Discover what to do in Oaxaca, a feast for your senses
In the heart of Oaxaca, a destination that awakens the senses, every neighborhood and alley tells a unique story, and every corner is an invitation to discover the cultural richness that characterizes this land. From the cobblestone streets that tell ancient stories to the aromas of tradition and color that fill the air, Oaxaca is a melting pot of fascinating experiences. If you’re looking for things to do in Oaxaca, you can start by exploring the Guelaguetza dance, celebrating local diversity through the authentic flavors of its cuisine, and admiring the handicrafts found in colorful markets.
Immerse yourself in history by visiting archaeological sites and enjoy the magic of its festivals.
Neighborhoods that fill Oaxaca with life
In the heart of Oaxaca, neighborhoods reveal themselves as small treasures that enclose the richness of history, culture, and everyday life. These neighborhoods, with their cobblestone streets and picturesque architecture, bear witness to the city’s evolution over the centuries.
Carmen Alto, a Quiet and Cultural Retreat
This neighborhood, where colonial architecture meets lush courtyards, invites contemplation and relaxation. Enjoy its shaded plazas and discover small cultural gems, such as museums and galleries, that reveal Oaxaca’s rich history.
La Noria, between Tradition and Gastronomy
Discover its markets filled with local produce and enjoy authentic Oaxacan dishes in its quaint restaurants. La Noria is a feast for the senses, where local flavors and hospitality immerse you in the culinary essence of Oaxaca.
Jalatlaco, a Journey Through Time
Stroll through the cobblestone streets of Jalatlaco, a neighborhood that seems frozen in time. Its old mansions and plazas transport you back in time, while its cozy cafes and restaurants blend the classic with the contemporary.
Where the Alley resides: Xochimilco
In this neighborhood, you’ll discover El Callejón, our boutique hotel that blends harmoniously with the creativity and authenticity of Xochimilco, where traditional arts flourish and intertwine with the city’s essence. Vibrant markets and artisan workshops offer a unique immersion in local crafts, from vibrant alebrijes to masterfully woven textiles.
Artistic Journey, a trip through the museums of Oaxaca
Manuel Álvarez Bravo Photography Center
Each photographic exhibition is a window into the daily life, the ephemeral beauty, and the unique cultural expressions of Oaxaca, and the Manuel Álvarez Bravo Photographic Center is a testament to this.
Located in a 19th-century building, the museum houses a collection of more than 30,000 photographs, including works by Manuel Álvarez Bravo, one of Mexico’s most important photographers.
The collection also includes works by other Mexican and international photographers.
Textile Museum of Oaxaca
This museum, dedicated to the preservation and dissemination of Oaxacan textile art, has become a sanctuary where threads tell stories that have endured throughout time.
Located in an 18th-century colonial building, the museum features a collection of more than 10,000 pieces of textiles, including traditional garments, rugs, tablecloths, and other objects. The collection represents the diversity of Oaxacan textile techniques and styles.
Each piece on display is a testament to human patience and skill, creating a sensorial journey that connects with cultural roots and the intrinsic art of weaving.
Museum of Cultures of Oaxaca
The Museum of Oaxacan Cultures is one of the most important museums in Mexico. It is located in the former Convent of Santo Domingo, a historic building from the 16th century.
Here, history comes alive in every exhibition. Its galleries are like chapters in an ancient book, narrating the rich and diverse cultural heritage of the region. Here you will find a collection of more than 40,000 archaeological pieces, representing the history and culture of the pre-Hispanic peoples who inhabited Oaxaca. The collection includes pieces from the Zapotec, Mixtec, Olmec, and Mixtec cultures.
Oaxaca through its flavors
Bacanora Grill
This restaurant offers a fusion of Oaxacan and Mexican cuisine, with a focus on regional produce. The menu includes dishes such as mole negro with beef ribs, tlayudas with grasshoppers, and shrimp in mezcal. The restaurant has a modern and elegant atmosphere, and the service is first-class.
Oaxaca Cathedral
This restaurant is located in a historic building in downtown Oaxaca. The menu includes a variety of traditional Oaxacan dishes, as well as a wine and mezcal list. The restaurant has an elegant and sophisticated atmosphere, and the service is first-class.
Zandunga Isthmus Flavor
Zandunga Sabor Istmeño restaurant is an excellent choice for those seeking an authentic culinary experience in the Xochimilco neighborhood. The restaurant offers Isthmus cuisine, one of the richest and most diverse in Oaxaca.
The restaurant’s menu includes a variety of traditional dishes from the region, such as chipilín tamales, tasajo, Isthmus mole, and drinks like pozol and tejate. The ingredients used in the restaurant’s cuisine are fresh and seasonal, sourced from small producers in the region.
