The Top 10 Best Things to Do in Oaxaca, Mexico

If you’re looking for an amazing vacation destination, look no further than Oaxaca, Mexico! This beautiful city is home to some of the best sights and activities in the country. From ancient ruins to stunning beaches, there is something for everyone in Oaxaca. In this blog post, we will discuss the top 10 best things to do in Oaxaca, Mexico. So pack your bags and get ready for an adventure!

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Here are the Top 10 Best Things To Do in Oaxaca, Mexico:

1. Visit the ancient ruins of Monte Alban

Monte Alban is one of the most important archaeological sites in Mexico. This ancient city was once the capital of the Zapotec civilization.

Today, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most popular tourist destinations in Oaxaca. You can explore the ruins of Monte Alban, which include pyramids, temples, and palaces. If you’re visiting for the first time, this should be on your list of the top 10 best things to do in Oaxaca.

aerial view of monte alban in oaxaca mexico in the top 10 best things to do in oaxaca mexico — Ancient Ruins of Monte Alban

2. Explore the fascinating Zapotec ruins at Mitla

Mitla is a small but important site in Oaxaca that dates back to around 500 BC. The site has been continuously occupied for over 10,000 years. Mitla is a bustling town with old traditions, just like Oaxaca itself.

The people of Mitla pride themselves on their culture and history which can be seen in many aspects such as architecture (the churches) or food preparation techniques ( indigenous dishes).

Aerial photographs taken by drones reveal how its structures have changed with time and provide researchers with an excellent record of life on Earth at different periods throughout human history!

3. Discover the beauty of Hierve el Agua

Hierve el Agua is a natural spring that not only produces mineral-rich water but also has been used by the ancient Mayans for rituals and ceremonies.

The water is so rich in minerals that it has formed stalactites and stalagmites over the years. Visitors can swim in the pools, relax in the hot springs, and enjoy the stunning views.

Walden by Henry David Thoreau talks about his experience with the waters of Hierve el Agua. He wrote that “these little spring floods soon give out,” but they never did for him; their lure drew him back again and again even when all other sources had been exhausted or forgotten.

This has been on our bucket-list of the top 10 things to do in Oaxaca and we can’t wait to check it off!

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4. Wander through the vibrant markets of Oaxaca City

Oaxaca City is a mecca for those who love markets and shopping. The main square in this colorful city has been home to popular celebrations since the 16th century when it served as an important marketplace during colonial times, long before there were any buildings like what we know today!

Oaxaca City is home to some of the best markets in Mexico. From fresh produce to handmade goods, there is something for everyone at these markets. Visitors can explore the markets of Oaxaca City and find souvenirs, gifts, and delicious food.

The Top 10 Best Things to Do in Oaxaca Mexico

5. Try some delicious Mexican food

Mexican food is some of the best in the world. Oaxaca is home to many traditional dishes, as well as unique fusion cuisine.

You can find amazing restaurants all over the city. Be sure to try the mole poblano, a traditional dish from Oaxaca that is made with chocolate and chili peppers.

6. Take a day trip to see the stunning waterfalls of San Martin Tilcajete

Some of the most beautiful waterfalls in Mexico are found at San Martin Tilcajete. With over 100 distinct falls, it is a photographer’s paradise and an explorer’s dream come true!

You can hike to the waterfalls and swim in the refreshing pools. Be sure to bring your camera, as this is a truly stunning place.

Hierve el agua Oaxaca in top things to do in oaxaca mexico — Hierve el agua Oaxaca

7. Learn about the history of the Zapotec people at the Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca

The Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca is a must-visit for history buffs. This museum houses artifacts and exhibits that showcase the history of the Zapotec people. Visitors can learn about the culture, religion, and art of the Zapotec people.

If you’re into history, architecture, and art, then save this for one of your top things to do in Oaxaca, Mexico.

8. Take a Traditional Oaxacan Cooking Class

One of the top things to do in Oaxaca is to take a cooking class. If you’re interested in learning how to cook traditional Mexican food, consider taking a cooking class.

Oaxaca is home to many cooking schools that offer classes for all levels. During your class, you’ll learn how to make some of the most popular dishes from Oaxaca.

9. Explore Jardín Etnobotánico de Oaxaca

The Jardín Etnobotánico de Oaxaca is a must-visit for nature lovers. This beautiful garden is home to over 2000 species of plants. Visitors can explore the gardens, which are divided into different sections, and learn about the plants that grow in Oaxaca.

You can go hiking, walking, or driving through the Jardín Etnobotánico de Oaxaca. The garden was designed to be an educational hub with different species of plants from all over Mexico displayed on its paths and around every corner!

The fruits you may find here include apples (including La manzanita), pears(the Capriola) plums, tomatoes, peaches, avocados, olives, grapefruit, oranges, quince, lemons, limes, oregano, mint among many other fruits.

Botanical gardens are some of our favorites places to visit and defitinely has made it into our top 10 things to do in Oaxaca.

Jardín Etnobotánico de Oaxaca top things to do in oaxaca mexico — Jardín Etnobotánico de Oaxaca

The Top 10 Best Things to Do in Oaxaca, Mexico: Fun Activities

10. Detox and de-stress in a Temazcal (ancient sweat lodge)

Oaxaca is home to many ancient sweat lodges known as Temazcals, which were used for healing and cleansing rituals. The ancient Oaxacans used these sweat lodges for cleansing themselves of any negative energy or toxins they may have been carrying around before entering these sacred grounds.

Today, these lodges are still used for their detox and de-stress benefits. You can relax in the steam room, enjoy a massage, and detoxify.

Where To Stay in Oaxaca, Mexico

Now that we’ve talked about the top things to do in Oaxaca, let’s discuss the different areas you can stay in while there. Oaxaca City is the state’s capital and largest city. It’s one of Mexico’s most distinctive places to stay, located in the Central Valleys region on the slopes of the Sierra Madres.

It is a lively, colorful, and vibrant city that mixes its ancient and cultural history with fantastic cuisine, busy nightlife, and a rambunctious energy.

Centro is an excellent location to stay if you’re visiting Oaxaca for the first time. This busy and active district is at the center of the city, with an endless number of things to see and do. It’s well-connected to other parts of the city, making it a great place to begin your journey in another direction.

The best place to stay if you’re visiting Mexico on a budget is the Llano region, which is centred on a beautiful park. It’s slightly distant from the center and provides cheaper lodgings without being too far away from all the excitement.

Santo Domingo, located north of the city center, is a great place to go out in Oaxaca. With plenty going on when the sun goes down, this is one of the best areas in Oaxaca for nightlife.

Jalatlaco is one of the most unique places to stay in Oaxaca. It’s a trendy, colorful community known for its quirkiness and restaurants. It also houses art galleries, museums, murals, and other cultural attractions.

Finally, the Barrio de la Noria is located south of the city centre. This area provides a fantastic outlet from the bustle while being close to the city centre and our top pick for where to stay in Oaxaca with children.

Travel Sustainable Hotels in Oaxaca

We’ve listed a few properties that are part of the Travel Sustainable program, which means they have taken significant steps to make your stay more sustainable.

Best Luxury Hotels in Oaxaca

These are 5-star stays that are only 1/2 mile from the city center and have been rated over 9/10 by other travelers.

Best Boutique Hotels in Oaxaca

There are a number of alluring boutique hotels that are at your service to enhance your stay. Some of the most stunning ones are listed below:

Best Budget Hotels in Oaxaca

Budget hotels are great especiallly if you’ll be spending most of your time outdoors anyway. Most of the ones below are centrally located, clean, comfortable and are all under $30 per night.