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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 amongst 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 cafes 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 Alban, 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 calling one of our Mexico specialists on 01993 838 670
Suggested Oaxaca itinerary
This sample itinerary will give you an idea of what is possible when you travel in Oaxaca, and showcases routes we know work particularly well. Treat this as inspiration, because your trip will be created uniquely by one of our specialists.
Culinary Tour of Mexico
This trip is ideal for those with a culinary flair, or just a keen interest in enjoying good food. Although the tour does have a definite gastronomic focus, it still takes in the main sights of Mexico. Explore the extraordinary inventiveness of Mexican cuisine and its regional variety through some of the country’s most famous culinary regions that combines Mexico City with Puebla, Oaxaca and the Pacific coast. The tour starts in Mexico City and allows you to explore the city before sampling some of the delicious street food available. Take to the streets of Puebla sampling some of the city’s local specialties before heading to Oaxaca where you’ll enjoy a cookery class with a local chef, sourcing fresh ingredients in the markets, learning to prepare your own dishes. You’ll finish off by indulging in fresh seafood on the beach over on the Pacific coast. This trip takes you to the source of some of the nation's most iconic foods, from delicious tacos to spicy mole and beyond.
Map of Oaxaca
Places & hotels on the map
Places near Oaxaca
- Huatulco 97 miles away
- Veracruz 150 miles away
- Puebla 169 miles away
- Cuernavaca 210 miles away
- Taxco 217 miles away
- Mexico City 229 miles away
- Teotihuacan 231 miles away
- San Cristóbal de las Casas 272 miles away
Photos of Oaxaca
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![Colourful streets of Oaxaca]()
Colourful streets of Oaxaca -
![Santo Domingo church, Oaxaca]()
Santo Domingo church, Oaxaca -
![Guelaguetza parades, Oaxaca]()
Guelaguetza parades, Oaxaca -
![Santo Domingo Church, Oaxaca]()
Santo Domingo Church, Oaxaca -
![Monte Alban, Mexico]()
Monte Alban, Mexico -
![Monte Alban - Oaxaca, Mexico]()
Monte Alban - Oaxaca, Mexico -
![Santo Domingo church, Oaxaca]()
Santo Domingo church, Oaxaca -
![Colourful textiles, Oaxaca]()
Colourful textiles, Oaxaca
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.
Hotel La Provincia
Located just a few steps from the Zocalo (Main Square), La Provincia is housed in a beautiful old colonial building.
Camino Real
The Camino Real is the beautifully restored 16th century ex-convent of Santa Catalina, located in the heart of Oaxaca.
Hostal de la Noria
The Hostal de la Noria is a beautifully restored colonial mansion located in the historic centre of Oaxaca near the zocalo.
Casa Oaxaca
The Casa Oaxaca is a beautiful six bedroom boutique hotel located in the heart of Oaxaca. A stay in this stylish Oaxacan property will truly enhance your trip to Mexico.
Casa Catrina
Casa Catrina is a small, charming boutique hotel offering a high level of service.
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.
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.