Final Oaxaca Metropolis Journey Information: See, Do & Eat

For those who’re planning a visit and wish the last word mixture of what to see, do, and eat in Oaxaca Metropolis, this information is for you. I spent virtually a month exploring this well-liked Mexican metropolis and by the top, I used to be smitten (and possibly just a few 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 ideas that will help you plan your individual journey with ease. 

Planning Suggestions for Visiting Oaxaca Metropolis

Greatest Time to Go to

Regardless of once you go to, Oaxaca has lots to supply. I visited in February, and the climate was good—excessive 70s to low 80s through 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 well-liked festivals and a slight uptick in lodge costs, however the crowds by no means really feel overwhelming.

For those who’re searching for fewer vacationers and decrease costs, April and Could is perhaps your candy spot—although additionally they carry the most well liked 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 liable 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 might be overkill for most individuals. If you wish to absolutely expertise the historic heart, browse the bustling markets, bask in native delicacies, and take just a few day journeys to close by archaeological websites, I’d advocate spending round 4-5 days. This provides you sufficient time to soak within the tradition with out feeling rushed. That stated, in case you’re quick on time, you may 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.

➞ For those who solely have in the future observe my “Better of Oaxaca Metropolis” Self-Guided Strolling Tour

The best way to Get To Oaxaca Metropolis

Flying To Oaxaca Metropolis

Flying into Oaxaca Metropolis is simple, with most vacationers arriving at Xoxocotlán Worldwide Airport (OAX), positioned only a quick drive from town heart. Whereas there are some direct flights from main cities, most worldwide vacationers will join via Mexico Metropolis. To seek out the very best flight offers, I all the time verify 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 aircraft, you’ll undergo passport management (it took us about 10 minutes), then head to the one baggage declare space. Luggage 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, pink means your luggage get inspected. In fact, I bought pink. However don’t fear, the search was tremendous fast—possibly 5 minutes—after which I used to be on my means.

Airport Transportation 

When you step exterior the luggage space, look to the fitting for a small taxi sales space. They’ve fastened pricing for 2 totally different zones, and a journey to town heart prices about $25 per automobile. It was fast, simple, and inside 20 minutes, I used to be settling into my lodge.

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 well-liked utilizing the DiDi app, which works identical to Uber (since Oaxaca doesn’t have Uber). The very best half? No awkward haggling over costs (I hate that half!). Plus, you may select to pay with a bank card via the app or simply use money for every journey.

Language

English isn’t as broadly spoken in Oaxaca as it’s in greater 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 every single place with no points!

➞ Tip: Save your lodge handle 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 converse Spanish). It’s a pleasant option to break the ice whilst you fumble along with your translation app!

Foreign money

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

Exchanging Cash

Though the change charges aren’t the very best, I all the time get pesos from Financial institution of America earlier than leaving—it’s simply reassuring to have money in hand in case airport change cubicles are closed. That stated, Oaxaca’s airport does have an change sales space with first rate charges, and the taxi sales space on the airport takes bank cards. You’ll additionally discover loads of change cubicles across the metropolis in case you want more money.

Cash Withdrawal

For the bottom ATM charges, keep on with giant banks like Santander and Banamex. At all times use bank-affiliated ATMs (ideally ones connected to an precise financial institution) somewhat than free-standing ones, which are likely to have increased charges, safety dangers, and typically even dispense USD as an alternative of pesos. You may also 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 sometimes 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%
• Resorts: $2 per day for housekeeping

Security

Security is all the time 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 wherever on the planet, it’s good to follow common security habits—pay attention to your environment, keep away from flashing valuables, and keep on with well-lit areas at night time. Try this, and also you’ll possible really feel simply as comfy exploring Oaxaca as I did.

The place to Keep in Oaxaca

Oaxaca gives a variety of lodging, from boutique lodges within the coronary heart of town to charming Airbnbs good for teams. Take into account that many lodges don’t have elevators, so you might must navigate stairs. Listed here are just a few standout locations to remain:

Sauve Casa Boutique Lodge ($$)

Suave Casa Boutique Lodge is true within the coronary heart of town heart, and the place I stayed at first 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 workers are extremely pleasant and talk through WhatsApp to rearrange breakfast, airport transfers, and some other requests. The rooms are cozy, and in case you’re choosy about pillows, you’ll be completely satisfied to know that theirs are completely comfortable! Bonus: the toiletries scent wonderful.

Lodge Quinta Actual ($$$)

For a keep that’s each historic and splendid, Lodge Quinta Actual is tough to beat. Positioned simply 150 meters from Santo Domingo de Guzmán Church, this former Sixteenth-century convent (now a UNESCO World Heritage Website) blends colonial appeal with trendy comforts. The structure is totally breathtaking, and in case you’re fortunate, breakfast within the courtyard would possibly 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 trendy comforts. The rooftop terrace—with its plunge pool, leafy crops, and Mediterranean restaurant—is a real spotlight (good for sipping mezcal at sundown!). Household-owned for generations, Los Pilares gives a peaceable ambiance and heat hospitality, making it a great 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 move to hang around on their rooftop, and it was extremely peaceable. Whereas the pool is small, it’s an awesome spot to calm down, and their on-site restaurant serves implausible meals. This minimalist boutique lodge gives a tranquil escape proper within the metropolis heart.

Holt AirBNB ($$$)

For those who’re touring with a bunch, Holt Airbnb is a implausible choice simply south of town heart (a couple of 20-minute stroll). I stayed right here with six different individuals, and we had a tremendous time! The property options 4 spacious bedrooms with personal bogs (plus a fifth smaller bed room, good for a teen). The decor is trendy and trendy, and whereas there’s no pool, the new tub was an awesome perk.

For those who 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’d like extra, see my full listing: 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 outdated mates, sharing tales of her grandmother’s recipes as we sipped wealthy Oaxacan sizzling chocolate and sampled regional fruits (ever tried zapote negro or pineapple mango? So good!). 

From there, it was straight into cooking—suppose chileajo, chile relleno with hen picadillo, and never one however two salsas. Alongside the best way 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 possibly can e-book 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 one of the simplest ways). You’ll see the “Rudos” (dangerous guys) face off towards 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 optimum thrills—however be warned, wrestlers typically go flying into the gang!

For those who love the present, it’s custom to toss cash (or small payments) onto the mat to point out appreciation. Need somewhat additional enjoyable? Maintain a much bigger invoice near the ring and a wrestler would possibly come seize it personally (sure, I attempted it—and it was cool).

➞ Tip: Deliver additional money for souvenirs, snacks, and ideas for the wrestlers. Tickets are bought on the door, however the line will get lengthy—so plan to purchase prematurely on the area or present up just a few 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 large and completely value a go to. The backyard is dwelling to an unimaginable assortment of native Oaxacan crops, from towering cacti to uncommon bushes, and the one option to see it’s on a guided tour. Excursions run just a few instances 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 fantastic thing about the backyard speaks for itself. 

Store the Markets

For those who actually wish to absorb the center 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 supplying 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 the whole lot from tasajo to chorizo. Photographs typically present it crammed 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 edges—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 just a few issues. You’ll discover contemporary produce, piles of mole pastes, handmade pottery, furnishings, and just about anything you may think about. You would get misplaced right here for hours… and truthfully, I hope you do.

Benito Juárez Market
Positioned proper throughout the road from 20 de Noviembre, Benito Juárez is extra of a mixture. You’ll discover some meals stalls (together with considered one of my favourite spots for nieve—conventional Oaxacan ice cream!) however it leans towards souvenirs. Assume embroidered luggage, salsa bowls, keychains, and sure, even stay 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 Road Artwork Districts

For those who love road artwork, Oaxaca has two neighborhoods you may’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 crammed with colourful murals, cozy cafés, and artisan outlets. We joined a free strolling tour of Jalatlaco with Oaxaca by Locals—extremely advisable, since figuring out 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 would like a day journey from Oaxaca Metropolis with somewhat little bit of the whole lot—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 (carry water and solar safety!).

Subsequent up was Mitla, a Zapotec archaeological web site identified for intricate stonework and mosaic-like friezes, adopted by lunch at Restaurante Donaji—go for the contemporary 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!

➞ Ebook 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” type tour. We explored Central de Abastos, a large native market principally 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 completely satisfied.

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

Monte Albán Archaeological Website

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

Dwelling to the Olmecs, Zapotecs, and Mixtecs for over 1,500 years, the location is a must-visit for anybody inquisitive about Oaxaca’s unimaginable historical past.

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

➞ For extra tour suggestions try my 5 Prime Oaxaca Metropolis Excursions article.

The place to Eat

In case you are a foodie like me, then you might be positively going to wish to try my Final Meals Information to Oaxaca Metropolis, Mexico, which has all my favourite locations to eat. However, listed here are just a few 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 out there.

Boulenc for Brunch

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

The menu has one thing for everybody—contemporary breakfasts, hearty sandwiches, wood-fired pizzas, and extra drinks than you may depend. Highlights for us? A croissant full of jamón and quesillo topped with a poached egg, focaccia with mushrooms and cheese, and a stunning yogurt bowl with contemporary fruit. Simply the most effective 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 pink mole. We additionally cherished 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 very best pozole in Oaxaca—and it didn’t disappoint. The standard 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 contemporary herbs, all served with house-made tortillas. The house is attractive too, half restaurant, half artwork gallery, celebrating Oaxaca’s wealthy meals tradition.

Tacos del Carmen for Road Meals

Positioned on a busy nook in Oaxaca, Tacos del Carmen serves contemporary 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 just a few stools, a little bit of shade, and costs so low (underneath $2!) you’ll really feel such as you’re getting away with one thing.

Selva Cocktail Bar for Cocktails 

Perched on the second ground 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) by some means tastes like Oaxaca in a glass.

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