The Ultimate Guide: How to Get from Oaxaca to Mexico City
- Jack Thompson
- Feb 26
- 6 min read
Oaxaca to Mexico City
Traveling from Oaxaca to Mexico City is an exciting journey that offers multiple transport options, catering to every type of backpacker. Whether you're looking for the fastest route, the most budget-friendly option, or a scenic ride, this guide covers it all. Plus, we've included recommendations for the best places to stay in both Oaxaca and Mexico City.
How to Travel from Oaxaca to Mexico City
✈️ Option 01 - Flying from Oaxaca to CDMX (Fastest)
If you're short on time and prefer the quickest way, flying is your best bet. I did this from Puerto Escondito as I wanted as many days on the beach as possible and the airport is super easy to get to. It is the same story for Oaxaca city. Lets quick fire this:
Flight duration: around 1 hour 15 minutes
Airlines: Aeroméxico, Volaris, Viva Aerobus
Average cost: $40 - $150 USD (depending on season and booking time)
Best way to book: Use Skyscanner to compare prices and find the best deals, make sure to check your baggage allowance and if you can be flexible on dates book early then you are on to a winner.
Getting to/from the airport:
Oaxaca International Airport (OAX) is about 25 minutes from the city centre.
Mexico City’s Benito Juárez International Airport (MEX) has multiple transport options, including metro, taxis, and airport shuttles. I hopped into an Uber but this can have its challenges!
Puerto Escondito (PXM) is around 20 minutes down the road and will also take you into Benito Juárez.
Pros: Fast and convenient beautiful view over Mexico City from above!
Cons: More expensive, potential baggage fees
🚎 Option 02 - Take the bus from Oaxaca to Mexico City (Cheapest)
For budget-conscious travellers, buses are the most affordable and scenic way to travel. I love a bus ride but be prepared for some windy roads! Here are the quick fire stats
Bus duration: 6 to 7 hours from Oaxaca City, 12 Hours from Puerto Escondito
Bus companies: ADO, OCC, AU
Cost: $30 - $60 USD (prices vary based on class and schedule)
Best way to book: Reserve your ticket via Busbud for the best options and discounts.
Comfort options: First-class buses offer reclining seats, air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and entertainment systems. To be honest the bus' in Mexico are pretty darn good on the major routes so reserve a seat and relax.
Departure and Arrival: Buses leave from Oaxaca’s ADO terminal and arrive at various terminals in Mexico City (TAPO, Norte, or Sur). From
Pros: Affordable, scenic, comfortable seats
Cons: Longer travel time and winding roads
🚗 Option 03 - Renting a Car (Best for Flexibility and Adventure)
If you love road trips, renting a car gives you the freedom to explore hidden gems along the way.
Driving distance: 460 km (6-7 hours)
Car rental options: Book via Discover Cars for the best deals from Oaxaca.
Recommended stops:
Mitla – Explore ancient Zapotec ruins.
Hierve el Agua – Stunning petrified waterfalls.
Puebla – A charming colonial city with amazing food.
Pros: Flexibility, scenic stops, road trip experience
Cons: Requires navigation, potential tolls, longer travel time
Where to Stay in Oaxaca
🎒 The Best Stays in Oaxaca for Backpackers
Good news, Oaxaca is a backpackers heaven with a plethora of incredible options for dorms and privates. Here are two of the very best. If you are a hostel hopper this is a great place to try a good number of hostels.
Top-rated, social atmosphere, free breakfast need I say more? Casa Angel has a fantastic reputation and it does so for a reason. If you are looking for the social centre of hostels in Oaxaca look no further
A more intimate offering with a cute courtyard. You will be able to meet people here and have a relaxing stay. There are plenty of in-house tour options that will keep you busy.
🏨 The Best Stay in Oaxaca for a Mid Range Budget
This boutique hotel is a traveler’s dream, offering a perfect blend of comfort, sustainability, and social impact. Profits from the hotel go towards educational programs in Oaxaca, so your stay directly contributes to the local community. Guests love the stylish rooms, delicious breakfasts, and the relaxed, friendly atmosphere.
Nestled in a quiet yet central part of Oaxaca, Comala Bed & Breakfast is ideal for travelers who appreciate charm and warmth. The beautifully designed rooms, delicious homemade breakfasts, and attentive hosts make for a cozy and memorable stay. Guests love the tranquil courtyard, great coffee, and proximity to Oaxaca’s main attraction
🏛️ The Best Stays in Oaxaca for a Luxury Budget
A former convent turned elegant hotel, Quinta Real Oaxaca is steeped in history and colonial charm. The stunning courtyards, traditional architecture, and luxurious rooms transport guests to another era while still offering modern comforts. Travelers love its prime location in the heart of Oaxaca and the serene atmosphere that makes it a perfect retreat after a day of exploration.
Where to Stay in Mexico City
🎒 The Best Stays in Mexico City for Backpackers
Hostel Mundo Joven Catedral (historic Centre)
Located steps from the Zócalo, this vibrant hostel offers dorms and private rooms with a rooftop bar overlooking the historic skyline. Perfect for social travellers.
Viajero CDMX Centro Hostel (historic Centre)
A vibrant and social hostel located near the Zócalo. It features colourful, modern décor, dorms, and private rooms, plus a rooftop terrace for mingling with travellers and enjoying views of the city’s historic landmarks.
Casa Pepe Hostal Boutique Ciudad de México (historic Centre)
A boutique-style hostel with a cultural twist, Casa Pepe blends art, music, and social spaces. It offers beautifully designed dorms and private rooms, plus curated events, tours, and a rooftop bar with city views.
Casa Pancha (Roma Norte)
Casa Pancha is one of the most popular hostels in Roma Norte, known for its cozy communal vibe, stylish interiors, and a focus on sustainability. The dorms are modern and spacious, and the private rooms feel more like boutique hotel stays.
🏨 The Best Stay in Mexico City for a Mid Range Budget
Gran Hotel Ciudad de México (historic centre)
A stunning Art Nouveau hotel featuring a Tiffany-style stained glass ceiling, opulent interiors, and panoramic rooftop views of the Zócalo. The epitome of historic luxury this one is for the architecture lovers and those who want to stay in a piece of history.
NaNa Vida CDMX (Roma Norte)
Modern, comfortable clean, a splash of colour for added 'Mexico City' vibe. Its an excellent choice for those who want to leave their troubles behind.
🏛️ The Best Stays in Mexico City for a Luxury Budget
Xoma Boutique Stays by Viadora (Roma Norte)
An architecturally interesting, modern hotel complex, expect the same attention to detail on the inside as the outside, you will feel like you are in a luxury apartment rather than a hotel!
La Valise Mexico City (Roma Norte)
Is a boutique haven in the heart of Roma, offering just three exquisitely designed suites that blend modern elegance with vintage charm. A member of Small Luxury Hotels, it features unique touches like roll-out beds for stargazing and curated Mexican art. Ideal for intimate, luxury escapes or a romantic getaway.
Four Seasons Hotel Mexico City (central)
A luxurious urban retreat in the heart of the bustling capital. Nestled on the iconic Paseo de la Reforma, this hotel blends timeless elegance with modern sophistication, making it a standout choice for discerning travellers.
Guests are greeted with lush courtyards adorned with fountains and greenery, offering an oasis of calm amidst the city’s vibrant energy. Rooms and suites are spacious, featuring contemporary design with touches of Mexican artistry, and many offer views of the tranquil courtyard or the skyline.
The hotel boasts exceptional dining options, including Zanaya, known for fresh, coastal Mexican cuisine, and Fifty Mils, an award-winning cocktail bar that has gained international recognition. For relaxation, the spa provides treatments inspired by Mexican traditions, while the rooftop pool offers a serene escape with stunning views.
Want to explore more of Mexico? We have you covered
For the intelligent explorer
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