Best Day Trips from Oaxaca Itinerary
This article covered a mix of things to do in Oaxaca City itself, and things to do in Oaxaca Mexico’s surrounding areas. If you want to take a Oaxaca road trip, keep reading.
There are plenty of Oaxaca tours you can take that combine the best Oaxaca sites, or you can go on your own in a rental car. Here are the top places to visit on a day trip from Oaxaca City:
- Hierve el Agua hot springs
- Monte Alban pyramids
- Mitla Oaxaca pueblo magico (magic town)
- The giant El Tule tree
- The agave fields at El Rey de Matatlan
- The Oaxaca artisan towns
🏝️ Beaches of Oaxaca
Puerto Escondido, Bahias de Huatulco, Mazunte, Zipolite and the rest of the best Oaxaca beaches on the Pacific Coast are far from the city.
You can not visit any beaches in Oaxaca on a day trip, but if you also want to hit the beach, check out the 21 Best Beaches in Oaxaca, and these other blogs about Oaxaca beahces:
Best Oaxaca Festivals
1. La Guelaguetza Festival: Mid-July
The Guelaguetza (pronounced geh-la-get-zah) is Oaxaca’s most famous folk festival. In fact, it has been called the largest folkloric festival on the Americas continent, and one of the top cultural events in Oaxaca.
This annual event takes place on two Mondays in mid- to late-July; its dates vary from year to year.
The Guelaguetza festival brings together people from all regions of Oaxaca to share their food, textiles and culture through dances, presentations and gift exchanges.
In fact, Guelaguetza comes from the Zapotec word, guendalezaa, meaning an offering or a gift.
Best Things to Do in Oaxaca City Mexico
2. Dia de Muertos: November 1-2
Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) is one of the biggest festivals, not only in Oaxaca, but in all of Mexico. I went in 2018 and 2022, and can’t recommend it enough.
Head to Day of the Dead in Oaxaca: Everything You Need to Know to learn more about this Oaxaca festival.
🌼💀🌼 When is Day of the Dead in Oaxaca City?
The city actually begins prepping for the holiday and decorating about 7-10 days before the actual festival. Oaxaca hosts one of the best day of the dead celebrations in Mexico, so it’s an elaborate affair.
Best Things to Do in Oaxaca City Mexico
3. Night of the Radishes: December 23
Looking for unusual things to do in Oaxaca Mexico?
Look no further than the annual Night of the Radishes. On December 23rd each year, Oaxaca City hosts the world’s largest radish carving festival. Yes, this is a real thing, and one of the city’s most special events.
If you’re traveling to Oaxaca in December for Christmas, make sure you visit the festival to see the radishes carved into nacimientos (Nativity scenes) and other designs.
For more info on the Oaxaca Night of the Radishes Festival, head here. It is one of the highlights Oaxaca has if you’re visiting Oaxaca in December, and one of the best things to do in Oaxaca in December.
Best Things to Do in Oaxaca City Mexico
4. Semana Santa (Holy Week): March or April
Semana Santa, or Holy Week, is a big deal in Mexico. It’s one of the most important holidays for many Oaxacan people.
This is the week leading up to Easter (also called Easter Week), and in a country that’s 80% Catholic, this week-long holiday is an interesting time to visit Mexico, especially Taxco, Mexico, which has an elaborate festival.
The Oaxaca Semana Santa festival has parades and church processions that go through downtown.
Some can be graphic, depicting the death and resurrection of Jesus, while some, like the Procession of Silence, are meditative walks meant for contemplation.
Oaxaca Travel Guide and FAQ
Is Oaxaca a state or city?
Both — Oaxaca is one of the 32 states in Mexico. It’s capital city is called Oaxaca City (officially it’s Oaxaca de Juarez), but most people refer to Oaxaca City simply as Oaxaca.
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.
Best Things to Do in Oaxaca City Mexico
Where is Oaxaca located?
Oaxaca is a state in southern Mexico, surrounded by other Mexican states like Chiapas and Puebla. It is the biggest city in Oaxaca State.
🗺️ 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. ✈️ Book your Oaxaca flights now!
Best Things to Do in Oaxaca City Mexico
What is the best time to visit Oaxaca Mexico?
The best time to travel to Oaxaca is during the dry season, October to May, which is also the busy or high season.
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 weather
Oaxaca City has a desert climate, so hot days and cool nights. The temperature in Oaxaca 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.
If you don’t mind some rain during the Oaxaca rainy season, you will also get lower prices — as this is the slow season.
Best Things to Do in Oaxaca City Mexico
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.
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.
⚠️ For a deep dive into this topic, check out Is Oaxaca Safe to Travel to Right Now?
Best Things to Do in Oaxaca City Mexico
What are the best places to stay in Oaxaca?
Not sure where to stay in Oaxaca Mexico? That’s understandable because there really are a lot of great options at all price points, including these best boutique hotels in Oaxaca City and also hostels.
Have a look at the options below, and if you need even more suggestions, check out these 17 Best Places to Stay in Oaxaca City.
🏆 Best neighborhoods in Oaxaca City
For first time visitors, you’ll find staying in Oaxaca Centro (Downtown) near the Zocalo very convenient, as it’s super walkable.
There’s also the colorful and artsy Jalatlaco neighborhood, and Xochimilco, the most historic neighborhood in Oaxaca — all three are great options.
🏩 Best HotelS in Oaxaca
- Quinta Real Oaxaca City ($$$$, Centro)
- Pug Seal Oaxaca ($$$$, Centro)
- Hotel Escondido Oaxaca ($$$$, Centro)
- City Centro Hotel Oaxaca ($$$, Jalatlaco)
- NaNa Vida Hotel ($$$, Centro)
- Casa de Arte ($$, Xochimilco)
🏨 Best HostelS in Oaxaca
Best Things to Do in Oaxaca City Mexico
How do you get around Oaxaca City?
Oaxaca City is very 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, Oaxaca taxis are perfectly safe to use in Oaxaca.
Note: While I do hail taxis, I personally prefer to call taxis via the DiDi Rider app. This way, 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.
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.
Best Things to Do in Oaxaca City Mexico
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.
For those who want to explore the villages outside town, like Hierve el Agua in San Lorenzo Albarradas, San Agustín Etla, Teotitlán Del Valle and San Pablo Villa de Mitla, you’ll want at least 5-6 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. When it comes to my Oaxaca must do suggestions, you must eat some of the best Oaxaca street food!
Best Things to Do in Oaxaca City Mexico
Is Oaxaca City worth visiting?
Yes — Oaxaca is magical; it’s the Mexico people imagine Mexico to be.
If you’ve seen images of Oaxaca Mexico, you might have some idea already, but nothing beats visiting Oaxaca in person.
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, Oaxaca is worth visiting. It’s one of the most colorful cities in Mexico, and a must-visit for anyone who loves culture, art and food.
Final Thoughts: Best Things to Do in Oaxaca City
While there might seem to be an endless number of Oaxaca City things to do, once you get to town, you’ll see most things aren’t far from one another and there’s a lot within walking distance of most Oaxaca hotels in downtown.
If your time is limited, a Oaxaca rental car will really come in handy to see the sites just outside of town — like Hierve el Agua, Monte Alban Ruins and Mitla pueblo magico (magic town).
However, Oaxaca City is very walkable, and it’s easier to get around on foot if you’re just staying in Downtown Oaxaca City. There is limited public transport in town, but for day trips outside of the city, you have better options.
I hope this article, 30 Things to do in Oaxaca A Complete Oaxaca Travel Guide, helps you plan an epic trip to Oaxaca Mexico. If you need more information, here are a few other Oaxaca blogs to check out:
- 25+ Best Hotels in Oaxaca with a Pool
- Best Hierve el Agua Tours from Oaxaca
- Best Oaxaca Food Tours: Street Food & Beyond
- Best Mezcal Tours from Oaxaca City
- Monte Alban Tours From Oaxaca
- Oaxaca Nature: The Best Tours from Oaxaca City
- 40 Best Restaurants in Oaxaca City
- Best Mezcalerias in Oaxaca Mexico
- Downtown Oaxaca: What You Must See in Oaxaca City