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One of Mexico’s most delightful and popular cities, easily reached by plane from Mexico City, Oaxaca lies in a high valley in the south of the country and is surrounded by fascinating Zapotec ruins and traditional villages.
Founded by the Spanish in 1521 and declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987, it has managed to retain many of its native roots among the ornate colonial architecture of its beautiful city centre.
Exploring
The historic city is best explored on foot as the main places of interest are all within walking distance of each other along cobbled streets with charming little shops and restaurants. The museums here are plentiful and well renowned with the impressive Santo Domingo church, the cathedral, the plazas and Indian markets all making it an intriguing place to spend a few days. It's a fabulous spot to wander around or simply sit in one of the outdoor cafés soaking up the atmosphere.
For those interested in exploring the surrounding area we can arrange day trips to the nearby Zapotecan archaeological site of Monte Albán, spectacularly perched on a hilltop with stunning views of the valley below, or touring the many fascinating little Indian villages, each famous for particular skills in weaving, pottery or rug making.
who's been there
Start planning your tailor-made trip to Oaxaca by contacting one of our Mexico specialists
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01993 838 92501993 838 670
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Suggested itineraries featuring Oaxaca
Our itineraries will give you suggestions for what is possible when you travel in Oaxaca, and they showcase routes we know work particularly well. Treat them as inspiration, because your trip will be created uniquely by one of our specialists.
Places near Oaxaca
- Huatulco 97 miles away
- Veracruz 154 miles away
- Puebla 169 miles away
- Cuernavaca 210 miles away
- Taxco 217 miles away
- Mexico City 229 miles away
- Teotihuacán 231 miles away
- San Cristóbal de las Casas 272 miles away
- Chiapas 283 miles away
Photos of Oaxaca
Our expert guides to exploring Oaxaca
Written by our specialists from their own experiences of visiting Oaxaca, these guides will help you make the most of your time there. We share both our practical recommendations and the best ways to appreciate Oaxaca at its best.
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Mexico’s Day of the Dead, demystified: a brief guide ![Day of the Dead parade in Mexico City]()
Mexico’s Day of the Dead, demystified: a brief guide
Mexico’s Day of the Dead, demystified: a brief guide
An overview of Mexico’s Day of the Dead, by one of our Mexico specialists. Jeff outlines where to go in Mexico for the most vivid celebrations, ways you can get involved in the festivities and — crucially — what you might eat.
Read this guide -
What to do in Mexico: our highlights guide ![Teotihuacán, Mexico]()
What to do in Mexico: our highlights guide
What to do in Mexico: our highlights guide
Mexico’s character is many-sided. From cosmopolitan colonial cities and vibrant markets to mountain wilderness, sleepy Caribbean islands, vast cacti-covered deserts and a wealth of intriguing ancient ruins, specialist Carolyn shares her highlights.
Read this guide
Accommodation choices for Oaxaca
We've selected a range of accommodation options for when you visit Oaxaca. Our choices usually come recommended for their character, facilities and service or location. Our specialists always aim to suggest properties that match your preferences.
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![Restaurant attached to Casa Catrina, Oaxaca]()
Casa Catrina
Oaxaca -
![Quinta Real Oaxaca]()
Quinta Real
Oaxaca -
![Casa Oaxaca, Oaxaca]()
Casa Oaxaca
Oaxaca
Ideas for experiencing Oaxaca
Our specialists seek out authentic ways to get to know the places that could feature in your trip. These activities reflect some of the experiences they've most enjoyed while visiting Oaxaca, and which use the best local guides.
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Tour to Monte Albán ![Monte Albán, Oaxaca]()
Tour to Monte Albán
Tour to Monte Albán
Visit the massive temples of the Zapotecan archaeological site of Monte Albán which are perched on a hilltop with stunning views over the valley below.
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