The Ultimate Itinerary for a 7-Day Trip to Oaxaca: Oaxaca City, Monte Albán, and More

Oaxaca


Oaxaca, located in southern Mexico, is a captivating destination known for its rich culture, deep history, and stunning natural beauty. Here, ancient indigenous traditions blend with colonial influences, creating a unique experience that captivates every visitor. A 7-day trip to Oaxaca is the perfect way to immerse yourself in everything this vibrant region offers—from the bustling streets of Oaxaca City to the ancient ruins of Monte Albán and the charming artisan villages that dot the landscape. This itinerary will guide you through the best of Oaxaca, ensuring you experience its magic to the fullest.

Day 1: Welcome to Oaxaca City

Your adventure begins in Oaxaca City, the cultural heart of the state. After arriving, take some time to settle into your hotel, ideally located in the historic center. This area is the city's pulse, known for its colonial architecture, colorful buildings, and lively atmosphere. Start exploring the Zócalo, the central square, which is always bustling with energy. Sit at a café under the shade of laurel trees, enjoy a cold drink, and soak in the ambiance as street performers entertain the crowds and vendors offer their crafts.

Just off the Zócalo is the Catedral Metropolitana de Oaxaca, a grand 16th-century cathedral with a stunning baroque façade. Step inside to admire its ornate altars and calm, serene interior—a perfect escape from the midday heat. From there, walk to the Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzmán, one of the most beautiful churches in Mexico, with its intricate gold leaf interior and elaborate details. Right next door is the Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca, where you can dive into the region's rich history, from pre-Hispanic times to modern-day.



As the sun sets, stroll down the Andador de Macedonio Alcalá, a pedestrian street filled with galleries, shops, and restaurants. Grab dinner at a renowned spot like Casa Oaxaca or La Biznaga, where you can savor local dishes like mole, tlayudas, and memelas. End your first day with a nightcap at a local mezcal bar, soaking in the city's vibrant nightlife.

Day 2: Journey to Monte Albán

Day two takes you to the ancient ruins of Monte Albán, one of Mexico's most significant archaeological sites. Just a short drive from Oaxaca City, this ancient Zapotec city sits on a mountaintop, offering sweeping views of the surrounding valleys. As you explore Monte Albán's vast Grand Plaza, you'll find yourself surrounded by temples, pyramids, and ceremonial platforms that reflect the city's importance as a political and cultural center.



Take time to climb the North Platform for panoramic views or explore the Danzantes, stone carvings depicting figures considered warriors or dancers. Each part of the site tells a story about the ingenuity and spiritual life of the Zapotec civilization. Visiting Monte Albán gives you a deep appreciation for the region's ancient history and the people who shaped it.

After a morning of exploration, head back to Oaxaca City for lunch at Mercado 20 de Noviembre, famous for its Pasillo de Humo (Smoke Alley), where you can enjoy grilled meats and other local specialties. Spend the afternoon visiting the Jardín Etnobotánico de Oaxaca. This beautiful botanical garden showcases the rich biodiversity of the region. You'll see everything from towering cacti to native herbs, all carefully curated to tell the story of Oaxaca's natural landscape.

Day 3: Exploring the Artisan Villages

Day three is about discovering the artisan traditions that Oaxaca is famous for. Start with a visit to Teotitlán del Valle, a village known for its exquisite handwoven rugs and textiles. Here, you can visit family-run workshops where artisans use traditional looms and natural dyes from plants, insects, and minerals to create intricate designs. Watching these artisans at work is a fascinating glimpse into a centuries-old craft still alive today.

Next, make your way to San Bartolo Coyotepec, home of the famous barro negro (black clay) pottery. The unique black shine of these pots and sculptures comes from a unique firing technique passed down through generations. Visit the original workshop of Doña Rosa, where you can see the entire process, from molding to firing.

End your day in San Martín Tilcajete or Arrazola, villages celebrated for their colorful alebrijes—hand-carved wooden animals and mythical creatures painted in vibrant hues and intricate patterns. Each piece is a work of art, reflecting the creativity and spirit of Oaxaca's people. Spend time talking with the artists, learning about their inspirations and techniques, and perhaps even taking home a unique piece of Oaxacan culture.

Day 4: Hierve el Agua and Mezcal Tasting in Santiago Matatlán

Today, you'll venture into Oaxaca's natural beauty with a trip to Hierve el Agua, a set of petrified waterfalls that look frozen in time. About two hours from the city, Hierve el Agua features mineral-rich springs that have created stunning rock formations resembling cascading waterfalls. The bubbling natural springs also form infinity pools where you can take a refreshing dip while enjoying breathtaking views of the valley below.

After soaking in the beauty of Hierve el Agua, continue to Santiago Matatlán, known as the "World Capital of Mezcal." Here, you'll find family-owned palenques (mezcal distilleries), where mezcal has been made the traditional way for generations. Learn about the mezcal-making process, from harvesting the agave to roasting it in earthen pits, distilling, and bottling. Taste different varieties of mezcal—like espadín, tobalá, and temperate—and discover the unique flavors of each type. Visiting a distillery like El Rey de Matatlán or Mezcal Real Minero offers education and an authentic taste of Oaxaca's spirit.

Return to Oaxaca City in the evening and enjoy dinner at El Destilado or Pitiona, two restaurants known for their innovative takes on Oaxacan cuisine.

Day 5: Dive into Oaxacan Cuisine with a Cooking Class

Oaxacan cuisine is world-renowned, and there's no better way to understand its depth and complexity than by learning to cook some of its dishes yourself. Join a cooking class that starts with a trip to a local market—Mercado de la Merced or Mercado Benito Juárez are great options—where you'll buy fresh ingredients while learning about local produce and spices.

Back in the kitchen, you'll be guided step-by-step through preparing traditional Oaxacan dishes like mole, tamales, or tlayudas. The experience is fun and enriching as you learn the secrets behind the unique flavors of Oaxacan food. After cooking, sit with your classmates to enjoy your meal with local drinks.

Spend the rest of the day exploring more of Oaxaca's cultural gems. Visit the Instituto de Artes Gráficas de Oaxaca (IAGO) for a look at contemporary and traditional art, or wander through the Barrio de Jalatlaco, a neighborhood filled with colorful murals, charming cafes, and a laid-back vibe that's perfect for a leisurely afternoon.

Day 6: Day Trip to Mitla and Tlacolula Market

On day six, venture further afield to visit Mitla, another important archaeological site that offers a different perspective on Oaxaca's ancient past. Unlike Monte Albán, Mitla is known for its stunning geometric stonework that decorates its buildings. The Group of the Columns is impressive, showcasing elaborate mosaic patterns unique in Mesoamerica. Mitla served as a religious center for the Zapotecs and later the Mixtecs, and wandering through its ruins offers a fascinating glimpse into their spiritual world.

After exploring Mitla, head to the nearby town of Tlacolula de Matamoros to experience the famous Tlacolula Market, which is especially lively on Sundays. This is one of Oaxaca's oldest markets and a hub of local life. Here, you can buy everything from handmade textiles and pottery to fresh produce and traditional foods like barbacoa and tejate, a refreshing maize and cacao drink that has been enjoyed for centuries.

Spend the evening back in Oaxaca City at a rooftop bar where you can sip mezcal while watching the sunset over the city.

Day 7: Final Day in Oaxaca City

For your final day, take the morning to relax and explore any parts of the city you may have missed. The Mercado de Artesanías is a great spot for picking up last-minute souvenirs or gifts. It offers a wide array of handmade crafts, from ceramics and textiles to jewelry and woven goods.

If you're looking for more culture, visit the Teatro Macedonio Alcalá, a beautifully restored 19th-century theater known for its intricate design and historical significance. It's a lovely way to end your trip, reflecting on all the experiences and memories you've gathered over the week.

As your 7-day adventure in Oaxaca comes to a close, you'll leave with a deeper appreciation for its culture, history, and people. Oaxaca is a place that invites you to slow down, immerse yourself, and connect with a side of Mexico that is as rich and complex as the moles that have made it famous. Whether it's your first time or a return visit, Oaxaca always has more to share, and you'll find yourself longing to return for more.


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