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things to do in Oaxaca city

29 AWESOME THINGS TO DO IN OAXACA

From colorful colonial architecture to indigenous archeological sites, to bustling markets, delicious food, lovely handicrafts, and textiles, to awesome mezcalerias, there is no getting bored in the incredible city of Oaxaca!

It is by far one of my favorite cities in Mexico, along with the colorful city of Guanajuato.

Oaxaca is full of culture and tradition and feels like one of the country’s most authentic cities to visit.  It’s also one of the most ethnically diverse parts of the country, which is made up of the Zapotec and Mixtec, who vary in culture and language.

I spent my days wandering the streets and trying out the mouth-watering food. Did I mention it’s the culinary capital of Mexico?

There is a long list of incredible things to do in Oaxaca.  Not only can you explore the city, but you also go on day trips, learn about the famous alcoholic beverage mezcal, enjoy swimming at Hierve el Agua, explore ancient ruins at Monte Alban, and participate in the famous Dia de Los Muertos festivities.

Here are the top things to do in Oaxaca:

*Don’t miss visiting one of the best cities in Mexico.

29 Awesome Things to Do In Oaxaca

things to do in Oaxaca city

Table of Contents

Things To Do In Oaxaca

Free Walking Tour

I’m a huge fan of walking tours, especially as a solo traveler.  They are great for a few reasons.  One, you make new friends. Two, a local leads you to learn about the best places in the city and gives you background information.  Three, it’s a cheap way to see the city because they are free (but a tip is welcome of course and in my opinion should be given).

The tour I went on was with my hostel, Casa Angel.  Our guide took us to see some awesome graffiti around the city, to taste some delicious food, to the market to taste cacao, and it ended with a viewpoint of the city near our hostel.

A free tour also starts every day at 10 AM in front of the Oaxaca Cathedral.  It lasts around two hours, and you get great recommendations from the guide.

things to do in Oaxaca city
walking tour oaxaca

Santo Domingo Church

The Templo de Santo Domingo is one of the main churches to visit in the city of Oaxaca.  It’s beautiful inside and out; no matter if you’re religious or not, you can admire the architecture and details of the church.  It was a former monastery founded in 1575 by the Dominican Order.

It has a baroque facade and thick stone walls.  Inside, it boasts a decorated interior glazed in gold.  The church is considered one of the country’s most beautiful churches.

You might even get a view of a wedding ceremony because it’s a popular church in Mexico to get married. What’s special about a ceremony here is the celebration waiting outside the church.

When the ceremony is over, there are folk dancers known as Chinas Oaxaqueñas. The Chinas Oaxaqueñas wear embroidered skirts and shirts and are part of a calenda, festive parades to celebrate graduations, parades, and quinceaneras.

The Chinas Oaxaqueñas wait for the couple outside the church, and they dance with baskets and flowers balanced on their heads.

things to do in Oaxaca city

Museum of Culture

After visiting the Santo Domingo church, you can go next door to it to visit the Museo de las Culturas. It’s where you’ll find a beautiful monastery building and the history and culture of the region.

It has an incredible display of the Treasure of Tomb 7, a collection of precious stones and gold jewelry discovered in a Monte Alban tomb.

Ethnobotanical Garden

Also, next to the Templo de Domingo is a beautiful botanical garden will all kinds of regional flora and beautiful cacti.  This is a great place to take pictures and wander around.  It carries the name ethnic due to the plants inside being chosen carefully for their cultural value to the ethnic groups in Oaxaca.

things to do in Oaxaca city

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    Stroll the Streets

    The best thing to do in many small towns and beautiful cities like this is strolling the historic streets.  Oaxaca has one of the liveliest I’ve seen, and I went during peak Covid days when more people were staying home.  I can’t imagine how lively it gets during regular and high seasons.

    The surprising thing about his liveliness is that it wasn’t even tourists. It was local people who got out to enjoy the streets and the plazas.  It’s an incredible thing to see.

    Plus, the streets are colorful and beautiful with cobblestone streets, murals, graffiti, and churches with fantastic architecture.

    One great street to walk is the pedestrian-friendly Calle Alcala.  This street does not allow cars to pass, making it easy to stroll and visit the galleries, cafes, bars, mezcalerias, and artisan shops you pass.

    things to do in Oaxaca city

    El Zócalo

    El Zócalo is Oaxaca’s main square in the center of town.  It is one of the liveliest squares I’ve seen through my travels in Mexico.  You can people-watch, grab street food, sit down to listen to street musicians, or join the crowds listening to the clown acts.

    Whether you go during the day or night, people will always walk around enjoying the social scene. You can also find traditional handicrafts and souvenirs as you stroll the area. What I liked about El Zocalo was how local families gathered to spend their time there.  It’s a beautiful scene.

    things to do in Oaxaca city
    things to do in Oaxaca city

    Visit a Mezcaleria

    I’m pretty sure you’ve heard of tequila.  But have you ever heard of mezcal?  Mezcal is a popular alcoholic drink throughout Mexico, but even more so in Oaxaca, where it is mainly produced.  It basically tastes like a smokier, tastier, and stronger version of Tequila.

    It gets the smoky flavor from being fermented and cooked in lava rock-lined pits with wood and coal, and then they are distilled in clay pots.  Although many mezcalerias now use more modern methods, you can still find some who practice the old traditional way.

    A mezcaleria, simply put, is a bar that serves and specializes in mezcal.  There are a few around the city to visit.  Some you walk into like any regular bar, and some you need to reserve beforehand.

    Here is a list of some you can visit:

    • Los Amantes: Artisenal, 100% Espadin Agave
    • El Cortijo: A representative brand of agave in the region.
    • Mezcaloteca: A popular choice with knowledgeable staff.  Call to make a reservation.
    • Mexcalillera: A variety of great mezcal.
    • La Mezcalerita: Colorful cantina (bar) with rooftop terrace, craft beer & cocktails.
    • Mezcalogia: A small and busy bar with live music and great cocktails.
    • La Petra Cholateria & Mezcaleria: You have a choice of hot chocolate or mezcal.
    mezcal oaxaca
    La Petra Chocolateria & Mezcaleria

    Mezcal Tour

    On that note, don’t skip on the chance to go on a tour of a Mezcal distillery.  Similar to the Tequila Tours in Guadalajara, Oaxaca also has distilleries to visit and learn how mezcal is made.

    You’ll quickly learn that mezcal is meant to be drunk slowly, not as a shot.  The same goes for Tequila. You’ll also learn about the piñas, the heart of the agave plant.

    The piñas are roasted in an underground pit with hot rocks for a few days.  Once they are uncovered, they are macerated by donkeys and mules who help with the fermentation process called tauna.

    Lastly, the agave plants are distilled into a smoky, strong, and delicious drink.

    In all honesty, I think it’s a huge mistake if you don’t give yourself the chance to try a mezcal drink at least once in Oaxaca!

    Here are some distilleries to visit or go on tour with:

    • Rey de Matatlan
    • La Bugambilias Mezcal Distillery Tour
    • Casa Don Tacho
    • Gracias a Dios
    • Casa Cortes
    casa angel oaxaca hostel

    Cerro del Fortin

    One of the things I most love doing in a city is heading to a viewpoint for the panoramic views.  Not too far from the city center is Cerro del Fortin, home to an auditorium that holds concerts and a Benito Juarez statue.  On the way up the hill, you can appreciate some nice graffiti.

    There are concerns about safety in this area about being mugged, so I recommend visiting with a walking tour or during busy days and hours if you decide to go on your own.

    things to do in Oaxaca city

    Barrio Jalatlaco

    One of my favorite places to stroll in Oaxaca was the Jalatlaco Neighborhood.  This tranquil neighborhood has charming cobblestone streets, colorful streets, beautiful murals, boutique shops, and great restaurants.  The barrio is also home to the stone church, San Matias Jalatlaco, which dates back to the 18th century.

    My friends and I ventured into this neighborhood. We walked from the city center in only 20 minutes, but we enjoyed all the beautiful spots.

    oaxaca
    oaxaca

    Cooking Class

    For all the food lovers, taking a cooking class is a great way to learn about the region’s most traditional foods. If you’ve never tried a cooking class, I encourage you to do so.  They are fun!

    Don’t worry if you aren’t great in the kitchen.  The instructors happily teach you about their food and culture and how to cook the meal correctly.

    I’m not great in the kitchen, but cooking classes go step by step, and most people in these classes can’t cook either.  So go make some friends, learn to make a traditional place, and learn about the food you make.

    Some possible cooking things are fresh tortillas, mole from scratch, salsa, avocado, tlayudas, or even tamales.

    Classes last about 5 hours and cost around $60.  One great place to book them is through Airbnb Experiences.

    mole food oaxaca

    Mercado 20 de Noviembre

    I have to confess that one of my favorite spots in Oaxaca is where all the food is, Mercado 20 de Noviembre.  This food market in the center of the city features dozens and dozens of food stalls with all kinds of typical Oaxacan and Mexican food.

    There are so many options that it can be overwhelming to pick a spot to eat.  But that’s not a problem because you can go back several times to eat as I did. Plus, it’s cheaper than dining at restaurants and just as tasty or tastier.

    You can find all types of moles, tlayudas, tetelas, tamales, birria, cafe de olla, baked goods, salsas and so much more.  It’s food heaven, and my mouth waters just thinking about it.

    If you were to ask me which food market I enjoyed in all of Mexico, it’s this one in Oaxaca!

    mercado 20 de noviembre oaxaca

    Mercado de Artesanias

    Oaxaca isn’t only the capital of food. It’s also the capital of handicrafts (artesanias). You can get textured blankets and pillows, get some colorful hand-painted alebrijes, buy yourself hand-woven tapestry, or get something to wear such as a traditional blouse or leather huaraches.

    You can find all the traditional things that make Mexico, Mexico! Plus, you can tell that the handicrafts here are made with love and by local producers.  They are incredibly proud of their work.

    Although you can find many artesanias throughout the city’s streets, you can shop for them at Mercado de Artesanias to further see your options.

    Bartering for artesanias is a common thing, but given prices are already so cheap and locals live off of this, please be respectful and don’t underprice all the love and work they do to create these items.

    things to do in Oaxaca city

    El Mercado de Benito Juarez

    You can head to El Mercado de Benito Juarez if you’re looking for souvenirs and decor for your home. As you walk through the small alleys of the market, you’ll also find snacks, street food, handmade pottery, local ingredients, and traditional clothing.  It’s a great place to see how local life functions.

    things to do in Oaxaca city

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      El Museo de Textiles

      Textile is a huge deal in Oaxaca, and you can see its influence throughout the city.  However, to get a closer look, you can go check out the Museum, El Museo de Textil, to learn more about the making of textiles.

      It teaches you about the dyeing and weaving process of the indigenous people and helps you appreciate all the hard work that goes into making the textile products.

      Street Art Tour

      Oaxaca’s art scene is one of my favorites in Mexico because the streets are filled with colorful graffiti and murals like nowhere else.  You can stroll the streets on your own or book a tour through an Airbnb Experience.

      If you do a free walking tour, the guide will show you a few. One great spot to see murals is by Cerro de Fortin and  Barrio Jalatlaco.

      In the city center itself, you won’t find as many murals. But instead, you’ll find lots of graffiti with messages. This is because Oaxaca has long been a city of political unrest, and it shows through some art and graffiti.

      oaxaca
      oaxaca
      oaxaca
      oaxaca
      Jalatlaco

      Xochimilco Aqueducts & Quarter

      In the Xochimilco neighborhood, you can find aqueducts that date back to the 16th century.  They were built to bring fresh water from the hills around Oaxaca.

      Today, you can find this neighborhood to be full of colorful homes, lovely cobblestone streets, full of artisan work, and cute cafes. I loved strolling through the area because of the many colors.

      things to do in Oaxaca city

      Museo de Cultura

      Museum-lovers can enjoy this browsing all the ancient artifacts from the pre-Colombian era.  There is colorful art and excellent exhibitions about the area’s indigenous culture.

      Get Hot Chocolate or Coffee

      It wouldn’t be Mexico without a coffee-loving culture, especially if it’s cafe de olla.  Cafe de olla is a tasty coffee made with brown cane sugar and usually served in a clay pot. You can find many cute cafes around the city where you can have a regular coffee or a cafe de olla.

      One thing to note about Oaxaca is it’s well-known for its rich hot chocolate, which is usually also served in cute clay pots. You can even find the cacao at the market at different percentages if you want to make the chocolate yourself.

      While wandering around the streets, I saw the cutest coffee shops serving hot chocolate.  Here are some to check out:

      • Oaxaca en Una Taza: The hot chocolate can be infused with species and fruits.
      • Cafe Brujula: It has hot chocolate, chai, coffee, and pastries.
      • La Petra Cholateria & Mezcaleria: The hot chocolate was great; you can also have mezcal.
      • A.M. Cafe: Great coffee and pastries, plus the cutest signs to take pictures of.
      oaxaca

      Basilica Nuestra Señora de la Soledad

      Only six blocks from the city center, you can walk to this church to see the inside or the beautiful baroque architecture from the outside.  Entry is free, and you can visit the museum on the side to learn more about it.  If you prefer, you can sit outside to people-watch the lively plaza where it sits.  It’s worth the 10-minute detour.

      things to do in Oaxaca city

      Visit an Art Gallery

      As previously mentioned, Oaxaca is big on art.  You see it everywhere, whether it be handicrafts, textile art, murals and paintings, and colorful homes with beautiful architecture.

      So, as you wander the streets, don’t miss the chance to walk into one of the many art galleries you pass by.  They showcase all kinds of ancient, modern, folk, and indigenous art. In addition, you can see colorful paintings, sculptures, and small pieces.

      Some you can visit are, Hoja Santa, La Fábrica Woodcut, Cooperativa Gráfica, La Huella Gráfica, and Siqueiros.

      Eat All The Food

      We all know Mexico has the best food in the world (in my opinion), but let me tell you, the best food in Mexico is in the states of Oaxaca and Yucatan.  I could seriously plan a trip to Oaxaca just to go eat all the food.  Ask any Mexican, and they will tell you the top thing to do in the city is eat.

      Oaxaca is the culinary capital, and you can find incredible tasting food in the markets, on the streets, and at sit-down restaurants.  The cuisine is mouth-watering and simply the best in the country. So no matter where you choose to eat, you will indeed have a great experience.

      The state is known for its Tlayudas, which are pizza-like crispy bread or fried tortilla-like pieces prepared as something that tastes like a taco.  It’s covered in beans, meat, avocado, salsa, lettuce, and Oaxacan cheese (which is delicious, by the way).

      You can also find, tamales oaxaqueños, memelas, tetelas, empanadas oaxaqueñas, and oaxacan cheese.

      Mole is also one of the top foods in the country, with over seven kinds to taste.  Mole is about the only food in Mexico I’m not a fan of, but it’s one of the most loved foods in the Oaxaca. So perhaps I need to give the other types of mole a try so I can like it. But don’t be like me, and taste it.

      If you grab street food, always pay attention to the ones with long lines where locals are crowded around.  That probably means they are the best food places around.  Locals know best.

      tlayuda

      Enjoy the Nightlife

      Oaxaca does nightlife right!  Not only do they have regular bars and nightclubs, but they also have salsa dancing floors and lots of live music. So there are choices for everyone on how to enjoy the night.

      Around the zocalo, you can find open-air cafes and restaurants, where you can sit and listen to live bands playing anything from banda, mariachi, jazz, folkloric shows, soft rock, and even opera and orchestra.

      I loved sitting on the different benches listening to all types of music, and watching locals dance some kinds.

      Many nightclubs play English pop, house music, reggaeton, and techno.

      However, you will find that many small bars have live bands playing a mix of soft Spanish and English rock.

      But if you prefer, you can take out your salsa moves and head to La Candela, where you can even get free salsa lessons before the night gets late. In addition, some hostels, like Casa Angel, have salsa dancing lessons.

      Other spots apart from La Candela are, El Sol y La Luna and La Tentacion.

      plaza zocalo oaxaca

      Dia de los Muertos Celebration

      One of Mexico’s biggest holidays is Dia de Los Muertos (Day of the Dead).  It’s a holiday and festival where friends and families gather to welcome back the souls of family members who have passed away.

      Instead of being a mournful festival, families make altars with decorations, and flowers, place food and drinks around them and call it a celebration.

      Families visit the cemetery to put flowers around the graves and light candles. They also decorate with sugar skull faces, colorful flags, and pictures of dead family members.   If you watch the Disney movie Coco, you’ll understand more about this celebration.

      It turns out that Oaxaca is the number one place in all of Mexico to celebrate this holiday.  It has become famous for the festivities that happen, and trying to find a hotel during those days is nearly impossible.

      The celebration here is no joke!  There are huge parties, altars, decorations, large parades, and so much more.  Unlike any other city in Mexico.  They go all out!

      The Day of the Dead festivities occur every year on November 1st and 2nd, but they start as early as October 30th.  It’s the biggest cultural festivity in the country, and many even plan trips to Mexico (mainly to Oaxaca) based on this date.

      Things to Do in Oaxaca: Day Tours

      Hierve el Agua

      Hierve el Agua, meaning boiling water is one of Oaxaca’s most popular and most visited attractions.  You can find it in the mountains; simply put, it’s a set of natural rocks and mineral formations that look like frozen waterfalls.

      The residue falling from the side of the hill are minerals that accumulated over time and made it look like a cascading waterfall.

      At the top, you can go for a swim in the mineral pools that come with stunning views of the countryside. Wear your sneakers for the hike and factor in about 4 hours for your time here.

      Unfortunately, when I was in Oaxaca, Hierve La Agua closed indefinitely for legal disputes, but those were settled (for now), and the place was re-opened for tourists and locals to enjoy.

      There are full day tours that visit Hierve el Agua, Mitla, El Tule, Teotitlan del Valle and a mezcal distillery.  But if you prefer, you can take a tour to just Hierve el Agua.

      Monte Alba Ruins

      As you may have heard, Mexico is rich in history and culture and has many ancient ruins to explore. The most famous ones are Chichen Itza near Cancun and Teotihuacan in Mexico City.

      However, just a few minutes from the city of Oaxaca, you find Monte Alban.

      Monte Alban is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and was one of the earliest cities in Mesoamerica.  They are over 1300 years old.

      There are pyramids, terraces, and canals, and it’s surrounded by nature and a beautiful scenic view of the city.

      The ruins are only 10 kilometers from the city. Therefore, you can go on a guided tour or get there by Uber or Taxi.

      monte alban ruins oaxaca

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        Teotitlan del Valle

        The town Teotitlan del Valle is famous for a craft, the tapete, or handwoven Zapotec rug.  When wandering around town, you can find rug producers that allow you to tour their facility to learn about the process. From hand-dyeing the wools to seeing the weaving process in action by the rug artisans, it’s an interesting activity to do.

        You can get a guided tour for just Teotitlan del  Valle or a full-day tour of nearby areas.

        Visit Mitla

        Mitla is the second most important archeological site in the state of Oaxaca.  Mitla translates to ‘Place of the Dead’ in Nahuatl.  Therefore, it’s a sacred burial ground for the Zapotecs.

        It’s the perfect place to go for a day trip if you have extra time in the city.  Many of the tours that go to the magical town of Mitla, also go to El Tule, Hierve el Agua, a mezcal distillery and Teotitlan del Valle.  You can find it about an hour out from the city.

        El Tule

        One of the oddest sounding things to do in Oaxaca is to go see a tree called El Tule. However, it’s considered one of the top things to do because the tree is impressive!

        This Montezuma cypress tree is over 2,000 years old and holds the world’s record for the biggest trunk in diameter.  It’s 54 meters (164ft)  in circumference.  It’s huge!

        Nearby is the town of Santa Maria del Tule, where you can grab lunch or stroll the streets and people-watch.  The tree is only 9km from Oaxaca City, so it should be a short ride there.

        Other Things Nearby

        This list of things to do in Oaxaca is endless. This is because there are so many more places to explore.  For example, there are several ruins near the city, such as San Jose El Mogote Archeological site, Dainzu Zona Archeologica, and Zona Archeologica Azompa.

        There are viewpoints nearby to hike.  You can also find other towns such as San Bartolo Coyotepec, where you can find black clay pottery, and San Martín Tilcajete, where you find alebrijes.

        Alebrijes are small wood-carved creatures associated with a spirit guide.  They are especially popular in Oaxaca, although you can find them throughout Mexico.

        You can also find the Ex-Hacienda de San Jose nearby, Mazaltepec Waterfall, and the list goes on.

        If you do a Google Maps search, you can find many more spots to explore.  Having a car is convenient if you plan to go outside the city a lot.

        things to do in Oaxaca city

        Where to Stay

        Oaxaca has many charming places to stay at.   You can find hostels, international hotels, boutique hotels, and lovely historic Airbnbs.

        The prices are affordable as most of Mexico is, so you can find some great stays for great prices.

        I stayed at two different hostels.  One was very quiet and the other one very social.  I liked the second one most, Casa Angel.

        Casa Angel Hostel had the most amazing social atmosphere, and I made some incredible friendships there.  A few of us even continued on together for a couple of weeks traveling through Mexico.

        Actually, Oaxaca is special to me because of the friends I made at this hostel which made it super easy to make friends.

        It’s one of the top hostels for solo travelers to stay at in the city.

        However, here are some other great options:

        Hostels:

        • Azul Cielo Hostel: A colorful boutique hostel with great breakfast, salsa dancing classes, and fun activities.
        • Selina Hostel: An established hostel chain with spacious rooms and working spaces, a restaurant, bar, and rooftop terrace.
        • Casa Angel Hostel: A social hostel with salsa classes, fun activities, walking tours, and a rooftop terrace.
        • Hostal Nordes: Mor like a guesthouse with private rooms. No social atmosphere, but it’s cheap, and you get good rest.

        For Hotels:

        • Hotel con Corazon: Near the city center, it has shady terraces, gourmet breakfast, beautiful furniture with locally produces textile, and supports local NGOs that help sponsor scholarships and tutoring throughout the city.
        • Hotel Azul de Oaxaca: A boutique hotel near Santo Domingo Church.
        oaxaca

        How to Get to Oaxaca

        Getting to Oaxaca is the safest and quickest via airplane. If you are visiting from abroad, you can fly to Mexico City first and then take a domestic flight to Oaxaca.

        If you are visiting from the U.S, there are a few international flights directly to Oaxaca.

        Flights from Mexico City will be about $50 but will go up the closer the date is to your visit, and they get expensive.

        You can take a long bus ride from Mexico City to Oaxaca if you prefer.  Supposedly it’s 10 hours, but in reality, those bus rides are much longer.  The road is also very windy, and those who get car sick easily might have trouble with this ride.

        If you don’t book a flight early, riding a bus can save you money.  The cost will be about $40 or more. During my time of visit, there was political unrest, and I heard about groups blocking the roads to the city as protests.

        Unfortunately, Oaxaca sometimes goes through these seasons, so it’s good to be aware of what’s going on beforehand.

        Airport to the City Center

        From the airport, a taxi will cost about $5-7 to get into the city center.  You can also get shared shuttle services to save money, and they drop you off at your hotel in the city center.  You get the ticket at the booth before exiting the airport.

        From Puerto Escondido

        If you’re coming from Puerto Escondido, the ADO bus takes about 11 hours and is about 600 pesos.  It is one of the windiest rides I’ve been on in my life!  If you easily get motion sickness, I don’t suggest this ride.

        There is a tiny airport in Puerto Escondido where you can fly to Oaxaca or other destinations in Mexico. However, it won’t be the cheapest option.

        The buses are budget-friendly, and you can go overnight to save yourself a hotel stay.  However, good sleep is not guaranteed due to the windy roads. Nevertheless, the buses are comfortable, air-conditioned, and have wifi.

        Unfortunately, I took the smaller vans (I don’t recommend these) that go to Puerto Escondido, and it was one of my worst experiences.  I got zero sleep.  Thankfully I don’t get motion sickness, but I can’t imagine if I did.  Trust me when I say the road is windy!

        things to do in Oaxaca city

        How to Get Around

        The best way to get around the city is by foot.  I recommend staying in the city center or nearby.  I wouldn’t bother renting a car because it will be hard to find parking unless you stay outside the city center.

        Most places will be within walking distance in the center, and you’ll rarely take over 25 minutes to get somewhere.  But, taking a taxi or Uber is an excellent option if you don’t want to walk around.  Negotiate a price before hopping onto a cab because they are not metered.

        Lastly, you can ride the bus, as a cheaper mode of transportation. The city buses are 7 pesos and display their route on the window.  Always ask the driver or the locals waiting for the bus about your destination before getting on.

        things to do in Oaxaca city

        When to Visit

        Oaxaca has a humid subtropical climate with a cool and dry season and a hot and wet season.  The dry season is from November to March, and it experiences cooler temperatures due to the higher altitude of the city.

        From May through October, it’s the rainy season, with the hottest months being from March through May.

        things to do in Oaxaca city

        It is Safe?

        Before I share what happened to my friends here, I’d like to point out that I traveled solo as a female throughout Mexico for nearly seven months and have visited several times alone. Nothing ever happened to me, nor did I fear for my life.

        However, I’m not going to lie and say I never felt like certain places were sketchy or avoided certain spots because of dangers I heard about.

        Unfortunately, Mexico does face some level of crime due to poverty and other times due to drug wars and cartels.  For example, driving at night in certain states is not a wise idea because it’s when drug cartels operate.

        Then, some cities have sketchy or good neighborhoods where tourists and locals alike have been mugged.

        During my backpacking days in Mexico, I made a few friends who got mugged. However, most of the stories I heard were usually after a night of going out.

        things to do in Oaxaca city
        Safety Continued…

        For example, three friends I made at the hostel left a bar about 10 minutes walking distance, and a guy came up to them around a quiet street and pulled out a knife on them.  They had to give everything up.  I had been there too, so it’s scary to hear about.

        My point here is that places become more dangerous at night after going to the bars.  So, keep an eye out because thieves know where the tourists hang out. However, I genuinely believe this can happen in many cities around the world, not just cities in Mexico.

        I won’t deny that crime might be a little higher here than in some countries, but this shouldn’t deter you from visiting the country.  As I said, I traveled solo for many months and have only good things to say about all the places I went.

        I never walked around Mexico feeling fear.  Most places felt fine and the locals are extremely helpful and kind.

        I say that danger is subjective.  You could be at the wrong place at the wrong time, or you can participate in things that put you in danger. So it’s crucial always to be aware and accompanied if you go out late.

        things to do in Oaxaca city

        Overall Toughts About Oaxaca

        I loved this city so much!  It’s authentic and full of culture.  There is a lot to do and is a great place for backpackers to visit.  It’s cheap, beautiful, and has an awesome vibe.  There are a lot of day trips to do nearby so it’s not easy to get bored here.  Along with Guanajuato, and Chiapas, Oaxaca is one of my favorite states in Mexico.

        If you want to know what the real Mexico is, this is a great place to visit.  Oaxaca is worth it!

        Other Places to Visit in Mexico

        Travel Booking Resources

        Book Your Flight:

        To find cheap flights, check Skyscanner and Google Flights. These search engines check airlines to find you the best deals.  The more flexibility you have, the better flight deals available.

        Book Your Accommodation:

        Booking.com is my favorite booking site for hotels but it also shows great deals on hostels and apartments. Plus, when you reach Genius Level, you get special discounts, included breakfasts, and upgrades on some hotel rooms. Hostelworld is specifically for budget travelers who enjoy hostels.  This is the best place for finding great options.

        Don’t Forget Travel Insurance and Visa Applications:

        Travel insurance will protect you against theft, injury, illness, and cancellations. Sometimes unexpected things happen during a trip and protections will keep you covered.  Two great options are: Safety Wing and World Nomads. Also, iVisa can help you get a visa if you need one. 

        Book Tours:

        Sometimes the best way to see a place is through tours.  I recommend checking out Get Your Guide for some fun and unique adventures wherever you go. 

        Check out my other travel resources to help you book your trip!

        Disclaimer: Some of the links on this page are affiliate links. This means that if you click on a link and purchase a product, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you. Please note I only recommend products and brands that I personally use or have used and believe in. 

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        29 Awesome Things to Do in Oaxaca

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