If you’re looking for a city that’s not overwhelmingly big, yet packs a huge punch in terms of activities and culture, then Oaxaca is the destination for you. There are numerous things to do in Oaxaca to keep you busy — this is one of the best places to visit in Mexico.
A visit to this state in southern Mexico is best started off in the capital city of the same name, where you can spend a few days taking in the sights, digging into the cuisine, and embarking on some adventures.
On a short visit to Oaxaca City (it’s pronounced wa-ha-ka, by the way), you can bounce around the churches and museums, take day trips out to ancient ruins, indulge in the local cuisine, and maybe take part in a traditional festival.
Here are the 21 best things to do in Oaxaca. Start planning your trip to this awesome Mexican city.
Note: This article has been updated to reflect the best things to do in Oaxaca in 2021, plus it has been updated to include costs and directions to the sights. Enjoy your trip!
Getting Around
It’s quite easy to get around Oaxaca. You can take private taxis (a bit pricey) or rent your own car for around $25-$30 per day. There are also decent bus systems which you can book online with sites like Bookaway.
When we were in Oaxaca we mostly took buses in between cities, but when we were in the city we would taxi around or take public transport where possible. There are also some places to rent motorbikes if you want to save money when compared to car rentals.
1. Explore the Zocalo
One of the top things to do in Oaxaca is to explore the central part of the city. Known as the Zocalo, this area is the best place to get a feel for the city of Oaxaca. It’s also a great place to do some serious sightseeing.
Start out in the main square and bounce around the many famous landmarks nearby. You can easily fill an entire day or two with sightseeing in the Zocalo. There are plenty of places to grab some food or a drink as well whenever you need a break.
A visit to the Zocalo is always one of the top things to do in Mexico as a whole — this is the best spot for people-watching, relaxing with a drink, or grabbing a snack.
It’s also where you’ll typically find Mexican families enjoying themselves during the evening. Click here for directions to the zocalo in Oaxaca.
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2. Visit the Templo de Santo Domingo
The highlight of downtown Oaxaca is definitely the stunning Templo de Santo Domingo. This 16th-century Baroque Catholic church is beautiful inside and out.
After admiring the building from the square, be sure to go in to see the magnificent gilded interior. It’s been used as a church, monastery, and military barracks throughout history.
The Templo de Santo Domingo is open every day from 7AM-1PM and again from 4-8PM except during mass. If you visit on a Saturday, there’s a good chance you’ll see a few weddings taking place.
Entrance to the church is free. Click here for directions.
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3. Check out the Museum of Cultures
After visiting the church above, you can take some time to visit the Museo de las Culturas (Museum of Cultures). It’s housed in the beautiful monastery buildings of the complex and covers the history and culture of the region.
The most impressive display in the museum is the Treasure of Tomb 7 — a collection of precious stones and gold jewelry that was discovered in a Monte Alban tomb.
There’s also an excellent view of the city from inside the museum, making it well worth the $3.75 entrance fee. Click here for directions.
4. Take a Free Walking Tour (this should be the first thing you do in Oaxaca)
In cities all around the world, free walking tours are becoming more and more popular.
Taking the walking tour is definitely one of the best free things to do in Oaxaca City. You’ll learn a lot about the city, its history, and its culture from a knowledgeable local guide and make new friends in the process.
Woman weaving a basket at the market in Oaxaca
Free walking tours start every day at 10AM in front of the Oaxaca Cathedral. Tours last around two hours, leaving you plenty of time to follow some of your guide’s recommendations on what to do and where to eat.
Although the tours are technically “free”, tips are welcome. Click here for directions to the meeting point.
Another option for a great experience in Oaxaca is to join this tour with Gabriel who was born and raised in Oaxaca. On his very affordable and highly rated walking trip of the city, you’ll take in many different places in the city. Learn more here.
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5. Get Lost in the Markets
One of the essential things to do in Oaxaca is getting lost wandering around the city’s many markets. You’ll find delicious local food at a low price as well as plenty of interesting souvenirs.
Mole paste for sale in the market
The most well-known market is Benito Juarez, where you can try Oaxacan classics like mole, pick up some local cheese and mezcal, or get adventurous and snack on crickets.
Markets are an integral part of Mexican life, give yourself a few hours and enjoy the atmosphere. Click here for directions to Benito Juarez Market.
Another option and a great way to immerse yourself into the local life in Oaxaca is to join this fun experience in Oaxaca. Meet up with Betsy (a local from Oaxaca) and explore the top 3 markets in the city: Benito Juárez, November 20th, and La Cosecha Organic Market.
All of these bustling markets are known for their colors, smells, traditions, culture, and of course, food. You’ll try more than 20 different types of food on this trip! Learn more here.
6. Day Trip to Monte Alban (one of the top things to do in Oaxaca)
Far and away one of the most popular things to do in Oaxaca is taking a day trip out to the ruins at Monte Alban (White Mountain). Built by the Zapotecs, this is one of the most impressive archaeological sites in all of Latin America.
A visit to the Monte Alban ruins is a must when travelling Oaxaca
Unlike the more famous ruins at Chichen Itza, you can actually still climb the pyramids at Monte Alban. Doing so affords you stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
You can take a bus or taxi out to the ruins if you please, or you can sign up for a small group tour to go with a guide. With this highly-rated experience, your transportation and guide are included — by having a guide, you’ll learn much more about the ancient site.
*Tip: bring a picnic and enjoy some lunch in the shade, while gazing out at ancient ruins!
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7. Go for a Hike
When in Oaxaca, you’ll want to experience the beautiful nature surrounding the city. Leave the traffic behind and head to the mountains!
This hiking experience is a great way to get some fresh air while burning off some of the tasty Oaxacan food you’ve been eating. Meet up with Luis and head to the hills.
On the 10-15 kilometer hike (depending on your abilities), you’ll learn about Oaxaca, different types of trees and plants, and enjoy the incredible view of the Sierra Norte mountains. Breakfast and transportation are included.
Learn more about this fun, highly rated trip here. It’s one of the more unique things to do in Oaxaca.
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8. Visit the Botanical Gardens (one of the top things to do in Oaxaca to get away from the traffic!)
If you love seeing and learning about the local flora and fauna when you travel, you’ll want to be sure to hit the botanical gardens. Here you’ll be able to see many different plants that are native to the state of Oaxaca.
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A visit to the botanical gardens is easily combined with the cathedral and the culture museum, as they’re all located on the same grounds. There are English tours on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday at 11AM for about $5. Click here for directions.
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9. Take Part in a Temazcal Ceremony
Every once in a while, it’s good to have a nice sweat to cleanse your body of toxins. It’s even better when you can do it in an ancient Mayan ritual. That’s why you should put taking part in a temazcal ceremony high on your list of things to do in Oaxaca.
The best place to go in the city is Ceviarem Temazcal Oaxaca, but you’ll want to make sure to reserve a spot well ahead of time as they tend to fill up. This ancient ceremony is also one of the top things to do in Cancun and Cozumel, don’t miss it!
The cost of this ceremony varies, contact Ceviarem for details.
10. Go Hiking and Swimming at Hierve el Agua (Boiling Water)
When travelling in Oaxaca, a day trip out to Hierve el Agua is a must. Here you’ll see amazing rock formations that resemble cascading waterfalls. It’s a great place to spend half a day hiking and enjoying nature.
There are also natural mineral springs that you can soak in. While the name means “boiling water” in Spanish, the water can actually be a bit cold here. It’s still nice and refreshing to take a dip, especially after hiking around the area for a while.
Although it’s possible to get here on your own steam, in this case, tours make the journey much easier. Tours are usually a full day or half-day and include visits to other sites in the state of Oaxaca.
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If you’re looking for one of the best things to do in Oaxaca, this day trip is at the top of the list. Click here to learn more about this highly rated, small group experience which includes transportation, breakfast, and lunch.
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11. Check Out the Street Art Scene
There seems to be amazing street art everywhere in Mexico, and Oaxaca is no different. You’ll find murals all over the city, thanks in large part to the street art collective known as Lapiztola.
Their name is a combination of the Spanish words for pencil (lápiz) and pistol (pistola). Their goal is to use art as a weapon to spread social and political messages. Be sure to track down some of their work when you’re out looking for street art in Oaxaca.
12. Stroll On The Pedestrian-Only Street
When walking between the Zocalo and the Templo de Santo Domingo, you can use the pedestrian-friendly Calle Alcala. Strolling along this car-free street allows you to admire the colonial-era buildings, most of which are now home to galleries, cafes, artisan shops, and bars.
If you spend a few days in Oaxaca, chances are you’ll return to Calle Alcala at least a few times — the traffic in Oaxaca city can be relentless. It’s always nice to get away from the fumes of vehicles and just enjoy yourself on a walk around the city. Click here for directions.
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13. Feast on Local Food
Ask any Mexican what you should do in Oaxaca, and most will simply respond “Eat!” Indeed, Oaxaca is famous for its mouth-watering cuisine, and you’ll have to indulge your taste buds while you’re there.
Each region of Mexico has its own traditional cuisine on offer, and the same goes for Oaxaca State.
Perhaps the most quintessential local dish is tlayuda – a crispy, lightly fried tortilla covered with beans, meat, lettuce, avocado, salsa, and Oaxaca cheese (which is soft, white, and very stringy).
Side of the road food stalls are the best in Mexico
Mole sauce is also said to have originated right here in Oaxaca, so you’ll definitely have to make trying the different varieties (there are 7!) one of your top things to do in Oaxaca.
A great way to learn about the diverse food in Oaxaca is to join a food tour. There are a few, but this walking tour offers many food tastings, and drinks (including alcohol).
Your local guide Betsaida will share her love for Oaxaca through food, while sharing facts, stories and history about the city. This is one of the best things to do in Oaxaca for foodies. Learn more here.
Bonus! If you’re backpacking Mexico on a budget, you’ll be able to eat amazing food without breaking the bank.
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14. Take a Mexican Cooking Class
Since you’re going to enjoy eating the delicious cuisine of Oaxaca so much, why not learn how to make it at home?
There are numerous cooking classes available in the city, but this one is a great option! The cooking class is set in the local home, about 20 minutes from the center of Oaxaca (transportation is included). Sonia is the expert chef and her son Baldo is the bartender.
The cooking experience includes all food (including snacks), unlimited drinks (beer, mezcal, sodas, water, etc.), and lots of fun conversations throughout the day. Learn more about this highly rated trip here.
15. Day of the Dead Festivities
Do a Google search of “best places to celebrate Day of the Dead,” and Oaxaca is sure to turn up. The city is home to some of the most lively celebrations for Día de Muertos, which last from the end of October to early November.
Taking place October 31 – November 2, Day of the Dead is not a mournful festival, but rather a celebratory one. Locals visit the cemeteries to decorate the graves of loved ones and light candles, and there are very lively parades to watch in town.
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On top of the visits to cemeteries and parades, you’ll find colourful sand tapestries around the city, special foods for the occasion, unique alters, and more.
This is considered high season in Oaxaca, so make sure you book your accommodation well in advance. Learn more about the best time to visit Mexico in our in-depth post, here.
16. Eat All The Meat at the Mercado 20 de Noviembre
If you’re a carnivore, this is definitely the best place to visit in Oaxaca!
But, even if you’re a vegetarian, you can still find some foods you would enjoy as well. This meat hall is a very popular spot for locals and tourists alike. If you’re not sure where it is, just follow the grilled meat smell…
It’s a bit of an assembly line and getting your meal can seem incredibly confusing. Basically, you choose the vegetables that you want to be grilled and then take your tray to the “meat man” who will add proteins to your tray (try the thinly sliced beef, sausage or ribs).
The meat hallway! Just follow your nose…
You’ll receive a number, and until it’s called just sit down at one of the tables — shared seating style. Tortillas and condiments will come around for you to pick from.
This market is where the locals eat so you’ll be able to enjoy a cultural experience, and maybe make new friends over some BBQ. This is definitely one of the most hectic things to do in Oaxaca, but worth it!
Click here for directions to the Mercado 20 de Noviembre.
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17. Do a Mezcal Tasting
If you fancy an adult beverage from time to time, one of the best things to do in Oaxaca is a mezcal tasting.
This spirit is made from any type of agave plant, unlike tequila which can only be made from blue agave. Mezcal has a unique, smoky taste thanks to the underground roasting of the plant.
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Oaxaca is known to produce some of the best mezcal in the country, so pop into one of the countless mezcalerias and do a little tasting. Chances are you’ll like it so much you’ll want to pick up a bottle to bring back home.
For a fun, late afternoon / early evening experience, join this mezcal and mole tasting. Over the course of 90 minutes, you’ll taste 7 different mezcals and 7 different moles with a professional sommelier.
The setting for the pairing is a gorgeous tasting room with mountain views! This highly-rated experience is one of the best things to do in Oaxaca for friends, couples, and solo travellers. Find out more here.
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18. Visit the Ruins at Mitla
If you’re trying to see some more ruins on your trip, then you’ll want to take a trip out to Mitla. While Monte Alban was the political centre for the Zapotecs, Mitla was the religious centre.
Its name comes from the Nahuatl word meaning the place of the dead, or the underworld. Taking a trip out here should definitely be on your list of things to do in Oaxaca.
The ruins at Mitla are famed for the Column of Life located in one of the tombs.
It’s believed that if you wrap your arms around the column, the space between your hands represents how many years you have left on Earth. Try it if you dare, and if you can speak a little Spanish, you can ask for help.
Mitla can be combined with a trip to Hierve el Agua. Click here for details on that day trip.
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19. Check Out The Sunday Market
If you should find yourself in Oaxaca on a Sunday, be sure to head out to the massive market in nearby Tlacolula.
Vendors come from all over the valley to sell a wide variety of goods. It’s a great place to do some people watching, as most people wear the traditional clothes of their village.
Wandering around the market, you can pick up some fresh produce, try some yummy street food, grab a bottle of mezcal, and shop for artisan goods and crafts. It’s well worth the short trip out here to experience this vibrant market. Click here for directions.
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20. Enjoy a Hot Chocolate
In addition to mezcal, Oaxaca is famous for another drink — hot chocolate.
There are several cafes in the city where you can order a cup of sweet chocolatey goodness. You can also visit Mayordomo Chocolate to watch the chocolate being made and enjoy several free samples.
If you’re living in Oaxaca as a Digital Nomad, you’ll probably find yourself working at a cafe from time to time. This is one of the best cities for digital nomads for sure.
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21. Take a Tour with Fundacion en Via
If you want to support a great cause while you travel, sign up for a tour with Fundacion en Via. This non-profit organization uses funds from tours to empower women in the Tlacolula Valley by giving them interest-free loans and funding educational programs.
On their tours, you visit small communities just outside of the city to meet artisans and businesswomen.
You’ll learn a lot about their micro-finance program and the local culture as well. They have a few different tour options, including a special tour for Day of the Dead.
Now You Know What To Do in Oaxaca
After reading about all the incredible things to do in Oaxaca, I’m sure you’re ready to book your flight and check it out for yourself.
As you know by now, there’s plenty to do here to include it on your next trip to Mexico. Spend a few days taking in all that the city has to offer, then make your way to the coast to lounge on the beach in Puerto Escondido or Huatulco. Now that’s what I call a vacation!
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