Where to Stay in Oaxaca City: Best Oaxaca Hotels, Airbnbs & Hostels
Last Updated on October 25, 2023
When I first visited Oaxaca, I loved it so much I didn’t want to leave. My taxi driver and I chatted about it during my ride back to the airport. And even with my poor Spanish, there is one thing he said that I clearly understood: “Oaxaca es mágico.”
With its art galleries, museums, markets, foodie culture, and annual Day of the Dead Festival, Oaxaca is easily one of the most beautiful and captivating cities in Mexico. It’s a destination that will quickly steal your heart, too.
Whether you’re looking for a long-term stay, a budget hostel, an upscale boutique hotel, or a vacation rental to gather with family or friends, I’ve got tips to help you find a stay that fits your needs. And if you’re visiting for a festival, be sure to grab all my tips for Dia de Los Muertos in Oaxaca.
Read on for my best hotel recommendations for where to stay in Oaxaca City for your own magical trip, including hostels and hotels plus Oaxaca Airbnb and VRBO rentals for every budget!
I independently evaluate all of my recommendations. I might receive compensation for any links you click on my site. Learn more.
Where to Stay in Oaxaca City: Quick Guide
Short on time? Grab these quick tips for the best places to stay in Oaxaca, all located near the historic center. My favorites at all price points later in this guide!
Casa Antonieta
Centrally-located boutique hotel in one of the oldest buildings in Oaxaca, from the 1500s. With a lush courtyard, rooftop terrace and bar, and great service. Be sure to include breakfast in your booking!
Other top luxury stays: Casa Carmen Reforma | Pug Seal Oaxaca | Quinta Real Oaxaca | Casa Carmen Morelos
Grana B&B
Top-reviewed, beautifully-designed B&B in a fantastic location, one block from the Ethnobotanical Garden and Andador Turistico. Exceptional service and much-loved breakfast included.
More midrange faves: NaNa Vida Hotel Oaxaca | Hotel Con Corazon | Nardazul “Casa de Sueños” | Hotel Parador de Alcalá
Comala Bed & Breakfast
This is where I stayed on my first trip to Oaxaca! Locally-owned budget pick in an excellent location with super-friendly staff. The rooftop bar and restaurant is a great place to be in the evenings.
More budget stays under $100/night: AYOOK | Casa Sofi Oaxaca | La Casa Carlota | Azul Cielo Hostel
Recommendations for special interests
Top picks for Day of the Dead: Quinta Real Oaxaca, a historic hotel in a former convent | Hotel Casantica has elaborate decor for the holiday
Hotels for telework, with good wifi + desks: Pug Seal Oaxaca | Hotel Con Corazon | City Centro by Marriott (earn Bonvoy points too)
Affordable pick with a pool: Hotel Parador de Alcalá
Most Instagrammable: Pug Seal Oaxaca and the ultra-pink City Centro by Marriott Oaxaca
Affordable apartments + homes: Casa Reforma | Talaveras | Casa Maye | Casa de Pino
Airbnb for a family or friends: Casa Sabino | Elegant Home in Centro
Luxury rental: Modern minimalist Oaxaca home with a pool, butler, maid, and cook
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In this Guide to The Best Hotels in Oaxaca City
Oaxaca Visit Tips | Best Neighborhoods | Centro | Jalatlaco | Xochimilco | Reforma | La Noria | Budget Oaxaca Hotels & Hostels | Mid-Range Oaxaca Hotels | Luxury Oaxaca Hotels | Oaxaca Airbnb & VRBO Stays for a Group | Oaxaca Vacation Rentals for Up to 3
Visiting Oaxaca City: The Basics
Get here: Fly into Oaxaca International Airport, OAX, 5 miles from the city. It’s about an hour flight from Mexico City, or 4-6 hours by bus. Inexpensive shared shuttle service to hotels in the city can be booked in the airport at a counter after you exit arrivals.
Must-sees in Oaxaca: Visit the city’s museums, art galleries, botanical garden, and cathedrals. Oaxaca is known for its art and foodie culture. Set off on a day trip to Mitla, Hierve el Agua, or Monte Alban. Try a local cooking class, street food tour, or mezcal tasting.
When to visit: The Day of the Dead (Dia de Muertos) festival from Oct. 31- November 2 is the most popular time to visit, so book well in advance. Events run the week that spans the holiday. The popular Guelaguetza festival showcasing traditional dance is typically the last two Mondays in July. October to April is when to visit for great weather, with the best time being late January through early March.
Where is Oaxaca City?
Oaxaca City (pronounced “wah-HAH-kah” with the emphasis on the “HAH”) is the capital city of the state of the same name, located in Southwestern Mexico. Its formal name is as Oaxaca de Juárez, but is commonly referred to as Oaxaca City or simply Oaxaca.
The Oaxaca region is known for indigenous cultures including Zapotecs and Mixtecs, as well as historical sites at Monte Alban and Mitla. Oaxaca is also famous for its Pacific-coast beaches in Puerto Escondido, Mazunte, Zipolite, and Bahias de Huatulco.
Oaxaca’s beach towns are a quick flight or 6-7 hours by bus from the capital. If you visit, I recommend extending your trip with a few days (or weeks!) at the beach, too! I’ll include links to all of my articles about the Oaxaca beaches at the end of this guide.
Check out my comprehensive guide to visiting Oaxaca’s beautiful beaches and get help deciding which one is perfect for you!
Best Neighborhoods to Stay in Oaxaca
Get a quick overview of the neighborhoods in Oaxaca City and some top stays in each. Then continue for detailed guides on the best hotels and vacation rentals!
Historic Center | Oaxaca City Centro
The historical center of Oaxaca is the best neighborhood to stay in, since you will be within easy walking distance of all the city sights. Within 12 blocks of the Oaxaca City center, you can walk from the historic Santo Domingo temple to the Zócalo (city square) and the Mercado 20 de Noviembre market.
This is the main tourist area, with lots of hotels, B&Bs, restaurants, mezcal bars and shops in easy walking distance of this neighborhood. Many Oaxaca hotels here are also historic, located in old homes that have been renovated.
If this is your first time visiting Oaxaca, the Centro is the best area to stay. All of the top sights are here: the Ethnobotanical Garden, the Santo Domingo Church, Oaxaca Cathedral and Basilica, and the Zocalo. Keep an eye out for the Andador Turistico, a pedestrian street lined with shops, restaurants, and hotels, that runs from the church to the Zocalo.
Recommended hotels in Oaxaca Centro
Where to Stay for Dia de los Muertos in Oaxaca
During the Day of the Dead festival, Oaxaca hotels often display elaborate altars and other decorations in their lobbies here. I spent a week popping into hotels all over the city to see these, so I have the best Oaxaca hotel recommendations for you near the main city sights in Centro – including one hotel in a restored convent!
Planning to visit for Day of the Dead? You’ll want to stay at a hotel in the Centro neighborhood of the historic center below, including the Zócalo (square). There are many events throughout the day that you won’t want to miss, including parades that stop traffic! I recommend a hotel in Centro within walking distance of the Zócalo.
Jalatlaco Barrio | Hip Artsy Neighborhood
Just west of Centro, the barrio (neighborhood) of Jalatlaco (pronounced ha-lat-la-co) is full of colorful colonial architecture, coffee shops, street art, and a hipster vibe. There are many restaurants here, including vegetarian options, as well as small hotels and and apartment rentals.
Just a short 10-minute walk from the Santo Domingo Cathedral, Jalatlaco is the place to stay in Oaxaca if you want a quieter stay and more local experience.
Xochimilco | One of Oaxaca’s Oldest Neighborhoods
The Xochimilco barrio is one of the city’s oldest neighborhoods: it dates all the way back to the 15th century! Xochimilco (pronounced so-chee-mill-co) is located north of the Santo Domingo Church and Centro. Here you’ll find cobblestone streets, historic textile workshops, small craft seller and restaurants specializing in regional Oaxacan cuisine.
The remains of the Xochimilco Aqueduct are here, which was used to bring water to the city from the surrounding hills. You’ll notice that remaining arches of the aqueduct form the entrance to some homes.
Reforma | Upscale Residential Neighborhood
Reforma is a residential neighborhood located north of Centro and Jalatlaco. If you want to experience local living in Oaxaca, or if you’re planning on a longer stay, this quiet barrio could be a good pick. You’ll have your choice of many local restaurants and cafes.
Barrio de La Noria | Neighborhood South of Centro
Another quieter choice for local living is the Barrio de La Noria. This residential area is just south of Centro. Here you’ll find local restaurants, a few smaller hotels, and the Chedruai grocery store – making it a convenient base for longer stays in Oaxaca.
Best Oaxaca Budget Hotels and Hostels ($100/night or less)
If you’re looking for a budget or long-term stay in Oaxaca, save money for more mezcal with these affordable hostels and hotels!
Azul Cielo Hostel | Best Oaxaca Hostel
Azul Cielo Hostel is located a few blocks from the Oaxaca Zócalo at the edge of La Noria, and has bunk options starting around $21 as well as private rooms. They have great reviews for the design of the rooms, atmosphere, and shared spaces, including a rooftop terrace. This is my recommended best hostel in Oaxaca. Check out their Instagram here.
😴 Check Azul Cielo Hostel rates: Expedia | Booking.com 😴
Hostal Central Oaxaca | Top Oaxaca Hostel Pick
Hostal Central Oaxaca is located near the Oaxaca Basilica, and has great reviews, free yoga classes, and a friendly atmosphere. Their rates start around $18/night with a vegetarian brekkie included! Check out their Instagram here.
😴 Check Hostal Central Oaxaca rates: Booking.com 😴
Comala Bed & Breakfast | Best Oaxaca Budget Hotel
Comala Bed & Breakfast is where I was lucky to find a room available when I visited Oaxaca during Day of the Dead (Dia de Muertos)! Many Oaxaca accommodation options book months in advance during this time, but Comala had just opened. The staff, including the proprietor Carlos, go out of their way to be kind and helpful.
Comala has basic but comfy rooms, a great rooftop bar and terrace with live music at night, plus a lovely breakfast included. This is my recommendation for the best place to stay in Oaxaca Centro on a budget – under $100/night.
😴 Check Comala B&B rates: Expedia | Booking.com 😴
AYOOK | Top Oaxaca Budget Boutique Hotel
AYOOK is located a few blocks from the Basilica at the edge of the Centro neighborhood. This hotel captures the Oaxaca aesthetic with a chic design. Guests rate AYOOK highly for its local character, attentive staff, and lovely breakfasts in the courtyard. This is my pick for a budget boutique hotel in Oaxaca.
😴 Check rates for AYOOK: Expedia | Booking.com 😴
Best Mid-Range Oaxaca Hotels
For travelers who love chic designs and an upgraded experience, these hotels offer rooms from $100-$200/night.
Grana B&B | Best Mid-Range Oaxaca Hotel
Grana B&B offers bright, stylish rooms in the best location – just a block from the Ethnobotanical Garden and Andador Turistico (pedestrian street). Amenities include organic breakfast options, a communal table for breakfast, and a garden patio.
Guest reviews frequently highlight the warm hospitality, eco-friendly practices, and the B&B’s location within walking distance of major attractions.
😴 Check Grana B&B rates: Expedia | Booking.com 😴
Nardazul “Casa de Sueños” | Midrange Top Pick for a Boutique Oaxaca Hotel
The Nardazul “Casa de Sueños” in Oaxaca City is known for its tranquil ambiance and minimalist design. Amenities such as a private pool, organic toiletries, and yoga classes set it apart.
Guests frequently rave about the hotel’s serene atmosphere, high-quality service, and proximity to local attractions – located a bit north of the Santo Domingo Church at the edge of Barrio Xochimilco.
😴 Check rates for Nardazul: Booking.com 😴
Hotel Casantica | Oaxaca Hotel for Dia de Muertos
Hotel Casantica Located only a block from the zócalo, Hotel Casantica is set in a restored 16th-century building and has a beautiful inner courtyard with a pool. The hotel Casantica is also one of the best places to stay in Oaxaca for the Day of the Dead Festival, since it always has an AMAZING altar display in the interior courtyard!
😴 Check Hotel CasAntica: Expedia | Booking.com 😴
Casa de Las Bugambilias | Oaxaca Hotel Top Pick
Casa de las Bugambilias B&B is located just a block from the Santo Domingo church. This is my overall top pick for where to stay in Oaxaca. The owners go out of their way to make you feel welcome, and can help with booking tours or providing information for your stay.
Gourmet breakfasts are served each morning featuring local flavors and ingredients (included in the room rate). This B&B usually sells out, so if it’s available during your stay dates, don’t wait to book!
😴 Check Casa de las Bugambilias: Booking.com 😴
Hotel Parador de Acala | Oaxaca Hotel with a Pool
Hotel Parador de Alcalá is a centrally-located Oaxaca City hotel with a terrace and bar. Plus, their sparkling pool is a show-stopper! They get great reviews for the staff, location, and rooms, with breakfast included in the room rates. This is my recommendation for a mid-range Oaxaca hotel with a pool.
😴 Check Parador de Alcalá: Expedia | Booking.com 😴
City Centro by Marriott Oaxaca | Instagrammable Oaxaca Hotel + Bonvoy Property
City Centro Oaxaca is the pinkest place in Oaxaca! This hotel has a chic design, outdoor pool, and great reviews for the rooms and breakfast. When I visited for the Day of the Dead festival, the church across the street was the site of a competition for artists creating sand tapestries.
The City Centro hotel chain has recently been purchased by Marriott, making this a great stay for business travelers or teleworkers who need reliable internet and desk space. Marriott Bonvoy points can also be earned here if you book direct.
😴 Check City Centro: Marriott | Expedia | Booking.com 😴
Hotel NaNa Vida | Oaxaca Boutique Art Hotel
Hotel NaNa Vida features an exceptional location and colorful, modern rooms. The hotel has great ratings for the helpfulness of the staff, the charming interior courtyard, and spaces filled with local art. It’s also rated as the #1 best value boutique hotel in Oaxaca by Tripadvisor. Check out their Instagram here.
😴 Check NaNa Vida rates: Expedia | Booking.com 😴
Hotel con Corazon | Socially-Responsible Oaxaca Hotel
Hotel con Corazón is a socially responsible Oaxaca hotel that invests in local education projects, Hotel con Corazon is located a few blocks from the central tourist area of Oaxaca near the Basilica. It scores high accommodation reviews for its overall design, included breakfast, and thoughtful service.
Hotel con Corazon also gets good reviews from digital nomads and travelers who teleworked during their stay, thanks to dependable WiFi and desks in the rooms. Check out their Instagram here.
😴 Check Hotel Corazon rates: Expedia | Booking.com 😴
Hotel Pereya | Charming Colonial Oaxaca Hotel
Hotel Pereya is conveniently located a few blocks between the Oaxaca Basilica and the main tourist street. The Hotel Pereya gets rave reviews for its helpful staff and large rooms, most with seating areas, private terraces, or balconies. Breakfast is served each morning in the courtyard.
😴 Check Hotel Pereya rates: Expedia | Booking.com 😴
La Betulia B&B | Colorful Historic Oaxaca Hotel
La Betulia Bed and Breakfast features colorful rooms and custom tiles throughout. La Betulia gets great reviews for comfy beds, helpful staff, and clean rooms. Breakfast is included and served daily in the quiet courtyard. Check out their totally charming Instagram here.
😴 Check La Betulia rates: Booking.com 😴
Hotel Casa del Sotano | Adults-Only Oaxaca Hotel with the Best Views
Casa del Sótano has a rooftop bar and terrace with spectacular 360-degree views of the city, including the Santo Domingo church a few blocks away. Guests gave high ratings for the charming architecture, breakfast and overall experience.
This is my recommendation for the best hotel in Oaxaca with a great view and a place for sunset drinks! *Note that this hotel is adults-only.
😴 Check Hotel Casa del Sotano rates: Expedia 😴
Best Oaxaca Luxury Hotels ($200+/night)
For luxury travelers and design-lovers, I’ve been saving the best picks for last! Check out these hotels with amazing service, central yet secluded locations, and designs that embody the Oaxaca aesthetic: both traditional Mexican design and the chic yet warm Oaxaca minimalism.
Casa Antonieta | Stylish Oaxaca Luxury Hotel Top Pick
Casa Antonieta One of the best hotels in the city, the Casa Antonieta is a 4-star luxury Oaxaca hotel with stylish modern design, lush interior courtyard, and central location. It’s set in one of the oldest buildings in Oaxaca, which dates to the 1500s.
Casa Antonieta has fantastic reviews for all aspects of guest stays, and I’m sort of in love with their peaceful Instagram vibe — check it out here.
😍 Check Casa Antonieta rates: Expedia | Booking 😍
Quinta Real Oaxaca | Best Historic Oaxaca Hotel
Quinta Real Oaxaca is a historic 5-star hotel in Oaxaca set in a restored convent from the 16th century. It’s centrally-located with impressive stone architecture and a pool. Also, after my last visit, I read that staff dressed as monks light candles outside of each room at night. (I must return and stay here!)
Quinta Real is one of the best hotels in Oaxaca. This is my recommendation of the best cultural place to stay in Oaxaca! Check out their Instagram here.
😍 Check Quinta Real rates: Expedia | Booking.com 😍
Pug Seal Oaxaca | Hippest Oaxaca Hotel
The Pug Seal Oaxaca is the coolest place to stay in town! It offers a blend of modern and traditional design, featuring local art and textiles in a historic building. If you’ve visited Mexico City, you might have heard of the hip Pug Seal design hotel brand there.
Amenities include a rooftop terrace, complimentary breakfast, and in-room espresso machines. Guest reviews often praise the attentive staff, comfortable rooms, and the hotel’s central location.
The Pug Seal hotels also guarantee high-speed WiFi, 24-hour coffee and tea stations, and use of private hotel areas for meetings or work — making this a best pick for anyone who needs to squeeze some telework into their trip!
😍 Check Pug Seal rates: Expedia | Booking.com 😍
Hotel Escondido Oaxaca | Gorgeous Oaxaca Design Hotel
Hotel Escondido Oaxaca is a stunning luxury hotel in the heart of Oaxaca Centro. It offers a secluded city retreat with a rustic yet luxurious design, incorporating natural materials like wood and stone. Amenities include a sparkling infinity pool, on-site spa, and farm-to-table dining.
Guest reviews highlight the exceptional service, unique architecture, and the tranquil setting away from the city bustle. It’s also part of the Marriott Bonvoy program — be sure to book direct to earn points.
😍Hotel Escondido rates: Marriott | Expedia | Booking😍
Otro Oaxaca | Luxe Oaxaca Design Hotel
Otro Oaxaca, another Marriott Bonvoy property, is a guest-favorite for its contemporary design and central location (check out that view of the Santo Domino Church!). It’s one of the best places to stay because of its proximity to cultural landmarks, rooftop bar with panoramic views, and state-of-the-art fitness center.
The hotel’s membership in the Marriott Bonvoy program adds an extra layer of benefits – so be sure to book direct if you are a member. Guest reviews often note the friendly staff, luxe design, and convenient location.
😍 Oaxaca Otro rates: Marriott | Expedia | Booking 😍
Casa Carmen Reforma | Top Oaxaca Boutique Hotel
Casa Carmen Reforma is located just blocks from the Santo Domingo Church and Ethnobotanical Garden. It’s one of the top boutique hotels in Oaxaca. With chic modern designs, some rooms have outdoor patios with open air tubs. It also gets good reviews for the attentiveness of the staff and included breakfast.
😍 Casa Carmen Reforma rates: Expedia | Booking 😍
Hotel La Casona de Tita | Oaxaca Art Hotel
Hotel La Casona de Tita is located a few blocks from the Santo Domingo Cathedral. This 5-star Oaxaca hotel has a spacious terrace, colonial decor, and rooms decorated with pieces by local artists. Plus, the hotel has an-site restaurant and rates include breakfast.
Rates do not, however, include art – you’ll have to ask about prices and pay extra for that. 😉
😍 Check Casona de Tita rates: Expedia | Booking 😍
Palacio Borghese | Adults-Only Oaxaca Luxury Hotel
Palacio Borghese is a 4-star hotel offering exceptional luxury in an old colonial building, with an indoor courtyard and rooftop terrace. Palacio Borghese is another best hotel in Oaxaca, and is rated as the #2 best value luxury hotel by TripAdvisor.
😍 Check Palacio Borghese rates: Expedia | Booking 😍
The Best Oaxaca Airbnb & VRBO Home and Apartment Stays
For people who want space for a family or friends, kitchen facilities, or a more local experience, these are my top picks for unique and comfortable Oaxaca vacation stays in or near the city center.
Oaxaca Airbnb & VRBO Vacation Rentals for a Group
Luxury Minimalist Oaxaca Home for up to 9 Guests
Luxury Minimalist Home with Pool, Butler & Cook for up to 9. This swank property is ideally located in historic downtown Oaxaca just 2 blocks from the Santo Domingo Square. With a modern minimalist Oaxacan style, the home features local art, gardens, and private outdoor patios. The house has 4 bedrooms. a private swimming pool, gym, AC in all bedrooms, TV room, WiFi, library, and 24-hour security. There is also a staff of 3 — a butler, cook, and maid — to ensure you feel like a rock star during your stay.
😍 Check rates & availability: VRBO 😍
La Casa de Pino | Oaxaca Apartments for 2-4 guests
Affordable aparthotel with units that sleep 2-4 guests. With kitchens, single bath, and either one or two king beds based on the apartment. There is also a year-round outdoor pool. It gets top reviews for cleanliness, location, and the friendliness of the staff. And an A+ for Instagrammability – look at that art!
😍 Check rates & availability: Booking.com 😍
Casa Reforma | Oaxaca Rental Home for up to 6
Casa Reforma is a traditional house near the Zocalo that sleeps up to 6. This 2-bedroom, 1-bath home with a sofa bed is a good option for a small family or friends who want to be close to Oaxaca’s sights. It offers a lush private courtyard with a grill and outdoor dining space, a kitchen, and indoor space to gather.
😍 Check rates & availability: Expedia | VRBO 😍
Colonial Oaxaca Rental for up to 6
Charming and Historic Colonial House perfect for a family or group of friends a block from the Santo Domingo church. With 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, a kitchen, living area and private parking, this is a unique space for your stay and super-convenient to all the city sights, restaurants, and bars.
😍 Check rates & availability: VRBO 😍
Jalatlaco Design Apartment for up to 4
Beautifully-designed 2-bedroom apartment for up to 4 guests with kitchen, 2 baths and rooftop patio. Located a few blocks from the zocalo and part of the “Airbnb Plus” program of facilities that have passed an in-person inspection for design and quality.
😍 Check rates & availability: Airbnb 😍
Private Home in Centro with Garden for up to 8
Elegant Home & Private Oasis in Oaxaca for up to 8. This light-filled colonial home is located just three blocks from the Santo Domingo church. Explore Oaxaca’s markets, museums, art galleries, language schools and restaurants all within walking distance. There are 3 full bathrooms, a spacious kitchen with modern appliances, dining areas for 8 both inside or outside on the patio, and a terrace overlooking the city.
😍 Check rates & availability: VRBO 😍
Penthouse with Amazing Views for up to 6
Dream Penthouse Apartment with Amazing Views for up to 6. This penthouse is located just north of the Centro Historico with sweeping views of the city and Monte Alban in the distance. Museums, art galleries, churches and historic landmarks like the Santo Domingo Cathedral are within easy walking distance. It gets great reviews for a responsive host, spacious rooms, and the terrace which is perfect for sunset views. A cook is also available for an additional fee.
😍 Check rates & availability: VRBO 😍
Oaxaca Airbnb & VRBO Stays for up to 3
Jalatlaco Guest Suite with Patio | Up to 2 Guests
Private Guest Suite and Patio in Former Tannery for 2 guests. Located in the Jalatlaco neighborhood (10-15 minute walk to the Centro) and a unique space offered by a Superhost.
😍 Check rates & availability: Airbnb 😍
Casa del Barrio | Jalatlaco Apartment for Up to 3
Casa del Barrio Apartment in Jalatlaco for up to 3 guests. Just a 10-minute walk from the Santo Domingo church, this charming apartment is located in the Jalatlaco neighborhood. It features one king bedroom, a full kitchen, and a private sun terrace for relaxing with margaritas or a good book.
😍 Check rates & availability: Expedia | VRBO 😍
Casa Capechik | Cute Jalatlaco Apartment for 2 Guests
Casa Capechik is a cozy downtown apartment for 2 guests. Stylish accommodation with 1 bedroom, bath, kitchen and living area. 10-15 minutes walk to the Oaxaca zocalo.
😍 Check rates & availability: Airbnb 😍
Search More Oaxaca Vacation Rentals
Safety in Oaxaca
While no destination is completely safe, Oaxaca state is one of the safest places to visit in Mexico. The city has a small-town vibe, and I was surprised to find that there’s quite a number of U.S. “expat” retirees living there. During my week here for the Day of the Dead (Dia de Muertos) festival, I definitely felt safe, even as a solo traveler.
It can be a bit intimidating to arrive to a new city late at night, so be sure your hotel knows your flight number in case of delays. Upon arriving at the airport, I booked a shared van drop-off with no problems, and the van was full of women travelers! Stick to tourist areas, and take the usual precautions when traveling, of course.
Also, obviously it’s not recommended to walk alone most places late at night. However, due to a mishap with one of the tour companies, I once ended up walking back to my hotel after a late excursion. I quickly realized that every passing taxi beeped gently at me, but it was only in case I wanted to flag them down!
Oaxaca Sights & Activities
Need more tips for your trip? Check out my post of the top 15 things to do in Oaxaca – whether you have 48 hours or a full week to explore Oaxaca!
And don’t forget to try at least one Oaxaca tour!
I always recommend a tour with a lot of interaction early in your trip, like a street food tour or cooking class. It’s a great way to find people to do other activities with and/or get tips on the local area — especially for solo travelers!
If you’re new to Oaxacan cuisine or street food, this Oaxaca markets tour is the perfect intro!
Eat your way through Oaxaca on a street food tour.
Learn to cook Oaxacan food yourself with this top rated cooking class
Become a mezcal expert with this tour that takes you from agave fields to distilleries (with tastings, of course), or a mezcal mixology workshop
Learn about local craft culture by painting your own alebrije
Take a walking tour or bike tour to explore Oaxaca’s street art
And of course, you should try at least one of Oaxaca’s best day trips: Monte Alban and Hierve el Agua
Pin these Oaxaca hotel tips for later!
Planning to travel more in Oaxaca and the region? Don’t miss all my guides!
Grab a great 4-day itinerary for Mexico City.
And don’t miss my collection of nativity scenes from around the world, including one from Oaxaca plus a Day of the Dead nativity!
