Oaxaca City is the home of Mezcal in a stunnnnnnning spanish baroque setting.

Oaxaca City (pronounced "wah-HAH-kah") is one of Mexico’s most culturally rich, visually stunning, and soul-stirring destinations. Nestled in a valley surrounded by the Sierra Madre mountains, this city is a magnet for travellers seeking authentic traditions, bold architecture, ancient ruins, incredible food, and colourful street life.

Whether you're into archaeology, colonial charm, indigenous culture, or just chasing mezcal and mole, Oaxaca hits every note.

A Living Museum of Culture

Oaxaca is often described as the cultural heart of Mexico. It’s a place where Indigenous Zapotec and Mixtec traditions are alive in everyday life; from language and dress to market goods and street murals.

Festivals here are legendary. Time your visit for Día de los Muertos in late October/early November or the summer Guelaguetza celebration and you’ll be swept up in a whirl of parades, music, dance and deep-rooted community spirit.

Architectural Elegance & Earthy Roots

Walk Oaxaca’s cobbled streets and you'll see a mix of:

Spanish colonial architecture in its grand churches, leafy plazas and pastel-coloured facades.

Indigenous building techniques, including adobe walls and red clay tile roofs.

Baroque flourishes, especially in the ornate Santo Domingo Church, one of the finest in all of Mexico.

Don’t miss the Templo de Santo Domingo complex; a beautifully preserved church and former convent with gold-leaf altars and an attached ethnobotanical garden.

The city’s Zócalo is another architectural highlight; lively, shaded, and framed by arcaded government buildings and cafes.

Street Art Capital

Oaxaca is one of Mexico’s most important cities for contemporary street art and political muralism. The walls speak here, about heritage, resistance, migration and identity. Walk through the Jalatlaco or Xochimilco neighbourhoods to find some of the best examples. It’s an open-air gallery that rivals anything inside a museum.

History and Ancient Power

Just a short ride from the centre is Monte Albán, an ancient Zapotec city perched high above the valley floor. The views alone are worth the trip, but the ruins; with grand plazas, pyramids, tombs and carvings; are a spine-tingling connection to the past.

For those really into ruins, Mitla to the east is smaller but striking for its intricate geometric stone mosaics.

Culinary Capital of Mexico

If food’s your thing, welcome to heaven.

Mole negro, tlayudas, chapulines (roasted grasshoppers), and memelas are just a few local dishes you must try.

Wander the Mercado 20 de Noviembre and the Benito Juárez Market for everything from smoky meats to local crafts.

And of course, mezcal; this is its spiritual home. Visit a local palenque (distillery) to learn how it's made and sip some of the best in the country.

Oaxaca’s cuisine is a UNESCO-recognised cultural treasure, and once you've tasted your way around, you’ll understand why.

Backpacker Life

Oaxaca is a dream for slow travellers and budget explorers. The vibe is welcoming, walkable, and full of character.

Accommodation - Boutique hostels, guesthouses, and rooftop stays are all affordable and sociable.

Transport - It’s easy to get around on foot or by local colectivos. Buses and shared taxis make day trips simple.

Cost - Excellent value, especially compared to pricier places like Tulum or Mexico City.

Nightlife & Vibes - Oaxaca’s nightlife is more intimate than raucous; think rooftop mezcalerías, live jazz bars, and bohemian courtyards. But don’t underestimate the energy. On weekends, the Zócalo comes alive with music and impromptu dancing, and there's no shortage of bars pouring potent artisanal mezcal. 

Important - Do not walk home alone at night, especially women and especially after a few mezcals!

Neighbourhoods like Centro, Jalatlaco, and Reforma are great bases with both nightlife and charm.

Day Trips & Adventures

Oaxaca’s valley is filled with adventures:

Hierve el Agua - a surreal petrified waterfall and natural infinity pools.

Teotitlán del Valle - a weaving village where artisans use natural dyes and traditional looms.

San Bartolo Coyotepec - home of Oaxaca’s famed black pottery.

You can visit coffee plantations, hike the hills, or simply soak in mountain air and rural rhythms.

Walking Tour - Do not miss a walking tour here were you will likely explore the textile mills, I am proud to report I have a colourful hand made dining table cloth that sits on the kitchen table and reminds me everyday about this joyful little town. 

Why Visit Oaxaca City?

It’s Mexico at its richest; visually, historically, culturally and gastronomically. It offers the perfect balance of adventure and reflection, tradition and innovation. Whether you're here to dig into ancient Zapotec ruins, explore vibrant art scenes, eat like royalty, or just lose yourself in beautiful streets, Oaxaca City is a place that stays with you. It’s real, raw, colourful and unforgettable; the kind of place that quietly becomes the highlight of your entire trip.