Oaxaca City has a wealth of things to see and do, plus some world famous cuisine, coffee shops, museums, markets and bars.
Oaxacan cuisine is some of Mexico’s best and you can’t afford to miss out while you’re in the capital city. If you can only try out a few dishes, make sure they include at least one of its traditional specialties. Tlayudas are also known as Mexican Pizzas because they’re large, crispy tortillas topped with beans, cheese, avocado and meats of your choice! The same goes for Oaxacan mole, chapulines (grasshoppers), tasajo (dried beef) and tamales Oaxaqueños.
Oaxaca is one of Mexico’s primary coffee producing states and you can’t forget to café hop while you’re passing through. All down the city’s principal pedestrianized street, Calle Alcalá, there are numerous spots you can try your luck at and taste test the best blends, although if you want to plan ahead, don’t miss Nuevo Mundo, Café El Volador or the legendary Café Brújula.
Nuevo Mundo, M. Bravo 206, Ruta Independencia, Centro, Oaxaca, México Café El Volador, Xolotl 118, Centro, Oaxaca, México Café Brújula, Calle Macedonio Alcalá 104, Ruta Independencia, Centro, Oaxaca, México
It’s not all about the food in Oaxaca. The city is known for its mezcal and if you have time, pay a visit to one of the nearby mezcal factories where you can learn more about the process. Alternatively, stop by one of the city’s mezcalerías instead, and taste test the drink some regard as the cooler cousin of tequila. Los Amantes and In Situ are widely regarded as some of Oaxaca’s best mezcalerías. Los Amantes, Allende 107, Centro Histórico, Oaxaca, México In Situ, José María Morelos 511, Centro, Oaxaca, México
Oaxaca City is a haven for those who love meandering through a good market, whether that be a food market or one that sells traditional artisanal products and clothing. You can head to one of the city’s permanent markets, such as the Benito Juarez Market in the center, or keep your eyes peeled for the roaming street tianguis. Be sure to pick up a packet of freshly ground Oaxacan coffee to take home with you as a souvenir. Mercado de Benito Juárez, Miguel Cabrera S/N, Centro, Oaxaca, México
Oaxaca City was built for the over centuries; winding streets take you high up above the center with views over the Oaxacan valley and cobbled paths lead you to cafés you wouldn’t ordinarily have found in a million years. The multi-colored façades of many of Oaxaca City’s houses and structures only add to this small-town charm in what is actually the state capital. Wandering through the historic center of Oaxaca is undoubtedly one of the must-do things for any visitor. Just start at the zócalo and follow the breeze!
If you want a break from exploring the city, then you must stop by Parque Llano. An open public space, there are trees, fountains and quaint walkways making it the perfect place to go with a friend, drink coffee or read a book. It’s always busy and you’re sure to get a glimpse into everyday life for Oaxacan’s in the capital city; if you enjoy watching the local culture, you might even find it tough to leave.
You’d be hard pressed to visit Oaxaca and not stop by the Museo de las Culturas at least once, given that it’s located next to the famed Templo de Santo Domingo in a 17th century converted monastery. This is a don’t miss and does have some cool exhibits, you should check it out for the location if nothing else; huge open windows frame the surrounding Ethnobotanical Garden, providing some literally picture perfect views. Museo de Las Culturas de Oaxaca, Macedonio Alcalá S/N, Centro, Oaxaca de Juárez, Oaxaca, México
The art scene in Oaxaca is definitely one of the things you must see. While Mexico City takes the title for the most museums, Oaxaca is renowned when it comes to art galleries. From smaller independent ones that you can slip in and out of as you wander the winding cobbled stone streets of the city to the larger more famous ones that display pieces from famous artists. Check out MACO, as well as the Museo Textil de Oaxaca. MACO, Calle Macedonio Alcalá 202, Centro, Oaxaca, México Museo Textil de Oaxaca, Hidalgo 917, Centro Histórico, Oaxaca, México
The Templo de Santo Domingo is one of Mexico and Oaxaca’s most iconic landmarks. It is definitely well worth a short visit. It is over 400 years old and while it seems deceptively understated from the outside, the interior is ornate, impressive and full of gold.
Templo de Santo Domingo, Calle de Macedonio Alcalá S/N, Centro, Oaxaca, México
If you’re in Oaxaca during mid to late July, be sure to attend the spectacular Guelaguetza celebration in Oaxaca City. All seven of Oaxaca State’s regions are represented in this cultural spectacular that shows off some of Mexico’s best traditional dances. You must buy tickets in advance, though, (they go on sale about two months ahead of time) if you want a guaranteed seat.
Auditorio Guelaguetza, Carr. Internacional, Área sin Asignación de Nombre de Colonia, Oaxaca, México