Things to do in Oaxaca can feel overwhelming for first-time visitors, but you don’t have to miss a single highlight. Many travelers struggle to plan their trip, but a clear guide makes exploring the city simple and enjoyable.
As your trusted guide, we share years of experience discovering Oaxaca’s history, culture, and natural beauty.
Here’s a simple plan to make the most of your visit:
- Must-see attractions like Monte Albán and Santo Domingo Church
- Cultural experiences like Jalatlaco and the Textiles Museum
- Nature escapes like Hierve el Agua and San José del Pacífico
Follow this guide to enjoy colorful streets, rich traditions, and memorable experiences in Oaxaca.
Must-See Attractions in Oaxaca
1. Santo Domingo Church
The Santo Domingo Church is one of the most beautiful landmarks in Mexico and a symbol of Oaxaca. It is more than a church; it hosts weddings and colorful parades called calendas, which fill the streets with music, dance, and fireworks.
The building shows Mexican Baroque architecture. Inside, visitors can see golden decorations, the family tree of Saint Dominic, portraits of Dominican martyrs, and restored altarpieces. Next to the church is the Ethnobotanical Garden, featuring plants from across Oaxaca. Guided tours are available in Spanish and English.
Santo Domingo is still part of daily life in Oaxaca. Locals celebrate here, film crews use it as a backdrop, and travelers from around the world enjoy its peace and beauty.
2. Monte Albán Ruins
Monte Albán is a pre-Colombian archaeological site built by the Zapotec people. It is one of the oldest ruins in Mexico, dating back to 500 BC and in use until around AD 500–700. The site sits on a hill overlooking the mountains and the city of Oaxaca, offering impressive views.
Visitors are advised to go in the morning, as there is limited shade. A local taxi or ride-hailing app makes getting there easy. Most of the site’s signs are worn from the sun, so hiring a certified guide—especially one who speaks English—can greatly enhance the experience. Guides can explain the history, architecture, and even the mortuary areas, which many find fascinating and eerie.
Monte Albán combines history, culture, and stunning scenery, making it a must-see for anyone visiting Oaxaca.
3. Tree of Tule
The Tree of Tule is located just outside Oaxaca in the town of Santa María del Tule. It is the widest tree in Mexico and is considered sacred by the local Zapotec people. The tree is believed to be over 2,000 years old.
The town is easy to reach by taxi, bike, or bus. Visitors can explore local markets, taste traditional food, and walk through the gardens surrounding the tree. Most travelers spend about two hours here, which is enough time to enjoy the tree and its surroundings.
See Also Things to Do in Krakow
Cultural Experiences in Oaxaca
4. Jalatlaco Neighborhood
Jalatlaco Neighborhood is one of the best cultural experiences in Oaxaca and is best explored on foot. The streets are full of colorful murals, and visitors can enjoy galleries, cafés, and mezcalerías. The neighborhood has a slower pace than the city center, making it perfect for a relaxed stroll.
Many businesses close on Sundays for a day of rest, so travelers should plan accordingly. Staying in this area is convenient, as it is within walking distance of the city center.
5. Textiles Museum
The Textiles Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in Oaxaca’s rich textile traditions. This museum, dedicated to the preservation and dissemination of Oaxacan textile art, has become a sanctuary where threads tell stories that have endured throughout time.
Located in an 18th-century colonial building, the museum features a collection of more than 10,000 textiles, including traditional garments, rugs, tablecloths, and other objects. The collection shows the many techniques and styles used across Oaxaca. Each piece reflects human patience and skill, offering a sensorial experience that connects visitors to the region’s cultural roots.
The museum is free to enter, and displays include explanations in English. It is smaller than many expect, so a visit usually takes about 30 minutes, but it provides a rich and meaningful look at Oaxaca’s textile heritage.
6. Day of the Dead (Día de los Muertos) Celebration
Día de los Muertos takes place in Oaxaca from October 31 to November 2. It is a holiday to honor the spirits of loved ones who have passed away. Visitors should book hotels and meals early because the city is very busy during this time.
During the holiday, homes, cemeteries, and streets are decorated with marigolds, candles, food, and photos. People create altars with the favorite foods and drinks of those who have passed. Bright paper banners called papel picado are placed on the altars to add color.
Each part of Oaxaca celebrates in its own way. In Villa de Etla, there is a nighttime parade called La Muerteada with music, costumes, and masks. In Zimatlán de Álvarez, locals gather at dawn to welcome the spirits of children and adults.
In Santa Cruz Xoxocotlán, families hold a vela (vigil) from the night of October 31 until sunrise, decorating graves with flowers, candles, and small figurines.
The vigil is a meaningful tradition. Families stay through the night to honor their loved ones and help their spirits return safely.
See Also Things to Do in Casablanca
Nature and Leisure in Oaxaca
7. Hierve el Agua
Hierve el Agua is one of the best natural and leisure spots in Oaxaca, located about 70 km (43 miles) from the city. It is famous for its white rock formations that look like waterfalls frozen in time. These formations were created thousands of years ago by mineral-rich water dripping over the cliffs.
At the top, turquoise pools filled with mineral water allow visitors to relax and enjoy the view. The site is managed by local communities, who charge a small entrance fee for the village and the springs.
8. San José del Pacífico
San José del Pacífico is one of the best nature and leisure spots in Oaxaca. It is a small mountain town located 2,300 meters above sea level, known for its peaceful surroundings and beautiful hiking trails.
Visitors can escape the city by renting a car or taking private transportation. The area is famous for its natural mushrooms, which grow during the rainy season from July to October. Those interested in exploring this tradition often hire a local Mazatec guide.
Things to Do in Oaxaca: A Recap
Things to do in Oaxaca offer something for every type of traveler. History and culture lovers can visit Monte Albán, Santo Domingo Church, and the Textiles Museum to learn about the city’s past and traditions.
Nature lovers can enjoy Hierve el Agua, the Tree of Tule, or the mountain town of San José del Pacífico for hiking, scenic views, and a peaceful time outdoors.
Families and casual travelers can explore the Jalatlaco Neighborhood, visit local markets, or experience the colorful Día de los Muertos celebrations. Oaxaca’s mix of history, culture, and natural beauty makes it a city that everyone can enjoy.