Should I spend 3, 4, or 5 days in Oaxaca de Juarez?
Should you spend 3, 4, or 5 days in Oaxaca de Juarez?
Many visitors spend two to five days in Oaxaca de Juarez during their trip. If you're not sure how much time you might need here, we have the answers because your journey calls for making the most of every moment. The city offers the chance to spend time at the museums, browse around the old town, sample the delicious cuisine, and find the best deals at the shops.
Oaxaca is the largest city in a state of the same name. It is a city that is rich in history and culture, and it's listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are many colonial and ancient sites both in town and nearby. The city also has a long culinary tradition with many local flavors.
Do you have 3, 4, or 5 days to visit Oaxaca de Juarez? Here's our comprehensive breakdown of how much time you might need for your trip along with some suggestions for things to do.
Is 3 days enough time in Oaxaca de Juarez?
Oaxaca de Juarez, a small city brimming with sights and attractions, holds immense popularity among tourists. Three days is probably not enough time here. You might feel rushed to see the main attractions of Oaxaca de Juarez such as the famous sights and museums, the historic old town, the food, and the many shops. To thoroughly enjoy all that the city has to offer, you'll probably want more time. Most travelers schedule two to five days to fully experience the cultural city. Nevertheless, if time is of the essence, we have some nice suggestions for your visit.
How to spend 3 days in Oaxaca de Juarez
Oaxaca de Juarez is famous for it's world-class attractions, museums, and landmarks. You'll want to spend at least a day exploring one or more that you're interested in the most. There are many museums and historical sights in the city and nearby. The Oaxaca Cathedral is located on the city's main square, Zocalo. Also worth visiting is the Church of Santo Domingo de Guzmán and the Basilica of Our Lady of Solitude. Just a few kilometers outside of the city is the historic settlement of Monte Albán as well as the Ex-Monastery of Santiago Apóstol. Also check out the Rufino Tamayo Museum and Museo Casa Juárez.
A few tour suggestions include:
- Walking tour and Museums Oaxaca ($50)
The culinary scene in Oaxaca de Juarez is world famous, and draws visitors from around the globe. Make sure you spend time enjoying breakfast, lunch, and dinner at some of this city's best restaurants. And consider a food tour, too. Many are either a half day or just a few hours, so you can fit one into your schedule easily. This is a city for foodies. Of all the destinations in Mexico, this one always tops the list for its cuisine. The food is influenced by traditional ingredients like corn and many of the recipes have been passed on through the generations. Local dishes include mole, Oaxaca cheese, coloradito, and tlayudas.
A few tour suggestions include:
- AUTHENTIC OAXACA CULTURAL FOOD TOUR, eat like a local. ($93)
- Earth, Corn & Fire: Tasting the Roots of Oaxacan Cuisine ($115)
- Oaxacan Vegetarian Cooking Class ($61)
Oaxaca de Juarez is a walkable city and easy to explore on foot. With only a day in the city, you'll have no trouble seeing the local sights. It's a walkable city that's fun to explore on foot, particularly in the historic center.
The charming atmosphere and history of the old town area is worth exploring, so spend the day learning about the history and culture of the area. The historic center is filled with colonial Spanish architecture. It's laid out in a grid pattern and there are many historic monuments. The surrounding region also has a history that dates back 1500 years.
A few tour suggestions include:
- Bicycle Tour through Oaxaca learning about its Urban Art and History ($27)
- Oaxaca city bike ride - History & traditions ($36)
- The Best of Oaxaca Walking Tour & Mezcal Tasting ($175)
The nightlife scene is very popular here. After dark, head out to one of the many venues around town. The nightlife scene starts late in the evening and can continue into the early hours. Many people meet up around Oaxaca Zocalo and it's very lively in the evenings. You'll often find live music and a fun atmosphere. As the night progresses, many people make their way to Santo Domingo, which is where you'll find a number of bars and clubs.
The public transit in Oaxaca de Juarez is fast and efficient. Over the course of a few days, you should be able to explore the city quite easily and affordably. The city has colectivos, which are shared taxis. There are also buses and tuk tuks that you can use to get around.
Shopping in Oaxaca de Juarez is very popular, and it's easy to see why. Spend time exploring the many shops and boutiques to find the perfect gift, souvenir, or outfit. The region's indigenous populations are known for the artisan crafts and handmade items. Many visitors enjoy shopping at the city's markets, where you'll find handmade ceramics, hand blown glassware, and more.
A few tour suggestions include:
- Shopping Tour in Southern Oaxaca ($129)
There are plenty of restaurants you haven't tried yet, so don't miss another amazing meal at local places for lunch and dinner. Try to go out of your way to find the small, locally owned places that offer the charm and ambiance that can only be found in Oaxaca de Juarez.
Is 4 days enough time in Oaxaca de Juarez?
For many visitors, four days in Oaxaca de Juarez would be just the right amount of time. In fact, lots of tourists spend roughly two to five days in the cultural city to check out the amazing museums and landmarks and terrific charming old town. Below we have some suggestions on how to spend your time here.
Oaxaca de Juarez, Mexico
How to spend 4 days in Oaxaca de Juarez
If you have more than 4 days in Oaxaca de Juarez, you'll appreciate the added time for everything the city has to offer.
Don't miss Mercado Benito Juárez during your trip to Oaxaca de Juarez, as it's one of this destination's most well-known attractions. You should make sure to set aside enough time to see it.
Because the nightlife scene is so popular here, you'll want to take full advantage of it more than once. From the bars and pubs to the nightclubs, there's something for everyone. Or, get some tickets to another show at the theatre such as a ballet or opera.
Is 5 days enough time in Oaxaca de Juarez?
Five days is more than enough time to see pretty much everything in Oaxaca de Juarez. You can move at your own pace and relax in your hotel. You could also use Oaxaca de Juarez as a base for exploring the nearby destinations. You'll find some great day trips in the region.
How to spend 5 days in Oaxaca de Juarez
Having 5 days in Oaxaca de Juarez will provide you with more time to take in the best activities in the city.
After you've explored most of Oaxaca de Juarez, take a day trip to one of the many beautiful destinations nearby.
There are plenty of restaurants you haven't tried yet, so don't miss another amazing meal at local places for lunch and dinner. Try to go out of your way to find the small, locally owned places that offer the charm and ambiance that can only be found in Oaxaca de Juarez.
More Info
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