Things to Do in Oaxaca
Besides Mexico City, there’s another Mexican city I know very well: Oaxaca.
Three trips, three months, and several local friends have helped me appreciate this city more and more each time. Honestly, I fell in love with Oaxaca from the very first moment I arrived.
Experiencing Día de Muertos, savoring the delicious mole negro, and admiring the colorful facades instantly won me over!
Here’s a list of 25 things to do in Oaxaca!
25 Things to Do in Oaxaca
- Explore Oaxaca’s historic center
- Visit the Santo Domingo Church
- Discover the Museo de las Culturas
- Stroll through the Ethnobotanical Garden
- Spend time in the Zócalo
- Taste traditional Oaxaca cuisine
- Shop at Benito Juárez market
- Explore the ancient ruins of Monte Albán
- Swim at Hierve El Agua
- Learn about mezcal production
- Visit the archaeological site of Mitla
- Discover local handicrafts in nearby villages
- Spend a day at the beach
- Visit the Contemporary Art Museum
- Explore the Oaxaca Textile Museum
- Enjoy a performance at the Alcala Macedonio
- Walk through the colorful Jalatlaco neighborhood
- Browse the Mercado de Artesanía
- Watch a traditional dance performance
- Visit the Basílica de la Soledad
- Stroll around the Xochimilco neighborhood
- Experience Día de Muertos celebrations
- Stop by the 20 de noviembre Market
- Taste authentic Mexican chocolate
- See the famous Tree of Tule
Oaxaca in a nutshell
Nestled in a valley surrounded by majestic mountains in southern Mexico, Oaxaca captivates travelers eager to explore its historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Here, stunning colonial buildings stand alongside cobblestone streets lined with lively markets.
Oaxaca is also renowned for its archaeological sites, such as Monte Albán, an ancient Zapotec ceremonial center, and for its vibrant festivals like the Guelaguetza, a celebration of traditional dance and music.
It’s the perfect place to learn more about indigenous cultures through its rich artisan heritage and delicious local specialties, including mole and mezcal.
25 Things to Do in Oaxaca
If you’re short on time in Oaxaca, I recommend focusing on the essentials. I’ve written an article for those in a hurry with my top 10 must-see places.
But if you’re lucky enough to spend more than three days here, check out my top 25 things to do in Oaxaca!
TOURS TO DISCOVER OAXACA
1. Explore Oaxaca’s historic center
Let’s kick off the top 25 things to do in Oaxaca!
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the city’s historic center is a true gem of Mexican colonial architecture.
Its cobblestone streets and elegant, colorful buildings, often adorned with baroque details, reflect Oaxaca’s rich Spanish heritage.
Charming churches, lively plazas, and bustling markets add to the city’s vibrant atmosphere.
I highly recommend wandering aimlessly through the streets—and, most importantly, venturing beyond the main tourist areas.
Other neighborhoods are well worth exploring and remain very safe, offering a more authentic glimpse of Oaxaca’s historic heart.
2. Visit the Santo Domingo Church
This baroque-style church is a must-see!
Its interior dazzles visitors with vaulted ceilings, lavish gold details, and intricate sculptures. The exterior is equally impressive and makes for stunning photos.
Most of the time, the church is closed, so you may need to try more than once to get inside.
Sunset is the best time to admire it, as the soft light enhances its beauty even more.
3. Discover the Museo de las Culturas
Next to this church, you’ll find a unique place: the Museo de las Culturas.
Housed in a former convent, this museum welcomes visitors eager to learn about the region’s history, from pre-Hispanic times to the modern era.
The building itself is breathtaking, making the visit worthwhile even just for the architecture. In 2024, the entrance fee is 95 pesos.
Inside, 14 rooms display significant archaeological artifacts from Mixtec and Zapotec cultures.
The highlight is the treasure from Tomb 7 of Monte Albán, featuring gold and jade pieces. The museum also showcases important colonial-era artifacts.
4. Stroll through the Ethnobotanical Garden
Located on the former orchard grounds of the Santo Domingo convent, the Oaxaca Ethnobotanical Garden is a beautiful and peaceful green oasis.
To visit this site, you must join a guided tour. This rule helps protect both the garden and the visitors, as some plants are toxic.
The tour is a great opportunity to explore the region’s flora and learn more about the 900 species growing here.
Along the way, visitors also come across remnants of the convent’s past, such as old washbasins.
5. Spend time in the Zócalo
The Zócalo is the heart of Oaxaca. Surrounded by lively terraces, it’s a popular meeting spot for locals and a great place to people-watch.
The most striking landmark here is the Cathedral.
Built between the 16th and 18th centuries, it is a stunning example of colonial baroque architecture, featuring a façade made of the region’s characteristic green stone.
Inside, visitors are captivated by the vastness of its naves, the elegance of its decorated altars, and the richness of its ornamentation.
The Zócalo frequently hosts events, from concerts and award ceremonies to Christmas celebrations. It’s an essential stop to soak up the local atmosphere!
6. Taste traditional Oaxaca cuisine
If there’s one place in Mexico where you won’t be able to stop eating, it’s Oaxaca. Mole, tlayudas, chapulines—everything is simply delicious.
You can enjoy the best dishes in upscale restaurants, but also in humble street stalls and, most importantly, in the markets!
While in Oaxaca, take the opportunity to join a local cooking class.
It’s the perfect chance to learn more about the region’s cuisine, sharpen your cooking skills, and meet new people along the way.
7. Shop at Benito Juárez market
Markets are an essential part of Mexican life, and Oaxaca is no exception.
Mercado Benito Juárez is one of the city’s largest, offering everything from fresh produce to textiles and handcrafted baskets. The aisles are always bustling, creating a lively and welcoming atmosphere.
It’s the perfect place to watch locals go about their shopping while noticing the amazement on tourists’ faces.
Don’t forget to pick up some souvenirs here—you’ll find almost anything you’re looking for!
8. Explore the ancient ruins of Monte Albán
This is the must-do excursion when visiting Oaxaca!
This ancient Zapotec city sits atop a hill at 2,000 meters above sea level, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding valley.
The ruins are just as impressive, transporting you back to a mysterious and fascinating era.
The site is divided into several areas, including the Gran Plaza, the Juego de Pelota, the Pirámide, and the Palacio.
Take your time wandering through Monte Albán and soaking it all in. Before leaving, be sure to visit the museum to learn even more about this extraordinary place.
9. Swim at Hierve El Agua
Another must-see excursion is Hierve el Agua! These stunning petrified waterfalls, known for their white color, were formed millions of years ago.
Be sure to bring your swimsuit, as you can take a dip in the natural pools while enjoying breathtaking views of the valley.
Although it’s possible to get there on your own, I recommend joining a tour—it’s easier, faster, and packed with valuable insights!
10. Learn about mezcal production
Mezcal is the local drink—stronger and, in my opinion, even better than tequila.
It is made from different varieties of agave, primarily in the state of Oaxaca.
You can enjoy it neat, as part of a tasting, or mixed into cocktails.
There are several categories of mezcal, from the youngest (“joven”) to the oldest (“añejo”), depending on the aging process.
Visit a distillery to learn more about its production.
There, you’ll discover all the secrets behind mezcal and even get to sample different types.
You can go on your own, but joining a tour makes the experience much easier and more informative!
11. Visit the archaeological site of Mitla
If you want to explore the surroundings of Oaxaca, visiting Mitla is a great idea. This ancient Zapotec religious center is a must-see for history lovers or anyone, like me, who enjoys places with a unique atmosphere.
These ruins were primarily used for ceremonies and as tombs for Zapotec elites.
Mitla is also famous for its stunning stone mosaics and intricate friezes, which are unique in pre-Hispanic Mexican architecture.
You can easily visit on your own or join a tour that also includes stops at Hierve el Agua and the Tule Tree.
12. Discover local handicrafts in nearby villages
The list of villages to explore around Oaxaca is long—very long.
While Oaxaca itself and its main tourist attractions are worth visiting, venturing into the small towns nearby will give you a deeper insight into different aspects of local life.
Some villages stand out for their rich artisanal traditions.
Teotitlán del Valle is famous for its beautiful woven rugs, San Bartolo Coyotepec for its black pottery, and Atzompa for its green pottery.
Visiting these places is the perfect opportunity to see artisans at work and bring home unique souvenirs.
13. Spend a day at the beach
A must on the list of 25 things to do in Oaxaca!
The city is about 250 km from the Pacific Ocean, making it the perfect opportunity to take a break, swim, and relax under the sun. The most popular destination is Puerto Escondido.
Since 2024, you can reach this small town in just a few hours, making it ideal for a day at the beach, whether sunbathing or surfing.
However, I recommend staying a little longer to fully enjoy this charming and relaxing town.
ALSO READ: Best Hotels in Puerto Escondido
14. Visit the Contemporary Art Museum
Housed in a restored 18th-century colonial building, this museum showcases a sample of Mexican art, with a particular focus on the vibrant work of Oaxacan artists.
The museum hosts both permanent and temporary exhibitions, highlighting various techniques, from painting and sculpture to photography and installation art.
15. Explore the Oaxaca Textile Museum
Another fascinating museum is the Textile Museum. Here, visitors can admire a diverse collection of textiles from various indigenous communities, showcasing traditional weaving and embroidery techniques.
These pieces, often vibrant and intricately detailed, reflect the cultural richness of Oaxaca, where each region has its own distinctive textile style.
16. Enjoy a performance at the Alcala Macedonio
Oaxaca boasts a vibrant cultural scene, and performing arts enthusiasts will be delighted to attend a play, an opera, or even a ballet at the beautiful Macedonio Alcalá Theater, named after the renowned Oaxacan composer Macedonio Alcalá.
Even if the arts are not your main interest, it’s still worth visiting this stunning building, inaugurated in 1909, whose neoclassical and Art Nouveau design was heavily influenced by French architecture.
17. Walk through the colorful Jalatlaco neighborhood
If you’re looking for the perfect Instagram-worthy spot, there’s one neighborhood you simply can’t miss!
Jalatlaco is arguably the most colorful district in the city, with its vibrant facades and striking murals.
Its charming cobblestone streets and historic churches add an elegant, timeless touch.
Jalatlaco is also the perfect place to wander through art galleries, relax in cozy cafés, and explore charming little boutiques.
18. Browse the Mercado de Artesanía
If you’re looking for souvenirs for friends or unique decorations for your home, the Mercado de Artesanías is a must-visit.
Though it attracts tourists, this market remains surprisingly peaceful and pleasant to explore.
As you wander through its aisles, you’ll find beautifully crafted textiles, pottery, ceramics, jewelry, and hand-carved alebrijes, all made by talented local artisans.
19. Watch a traditional dance performance
Oaxaca is a city rich in artistic expression.
One undeniable yet often overlooked art form is dance! A prime example is the Danza de la Pluma, a traditional performance full of history and symbolism.
You can enjoy a show at La Casa de la Cultura Oaxaqueña or during the many cultural festivals held throughout the year.
ALSO READ: Visit Oaxaca: My Top 10
20. Visit the Basílica de la Soledad
This Baroque-style church is dedicated to the patron saint of the city, the Virgen de la Soledad.
Its richly adorned façades, characteristic of Mexican Baroque architecture, captivate both art enthusiasts and religious visitors eager to decipher the intricate sculpted details.
Step inside, and you’ll be surprised by its understated elegance—a perfect place for a moment of reflection alongside locals. And if you’re in the mood for a treat, don’t miss the chance to enjoy a refreshing nieve (traditional ice cream) just outside the basilica.
21. Stroll around the Xochimilco neighborhood
Xochimilco is one of the oldest and most picturesque neighborhoods in the city.
Known for its cobbled streets and colorful houses, it offers a glimpse into a quieter side of Oaxaca, away from the bustling city center.
Wandering through its narrow, winding alleys, you’ll come across peaceful little plazas and artisan workshops, making for a delightful stroll.
Head further north, and you’ll find the Xochimilco Aqueduct, an 18th-century colonial structure that stands as a testament to the architectural ingenuity of its time.
22. Experience Día de Muertos celebrations
Oaxaca is the best place to experience Día de Muertos.
This region of Mexico preserves the tradition almost entirely intact. The most meaningful way to experience it is by spending the day—and the days leading up to it—with a Mexican family.
I was lucky enough to do just that. I helped buy the food for the altar dedicated to the departed, carefully placing each offering in a ritual where every detail matters.
I also accompanied the family to the cemetery, where we stayed late into the night, keeping vigil in a deeply moving and unforgettable experience.
Even if you don’t get the chance to celebrate with a local family, you can still fully immerse yourself in the festivities. The city comes alive with parades, concerts, food tastings, and endless events—there’s no way you’ll get bored!
Just a quick reminder: if you visit a cemetery, please be respectful of the families keeping vigil for their loved ones. This is not the time to snap Instagram photos or stare at people as if you were at a zoo.
Sorry for being a bit blunt about this, but many of my local friends have shared their frustration about certain tourists behaving inappropriately during these deeply meaningful days.
23. Stop by the 20 de noviembre Market
Oaxaca is filled with countless markets, but here’s another one you simply can’t miss: Mercado 20 de Noviembre. This is the perfect spot to indulge in local gastronomy and shop for traditional regional products.
Whatever you do, don’t skip El Pasillo de Humo—the “Smoke Alley.” As the name suggests, the air here is thick with the aroma of grilled meat.
24. Taste authentic Mexican chocolate
I’m not usually a fan of chocolate, but I have to admit that Mexican chocolate is delicious.
If you’re curious to try it—especially as a hot drink—just know that it’s quite different from what we’re used to in Europe.
I recommend sampling different varieties to find the right balance of cacao, spices, and nuts that suits your taste.
And while you’re in Oaxaca, consider joining a chocolate-making workshop! It’s a great way to create your own blend and take home a delicious souvenir.
25. See the famous Tree of Tule
We wrap up this list of 25 things to do in Oaxaca with a must-see excursion to the famous Tule Tree, located in the village of Santa María del Tule.
This Montezuma cypress, also known as “El Árbol del Tule,” is renowned for its massive trunk—considered the widest in the world, measuring an astonishing 42 meters in diameter.
Estimated to be over 2,000 years old, this majestic tree has silently witnessed the history of the region. Its gigantic form and sprawling branches have inspired countless legends.
The easiest way to see it? Join a guided tour that also includes stops at Mitla and Hierve el Agua for a full day of exploration!
How many days to visit Oaxaca?
If you’re short on time, I recommend spending three days in Oaxaca. You can dedicate the first two days to exploring the city and use the last day to visit Monte Albán or take another excursion.
If you also want to enjoy its markets, restaurants, and art galleries, staying for a full week is a great option.
However, if you’re a digital nomad, nothing stops you from staying for several months to fully experience the city and dive deeper into the rich culture of this Mexican region.
When is the best time to visit Oaxaca?
It’s impossible to list these 25 things to do in Oaxaca without answering some of the most common questions about this destination!
The best time to visit Oaxaca is between October and April when the weather is pleasant, with mild temperatures and little rain. It’s best to avoid June and July, as they tend to be the rainiest months.
Oaxaca attracts both international and domestic tourists. The latter are particularly numerous during Christmas and Easter, so if you want to avoid the crowds, it’s better to skip these periods.
If a bit of rain doesn’t bother you, experiencing the Guelaguetza festival in July is truly unforgettable.
However, the best time to visit Oaxaca is undoubtedly for Día de Muertos (late October – early November), when you can witness this deeply traditional Mexican celebration in its most authentic form.
Keep in mind that prices rise during this period, and the city center gets very crowded.
How to get to Oaxaca?
Of course, you can reach Oaxaca by car or bus. The city also has an airport with direct flights from Mexico City, which take about two hours.
How to get to Oaxaca from Mexico City?
For a more eco-friendly trip, I recommend taking the bus instead of flying. The journey takes about 6 to 7 hours, with departures from several stations, including TAPO, Norte, and Tasqueña. You can purchase your ticket online on the ADO website.
How to get to Oaxaca from Pueblo?
From Puebla, the bus is the most convenient option, departing from the CAPU station. The journey takes about 5 hours.
How to get to Oaxaca from Puerto Escondido?
Since the recent opening of the highway, it is now possible to travel between the two cities in just 3 hours by bus, instead of the previous 9-10 hours.
You can also take a colectivo (minibus) to save a few pesos. Flying is another option, but the price is quite high for such a short trip—not to mention the environmental impact. 😉
How to get around in Oaxaca?
Oaxaca is a very walkable city. However, if you’re staying outside the city center, you can rely on the fairly extensive bus network. To find out which line you need, I recommend asking a local.
Of course, you can also take a taxi for more comfort, and I strongly recommend using one at night. Avoid walking alone after 10 PM.
Where to stay in Oaxaca?
If you plan to stay in Oaxaca for several weeks or even months, I recommend staying outside the city center to experience local life more authentically.
However, if you’re only visiting for a few days, staying in the city center is the best option to minimize travel time and fully immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere.
Nowadays, every time I return to Oaxaca, I stay with my Mexican host family, but here’s a selection of hotels! During my first visit, I stayed for several nights at…
If hostels aren’t really your thing, here are five great hotels for a stay in Oaxaca.
My favorite hotels in Oaxaca
Mixteco Naba Nandoo ($): I stayed at this hostel during my first visit, and I absolutely loved it! Not only is it very well located, but it’s also super clean, the terrace offers a lovely view of the city, and the staff is incredibly kind.
Viajero Oaxaca Hostel ($): Another hotel particularly recommended for solo travelers. Located near the Santo Domingo Church, it’s a very budget-friendly option with breakfast included.
Hotel Trébol ($$): I spent a few days there, and I have nothing but good things to say: friendly and attentive staff, clean rooms, and delicious breakfasts! The hotel is located in a beautiful building just a few steps from the city’s two main markets.
Niyana Oaxaca ($$): For those who want to take care of the planet while staying in a hotel that truly reflects the essence of Mexico, this is the place for you. I had the chance to meet the person who designed this space, and I can assure you that everything has been done to make it as eco-friendly as possible!
Casa Antonieta ($$$$): Perhaps one of the most Instagrammable hotels in the city. Its simple yet cozy decor makes it a perfect space to relax as a couple. Located right in the city center, it’s the ideal base for exploring Oaxaca.
Is it safe to stay at Oaxaca?
Downtown Oaxaca is generally very safe.
However, as in any part of Mexico, it’s best to avoid walking alone at night, especially in less busy streets. It’s also advisable not to display valuable items.
The city remains relatively calm, but after 10 PM, taking a taxi is a safer option for getting around. Some areas can be riskier, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the city. Don’t hesitate to ask locals for advice—they’ll know which places to avoid.
Personally, I’ve never felt unsafe in Oaxaca, even at night, but that doesn’t mean there’s zero risk.
Being a digital nomad in Oaxaca
Oaxaca is attracting a growing number of digital nomads, and it’s easy to see why. Beyond its beauty, the city offers a rich cultural scene with performances, dance, printmaking, ceramics, and, of course, incredible gastronomy. I’ll stop here—the list goes on.
When it comes to accommodation, there’s something for everyone, from budget-friendly hostels to long-term Airbnbs.
The Wi-Fi is reliable and fast, making it easy to work from various cafés or the few coworking spaces available.
For those who prefer everything in one place, coliving spaces offer both accommodation and a work-friendly environment, while also fostering connections with other digital nomads.
The presence of a thriving digital nomad community is another big plus for those who enjoy being surrounded by like-minded individuals.
However, with the increasing influx of tourists and remote workers, it’s essential to travel responsibly—helping to preserve the environment and support local communities.
Responsible travel in Oaxaca
One of the biggest challenges Mexico faces is water scarcity, and Oaxaca is no exception.
It’s crucial to use water responsibly—keep your showers short, turn off the tap while brushing your teeth, and if you’re staying with locals, consider using cooking water to water plants.
The influx of digital nomads, especially from the U.S. and Europe, who earn significantly more than locals, is also affecting communities.
Rents are rising, forcing some residents to relocate, while traditional bars and restaurants are disappearing in favor of trendy spots catering to tourists—often with inflated prices.
This growing presence of remote workers across the country is creating more and more tension.
Now is the time to show that you care about your impact as a traveler by taking concrete actions to avoid contributing to gentrification:
- Stay in hotels instead of overpriced Airbnbs.
- Rent accommodations at fair prices.
- Choose locally-owned lodgings over corporate properties.
- Shop at traditional markets.
- Dine at locally-owned restaurants.
- Avoid chain restaurants.
- Refuse to pay excessive taxi fares.
- Support local artisans.
- Engage with locals to better understand the challenges they face.
There are many ways to counteract gentrification, often by staying informed and making conscious choices.
I hope this list of 25 things to do in Oaxaca helps you explore this incredible city and all its hidden gems. Take the time to connect with the local community—they are the true heart of Oaxaca!
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