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What's there to see in Oaxaca?

Updated: Jul 5

Oaxaca, Mexico
Oaxaca, Mexico

Oaxaca (pronounced wah-HAH-kah) is one of Mexico’s most culturally rich and diverse regions. Whether you're interested in food, art, history, nature, or indigenous cultures, Oaxaca offers a deep and unforgettable experience. Here's a curated list of the best things to see and do in Oaxaca, both in the city and the surrounding region:

🌆 In Oaxaca City

  1. Zócalo & Historic Center

    • The vibrant main square is surrounded by colonial buildings, street performers, and cafés. It’s a great starting point.

  2. Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzmán

    • A stunning Baroque church and former monastery with an opulent interior and a beautiful plaza in front.

  3. Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca

    • Housed in the Santo Domingo complex, this museum holds incredible Zapotec and Mixtec artifacts, including treasures from Monte Albán.

  4. Ethnobotanical Garden (Jardín Etnobotánico)

    • A guided tour of this unique garden showcases Oaxaca’s amazing biodiversity and traditional uses of native plants.

  5. Markets:

    • Mercado Benito Juárez – for crafts, chocolate, mezcal, and local snacks.

    • Mercado 20 de Noviembre – famous for the "Pasillo de Humo" (Smoke Aisle) where meats are grilled to order.

  6. Mezcal Tastings

    • Oaxaca is mezcal country. Visit local mezcalerías or do a guided tasting with producers who explain the process and traditions.

🏛️ Archaeological Sites

  1. Monte Albán

    • The ancient Zapotec capital is perched on a mountain with panoramic views and monumental ruins. A UNESCO World Heritage Site.

  2. Mitla

    • Known for its intricate geometric stonework, this sacred site of the Mixtec people is smaller but highly significant.

🌄 Natural Wonders

  1. Hierve el Agua

    • Petrified waterfalls and natural mineral pools in the mountains. Ideal for photos, hikes, and swimming with a view.

  2. Sierra Norte

    • A region of highland villages (like Cuajimoloyas and Benito Juárez) offering ecotourism, hiking, and biking trails.

  3. Tlacolula Valley

    • A region full of ancient traditions, weaving villages, and Sunday markets that are vibrant and authentic.

🧵 Cultural & Artisan Villages

  1. Teotitlán del Valle

    • Famous for handwoven wool rugs using natural dyes. Many workshops open their doors to visitors.

  2. San Bartolo Coyotepec

    • Known for its unique black pottery (barro negro).

  3. San Martín Tilcajete and San Antonio Arrazola

    • Centers for colorful alebrijes (fantastical wooden carvings).

🍽️ Food Experiences

  • Try traditional Oaxacan dishes like:

    • Mole negro

    • Tlayudas

    • Chapulines (roasted grasshoppers)

    • Tamales oaxaqueños

  • Take a cooking class to learn the secrets of Oaxacan cuisine.

🗓️ Bonus: Plan Around Festivals

  • Guelaguetza (July): A massive indigenous cultural festival with traditional dances and costumes.

  • Día de Muertos (Oct 31–Nov 2): Oaxaca is one of the best places in Mexico to experience Day of the Dead.

If you're interested, I can also help plan a custom 3–5 day itinerary based on your interests (nature, food, history, etc.). Would you like that?


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