Woman selling Oaxacan deserts from food cart.

Justin Foulkes

Oaxaca City

A cultural colossus fit to rival anywhere in Latin America for history, gastronomy and colorful manifestations of indigenous culture, Oaxaca is a complex but intensely attractive city whose majestic churches and refined plazas have deservedly earned it a Unesco World Heritage badge. Lovers of culture come here to indulge in the Mexico of Zapotec and colonial legend. Flowing through handsome yet tranquil streets, life pulsates with an unadulterated regional flavor. See it in the color palate of historic boutique hotels, a meet-the-producer artisan store or an intentionally grungy mezcalería (plying locally manufactured alcoholic beverages). But what makes Oaxaca especially interesting are its undercurrents. While largely safe and attractive by Mexican standards, snippets of political protest in recent years have lent the city a grittier edge. It bubbles up in satirical street art, bohemian bars and been-around-forever street markets. Trust us: there’s far more to this city than just pretty churches.

Leave the planning to a local expert

Experience the real Oaxaca City. Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

Get started

Attractions

Must-see attractions

Attractions

Top picks from our travel experts

Planning Tools

Expert guidance to help you plan your trip

Things to Know

Oaxaca is one of the most intriguing destinations in Mexico. Here's what you should know before you go.

Read article

Best Neighborhoods

The neighborhoods of Oaxaca make this city one of Mexico’s most alluring destinations. Here’s our guide to the best areas in town.

Read article

Day Trips

With these day trips from Oaxaca City, you can discover hikes through cloud forests, traditional artisans at work, mezcal distilleries and much more.

Read article

Money and Costs

Tips for saving dinero on your next trip.

Read article

Transportation

Here's the lowdown on how to get around in fast-growing Oaxaca.

Read article

Plan with a local

Articles

Latest stories from Oaxaca City

sb10069740j-001
Easy Retouch, horizontal, outdoors, day, side view, full length, walking, dress, black hair, plaits, 18-19 years, one young woman only, one person, urban scene, building exterior, motion, traditional clothing, Latin American and Hispanic Ethnicity, stone, wall, mexican culture, striped, Mexico, Oaxaca, Istmo

Destination Practicalities

10 things to know before going to Oaxaca, one of Mexico's most intriguing destinations

Jan 24, 2024 • 6 min read

in partnership with getyourguide

Book popular activities in Oaxaca City

Guidebooks

Purchase our award-winning guidebooks

Get to the heart of Oaxaca City with one of our in-depth, award-winning guidebooks, covering maps, itineraries, and expert guidance.