Best Places to Visit in Oaxaca | Travel Guide (2024) | Things to Do, See & Eat
Oaxaca Travel Guide
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Welcome to Oaxaca, Mexico, a vibrant and culturally rich destination that offers a unique blend of history, art, and culinary delights. Located in the southern part of the country, Oaxaca is known for its colonial architecture, indigenous traditions, and stunning natural landscapes. The city's historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is home to magnificent churches, colorful markets, and charming cobblestone streets. Oaxaca is also famous for its traditional crafts, such as pottery and textiles, which can be found in the bustling markets and artisan workshops. Additionally, the region is renowned for its delicious cuisine, including the world-famous mole sauce and mezcal, a traditional Mexican spirit. Whether you're exploring ancient ruins, indulging in mouthwatering street food, or immersing yourself in the vibrant local culture, Oaxaca promises an unforgettable travel experience.
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Best Places To Visit in Oaxaca
1. Oaxaca, Mexico : Oaxaca is a vibrant city located in southern Mexico, known for its rich culture and history. The city is home to numerous museums, galleries, and cultural centers, showcasing the region's indigenous heritage. Visitors can explore the stunning colonial architecture, including the iconic Santo Domingo church, or sample the delicious local cuisine, which includes traditional dishes like mole and tlayudas. Oaxaca is also a great base for exploring the surrounding countryside, with opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and visiting ancient ruins.
2. Kyoto, Japan : Kyoto is a city steeped in history and tradition, with over 2,000 temples and shrines scattered throughout its streets. Visitors can explore the stunning gardens and architecture of the city's many temples, including the famous Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) and Fushimi Inari-taisha shrine. Kyoto is also known for its traditional arts and crafts, such as pottery, weaving, and calligraphy, which can be experienced through workshops and demonstrations.
3. Barcelona, Spain : Barcelona is a vibrant city on the Mediterranean coast, known for its stunning architecture, world-class museums, and lively nightlife. Visitors can explore the iconic works of Antoni Gaudi, including the Sagrada Familia and Park Guell, or stroll along the famous Las Ramblas boulevard. Barcelona is also home to numerous museums, including the Picasso Museum and the Joan Miro Foundation, showcasing the city's rich artistic heritage.
4. Cape Town, South Africa : Cape Town is a stunning coastal city located at the southern tip of Africa, known for its natural beauty and diverse culture. Visitors can explore the iconic Table Mountain, take a boat tour to see the resident seals and penguins, or visit the historic Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for many years. Cape Town is also home to numerous museums and galleries, showcasing the city's rich history and artistic heritage.
5. Paris, France : Paris is a city known for its stunning architecture, world-class museums, and romantic atmosphere. Visitors can explore the iconic Eiffel Tower, stroll along the Seine River, or visit the famous Louvre Museum. Paris is also known for its delicious cuisine, including traditional dishes like croissants, baguettes, and escargots.
6. Marrakech, Morocco : Marrakech is a vibrant city located in the heart of Morocco, known for its stunning architecture, bustling markets, and rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the iconic Koutoubia Mosque, stroll through the colorful souks, or relax in one of the city's many beautiful gardens. Marrakech is also known for its delicious cuisine, including traditional dishes like tagine and couscous.
7. Sydney, Australia : Sydney is a stunning coastal city located in southeastern Australia, known for its iconic landmarks and beautiful beaches. Visitors can explore the famous Sydney Opera House, climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge, or relax on the golden sands of Bondi Beach. Sydney is also home to numerous museums and galleries, showcasing the city's rich history and artistic heritage.
8. New York City, USA : New York City is a bustling metropolis known for its iconic landmarks, world-class museums, and vibrant culture. Visitors can explore the famous Statue of Liberty, stroll through Central Park, or visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art. New York City is also known for its delicious cuisine, including traditional dishes like pizza and bagels.
9. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil : Rio de Janeiro is a vibrant coastal city located in southeastern Brazil, known for its stunning beaches, lively culture, and iconic landmarks. Visitors can explore the famous Christ the Redeemer statue, relax on the golden sands of Copacabana Beach, or visit the historic Sugarloaf Mountain. Rio de Janeiro is also known for its delicious cuisine, including traditional dishes like feijoada and churrasco.
10. Bangkok, Thailand : Bangkok is a bustling city located in central Thailand, known for its stunning temples, vibrant street life, and delicious cuisine. Visitors can explore the iconic Wat Phra Kaew temple, stroll through the colorful markets, or relax in one of the city's many beautiful parks. Bangkok is also known for its delicious cuisine, including traditional dishes like pad thai and green curry.
Hotels Map Of Oaxaca
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Tours And Activities In Oaxaca
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Food & Drinks To Try In Oaxaca
1. Mole: Oaxaca is famous for its rich and flavorful mole sauce. This traditional Mexican sauce is made from a combination of chili peppers, spices, nuts, and chocolate. It is often served over chicken or enchiladas and is a must-try dish in Oaxaca.
2. Tlayudas: Tlayudas are a popular street food in Oaxaca. They are large, crispy tortillas topped with refried beans, cheese, meat (such as grilled beef or pork), avocado, and salsa. They are often folded in half and grilled, creating a delicious and filling meal.
3. Chapulines: For the adventurous foodie, trying chapulines is a must in Oaxaca. These are fried grasshoppers seasoned with chili, garlic, and lime. They are a crunchy and protein-packed snack that is commonly enjoyed with a cold beer.
4. Tamales: Oaxaca is known for its delicious tamales, which are made from masa (corn dough) filled with various ingredients such as chicken, pork, cheese, or vegetables. They are wrapped in corn husks and steamed until tender. Tamales are often enjoyed as a breakfast or snack food in Oaxaca.
5. Mezcal: Oaxaca is the birthplace of mezcal, a traditional Mexican spirit made from the agave plant. Mezcal has a smoky flavor and is often sipped neat or used as a base for cocktails. There are many mezcal distilleries in Oaxaca where you can learn about the production process and sample different varieties.
6. Tlayudas: Tlayudas are a popular street food in Oaxaca. They are large, crispy tortillas topped with refried beans, cheese, meat (such as grilled beef or pork), avocado, and salsa. They are often folded in half and grilled, creating a delicious and filling meal.
7. Chapulines: For the adventurous foodie, trying chapulines is a must in Oaxaca. These are fried grasshoppers seasoned with chili, garlic, and lime. They are a crunchy and protein-packed snack that is commonly enjoyed with a cold beer.
8. Tamales: Oaxaca is known for its delicious tamales, which are made from masa (corn dough) filled with various ingredients such as chicken, pork, cheese, or vegetables. They are wrapped in corn husks and steamed until tender. Tamales are often enjoyed as a breakfast or snack food in Oaxaca.
9. Mezcal: Oaxaca is the birthplace of mezcal, a traditional Mexican spirit made from the agave plant. Mezcal has a smoky flavor and is often sipped neat or used as a base for cocktails. There are many mezcal distilleries in Oaxaca where you can learn about the production process and sample different varieties.
10. Tlayudas: Tlayudas are a popular street food in Oaxaca. They are large, crispy tortillas topped with refried beans, cheese, meat (such as grilled beef or pork), avocado, and salsa. They are often folded in half and grilled, creating a delicious and filling meal.
11. Chapulines: For the adventurous foodie, trying chapulines is a must in Oaxaca. These are fried grass
Best Time To Visit Oaxaca
The best time to visit Oaxaca, Mexico is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. During this time, the weather is pleasantly warm with little to no rainfall. The main attractions in Oaxaca, such as the archaeological sites of Monte Alban and Mitla, the colorful markets of Oaxaca City, and the beautiful beaches of Puerto Escondido and Huatulco, can be enjoyed to the fullest during the dry season. Additionally, the famous Day of the Dead celebrations take place in Oaxaca City at the end of October and beginning of November, making it an exciting time to visit. However, it is important to note that the dry season is also the peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices.
Flight Calendar For Oaxaca
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Transportation To Oaxaca
There are several transportation options to Oaxaca, Mexico.
1. By Air: The easiest and fastest way to reach Oaxaca is by flying into Oaxaca International Airport (OAX). There are direct flights from major cities in Mexico, as well as some international flights from the United States. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a shuttle to your destination in Oaxaca.
2. By Bus: Oaxaca is well-connected by bus services from various cities in Mexico. There are both luxury and regular buses available, with different companies offering services. The bus journey can take several hours, depending on the distance and the type of bus you choose.
3. By Car: If you prefer to drive, you can rent a car and drive to Oaxaca. The city is well-connected by highways, and the drive can be a scenic one, especially if you take the Oaxaca-Puebla Highway. However, be aware that driving in Mexico can be challenging, especially in larger cities.
4. By Train: Currently, there is no train service directly to Oaxaca. However, you can take a train to a nearby city like Mexico City or Puebla and then continue your journey to Oaxaca by bus or air.
Once you are in Oaxaca, there are local transportation options available, such as taxis, buses, and rental cars, to help you get around the city and explore the surrounding areas.