What to do in oaxaca? 7 magical places to discover
Oaxaca is an incredible destination that brings together history, culture and beauty and enchants everyone who visits it. Its streets, museums, the ruins of Monte Alban, the panoramic views of Hierve el Agua and other enchantments make thousands of tourists fall in love and come back again and again. If you are one of those travelers who are interested in exploring landscapes and learning about new cultures, this destination is ideal for you. If you are planning a getaway to this wonderful state, you should know what are the best places to visit in Oaxaca and what activities to do in this vibrant destination.
What are the best 7 places to visit in Oaxaca?
If you are always looking for authentic experiences and to celebrate every moment of adventure, this destination is the one. Oaxaca offers a variety of sites to captivate your senses and make you fall in love: every corner offers a fascinating history as well as incredible beauty. If you are planning a trip to this destination, get ready to discover what to do in Oaxaca and what are the best places to visit in this city. Oaxaca's Historic Center One of Oaxaca's greatest attractions is its historic center, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1987, which houses impressive buildings such as the Oaxaca Cathedral, the Government Palace, the Santo Domingo Cultural Center and the Santo Domingo Church. Its cobblestone streets teem with life, with colorful markets, art galleries and restaurants offering Oaxaca's rich gastronomy. Its vibrant streets, picturesque facades and mix of colors make this place one of the 7 most beautiful and magical places to visit in Oaxaca. If you are one of those travelers who love architecture and cultural details, walking the streets of downtown will give you an incomparable visual experience. While the colonial buildings are the most important places to visit in downtown Oaxaca, getting lost in its streets is a unique experience: its warm palette, incredible murals, iron balconies, carved doors and red tile roofs create a fabulous contrast for you to take amazing pictures and treasure wonderful memories.
Monte Alban
Founded in 500 B.C., it was the capital of the Zapotec empire until 800 A.D. Its heyday was between 350 and 750 A.D. and it had a population of 35,000 inhabitants. The city, located 500 meters above sea level, is one of the best places to visit in Oaxaca. Here you can appreciate unique architecture, murals, ceramics, pyramids, plazas, canals and dams and learn about the greatness of pre-Columbian civilization in Mexico. If you are curious about history, this city is, without a doubt, one of the tourist places in Oaxaca that you must visit.
Boiling Water
Its wonderful waterfalls, natural pools and the view of the mountainous landscape will take your breath away. This geological creation developed over thousands of years, its waters travel from high in the Sierra Madre Oriental and filter through layers of mineral-rich rock. As the water flows to the surface, it accumulates minerals and its deposits give rise to formations that resemble petrified waterfalls. The pools, formed at the top of the waterfalls, are the ideal place to enjoy a dip and appreciate the views. If you are a lover of spectacular landscapes and views, you must visit Hierve el Agua, one of the key sites for tourism in Oaxaca. We recommend you plan your visit in advance, as it is a very busy destination. Although you can arrive by public transportation, car rental in Oaxaca will allow you to have more flexibility and not depend on schedules. Hertz Mexico will accompany you on your tour of the city!
Huatulco Bays
There are nine bays you can visit: Santa Cruz, Chahue, Tangolunda, Conejos, Maguey, Órgano, Cacaluta, Chachacual and San Agustín. Each of these bays is an incredible tourist attraction in Oaxaca: their white sand beaches, crystal clear water and ocean views make them the most beautiful places to visit in Oaxaca. If you want to explore all the bays, we suggest you select a boat tour that allows you to visit and enjoy each one of them. You can opt for organized tours, private excursions, or boat rentals. Another option is to take a boat tour that covers all the bays, these last several hours and include stops at the beaches for activities or to enjoy a good time. You can also rent a private boat to explore the bays on your own and at your own pace, only if you have the necessary knowledge. If you love sports and are an adventurer, you will love this place! You can enjoy a variety of water activities such as surfing, diving, kayaking and snorkeling, and have a beautiful time with breathtaking scenery.
Mitla
Just 40 kilometers southeast of Oaxaca City lies the charming San Pablo Villa de Mitla, a town steeped in history and art. Known for its talented artisans and fascinating connection to the pre-Hispanic era, Mitla is a captivating destination for those seeking to immerse themselves in the cultural richness of Mexico. Beneath its picturesque houses today, remnants of the ancient homes of the inhabitants of that era have been discovered, adding an additional layer of mystery and fascination to its history. But Mitla's real treasure lies in its archaeological site, a place that attracts visitors from all over the world. This archaeological site is famous for the harmony of its structures and the beautiful decoration of its walls. Among its main attractions that you cannot miss is the Column of Life, a legendary relic that according to local stories has the power to reveal how many years of life are left to those who visit it. Benito Juárez Ecotourism Center Among the 7 magical places in Oaxaca is this majestic center, an oasis of biodiversity in the midst of virgin nature. It is recognized as one of the best preserved treasures in Mexico, and one of the epicenters of the country's rich fauna. If you are an adventure lover, you will find in this ecological paradise the perfect setting for activities such as hiking and mountain biking, while exploring the trails that cross dazzling landscapes.
Teotitlán del Valle
This town belongs to the district of Tlacolula, located half an hour's drive from Oaxaca City. This magical town is considered the first town created by the Zapotecs and known for its archaeological wealth. It is also known for its wool textile products, something that makes Teotitlán one of the best places to visit in Oaxaca if you are looking for regional products. If you are planning a trip to Mexico, you can't miss the best tourist attractions in Oaxaca. These include history, art, mystery, nature and adventure, something that will make your stay in Oaxaca an enriching experience. For a better and more comfortable stay, we recommend renting a car with Hertz Mexico, don't depend on schedules and create your own itinerary!