These are the best things to do in Oaxaca City and beyond.
As Oaxaca City gains even more attention among travelers in the know, visitors are discovering countless ways to fully immerse themselves in the city’s vibrant culture and rich traditions. What was once a little-visited city in one of Mexico’s poorest states, has now become an extended getaway, inviting exploration beyond the historic center into Oaxaca’s state’s charming villages and nearby natural wonders.
Known for its intricate weaving of indigenous heritage with colonial influences, the city reveals itself through lively markets, extraordinary cuisine, and striking architecture. Oaxaca’s spirit is in every plaza and painted facade, in the aroma of freshly ground chocolate and mezcal.
Allow this guide to inspire your journey through Oaxaca City’s multifaceted offerings, each experience offering a new way to fall under its spell. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems you might not yet know, this guide provides the perfect overview of the city’s many faces, ensuring a rich and rewarding exploration. Here are the best things to do in Oaxaca City Mexico an beyond.
Looking for where to stay in Oaxaca City?
All our recommendations for where to stay in Oaxaca can be found in our Best Hotels in Oaxaca City Guide.
Our top recommendations which we come back to again and again are:
27 Best Things to Do in Oaxaca
So what to see in Oaxaca City? These are our top editor recommendations for first time visitors to Oaxaca City.
1. Visit the Templo de Santo Domingo
No visit to Oaxaca City would be complete without stepping into the splendor of the Templo de Santo Domingo, a stunning 16th-century church that epitomizes colonial-era grandeur. The façade alone is awe-inspiring, with intricate stonework that hints at the beauty within.
Step inside, and you’ll find yourself immersed in a world of gilded altars, elaborate stucco work, and a soaring, barrel-vaulted ceiling adorned with delicate frescoes and vibrant gold leaf detailing.
It’s hard to miss the sense of reverence that fills the space; especially when the golden light pours in from the heavens. Santo Domingo Church is more than just a religious site; it’s a journey through the layers of Oaxacan heritage and artistry, making it one of the city’s most captivating experiences.
2. Visit the Museum of Cultures of Oaxaca
The Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca, Santo Domingo is an essential stop for anyone looking to dive deeper into Oaxaca’s fascinating cultural heritage. Located in the beautifully restored convent attached to the Templo de Santo Domingo, the museum guides visitors through centuries of Oaxacan history and art.
The building itself is beautiful, but its impressive collection spans pre-Hispanic artifacts, including ceremonial objects and jewelry discovered at Monte Albán, to colonial and contemporary exhibits that trace the state’s complex cultural evolution. The museum’s architecture is as captivating as its contents, with spacious corridors and arched windows that frame views of the surrounding botanical gardens and city.
Walking through its galleries, one can trace the vibrant mix of indigenous and colonial influences that have shaped Oaxaca into the city it is today, making it an enriching and immersive experience.
3. Stroll through the Jardín Etnobotánico de Oaxaca
Visiting the Museum of Cultures offers a preview of the beauty that awaits in the Etnobotanic Garden of Oaxaca. While you can catch glimpses of its vibrant greenery from the museum’s upper floors, stepping inside this garden is a must to fully appreciate its splendor.
Spanning over two hectares, the garden was created to celebrate and conserve Oaxaca’s unique botanical heritage, showcasing hundreds of native plant species that are integral to the region’s ecosystem and traditional practices.
Wandering through its paths, you’ll encounter towering cacti, delicate succulents, medicinal herbs, and flowering trees, each section meticulously curated to reflect Oaxaca’s diverse climates and landscapes.
On a guided tour (the only option to visit the botanical garden), you’ll gain insights into the cultural and ecological significance of each plant, from their traditional medicinal uses to their symbolic roles in local rituals.
Guided tours are available at various times throughout the day in Spanish and English. Find out more on their website.
4. Explore Barrio Jalatlaco in Oaxaca
Strolling through Barrio Jalatlaco is like stepping into one of Oaxaca’s most vibrant, hidden corners. This charming neighborhood, with its narrow cobblestone streets and colorful murals, is a treasure trove of local culture and artistry. Known for its relaxed vibe and artistic flair, Jalatlaco is dotted with cozy cafés, artisan shops, and traditional bakeries, making it a great place to slow down and soak in the city’s creative spirit.
Murals celebrating Indigenous culture and Day of the Dead traditions add a unique, authentic touch, inviting you to explore every alleyway. Whether you’re browsing handcrafted jewelry, sipping local coffee, or simply wandering its picturesque streets, Barrio Jalatlaco is an experience you won’t want to miss.
Read more: Jalatlaco, Oaxaca: An Insider’s Guide to the Colorful Barrio
5. Explore the Xochimilco neighborhood in Oaxaca City
Exploring the Xochimilco neighborhood reveals one of Oaxaca City’s oldest and most authentic areas, rich with history and vibrant local life. Known for its winding cobblestone streets and traditional adobe houses, Xochimilco feels like a village within the city, where life moves at a slower, more intentional pace.
The neighborhood is particularly famous for its beautiful aqueduct, which dates back to the colonial era and adds a historic charm to the area. Artisanal workshops, local eateries, and colorful street art line its quiet streets, offering glimpses into Oaxaca’s enduring traditions and community spirit. A stroll through Xochimilco is a chance to connect with Oaxaca’s roots, making it a perfect place to unwind and experience the city’s authentic soul.
Read more: Visiting Barrio Xochimilco, Oaxaca’s Oldest Neighborhood
6. Visit Oaxaca City’s Markets
Oaxaca City’s markets are vibrant, sensory-filled experiences that reveal the heart of its culinary and cultural life. Begin at Mercado Benito Juárez, a bustling spot known for its colorful displays of spices, Oaxacan chocolate, and regional cheeses, perfect for a true taste of local flavors.
Just a few steps away is Mercado 20 de Noviembre, home to the famous pasillo de humo, or “smoke aisle,” where you can savor the mouthwatering aromas of meats grilling over open flames, from chorizo to tasajo, all served with fresh tortillas and salsas.
For a truly expansive experience, head to Mercado de Abastos, the city’s largest market, where you can find everything from fresh produce and local delicacies to handcrafted goods. These local markets aren’t just shopping destinations—they’re vibrant hubs where you can experience the sounds, colors, and tastes of Oaxaca, each visit offering a glimpse into the city’s soul.
Read more: 10 Best Markets in Oaxaca
7. Connect with History and Heritage at Monte Alban
Just outside Oaxaca City, Monte Albán offers a breathtaking connection to the region’s ancient history and heritage as one of the top things to see in Oaxaca City.
This UNESCO World Heritage Site and ancient ruins was once the thriving center of Zapotec civilization, its hilltop location providing panoramic views of the Oaxaca Valley.
As you explore the site’s grand plazas, towering pyramids, and intricately carved stelae, it’s easy to imagine the life that once pulsed through these ancient stones. A visit to Monte Albán not only unveils the engineering marvels of pre-Hispanic Mexico but also invites you to connect deeply with Oaxaca’s ancestral roots, making it a truly enriching experience.
Read more: Exploring Monte Albán: A Quest through Oaxaca’s Sacred City
8. Visit the Oaxaca Textile Museum
The Oaxaca Textile Museum is a must-visit for those interested in the artistry and cultural significance of traditional textiles. Housed in a beautifully restored colonial building in the city center, the museum showcases an impressive collection of handwoven pieces from Oaxaca and across Mexico, each highlighting the intricate craftsmanship and symbolism unique to indigenous communities.
Exhibits explore the region’s diverse weaving techniques, natural dyeing methods, and patterns that often reflect personal and cultural stories. There are also rotating modern textile exhibitions showing new designs and techniques. Beyond its exhibits, the museum also hosts workshops and demonstrations, providing visitors with a deeper understanding of Oaxaca’s textile heritage and the artisans dedicated to preserving it.
9. Visit the Centro Cultural San Pablo
The Centro Cultural San Pablo is a beautifully restored cultural space in Oaxaca City, around the corner from the Textile Museum that blends modern design with historical charm. Once a 16th-century convent, this serene space now serves as a vibrant center for preserving and celebrating indigenous Oaxacan culture.
The center hosts rotating art exhibitions, cultural events, and workshops that highlight the diversity of Oaxaca’s indigenous languages, traditions, and crafts. Its tranquil courtyards, stone archways, and restored frescoes create an inspiring atmosphere that invites reflection.
10. Take a Cooking Class
When it comes to what to do in Oaxaca City, taking a cooking class in Oaxaca is one of the best ways to dive into the city’s rich culinary heritage, where traditional techniques and local ingredients come to life. The food is one of the top reasons to visit Oaxaca alone.
Que Rico Es Oaxaca offers immersive cooking classes that often begin with a market tour, allowing you to select fresh produce and spices before preparing authentic dishes under the guidance of experienced Oaxacan chefs.
For a unique experience, La Cocina de Humo specializes in traditional cooking techniques, focusing on the use of a wood-fired comal to make handmade tortillas and mole in the traditional way. These classes provide not just a meal but a deeper connection to Oaxaca’s vibrant food culture and ancestral cooking methods.
11. Sample Oaxaca’s Best Mezcal
Sampling Oaxaca’s best mezcal is an essential part of any visit, offering a taste of the region’s distinctive spirit and culture. Oaxaca is the heart of mezcal production, and bars like Mezcalería In Situ provide a curated selection of artisanal mezcals sourced directly from small-batch producers.
Another top spot is La Mezcaloteca, where knowledgeable staff guide you through tastings, explaining the unique flavors of each variety based on the agave species and production techniques. For a relaxed setting, Los Amantes Mezcalería offers an inviting atmosphere to savor premium mezcal while learning about its deep cultural roots. Each of these bars provides a memorable introduction to mezcal’s complexity, making for an unforgettable experience.
Read more: The Best Bars in Oaxaca City
12. Visit Oaxaca’s Best Cafes
Oaxaca’s café culture is both vibrant and diverse, with a variety of spots perfect for a caffeine fix and a relaxed atmosphere. Sagrado Filemón is a standout for its cozy ambiance and commitment to sourcing beans from small, local farmers, giving visitors a true taste of Oaxacan coffee.
Marito & Moglie brings a touch of Mediterranean flair to Oaxaca, where expertly crafted espresso drinks pair beautifully with homemade pastries in a charming setting ideal for breakfast.
Nono Café is a favorite among our editors for its minimalist decor and focus on quality brews, offering a peaceful spot to unwind. Meanwhile, Kiyo Café blends Japanese and Oaxacan influences, serving up specialty coffee in a sleek, Zen-inspired art space.
Read more: The Best Cafes in Oaxaca City
13. Pop into the Photographic Center Manuel Alvaro Bravo
For fans of photography, a visit to the Photographic Center Manuel Álvarez Bravo is a must in Oaxaca. This intimate gallery and cultural space is dedicated to showcasing the work of renowned Mexican photographers, as well as international artists who have captured the essence of Oaxaca and Mexico’s diverse landscapes and people.
Named after the influential Mexican photographer Manuel Álvarez Bravo, the center offers rotating exhibitions, workshops, and events, making it a vibrant hub for contemporary and classic photography alike. With its serene courtyard and thoughtfully curated exhibits, this center is one of the best things to do in Oaxaca City for creatives.
14. Visit the Museum of Contemporary Art and Oaxaca Cultures
The Museum of Contemporary Art and Oaxaca Cultures, known as MACO, is a dynamic space that highlights Oaxaca’s vibrant contemporary art scene within a stunning 18th-century building.
Located in the heart of Oaxaca City, MACO showcases an ever-evolving array of exhibitions featuring both local and international artists, blending traditional Oaxacan themes with modern expression.
The museum’s beautiful architecture, with its high ceilings, spacious courtyards, and restored frescoes, provides a unique backdrop for the art on display. A visit to MACO offers insight into the region’s cultural evolution, where past and present coexist in compelling ways, making it a must-see for art lovers.
15. Ogle at the Macedonio Alcala Theatre
The Macedonio Alcalá Theatre is a gem of neoclassical architecture in Oaxaca City, captivating visitors with its ornate design and historic charm. Opened in 1909, this beautifully preserved theater boasts an elegant facade, and inside, grand chandeliers, intricate plasterwork, and velvet-draped balconies transport you back to a time of opulent performances.
The theater regularly hosts cultural events, concerts, and dance performances, allowing guests to experience Oaxaca’s artistic talent in a truly stunning setting. Even if you don’t attend a show, a tour of the theater reveals its breathtaking design details.
16. Go Shopping for Oaxacan Handicrafts
Oaxaca is a treasure trove of traditional handicrafts, offering unique and beautifully crafted pieces that reflect the region’s rich heritage and artisanal skill. Shopping here isn’t just about bringing home a souvenir; it’s about supporting local artisans and experiencing Oaxaca’s deep-rooted craft traditions firsthand.
For Ceramics/Pottery
Oaxaca’s pottery scene is renowned, with black clay ceramics from San Bartolo Coyotepec being especially iconic. Head to Huizache “Pueblos Originarios de Oaxaca”
and Colectivo 1050°, where you’ll find beautiful handmade pieces in a variety of traditional and modern styles. These stores offer everything from intricate candle holders to sleek, minimalist bowls, each crafted with precision and care.
For beautiful handblown glass check out Xaquixe too.
For Textiles and Rugs
Oaxaca is known for its exquisite textiles, with many designs coming from the weaving village of Teotitlán del Valle, where artisans hand-dye yarn using natural pigments and craft intricate patterns inspired by Zapotec traditions. A great starting point is the Museo Textil de Oaxaca, which showcases traditional and contemporary textile techniques and often features exhibitions by master weavers.
For buying high-quality pieces, Arnulfo Mendoza Ruiz Taller is a top choice, offering an array of handwoven rugs and textiles that are true works of art. rrres studio takes a contemporary approach to Oaxacan textiles, working closely with local weavers to create modern designs that respect traditional techniques.
For Clothing
Oaxaca’s artisan clothing blends traditional craftsmanship with contemporary fashion, making it a perfect destination for unique, ethically made pieces. Manchanta offers beautifully embroidered garments that highlight local craftsmanship in every stitch. Xico 303 is a boutique known for its modern interpretations of traditional designs, featuring vibrant colors and innovative styles that bring Oaxacan heritage into the present.
Origen Textil is a must for lovers of natural fibers and handwoven textiles, with each item crafted sustainably by local artisans. Tienda Q also carries a select range of clothing, emphasizing artisanal quality and traditional weaving techniques. Each of these boutiques provides one-of-a-kind pieces that embody Oaxaca’s artistic spirit.
Read more: Must-Visit Local Boutiques for Shopping in Oaxaca City
17. Visit the Museo de Arte Prehispánico de México Rufino Tamayo
The Museo de Arte Prehispánico de México Rufino Tamayo is a fascinating little museum dedicated to Mexico’s rich pre-Hispanic heritage. Founded by renowned Oaxacan artist Rufino Tamayo, the museum houses an impressive personal collection of ancient artifacts, each piece chosen for its artistic value rather than solely historical significance.
The collection spans various Mesoamerican cultures, showcasing intricately crafted pottery, statues, masks, and ceremonial objects that reveal the artistry of early civilizations. The museum’s intimate setting, with its vibrant colors and carefully curated displays, reflects Tamayo’s unique vision, making it both an educational and aesthetically captivating experience.
18. Dine at the City’s Best Restaurants
Dining in Oaxaca City is a journey into the heart of Mexico’s culinary heritage, where traditional flavors meet contemporary innovation. At Levadura de Olla, Chef Thalía Barrios offers a menu that celebrates Oaxacan ingredients, with dishes that feel both familiar and refreshingly inventive.
Criollo, by Chef Enrique Olvera, brings a sophisticated, modern touch to Oaxacan cuisine, offering a multi-course dining experience that highlights seasonal ingredients in a serene, beautifully designed space.
Casa Oaxaca, known for its rooftop views and artful dishes, is a local favorite for traditional recipes elevated with refined presentation. Los Danzantes provides a stylish setting with dishes rooted in Oaxacan flavors, paired with an extensive mezcal selection, while CRUDO brings a unique take on Oaxacan cuisine, specializing in seafood-focused dishes with bold flavors and innovative twists.
Each of these restaurants offers a distinct way to savor Oaxaca’s culinary artistry, making dining here a true highlight.
For the full list read: 24 Best Restaurants in Oaxaca City
For more plant-based options read: 12 Top Vegetarian and Vegan Restaurants in Oaxaca City
19. Visit the Museo de los Pintores Oaxaqueños
The Museo de los Pintores Oaxaqueños (MUPO) is a must-visit for art lovers eager to experience Oaxaca’s vibrant visual culture. Located in a charming colonial building in the city center, MUPO is dedicated to showcasing the work of Oaxacan artists, both emerging and established, with a particular focus on the region’s distinct artistic movements.
The museum’s exhibits cover a range of media, from paintings and prints to sculpture and mixed media, offering insights into the unique perspectives of artists inspired by Oaxaca’s landscapes, traditions, and indigenous heritage.
With its rotating exhibitions and beautifully curated permanent collection, MUPO serves as an inspiring space to connect with the creativity and talent that defines Oaxaca’s art scene.
20. People Watch in Zocalo
The Zócalo, Oaxaca City’s bustling main square, is the perfect place to sit back and soak up the local atmosphere. Surrounded by colonial buildings, shaded by giant laurel trees, and filled with the sounds of street musicians, this lively plaza is a gathering place for both locals and visitors.
Grab a coffee or a cold drink at one of the nearby coffee shops and watch as vendors, families, and artisans go about their day. It’s a prime spot to witness Oaxaca’s everyday life unfold, from spontaneous music performances to colorful parades, offering an authentic glimpse into the city’s vibrant community.
21. Participate in a Temazcal Ritual
Participating in a temazcal ritual is a powerful way to connect with ancient Oaxacan healing traditions. This traditional sauna ceremony, led by a trained healer, takes place in a small, dome-shaped structure and is intended to purify both body and mind. As heated stones are infused with medicinal herbs, the steam fills the space, encouraging deep relaxation and introspection.
The experience is often accompanied by chanting or meditation, grounding participants in the centuries-old ritual’s spiritual significance. It’s a rejuvenating journey that allows for a profound connection to indigenous wisdom and Oaxacan culture.
Read more: Oaxaca Temazcal: The Best Temazcal Rituals in the City
Best Things to Do Just Outside Oaxaca City
22. Visit Santa Maria Atzompa
A visit to Santa María Atzompa offers a unique glimpse into one of Oaxaca’s most celebrated pottery villages, renowned for its traditional green-glazed ceramics.
Located just a short taxi ride from Oaxaca de Juarez, Atzompa has been a hub of pottery making since pre-Hispanic times, with artisans continuing to craft beautiful pieces by hand, often using the same techniques passed down through generations.
Strolling through the village, you’ll find workshops and studios where potters shape clay into everything from decorative vases to intricate figures, each finished with a distinctive green glaze unique to the region.
Visitors can also explore the recently excavated archaeological site, which includes a Mesoamerican ball court and ancient structures, adding a historical layer to the village’s rich cultural experience. If you have more time in Oaxaca, this is one of the best things to do in Oaxaca City.
23. Explore the Overlooked Yagul Pyramids
Exploring the Yagul Pyramids offers a quieter, off-the-beaten-path experience of Oaxaca’s ancient history. Located about an hour from Oaxaca City, Yagul, a UNESCO World Heritage Site was once an important city for the Zapotec civilization, and today it stands as an archaeological site that reveals remnants of this powerful culture.
The site is perched on a hillside, providing stunning views of the surrounding Tlacolula Valley, adding to the sense of discovery and solitude. Highlights include the intricate stone carvings of the Hall of the Niches, a ceremonial ball court, and an ancient fortress with panoramic vistas.
Visiting Yagul allows you to delve into Oaxaca’s past without the crowds of Monte Alban, making it an ideal spot for history enthusiasts seeking a more intimate experience.
24. Visit the Ex Convento Cuilapam de Guerrero
The Ex Convento Cuilapam de Guerrero is a partially completed 16th-century monastery, striking in its open-air design, with stone arches, massive columns, and intricate architectural details that remain beautifully preserved. Visiting is like stepping back in time to Oaxaca’s colonial past.
Originally built by Dominican friars, the convent’s open chapel was intended to accommodate large indigenous congregations and reflects the blend of European and indigenous influences that define much of Oaxacan history. It’s also historically significant as the place where Mexican independence leader Vicente Guerrero was executed in 1831.
The convent’s serene, haunting beauty and its quiet surroundings make it a memorable and contemplative visit for those interested in Oaxaca’s layered history.
25. Visit San Bartolo Coyotepec
For those wanting to delve in deeper into Oaxaca’s ceramics culture, there’s San Bartolo Coyotepec. The town offers a firsthand look at the craft behind Oaxaca’s famous black clay pottery, known locally as barro negro. This small town, just outside Oaxaca City, is celebrated for its artisans who skillfully shape and polish the unique black clay into stunning decorative and functional pieces.
Many studios in San Bartolo welcome visitors, allowing you to see the pottery-making process up close, from molding to firing. It’s also a wonderful place to shop for one-of-a-kind pottery that embodies centuries of tradition and craftsmanship, making each piece a true work of art and a distinctive Oaxacan keepsake.
26. Visit the Tree of Tule
The Tree of Tule in Santa María del Tule is a natural wonder worth the short drive from Oaxaca City. This ancient Montezuma cypress, affectionately called El Árbol del Tule, is not only one of the oldest trees in Mexico—estimated at over 2,000 years old—but also holds the record for the widest tree trunk in the world, stretching over 40 meters in circumference.
As you walk around, you’ll notice unique shapes within its twisted, gnarled bark, with locals pointing out figures of animals, faces, and mythical creatures woven into the tree’s massive form. Surrounded by well-kept gardens and a serene atmosphere, the Tree of Tule invites visitors to connect with Oaxaca’s deep-rooted natural heritage, making it a peaceful and memorable experience.
Read more: How to Visit the Tree of Tule
27. Discover Hierve El Agua
Hierve El Agua, just a couple of hours from Oaxaca City, offers a surreal landscape that feels like stepping onto another planet. This unique site, meaning “the water boils,” features natural mineral springs that flow over the cliffs, leaving behind dramatic petrified waterfalls over centuries.
With pools of turquoise water set against breathtaking views of the mountains, Hierve El Agua is as photogenic as it is awe-inspiring. Visitors can take a dip in the pools, hike around the surrounding trails, or simply take in the unusual rock formations. Both a natural wonder and a tranquil escape, Hierve El Agua provides a perfect mix of relaxation and adventure, making it one of the best things to do in Oaxaca state.
Read more: The Complete Guide to Visiting Hierve El Agua Oaxaca, Mexico
Know Before You Go
How to Get to Oaxaca City
Getting to Oaxaca City is easy, with multiple travel options from the U.S. and other parts of Mexico. Direct flights are available from major U.S. cities like Los Angeles, Dallas, and Houston, typically landing at Oaxaca International Airport within a few hours.
For travelers within Mexico, direct flights from Mexico City are frequent and convenient, with a quick 1-hour flight connecting the two cities. Alternatively, Oaxaca City is accessible by an overnight bus from Mexico City for those preferring a longer route.
Getting Around Oaxaca
Getting around Oaxaca City is mostly done on foot, as most of the city center is walkable and packed with sights, shops, and restaurants all within strolling distance. You won’t need a rental car to explore the city itself—taxis are readily available for any spots just beyond the center. For a more budget-friendly option, basic buses and colectivos (shared taxis) offer a local experience, though they can be crowded and less predictable.
If you’re planning to visit destinations farther afield, like Hierve El Agua or the coast at Puerto Escondido, renting a car can add flexibility to your trip, allowing you to set your own pace and explore some of Oaxaca’s hidden gems along the way.
Best Time to Visit Oaxaca
Oaxaca City generally has a spring-like climate all year round. The best time to visit Oaxaca is from October to April, when the weather is mild, dry, and ideal for exploring the city and its surroundings. November is particularly popular, as it brings the vibrant Day of the Dead celebrations, while July features the colorful Guelaguetza festival, a showcase of Oaxacan culture and dance.
Summers can be rainy, but the lush landscapes around the region are stunning at this time. For more details on each season and what they offer, check out our full guide to the best times to visit Oaxaca.
Practical Oaxaca Tips
When visiting Oaxaca, a few practical tips can help make your trip smoother. First, avoid drinking tap water; opt for bottled or filtered water, which is widely available. Bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated while exploring.
It’s also wise to save space in your luggage—Oaxaca is known for its beautiful handicrafts, textiles, and pottery, so you’ll likely find plenty of items to bring home. Bring comfortable walking shoes as the city’s cobblestone streets can be tricky in sandals and definitely leave heels at home- Oaxaca is very much a relaxed-chic kind of destination.
Finally, carry small bills and coins, as many local markets and vendors may not accept credit cards or large bills. You’ll also need small change for public toilets or street food.
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