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Planning a trip to Oaxaca, Mexico? Well, you’re in for a treat, and we’ve got just the itinerary to make it unforgettable.
We love this colorful, culture-packed city, so we’ve put together a fun, easy-to-follow 3-day guide to help you make the most of your time. From learning to cook with a local abuela to exploring ancient ruins and natural wonders like Hierve el Agua, this itinerary covers all the highlights. And don’t worry, we’ve included plenty of great food along the way!
We know all too well that when you first visit Oaxaca, it can be hard to know where to start. So stop stressing, relax, and let this guide show you the best of Oaxaca in just three days. Vamos!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did in Oaxaca was this full day tour to Hierve el Agua! This natural wonder is stunning, and the day was full of adventure as we saw the Tule Tree, Mitla, and how mezcal was made.
Itinerary Overview
Oaxaca is a vibrant city and full of sights to behold. You can really see a lot in just three days… and by “see” a lot, I mean eat a lot! Oaxaca is famous for it’s cuisine, from mole negro to tlayuda, you can taste your way around the city.
The city itself is quite compact, so you’ll be able to walk from place to place easily. Otherwise, these organized tours will take you to see the greater Oaxaca region, or if you have a rental car, you can get around easily.
Day 1: Kick things off with a walking tour through Oaxaca’s colorful streets and historic center, then relax in the lively Zócalo before heading to a hands-on cooking class where you’ll learn to make traditional Oaxacan dishes using Grandma’s recipes.
Day 2: Start your day on a guided visit to the ancient Zapotec ruins of Monte Albán, then swing by a stunning 16th-century church before a food tour of Oaxaca’s vibrant local markets. In the evening, sip mezcal at a local mezcalería and grab a late-night tlayuda from one of the city’s best street food spots.
Day 3: Head out of town on a full-day tour to see the massive Tule Tree, explore the ruins of Mitla, take a dip at Hierve el Agua, and visit a working mezcal farm. Then cap off your trip with dinner and a stroll through the trendy Reforma neighborhood.
Day 1
Breakfast – Pan de Olla BISTRO-MEZCAL-CAFE
Pan de Olla is a cozy spot that blends café vibes with a love for mezcal- very Oaxaca! Of course, we’re not going to be indulging in mezcal just yet today, but there are plenty of other treats to enjoy for breakfast this morning.
We love the chilaquiles here, and they’ll definitely set you up well for the day. Don’t leave without trying a cup of olla, either! This is traditional Oaxacan coffee brewed with cinnamon and brown sugar. I warn you, though, it’s addictive!
This spot is just an 8-minute walk from where this morning’s tour begins. It opens at 8 am and you don’t need to meet your guide until 9:30 am, so you’ll have plenty of time to fuel up before you head out to explore.
Morning – Explore Oaxaca’s colorful streets with a local guide
One thing you just have to do in Oaxaca is check out the local street art, so that’s what we’re doing this morning. Book this walking tour for 9:30 am and spend 4.5 hours not only admiring Oaxaca’s vibrant (and primarily illegal) murals, but also getting to know your way around the city!
The street art here doesn’t just look pretty. It’s a continuation of a longstanding Mexican tradition of muralism, so it has deep cultural roots. At the same time, much of the art voices the revolutionary freedom movement in the city. I was super interested to learn that artists even use their murals as an alternative to protests.
Many renowned artists such as Jose Guadalupe Posada, Leopoldo Mendez, and Diego Rivera have recognized Oaxaca’s famous street art. Some of the pieces we saw on this tour have been around for over 30 years!
We loved being able to explore with a local artist guide because Maria was able to tell us the significance of all the art we were seeing, so none of it was lost on us. She even took us to a printing demonstration and we got to keep some small prints as souvenirs. And as if all of that weren’t sweet enough, this tour ends with a cacao tasting.
Read the glowing reviews and book this top-rated street art tour here!
Stop by Zócalo de la Ciudad de Oaxaca (Plaza de La Constitución)
You’ll have a bit of time in between tours, and the ending and starting points aren’t that far apart. So make use of this pause and head to the Plaza de la Constitución, aka the city’s main square. It’s always buzzing with activity, and we always have so much fun just walking around and checking out the street musicians or grabbing snacks from the food vendors. Don’t eat too much, though, because we have a cooking class up next!
Afternoon – Learn how to cook Oaxacan cuisine
We love Mexican food in general but Oaxacan cuisine really takes the cake – or the relleno, in this case! So this afternoon we’ve got this fun and wholesome cooking class that will take you on a deep dive that goes way beyond the typical tacos and burritos that you might find at home.
Book this class for 3:30 pm if possible. On Sundays, it runs at 11:30 am, so you may need to adjust your schedule if that’s when your trip falls. The class doesn’t run on Mondays or Saturdays either, so you might need to swap some days around, but I can promise you that it will be worth it. You really cannot miss this class – and all of the gushing reviews certainly agree with me!
What makes this class special is that it takes place in a local family home, with warm and friendly hosts, Adhey and Enrique. They greeted us with warm bread and hot chocolate, and we even got to meet their children and their dog!
We made everything from smoky salsas to stuffed chilies and chileajo con verduras, a delicious traditional stew that we’d never even heard of before. Then, our group sat down together for a family-style dinner as we enjoyed the food we had made alongside plenty of local mezcal.
Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just curious about Oaxacan cuisine, this experience is a must. It wraps up around 8 pm, so you’ll probably want to head back to your hotel afterward to get a good night’s rest before the early start tomorrow. Trust me, you’ll sleep well after all of that food!
This traditional cooking class is popular, so book it before it sells out!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
Day 2
Morning – Visit Monte Alban Ruins
Yesterday, we explored present-day Oaxaca, so today it’s time to step into the past and check out Monte Alban, the best-preserved archaeological site in the region. These ruins are from both the Zapotec and Mixtec cultures and are estimated to date back to around the 8th century BC – pretty cool, right?
I always like to have a tour guide when I visit ruins. This way, the guide explains the significance of what you’re seeing. Without a guide, I find I never get enough information and the entire visit is less enjoyable. That’s why I recommend this half-day tour to Monte Alban to ensure you get the most out of your visit.
The tour leaves at 9 am from a meeting point in central Oaxaca. Return transport is included, so you don’t need a rental car!
When you arrive, you’ll see large pyramids (temples), tombs, a ball court, and terraces and learn all about them. Our guide, Miguel, had us absolutely fascinated with all of his stories about Mesoamerican culture, and he got our entire group excited about what we were seeing. Seriously, even if you’re not a history buff, this tour will definitely put a smile on your face – there’s a reason it has 600+ 5-star reviews!
You’ll be back in Oaxaca by 11 am or 12 pm – the exact time varies a little according to the conditions of the day. Either way, you’ll have time to either have a wander or give your feet a break before this afternoon’s foodie adventure.
Book this top-rated Monte Alban tour here and enjoy free cancellation!
Stop by Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzmán
After this morning’s tour, you’ll have a bit of a break before the next one begins. So in the meantime, swing by the Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzman. It closes at 1 pm, and it’s just a 10-minute walk from the endpoint of the Monte Alba tour, so go and take a quick look before it shuts its doors for the day. It’s a beautiful example of Spanish Baroque architecture, and it dates all the way back to the 1500s, so we definitely think it’s worth checking out.
You don’t need long to admire the church, so after you’ve explored, you can head back to your hotel for a quick rest if it’s nearby. Otherwise, you can stop for coffee somewhere or continue wandering through Centro by yourself until it’s time to meet your food tour at 1:30 pm.
Afternoon – Taste your way around Oaxaca’s famous markets
Oaxaca is known all around the world for food, which is why a food tour is a must this afternoon! And trust me, this food markets tour will have you eating like a local as you explore the most beloved spots and try all the best dishes and snacks!
The tour begins at 1:30 pm and it lasts for about 2.5 hours, during which you’ll be introduced to some of Oaxaca’s most famous local dishes. I’m talking about mole, tlayuda (Mexican pizza), and chocolate de agua to name but a few things on the menu!
But what I really love about this tour is that it includes dishes that most tourists miss. You’ll also get to explore the famous Benito Juarez Market and Mercado 20 De Noviembre, which is where all the good food in the city is!
I personally love food tours when I travel, especially in countries where I don’t fully speak the language. With an English-speaking guide, you’ll be able to understand what everything is made of and what you’re trying rather than ordering something random and hoping for the best!
This food tour gave us one of the most fun afternoons we’ve ever had in Oaxaca – and believe me, that’s saying something!
Read 100+ 5-star reviews and grab your spot on this fun food tour here!
Evening – Visit a mezcaleria
After a full day of exploring and eating, wind down by diving into one of Oaxaca’s most iconic traditions: mezcal tasting! We’ve got a visit to a mezcal farm lined up for tomorrow, but tonight we’ll take the opportunity to experience the city’s huge variety of mezcal bars. The first time I visited Oaxaca, I was shocked at just how different each mezcal can be!
There’s a proper way to drink mezcal, too, as you’ll discover while you work your way through the bars. Sip it, never shoot it!
As for where to go, well, you’re spoiled for choice! Mezcalería In Situ is one of the most popular mezcalerías in town, likely because they have hundreds of bottles and incredibly knowledgeable staff who can walk you through the seemingly endless varieties.
We also like La Mezcalerita because it has a lovely rooftop terrace and a welcoming atmosphere. And if you get tired of all the mezcal, they do great local craft beers here, too!
Meanwhile, Sobrio by Mezcal Speakeasy is a cozy spot that’s open until 11:30 pm, so if you’re looking for low-lit late-night cocktails, we suggest ending your night here! They have some rare varieties of mezcal to try, and their spicy mezcalitas are the best we’ve had!
Related Read: Still haven’t booked a hotel? We can help with our Oaxaca City hotel guide that recommends the best areas and hotels!
Late dinner – Tlayudas
We know all too well that mezcal tasting can work up an appetite, so if you need something to soak up the liquor, head to Tlayudas Libres Doña Martha. They make some of the best tlayudas in the city, which somehow taste even better after a few glasses of mezcal! Plus, they’re open until 2 or 3 am, so this is the perfect spot to satisfy those cravings before you hit the hay.
Related Read: Heading to Tulum next? Don’t miss our 3-Day Tulum itinerary here, packed with cenotes, ruins, food tours, and local gems to make the most of your trip.
Day 3
Full day – Visit Hierve el Agua, the Tule Tree, and a mezcal farm
We’re not exaggerating when we say this Hierve el Agua tour is a must-do day trip from Oaxaca. Yes, it does start early, with an 8 am departure from the city center, but you’ll be glad you got up!
This 12-hour tour packs in several of the region’s most iconic sights, starting with a stop at El Árbol del Tule. This is a massive Montezuma cypress that’s believed to be over 2,000 years old! The trunk is so wide it’s said to be the stoutest tree in the world, and in person it’s every bit as magical as it sounds.
From there, you’ll continue on to Teotitlán del Valle, a weaving village famous for its traditional Zapotec textiles. The next big highlight is Mitla, an ancient archaeological site that was once a religious center for the Zapotec people. Its intricate mosaic stonework is unlike anything else in Mesoamerica and a real standout for history lovers.
Then, it’s off to the main event: Hierve el Agua, one of the most surreal landscapes in all of Mexico. These “petrified waterfalls” are formed from calcium deposits that trick your eyes into thinking water is flowing down the cliff. You’ll have about 2 hours here to swim in the natural pools, snap photos of the jaw-dropping mountain views, or just relax in the sun. It is incredible, and a truly unmissable experience when in Oaxaca.
To cap off the day, you’ll stop at a traditional mezcal distillery to learn how Oaxaca’s smoky spirit is made and, of course, sample a few varieties. It’s the perfect finale for a full day of sightseeing, nature, and culture.
This tour is an incredible way to see the incredible Oaxaca region beyond the city. Driving and navigating by yourself would be a lot of effort (and would put a damper on the mezcal tasting!), but doing the tour makes it so much easier and more enjoyable. Just remember to bring cash for entry fees and some snacks for the road!
Read 800+ 5-star reviews and book this incredible Hierve el Agua tour here!
Dinner/evening – Los Pacos in Colonia Reforma
Mole is a cornerstone of Oaxacan cuisine, so tonight we’re heading to Los Pacos for the ultimate mole experience. It’s a traditional and unpretentious spot that serves up some of the best mole in the city.
Los Pacos offers seven signature moles, and you can sample them ALL on the house! How cool is that? Then, after you’ve figured out your favorites, you can build your own combo plate, which features 2-3 moles alongside 2-3 different meats, as well as rice, sweet plantains, and a big stack of tortillas.
If you’re still up for exploring afterward, take a walk through Colonia Reforma. It’s a charming and trendy neighborhood just outside the city center with leafy streets, little bars, and a relaxed local vibe. Enjoy the atmosphere, grab a drink, and toast to a great final evening in Oaxaca – salud!
Related Read: If you find yourself with a bit of extra time, check out our top things to do in Oaxaca blog here for even more fun activities!
Where to Stay in Oaxaca, Mexico
Now that you’ve got the perfect Oaxaca itinerary sorted, you just need a great place to stay! There are plenty of hotels to choose from in Oaxaca, but sorting through them all can take a while. That’s why we’ve gone ahead and done the work for you! Here are our top hotel picks for every budget in Oaxaca:
Luxury – $$$
For those looking for a luxury stay, the Quinta Real Oaxaca is a five-star hotel that is simply beautiful. Inside and out the stylistic decor sets the scene for an upper-class yet relaxed stay. This hotel is not only located right in the middle of the historic center, but it also has a beautiful outdoor pool! On a hot summer day, this is the perfect place to relax and cool off.
Check availability and book this stay on Booking.com.
Mid-range – $$
We love the City Centro by Marriott because it offers a luxurious stay, without blowing your budget! The location couldn’t be better, as it’s in Oaxaca City’s central area, but is quiet and serene onsite. You can enjoy the pool, restaurant, vibrant atmosphere, and upscale rooms to relax and recharge.
Rooms average around $200 USD per night and can be booked on Booking.com.
Budget – $
For those looking for a great deal, Hotel Parador de Alcala is incredible with everything you could need and more! In fact, it could easily be considered a “luxury” hotel, but since the price for a standard room comes in under $100 USD, it truly is great value for money! It features a rooftop pool and is right in the historic center, which is very handy because that’s where most of the tours we have mentioned meet up!
You can book this hotel on Booking.com.
For more options, see all of the hotels in Oaxaca City here!
Related Read: Need help narrowing down your hotel options? Here is our guide on where to stay in Oaxaca City, including the best areas and our favorite hotels!
Renting a Car in Mexico
Undoubtedly, one of the best ways to get around Mexico is in a rental car.
I struggled to get around by bus and taxi for the longest time. But after renting a car in Cancun in 2023, I never looked back. It allowed me to explore the country without worrying about tours or taxis. It was why I fell in love with Mexico and eventually decided to live here periodically.
I refuse to use local services whenever I rent a car in Mexico. The truth is they sometimes can’t be trusted or come with hidden fees (or costly insurance that doesn’t make sense.) There are even rental car scams! So instead, I use Discover Cars, the company most experienced travelers or ex-pats in Mexico recommend. Read my honest review of Discover Cars here for more details!
The rates on Discover Cars are cheap, too, with the average rental costing around $25 USD per day. Full coverage insurance can be added for an extra $10 USD a day too.
Driving in Mexico also only requires a driver’s license using the Roman alphabet. If yours uses another like Japan and China, you simply need an international driving permit.
Insurance is required, but if you book with Discover Cars and get the full coverage, that’s all you need! Oh, and being over 18 is required, and if you’re over 25, your rental will be much cheaper!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.
Thanks for reading!
Mexico is full of fun cities to explore, but Oaxaca might be my favorite! From its vibrant and art-filled streets, to the incredible landscape just outside the city, and the top-notch food and drink scene, there is a lot to love. Stick to this itinerary and I know you’ll have a fantastic three days in Oaxaca!
If you need help planning more of your travels, check out our other Mexico blogs. We have been all over the country and have plenty of resources to share with fellow adventurers. Here are a few to get you started – cheers!
Where to Stay in Mexico City: 4 Best Areas & Hotels
6 BEST Things to do in Puerto Escondido, Mexico
13 BEST Tours in Oaxaca City, Mexico
How to Spend THREE DAYS in Playa del Carmen, Mexico: 3-Day Itinerary