Oaxaca stands out for its culinary richness and archeological treasures, which are reasons why it is a key tourist destination in Mexico during 2026. If you are planning a trip, here you will find the necessary information to enjoy an unforgettable vacation.
Thanks to its wide range of entertainment and culture, it is the perfect place for those looking for a destination worth returning to time and again.
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What places to visit in Oaxaca in 2026?
Temple of Santo Domingo de Guzmán
The Temple of Santo Domingo de Guzmán is one of the main tourist attractions in Oaxaca and a symbol of the historic center. This majestic convent stands out for its Baroque architecture, its historical value, and its location on the Andador Turístico, one of the most visited areas by national and international travelers.
Built between the 16th and 17th centuries, the Temple of Santo Domingo de Guzmán is considered one of the most important architectural gems in Mexico. Its interior stands out for the golden details, frescoes, and religious elements that reflect the colonial legacy of Oaxaca. This venue is part of the city’s cultural heritage and is a must-visit for those looking to learn about the state’s history.
- Location: C. Macedonio Alcalá s/n, Centro, Oaxaca de Juárez, Oaxaca.
- Days and hours: Monday to Saturday | 9:30 AM to 1:00 PM and 4:30 PM to 7:00 PM.
*Closed on Sundays. - Cost: Free.
Museum of the Cultures of Oaxaca
The Museum of the Cultures of Oaxaca is one of the main tourist attractions in the historic center of Oaxaca. Located in the Ex-Convent of Santo Domingo de Guzmán, it houses more than 14,000 archeological, historical, and ethnographic pieces, including the treasure of Monte Albán.
The venue has 14 permanent rooms and nine thematic rooms dedicated to traditional activities such as pottery, goldsmithing, leatherworking, and Oaxacan cuisine. It is under the administration of the National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH) and was recognized as a regional museum in 1972.
- Location: 1a. Cerrada de Macedonio Alcala s/n, RUTA INDEPENDENCIA, Centro, Oaxaca de Juárez, Oaxaca.
- Days and hours: Tuesday to Sunday | 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
*closed on Mondays. - Cost:
- General admission: $5.62 dollars.
- Under 13 years old, students, teachers, and senior citizens: Free.
Neighborhood of Jalatlaco
The Neighborhood of Jalatlaco is one of the must-visit places in Oaxaca. Located just a few blocks from the historic center, this destination combines cobblestone streets, colonial adobe and cantera houses, urban art murals, galleries, cafes, and restaurants.
In 2023, it was recognized as a Magical Neighborhood by the Tourism Secretariat, thanks to its historical, cultural, and gastronomic wealth. Its origin dates back to 1486 and it is part of the city’s historical monuments zone.
What to do in the Jalatlaco Neighborhood?
- Visit the San Matías Jalatlaco temple, built in the 17th century.
- Wander thru its streets and discover murals and graffiti by local artists.
- Explore contemporary art galleries.
- Enjoy Oaxacan coffee in its specialty cafes.
The Jalatlaco neighborhood is ideal for walking, taking photographs, and experiencing the artistic atmosphere that distinguishes Oaxaca as one of the most attractive tourist destinations in Mexico.
Xochimilco
The Xochimilco Neighborhood is one of the oldest and most authentic neighborhoods to visit in Oaxaca de Juárez. Founded in 1486, its name comes from Nahuatl and means “place of flowers”, reflecting its cultural, artistic, and traditional richness.
This neighborhood was established by order of the Aztec emperor Ahuítzotl, who sent Xochimilco settlers to settle in the area. Since then, Xochimilco has become a center of crafts, artisanal work, and traditions that are still preserved in its colonial streets.
What to do in the Xochimilco Neighborhood?
- Strolling thru cobblestone streets with colonial architecture.
- Visit artisan workshops and art galleries.
- Enjoy the local cuisine, such as Oaxacan chocolate and egg yolk bread.
- Take photographs of their colorful facades and murals.
The Xochimilco Neighborhood is a must-visit destination for those looking to discover the history, culture, and traditional essence of Oaxaca.
Zócalo
The Zócalo is the heart of Oaxaca de Juárez and an essential destination for tourists and locals. Surrounded by terraces and cafes, it offers an authentic experience where you can enjoy a refreshing tejate, mezcal, or local cuisine while observing the daily life of the city.
The cathedral that dominates the square is a prominent example of the New Spanish Baroque architectural style. The Zócalo is part of the Historic Center of Oaxaca, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987, along with the Archeological Zone of Monte Albán. This recognition highlights the preservation of the 16th-century colonial urban layout, its colonial architecture, and its cultural richness spanning over four centuries.
What to do in the Zócalo of Oaxaca?
- Enjoy the local cuisine: more than 70 options of traditional food and drink, including tejate and mezcal.
- Explore the historical architecture: walk around the cathedral and the colonial buildings that surround the square.
- Living the Oaxacan culture: events, music, and crafts are showcased daily in the square.
- Photography and stroll: admire the colors, nature, murals, and urban life of the historic center.
The Zócalo of Oaxaca is not just a square; it is a space that combines history, culture, and tradition, becoming a unique place to connect with the essence of the city and experience the authentic Oaxacan experience.
Monte Albán
Monte Albán, located at the top of a mountain, is one of the most important archeological sites in Mexico and the former capital of the Zapotec culture. This site offers panoramic views and a journey thru the pre-Hispanic history of Oaxaca.
Founded between 500 and 100 B.C., Monte Albán developed over three hills: Monte Albán, El Gallo, and Bonete (Atzompa). Its first inhabitants took advantage of the soil’s fertility, bodies of water, and vegetation, establishing population centers that later expanded during the pre-Hispanic era.
- Location: Road to Monte Albán, 68000 Oaxaca de Juárez, Oaxaca.
- Days and hours: Monday to Sunday | 08:00 to 17:00 hrs (last entry at 16:00 hrs).
- Cost: $5.62 dollars (includes museum visit).
*Sunday free entry for Mexicans.
Services: on-site museum, temporary exhibitions, guided tours, restaurant, bookstore, and parking.
Boiling Water
Hierve el Agua, located in the Sierra de Oaxaca, is an essential natural and archeological destination. Recognized as a possible sacred site of the ancient Zapotecs, it stands out for its petrified waterfalls, natural pools, and a pre-Hispanic irrigation system that is still preserved.
The main attraction of Hierve el Agua is its two petrified waterfalls: the first one is 30 meters tall and the second one is 12 meters tall, formed by the runoff of carbonated water. This water creates new stone layers as it falls into a gorge over 200 meters deep.
In the area known as “The Amphitheater”, there are natural pools ideal for admiring the waterfalls and enjoying a relaxing bath in warm water, with temperatures ranging between 22 and 25 °C.
What to see and do in Hierve el Agua?
- Natural pools: enjoy baths in pools with a temperature of 22 to 25°C.
- Hiking and cycling: explore the area of the pre-Hispanic irrigation system while admiring the waterfalls and mountainous landscape.
- Services: bathrooms, changing rooms, palapas, eateries, and cabins equipped for lodging.
- What to bring?: swimsuit, sneakers, sunscreen, and a change of clothes for the bathroom.
- Best time: low season or rainy season (June to August) to appreciate new waterfalls.
Details
- Location: Hierve el Agua, 70477 Oaxaca de Juárez, Oaxaca.
- Days and hours: Monday to Sunday | 7:00 AM to 6:30 PM.
- Cost:
- First ejido: $0.56 cents per person.
- Admission: $1.41 dollars per person.
- Bathrooms: $0.17 cents per person.
- Showers: $0.84 cents per person.
- Camping: $2.81 dollars per person.
- Cabins: $11.24 dollars per person.
Read more: What to do in Hidalgo in 2026? Tourist spots, museums, and must-try dishes
The 17 Best Beaches in Oaxaca You Must Visit
Oaxaca is a coastal paradise with incredible beaches that combine natural beauty, surfing, tranquility, and marine life. Here we present the 17 beaches of Oaxaca that you can’t miss, from west to east, to plan your travel route.
Must-Visit Beaches in Oaxaca:
- Zicatela Beach
Famous for surfing and giant waves. - La Punta
Ideal for surfers and a relaxed nightlife. - Carrizalillo
Small cove with crystal-clear waters and a tranquil atmosphere. - Marinero Beach
Perfect for swimming and resting on the golden sand. - Punta Colorada
Destination for those seeking landscapes and tranquility. - San Agustinillo
Family-friendly beach with a relaxed atmosphere and local restaurants. - Mazunte
Known for its ecotourism and the Mexican Turtle Center. - Mermejita
Isolated and tranquil, ideal for relaxing away from crowds. - Punta Cometa
Highest point on the coast to see spectacular sunsets. - Zipolite
Nude beach and bohemian atmosphere, very popular among international tourists. - Puerto Ángel
Fishing port with golden sandy beaches and calm sea. - El Violín Beach
Ideal for swimming and snorkeling. - Bahía San Agustín
Sea turtle sanctuary and ecotourism activities. - La Entrega Beach
Destination for surfing and observing marine life. - Conejos Bay
Quiet beach with calm waters and beautiful sunsets. - Chahué Beach
Close to Huatulco, with soft sands and tourist services. - Arrocito Beach
Small and secluded, perfect for enjoying privacy and nature.
Read more: Discover Jalisco, Mexico: must-visit destinations and the best Mexican dishes in 2026
What dishes to enjoy in Oaxaca?
Oaxacan cuisine is recognized throughout Mexico for its richness, diversity of flavors, and history. In 2010, the gastronomy of Oaxaca was declared an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO, thanks to its pre-Hispanic and mestizo heritage that is still reflected in its dishes and beverages.
The cuisine of Oaxaca is based on three essential ingredients: corn, beans, and chili, complemented with cocoa, tomato, squash, and even insects. During the colonial period, European spices and proteins such as pork, chicken, and beef were incorporated, enriching the regional cuisine. This blend of cultures created unique flavors that today distinguish Oaxaca.
Typical dishes of Oaxaca
Tlayuda
One of the most emblematic dishes of Oaxaca, the tlayuda, consists of a large, crispy corn tortilla, accompanied by beans, tasajo, avocado, cabbage, cheese, chorizo, grasshoppers, or shrimp. It is ideal to enjoy in local markets and traditional restaurants.
Chicatanas
The chicatanas, leaf-cutting ants, are a Oaxacan delicacy that is consumed in season. They can be eaten roasted, in tacos, mole, or sauces, offering a crunchy and concentrated flavor that represents the pre-Hispanic cuisine of the region.
Mezcal
Oaxaca mezcal is the most representative drink of the state and a key product for the local economy. With a wide variety of aromas and flavors, its production supports entire families in the region, consolidating the artisanal tradition and its international recognition.
Zapotec Gastronomy of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec
Zapotec cuisine combines pre-Hispanic and mestizo ingredients, offering dishes such as:
- Scrambled eggs with shrimp heads
- Dried shrimp mole
- Rice with beef
- Stuffed onions
- Pork with corn
- Beef tongue jerky
- Bean mole
- Beef tamales
- Iguana prepared in different ways
This variety reflects the cultural and culinary richness of Oaxaca, inviting locals and tourists to taste authentic Oaxacan food.
Oaxaca stands out for its combination of history, gastronomy, culture, and nature, making it one of the most complete destinations in the country. From archeological sites like Monte Albán to traditional markets and historical monuments, the city offers experiences for all types of travelers.
Moreover, its gastronomy, considered Intangible Cultural Heritage, and its authentic atmosphere attract thousands of tourists to Oaxaca each year.
