The Best 6 Day Oaxaca Itinerary – A Complete Guide ‍

Making Your Travel Plans for Oaxaca

Oh, you’re lovely Oaxaca City, one of Mexico’s hidden gems amid the country’s rich tapestry of tradition, culture, and culinary delights. Oaxaca City, located in the south of the nation, is home to a wealth of experiences just waiting to be discovered. This Oaxaca itinerary is for you if you’re looking for a place that’s off the beaten path but full of authenticity. As we go off on a 6-day tour across this amazing city, let me be your guide and teacher.

Oaxaca City is a legitimate candidate for UNESCO World Heritage designation. Pre-Hispanic, colonial, and modern elements all coexist in harmony throughout the city. It is a visual spectacle because of its winding cobblestone alleys, vibrant marketplaces, and impressive colonial buildings. Oaxaca City is more than simply a visual treat, though. It is a sensory experience that will leave you wanting more thanks to its distinctive cuisine, vibrant culture, and friendly residents.

You’ll learn why this city is a favorite among travelers looking for a wholly immersive cultural experience as we go deeper into our Oaxaca itinerary. Oaxaca City promises a trip of a lifetime with its vibrant marketplaces, renowned gastronomy, and astounding art and culture.

Oaxaca Itinerary

Let’s make sure we have a solid Oaxaca itinerary before starting our tour. A well-planned schedule ensures that you make the most of your time while also allowing you to appreciate Oaxaca City’s rich diversity and complexity.

First, think about your interests. Are you a fan of nature, history, or delicious food? You might be all three. There is something for everyone in Oaxaca City. Put your hobbies first, but leave room for new experiences as well. The appeal of travel lies in accepting the unexpected and stepping outside your comfort zone.

Then, account for some downtime. While it may be tempting to cram in as many activities as you can, keep in mind that traveling is also about unwinding and reviving. Plan some time for leisurely strolls, people-watching in the zocalo, or just taking in the atmosphere of the city.

Also important is adaptability. Even though having a plan is vital, being open to impromptu modifications can result in some of the most memorable experiences. Let’s start our 6-day Oaxaca trip right away.

Day 1: Exploring Oaxaca City’s Center

The goal of our first day in Oaxaca City is to fully immerse ourselves in the lively energy of the city. The ideal spot to begin is the Zocalo, Oaxaca’s central square. You can feel the energy of the city here as both residents and tourists congregate for mingling, shopping, and dining.

Spend some time exploring the Santo Domingo Church, a magnificent illustration of Baroque design. Its extravagant interior, which has gold leaf and dexterous carvings, is stunning. The Ethnobotanical Garden, a quiet oasis showcasing the area’s varied plant life, is next to the church.

As the day comes to a close, stroll down the pedestrian-only Andador Turistico, which is filled with shops, restaurants, and art galleries. Traditional Oaxacan cuisine can be sampled here, along with native crafts and live street performances.

Book a guided day tour of the historic Oaxaca city center

Day 2: Investigating the Oaxacan Culinary Scene

Our second day in Oaxaca takes us on a gastronomy tour. We’ll find out why Oaxaca is referred to as the “land of seven moles” today. Visit the Mercado 20 de Noviembre, a lively market where you may try a variety of Oaxacan specialties, first thing in the morning.

Try the tlayudas, often known as Oaxacan pizza, as soon as you can. A sizable, crispy tortilla is the base of this classic dish, which is then topped with beans, cheese, and the meat of your choice. Enjoy the corn-based pudding, nicuatole, for dessert.

Think about enrolling in a culinary class in the afternoon. It’s a great chance to discover the complex flavors and cooking methods of Oaxacan food. In addition, you’ll finish with a great home-cooked lunch!

Here are some of my recommended Oaxacan Culinary Experiences!

Day 3: Oaxacan Culture and Art

We get to explore Oaxaca City’s thriving art and cultural scene on our third day there. Start your day by admiring contemporary works of art by regional and international artists at the Museo de Arte Contemporaneo de Oaxaca (MACO).

Next, go to the Francisco Toledo-founded Instituto de Artes Graficas de Oaxaca (IAGO). This organization often offers workshops and exhibitions in addition to housing an excellent collection of graphic arts.

Attend a performance at the Teatro Macedonio Alcala to cap off the day. From classical concerts to traditional dance performances, this lovely neoclassical theater presents a range of cultural activities. It’s the ideal approach to becoming fully immersed in Oaxaca’s extensive creative legacy.

Dont miss out on these unique Oaxacan Culture and Art classes & tours

Day 4: Oaxaca’s Natural Beauty and Adventure

On day four, we depart the city and travel through the breathtaking natural settings of Oaxaca. Hierve el Agua, a collection of organic rock formations that resemble rushing waterfalls, must be visited. Additionally, the location has mineral pools where you can relax while taking in the amazing views.

Next, proceed to Monte Alban, a former Zapotec settlement. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is perched on a hill and provides stunning valley vistas as well as an intriguing look into Oaxaca’s pre-Hispanic past.

Finally, pay a visit to the Tule Tree to cap off the day. This enormous tree has one of the largest trunk diameters in the entire globe and is thought to be more than 2,000 years old. It is a marvel of nature because of its size and age.

Day 5: Oaxaca itinerary of the City’s Historical Sites

On the fifth day of our trip to Oaxaca, we explore the vibrant city’s past. Visit the Basilica of Our Lady of Soledad first thing in the morning. This church from the 17th century is a magnificent example of Spanish colonial architecture and is devoted to the patron saint of Oaxaca.

Visit the Oaxaca Museum of Cultures next. This museum, housed in a medieval monastery, provides a thorough overview of the varied cultures and history of Oaxaca. Keep an eye out for the Mixtec treasure, a collection of gold objects discovered in a Mixtec king’s tomb.

Last but not least, stroll leisurely through Calle de los Sapos, well known as the “Street of the Frogs.” The colonial-style homes, quaint cafés, and antique stores that line this attractive boulevard are well known.

Day 6: Last-minute shopping and relaxation before leaving Oaxaca

As our time in Oaxaca comes to an end, we use our final day for relaxation and last-minute shopping to close your ultimate Oaxaca Itinerary. Visit the Mercado de Artesanias to find a large selection of regional pottery, textiles, and crafts. It’s the ideal location to buy a few trinkets to keep as memories of your journey.

After you’ve finished shopping, go to the tranquil Parque Juarez El Llano to unwind under the canopy of its many trees. A traditional Oaxacan massage or a temazcal, a pre-Hispanic steam bath, are other options.

Enjoy one more supper at one of Oaxaca City’s numerous top-notch restaurants as the sun sets. Take a moment to think back on the fantastic experiences you’ve had over the previous six days as you enjoy the flavors of Oaxacan cuisine.

Getting the Most Out of Your Oaxaca Itinerary

To get the most out of your trip to Oaxaca City, make sure your itinerary is thoroughly thought out. Pace yourself and plan some downtime to unwind and take in the city’s ambience. Be open to impromptu alterations to your plans because they can result in life-changing experiences.

Be mindful of the changing weather in Oaxaca City when selecting your travel attire. Pack several layers and comfortable walking shoes. Furthermore, although Oaxaca City is generally a safe city, it is recommended that you use common sense safety precautions, such as locking your possessions at night and avoiding lonely areas.

Additional Guides to Mexico

• Interesting Facts about Mexico You Probably Didn’t Know
• The Best Mexico Tourist Attractions
• My Oaxaca Guides
• The 17 Best Mayan Ruins in Mexico + Archaeological Sites

Reviewing Your Oaxaca Experience in Conclusion

As we come to an end with our tour of Oaxaca, I hope you have a greater understanding of this magnificent city. Oaxaca City offers a fully complete travel experience that is unmatched, from its vibrant culture and gastronomy to its rich history and breathtaking surroundings.

I hope that as you think back on your time in Oaxaca, you’ll keep the memories and lessons you learned with you even after you’ve left the city’s boundaries. Who knows, though? Maybe this guide has motivated you to visit Oaxaca City again for another wonderful experience. Until then, have a safe journey!

FAQ – Oaxaca Itinerary