Oaxaca-2-day-itinerary

November 5, 2024

Oaxaca Itinerary: 2 Days of Cultural Immersion

9:00 AM: Start your day at the vibrant Mercado de Abastos, a bustling marketplace filled with colorful produce, handicrafts, and local delicacies. Try some traditional Oaxacan breakfast dishes like tlayudas (large, crispy tortillas topped with beans, cheese, and meat) or memelas (thin, handmade tortillas).
10:30 AM: Visit the stunning Santo Domingo Church, a 16th-century Dominican convent turned museum, featuring impressive colonial architecture and an extensive collection of Oaxacan artifacts.

1:00 PM: Head to La Casa de la Ciudad (The City House), a cultural center offering workshops, exhibitions, and performances. Take part in a traditional Oaxacan cooking class, where you can learn to prepare local dishes like mole negro or tlayudas.
3:30 PM: Explore the historic Center of Oaxaca, wandering through its picturesque streets, admiring the colonial architecture, and visiting the Zócalo (main square).

7:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at Los Danzantes, a cozy restaurant serving innovative, farm-to-table Oaxacan cuisine. Be sure to try their signature dish, tlayudas con chapulines (tlayudas topped with toasted grasshoppers).
9:00 PM: Experience the vibrant nightlife of Oaxaca at La Jicara, a popular bar featuring live music and an extensive selection of mezcal, Oaxaca’s famous spirit.

8:00 AM: Visit the ancient Zapotec ruins of Monte Albán, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the pyramids, temples, and ball courts, taking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
12:30 PM: Head back to Oaxaca City for lunch at El Fogoncito, a casual eatery serving traditional dishes like tortas (sandwiches) and chilaquiles (fried tortilla chips in salsa).

2:00 PM: Visit the Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca, which showcases the state’s rich cultural heritage through exhibits on archaeology, ethnography, and art.
4:30 PM: Wander through the charming neighborhood of Xochimilco, known for its colorful buildings, quaint shops, and lively atmosphere.

7:30 PM: Savor dinner at Origen, a restaurant offering modern Oaxacan cuisine with a focus on local ingredients and creative presentation.
9:30 PM: End your evening with a stroll through the historic center, taking in the sights and sounds of this enchanting city.

Hotel Casa Oaxaca: A stylish boutique hotel located in the heart of the historic center, offering comfortable rooms and a tranquil atmosphere.
Hostal La Noria: A budget-friendly hostel with dorms and private rooms, featuring a lively common area and helpful staff.

Airport Transfers: Book a shuttle or taxi service from Xoxocotlán International Airport (OAX) to your accommodation in Oaxaca City.
Local Transport: Use taxis, buses, or colectivos (shared vans) to navigate the city. You can also walk or bike around the historic center.

Language: While many locals speak some English, it’s helpful to learn basic Spanish phrases like “gracias” (thank you) and “¿dónde está…?” (where is…?).
Currency: The Mexican peso is the local currency. You can exchange money at banks or use ATMs.
Safety: Oaxaca City is generally safe, but take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
Respect Local Culture: Be mindful of traditional customs and dress modestly when visiting churches or indigenous communities.

Fiestas and Celebrations: Oaxaca loves to celebrate! Check the local calendar for festivals like the Guelaguetza, which honors the state’s rich cultural heritage.
Markets and Shopping: Visit the Mercado de Artesanías (Handicrafts Market) or Mercado de Abastos for unique souvenirs, textiles, and local products.
Day Trips: Consider visiting nearby attractions like the ** Hierve el Agua** natural mineral water springs or the Tule Tree, a majestic 2,000-year-old cypress.