30 Best Tourist spots & Things to Do in Oaxaca City | Dec 2025
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What activities can I do in Oaxaca City?
There are plenty of things to do in Oaxaca City, Mexico. Here are some recommendations: 1. Explore the Historic Center: Start your visit by wandering around the charming streets of the Historic Center. Admire the colonial architecture, visit the main square (Zocalo), and explore the beautiful churches and museums. 2. Visit the Santo Domingo Church and Cultural Center: This stunning church is a must-see in Oaxaca. Inside, you'll find a museum showcasing Oaxacan art and artifacts, as well as beautiful gardens to stroll through. 3. Explore the Markets: Oaxaca is known for its vibrant markets. Visit the Mercado Benito Juarez for fresh produce, local crafts, and delicious street food. Don't miss the Mercado 20 de Noviembre for its famous food stalls serving up traditional Oaxacan cuisine like tlayudas and mole. 4. Take a Cooking Class: Oaxaca is a food lover's paradise, so why not learn how to cook some of the local dishes? Take a cooking class and discover the secrets behind traditional Oaxacan recipes like tamales, mole, and mezcal. 5. Visit the Archaeological Site of Monte Alban: Just outside of Oaxaca City, you'll find the ancient ruins of Monte Alban. Explore the impressive Zapotec site, which dates back to around 500 BC, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding valley. 6. Explore the Ethnobotanical Garden: Located near Santo Domingo Church, the Ethnobotanical Garden showcases the diverse plant life of Oaxaca. Learn about the traditional uses of plants and their importance in Oaxacan culture. 7. Take a Mezcal Tasting Tour: Oaxaca is famous for its mezcal, a distilled alcoholic beverage made from the agave plant. Take a tour of a mezcal distillery and learn about the production process while sampling different varieties of this traditional spirit. 8. Attend a Traditional Dance Performance: Oaxaca is known for its vibrant folk dances. Check the local schedule and attend a traditional dance performance, where you can witness the colorful costumes and energetic music of the region. 9. Visit the Museum of Oaxacan Cultures: Located in the former monastery of Santo Domingo, this museum houses a vast collection of pre-Hispanic artifacts, including the famous treasure of Tomb 7 from Monte Alban. 10. Explore the Street Art: Oaxaca has a thriving street art scene. Take a stroll through the city and admire the colorful murals and graffiti that adorn the walls, depicting the rich cultural heritage of the region. These are just a few of the many things to do in Oaxaca City. The city offers a blend of history, culture, and culinary delights that are sure to make your visit memorable.
When is the best time to travel to Oaxaca City?
The best time to travel to Oaxaca City, Mexico is during the months of October to April. This is the dry season when the weather is mild and pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 70°F to 80°F (21°C to 27°C). The days are sunny, making it perfect for exploring the city and its surrounding attractions. During this time, you can also experience some of the city's famous festivals such as the Day of the Dead celebrations in late October and early November, and the Guelaguetza festival in July. Both of these events showcase the vibrant culture and traditions of Oaxaca, with parades, music, dancing, and delicious food. However, it's important to note that Oaxaca City can get crowded during these festival periods, so it's advisable to book accommodations and plan your itinerary in advance. Additionally, if you plan on visiting the nearby archaeological sites, such as Monte Albán or Mitla, it's best to go early in the day to avoid the heat and the crowds. Overall, the months of October to April offer the best weather and cultural experiences in Oaxaca City, making it an ideal time to visit.
Travel culture you should know when traveling to Oaxaca City
Oaxaca City, located in the state of Oaxaca in southern Mexico, is known for its rich cultural heritage. The city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is often referred to as the cultural capital of Mexico. One of the main attractions of Oaxaca City is its colonial architecture. The historic center is filled with beautiful buildings dating back to the Spanish colonial era, including the stunning Santo Domingo Church and the Oaxaca Cathedral. Walking through the streets of Oaxaca City feels like stepping back in time. Oaxaca City is also famous for its vibrant arts and crafts scene. The city is home to numerous art galleries and workshops where you can see local artisans at work. The traditional crafts of Oaxaca, such as pottery, weaving, and woodcarving, are deeply rooted in indigenous traditions and have been passed down through generations. Food is another highlight of Oaxaca City's culture. Oaxacan cuisine is considered one of the best in Mexico, known for its complex flavors and use of indigenous ingredients. The city is particularly famous for its mole sauces, which come in a variety of flavors and are made with ingredients like chocolate, chilies, and spices. Oaxaca City is also known for its street food, including tlayudas (large tortillas topped with beans, cheese, and meat) and tamales. The city is also known for its vibrant festivals and celebrations. The most famous is the Guelaguetza, a cultural festival held in July where indigenous communities from all over the state come together to showcase their traditional dances, music, and costumes. The Day of the Dead celebrations in Oaxaca City are also particularly unique and colorful, with elaborate altars and parades throughout the city. In addition to its cultural attractions, Oaxaca City is surrounded by natural beauty. The nearby Sierra Norte mountains offer opportunities for hiking and exploring indigenous communities, while the nearby archaeological site of Monte Albán provides a glimpse into the region's ancient Zapotec civilization. Overall, Oaxaca City is a must-visit destination for those interested in Mexican culture. Its rich history, traditional crafts, delicious cuisine, and vibrant festivals make it a truly unique and captivating place to explore.
Shopping list or souvenirs to buy when traveling to Oaxaca City
When visiting Oaxaca City, Mexico, there are several unique shopping items and souvenirs that you can consider purchasing. Here are some popular options: 1. Oaxacan Handicrafts: Oaxaca is known for its vibrant and intricate handicrafts. Look for items such as alebrijes (colorful wooden animal figurines), woven textiles, pottery, and black clay pottery (known as barro negro). 2. Mezcal: Oaxaca is famous for its mezcal production. You can find a wide variety of mezcal brands and flavors in Oaxaca City. Consider buying a bottle or two to take home as a unique and authentic souvenir. 3. Traditional Mexican Clothing: Oaxaca is a great place to find traditional Mexican clothing, such as embroidered blouses and dresses known as huipiles. These garments are beautifully crafted and showcase the rich cultural heritage of the region. 4. Chocolate: Oaxaca is also known for its delicious chocolate. Look for locally made chocolate bars, hot chocolate mixes, or mole sauces that incorporate chocolate. These make for great gifts or treats for yourself. 5. Jewelry: Oaxaca is home to talented artisans who create beautiful jewelry pieces. Look for silver jewelry, especially pieces that incorporate traditional Oaxacan designs. 6. Textiles: Oaxaca is famous for its textile production, including rugs, blankets, and woven fabrics. Look for colorful and intricately designed textiles that showcase the region's weaving traditions. 7. Traditional Masks: Oaxaca is known for its traditional dances and ceremonies, many of which involve the use of masks. Consider purchasing a traditional mask as a unique and decorative souvenir. 8. Coffee: Oaxaca is also known for its coffee production. Look for locally grown and roasted coffee beans or ground coffee to bring back home. Remember to always buy from reputable shops and support local artisans to ensure the authenticity and quality of your purchases.
Oaxaca City travel review
Oaxaca City: A Cultural Gem of Mexico Located in the southern part of Mexico, Oaxaca City is a vibrant and culturally rich destination that offers a truly immersive travel experience. With its colonial architecture, ancient ruins, colorful markets, and delicious cuisine, Oaxaca City is a must-visit for any traveler seeking to explore the diverse beauty of Mexico. One of the first things that strikes visitors upon arriving in Oaxaca City is its stunning colonial architecture. The city's historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is filled with beautifully preserved buildings that date back to the 16th century. Strolling through the cobblestone streets, you will encounter grand churches, elegant mansions, and charming plazas, all showcasing the city's rich colonial past. The Santo Domingo Church and the Cathedral of Oaxaca are particularly impressive examples of Spanish Baroque architecture that should not be missed. Beyond its architectural wonders, Oaxaca City is also home to a wealth of ancient ruins that offer a glimpse into the region's pre-Columbian history. Just a short distance from the city, you will find the archaeological site of Monte Albán, once the capital of the Zapotec civilization. Exploring this ancient city, you can marvel at its pyramids, temples, and ball courts, all set against a backdrop of breathtaking mountain views. Another nearby site worth visiting is Mitla, known for its intricate stone mosaics and intricate geometric designs. Oaxaca City is also famous for its vibrant markets, where you can immerse yourself in the local culture and indulge in some retail therapy. The Mercado Benito Juarez is a bustling market where you can find everything from fresh produce and spices to traditional handicrafts and textiles. The Mercado de Artesanias, on the other hand, is a treasure trove of artisanal products, including intricately woven rugs, colorful pottery, and beautifully carved wooden figurines. These markets are not only great places to shop but also offer an opportunity to interact with the friendly locals and learn about their way of life. No visit to Oaxaca City would be complete without sampling its mouthwatering cuisine, which is considered one of the best in Mexico. The city is known for its rich culinary traditions, with dishes like mole, tlayudas, and mezcal gaining international recognition. Food lovers can take part in cooking classes or food tours to learn about the local ingredients and techniques that make Oaxacan cuisine so unique. And of course, no meal is complete without a glass of mezcal, the region's smoky and flavorful agave-based spirit. In addition to its cultural attractions, Oaxaca City also hosts a variety of festivals and events throughout the year that showcase its lively spirit. The Guelaguetza, held in July, is a colorful celebration of Oaxacan culture, featuring traditional dances, music, and costumes. During Day of the Dead in November, the city comes alive with vibrant altars, parades, and candlelit processions, honoring the departed in a truly enchanting way. Whether you are a history buff, a foodie, or simply a traveler seeking an authentic cultural experience, Oaxaca City has something to offer. Its rich history, stunning architecture, vibrant markets, and delicious cuisine make it a truly unforgettable destination. So pack your bags and get ready to immerse yourself in the magic of Oaxaca City, where ancient traditions meet modern vibrancy.