Things to do in Oaxaca
Oaxaca, Mexico, is a vibrant destination where ancient traditions meet modern creativity. Nestled in the heart of southern Mexico, this city offers a unique blend of indigenous culture, colonial history, world-renowned cuisine, and breathtaking natural beauty. We had the pleasure of visiting Oaxaca recently, and the experience left a lasting impression. Whether you’re a culture enthusiast, foodie, adventurer, or simply seeking a memorable getaway, Oaxaca has something for everyone. Here’s your expert guide—plus our own tips—on the best things to do in Oaxaca.
Oaxaca Day Trips: Adventure Beyond the City
The best Oaxaca travel guide always recommends day trips to explore the surrounding beauty. Here our top picks:
Explore Monte Albán: Oaxaca’s Ancient Wonder
One of the must-see Oaxaca attractions is Monte Albán, a UNESCO World Heritage Site perched above the city. I joined a guided Monte Albán day trip and was amazed by the panoramic views and the stories behind the ancient Zapotec ruins. If you’re a history lover or just want incredible photos, Monte Albán should top your Oaxaca travel guide.
“Oaxaca is not just a place you visit—it’s a place that stays with you, in every color, every flavor, and every heartbeat of its streets.”
Day trip to Hierve el Agua
Oaxaca cultural experiences
Dive into Oaxaca Markets: A Feast for the Senses
No Oaxaca travel guide is complete without mentioning the city’s famous markets.
Mercado 20 de Noviembre
Here you can sample mole and even chapulines (toasted grasshoppers). We spent our time browsing handmade crafts and chatting with the friendly locals. The chapulines, however, weren’t really our thing.
Pro tip: Visit in the morning for the freshest produce and most energetic atmosphere.
Mercado Benito Juarez
Inside, you’ll find an incredible variety of stalls selling everything from traditional Oaxacan textiles, handmade leather goods, and colorful pottery to fresh produce, local cheeses, mole pastes, and chapulines (seasoned grasshoppers). It’s also a great place to enjoy authentic street-style meals — grab a seat at one of the small comida counters and savor dishes like memelas, empanadas, or go to grab some delicious smoothies.
We also tried Lechisilla y arroz which is a traditional Oaxacan dessert that combines two beloved elements: sweetened milk and rice.
Central de Abastos
We didn’t get the chance to try them during our visit, but we recommend stopping by Memelas Doña Vale in the Central de Abastos.
Location : Memelas Doña Vale
Her business was closed that day, so we decided to stroll around the market. That’s when we stumbled upon a hidden gem — a small, women-run eatery where we enjoyed a few delicious quesadillas. Unfortunately, we don’t have the exact location, but if you ask around for CECY and show a picture, locals will be happy to point you in the right direction.
Take the opportunity to wander through the bustling Central de Abastos market, where you can sample a variety of street foods, browse local products, and pick up fresh, seasonal fruits.
Oaxaca Food Tours: Savor Local Flavors
Oaxaca is often called Mexico’s culinary capital, and after doing a food tour on our own, we understand why! From rich tlayudas to empanadas every bite was memorable. Don’t miss the chance to taste your way through the city with a guided experience.
Las Empanadas
Nestled in Oaxaca’s historic center on Jesús Carranza street, Empanadas del Carmen Alto is a legendary street-food stall offering authentic Oaxacan flavors since its origin in 1965
Open from late afternoon into midnight, Empanadas del Carmen Alto attracts both locals and visitors looking for a memorable evening bite. For almost 60 years, it has served as a beloved stop for night-shift workers, tourists, and food lovers alike
Location : Empanadas del Carmen Alto
Las Tlayudas
Tlayudas La Chinita is a must-visit street food institution in Oaxaca, nestled at the corner of Calle 20 de Noviembre and Nuño del Mercado in the city’s historic center.
This beloved stand is known far and wide for its perfectly toasted tlayudas—Oaxaca’s take on “pizza,” featuring a large, semi-crisp corn tortilla loaded with traditional toppings
We found this spot serving the best Tlayudas in the town, it was featured in Street food series on Netflix.
Operating from 8 PM to around midnight, it’s a bustling, informal setting where queues form quickly, but the staff manages the flow with an efficient numbering system
Location : Tlayudas la Chinita
Refrescos
Nestled in the charming neighborhood of Trinidad de las Huertas, just a stroll from Oaxaca’s Zócalo, El Posito is a family-run institution that has delighted locals for over 65 years
Must-Try Delights
Piedrazos
These local treasures feature rock-hard bread marinated in house-made vinegar, then topped with carrots, potatoes, onion, queso Oaxaca, chile powder, and salsa.Aguas Frescas
Fresh and flavorful, the menu spans beloved classics like agua de horchata, jamaica, and chilacayota, alongside more adventurous delights like aguas de tuna, guanábana, zapote, and plum in vinegar
Location : El posito
Take a Oaxaca Food Tour
Oaxaca is known as Mexico’s culinary capital. we also recommend joining a guided food tour to discover the secrets behind its famous dishes.
Oaxacan cooking class
Take a Oaxacan cooking class to learn how to prepare traditional dishes like mole, tamales, or memelas.
If you’re vegetarian you can sign up for this activity :
Other things to do in Oaxaca
Oaxaca Nightlife and Street Food
Oaxaca’s zócalo comes alive each evening with music, dancing, and delicious street food. you can join night street food tour including pick-up and embark on a culinary exploration of Oaxaca’s vibrant street food scene. your guide will introduce you to the best local vendors and hidden gems, where you’ll have the opportunity to sample mouthwatering delicacies.
Read more about – Private Historic City Tour + Street Food of Oaxaca
Experience Oaxaca’s Art and Crafts
Oaxaca is home to talented artisans. you can take a day trip to Teotitlán del Valle, where I watched master weavers create beautiful rugs using natural dyes. Many workshops welcome visitors and offer hands-on experiences—perfect for anyone interested in traditional crafts.
Visit the Santo Domingo Church and Botanical Garden
The Church of Santo Domingo de Guzmán is a baroque masterpiece with an ornate interior and fascinating history. Next door, the Jardín Etnobotánico showcases Oaxaca’s diverse plant life and is a peaceful urban oasis.
Oaxaca Itinerary: 5 Days of Culture, Cuisine & Adventure
Day 1: Discover Historic Oaxaca City
Morning:
Arrive in Oaxaca and settle into your accommodation.
Start your adventure with a stroll around the Zócalo (main square) and soak up the lively atmosphere.
Visit the Santo Domingo Church—Oaxaca’s iconic baroque landmark.
Explore the Jardín Etnobotánico (Botanical Garden) next door (guided tours usually available).
Afternoon:
Head to Mercado Benito Juárez and Mercado 20 de Noviembre for lunch. Sample local specialties like tlayudas, mole, and fresh juices.
Browse the stalls for souvenirs and artisanal crafts.
Evening:
Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.
Optional: Join a guided Oaxaca food tour to get an introduction to the city’s culinary scene.
Day 2: Monte Albán & Oaxaca Museums
Morning:
Take a guided day trip to Monte Albán, the ancient Zapotec archaeological site just outside the city. Explore the pyramids, tombs, and panoramic views.
Afternoon:
Return to Oaxaca and visit the Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca (located in the former Santo Domingo monastery) to deepen your understanding of local history and culture.
Evening:
Relax in the Zócalo and enjoy live music or street performances.
Try some street food from local vendors.
Day 3: Artisans & Villages Day Trip
Morning:
Take a day trip to Teotitlán del Valle, a village famous for traditional rug weaving and natural dyes.
Visit San Bartolo Coyotepec for black pottery or San Martín Tilcajete for colorful alebrijes (folk art sculptures).
Afternoon:
Enjoy a local lunch in one of the villages.
Return to Oaxaca and explore local art galleries or the Textile Museum.
Evening:
Sample Oaxacan mezcal at a mezcalería or join a mezcal tasting tour.
Day 4: Hierve el Agua, Mitla & Mezcal
Full Day:
Book a day trip to Hierve el Agua, the stunning petrified waterfalls and natural mineral pools. Take a swim and snap photos of the incredible scenery.
On the way, stop at Mitla, a Zapotec archaeological site known for its intricate stonework.
Visit a local mezcal distillery (palenque) to learn about and taste Oaxaca’s signature spirit.
Many tours combine these stops for a convenient full-day adventure.
Evening:
Return to Oaxaca and unwind after a day of exploration.
Day 5: Culture, Cooking, or Sierra Norte Adventure
Option 1: Culture & Cooking
Take a Oaxacan cooking class to learn how to prepare traditional dishes like mole, tamales, or memelas.
Spend your last afternoon shopping for final souvenirs or visiting any museums or galleries you may have missed.
Option 2: Sierra Norte Nature
Book a guided hike or eco-tour in the Sierra Norte mountains (Pueblos Mancomunados) for breathtaking nature, fresh air, and a glimpse of rural Oaxacan life.
Evening:
Enjoy a farewell dinner at a favorite local spot.
Reflect on your journey and take one last evening stroll through Oaxaca’s charming streets.
Tips for Your Oaxaca Itinerary
Adjust the order of activities based on your arrival/departure times and interests.
Book tours and classes in advance, especially during festivals or peak season.
Oaxaca is walkable, but day trips require transportation—guided tours are convenient and informative.
This 5-day Oaxaca itinerary covers the city’s best attractions, vibrant markets, cultural experiences, and unforgettable day trips. You’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for Oaxaca’s rich heritage, amazing food, and welcoming people.
