7 days in Oaxaca, Mexico: What to see, eat and do. Full city guide
Imagine a city filled with vibrant colors, rich cultural history, and some of the most delicious food you’ll ever taste. That’s Oaxaca, Mexico for you! Nestled in the southern region of the country, Oaxaca offers an irresistible blend of indigenous traditions, colonial architecture, and breathtaking natural beauty. As you stroll through the cobblestone streets lined with artisans’ shops, you’ll be captivated by the city’s charm. Oaxaca is known for its exquisite cuisine, world-renowned handicrafts, and the awe-inspiring Monte Albán archaeological site.
Things to Consider Before Arriving to Oaxaca
- Friendly locals: Oaxacans are known for their warmth and hospitality, making visitors feel right at home.
- Art lover’s paradise: From traditional crafts to contemporary art, Oaxaca is a haven for art enthusiasts.
- Limited public transportation: While the city center is walkable, you might need to rely on taxis or rental cars to explore some of the surrounding areas.
- Perfect for: Foodies, history buffs, and art aficionados will fall in love with Oaxaca and its unique offerings.
What to Bring with You
When packing for Oaxaca, consider the following essentials:
- Comfortable shoes for walking on cobblestone streets
- A light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings
- Sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun
- An appetite for trying new and exciting dishes
Best Time of the Year to Visit
Oaxaca can be enjoyed year-round, but the most popular time to visit is from November to February. During these months, you’ll experience pleasant weather without the scorching heat of summer and fewer rain showers than the wet season.
How to Get into Oaxaca
There are several ways to reach Oaxaca:
- By plane: Oaxaca’s Xoxocotlán International Airport (OAX) is located just 7 miles from the city center, with flights from major cities in Mexico and some international destinations.
- By bus: ADO bus company operates comfortable, long-distance buses from Mexico City and other major cities to Oaxaca. The journey from Mexico City takes approximately 4.5 to 6 hours.
- By car: If you prefer a road trip, renting a car and driving to Oaxaca from Mexico City takes about 6 hours. This route allows you to explore the charming towns and spectacular scenery along the way.
7 day city guide trip to Oaxaca, Mexico
Day 1: Arrival and exploration of the Historic Center
After checking in at your hotel, start your exploration of the city’s Historic Center, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the Santo Domingo de Guzman Church and Museum, the Temple of San Agustin, and the Macedonio Alcala Theater. Stop at the Zocalo, the city’s main square, for a refreshing agua fresca and to take in the local vibe.
For lunch, head to one of the city’s famous markets, Mercado 20 de Noviembre or Mercado Benito Juarez, to try some authentic Oaxacan cuisine such as mole, tlayudas, and chapulines. In the afternoon, visit the Rufino Tamayo Museum of Contemporary Art and the Ethnobotanical Garden.
Day 2: Monte Alban and Cuilapam de Guerrero
Take a day trip to Monte Alban, the ancient Zapotec city located just outside of Oaxaca. It’s worth the climb to the top of the hill for breathtaking views and the opportunity to learn about the Mesoamerican civilization that once inhabited the area. On the way back to the city, stop at Cuilapam de Guerrero to see the impressive unfinished Dominican convent and learn about the region’s colonial history.
Day 3: Tlacolula Market and Mezcal tasting
Spend the morning exploring the Tlacolula Market, known for its vibrant colors and incredible variety of products. Try some local treats such as empanadas and tejate, a traditional Oaxacan drink made from cocoa and maize. In the afternoon, visit a local mezcal distillery to learn about the process of making this iconic Mexican drink and tasting a few varieties.
Day 4: Hierve El Agua and Teotitlan del Valle
Another day trip, this time to Hierve El Agua, a natural wonder consisting of mineral springs and petrified waterfalls. Bring your swimsuit and enjoy a refreshing dip in the springs. On the way back, stop at Teotitlan del Valle, a small town known for its traditional handmade textiles.
Day 5: Museums and art galleries
Spend the day exploring the city’s many museums and art galleries. Visit the Museum of Oaxacan Cultures, the Museum of Textiles, and the Graphic Arts Institute of Oaxaca. In the evening, take a stroll through the city’s artsy Santo Domingo neighborhood and check out some local galleries.
Day 6: Mitla and San Pablo Villa de Mitla
Take another day trip to the archaeological site of Mitla, another ancient Zapotec city with impressive ruins and intricate stone carvings. Afterwards, visit the nearby town of San Pablo Villa de Mitla to see its beautiful colonial-era church.
Day 7: Cooking class and farewell
Take a cooking class to learn how to make some of Oaxaca’s famous dishes such as tamales, chiles rellenos, and quesillo. In the evening, head back to the Zocalo to enjoy the city’s nightlife and a final dinner with some new friends you’ve made along the way.
How to continue your travel after you have spent 7 days in Oaxaca
If you’re looking for a change of scenery, head to the bustling city of Puebla, located just a few hours away by bus. Visit the Puebla Cathedral, the Great Pyramid of Cholula, and the Museum of Mexican Revolution. Another option is to head south to the Pacific coast and visit the beach towns of Huatulco or Puerto Escondido, where you can relax on the beach and surf some of Mexico’s best waves.
