If you’re looking for a city that’s not too large but is rich in activities and culture, Oaxaca is the place to visit. It’s one of the best spots in Mexico for an exciting and immersive experience.
Start your journey in the capital city, Oaxaca City, where you’ll find plenty to see, eat, and explore. This city is increasingly popular with digital nomads too. Spend a few days exploring churches, museums, and perhaps join a local festival.
Here are 21 of the best things to do in Oaxaca to help you plan your trip.
Getting around Oaxaca is easy. You can use private taxis (though they can be a bit pricey), rent a car for about $25-$30 a day, or use the bus system, which you can book online. During our visit, we mainly used buses between cities and taxis or public transport within the city. Renting motorbikes is another budget-friendly option.
One must-do activity is exploring the central part of the city, known as the Zocalo. This main square is perfect for sightseeing and people-watching. You can spend an entire day wandering around, visiting landmarks, and taking breaks at cafes.
A highlight is the Templo de Santo Domingo, a stunning 16th-century Baroque church. Its intricate, gold-adorned interior is worth seeing. The church is open every day except during mass, and you might catch a wedding if you visit on a Saturday.
Next to the Templo de Santo Domingo is the Museo de las Culturas (Museum of Cultures), located in a former monastery. The museum showcases regional history and culture, with the Treasure of Tomb 7 as its standout exhibit. It offers a great view of the city and costs $3.75 to enter.
Free walking tours are a great way to learn about Oaxaca City. They start daily at 10AM in front of the Oaxaca Cathedral and last about two hours. While the tours are free, tips are welcome.
Don’t miss the local markets. The Benito Juarez Market offers a range of Oaxacan delicacies like mole and local cheese. Enjoy the bustling atmosphere, try different foods, and maybe even snack on crickets. Another option is to explore the markets with a local guide who can introduce you to more than 20 different types of food.
A popular day trip from Oaxaca City is to the Monte Alban ruins. Built by the Zapotecs, it’s among Latin America’s most impressive archaeological sites. You can climb the pyramids for stunning views or join a guided tour to learn more about the site’s history.
To experience Oaxaca’s natural beauty, take a hike in the surrounding mountains. Guided hiking trips often include a coffee break and offer the chance to see waterfalls and local flora, with breakfast and transportation included.
The botanical gardens are another must-visit for nature lovers. Located near the cathedral and the culture museum, they feature native plants of Oaxaca. English tours are available on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday for about $5.
For a detoxifying experience, participate in a temazcal ceremony, an ancient Mayan ritual. Ceviarem Temazcal Oaxaca is a recommended spot, but be sure to book in advance.
A day trip to Hierve el Agua to see rock formations and natural mineral springs is highly recommended. Tours often include other local attractions, lunch, and a mezcal tasting.
Oaxaca is known for its vibrant street art. Look for murals by the Lapiztola collective, which combines art and social activism. Stroll along Calle Alcala, a pedestrian-only street, to admire colonial-era buildings and visit art galleries, cafes, and shops.
Oaxaca’s cuisine is another highlight. Be sure to try tlayuda and mole sauce. For food enthusiasts, a walking food tour offers tastings of various dishes and drinks.
If you enjoy cooking, take a class to learn how to make traditional Oaxacan dishes. Many classes include a market visit to pick up ingredients, and the experience often involves fun conversations and delicious meals.
Oaxaca is one of the best places to celebrate Day of the Dead, with festivities from late October to early November. Expect lively parades, decorated graves, and traditional foods.
The Mercado 20 de Noviembre is a great spot for meat lovers. Choose your vegetables and meats, then have them grilled on the spot. It’s a chaotic but worthwhile experience.
A mezcal tasting is a must in Oaxaca. Mezcal, which is made from various types of agave, has a smoky flavor. Join a guided tasting tour at a mezcal and agave farm for an in-depth experience.
If you want to see more ruins, visit Mitla, the religious center of the Zapotecs. You can combine this trip with a visit to Hierve el Agua.
The Sunday market in Tlacolula is another not-to-miss activity. You’ll find fresh produce, street food, mezcal, and artisanal crafts.
Oaxaca is also famous for its hot chocolate. Visit a local cafe or Mayordomo Chocolate to watch the chocolate-making process and sample different kinds.
For a meaningful experience, join a tour with Fundacion en Via, a non-profit that supports local women through micro-finance programs. Tours involve visiting nearby communities and meeting local artisans.
With so much to do in Oaxaca, you’ll want to spend a few days exploring the city and then head to the coast for some beach time in Puerto Escondido or Huatulco. Enjoy your trip to this captivating Mexican city!
