Read This BEFORE Traveling to Oaxaca (Tips From a Local)
Planning to visit Oaxaca City, Mexico?
Smart choice! I’ve had some of my best Mexico experiences while traveling to Oaxaca, and I know you will too.
You’ve landed on the right blog for Oaxaca travel info, and with the right blogger, as I live in Oaxaca part time.
It is my favorite state in Mexico, and I have a whole website dedicated to it called Travel To Oaxaca.
Living in Oaxaca, I split my time between Oaxaca City, and the beaches of Oaxaca Mexico, from Puerto Escondido to Huatulco to Mazunte.
I’ve also attended several two Día de Muertos celebrations in Oaxaca City.
In this article, you’ll learn everything you need to know about visiting Oaxaca City, and the state of Oaxaca.
If this will be your first Oaxaca trip, you’re going to feel like a Mexico travel pro in no time — so let’s get to it!
Where is Oaxaca Mexico located?
Oaxaca state is located in Southern Mexico. It borders several states, with Chiapas state to the east, and Puebla state to the north.
📍 Oaxaca Map
The best beaches in Oaxaca, Mex., including Puerto Escondido, Hautulco, Zipolite, Mazunte, Chacahua and San Agustinillo are located about 165-200 miles (260-320 km) south of the city on the Pacific Coast.
💁♀️ Oh, and In case you were wondering, the correct Oaxaca pronunciation is waa-HA-kah.
Where is Oaxaca City located?
Oaxaca City is in the center of the state.
It is the Oaxaca state capital, as well as the cultural, historic, artistic and agricultural hub of Oaxaca.
You may hear Oaxaca City referred to by a few names. Officially, it’s Oaxaca de Juarez, though most people will just say “Oaxaca.”
Oaxaca de Juarez is the capital city of Oaxaca state.
As Oaxaca is both the name of the city and the state, you’ll want to clarify when someone says “Oaxaca,” to find out if they mean the city or the state.
Usually, it’s Oaxaca City, but not always.
Where to Stay in Oaxaca City
Best Oaxaca City Hotels
Need recommendations and info about the best Oaxaca hotels?
Head to 17 Best Places to Stay in Oaxaca City for a complete list of the best hotels in Oaxaca Mexico. There are also a few places listed below.
Best Neighborhoods in Oaxaca City
When traveling to Oaxaca City, you’ll want to stay in or around the Zocalo or Centro Historico.
This is the historic city center, and the main area of the city, but there’s also the nearby neighborhoods of Jalatlaco or Xochimilco.
These three Oaxaca City best neighborhoods are right next to one another so it’s easy to get around.
Oaxaca City itself is walkable, and you probably don’t need a Oaxaca car rental if you’re just staying in Oaxaca City.
While there’s no Uber in Oaxaca, there is limited public transportation, and there’s also cabs for when you need to go longer distances.
Best Hotels in Oaxaca City, Mexico
- Quinta Real Oaxaca ($$$$) An authentic Mexican hacienda that’s been turned into one of the best luxury hotels in Oaxaca City
- Pug Seal Oaxaca ($$$$) Best boutique hotel in Oaxaca, with stylish decor and impeccable service
- Casa de las Bugambilias B&B ($$$) The best Oaxaca best and breakfast, run by a local family
- Hotel Casona Oaxaca ($$) One of the best cheap hotels in Oaxaca, with harming ambiance and great value for the cost
- Selina Hostel ($) Known as the best hostel in Oaxaca City, but Yabanhi Hotstel Oaxaca is also a contender for this title of best Oaxaca hostel
As with most downtown areas, Oaxaca’s Centro Historico neighborhood is equipped to host visitors — with accommodations for every budget.
It has the best boutique hotels in Oaxaca, best cheap hotels and best hostels.
If you prefer a quieter neighborhood, away from the main tourist center, check out these two Oaxaca neighborhoods, Jalatlaco and Xochimilco.
The Best Neighborhoods in Oaxaca City
Oaxaca Centro Historico (Downtown)
Downtown Oaxaca City isn’t very big — think 40 square blocks.
For first time visitors, you’ll find staying in Centro (Downtown), as close to the Zocalo (main square) as possible, very convenient.
This area gives you the convenience of walkability. There’s no Oaxaca Uber service, though you can always hail a cab.
The city has public buses, though Oaxaca public transportation isn’t great overall.
🚙 Need a rental car in Oaxaca City? I recommend and use Discover Cars for all my Mexico car rentals.
Jalatlaco Oaxaca City
The hippest neighborhood in Oaxaca City! Colorful Jalatlaco (pronounced ha-lat-lack-oh) is just outside of Centro.
It is safe, with amazing restaurants and cafes, unique street art, colonial buildings and some of the best Oaxaca hotels — like City Centro Hotel Oaxaca and Hotel Cazomalli Oaxaca.
Xochimilco Oaxaca City
Xochimilco (pronounced so-chee-mill-co) is the oldest and most historic Oaxaca City neighborhood, and located just north of Centro Historico.
One of the coolest things in this barrio (neighborhood) is an 18th Century aqueduct that runs along Callejon Rufino Tamayo street.
You’ll still get the old school colonial city feel and look in the Xochimilco neighborhood, but you’ll be further away from the crowds.
Being slightly on the outskirts of Centro Historico means great value at Oaxaca boutique hotels — like El Callejón Hotel and Casa de Arte.
The Best Things to Do in Oaxaca City, Mexico
1. Monte Alban Oaxaca
Located about 30 minutes outside of the Oaxaca City Center, the Monte Alban is the most-visited of all archeological sites and ancient ruins in Oaxaca Mexico.
You can visit on your own, but booking these Monte Alban tours mean having a guide explain all the ways this site is so important — and there are many.
If you’re visiting on your own, arrive early to beat the crowds. Monte Albán opens at 8am, and arriving when they open also means avoiding the blazing afternoon sun.
When visiting, remember to wear a hat, eco-friendly sunscreen, sunglasses and comfortable shoes.
Don’t forget your Water-To-Go Bottle, which filters your water so you don’t get sick in Mexico, and keeps you hydrated.
🏛️ Oaxaca UNESCO World Heritage Sites
There are not one, but three UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Oaxaca!
As some of the most popular Oaxaca tours and best things to do in Oaxaca City, all three belong on your What to Do in Oaxaca list.
- Historic Downtown Oaxaca City
- Monte Alban Ruins
- Prehistoric Caves of Yagul and town of Mitla, one of the best Oaxaca pueblos magicos.
2. Centro Historico Oaxaca City
While it may just look like a beautiful colonial city now, Oaxaca City and Centro de Oaxaca (Downtown Oaxaca), dates back to 1529.
It was originally occupied by Oaxaca’s native Zapotec people.
Today, it is a mix of old and new — and many of the best Oaxaca tours in the city take place right here.
Out of the hundreds of sites listed on UNESCO’s World Heritage Site list, very few entire cities have made the cut, but Oaxaca City does.
You can get to know it on the Oaxaca Free Walking Tour — and as a side note that thought this is a free tour, tips are customary.
It is among the best Oaxaca tours, and a great way to explore the city with a local guide.
Top 10 Best things to do in Oaxaca Centro Historico
1. Zocalo Oaxaca, Plaza de la Constitucion & Oaxaca Catedral: The Zocalo in Oaxaca is the main “Town Square,” where you’ll find historic Constitution Plaza, and the Oaxaca Cathedral.
2. Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzman: Saint Domingo’s Temple is a 16th century Spanish Baroque-style church, and one of the best places to visit in Oaxaca.
3. Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca: Oaxaca Culture Museum, located inside the Templo de Santo Domingo.
4. Jardin Etnobotanico de Oaxaca: Oaxaca Botanical Garden, located at the Templo de Santo Domingo complex and one of the top Oaxaca sites. Note: You must visit with a tour.
5. Mercado de Artesanias de Oaxaca: Oaxacan Artisan Market, traditional Oaxacan market (mercado) with textiles, clothing, handcrafted art and more. This is one of the best markets in Oaxaca.
6. Rufino Tamayo Museum: Museum with pre-Hispanic artifacts. Its namesake Rufino Tamayo, is one of the most famous people from Oaxaca.
7. Mercado 20 de Noviembre: November 20th Market, traditional market with plenty of Oaxaca Mexican food to sample, shops and more.
8. Calle de Macedonia Alcala: Macedonia Alcala Street, a lively, pedestrian-only street with galleries, shops, cafes, some of the best mezcalerias in Oaxaca City (mezcal bars), and more.
9. Mercado Benito Juárez: Benito Juarez Market, traditional Mexican/Oaxacan market with food, shops and more.
10. Museo Textil de Oaxaca: Oaxaca Textile Museum, showcasing the state’s famous textiles. This is one of the best museums in Oaxaca City.
3. Mitla Pueblo Magico
After Monte Alban, the second most important archeological site in Oaxaca is Mitla pueblo magico (magic town).
It is one of the six Oaxaca pueblos magicos, and the closest one to Oaxaca City.
Mitla is a Oaxaca Mexico UNESCO World Heritage site, along with Prehistoric Caves of Yagul.
As Mitla is easy to access, and the caves are not, most tours and visitors will only go to Mitla, Oaxaca.
🗿 What is Milta Ruins?
Rather than a group of pyramids, like many Mexico ruins and archeological sites, Mitla is a collection of buildings with elaborate and intricate carved stone and geometric designs.
It is one of the most beautiful and fascinating places to visit in Oaxaca Mexico.
Mitla is one of the holiest sites for the native Zapotec people and Mixtec people, used in centuries past as a holy burial site.
In fact, the word mitla comes from the Aztec word mictlán, which means “underworld” or “place of the dead.”
4. Hierve el Agua Oaxaca
Located about 45 miles (72 km) from Oaxaca City, is perhaps Oaxaca’s most famous natural wonder — Hierve el Agua. Its name means “boiling water.”
While the natural mineral pools are the most photographed places here, you should also check out the amazing “cascadas” (waterfalls).
The word cascadas is in quotes here for a reason.
There are two cliff faces at Hierve el Agua that look like waterfalls because they are covered in calcified mineral deposits — however, they are not waterfalls.
They do look like waterfalls with flowing and falling water, which is why many call this site the Hierve el Agua waterfalls.
You can see the “waterfalls” from afar at the hot springs and pools, or you can hike down for a closer look.
best HIERVE EL AGUA TOURS in Oaxaca
The easiest way to experience Hierve el Agua? On a tour, of course!
Check out the great and varied tours of Hierve el Agua listed below, ranging from half- and full-day trips to one of the best Oaxaca places to visit.
5. Oaxaca El Tule Tree
Located a few miles from Oaxaca City in the pueblo (small town) of Santa Maria del Tule, Oaxaca Mexico, this makes for a great and quick day trips from Oaxaca.
El Arbol del Tule, or simply El Tule (The Tree of Enlightenment) is a giant Montezuma cypress tree on the grounds of a the gorgeous Templo Santa María de la Asunción church.
At 46-feet around (14 m), it holds the world’s record for biggest trunk diameter on Earth.
For reference, it takes at least 30 people with clasped hands to wrap around the El Tule tree.
A must see Oaxaca vacation site, Scientists date this tree at about 2,000-years-old.
However, Oaxaca’s native Zapotec people say it was planted about 1,400 years ago by Ehécatl, the god of the wind.
7. Oaxaca Botanical Garden
To see more of Oaxaca’s famous plants, head to the Jardin Etnobotanico de Oaxaca (Oaxaca Botanical Gardens).
It is located in downtown, adjacent to the Templo de Santo Domingo.
This 2.5-acre (1 hectare) garden showcases Oaxaca’s immense biodiversity, with hundreds of local plant and cactus species.
🌵 Oaxaca Travel Tips: how to Visit the Botanical Garden
Due to the fragility of the garden’s ecosystem, you can only enter with a guided tour.
English tours take place several times per week, for $100 pesos ($5 USD) per person, and last two hours.
Though inexpensive, this is one of the best tours in Oaxaca City.
Oaxaca Food & Drink Guide
In 2010, UNESCO declared Mexican food as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Mankind. 🤔 Just what does that mean!?
In plain English, the United Nations declared traditional Mexican food, including Oaxaca food, as one of mankind’s cultural treasures.
This honor is shared with only one other country, France, also popular for foodie travel.
High atop the list of best Mexico foodie destinations, sits Oaxaca. It is actually known as the Foodie Capital of Mexico.
So just what does one eat in this food paradise?
For starters, there’s these 30 Best Oaxaca Foods and Drinks You Need to Try, including the 7 moles of Oaxaca, tlayudas, memelas, garnachas, chapulines, and more.
There’s also amazing Oaxaca street food and all the incredible, authentic cheap eats in Oaxaca mercados (markets).
You’ll also want to imbibe the amazing Mexico drinks in Oaxaca, like mezcal, tejate, atole and the famous aguas casildas in Benito Juarez Market.
Traditional Oaxacan cuisine, like most Mexican food, is regional.
It is unlike other foods in Mexico because Oaxaca has numerous indigenous groups that all add their unique flavors and styles.
Besides that, Oaxaca has an incredible variety of produce year-round because of its many microclimates and growing seasons.
From mercados (like these best Oaxaca markets) to street food stands, and traditional Oaxacan family-style restaurants to fine dining — Oaxaca has it all when it comes to amazing food.
But first, let’s explore all the unique foods and beverages you’ll want to try while traveling to Oaxaca. These are listed below.
Following the foods list, there’s a list of the best Oaxaca restaurants, like Criollo, Origen, Casa Oaxaca and Alfonsina Oaxaca.
👩🍳 Check out these best Oaxaca food tours to discover even more about this regional Mexican cuisine.
Must Try Oaxaca Foods & Drinks
Below are just some of the most popular Oaxacan cuisine staples that you must try when traveling to Oaxaca City Mexico.
For a complete guide, head to this article, 30 Best Oaxaca Foods and Drinks You Need to Try.
✔️ Memelas (mem-mel-las)
Often eaten as a snack, memelas are kind of open-face tacos.
They are cooked on a comal (circular, flat cooking surface) and served on a thick corn tortilla and topped with beans, melted quesillo (Oaxaca cheese) and sometimes meat.
✔️ Chapulines (chap-pull-lean-es)
Chapulines are Mexico’s infamous grasshoppers. You’ll find vendors selling them on the streets and in the mercados (markets in Oaxaca City).
Chapulines are very common in Oaxaca, and eaten like popcorn.
✔️ Tlayudas (tuh-lie-you-das)
Tlayudas are sometimes called a Mexican pizza, and they do look like a pizza — but that’s the only similarity.
Tlayudas are assembled on large tortillas, and topped with beans, lettuce, tomatoes, onion and queso Oaxaca cheese.
They are cooked on a comal or over carbon (charcoal), which imparts a smoky flavor.
✔️ Tamales oaxaqueños
Tamales are an ancient pre-hispanic food made of masa (corn dough), then steamed in a corn husk or banana leaf.
Tamales are served throughout Mexico, though tamales oaxaqueños (Oaxacan tamales) are cooked in a banana leaf.
They’re sometimes called tamales hojas, meaning “leaf tamales,” and considered among the country’s tastiest.
✔️ Mole (mole-lay)
Mole is both a marinade and a sauce. There are seven types of mole, all with different combinations of spices, fruits, nuts and more.
The most popular type of Oaxaca mole negro (black mole), which gets its color from chocolate and charred chili peppers.
✔️ Tejate (tay-ha-tay): One of the Best Oaxacan Drinks
Tejate is a pre-hispanic chocolate and corn drink, which may sound weird, but this ancient drink has stood the test of time.
In fact, it is known as the bebida de los dioses, or “drink of the gods.”
Tejate is served cold, so it’s super refreshing on a hot Oaxaca City day. It tastes like a chocolate almond milk, but much richer and more complex.
✔️ Aguas Casilda
For a uniquely Oaxacan culinary experience, you must try an aguas casilda.
Since you’re probably wondering What is aguas casilda? — Let me explain.
Fruit flavored-waters called aguas frescas are a Mexican drink favorite that you can enjoy all over the country.
In Oaxaca, there’s a famous agua fresca stand which is a standout among locals and visitors alike.
The famed Casilda Aguas Regionales stand in Mercado de Benito Juarez Market, one of the best markets in Oaxaca City, dates back to 1890.
Started by the late Casilda Flores Morales, it quickly grew in popularity.
There are several flavors of aguas frescas at Casilda Aguas Oaxaca, but make sure to try the chilacayota.
This is a melon-type fruit from Oaxaca Mexico that has a cinnamon taste.
Best Oaxaca Cooking Classes
Want to dive even deeper and learn how to cook some Oaxacan meals?
These Oaxaca cooking classes give you a new perspective on Oaxacan food and drinks.
You can also go to the source, and visit a local Zapotec community market for a traditional lunch.
Best Restaurants in Oaxaca City Mexico
It’s hard to eat a bad meal in Oaxaca City!
However, there are standouts like Casa Oaxaca Restaurant (located at Casa Oaxaca Hotel), Lechoncito de Oro, which has the best tacos in Oaxaca (IMO), and Itanoni, one of my favorite places to eat in Oaxaca.
Below, you’ll find a more complete list of the best restaurants in Oaxaca City, and an overview of the best Oaxaca City mercados (markets).
The mercados offer a fun, authentic Oaxaca Mexico experience. In each one, there are plenty of street food stalls to eat all of the famous Oaxaca foods.
One particular food stall, Memelas de Doña Vale in Mercado Central de Abastos, was even featured in an episode of Netflix’s Street Food: Latin America show.
Best Bars & Restaurants in Oaxaca Map
Here are 33 places in Oaxaca to get your fix of mole, Oaxaca mezcal and more.
The map includes all the best Oaxaca City restaurants, as well as the best street food in Oaxaca, the best mercados (markets), fine dining options and all the top mezcalerías (mezcal bars).
Oaxaca RESTAURANTS & Casual Eateries
1. Itanoni: Order tetelas, de ese, tamales, memelas and wash it all down with tascalate or agua fresca (fruit water).
2. Lechoncito de Oro: A must try Oaxaca taqueria! This late-night street taco stand only serves chicharron (fried pork skin) and pierna (pork leg), so try one of each.
3. Tlayudas Libres: Order a tlayuda and top it with cecina, tasajo or chorizo, if you eat meat. If not, order yours sencillo, or plain.
4. Las Quince Letras: Owned and run by Oaxaca culinary legend, Celia Florián. Order the trilogía de moles (trilogy of moles) to sample three types of mole in one meal.
5. La Olla: The menu changes seasonally, so try the menu del dia (menu of the day).
6. Boulenc: Order shakshuka for breakfast, a brick-oven pizza for lunch, and a pastry at what’s possibly the best bakery in Oaxaca.
Oaxaca fine DINING for foodies
✔️ Casa Oaxaca
Alejandro Ruiz’s is one of the most famous Mexican chefs, and this is his famed Oaxacan eatery.
Order a bottle of Mexican wine, the crispy duck tacos, any of their moles, and do not skip dessert.
🍷 Oaxaca Travel Tips: Make a reservation for a rooftop table at sunset. From here, you’ll have gorgeous views of Downtown Oaxaca City.
✔️ El Destilado
Splurge and do the 12-course chef’s tasting menu with drink pairing, for an amazing Oaxaca meal.
✔️ Criollo
The seven-course tasting menu at Criollo Oaxaca changes daily, but you can expect an elevated spin on classic Oaxacan foods.
It is owned and run by Chef Enrique Olvera of Pujol, one of the best restaurants in Mexico City, and Chef Luis Arellano.
Oaxaca City Markets (Mercados)
✔️ Mercado Benito Juarez
Located in downton, this is a traditional Oaxacan Mexican mercado (market).
Here, you’ll find vendors selling a mix of fresh produce and Oaxacan cheeses, mezcal, prepared foods, clothing, locally-made artisanal items (some that come directly from the art towns in Oaxaca), and more.
✔️ Central de Abastos
The largest market in Oaxacao, and most tourists visit for one reason only: the memlas.
Las Memelas Doña Vale was featured in the Oaxaca episode of Netflix’s Street Food: Latin America, and has become a local celeb in the market.
If you go, make sure you order the memelas with morita salsa.
✔️ Mercado 20 de Noviembre
More of a food hall than traditional mercado, meaning this is a great place to sample many different and authentic cheap eats.
👀 Looking for unusual things to do in Oaxaca?
Venture off the beaten path to the Pasillo de Humo (Smoke Alley) in Mercado 20 de Noviembre for some cecina, tasajo and carne asada in Oaxaca.
Best Mezcal in Oaxaca City
What is mezcal?
Mezcal is a distilled spirit that can be made from more than 30 varieties of the maguey (agave) plant.
If mezcal sounds like tequila to you — it kind of is.
Much like how champagne is essentially a sparkling wine from the city of Champagne, France, tequila is a kind of mezcal from the city of Tequila, Mexico (and a few other nearby places).
If Tequila, Mexico, is the home of tequila, then Oaxaca is the home of mezcal.
Para todo mal, mezcal. Para todo bien, también. (Meaning, For everything good, mezcal. For everything bad, mezcal also.)
well-known Mexico Quote
If you love this Mexican spirit, you must take one of these best Oaxaca mezcal tours when you visit Oaxaca City.
If you don’t want to do a full tour, head to these 15 Best Oaxaca Mezcalerias (mezcal bars).
Best Oaxaca Mezcal Bars (Mezcalerias)
For a more casual, locals vibe head to In Sitú, La Mezcalerita and Los Amantes Mezcaleria.
These places will have some cocktails, but they are more about sipping on a straight mezcal.
🤕 Planning to drink a lot of mezcal? Don’t forget these anti-hangover meds.
If you’re looking for places to enjoy some mezcal mixology, head to Los Danzantes and Sabina Sabe.
Two of the best Oaxaca mezcal bars, both places are famous for their mezcal cocktails.
At Sabina Sabe try the Guayabo Verde, and at Los Danzantes Oaxaca, the Danzantes 43 reigns supreme.
Note: Their menus change often, so these may or may not be available.
Best Oaxaca Mezcal Tours
✔️ The Mezcal Journey
Join Alvin, a Oaxaca local to learn about mezcal in Santiago Matatlan, Oaxaca, considered the “Mexican mezcal capital,” and other top mezcal towns in Oaxaca.
Enjoy a tour of the picturesque Oaxaca agave fields and head to a distillery to see the whole process, step by step, before drinking some mezcal.
✔️ Mole Tasting & Pre-Hispanic Mezcal
Tour host, Daniel, is a master mezcalier and mezcal sommelier.
He will take you through a sensory journey to see, smell, touch, and finally, have a Oaxaca mezcal tasting paired with the moles of Oaxaca Mexico.
✔️ Mezcaloteca Oaxaca
Mezcaloteca is part mezcal school and part tasting room. It is located in downtown Oaxaca Mexico, in the heart of all the action.
After your experience here, you’ll have a great understanding of mezcal, and can take your knowledge to all other mezcalerias in Oaxaca City you visit.
🥃 Note: Reservations are required for tastings. If the bar isn’t crowded, walk-ins are welcome to ask for a tasting, but it’s best to make a reservation.
What’s the best time to visit Oaxaca?
The best time to travel to Oaxaca Mexico is during the dry season, October to May.
However, the temperate weather in Oaxaca City means it can be a year-round destination.
🌡️ OAXACA weather Temperatures
While it will rain during the Oaxaca rainy season from June-September, you’ll also get lower prices, as this is the off-season.
If you want to avoid the crowds, the Oaxaca City busy season runs from about late-October for Day of the Dead, through March.
Many also visit Oaxaca City for the Guelaguetza, Oaxaca’s second biggest annual festival, held in July.
Guelaguetza Festival Oaxaca
The Guelaguetza (pronounced geh-la-get-zah) is among the most famous and best festivals in Oaxaca City, Mexico.
In fact, it has been called the largest folkloric festival on the Americas continent.
This annual event takes place on two Mondays in mid-July. Its dates vary from year to year, but the festival will be held the two Mondays following July 16.
The Guelaguetza festival brings together people from the eight regions of Oaxaca to share their food, textiles and culture through dances, presentations and gift exchanges.
In fact, Guelaguetza comes from the Zapotec word, guendalezaa, meaning “an offering” or “a gift.”
Though overshadowed by the fame of Oaxaca Dia de los Muertos (one of the best Day of the Dead celebrations in Mexico), the Guelaguetza is one of the most exciting and beautiful Oaxaca festivals in Mexico.
Day of the Dead Oaxaca City
Dia de los Muertos, which is Day of the Dead in Mexico, is one of the biggest festivals in Oaxaca, and all of Mexico.
I have been a few times, and can’t recommend it enough.
For a complete guide to the festival, as well as the history and symbolism of Dia de Muertos, check out Day of the Dead in Oaxaca: Everything You Need to Know.
When is Day of the Dead?
The holiday takes place November 1st and November 2nd.
Festivities officially begin at midnight on November 1st, so you might hear some say it starts October 31st.
Oaxaca City begins prepping for the holiday about 7-10 days before the actual festival. If you’re planing to attend, try to arrive by October 28th.
The festival takes over the whole town, and it’s one of the best places to attend Day of the Dead in Mexico.
What is Day of the Dead?
Each year, for a few days in late-Oct. and early-Nov., many Mexican people believe the veil to the spirit world is lifted and our departed family members return Earthside to visit us.
While in many cultures, this would be a somber event, in Mexico, it’s a giant party, and the biggest festival in Oaxaca.
Different Mexican states, with
their ties to different indigenous peoples, will celebrate it differently.
Oaxaca, and its native Zapotec peoples, are known as having the country’s most festive, colorful, and fun celebration.
Traveling to Oaxaca: Beyond Oaxaca City
Best Beaches in Oaxaca
The two most visited places in Oaxaca are Oaxaca City, and the best beaches in Oaxaca, all located on the Oaxacan Coast.
These include Puerto Escondido, Zipolite, Huatulco, San Agustinillo, Mazunte (where I did a 10-day silent meditation retreat), Puerto Angel and Lagunas de Chacahua National Park, among a few others.
Oaxaca, while not a huge state, is quite spread out. If you have four or less days, stick to one area; either Oaxaca City or the beaches.
For travelers with five or more available days, you can divide your time up between Oaxaca City and the Oaxaca coast.
🏝️ Traveling from Oaxaca City to the beaches? Check out these guides — Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca to Huatulco, and Oaxaca to Mazunte.
To drive, take the Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido Highway. This newly-built roadway connects Oaxaca City to the Coast of Oaxaca in just a few hours.
Inter-state travel from the city tot he beach can take 3-4 hours by rental car, colectivo (small, shared van), and ADO bus.
There is a short flight from Oaxaca City to Puerto Escondido and a flight from Oaxaca City to Huatulco, though it’s the most expensive option.
Oaxaca Pueblos Mancomunados
For a unique, off the beaten path Oaxaca experience, head into the Sierra Norte mountains on a trekking adventure to the Pueblos Mancomunados.
These eight self-governing indigenous Zapotec villages, located only a few hours from Oaxaca City, provide immersive Mexico ecotourism experiences.
San Jose del Pacifico (Oaxaca Mushroom Town)
As an off the beaten path Oaxaca destination, San Jose del Pacifico Oaxaca has been gaining in popularity in recent years.
This town is located between Oaxaca City and the Oaxacan beaches, so many stop in this pueblo (small town) to enjoy nature and magic mushrooms.
You can visit on your own by car or colectivo (shared van), or you can book this best San Jose del Pacifico tours.
🍄 How to take mushrooms in San Jose del Pacifico
Though technically illegal, mushrooms have been used as plant medicine in San Jose del Pacifico for centuries.
The government is fully aware of what’s going on with them, but they look the other way. Visitors can buy medicinal mushrooms in shops all over town.
If you’re looking to partake, the best months for fresh mushrooms in San Jose del Pacifico is from June to August, during the Oaxaca rainy season.
As with all medicines, make sure you’re taking the correct dose in the correct way, so you don’t harm or endanger yourself.
Prices vary, but one dose of mushrooms in San Jose del Pacifico costs about $200-250 pesos ($10-15 USD).
Flights to Oaxaca City Mexico
When traveling to Oaxaca City, use Oaxaca International Airport (code: OAX).
It has flights from several United States cities, including Dallas/Fort Worth, Houston, LA and Chicago.
If you’re already in Mexico, you can fly here from major cities including Mexico City, Guadalajara, Tijuana and Monterrey.
The Oaxaca airport is just 20-30 minutes from downtown, and you can take a cab, colectivo (small, shared van) or private transportation service to your accommodation in Oaxaca.
🚕 Oaxaca Travel Tips: There’s no Uber in Oaxaca Mexico, but there are plenty of taxis.
If you’re planning to take a lot of day trips, or just need a car rental in Oaxaca, the airport is the best place to get one.
Mexico City to Oaxaca City Travel
Mexico City to Oaxaca Drive
For those who love a good road trip, pick up your rental car in Mexico City, and hit the road.
The drive from Mexico City to Oaxaca City will take about 6-8 hours; while Mexico City to Puerto Escondido, Huatulco and the other Oaxaca beaches will take closer to 11-12 hours.
You can do the Mexico City to Oaxaca drive in a day, but if you’re heading to the beaches, consider a hotel for one night as many say it’s not safe to drive at night.
Is it safe to drive in Mexico?
As a general rule, yes, Mexico road trips are safe — though you’ll obviously be driving in another country, which might be intimidating.
To be as confident and safe as possible, familiarize yourself with Mexico driving laws and customs before you hit the road.
You can always ask the agent at your Mexico car rental for advice, and check out the 10 Mexico driving tips in article, Renting A Car in Mexico: Everything You Need to Know.
If you’re driving across the border into to Mexico, check out this Driving to Mexico Guide for more info.
Mexico City to Oaxaca Bus
Mexico’s largest bus company, ADO, has comfortable buses for the eight hour trip to Oaxaca City, and the 12-14 hour drive to Puerto Escondido.
⚠️ Note: The ADO website is not easy to use and doesn’t take United Staes credit cards, so book your tickets here for the Mexico Oaxaca bus.
Make sure to opt for their luxury class bus option on longer rides like this one.
In this class, you’ll enjoy the comfy, large, recliner-style seats and outlets at each seat for your gadgets.
The ADO bus from Mexico City to Oaxaca has overnight trip options, which some travelers prefer.
No matter your time choice, know that bus transport in Mexico is safe, inexpensive and convenient.
Mexico City to Oaxaca Flights
With numerous low cost Mexico carriers, the best way to get from Mexico City to Oaxaca is by plane.
Though costs fluctuate, this 90-minute flight is relatively inexpensive when compared to the bus.
On average, the Mexico City to Oaxaca bus costs about $35 USD, and takes 8+ hours.
On the other hand, you can find plane tickets for as little as $55 USD, and flights are only 1.5 hours.
Traveling to Oaxaca FAQs
Is Oaxaca safe for travel?
Short answer: Yes, for the vast majority of travelers, it is.
Longer answer: Aside from big surf waves, mosquitoes and not drinking too much mezcal, you’re in little danger in Oaxaca City or Oaxaca state.
In fact, Oaxaca is considered one of the safest states in Mexico for visitors.
Oaxaca City is the country’s 67th largest city, with a population of about 275,000, but retains a humble, pueblo vibe.
SOLO TRAVEL OAXACA: Head to Mexico Solo Travel: 20 Amazing Destinations for Female Travelers, to read Rebecca’s traveling to Oaxaca solo story.
As no place on Earth is 100% safe, you’ll want to follow the 10 General Travel Safety Tips below — you know, the same ones you’d follow when traveling anywhere.
You should also register for the STEP Program and put your mind at ease with Mexico travel insurance.
Is Oaxaca worth visiting?
As you likely need to take two flights to Oaxaca Mexico, or a flight and a bus, you might be wondering if traveling to Oaxaca is worth it.
I hope this guide to Oaxaca made it clear that YES, it is!
Why visit Oaxaca Mexico?
One of the best things to do in Oaxaca is attend the festivals.
If possible, visit during Dia de Muertos (Day of the Dead), the most fun, festive and best time of year to visit Oaxaca City.
As one of the most bucket list Mexico festivals, you’ll want to book your travel plans for this as early as possible — even as early as January — though the festival is November 1 to November 2.
Is there Uber in Oaxaca City?
Here’s one of the best Oaxaca travel tips: There’s no Uber in Oaxaca Mexico and no Lyft in Oaxaca either.
However, there’s plenty of taxis if you’re not renting a car in Oaxaca. There’s Oaxaca public transportation, but even in the state capital, it’s not great.
For those doing some Oaxaca day trips, a rental car comes in handy as there’s a lot to see just outside of the city.
For those who want to rent a car, I recommend and use Discover Cars for all my Mexico car rentals.
They compare local Mexican companies and international companies, so you get the best rates.
Another options are booking some of these best Oaxaca tours, and skip the rental car entirely.
Do I need a visa for Mexico?
No — U.S., Canadian and most European passport holders don’t need a visa to travel to Mexico.
This is just one reason Mexico is one of the best international travel destinations for Americans and others.
🎫 Passport Stamp and FMM Visa
When you arrive in Mexico and go through Customs and Immigration, you’ll receive either a passport stamp or a 180-day (6 month) FMM tourist card.
This is a small piece of paper that you need to hold on to so you can give it back to an Immigration officer when you leave the country — so don’t lose your FMM!
Of course, if you get the stamp in your passport instead, there’s no need to worry about losing it. At time goes, on the paper FMM is being phased out completely.
What do I pack for Oaxaca Mexico?
For the most part, Oaxaca is hot all year-long with 80-90°F days (26-32°C).
At night, temperatures drop to about 50-60°F (10-16°C) in Oaxaca City, but remain warm on the beaches.
As far as how to dress, Oaxacans are modest dressers, so pants/jeans with long sleeve tops are the norm.
Need some inspo? Check out these best Mexico outfits to get a visual.
☀️ Get more Oaxaca, Mexico weather info here, and head here to check out the Ultimate Packing List for Mexico + FREE Checklist Download.
However, sundresses, flowy, breathable, cotton, and light-colored clothing works; bonus points for anything that doesn’t show sweat.
At night, you’ll want a jacket and boots in Oaxaca City.
With Oaxaca’s sunny, hot (and often humid 😥) days, definitely pack this Water-To-Go Bottle to stay hydrated, and eco-friendly sunscreen to avoid sunburns and practice responsible tourism in Mexico.
If you plan on drinking a lot of mezcal, don’t forget your anti-hangover meds.
🧳 FREE Printable Packing List for Mexico
Wondering exactly what to pack for Oaxaca, and all of Mexico? Download your FREE printable packing list for Mexico here.
This multi-page Mexico packing checklist covers everything you’ll want to bring, and more importantly, what not to bring to Mexico.
My Final Thoughts on Traveling to Oaxaca City, Mexico
Oaxaca, in a word, is magical. Oaxaca is the Mexico people imagine Mexico to be. I sincerely hope this Oaxaca City Travel Guide showcased that.
This state has it all: rich history, gorgeous beaches, colorful festivals, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, locally-made mezcal, beautiful nature, colonial architecture and artisan communities.
There’s also the traditional Oaxacan food 🤤 and the Oaxaca food scene rivals many of the top foodie destinations in the world like New York City, Paris and Bangkok.
If you need more info about traveling to Oaxaca Mexico, check out all the Oaxaca travel guides on my dedicated Oaxaca website — TravelToOaxaca.com.