Oaxaca

Mexico, North America

Oaxaca, a captivating blend of rich indigenous culture and colonial charm, is famed for its vibrant arts scene, ancient ruins, and mouthwatering cuisine. Visitors can explore the striking Monte Albán ruins, shop at lively markets filled with handmade crafts, and savor local delicacies like mole and mezcal. The city's colorful streets and festivals add to its irresistible appeal, making it a destination that enchants adventurers and foodies alike.

Quick facts

Target stay

4-7 days

Type

City

Vibe

History

Airport

Xoxocotlan

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

14 Best Things to Do in Oaxaca

1

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Zocalo

Visit the bustling main square filled with culture.

No booking required
2

Est. 2.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Monte Albán

Discover the ancient Zapotec ruins on a hilltop.

No booking required
3

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Experience local markets

Shop for crafts and taste street food delicacies.

No booking required
4

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Take a cooking class

Learn to make traditional Oaxacan dishes.

Booking required
5

Est. 3 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Attend a Guelaguetza festival

Join this vibrant cultural celebration each July.

Booking required
6

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Botanical Garden

Explore diverse native plants in a tranquil setting.

No booking required
7

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Tour the Templo de Santo Domingo

Admire the baroque architecture and rich history.

No booking required
8

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Adults only

Sample mezcal in a distillery

Taste this local spirit in its birthplace.

No booking required
9

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Museo de las Culturas

Learn about Oaxaca's rich cultural history.

No booking required
10

Est. 4 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore Hierve el Agua

Hike to stunning rock formations and natural pools.

No booking required
11

Est. 4 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Discover artisan villages

Shop handmade crafts in nearby towns.

No booking required
12

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Oaxaca Textile Museum

See exquisite textiles and learn about weaving.

No booking required
13

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Attend a cooking demonstration

Watch chefs make traditional dishes live.

No booking required
14

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Walk through the historic center

Stroll and admire colonial architecture and vibrant streets.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~15%)

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Low

LGBTQ+ safety score

4 (#41 globally)

Cost

Cheap

Currency

Mexican Peso

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Spanish

(<20% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Mole

VE

Rich sauce made with chiles and spices (National dish)

Tacos al Pastor

Tortillas filled with marinated pork

Chiles en Nogada

Stuffed peppers with meat and walnut sauce

Pozole

Hearty soup with hominy and meat

Tamales

V

Corn dough filled with various ingredients

Phrases to learn

English

Spanish

Hello

Hola

(Oh-lah)

Yes/No

Si / No

(See / No)

Thank you

Gracias

(Grah-thee-ahs)

Excuse me

Perdón

(Per-dohn)

How much?

¿Cuánto?

(Kwan-toh)