Oaxaca : The most authentic city in Mexico

It was a wonderful discovery for us and one of our favorite cities in Mexico.

We had a big crush on this city, really it is a destination not to be missed on your itinerary !

Oaxaca is the city we found most typical, it is colourful and warm.

The city center is beautiful, we spent hours walking around and taking pictures !

Oaxaca city is a great place to live. Far from the crowded city centers, and from an increased pollution. The atmosphere is much quieter and the inhabitants are adorable !

Credit Photo : Nomadic Matt

A typical city centre

As for the beauty of the place, we were really impressed by the city center. The Zocalo (main square) has a friendly atmosphere. Shopkeepers surround the square and are not in a hurry to sell you something at any price. The park is very pleasant, and you will find the beautiful "Metropolitana" cathedral (don't hesitate to visit it, it is free).

Typical restaurants will offer you the opportunity to have a drink, or to eat a typical dish of the region in a peaceful atmosphere.

Credit Photo : El Economista

As you move away from the square you will discover colourful streets and beautiful murals that give a lot of charm to this town.

To talk about what to do in the city, here are many ideas :

Visit the city center and its colourful streets

El Jardín Etnobotánico (note that visits are only possible in the morning with a guide)

Credit Photo : Que Pasa Oaxaca

Tasting of a local hot chocolate

Credit Photo : Travel Await

A region rich in activities

For our last day in Oaxaca, we decided to discover the region with an organised tour (the "Oaxaca Magica") by Lescas Co Tours and we loved it !

We recommend the tour 100%, very good value for money and time (knowing that all the places were quite far from each other).

Moreover, we could leave all our stuff in the transport during the day and the driver even dropped us at the bus station in the evening to take our bus !

On the other hand, the entrance fees were not included, so you have to count them in addition.

You will also have to count your lunch. The tour includes a stop at a local restaurant with an all-you-can-eat buffet.

We paid 180 pesos (9€) per person.

You can of course plan your own lunch if you wish to remove this cost from your day.

➡ Price : 500 pesos (25€) per person.

➡ Website : https://toursinoaxaca.com/

What we did :

Hierve el Agua : These petrified waterfalls in the mountains are a breathtaking sight. "Hierve el Agua" means "water that muddies" in spanish. Due to this phenomenon, you will also be able to observe and enjoy the formation of "pools" of natural water to refresh yourself.

➡ Entrance fee : 70 pesos (3,50€) per person.

Credit Photo : Robert Harding Credit Photo : Wokii

El Arbol del Tule : If you have the opportunity, we recommend you to go see this tree which is truly beautiful and majestic. The tree is just huge, we were amazed ! The diameter of its trunk is about 14.4 meters and its precise age is unknown, estimates range from 1200 to 3000 years.

➡ Entrance fee : 20 pesos (1€) per person.

Credit Photo : Vive Oaxaca

Zona arqueológica de Mitla : Mitla is the second-most important archeological site in the state of Oaxaca the most important of the Zapotec culture. While Monte Albán was the most important politically of the Zapotec centers, Mitla became the main religious one. This site is unique among Mesoamerican sites because of its elaborate and intricate mosaic fretwork and geometric designs. No other site in Mexico has this decorative work.

➡ Entrance fee : 85 pesos (4,25€) per person.

Credit Photo : Reto Foto Mexico

Visit of a mezcal producer : In this region, Mezcal is a bit of a religion ! As you drive through the state, you will see fields of agave as far as the eye can see. It would be a shame not to stop at a local producer to learn more about this alcohol. Of course, don't forget the tasting !

➡ Entrance fee : Free.

Credit Photo : Bucket List Bri