Itineraries for Your Trip to Oaxaca
2 Days in Oaxaca for First Timers
I arrived in Oaxaca City fresh from the Day of the Dead parades in Mexico City, which had whetted my appetite for more spooktacular celebrations in what’s hailed as the cultural center of the Dia de los Muertos festivities. But even though I’d already gotten a taste of Mexico during this magical time of year, nothing could prepare me for the stunning ofrendas (altars) and the heady atmosphere of Oaxaca. Even if your visit doesn’t coincide with Halloween, you’re sure to be equally as enchanted by two days in Oaxaca City. This 48-hour itinerary covers all of the top sights, from mezcal bars to markets.
If you only have time for one thing, make it a cooking class.
Oaxaca experiences the most rain between June and September, so visit outside of these months for the best weather.
It’s only fitting to start your time in what’s often awarded the accolade of Mexico’s food capital with a cooking class. This morning, shop for aromatic ingredients at a local market before mastering dishes such as chocolatey mole sauce and tamales at Casa Crespo, a cooking school rooted in tradition.
Now that you’ve tasted Oaxaca City’s cuisine, shift your attention to its culture on a walking tour that helps you navigate the historic center with ease. Spend your afternoon browsing stalls piled high with artisan handicrafts at Benito Juárez Market and Benito Juárez Home, the former home of Mexico’s first Indigenous president.
Tonight, sink your teeth into some of Oaxaca City’s delectable street food on an evening walking tour that reveals the zocalo (historic center) in a whole new light. See historic landmarks, such as the ornate Basílica de Nuestra Señora de la Soledad, lit up dramatically before sampling the delights of 20 de Noviembre Market, rated one of the city’s top food markets.
Dedicate your second morning to learning more about Oaxaca City’s Zapotec culture on an early excursion to the ancient former capital of Monte Albán, one of the earliest cities in the Americas. Exploring the archaeological site with a guide helps put the ruins into context, while round-trip transportation saves you the stress of taking a crowded bus.
This afternoon is all about visiting the last of Oaxaca’s must-see attractions, which include the baroque Santo Domingo de Guzmán Church, with its gleaming gold altar, and the Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca, where a collection of artifacts represents Latin America through the ages—housed in a former convent.
On your final night, treat your taste buds to two of this Mexican region’s most iconic products during a mezcal and mole tasting session led by a certified sommelier. Learn to recognize the distinct flavors of the agave spirit and rich mole sauce, renowned for having more than 20 ingredients.
