Oaxaca Travel Guide
If, like me, you prefer the road less travelled, Oaxaca is an incredible region to explore.
Picture yourself wandering through ancient hilltop ruins, navigating lively markets, and sharing a drink with the locals who craft the region’s iconic mezcal.
In this guide, I’ll help you experience the best of Oaxaca.
You’ll find a mix of popular attractions like Monte Albán and Hierve el Agua, some of my favourite hidden gems, and insider tips to make the most of your time in this special place.
Need help planning your next trip? Hire me as your Personal Travel Planner!
Where to Stay in Oaxaca
Oaxaca City is the perfect base for exploring the region, with plenty of fantastic accommodation options.
For a classic Oaxaca experience, check out boutique hotels and guesthouses in the Centro Histórico. You’ll stay close to the action but still have a quiet retreat at the end of the day.
Looking for something a bit more laid-back? Try Jalatlaco, my favourite neighbourhood. This artsy area is relaxed but still within easy walking distance of the city centre.
Oaxaca also has excellent Airbnbs, and many local hosts are happy to share their tips on the best spots to eat and drink.
My Favourite Things to Do in Oaxaca
1. Explore the Centro Histórico
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The Centro Histórico is the vibrant heart of Oaxaca City and the best place to begin. Its cobbled streets, grand colonial buildings, and colourful facades are a joy to explore.
The Templo de Santo Domingo is a must-see. This stunning church and former monastery showcase Oaxaca’s rich colonial history.
In the early evening, head to the Zocalo, the main square. You’ll often find street musicians, impromptu dancing, and pop-up art displays. It’s a favourite hangout for locals and a great spot for people-watching.
One of my favourite activities in the Centro Histórico is simply wandering. Hidden courtyards, striking street art, and cosy little cafes are waiting to be discovered around every corner.
Grab a coffee and soak it all in.
2. Feast at the Mercado de Abastos
For an authentic taste of Oaxaca, the Mercado de Abastos is unbeatable. This sprawling market is chaotic, colourful, and full of life.
Unlike more touristy markets, this is where locals shop. You’ll find everything from fresh produce and handmade crafts to some of the city’s best street food.
Try a tlayuda, a crispy tortilla loaded with toppings, or indulge in mole, Oaxaca’s famous rich sauce.
Feeling adventurous? Snack on chapulines (roasted grasshoppers) coated in salt, chilli, and lime juice. They’re surprisingly tasty!
Getting a little lost here is all part of the experience. Around every corner, you’ll stumble upon unique trinkets and hidden food stalls.
3. Visit Monte Albán
Just outside Oaxaca City, Monte Albán is one of Mexico’s most impressive and remarkable archaeological sites.
When I visited, it felt almost surreal – no crowds, just sweeping views and echoes of ancient history.
Monte Albán was the capital of the Zapotec civilisation. You can explore the Grand Plaza, wander in amongst the ancient pyramids, and marvel at the panoramic views of the surrounding valleys.
It’s a peaceful, atmospheric place where you can really feel the weight of history. Take your time to fully soak it all in.
4. Take a Day Trip to Hierve el Agua
Hierve el Agua is a natural wonder like no other. With its petrified waterfalls and mineral-rich pools, it’s a photographer’s dream.
The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon, once the crowds thin out. If you don’t have your own car, I’d recommend hiring a private driver or joining a small group tour to get there.
Once you arrive, you can take a dip in the pools or hike the surrounding trails. The views are incredible, and the tranquillity of the place makes the journey worth it.
5. Drink Mezcal
Mezcal is an important part of Oaxacan culture, and no trip here is complete without trying it.
While there are mezcalerías all over the city, Mezcalería In Situ is my favourite. The owners are true enthusiasts who’ll help you find the perfect mezcal for your taste.
For a deeper dive, visit a local producer. Many offer tours where you can learn about the entire process and see how mezcal is made, from harvesting the agave to distilling the final product.
It’s a great way to appreciate this iconic spirit – and it’s even better when shared with the people who make it.
The Best Time to Visit Oaxaca
Oaxaca is beautiful year-round, but the best time to visit is during the dry season (October to April). The weather is warm and sunny, perfect for exploring the city and surrounding areas.
If you’re interested in Oaxaca’s famous festivals, plan your trip for the Day of the Dead in late October or the Guelaguetza in July. Just be prepared for large crowds during these events.
How Long Do You Need in Oaxaca?
For the full experience, plan to spend at least a week in Oaxaca. That’ll give you time to explore the city, visit Monte Albán, and take a day trip to Hierve el Agua.
If you’re short on time, four days will give you a solid taste of the region, but you’ll have a pretty packed itinerary.
For slow travellers, Oaxaca is a dream. The longer you stay, the more hidden gems you’ll uncover, from quiet neighbourhoods to cosy family-run eateries.
FAQs About Visiting Oaxaca
Is Oaxaca safe for tourists?
Yes, Oaxaca is generally safe for tourists. Like anywhere, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Stick to well-lit streets at night and take normal precautions.
What should I pack for a trip to Oaxaca?
Pack light, breathable clothing, as Oaxaca can get quite warm during the day. Comfortable walking shoes are a must, as are sunscreen, a hat, and a reusable water bottle.
How do I get around Oaxaca?
Oaxaca City is very walkable. For longer trips, taxis and colectivos (shared vans) are affordable and convenient. For day trips, hire a car or a private driver, or join a small group tour.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re strolling through Oaxaca City’s colourful streets, sipping artisanal mezcal, or taking day trips to explore the surrounding area, Oaxaca is a truly special destination.
It’s a place where history, world-class cuisine, and hidden treasures come together in the most captivating way.
If you’re looking for an authentic Mexican experience, I can’t recommend Oaxaca highly enough.
Check out some of my other posts to help you plan the perfect trip!
Essential Travel Resources
🛏️ Book cheap hotels
I always use Booking.com to find the best hotel deals. Vrbo is great for short-term apartments.
🚗 Find cheap rental cars
Check both Discover Cars and Rentalcars.com to find cheap rental cars.
🌍 Book the best tours
Viator and GetYourGuide have a huge selection of tours in virtually every destination worldwide.
✈️ Find cheap flights
I use a combination of Skyscanner and Google Flights to find cheap flights.
📱 eSIMs
Airalo is my favourite travel eSIM provider – I’ve used it in over 10 countries and really rate it. So much easier than buying physical SIM cards when you travel!
🚑 Do I need travel insurance?
YES! Never travel without adequate travel insurance. It’s just not worth the risk.
• SafetyWing – if you’re a digital nomad like me, SafetyWing is super flexible and affordable. You can sign up for as little or as long as you want, and activate and deactivate it whenever you need to. I’ve made several claims in the last few years and thoroughly recommend this company.
• World Nomads – for adventurous travellers, covers 200+ activities that many other insurers won’t, such as skydiving, heli-skiing, rock climbing, rafting, scuba diving, cliff jumping, and kiteboarding (not available for residents of every country – check here).
💻 Do I need a VPN?
YES! Always use a VPN when using public WiFi (in airports, cafes, hotels, stations, etc.). This helps protect your personal information and also bypasses internet censorship and restrictions in certain countries. I use NordVPN and highly recommend it.
