by EdsonCid / CC BY-SA 3.0  

Where Ancient History Meets Modern Mexican Charm

A. About Oaxaca

Nickname: The Land of Seven Moles

Oaxaca, a very beautiful city in southern Mexico, is celebrated for its vibrant culture, which reflects indigenous Zapotec and Mixtec heritage.

The city is known for its colorful festivals, especially the Guelaguetza, which showcases traditional dance and music.

Oaxaca is home to impressive historic landmarks like the Santo Domingo de Guzmán Church and the Monte Albán ruins, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Its culinary scene is famous for unique flavors, especially mole sauces, tlayudas, and mezcal, a distilled spirit native to the region.

 

The Good

Oaxaca is highly affordable, offering budget-friendly options for accommodations, dining, and shopping.

Furthermore, the city’s location amidst the Sierra Madre mountains provides stunning landscapes and opportunities for hiking and eco-tourism.

Additionally, its mild and pleasant climate throughout the year adds to its appeal.

Lastly, the warmth and hospitality of Oaxaca’s people create a welcoming atmosphere, making visitors feel at home.

Negative Aspects

Fortunately, Oaxaca doesn't score lower than 4.5/10 in any category.

Shopping options in Oaxaca are somewhat limited, particularly for international brands and large shopping centers. The city is better suited to finding unique handicrafts, local markets, and artisanal goods.

 

B. Best Things to Do in Oaxaca in 2025 (Detailed List with Photos and Information)

In total, we count more than fifteen sights in Oaxaca. The following sights contribute to a score of 5.30/10 in this important category:

# HISTORIC CENTRE OF OAXACA 7 3.5 out of 5 stars

The Historic Centre of Oaxaca is a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and vibrant markets.

The area is a blend of indigenous and Spanish cultures, with beautiful churches, plazas, and colorful buildings. It’s filled with artisan shops, cafes, and art galleries that celebrate the city’s rich heritage.

City District  🌎 World Heritage Site: since 1987

by Joseluisjuarezperez / CC BY-SA 3.0

 

# ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITE OF MONTE ALBÁN 6 3.1 out of 5 stars

Located about 10 km (5 miles) west of Oaxaca, Monte Albán is an ancient Zapotec archaeological site located on a mountaintop with breathtaking views of the Oaxaca Valley.

The site includes pyramids, terraces, and ceremonial structures, showcasing advanced ancient engineering.

Archaeological Site 🌎 World Heritage Site: since 1987

by DavidConFran / CC BY-SA 3.0

# Centro Cultural Santo Domingo 6 3.1 out of 5 stars

Housed in the former Santo Domingo de Guzmán convent, this cultural center hosts exhibitions on Oaxacan history, art, and traditions. Its galleries feature ancient artifacts, religious art, and displays on Oaxaca’s indigenous heritage.

Cultural Center and Museum

by DavidConFran / CC BY-SA 3.0

# Zócalo Square 6 3.1 out of 5 stars

Oaxaca’s central square, the Zócalo, is a lively meeting point filled with street vendors, musicians, and cafes. Surrounded by historic buildings, it’s a hub for local events, celebrations, and protests.

Square

by Nsaum75 / CC BY-SA 4.0

# Árbol del Tule 5 2.5 out of 5 stars

The Árbol del Tule, a giant Montezuma cypress, is one of the world’s oldest and largest trees, located in Santa María del Tule near Oaxaca.

With a circumference of over 42 meters, the tree is an awe-inspiring natural wonder and sacred symbol for local indigenous groups. 

Tree  Distance from Oaxaca: 10 km

by LBM1948 / CC BY-SA 4.0

# Museo Rufino Tamayo 5 2.5 out of 5 stars

This museum showcases pre-Columbian art from Rufino Tamayo's private collection, blending Mexican heritage with modern presentation.

It features a rich collection that reflects indigenous cultures in Mexico, and is located in a 17th-century colonial mansion.

Archaeological Museum

by Kaldari / CC BY-SA 2.0

 

# Jardín Etnobotánico 5 2.1 out of 5 stars

This botanical garden features a unique collection of native plants from Oaxaca’s diverse ecosystems, set against a historic monastery. It highlights the region’s natural diversity and ecological importance.

Botanical Garden

by AlejandroLinaresGarcia / CC BY-SA 3.0

 

# Oaxaca Cathedral 4 2.1 out of 5 stars

This grand baroque-style cathedral is located on the north side of the Zócalo and dates back to the 16th century.

Cathedral

by Moody 75 from Phoenix / CC BY-SA 2.0

# Basilica of Our Lady of Solitude 4 2.1 out of 5 stars

This basilica, dedicated to Oaxaca’s patron saint, features an impressive baroque facade and a distinctive architecture.

Basilica

by Ivanpares CC BY-SA 3.0 /

#10 | Benito Juarez Market 4 2.1 out of 5 stars

One of Oaxaca’s busiest markets, it offers a vast array of local products, from traditional foods and spices to handicrafts.

Market

by Nsaum75 / CC BY-SA 3.0

 

Scoring and Icons Legend (Click here for detailed information)

10 = top-10 sight in the world

9 = world-class  

8 = outstanding

7 = excellent 

6 = impressive

5 = interesting

4 = decent

3 = mediocre

2 = bad

1 = abysmal

🌎 = World Heritage Site

= Excursion

C. Other Notable Sights and Attractions in Oaxaca

#11 | Museum of Contemporary Art & Textile Museum 4 2.1 out of 5 stars

The Museum of Contemporary Art showcases modern Mexican art, while the Textile Museum displays Oaxaca’s traditional weaving techniques. Both museums offer a blend of contemporary creativity and cultural heritage. Together, they highlight Oaxaca’s strong artistic and artisan traditions.

Museums

by Erwin Verbruggen / CC BY-SA 2.0

#12 | Plaza de la Danza 4 2 out of 5 stars

This open plaza is an important venue for cultural performances and festivals, including the Guelaguetza dance festival. It features scenic views and is surrounded by historic architecture.

Square

by Luisroj96 / CC BY-SA 3.0

– Museo Casa Juárez 4

This museum was once the home of Benito Juárez, Mexico's revered former president. It provides insight into Juárez’s early life and his rise from humble beginnings to national prominence.

– Cortés House 4

Also known as Casa de Cortés, this historical building is believed to have been one of the oldest structures related to Spanish colonialists.


D. Best Day Trips and Excursions from Oaxaca

Mitla 6 3.1 out of 5 stars

Mitla, a Mixtec and Zapotec archaeological site in Oaxaca, is renowned for its intricate stone mosaics and geometric designs that decorate its ancient structures.

Archaeological Site Distance from Oaxaca: 45 km

by WendyAvilesR / CC BY-SA 4.0

Hierve el Agua 6 3.1 out of 5 stars

The city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, featuring stunning landmarks such as the Puebla Cathedral, Biblioteca Palafoxiana, and numerous beautifully preserved baroque churches.

Archaeological Site Distance from Oaxaca: 67 km

by LBM1948 / CC BY-SA 3.0

E. Top 10 List of the Best Things to Do in Oaxaca 2025 (including close-by excursions)

To sum things up, these are the ten best sights we recommend to you when visiting Oaxaca for at least three entire days:

🌍 HISTORIC CENTRE OF OAXACA 7

🌍ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITE OF MONTE ALBÁN 6

Centro Cultural Santo Domingo 6

Zócalo Square 6

Árbol del Tule 5

Museo Rufino Tamayo 5

Jardín Etnobotánico 5

Oaxaca Cathedral 4

Basilica of Our Lady of Solitude 4

Benito Juarez Market 4