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Get InspiredNorth AmericaMexicoOaxaca

Oaxaca

Oaxaca, Mexico
City·Historic, Vibrant, Culturally Rich
Oaxaca
Photo by JmexicanT from Google Places
Oaxaca
Photo by De Ac from Google Places
Oaxaca
Photo by Pedro Montes from Google Places
Oaxaca
Photo by lucia reyes from Google Places
Oaxaca
Photo by Alejandro Enriquez Ssnchez from Google Places
Oaxaca
Photo by JmexicanT from Google Places
Oaxaca
Photo by De Ac from Google Places
Oaxaca
Photo by Pedro Montes from Google Places
Oaxaca
Photo by lucia reyes from Google Places
Oaxaca
Photo by Alejandro Enriquez Ssnchez from Google Places

Oaxaca City, the capital of the Mexican state of Oaxaca, is a vibrant destination known for its rich cultural heritage and history. The city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, celebrated for its colonial-era architecture and significant archaeological sites like Monte Albán. Visitors can immerse themselves in the vibrant traditions of the Zapotec and Mixtec cultures, especially during the Guelaguetza festival, which showcases traditional dances, music, and indigenous beauty pageants. The city's unique green stone buildings add to its charm, making it a must-visit for those interested in history and culture.

Oaxaca City, the capital of the Mexican state of Oaxaca, is a vibrant destination known for its rich cultural heritage and history. The city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, celebrated for its colonial-era architecture and significant archaeological sites like Monte Albán. Visitors can immerse themselves in the vibrant traditions of the Zapotec and Mixtec cultures, especially during the Guelaguetza festival, which showcases traditional dances, music, and indigenous beauty pageants. The city's unique green stone buildings add to its charm, making it a must-visit for those interested in history and culture.

You might want to ask

Highlights

  • UNESCO World Heritage Site designation.

  • Colonial-era structures and green stone buildings.

  • Rich Zapotec and Mixtec cultural influences.

  • Monte Albán archaeological site.

  • Guelaguetza cultural festival.

Before you go: Oaxaca essentials

  • Close access to Monte Albán, a significant archaeological site.

  • Rich cultural heritage with numerous museums and historical sites.

  • Vibrant festivals like Guelaguetza, offering a deep dive into local traditions.

Getting Around

Oaxaca City has a reliable public transportation system including buses and taxis, making it easy to explore.

Local Cuisine

Try local delicacies like mole and tlayudas, which are a staple in Oaxacan cuisine.

Best For

Heritage tourism and cultural festivals.

Currency

MXN $

Average Cost

$50-$100 p/day

Languages Spoken

Spanish, Zapotec, Mixtec

Cultural Etiquette

Respect local customs, especially during festivals and in indigenous communities.

Safety

Oaxaca is generally safe, but like any city, it's wise to stay aware of your surroundings.

Best time to visit Oaxaca

April-JuneSeptember-November

Best Season

Spring

Spring in Oaxaca is pleasant with mild temperatures, ideal for exploring the city's historical sites.

Best Season

Summer

Summer can be hot and humid, but it's a great time to experience the Guelaguetza festival.

Best Season

Fall

Fall offers comfortable weather and fewer tourists, perfect for a relaxed visit.

Winter

Winters are mild, making it a great time to enjoy the city's cultural attractions without the crowds.

Join millions of curious travelers.

Get early access to exclusive partner discounts, tips & user itineraries.

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Location

Oaxaca, Mexico

Things to do in Oaxaca

Hierve el Agua 2.5 hours, Mitla, Tule, Rugs and Mezcal for a Day
From $75

Hierve el Agua 2.5 hours, Mitla, Tule, Rugs and Mezcal for a Day

4.9(1,4 K)
Duration: 11h
Oaxaca City
Hierve el Agua, Tule Tree, Mitla and Mezcal Distillery Tour
From $55

Hierve el Agua, Tule Tree, Mitla and Mezcal Distillery Tour

4.7(1,2 K)
Duration: 12h
Oaxaca City
Monte Alban Guided Half Day Tour
From $32

Monte Alban Guided Half Day Tour

4.8(1 K)
Duration: 3h
Oaxaca City
1 Hour Oaxacan Chocolate Making Class with Mole-making and Drinks
From $40

1 Hour Oaxacan Chocolate Making Class with Mole-making and Drinks

4.8(13)
Duration: 1h
Oaxaca City
Traditional Cooking Class with Minerva Lopez
From $118

Traditional Cooking Class with Minerva Lopez

4.8(204)
Duration: 6h
Oaxaca City
Hierve el Agua Guided Full Day Tour in Oaxaca
From $39

Hierve el Agua Guided Full Day Tour in Oaxaca

4.7(154)
Duration: 10h
Oaxaca City
Sustainable Mezcal Tour at an Award Winning Family Distillery
From $25

Sustainable Mezcal Tour at an Award Winning Family Distillery

5.0(1)
Duration: 5h
Oaxaca City
The Mezcal Journey
From $108

The Mezcal Journey

4.9(296)
Duration: 6h
Oaxaca City
Explore on Viator

Natural & historic sites near Oaxaca

Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Benito Juárez National Park

Oaxaca
Protected Area · Peaceful, Natural, Historic, Expansive