There is no better place to visit if you want to know Mexico’s culture than Oaxaca, the city
is a melting pot where every period of history is represented from archaeological sites,
colonial buildings, to modern era, making it one of the most colorful, beautiful, and one of
the most extraordinary medical tourism destinations in the entire world. The low prices,
high-quality, and great services that are offered in this location are perfect for extended
stays.
Oaxaca was home to some of Mexico’s first civilizations, like the Zapotecs, who over 2000
years ago inhabited Oaxaca’s Valley and built the city of Monte Alban an enormous complex of
buildings, courtyards, and pyramids; Here you can spend the entire day exploring and even
visit the Museum to check out sculptures, jewelry and ceramic figurines left behind by the
Zapotecs.
The next era of Oaxaca’s history is perfectly represented on the gorgeous colonial
architecture that characterizes much of the city, with the best example being the Church of
Santo Domingo, one of the most representative and iconic symbols of Oaxaca, inside you’ll
find meticulously detailed murals and sculptures with golden detailing that will take your
breath away.
The cobbled streets of Oaxaca are the perfect way of discovering the city, you can start
with a stroll at the Historic Center and delight your ears with the music being played by
local composers, then make your way to one of the many markets to browse souvenirs, drink a
hot cup of authentic Oaxacan coffee, and even have a nice bowl of the world-famous Oaxacan
Mole.
Festivals are a really important part of the city and are celebrated all year long, each
honors a different aspect of the culture and reflects the energetic spirit of the people of
Oaxaca; the most famous is The Guelaguetza, during which the streets are filled with dancers
and exhibitions prepared by the talented artists of the city; next on the list is the
internationally famous Dia de los Muertos, where families remember their loved ones with
ofrendas and the entire city is transformed with light and beautiful altars that commemorate
important members of Mexico’s history.
In most restaurants and establishments, you can pay with US dollars or Credit/Debit cards.
If you pay with cash the exchange rate will be lower, our recommendation is to visit a
foreign exchange agency, a bank or an ATM to turn your currency into Mexican pesos.
The most popular tourist attractions in the city are very safe for walking, but like any
other city, it’s suggested that you take some common-sense precautions to improve your
experience.
Arriving by air
Your flight will take you to Xoxocotlán Airport (OAX), which receives national and
international flights.
Transportation services, like taxi and shuttles, are easily accessible from the airport, but
you can also request an Uber. The prices for transport from the airport to most spots in the
city range from $10 - $30 USD.
Common flights to Oaxaca. (Approx.)
Ciudad de Mexico 1:10 hrs.
Merida 1:43 hrs.
Dallas 3:00 hrs.
Tijuana 3:55 hrs.
How to move around the city
Our recommendation is to use public transportation or a taxi to move around Oaxaca, as it is
very affordable and secure. Cellular reception isn’t as strong in the city, so it might be a
little more difficult to drive on your own.
Where to stay?
Oaxaca has many hotels and motels to choose from, with prices ranging from $30 - $80 USD per
night.
Additional information
Oaxaca attractions
Monte Albán Museo de las Culturas Templo de Santo Domingo Mercado Benito Juarez
Places you can drive from Oaxaca (Approx.)
Monte Alban - 7.4 miles
Mitla Ruins - 28.1 miles
Hierve el Agua - 41.6 miles
Puerto Escondido - 160 miles
Playa Zipolite - 278 miles
To visit these places, you can book a tour or rent a car. Remember to check with your American car insurance or your rental car company if you are covered.
General information
If you are looking for more information about destinations, events, concerts or the many activities in the city
Events
Feria del Tejate
Food festival
Date: March
Venue: San Andres Huayapam
Guelaguetza
Ethnic festival
Date: July and August
Venue: Oaxaca
Feria Internacional del Mezcal
Mezcal Fair
Date: July
Venue: Centro Cultural y de Convenciones
Day of the Dead
Cultural festival
Date: November 1 - 2
Venue: Varies per event
For more information about the events, please check their official website or social media.