Wandering downtown Oaxaca’s Spanish colonial streets is a journey back in time. The laid-back capital of Mexico’s province of the same name boasts green-tinted, stone-paved, streets and buildings and the joyful, month-long, Guelaguezta cultural festival. Over 500 years of Mexico’s colonial history is found here, along with the UNESCO-listed Monte Alban archaeological site.
Things to see
The heart of the old city is the 16th century Plaza de la Constitucion with its green stone fountains, central bandstand and Museo del Palacio Espancio de Diversidad. People-watching is also fun in Alameda de Leon plaza with its historic buildings and gardens.
Pedestrianized Macedonio Alcala is notable for its Museo de Arte and greenstone heritage buildings, take a stroll down here in the cooler evenings and watch the locals at play.
Oaxaca is known for its religious architecture and is home to many domed and towered churches, including the Catedral de Oaxaca and the Basilica de Nostra Senora de la Soledad, think: Colonial Spanish dating back hundreds of years.
Museum buffs will find a dozen or more, celebrating everything from religious art to old trains.
Hotels on Oaxaca
Close by the charms of the old city are several examples of well-known international chain hotels and spa resorts, which offer better value for money and a reliable level of comfort.
Budget hotels are found in the inner city a few blocks away from many attractions, though you should be sure they come recommended to avoid disappointment.
If you’re travelling on business, upscale hotels in the city centre and in the suburbs offer extensive business facilities as well as shuttle buses when needed
Where to stay
For your luxury stay amidst Oaxaca’s living history, you’ll find upscale hotels set in heritage buildings within walking distance of the city’s many attractions, these are a real treat and all part of the experience.
The old town has many accommodations suitable for a family vacation, set within walking distance of parks, museums and heritage buildings. Amenities such as swimming pools and in-house restaurant choices make life easy, and children are universally welcome.
How to get there
Oaxaca’s small airport links to Mexico City’s international airport, with regular domestic flights connecting with routes from the US. Taxis from here into the city are the most sensible option.
Bus travel from Mexico City is comfortable, reliable, runs on time and starts from TAPO bus station near the airport.
Travel in and around Oaxaca is by taxi or the plentiful, cheap buses, with the historic center easily explored on foot.
