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- There's No Better Time Than Now To Visit Oaxaca, Mexico!
A lot of tourists search for a mesmerizing city that is not overly large yet offers a ton of attractions and cultural experiences, so Oaxaca is the place to go. One of the greatest destinations to visit in Mexico, it offers a wide variety of activities to keep tourists occupied. The ideal place to begin a trip to this bewitching state in southern Mexico is in its capital, which bears the same name.
There are many good reasons to adore Oaxaca! It is home to some of the most intriguing colonial buildings, is extremely rich in heritage and culture, and serves as the center of Mexican cuisine.
Thousands of grandiose archeological sites are also present, including some of the most significant indigenous Mixtec and Zapotec civilizations.
UPDATE: 2023/08/19 15:06 EST BY NOAH STAATS
There's No Better Time Than Now To Visit Oaxaca, Mexico!
This article now has ten things to do while in Oaxaca, Mexico, as well as other tips for a trip to the region. From historical sites to local markets to stunning natural scenery, Oaxaca is the place to be this fall and beyond!
Things To Do in Oaxaca
In Oaxaca, tourists may spend a few days seeing the city, sampling the local food, and going on excursions. They may also see the cathedrals and museums during a brief stay at Oaxaca City, go on day trips to historic sites, enjoy regional cuisine, and even take part in a traditional event. Here is the ultimate travel guide to Oaxaca.
1 Stop By The Mercado Benito Juárez
- Address: Las Casas S/N, OAX_RE_BENITO JUAREZ, Centro, 68000 Oaxaca de Juárez, Oax., Mexico
- Hours: Monday - Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM
Something to do while in Oaxaca is to visit the locally-renowned Mercado Benito Juárez. Here is where tourists can find a lively marketplace selling produce, prepared foods, crafts, and textiles.
This is the perfect way to support local businesses while traveling here.
2 Learn About Textiles At The Museo Textil de Oaxaca
- Address: Miguel Hidalgo 917, Centro Histórico, 68000 Oaxaca de Juárez, Oax., Mexico
- Hours: Monday - Friday from 10 AM to 8 PM and Saturday from 11 AM to 8 PM (Sunday from 11 AM to 6 PM)
For history lovers traveling through Oaxaca, Mexico, heading over to the Museo Textil de Oaxaca is a nice way to spend an afternoon. Here is where someone can learn more about Mexico's rich textile industry and workshops for adults and kids. Entry is free as well.
3 Cool Off At The Hierve el Agua
- Address: Hierve el Agua, 70477 Oaxaca de Juárez, Oax., Mexico
- Hours: Open daily from 7 AM to 6:30 PM
Next up, tourists to the Oaxaca area can check out the Hierve el Agua, a set of natural travertine rock formations in San Lorenzo Albarradas, Oaxaca.
These natural formations resemble a waterfall and see many visitors each year. Therefore, it might be worth it to head out in the earlier morning.
4 Walk Around Plaza de la Danza
- Address: C. 2 de Abril, CALZADA MADERO, Centro, 68000 Oaxaca de Juárez, Oax., Mexico
- Hours: Open 24 hours
For those wanting some fresh air, checking out Plaza de la Danza is a great option. Here is where tourists and locals can experience a city park in Oaxaca, boasting the political heart of the city.
This square with a large flag borders the Municipal Palace, so that's something else to see too.
5 Enjoy The Theater At Microenormous
- Address: C. de Manuel García Vigil 714, RUTA INDEPENDENCIA, Centro, 68000 Oaxaca de Juárez, Oax., Mexico
- Hours: Dependent on the show
Another idea for guests of Oaxaca is to check out the futuristic performing arts center entitled Microenormous. Here is where visitors can enjoy an experiential and multi-sensory platform that uses ART in all its expressions to increase attention and awareness of everyday objects and rituals.
6 Tour The Historic Basílica de Nuestra Señora de la Soledad
- Address: Av. de la Independencia 107, CALZADA MADERO, Centro, 68000 Oaxaca de Juárez, Oax., Mexico
- Hours: Subject to availability and tour
For anyone wanting to see an ancient basilica, touring the famous Basílica de Nuestra Señora de la Soledad is worth considering. Here lies a Roman Catholic Basilica located in Oaxaca de Juárez, Oaxaca, Mexico.
It was built between 1682 and 1690 and is a sanctuary dedicated to Our Lady of Solitude, patron saint of Oaxaca.
7 Monte Alban, Zocalo
- Location: Oaxaca, Mexico
- Region: Valley of Oaxaca
One thing to do while in Oaxaca, MX, is visit the Monte Album ruins. Here is where guests can explore the ruins of an ancient center of Zapotec and Mixtec culture, located in what is now Oaxaca state, Mexico.
These have been around since the 8th century BCE, so they're a must-see.
8 Templo de Santo Domingo
- Address: Calle de Santiago Tapia 414 Ruta Independencia, Oaxaca 68000 Mexico
- Hours: 7 AM to 1 PM and 4 to 7:30 PM, Monday through Saturday.
The next thing to do while in Oaxaca is to venture over to Templo de Santo Domingo. This is a historic church in the region, boasting stunning architecture and active masses.
Sundays are when worship typically occurs, so keep that in mind when heading over.
9 Ethnobotanical Garden
- Address: Reforma Sur n, RUTA INDEPENDENCIA, Centro, 68000 Oaxaca de Juárez, Oax., Mexico
- Hours: Open every day but Sunday from 10 AM to 1 PM and reopens from 3-6 PM
The next thing to experience in Oaxaca is the Ethnobotanical Garden, a stunning botanical garden in Oaxaca City, Mexico. It spans 2.32 acres of land adjacent to the Church of Santo Domingo. It is managed by the state government of Oaxaca.
10 Oaxaca Cultural Museum
Photo by Alice Kotlyarenko on Unsplash
- Address: 1a. Cerrada de Macedonio Alcala s/n, RUTA INDEPENDENCIA, Centro, 68000 Oaxaca de Juárez, Oax., Mexico
- Hours: Tuesday - Friday from 10 AM to 3 PM
Another idea for a day in Oaxaca, Mexico, is heading over to the famous Oaxaca Cultural Museum. Here is where people can explore the cultural center housing archaeological artifacts and ancient books in a 17th-century convent.
Most people spend about two hours exploring here.
11 The Best Time To Visit Oaxaca
Oaxaca has both a dry season and a wet season due to its subtropical climate. Travelers can visit it all year round as there are not any significant cold or heat waves or four different seasons. Expect moderate temperatures, low humidity, and more than 300 days of sunlight each year in Oaxaca due to its location.
The best time to visit Oaxaca can vary depending on the tourist, even though Oaxaca can be considered a year-round destination. October to early May is considered the dry season.
The days in October and November are often pleasant, but after the sun sets, the temperature begins to decrease.
- Best season: Dry season, especially October through April.
12 Best Ways To Get Around Oaxaca, Mexico
Explore The Best Of Oaxaca On Foot
Walking is the greatest method to move about Oaxaca, especially if tourists stay in the touristy parts of the city. Oaxaca City is pedestrian-friendly, particularly along its Andador de Macedonia Alcala walkway.
Discover The Fabulous Oaxaca By Public Transit
Buses or taxis are reasonably priced options for getting around. Most destinations in Oaxaca City and State may be reached by bus, and they are relatively inexpensive. For instance, from the Hotel Rivera del Angel on Mina Street, tourists may take a bus to Monte Alban.
Visitors can also take a cab if they do not want to wait around for a bus. Make sure to only take cabs that are stationed at specified locations, known as sitios.
- Cost: A one-way bus ticket costs $0.5. As for taxis, it starts at $2.2 and increases by $0.83 per mile.
Rent A Car To Tour Oaxaca
A rented car will allow tourists to go at their own pace; it might not be the greatest choice for someone who is not familiar with the area or the driving laws. Aeropuerto Internacional de Oaxaca (OAX), which is about 5 miles (8 km) south of Oaxaca City, is the closest airport. Travelers may use a cab, bus, or rented automobile to get to the city.
13 Where To Eat And Drink In Oaxaca, Mexico
In Oaxaca, there is no shortage of outstanding restaurants. The city is widely recognized for using cacao beans to make some of the tastiest moles in all of Mexico. A culinary tour is one of the most well-liked excursions in Oaxaca, which is a testimonial to the incredible cuisine available there.
From one street to the next, the flavors of international, traditional, and fusion food pleasantly meld. Additionally, tourists may discover the Mexican favorite street food, which is really excellent and beautifully cooked! Undoubtedly, Oaxaca's eateries will take people’s regular appetites on a delectable excursion.
- Perfect restaurants for breakfast: Chepiche Café, Pan: am Oaxaca, Las Chilmoleras, Filemon
- Best eateries for lunch and dinner: Catedral Restaurant, Los Danzantes, Casa Taviche, Boulenc, Ocote Cocina, El Quinque
- Excellent bars: Cozana, La Mezcaloteca, Mezcalogia, Zapotec Mixology Bar, La Santísima Flor de Lúpulo
14 Where To Stay In Oaxaca, Mexico
Finding a place to stay in Oaxaca is easy no matter travelers' budgets.
Choose One Of The Luxury Hotels
If tourists want to feel like Mexican royalty, Hotel Palacio Borghese is the place to opt for.
- Cost: $333 per night for two adults in a deluxe king bedroom
They can also spend their night at Casa Antonieta, an opulent hotel in the heart of the city housed in the most charming colonial structure. Yet, it has been updated with a contemporary, hipster ambiance.
- Cost: $276 per night for two adults in a deluxe double room
The Quinta Real Oaxaca Hotel is located inside the Santa Catalina de Siena Convent, a 16th-century structure that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it offers an exceptional, romantic, and all-around wonderful experience.
- Cost: $217 per night for two adults in Novicia King Bedroom
Opt For One Of The Mid-Range Hotels For Your Trip To Oaxaca
Artistic tourists will adore the colorful accents and gorgeous design in this charming tiny hotel in the heart of the city, the NaNa Vida Hotel Oaxaca.
- Cost: $126 per night for two adults in a deluxe double room
La Casa de Pino is also a great option for tourists looking for a mid-range hotel.
- Cost: $94 per night for two adults in a one-bedroom apartment
Tourists looking for outstanding value, welcoming staff, and a great location can go to Hotel Casa de la Tia Tere.
- Cost: $77 per night for two adults in a double room
Save Money By Booking Budget Hotels
If travelers do not mind staying in a dormitory, Hostel Selina Oaxaca is an amazing place.
- Cost: $16 per night for one adult per bed in a large dorm
Hostal de las Americas is another option for the travelers’ night in Oaxaca. They can stay in a private room or a dormitory.
- Cost: $51 per night for two adults in a large double room or $14 for one adult in a dormitory.
The final budget hotel suggestion is Andaina Youth Hostel.
- Cost: $28 per night for two adults in a double room with a shared bathroom.
15 Budgeting And Pesos In Oaxaca
For a single tourist, a 7-day vacation to Oaxaca costs, on average, $1,237; for a couple, $2,222; and for a family of four, $4,165. A private room in hotels in Oaxaca costs between $37 and $350 per night.
To go to Xoxocotlan International Airport (OAX), the average international flight expenses per person range from $606 to $1,196 for economy class and from $1,902 to $3,753 for first class.
Depending on the day's activities, travelers are advised to allocate between $39 and $54 per person each day for travel and dining at nearby establishments.
Credit or debit cards are required, but tourists should always carry cash as some businesses do not accept cards. Mexican pesos are withdrawn from ATMs together with a standard 3% foreign transaction fee.
Foreign currency exchange services are available at the city's international airport and the Zócalo, or central plaza.
16 Tips For Visiting Oaxaca
One of the safest cities in Mexico is considered Oaxaca. Violence and thievery associated with drugs or tourists are not present here. Nevertheless, it is always advisable to exercise personal safety and to remain vigilant of your surroundings.
To be safe, travelers should always take a taxi home after a night out. Unless tourists are going to or from the airport, they should avoid carrying all of their belongings with them. It is also better to leave the passport at the hotel and to just bring enough cash to cover the perceived needs.
Additionally, it is always preferable to stroll beside a companion or a small group when travelers can.
- In case of emergency: If there is a crisis, tourists should call 911. If that is unsuccessful, call 066.
17 How To Spend The Perfect Day In Oaxaca, Mexico
To have a perfect day in Oaxaca, tourists shall not miss any of the recommended activities. They shall start by exploring Oaxaca's history by visiting the ruins and the Museum of Cultures. Then, They have to try some regional specialties. The food in this Mexican city is incredible and mouthwatering. Later, take in the atmosphere of the Zocalo.
Finally, no trip to Oaxaca is complete without drinking some mezcal.