Ultimate 3-Day Oaxaca Itinerary: Best Things to Do & See
Oaxaca blends vibrant indigenous culture, colonial charm, and world-renowned cuisine in a colorful valley ringed by mountains and ancient ruins.
Day 1: Historic Oaxaca City & Culinary Delights
Morning
Start your journey at the heart of the city, Zócalo. This lively main square is surrounded by colonial architecture, street vendors, and musicians, making it the perfect spot to soak up Oaxaca’s vibrant atmosphere.
Zócalo
Head to Mercado Benito Juárez for a local breakfast of tamales or memelas, and browse stalls selling everything from spices to handmade crafts.
Mercado Benito Juárez
Afternoon
Visit the stunning Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzmán, a baroque church with gilded interiors and an impressive attached museum, set amidst lush ethnobotanical gardens.
Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzmán
For lunch, savor authentic Oaxacan mole at the beloved Casa Oaxaca El Restaurante, known for its rooftop views and creative takes on regional classics.
Casa Oaxaca El Restaurante
Evening
Stroll down the pedestrian-friendly Andador Turístico Macedonio Alcalá, lined with galleries, boutiques, and lively street performers.
Andador Turístico Macedonio Alcalá
Finish with a mezcal tasting at the cozy Mezcalería Los Amantes, a favorite for sampling artisanal mezcals in an atmospheric setting.
Mezcalería Los Amantes
Day 2: Ancient Ruins & Artisanal Villages
Morning
Start your day exploring Monte Albán, an awe-inspiring Zapotec archaeological site with panoramic valley views and ancient stone temples.
Monte Albán
Afternoon
Visit the craft village of San Bartolo Coyotepec, renowned for its unique black pottery. Tour local workshops and discover the ancient techniques behind this Oaxacan art.
San Bartolo Coyotepec
Lunch at Azucena Zapoteca in nearby San Martín Tilcajete, an inviting spot to try traditional dishes surrounded by colorful alebrije workshops.
Azucena Zapoteca
Evening
Stop by Ex Convento de Cuilápam de Guerrero, a hauntingly beautiful 16th-century open-air convent with towering arches and fascinating history.
Ex Convento de Cuilápam de Guerrero
Return to Oaxaca City and enjoy an al fresco dinner at El Quinta Real, set in a former convent with magical evening ambiance and Oaxacan specialties.
El Quinta Real
Day 3: Nature, Textiles & Street Food
Morning
Journey out to Hierve el Agua, a surreal natural wonder with petrified waterfalls and turquoise mineral pools perched atop the mountains—perfect for a morning hike and swim.
Hierve el Agua
Afternoon
Stop in Teotitlán del Valle, a Zapotec village famed for its handwoven rugs and natural dyes, where you can watch artisans at work and shop for textiles directly from family workshops.
Teotitlán del Valle
Enjoy a home-cooked lunch at Tlamanalli, a cozy Zapotec-run restaurant renowned for its traditional recipes and warm hospitality.
Tlamanalli
Evening
Back in Oaxaca, discover the flavors of the city at Mercado 20 de Noviembre, a bustling market famed for its tlayudas, grilled meats, and irresistible chocolate.
Mercado 20 de Noviembre
End your adventure at La Mezcalerita, a laid-back bar with an extensive selection of mezcals and local craft beers—the perfect toast to an unforgettable trip.
La Mezcalerita
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