Final Oaxaca Metropolis Journey Information: See, Do & Eat

Should you’re planning a visit and need the final word mixture of what to see, do, and eat in Oaxaca Metropolis, this information is for you. I spent virtually a month exploring this widespread Mexican metropolis and by the tip, I used to be smitten (and perhaps a couple of kilos heavier from all of the mole). 

This information pulls collectively the perfect of what I found—what to see, what to do, and (most significantly!) what to eat—together with my private suggestions that will help you plan your individual journey with ease. 

Planning Ideas for Visiting Oaxaca Metropolis

Greatest Time to Go to

Irrespective of once you go to, Oaxaca has loads to supply. I visited in February, and the climate was excellent—excessive 70s to low 80s in the course of the day, then cooling right down to the excessive 50s to low 60s at night time. It was chilly sufficient within the evenings to wish a lightweight jacket. The excessive season runs from October to March, bringing cooler, dry climate with daytime highs round 80°F (27°C) and crisp nights. It’s additionally the busiest time of 12 months, with widespread festivals and a slight uptick in resort costs, however the crowds by no means really feel overwhelming.

Should you’re on the lookout for fewer vacationers and decrease costs, April and Could could be your candy spot—although additionally they deliver the most popular climate, with temps hovering into the 90s (32°C) and little rain to chill issues down. The wet season kicks in from June to October, bringing afternoon thunderstorms that hardly ever final all day, making it a good time to go to—particularly in July for the Guelaguetza Pageant. Simply make sure to pack an umbrella, as Oaxaca Metropolis is vulnerable to flooding throughout heavy rains.

How Many Days to Spend in Oaxaca Metropolis

I spent simply over three weeks in Oaxaca Metropolis and by no means as soon as felt bored—however let’s be actual, that may be overkill for most individuals. If you wish to absolutely expertise the historic middle, browse the bustling markets, take pleasure in native delicacies, and take a couple of day journeys to close by archaeological websites, I’d advocate spending round 4-5 days. This provides you adequate time to soak within the tradition with out feeling rushed. That mentioned, in case you’re brief on time, you possibly can nonetheless hit the highlights in 2-3 days by specializing in key spots like Santo Domingo Church, Mercado Benito Juárez, Monte Albán, and some unforgettable meals of mole and tlayudas.

➞ Should you solely have in the future comply with my “Better of Oaxaca Metropolis” Self-Guided Strolling Tour

Get To Oaxaca Metropolis

Flying To Oaxaca Metropolis

Flying into Oaxaca Metropolis is straightforward, with most vacationers arriving at Xoxocotlán Worldwide Airport (OAX), positioned only a brief drive from town middle. Whereas there are some direct flights from main cities, most worldwide vacationers will join by means of Mexico Metropolis. To search out the perfect flight offers, I at all times test Expedia, which helps you to evaluate costs throughout totally different airways and dates.

Airport Arrivals

Oaxaca’s airport is tiny, which makes arriving fairly simple. After getting off the airplane, you’ll undergo passport management (it took us about 10 minutes), then head to the only baggage declare space. Baggage took round quarter-hour to reach, after which comes the enjoyable half—everybody with baggage has to press a button. Inexperienced means you’re free to go, crimson means your luggage get inspected. In fact, I bought crimson. However don’t fear, the search was tremendous fast—perhaps 5 minutes—after which I used to be on my method.

Airport Transportation 

When you step outdoors the bags space, look to the precise for a small taxi sales space. They’ve fastened pricing for 2 totally different zones, and a trip to town middle prices about $25 per automobile. It was fast, simple, and inside 20 minutes, I used to be settling into my resort.

Issues to Know Earlier than Visiting Oaxaca Metropolis 

Getting Round

Taxis are simple to seek out in Oaxaca, however make sure to negotiate the fare earlier than hopping in. Personally, I most popular utilizing the DiDi app, which works identical to Uber (since Oaxaca doesn’t have Uber). The perfect half? No awkward haggling over costs (I hate that half!). Plus, you possibly can select to pay with a bank card by means of the app or simply use money for every trip.

Language

English isn’t as broadly spoken in Oaxaca as it’s in larger vacationer hotspots like Mazatlán. Most taxi drivers, servers, and store staff solely spoke Spanish, with little or no English, so in case you don’t know a lot Spanish, having an app like Google Translate is a lifesaver—I used it in all places with no points!

➞ Tip: Save your resort deal with in your cellphone to point out taxi drivers, and it helps to know a easy phrase like “Lo siento. No hablo español” (I’m sorry, I don’t communicate Spanish). It’s a pleasant solution to break the ice whilst you fumble together with your translation app!

Foreign money

The Mexican peso (MXN) is the official foreign money in Oaxaca, and USD just isn’t accepted anyplace, so that you’ll want pesos readily available. Most eating places and retailers take bank cards with out difficulty, however you’ll want money for tipping, avenue meals, markets, and public restrooms (which often value 7-12 pesos—so preserve some cash useful!). Breaking 500 or 1000 peso payments generally is a problem, so when exchanging cash, ask for smaller denominations.

Exchanging Cash

Regardless that the alternate charges aren’t the perfect, I at all times get pesos from Financial institution of America earlier than leaving—it’s simply reassuring to have money in hand in case airport alternate cubicles are closed. That mentioned, Oaxaca’s airport does have an alternate sales space with first rate charges, and the taxi sales space on the airport takes bank cards. You’ll additionally discover loads of alternate cubicles across the metropolis in case you want extra cash.

Cash Withdrawal

For the bottom ATM charges, follow giant banks like Santander and Banamex. At all times use bank-affiliated ATMs (ideally ones hooked up to an precise financial institution) somewhat than free-standing ones, which are inclined to have greater charges, safety dangers, and generally even dispense USD as an alternative of pesos. You too can often discover ATMs at bus stations and bigger grocery shops like Chedraui, Mega, and Soriana.

Tipping 

Tipping is widespread in Oaxaca Metropolis (and a good way to say gracias), however the percentages are decrease than within the U.S. Most restaurant tip choices begin at 10%, although I often noticed some as little as 5%.

Right here’s what I tipped:

• Eating places: 10%
• Tour Guides: $5 per particular person for 1-2 hour excursions, $10 per particular person for excursions over 2 hours
• Taxis: 5-10%
• Lodges: $2 per day for housekeeping

Security

Security is at all times high of thoughts when touring, and I do know it may be a giant concern in case you’re visiting Oaxaca Metropolis for the primary time. From my expertise, I by no means as soon as felt unsafe throughout my total time there. Like anyplace on the planet, it’s good to follow common security habits—pay attention to your environment, keep away from flashing valuables, and follow well-lit areas at night time. Do this, and also you’ll doubtless really feel simply as comfy exploring Oaxaca as I did.

The place to Keep in Oaxaca

Oaxaca provides a variety of lodging, from boutique motels within the coronary heart of town to charming Airbnbs excellent for teams. Take into account that many motels don’t have elevators, so chances are you’ll must navigate stairs. Listed here are a couple of standout locations to remain:

Sauve Casa Boutique Lodge ($$)

Suave Casa Boutique Lodge is true within the coronary heart of town middle, and the place I stayed originally and finish of my journey. It’s positioned inside strolling distance of Santo Domingo, the Zócalo, and Jalatlaco which makes exploring town a breeze. 

The hospitality right here is top-notch—the employees are extremely pleasant and talk by way of WhatsApp to rearrange breakfast, airport transfers, and another requests. The rooms are cozy, and in case you’re choosy about pillows, you’ll be comfortable to know that theirs are completely smooth! Bonus: the toiletries scent wonderful.

Lodge Quinta Actual ($$$)

For a keep that’s each historic and opulent, Lodge Quinta Actual is difficult to beat. Positioned simply 150 meters from Santo Domingo de Guzmán Church, this former Sixteenth-century convent (now a UNESCO World Heritage Web site) blends colonial attraction with fashionable comforts. The structure is totally breathtaking, and in case you’re fortunate, breakfast within the courtyard may even include a mariachi serenade.

Los Pilares Lodge ($$)

Los Pilares Lodge is a boutique retreat in Oaxaca’s charming Jalatlaco neighborhood. Housed in a restored Seventeenth-century colonial dwelling, it blends historic particulars with fashionable comforts. The rooftop terrace—with its plunge pool, leafy crops, and Mediterranean restaurant—is a real spotlight (excellent for sipping mezcal at sundown!). Household-owned for generations, Los Pilares provides a peaceable environment and heat hospitality, making it a perfect escape from the bustle of downtown.

Lodge Sin Nombre ($$)

Even in case you’re not staying right here, Lodge Sin Nombre is value a go to. I purchased a day cross to hang around on their rooftop, and it was extremely peaceable. Whereas the pool is small, it’s an ideal spot to loosen up, and their on-site restaurant serves incredible meals. This minimalist boutique resort provides a tranquil escape proper within the metropolis middle.

Holt AirBNB ($$$)

Should you’re touring with a bunch, Holt Airbnb is a incredible choice simply south of town middle (a few 20-minute stroll). I stayed right here with six different folks, and we had an incredible time! The property options 4 spacious bedrooms with non-public loos (plus a fifth smaller bed room, excellent for a teen). The decor is fashionable and trendy, and whereas there’s no pool, the recent tub was an ideal perk.

Should you don’t really feel like heading into city for meals, Mahawa Restaurant is true on the nook and serves scrumptious meals in a relaxed setting.

Prime Issues to Do in Oaxaca de Juárez

That is only a snippet of what town has to supply, if you need extra, see my full record: 14 Greatest Issues to Do in Oaxaca Metropolis, Mexico.

Take a Cooking Class at Dos Corazones

This was hands-down considered one of my favourite experiences in Oaxaca. Chef Aubrey welcomed us into her dwelling like previous associates, sharing tales of her grandmother’s recipes as we sipped wealthy Oaxacan scorching chocolate and sampled regional fruits (ever tried zapote negro or pineapple mango? So good!). 

From there, it was straight into cooking—assume chileajo, chile relleno with rooster picadillo, and never one however two salsas. Alongside the way in which we snacked, laughed, and sipped mezcal and beer, all whereas Aubrey and her husband made us really feel like a part of their household.

➞ You’ll be able to guide the precise class I took right here: Conventional Oaxaqueña Cooking with Grandma’s Recipes

See Lucha Libre at Enviornment Oaxaca

Each Sunday at 6:30 PM, Enviornment Oaxaca comes alive with Lucha Libre—Mexico’s iconic mixture of wrestling, theater, and pure chaos (in the easiest way). You’ll see the “Rudos” (unhealthy guys) face off in opposition to the “Técnicos” (good guys) in 5 matches of three rounds every, with the motion getting wilder because the night time goes on. Sit within the entrance row for max thrills—however be warned, wrestlers usually go flying into the gang!

Should you love the present, it’s custom to toss cash (or small payments) onto the mat to point out appreciation. Need just a little further enjoyable? Maintain an even bigger invoice near the ring and a wrestler may come seize it personally (sure, I attempted it—and it was cool).

➞ Tip: Carry further money for souvenirs, snacks, and suggestions for the wrestlers. Tickets are bought on the door, however the line will get lengthy—so plan to purchase upfront on the area or present up a couple of hours early like we did to snag a spot with out the wait.

Go to Jardín Etnobotánico

Don’t let the small peek you get from the road idiot you—Oaxaca’s Jardín Etnobotánico is big and completely value a go to. The backyard is dwelling to an unbelievable assortment of native Oaxacan crops, from towering cacti to uncommon bushes, and the one solution to see it’s on a guided tour. Excursions run a couple of occasions a day, value simply 50 pesos, and final about an hour. 

They’re solely in Spanish, however don’t let that cease you—there’s often somebody within the group who interprets, and the great thing about the backyard speaks for itself. 

Store the Markets

Should you actually wish to absorb the guts and soul of Oaxaca, head straight to the markets. There are three main ones within the metropolis, and every has its personal vibe—so sure, I’m formally providing you with permission to go to all of them.

20 de Noviembre Market
This one’s most well-known for the Pasillo de Humo (“Smoke Corridor”), a hall lined with distributors grilling every part from tasajo to chorizo. Pictures usually present it stuffed with dramatic plumes of smoke, however full disclosure: it wasn’t that smoky on my visits (I truly discovered Central de Abastos smokier and extra atmospheric). Nonetheless, that is the place to dive into conventional Oaxacan eats. Seize a seat, order your meat to be grilled proper there, and cargo up on the perimeters—don’t skip the grilled onions and salsas!

Central de Abastos de Oaxaca
Large, bustling, and much much less touristy, that is the place locals actually store. I first got here right here on a gastronomy tour with Etnofood (extremely advocate!) and later returned simply to wander and purchase a couple of issues. You’ll discover recent produce, piles of mole pastes, handmade pottery, furnishings, and just about anything you possibly can think about. You would get misplaced right here for hours… and actually, I hope you do.

Benito Juárez Market
Positioned proper throughout the road from 20 de Noviembre, Benito Juárez is extra of a combination. You’ll discover some meals stalls (together with considered one of my favourite spots for nieve—conventional Oaxacan ice cream!) but it surely leans towards souvenirs. Assume embroidered luggage, salsa bowls, keychains, and sure, even reside animals. I snagged a woven market tote for $10, handmade salsa bowls for $2 every, and even a knockoff of my favourite fragrance for $7 an oz..

Wander By the Avenue Artwork Districts

Should you love avenue artwork, Oaxaca has two neighborhoods you possibly can’t miss: Barrio de Jalatlaco and Xochimilco. Each are walkable (Jalatlaco is flat and straightforward, whereas Xochimilco has a little bit of an incline) and stuffed with colourful murals, cozy cafés, and artisan retailers. We joined a free strolling tour of Jalatlaco with Oaxaca by Locals—extremely advisable, since realizing the tales behind the artwork makes it much more significant. For Xochimilco, we merely adopted a self-guided map, and it was tremendous simple (and enjoyable!) to discover.

Greatest Excursions to Take

Hierve el Agua, Mitla, Mezcal & Extra

If you’d like a day journey from Oaxaca Metropolis with just a little little bit of every part—nature, ruins, mezcal, and wonderful meals—this full-day tour delivers. We began at El Tule, dwelling to one of many widest bushes on the planet, then headed to Hierve el Agua, the place chilly spring swimming pools and petrified waterfalls make for jaw-dropping views (deliver water and solar safety!).

Subsequent up was Mitla, a Zapotec archaeological web site recognized for intricate stonework and mosaic-like friezes, adopted by lunch at Restaurante Donaji—go for the recent native dishes like memelas and tlayudas. The day wrapped with a private mezcal tasting at Bitao Palenque and a go to to a textile workshop, the place we noticed conventional rug-making in motion. It was a protracted day (about 12 hours) however completely value it!

➞ Guide the identical tour I took: Hierve el Agua Guided Full-Day Tour

Oaxaca Market & Meals Tour

Palms-down considered one of my favourite experiences in Oaxaca, the Etnofood Oaxaca Market & Meals Tour goes far past the same old “right here’s-a-taco” fashion tour. We explored Central de Abastos, a large native market largely untouched by vacationers—mainly Oaxaca’s backstage kitchen. What made it unforgettable was the storytelling: each dish got here with historical past, goal, and taste that made your style buds (and your mind!) very comfortable.

➞ Guide the identical tour right here: Immersion Tour and Oaxaca Markets

Monte Albán Archaeological Web site

Simply 25 minutes from Oaxaca Metropolis, Monte Albán is sort of a historical past guide come to life—with wonderful views and historical pyramids, terraces, and temples. I did a half-day guided tour by means of Viator, which gave sufficient time to discover with out melting within the solar. 

Residence to the Olmecs, Zapotecs, and Mixtecs for over 1,500 years, the location is a must-visit for anybody interested in Oaxaca’s unbelievable historical past.

➞ Guide the identical tour I took: Monte Albán Guided Half-Day Tour

➞ For extra tour suggestions take a look at my 5 Prime Oaxaca Metropolis Excursions article.

The place to Eat

If you’re a foodie like me, then you’re positively going to wish to take a look at my Final Meals Information to Oaxaca Metropolis, Mexico, which has all my favourite locations to eat. However, listed below are a couple of to not miss:

Bodaega for Pastries

Palms down my favourite pastry spot in all of Oaxaca Metropolis—and sure, I did the analysis! The pastries are virtually too fairly to eat… virtually. Don’t miss the morning bun with jamón serrano (savory, buttery perfection) or the rhubarb compote Danish with hibiscus if it’s accessible.

Boulenc for Brunch

Boulenc is the go-to breakfast spot in Oaxaca Metropolis, and for good purpose. With two café areas and a bakery close by, I made it my mission to strive all of them (analysis, after all!). 

The menu has one thing for everybody—recent breakfasts, hearty sandwiches, wood-fired pizzas, and extra drinks than you possibly can depend. Highlights for us? A croissant full of jamón and quesillo topped with a poached egg, focaccia with mushrooms and cheese, and a beautiful yogurt bowl with recent fruit. Simply top-of-the-line breakfasts on the town!

Las Quince Letras for Lunch

Mole is the star right here—particularly the smoky, wealthy mole negro, which barely wants anything. Don’t miss the molotes de plátano, crispy fried plantains full of savory meat and topped with candy crimson mole. We additionally liked the garnachas istmeñas piled with shredded beef and pickled cabbage, the comforting sopa de guías with tlayuda and tasajo, and for one thing hearty, the tasajo a la oaxaqueña with mole enchiladas and melted quesillo is a should.

Casa Mook for Dinner

We discovered Casa Mook on a mission for the perfect pozole in Oaxaca—and it didn’t disappoint. The normal pozole was so good, I needed to return earlier than leaving city! Past that, the menu is stuffed with Oaxacan staples, from memelas with asiento, beans, and cheese to dishes with huitlacoche, squash blossoms, and recent herbs, all served with house-made tortillas. The area is beautiful too, half restaurant, half artwork gallery, celebrating Oaxaca’s wealthy meals tradition.

Tacos del Carmen for Avenue Meals

Positioned on a busy nook in Oaxaca, Tacos del Carmen serves recent corn masa tortillas cooked over a coal-fired comal proper in entrance of you. Organize them as tacos or quesadillas—the fillings vary from gooey quesillo and earthy mushrooms to spicy tinga and my favourite, chile relleno. It’s tremendous informal, with a couple of stools, a little bit of shade, and costs so low (below $2!) you’ll really feel such as you’re getting away with one thing.

Selva Cocktail Bar for Cocktails 

Perched on the second flooring with views of Santo Domingo, Selva is the proper spot for a pre-dinner cocktail—particularly in case you’re eating at Los Danzantes downstairs. The vibe is mid-century cool meets Oaxacan soul, with lush crops, heat lighting, and inventive touches. Cocktails spotlight native flavors, and the signature Selva (mezcal, hoja santa, chile liqueur, basil, and extra) in some way tastes like Oaxaca in a glass.

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