Looking for the absolute best things to do in Oaxaca City? I come here twice a year here are my recommendations!

Ever heard of Oaxaca from your friends? It’s a constant recommendation, isn’t it? It is truly one of the best cities to visit in Mexico and an incredibly unique destination especially if your image of a Mexican vacation is all about resorts.

Oaxaca is all about Mexican culture known for its rich traditions, indigenous heritage, art, and architecture. So far, it is one of the Mexican states where you can still see local life. Unlike other destinations, it’s a vacation option when you don’t feel like you didn’t leave the United States.

I come to Oaxaca twice a year during day of the dead and in the spring season because I can’t get enough of Oaxaca! And even if I visit quite frequently, there are still many things to do in Oaxaca that I have yet to discover.

In this article, you will see all my top recommendations of things to do in Oaxaca City that come with a map. You can also watch some videos of my experiences in each activity.

If you ever push through, see all my free resources about traveling to Oaxaca and you will get a lot of tips for traveling in one of my favorite cities in the world! Here are the best things to do in Oaxaca including activities for families with kids. Let me know if you have any questions by leaving a comment at the bottom of this article. Enjoy your trip!

1. Spend 5 days in Oaxaca

If you are short on time, 5 days are enough in Oaxaca. With a 5-day Oaxaca itinerary, you will already cover all the must-visit landmarks and experience Oaxacan hospitality. You can also combine this itinerary with Mexico City. These 2 cities are the most visited in Mexico and are easy to navigate as a 10-day trip.

Use this Oaxaca hotels map to see the best accommodations in safe areas in Oaxaca City! You can easily spot the prices of hotels, hostels, and vacation rentals by hovering on the map.

🗺️ VIEW MAP

2. Join the Oaxaca Day of the Dead festivities

If you are already traveling to Oaxaca, time your visit during the Day of the Dead as this is one of the top things to do in Oaxaca that offers a unique experience.

Oaxaca’s Day of the Dead festivities are famous for their elaborate decorations, including altars (“ofrendas“) adorned with marigolds, candles, food, and items cherished by the departed. The streets come alive with parades, music, and performances.

✅ CHECK PRICES FOR DAY OF THE DEAD TRIPS →

3. Eat your way through the markets

Markets should be on top of your list of things to do in Oaxaca! They offer a vibrant glimpse into local life and traditions. They are bustling centers of culture where you can experience the daily rhythms and customs of the city.

The state of Oaxaca is renowned for its cuisine, and the markets are the best places to try local specialties. You can sample a variety of traditional foods, such as tamales, mole, Oaxacan cheese (quesillo), and the famous chapulines (fried grasshoppers).

4. Visit Oaxaca’s Ethnobotanical Garden

The Oaxaca Ethnobotanical Garden is one of the lesser-known things to do in Oaxaca City. It hosts an impressive array of plants native to Oaxaca, which is one of the most biologically diverse regions in Mexico.

You can only visit on a guided tour, and you have to fall in line to get in. They do not accept reservations but rather on a first-come-first-serve basis. The entrance fee costs 100 pesos ($6 approx) for English, French, and German tours. Spanish tours are half-priced.

🌵 Tip: If the English tour is full, join the German tour as there are fewer tourists. Even if you don’t understand German, you’ll still get to see the garden! (FYI, I did this!)

5. Explore Oaxaca City on foot

Oaxaca City is a walkable city, and exploring it on foot is one of the must things to do in Oaxaca City! It’s a wonderful way to immerse yourself in its vibrant atmosphere and discover its many treasures.

The heart of Oaxaca is its historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Walking through its streets, you can admire colonial-era buildings, charming plazas, and colorful facades. Key sites include the Santo Domingo Church, the Cathedral of Oaxaca, and the Zócalo (main square).

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6. Attend a textile workshop in Teotitlan: best cultural things to do in Oaxaca

Teotitlán del Valle is renowned for its centuries-old tradition of weaving textiles, particularly rugs, using handlooms. These techniques have been passed down through generations, preserving a significant aspect of Zapotec culture.

You’ll gain insight into the entire process of textile creation, from carding and spinning wool to dyeing it with natural dyes sourced from local plants, minerals, and even insects (like the cochineal for red dyes), and finally, the weaving.

This is one of the most unique things to do in Oaxaca that supports local communities so make sure to add this to your list!

✅ BOOK OAXACA TEXTILE EXPERIENCE →

7. Hike through Hierve El Agua: must-do activity in Oaxaca

Hierve el Agua is famous for its stunning petrified waterfalls, a rare natural phenomenon. These rock formations, created by mineral-rich water trickling down the cliffs over thousands of years, are a spectacular sight.

There are natural mineral pools at the top of the cliffs where you can swim. The pools offer a unique swimming experience with incredible views over the surrounding mountains and valleys. There are several hiking trails around Hierve el Agua, ranging from easy walks to more challenging hikes. These trails provide different perspectives of the petrified waterfalls and the beautiful landscape of the area.

This is one of the best things to do in Oaxaca if you are adventurous and at the same time, wants to escape the hustle of the city. Actually, you shouldn’t skip this activity!

✅ BOOK PRIVATE HIERVE EL AGUA TOUR →

8. Visit Oaxaca during Guelaguetza

The Guelaguetza is a significant cultural event in Oaxaca, showcasing the diverse traditions, dances, music, and attire of the various indigenous groups from the different regions of Oaxaca. It’s a unique opportunity to witness a wide array of cultural expressions in one place.

The festival features incredible performances of traditional dances and music by local groups. Each performance is a display of intricate choreography, colorful costumes, and lively music, reflecting the history and traditions of their respective communities.

🪭 Tip: Guelaguetza is during the month of July which is low season in Oaxaca (and in Mexico). You can get a lot of deals from great accommodations in Oaxaca! But note that this is also the rainy season.

9. Wander in 17+ museums in Oaxaca

Oaxaca is known for its rich cultural heritage, and its museums offer deep insights into the region’s diverse and vibrant history. Whether you’re a history buff, art lover, or casual tourist, one of the best things to do in Oaxaca City is to visit the museums.

They are often housed in beautifully restored buildings, and offer not only fascinating exhibits but also stunning architecture, making them ideal spots for photography.

10. Put your Catrina make-up on!

La Catrina is an iconic figure in Mexican culture, especially during Día de los Muertos. By participating in this tradition, you’re immersing yourself in Mexican culture and experiencing a centuries-old tradition that celebrates and honors the deceased.

Catrina makeup is visually striking, making it great for photography and memorable photos of your time in Oaxaca. This is ultimately one of the most unique things to do in Oaxaca that captures the essence of your cultural experience.

If you are not visiting Oaxaca during day of the dead, you can still do the Catrina make-up experience and take pictures around the city, just for fun!

✅ CHECK PRICES FOR CATRINA MAKE-UP EXPERIENCE →

11. Explore the Jalatlaco and Xochimilco neighborhoods

Jalatlaco was once a village of tanners and artisans, and its history is reflected in its architecture and local traditions. Xochimilco, with its pre-Hispanic roots, showcases a different aspect of Oaxaca’s rich cultural tapestry.

The streets of Jalatlaco are adorned with beautiful murals and street art that reflect the local culture and contemporary social issues. These artworks offer a visual feast and great photographic opportunities.

Compared to the bustling city center, Jalatlaco and Xochimilco offer a more tranquil, laid-back atmosphere. If you are looking for non-touristy things to do in Oaxaca, this area is away from the typical tourist crowds.

12. Learn how to make alebrijes

Alebrijes are brightly colored Mexican folk art sculptures of fantastical creatures, and these workshops offer a unique glimpse into this captivating art form. They are a significant part of Mexican folk art, and attending a workshop offers a deep insight into this cultural tradition. You’ll learn about the history, symbolism, and significance of alebrijes in Mexican culture.

Traveling with kids? The alebrije workshop is one of the best things to do in Oaxaca for families! By attending a workshop, you are directly supporting local artisans and their craft. This kind of responsible tourism helps to sustain traditional arts and provides economic benefits to the community.

✅ BOOK ALEBRIJES WORKSHOP →

13. Visit a traditional palenque for mezcal

A palenque is where mezcal, a traditional Mexican spirit, is produced. Visiting one offers an up-close look at the mezcal-making process, from the harvesting of agave plants to the distillation process. This hands-on experience provides a deeper understanding of this complex and artisanal process.

Mezcal tastings allow you to sample different types of mezcal, which can vary greatly in flavor depending on the type of agave used, the production process, and the region it comes from. It’s an excellent opportunity to develop an appreciation for the nuances of this unique spirit. Unlike commercial mezcals, the mezcals produced in small-scale palenques often aren’t available widely.

This means you’ll have the opportunity to taste unique mezcals that you might not find elsewhere.

14. Do a mezcal tasting with mole pairing

Mezcal and mole are both quintessential elements of Oaxacan cuisine, each with a rich history and complexity of flavors. You’ll learn about the different types of agave used, production methods, and how these factors influence the flavor profiles of mezcal.

Oaxaca is known as the “land of seven moles,” each with distinct flavors and ingredients. A mole pairing introduces you to these varieties, showcasing the depth and versatility of this celebrated sauce. If you don’t have time to visit a palenque, you can still experience one of the most incredible things to do in Oaxaca without leaving the city!

✅ BOOK OAXACA MEZCAL TASTING →

15. Discover the Zapotec culture of Oaxaca

The Zapotecs are one of the earliest civilizations in Mesoamerica, with a history that dates back over 2,000 years. Learning about their culture, achievements, and legacy offers insight into the pre-Columbian history of Mexico.

Oaxaca is home to several important Zapotec archaeological sites, including Monte Albán and Mitla. These sites, with their pyramids, tombs, and intricate stone carvings, are testaments to the architectural and astronomical prowess of the Zapotec civilization.

Visiting Zapotec communities is one of the best cultural things to do in Oaxaca. It offers a chance to see how traditional practices and modern life coexist.

16. Visit El Tule and Mitla

Tule and Mitla are some of my favorite things to do in Oaxaca. I’ve been here many times and I still keep visiting!

The main attraction in Tule is the famous El Arbol del Tule, one of the largest and oldest trees in the world. This massive Montezuma cypress is estimated to be over 2,000 years old and is revered for its immense size and the intricate shapes that can be seen in its trunk.

Mitla is known for its unique archaeological site, which was an important religious and ceremonial center for the Zapotec and Mixtec cultures. Unlike other ruins in Mexico, Mitla is famous for its intricate geometric mosaics, which adorn the walls and structures.

Tip: You can combine Tule and Mitla with a visit to Hierve El Agua as they are close to each other!

17. Go to the Monte Alban Archaeological Site

Located on a mountaintop with sweeping views of the Oaxaca Valley, Monte Alban offers stunning vistas. The strategic location chosen for its construction provides insight into the strategic and ceremonial importance of the site.

The site boasts impressive architectural achievements, including pyramids, temples, plazas, and an observatory. The grandeur and complexity of these structures are a testament to the advanced urban planning and architectural skills of the Zapotecs.

Monte Alban is easily accessible from Oaxaca City, making it a convenient day trip for travelers (26 min by car). The minimum recommended time to explore is 2 hours.

✅ BOOK MONTE ALBAN TOUR →

18. Explore the nightlife in Oaxaca

Oaxaca City has a vibrant nightlife, offering a variety of experiences that cater to different tastes and preferences. The city’s nightlife is known for its laid-back, culturally rich atmosphere rather than high-intensity clubbing scenes typical of larger cities.

I understand that clubbing may not be part of your things to do in Oaxaca list but there are many other things to explore at night. Oaxaca’s culinary scene comes alive after dark, with restaurants and cafes serving a range of local and international cuisines. If you get hungry in the middle of the night, there will be food on the streets until 5 AM!

19. Hike Sierra Juarez

The Sierra Juárez is one of the lesser-known things to do in Oaxaca. It is known for its stunning landscapes, including lush forests, rugged mountains, and scenic valleys. The area offers a chance to experience some of the most beautiful and untouched natural scenery in Mexico.

This region is a biodiversity hotspot, home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, some of which are endemic to the area. Hikers can witness a range of ecosystems and potentially spot unique wildlife. The area offers a variety of trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes, catering to different skill levels and preferences. Some trails lead to beautiful viewpoints, waterfalls, and remote villages.

20. Eat in all the street food stalls

You can’t say you’ve been to Oaxaca without trying street food so add these to your things to do in Oaxaca City list! Oaxaca’s street food scene offers a wide array of dishes, many of which are unique to the region and reflect the area’s rich culinary heritage.

Food is a significant part of Oaxacan culture as you can see in many shows on Netflix. Oaxaca is always the star of Mexican cuisine!

My friend Victor is a local in Oaxaca and has this super affordable street food tour in Oaxaca! He will show you around his favorite places, most of it, you won’t find on the internet!

21. Enter the carne asada hall (pasillo de humo)

The Carne Asada Hall in Oaxaca, often referred to as a part of the Mercado 20 de Noviembre, is a famous food section within this bustling market, celebrated for its authentic Oaxacan grilled meat experience. The hall is lined with numerous stalls grilling various meats, including beef, pork, chorizo, and chicken. The aroma of the grilling meat is a significant part of the experience.

You typically choose your meat from a vendor, who then grills it to order. You can often select accompanying items like tortillas, salsas, grilled vegetables (such as onions and peppers), and other traditional sides. The food here is generally affordable and the portions are generous, making it a popular choice for a filling and flavorful meal. Actually, the plates are very big so it’s good for sharing.

Tip: Mind you, if you stay long, you will smell like the barbecue smoke. Some of my friends didn’t like this so if you are the same, just go for a quick stroll to see the barbecue show!

22. Attend a black pottery workshop: most unique things to do in Oaxaca

One of the best cultural things to do in Oaxaca is to attend a black pottery workshop. Black pottery is a traditional Zapotec and Mixtec art that has been passed down through generations. Learning about this craft offers insight into the rich cultural heritage of Oaxaca.

Many workshops offer a hands-on experience where you can try making your own pottery. This practical experience is not only enjoyable but also gives you a deeper appreciation for the skill and effort that goes into each piece.

By participating in a workshop, you’re supporting local artisans and helping to keep traditional crafts alive. Many of these artisans are from families that have been involved in pottery making for generations.

23. Learn about Oaxaca’s chocolate and cacao culture

Oaxaca has a rich tradition in cacao and chocolate, integral to its culinary and cultural heritage. Cacao has deep historical and cultural roots in Mexico. A workshop can provide insights into its traditional importance and how it has been used over centuries.

Workshops often take you through the entire chocolate-making process, from roasting cacao beans to grinding them and turning them into chocolate. This hands-on experience offers a deeper understanding and appreciation of chocolate.

24. Discover Oaxaca’s most popular dish: mole

Like I said, mole is an acquired taste but if you are adventurous with food, I really recommend you give mole a shot!

Oaxaca is famous for its variety of moles, each with its own distinct character. Common types include Mole Negro, Mole Rojo, Mole Amarillo, Mole Verde, and more. Mole is typically served with meat, rice, and tortillas. Tasting different moles with various dishes can enhance your understanding of pairing and how mole complements different foods.

Oaxaca is famous for its variety of moles, each with its own distinct character. Common types include Mole Negro, Mole Rojo, Mole Amarillo, Mole Verde, and more. Mole is typically served with meat, rice, and tortillas. Tasting different moles with various dishes can enhance your understanding of pairing and how mole complements different foods.

25. Go to a traditional Oaxacan cooking class

Oaxaca is famous for its unique and diverse culinary traditions, including dishes like mole, tlayudas, and various types of tamales. A cooking class offers the opportunity to learn these recipes from local chefs or cooks.

Cooking classes are typically hands-on, allowing you to actively participate in the preparation of dishes. This hands-on approach is a great way to learn cooking techniques that you can replicate at home. My friend Baldo hosts the coolest traditional cooking class in Oaxaca. He will also show you their organic garden where you will get all the ingredients for the cooking class!

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