bigtravelbuzzOaxaca de Juárez, the capital of Oaxaca state in Mexico, is a city of rich cultural heritage, historic charm, and culinary excellence. Nestled in a valley in southern Mexico, this city offers a delightful blend of indigenous traditions and colonial influences. In this comprehensive travel guide to Oaxaca de Juárez, we’ll cover places to visit, the best time to go, things to do, transportation, where to eat, famous street stalls, accommodation options, and travel tips.
Places to Visit in Oaxaca de Juárez
- Zócalo (Main Square)
The heart of the city, Zócalo, is surrounded by architectural gems like the Oaxaca Cathedral, Government Palace, and the Portal de Mercadores. - Church of Santo Domingo de Guzmán
This baroque-style church and its adjoining former monastery are renowned for their ornate architecture and house the Oaxaca Ethnobotanical Garden. - Benito Juárez Market
This bustling market is a great place to sample Oaxacan street food, buy local crafts, and immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant atmosphere. - Monte Albán
A short drive from the city, Monte Albán is an ancient Zapotec archaeological site with pyramids, plazas, and tombs. - Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca (Museum of Oaxacan Cultures)
Explore the history and diversity of Oaxacan cultures through artifacts, textiles, and art in this museum.
Best Time to Visit Oaxaca de Juárez
The best time to visit Oaxaca de Juárez is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. During these months, the weather is pleasant, and you’ll have a chance to participate in various festivals, including Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) in early November.
Things to Do in Oaxaca de Juárez
- Day of the Dead Celebrations
If you visit in early November, you can partake in the vibrant Day of the Dead festivities, which include parades, altars, and cultural events. - Artisan Workshops
Oaxaca is known for its artisans, so take a workshop to learn about traditional crafts like pottery, weaving, and alebrijes (colorful Mexican folk art sculptures). - Culinary Tours
Discover the world of Oaxacan cuisine with a food tour. Sample famous dishes like mole, tlayudas, and chapulines (fried grasshoppers). - Hierve el Agua
Take a day trip to the petrified waterfalls of Hierve el Agua, where you can swim in mineral-rich natural pools. - Mezcal Tastings
Oaxaca is renowned for its mezcal production. Visit local distilleries to learn about the traditional mezcal-making process and enjoy tastings.
How to Get Around in Oaxaca de Juárez
Walking: The city’s historic center is pedestrian-friendly, making it easy to explore on foot.
Taxis: Taxis are readily available and affordable for getting around the city.
Collectivos: Shared vans or collectivos operate on set routes and are a cost-effective way to reach nearby towns and attractions.
Buses: Oaxaca’s ADO bus terminal offers connections to destinations within the state and to other major Mexican cities.
Where to Eat in Oaxaca de Juárez
Oaxaca de Juárez is a food lover’s paradise. Be sure to try these dishes and visit these dining spots:
Mole: Enjoy different types of mole sauces in dishes served at local restaurants.
Tlayudas at La Teca: La Teca is renowned for its tlayudas, a delicious Oaxacan specialty.
Comala: This popular restaurant offers traditional Oaxacan dishes in a charming setting.
Mercado Benito Juárez: Explore the market for street food stalls serving local delicacies like tlayudas and tamales.
Famous Street Stalls in Oaxaca de Juárez
Tlayudas Libres: A beloved street food stall serving tlayudas with various toppings. Try the chapulines (fried grasshoppers) if you’re feeling adventurous.
Elotes y Esquites: These street vendors offer corn on the cob (elotes) and corn in a cup (esquites) with a variety of toppings.
Tacos de Lechón El Negro: Visit this street stall for delicious tacos filled with lechón (roast pork).
Where to Stay in Oaxaca de Juárez
Oaxaca de Juárez provides a wide range of accommodation options to suit various budgets and preferences:
Boutique Hotels: Stay in charming boutique hotels in the historic center, offering unique decor and personalized service.
Hostels: Budget-friendly hostels are ideal for backpackers and solo travelers.
Luxury Hotels: Enjoy luxurious accommodations at high-end hotels with excellent amenities and beautiful courtyards.
Vacation Rentals: Consider renting a local apartment or house for an authentic experience.
Travel Tips for Oaxaca de Juárez
Local Currency: Ensure you have Mexican pesos on hand, especially when visiting street markets.
Altitude: Oaxaca de Juárez is at a high elevation, so stay hydrated to prevent altitude sickness.
Safety: Oaxaca is generally safe for tourists, but it’s wise to take standard safety precautions and keep an eye on your belongings.
Learn Basic Spanish: While many in the tourist industry speak English, learning a few basic Spanish phrases can be helpful and appreciated by locals.
Travel Insurance: Consider purchasing travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and trip cancellations.
Oaxaca de Juárez, with its captivating blend of history, culture, and culinary delights, offers a truly immersive Mexican experience. Whether you’re exploring ancient ruins, savoring authentic Oaxacan dishes, or participating in local festivals, this city promises unforgettable memories and a deep appreciation for Mexico’s traditions. 🏛️🌮🎉🏞️🌶️🏨🇲🇽