Mexico

Oaxaca: Mexico’s Cultural Soul and Culinary Heartbeat

Oaxaca is one of Mexico’s most culturally rich and visually striking destinations, known for its deep indigenous roots, vibrant traditions, and exceptional cuisine. Founded in the 16th century atop earlier Zapotec settlements, the city has long been a crossroads of civilizations. Today, Oaxaca stands out for preserving its heritage while remaining creative and dynamic, from ancient ruins on surrounding hills to contemporary art and food scenes in its historic center.

Life in Oaxaca moves at a human pace. Markets are social spaces as much as commercial ones, streets double as galleries, and celebrations follow the rhythms of centuries-old calendars. The region is also home to remarkable archaeological sites and rural villages where crafts such as weaving and wood carving are still practiced using ancestral techniques.

This guide brings together Oaxaca’s most popular attractions and meaningful experiences, arranged to help travelers explore the city first, then venture outward to surrounding valleys and villages. From monumental ruins to everyday rituals like grinding chocolate, these experiences reveal why Oaxaca is consistently ranked among Mexico’s most rewarding destinations.

Top Attractions & Experiences

Templo de Santo Domingo & Museum

The Templo de Santo Domingo is Oaxaca’s most iconic landmark, a grand Baroque church built by Dominican friars in the 16th century. Its richly gilded interior reflects both religious devotion and colonial ambition. Adjacent to the church, the former monastery now houses a museum that traces Oaxaca’s history from pre-Hispanic times through the colonial era.

Admire the ornate church interior

Explore archaeological and cultural exhibits

Walk the surrounding pedestrian-friendly area

How to get there: Located in the historic center, walkable from most central hotels.

How much time to spend: 1.5–2 hours.

Address: Macedonio Alcalá s/n, Centro, Oaxaca – Google map

Notes: Dress respectfully when entering the church.

Zócalo & Alcalá Pedestrian Street

The Zócalo is the social heart of Oaxaca, framed by arcades, cafés, and historic buildings. Just steps away, Alcalá Street is a lively pedestrian corridor connecting major landmarks. Together, they form the city’s main gathering space, where music, conversation, and daily rituals unfold.

Relax in shaded park benches

Watch street performers and musicians

Stroll along Alcalá Street

How to get there: Central location, easily walkable.

How much time to spend: 1–2 hours.

Address: Plaza de la Constitución, Oaxaca – Google map

Notes: Evenings are especially lively.

Mercado 20 de Noviembre

This market is a centerpiece of Oaxacan cuisine, famous for its food stalls and smoky grill alley. Vendors prepare regional specialties using recipes passed down through generations, making it one of the best places to understand local flavors.

Sample traditional Oaxacan dishes

Walk through the meat-grilling corridor

Experience daily market life

How to get there: Short walk from the Zócalo.

How much time to spend: 1–1.5 hours.

Address: Calle 20 de Noviembre, Centro, Oaxaca – Google map

Notes: Visit during lunch hours for full energy.

Mercado Benito Juárez

Located near the main square, Mercado Benito Juárez offers a colorful mix of food, textiles, and everyday goods. It provides a more general snapshot of local commerce and complements nearby food-focused markets.

Browse local products and crafts

Try regional snacks

Observe everyday shopping routines

How to get there: Near the Zócalo, walkable.

How much time to spend: 45–60 minutes.

Address: Calle Flores Magón, Centro, Oaxaca – Google map

Notes: Keep belongings secure in busy areas.

Ethnobotanical Garden

The Ethnobotanical Garden showcases Oaxaca’s incredible plant diversity and the relationship between native flora and indigenous cultures. Guided visits explain how plants have been used for medicine, food, and ritual over centuries.

Learn about native plants

Explore landscaped gardens

Understand indigenous knowledge systems

How to get there: Next to Santo Domingo complex.

How much time to spend: 1–1.5 hours.

Address: Reforma s/n, Centro, Oaxaca – Google map

Notes: Guided tours are required.

Monte Albán Ruins

Monte Albán is one of Mesoamerica’s most important archaeological sites, built by the Zapotec civilization atop a flattened mountaintop. The site offers sweeping valley views and monumental stone structures that reveal sophisticated urban planning.

Explore ancient plazas and pyramids

Learn about Zapotec civilization

Enjoy panoramic valley views

How to get there: Taxi or organized transport from Oaxaca.

How much time to spend: 2–3 hours.

Address: Monte Albán, Oaxaca – Google map

Notes: Bring sun protection and water.

Mitla Archaeological Site

Mitla is known for its intricate geometric stone mosaics, unique in Mesoamerican architecture. Unlike Monte Albán, Mitla emphasizes ceremonial and residential structures rather than monumental plazas.

Admire detailed stone patterns

Learn about Mixtec and Zapotec cultures

Explore the nearby village

How to get there: Bus or tour from Oaxaca.

How much time to spend: 1.5–2 hours.

Address: Mitla, Oaxaca – Google map

Notes: Combine with nearby craft villages.

Hierve el Agua

Hierve el Agua features dramatic rock formations resembling frozen waterfalls, created by mineral-rich springs. The site also offers natural pools and expansive views over the surrounding valleys.

See petrified waterfalls

Enjoy scenic viewpoints

Walk designated trails

How to get there: Guided tour or car from Oaxaca.

How much time to spend: Half day.

Address: Hierve el Agua, Oaxaca – Google map

Notes: Access roads can be rough.

Street Art in Jalatlaco & Xochimilco

These traditional neighborhoods have become informal outdoor galleries, where murals decorate walls and alleyways. The art reflects local identity, social themes, and Oaxaca’s creative energy.

Walk colorful residential streets

Photograph murals

Explore quieter neighborhoods

How to get there: Short walk from the historic center.

How much time to spend: 1–1.5 hours.

Address: Jalatlaco & Xochimilco, Oaxaca – Google map

Notes: Morning light works best for photos.

Chocolate Shops & Molinos

Chocolate plays a central role in Oaxacan cuisine, especially in drinks and mole. Traditional molinos grind cacao, sugar, and spices into custom blends, offering insight into everyday culinary traditions.

Visit traditional molinos

Learn about cacao preparation

Sample local chocolate drinks

How to get there: Scattered throughout the historic center.

How much time to spend: 45–60 minutes.

Address: Centro Histórico, Oaxaca – Google map

Notes: Ask about spice combinations.

San Martín Tilcajete Alebrijes

This village is famous for hand-carved alebrijes, brightly painted wooden figures rooted in local folklore. Workshops allow visitors to see the creative process from carving to painting.

Visit artisan workshops

Learn about alebrije symbolism

Support local craftspeople

How to get there: Taxi or tour from Oaxaca.

How much time to spend: 1.5–2 hours.

Address: San Martín Tilcajete, Oaxaca – Google map

Notes: Respect workshops as working spaces.

Teotitlán del Valle Weaving Town

Teotitlán del Valle is known for traditional wool weaving using natural dyes. Families demonstrate techniques that date back generations, highlighting the importance of textile heritage.

Watch weaving demonstrations

Learn about natural dyes

Explore the village streets

How to get there: Bus or tour from Oaxaca.

How much time to spend: 1.5–2 hours.

Address: Teotitlán del Valle, Oaxaca – Google map

Notes: Ask permission before photographing artisans.

Tlacolula Sunday Market

This weekly market is one of the largest and most traditional in the region. Vendors from surrounding villages gather to sell food, crafts, and everyday goods, creating a vibrant community event.

Experience a traditional rural market

Sample regional foods

Observe local trade traditions

How to get there: Bus or taxi from Oaxaca.

How much time to spend: 2–3 hours.

Address: Tlacolula de Matamoros, Oaxaca – Google map

Notes: Arrive early for the best atmosphere.

Hidden Gems & Local Favorites

Xochimilco Neighborhood Walks

Xochimilco offers a slower, residential feel with colorful houses, small chapels, and community murals. It is ideal for travelers looking to step away from busy tourist routes.

Walk quiet residential streets

Discover neighborhood murals

Experience everyday Oaxaca life

How to get there: Walk or short taxi ride from the center.

How much time to spend: 2–3 hours.

Address: Xochimilco, Oaxaca – Google map

Notes: Best explored during daylight.

Photography Hotspots

Monte Albán at midday
Colorful streets of Jalatlaco
Santo Domingo church interior
Hierve el Agua rock formations
Cours of local markets

Pro Tips & Local Secrets

Group city attractions by walking routes
Plan archaeological sites early in the day
Carry small bills for markets
Allow extra time for village visits

Oaxaca continues to trend as one of Mexico’s top cultural travel destinations thanks to its cuisine, history, indigenous traditions, and artisan communities. Travelers who take time to explore both the city and surrounding valleys will find an experience that feels deeply rooted, authentic, and unforgettable.