Is Oaxaca de Juarez worth visiting?
Yes, Oaxaca de Juarez is worth visiting for a number of reasons. This is a city that everyone should explore, and we loved our time here.
Whether you're a traveling as a family, a couple, or a backpacker, this city has a lot to offer. Any local will tell you what makes it special is the amazing museums and attractions and fantastic food.
Oaxaca is the largest city in a state of the same name. It is a city that is rich in history and culture, and it's listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are many colonial and ancient sites both in town and nearby. The city also has a long culinary tradition with many local flavors.
Oaxaca de Juarez, Mexico
6 Reasons to Visit Oaxaca de Juarez
1. Museums and Attractions
There are many museums and historical sights in the city and nearby. The Oaxaca Cathedral is located on the city's main square, Zocalo. Also worth visiting is the Church of Santo Domingo de Guzmán and the Basilica of Our Lady of Solitude. Just a few kilometers outside of the city is the historic settlement of Monte Albán as well as the Ex-Monastery of Santiago Apóstol. Also check out the Rufino Tamayo Museum and Museo Casa Juárez.
2. Food
This is a city for foodies. Of all the destinations in Mexico, this one always tops the list for its cuisine. The food is influenced by traditional ingredients like corn and many of the recipes have been passed on through the generations. Local dishes include mole, Oaxaca cheese, coloradito, and tlayudas.
3. Historical Sights
The historic center is filled with colonial Spanish architecture. It's laid out in a grid pattern and there are many historic monuments. The surrounding region also has a history that dates back 1500 years.
4. Shopping
The region's indigenous populations are known for the artisan crafts and handmade items. Many visitors enjoy shopping at the city's markets, where you'll find handmade ceramics, hand blown glassware, and more.
5. Nightlife
The nightlife scene starts late in the evening and can continue into the early hours. Many people meet up around Oaxaca Zocalo and it's very lively in the evenings. You'll often find live music and a fun atmosphere. As the night progresses, many people make their way to Santo Domingo, which is where you'll find a number of bars and clubs.
6. The Costs
Depending on your budget, schedule, and travel style, Oaxaca de Juarez might be a very affordable destination for you. Check out the travel costs for Oaxaca de Juarez here or see if Oaxaca de Juarez is expensive here.
Things to Consider Before Visiting Oaxaca de Juarez
Not As Family-Friendly
While there are some family activities, it's not as child-friendly as other destinations.
Related
What is Oaxaca de Juarez most famous for?
Oaxaca de Juarez is most famous for its indigenous cultures, historic center, and excellent food scene. People visit this impressive city for its great museums and attractions, food, historical sights, and shopping. It is also known for its great nightlife. It is often described as historic, cultural, authentic, and traditional.
What is the most famous sight in Oaxaca de Juarez?
The most popular sight in Oaxaca de Juarez is Mercado Benito Juárez. You can see prices and costs for this and other sights in Oaxaca de Juarez on our travel costs page.
Or, see tickets, activities, and tours for Mercado Benito Juárez and other attractions here.
How touristy is Oaxaca de Juarez? Is it a popular city to visit?
Oaxaca de Juarez is a popular city for tourists and travelers. Here are some of the most popular activities and tours. (Prices in US Dollars)
- Bike tour to the Tule Tree and the Gastronomic Market: $30
- Monte Albán, Black Pottery and Alebrijes Full Day Tour.: $44
- Oaxaca City Walking Tour - Markets, Textile museum & Lunch: $59
- Crafts & Cuisine All Included Guided Day Tour from Oaxaca: $189
- Experience the Mezcal Tour in Oaxaca: $100
- Private Professional Tour Guide in Oaxaca 3 hours - Best Rated: $44
- Boil the Water and Mitla Mezcal Tour: $72
- Cacao day experience from the wood to your cup!: $167
How long should I spend in Oaxaca de Juarez?
The ideal length of time for a trip to Oaxaca de Juarez is two to five days. Since Oaxaca de Juarez has a variety of activities such as shopping, museums and attractions, dining, and historical sights, most people need this much time to see and do everything here.
If you have a specific amount of time for your trip, see our advice about how much time to spend here: Should I spend 1, 2, or 3 days in Oaxaca de Juarez?, Should I spend 3, 4, or 5 days in Oaxaca de Juarez?, and Should I spend 1 or 2 weeks in Oaxaca de Juarez?.
For guided and organized tour options, check out The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Mexico and The Best Historical Tours in Mexico.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.