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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

14 Best Things to Do in Oaxaca

1. Explore the Zocalo

Visit the bustling main square filled with culture.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1 hr

2. Visit Monte Albán

Discover the ancient Zapotec ruins on a hilltop.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

2.5 hrs

3. Experience local markets

Shop for crafts and taste street food delicacies.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

2 hrs

4. Take a cooking class

Learn to make traditional Oaxacan dishes.

Available all year

Family-friendly

Booking required

3 hrs

5. Attend a Guelaguetza festival

Join this vibrant cultural celebration each July.

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Booking required

3 hrs

6. Visit the Botanical Garden

Explore diverse native plants in a tranquil setting.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1 hr

7. Tour the Templo de Santo Domingo

Admire the baroque architecture and rich history.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1 hr

8. Sample mezcal in a distillery

Taste this local spirit in its birthplace.

Available all year

Adults only

No booking required

2 hrs

9. Visit the Museo de las Culturas

Learn about Oaxaca's rich cultural history.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

2 hrs

10. Explore Hierve el Agua

Hike to stunning rock formations and natural pools.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

4 hrs

11. Discover artisan villages

Shop handmade crafts in nearby towns.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

4 hrs

12. Visit the Oaxaca Textile Museum

See exquisite textiles and learn about weaving.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1.5 hrs

13. Attend a cooking demonstration

Watch chefs make traditional dishes live.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

2 hrs

14. Walk through the historic center

Stroll and admire colonial architecture and vibrant streets.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1 hr

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)