Oaxaca is a bustling city full of art, culture, and history that is tucked away in the heart of southern Mexico. Oaxaca provides visitors wishing to fully immerse themselves in Mexico’s artistic and cultural landscape with a memorable experience. It is well-known for its rich indigenous heritage, vibrant festivals, and delectable cuisine. This seven-day tour will assist you in discovering the spirit of Oaxaca, offering in-depth analyses and data to guarantee a thorough comprehension of this amazing city.
Day 1: Welcome and Overview of Oaxaca
Arrival and Check-in in the morning
Arrive at Oaxaca International Airport to start your journey. The city has excellent connections to both foreign locations and major Mexican cities. After you’ve checked into your hotel, sit back and enjoy the lively scene for a little.
Zócalo and Alameda de León in the afternoon
Begin your trip at Oaxaca’s busy main square, the Zócalo. The Zócalo is the center of the city, surrounded by structures from the colonial era, cafes, and street sellers. Alameda de León is a nice park close by that’s ideal for a leisurely stroll.
Typical Oaxacan Dinner in the Evening
Savor the delectable cuisine of Oaxaca by having a traditional dinner at a nearby restaurant. Chapulines (grasshoppers), tlayudas, and moles are well worth trying. Foodies will find Oaxaca to be a culinary haven due to its diverse range of cuisines.
Day 2: Visiting Oaxacan Artisans and Markets
Benito Juárez Marketplace in the Morning
Explore Mercado Benito Juárez, one of the busiest and oldest markets in Oaxaca. Everything from local crafts and fresh fruit to traditional fabrics and pottery may be found here. Talk to the local vendors and discover the value of their handicrafts.
Visit to the Santo Domingo Cultural Center in the afternoon
For those who enjoy art and history, a trip to the Santo Domingo Cultural Center is essential. The institution, which is housed in a former convent, has displays on pre-Columbian items, modern art, and Oaxacan history. The natural plants of the area are on display in the botanical garden that is adjacent.
Art Galleries in the Historic Center in the Evening
There are many art galleries in Oaxaca that feature the creations of regional artists. Explore these galleries in the evening; they frequently showcase both modern and traditional Oaxacan artwork. Galería Quetzalli and Galería Arte de Oaxaca are two notable galleries.
Day 3: Examining Native American Culture
Archaeological Site of Monte Albán in the Morning
One of the most important archeological sites in Mexico, Monte Albán, is a short drive from the city and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The historic capital of the Zapotec people provides amazing views and fascinating insights into pre-Columbian culture.
San Bartolo Coyotepec in the afternoon
See the neighboring community of San Bartolo Coyotepec, which is well-known for its negro ceramics. The skilled craftspeople in the area are delighted to share their centuries-old craft with you. Acquire some ceramics as a treasured memento.
Evening Performance of Guelaguetza
The Guelaguetza festival, a colorful celebration of Oaxacan culture with traditional music, dancing, and costumes, is not to be missed if you’re coming in July. There are still performances at places like the Teatro Macedonio Alcalá while the festival isn’t in session.
Day 4: Teotitlan del Valle
Textile Traditions and Mezcal in the Morning
Go to the village of Teotitlan del Valle, which is well-known for its elaborate textiles. View weavers of carpets made with natural colors and traditional techniques at family-run workshops. The artistry and commitment to maintaining these methods are incredibly motivating.
Tour of the Mezcal Distillery in the Afternoon
The traditional Mexican spirit mezcal originated in Oaxaca. Visit a nearby mezcal distillery for a tour to discover the entire production process, from agave harvesting to distillation. Savor a taste to recognize the variety of flavors of mezcal.
Dinner in a Mezcalería in the evening
Dine at a mezcalería, a bar that specializes in mezcal, to cap off the day. Try many mezcal kinds with your meal and take in the vibrant atmosphere. Mezcaloteca and Los Amantes Mezcalería are two well-liked locations.
Day 5: Culinary delights and artistic enclaves
Visit to San Agustín Etla in the morning
The Centro de las Artes de San Agustín (CASA), an art institution housed in a magnificently renovated textile factory, is located in San Agustín Etla. Take in the beautiful surroundings, galleries, and workshops. You could even like to take part in an art workshop.
Lunch at a Traditional Oaxacan Restaurant in the afternoon
Savor classic foods such as tamales, fresh tortillas, and mole negro during a leisurely meal at a restaurant. Because of the strong indigenous roots of Oaxaca’s culinary legacy, each meal is a cultural encounter.
Tour of Street Art in the Evening
Vibrant graffiti and paintings decorate Oaxaca’s streets, reflecting the city’s thriving art scene. Learn about the artists and the political and social messages underlying their creations by going on a guided street art tour. This is a special opportunity to witness the inventiveness of the city.
Day 6: Oaxacan Highlands: Nature and Crafts
Breakfast in Hierve el Agua
Take a day excursion to Hierve el Agua, a natural wonder with mineral-rich pools and petrified waterfalls. This location is ideal for a cool swim or a beautiful hike, and it offers breathtaking views of the Oaxacan mountains.
Mitla Archaeological Site in the afternoon
Make a stop at Mitla, another important archeological site, on your way back. Mitla was a religious hub for the Zapotec and Mixtec civilizations and is renowned for its elaborate stone mosaics. The site offers a more profound comprehension of the prehistoric cultures of Oaxaca.
Return to Oaxaca City in the evening.
Return to Oaxaca City after a day of exploration, then unwind for the evening. For a taste of modern Oaxacan food, try dining at one of the city’s well-known restaurants, including Casa Oaxaca or Pitiona.
Day 7: Goodbye, Oaxaca
Last-minute Museum Visits and Shopping in the Morning
Take advantage of your last morning to visit any galleries or museums that you may have missed, such the Textile Museum of Oaxaca or the Museum of Oaxacan Cultures. Make some last-minute purchases of ceramics, mezcal, and textiles as mementos.
Lunch of farewell in the Afternoon
At a nearby restaurant, have a farewell lunch while thinking back on the events of the last week. The warmth and rich culture of Oaxaca will stay with you forever.
Go out in the Evening
With a heart full of memories and a greater understanding of Mexico’s rich creative and cultural legacy, depart from Oaxaca International Airport.
Oaxaca is a fascinating travel destination for anyone interested in art and culture because of its distinctive fusion of indigenous customs, colonial influences, and modern inventiveness. This all-inclusive itinerary for a week-long tour of the city’s numerous aspects guarantees an unforgettable and enriching experience.
