Oaxaca: Your Ultimate Guide to Culture, Food, Accommodation, and Activities

Why Oaxaca City Should Be on Your List

No trip to Mexico is complete without a visit to Oaxaca City (pronounced Wahaca). This vibrant destination is everything you’ve seen in photos and more—cobbled streets lined with colorful colonial buildings, an incredible food scene, and a lively energy that’s impossible to resist. Surrounded by breathtaking mountains, Oaxaca is rich in history, culture, and gastronomy, making it a must-visit for travelers who want an authentic and affordable experience. Whether you’re here for a short getaway or making the most of your annual leave, Oaxaca offers an efficient and unforgettable itinerary filled with adventure, delicious food, and world-class mezcal.

Oaxaca City

On to Oaxaca City (pronounced Wahaca) and a whole new adventure. No trip to Mexico is complete without a visit to Oaxaca. This unique place looks exactly like the photos—colorful colonial streets, stunning old buildings, and a lively atmosphere, all surrounded by beautiful mountains. The food is unforgettable, the mezcal flows freely, and the energy of the city is infectious.

Ways to Get There

Oaxaca is about a 6.5-hour journey from Mexico City. If you’re short on time, you can take a quick domestic flight. But if you’re looking to save money, the bus is a great option. We took the bus, and the ride through the mountains was stunning. The buses are spacious and comfortable, and the journey was on time. You can book in advance on BusBud to ensure you get a seat. Finally if you want a bit more freedom you can rent a car and drive down. All the roads are very good, it is just about dealing with the Mexico City traffic!

Where to Stay in Oaxaca

Oaxaca is a very walkable city, so staying anywhere in the Centro Histórico will put you close to the main attractions, markets, and restaurants. Here are some excellent accommodation options:

Budget: Hostel Azul Cielo – A friendly, affordable hostel with a great atmosphere and free breakfast.
Mid-range: Casa Antonieta – A stylish boutique hotel with a peaceful courtyard.
Luxury: Quinta Real Oaxaca – A former convent turned stunning hotel with old-world charm.

Where to Eat & Drink in Oaxaca

Oaxaca is a food lover’s paradise, and the best way to experience it is by hopping from one eatery to another. Avoid the overpriced restaurants on the main square and instead explore the side streets for the best local flavors.

Restaurants & Cafés

Boulenc – A trendy spot for breakfast and pastries, always bustling but worth the wait.
Pan con Madre – Excellent bakery slightly outside the center, perfect for fresh bread and coffee.
Crudo – A hidden gem with an incredible Mexican-Japanese fusion tasting menu (reservations required).
Criollo – A beautifully designed spot offering a contemporary take on Oaxacan cuisine. Breakfast is great, but dinner is the main event.
Tacos del Carmen – For an authentic street food experience, try the chile relleno taco—one of the best bites in Oaxaca!

Bars & Mezcalerías

Vino & Vinyl – A laid-back wine bar with great music and a cozy atmosphere.
Tastavins – Enjoy a glass of wine with complimentary tapas in this charming little spot.
Terraza Los Amantes – A rooftop bar with stunning views of the city and surrounding mountains.
Sabina Sabe – The best cocktail bar in town, offering expertly crafted drinks. Ask the bartender for recommendations!
Tlayudas El Negro – A fantastic place to try Oaxaca’s signature tlayudas, often with live music.
Mezcaloteca – A curated tasting experience for those serious about mezcal (appointment required).

Top Things to Do in Oaxaca City

1. Visit Hierve el Agua

A natural infinity pool with a petrified waterfall, Hierve el Agua is a must-see. You can reach it by public transport via Mitla, rent a car for a more flexible trip (with optional mezcal stops), or join a guided tour. The hiking trails here offer panoramic views before you cool off in the mineral-rich pools.

2. Take a Cooking Class

Oaxaca is the food capital of Mexico, and a cooking class is one of the best ways to immerse yourself in the local cuisine. Most classes include a market tour where you’ll buy ingredients before preparing traditional dishes like mole and tortillas.

3. Tour a Mezcal Distillery

Oaxaca is the heart of mezcal production, and visiting a palenque (distillery) lets you see the agave harvesting and distillation process up close. Some tours even let you plant your own agave. If you can’t make it out of the city, visit a mezcalería in town for a tasting.

4. Explore the Oaxaca Botanical Garden

Located next to the Santo Domingo Church, this garden showcases Oaxaca’s diverse plant life, including native cacti and heirloom corn varieties. Guided tours are the only way to visit, so book in advance.

5. Join a Walking Tour

Walking through Oaxaca’s streets is the best way to experience its charm. A guided tour can give you insights into the city’s history, markets, and street art scene.

6. Discover Oaxaca’s Markets

Oaxaca’s markets are an explosion of color, flavor, and energy. Don’t miss:

Mercado 20 de Noviembre – Try the smoky meats in the Pasillo del Humo (Meat Alley).
Benito Juárez Market – Great for souvenirs, fresh produce, and local cheese.
Abastos Market – A massive market with everything from handicrafts to mole paste.

7. Visit Monte Albán

A short 25-minute drive from Oaxaca City, Monte Albán is a UNESCO-listed archaeological site that was once the capital of the Zapotec civilization. The views of the valley alone make it worth the trip!

8. Experience Oaxaca’s Nightlife

After dinner, head to Txalaparta (La Tentación) for a lively party scene with multiple music genres spread across different floors. Whether you want to dance or just soak in the vibrant atmosphere, it’s the place to go.

Final Tips for an Efficient and Affordable Oaxaca Trip

Budget Wisely: Food and drinks are affordable compared to other destinations, but activities like mezcal tours and cooking classes can add up. Prioritize what interests you most.
Plan Around Public Holidays: Oaxaca has numerous festivals throughout the year, which can be amazing but also mean higher prices and busier crowds.
Use Public Transport: If you’re on a budget, colectivos (shared taxis) and buses are great alternatives to renting a car.
Book in Advance: Popular restaurants, bars, and activities fill up quickly—reservations are your best friend!

Oaxaca is the perfect mix of culture, adventure, and relaxation, making it an ideal getaway even if you’re short on time. With this guide, you can make the most of your visit without breaking the bank!