Oaxaca Travel Guide: Culture, Cuisine, and Color in Southern Mexico
Welcome to Oaxaca
Colorful, creative, and deeply connected to its Indigenous roots, Oaxaca (pronounced “wah-HAH-kah”) is one of Mexico’s most culturally rich and visually stunning destinations.
Set in a valley surrounded by mountains in southern Mexico, this UNESCO World Heritage city offers a magical blend of ancient ruins, vibrant markets, colonial architecture, and world-famous cuisine — all with an authentic, small-town feel.
At MexicoTravel.info, we’ll help you uncover the best of Oaxaca: where to stay, what to see, what to eat, and how to truly experience one of the most beautiful regions in all of Mexico.
Why Visit Oaxaca?
Oaxaca is where Mexico’s history, flavors, and soul come alive. Here’s why travelers fall in love with it:
- 🏛️ Historic Center: Walk through beautifully preserved colonial streets and visit churches, museums, and plazas filled with history.
- 🌽 World-Famous Cuisine: Oaxaca is Mexico’s culinary capital — home to mole, tlayudas, and mezcal.
- 🎨 Art, Craft, and Color: From textiles and pottery to wood carvings and street murals, Oaxaca is a hub for Indigenous craftsmanship.
- 🏺 Ancient Zapotec Ruins: Explore Monte Albán, one of the most important archaeological sites in Mesoamerica.
- 🪅 Festivals and Traditions: Experience vibrant celebrations like Día de los Muertos, Guelaguetza, and countless local fiestas.
- 🌄 Natural Beauty: Visit petrified waterfalls, mountain villages, and biodiverse ecotourism areas in the surrounding Sierra Madre.
Where to Stay in Oaxaca City
Oaxaca’s accommodations range from affordable guesthouses to stunning boutique hotels in restored colonial buildings.
🏨 Best Areas to Stay:
- Centro Histórico: Stay in the heart of Oaxaca near the Zócalo, Santo Domingo Church, and artisan markets. Walkable and atmospheric.
- Xochimilco & Jalatlaco: Peaceful neighborhoods just north of downtown, filled with colorful streets, local cafés, and boutique hotels.
- San Felipe del Agua: A more residential area, perfect if you’re seeking serenity and nature on the outskirts of the city.
🌟 Top Hotel Picks:
- Best Boutique Hotels in Oaxaca City
- Best Hotels Near the Zócalo
- Top Affordable Guesthouses in Oaxaca
Best Things to Do in Oaxaca
There is no shortage of culture, flavor, and natural wonder in Oaxaca. Here are the top things to see and do:
🏛️ Explore the Historic Center
- Santo Domingo Church and Cultural Museum: One of Mexico’s most beautiful baroque churches with a former convent turned museum.
- Zócalo (Main Square): Enjoy live music, street food, and markets in the heart of the city.
- Andador Turístico: A pedestrian street lined with galleries, artisan shops, bookstores, and cafés.
🏺 Visit Monte Albán
- A vast Zapotec ruin site located on a hilltop with incredible views over Oaxaca Valley.
- Explore temples, pyramids, tombs, and ball courts dating back to 500 BCE.
🌽 Take a Oaxaca Food Tour
- Try traditional dishes like:
- Mole negro (and 6 other varieties!)
- Tlayudas – giant crispy tortillas with beans, cheese, meat, and avocado.
- Chapulines – seasoned, toasted grasshoppers (yes, really!)
- Visit markets like Mercado Benito Juárez and Mercado 20 de Noviembre to taste local specialties.
🥃 Discover Mezcal Culture
- Tour local palenques (mezcal distilleries) in nearby towns like Santiago Matatlán.
- Learn the artisanal process of making mezcal, and sample smoky varieties straight from the source.
🎨 Shop for Art and Handicrafts
- Visit Tule, Teotitlán del Valle, and San Bartolo Coyotepec for rugs, black pottery, and alebrijes.
- Shop at Aripo and Casa de las Artesanías in town for curated handmade goods.
🌄 Take a Day Trip to Hierve el Agua
- A natural wonder of petrified waterfalls, with infinity-style mineral pools perched on a cliff.
- Stunning photo ops and a unique place to swim in the mountains.
Best Time to Visit Oaxaca
Oaxaca has a pleasant climate most of the year, with cultural festivals and food events driving peak seasons.
| Season | Weather | Travel Tips |
|---|---|---|
| October – March | Dry season, mild temps | Best time for walking, sightseeing, and festivals |
| April – May | Warm and dry | Great weather, less crowded |
| June – September | Rainy season | Afternoon showers, but lush countryside and fewer tourists |
Don’t Miss:
- Día de los Muertos (Oct 31–Nov 2): Oaxaca’s most iconic celebration, with altars, parades, and deep tradition.
- Guelaguetza Festival (July): A regional Indigenous cultural festival featuring dance, music, and costumes.
How to Get to Oaxaca
✈️ By Air:
- Oaxaca International Airport (OAX) is about 20 minutes from the city center.
- Direct flights from Mexico City, Tijuana, Guadalajara, and select U.S. cities like Houston and Dallas.
🚕 Transportation Options:
- Taxis and shuttle services available at the airport.
- Ride-sharing apps like DiDi and Uber operate in the city.
- Most of the city is walkable — no car needed if you stay in Centro.
Oaxaca Travel Tips
- Currency: Mexican Peso (MXN). Cash is essential at markets and small restaurants.
- Language: Spanish is the primary language; basic English spoken in most tourist areas.
- Safety: Oaxaca is safe for travelers. Use standard precautions and be aware in markets or crowded areas.
- Altitude: The city sits at 1,500 meters (5,000 feet). Stay hydrated and rest on arrival if needed.
- Packing Essentials: Comfortable shoes, light layers, sun protection, and a reusable shopping bag for market finds.
Book Your Oaxaca Adventure
Ready to experience the color, flavor, and spirit of Oaxaca?
Let us help you plan the perfect trip, from top hotels to unforgettable food and cultural experiences.
🌟 Plan Your Trip:
- Find the Best Hotels in Oaxaca
- Top Food and Mezcal Tours in Oaxaca
- Cheap Flights to Oaxaca
🌟 Travel Smarter:
- Essential Oaxaca Travel Tips
- What to Pack for Oaxaca
At MexicoTravel.info, we believe Oaxaca is a destination that stays with you — in your heart, your palate, and your stories.
This is where culture is lived, not just observed. Start your journey today.