What to Do in Oaxaca in 3 Days

If you are planning a trip and wondering what to do in Oaxaca in 3 days, you have come to the right place. Oaxaca City is one of Mexico’s most important cultural destinations, thanks to its colonial architecture, extraordinary cuisine, archaeological sites, traditions, and the warmth of its people.

Three days are enough to discover many of the city’s most iconic attractions if you plan your itinerary carefully. In this guide, you will find a three-day itinerary designed to help you make the most of your stay, visit must-see attractions, and enjoy authentic Oaxacan experiences.

If you are looking for a convenient location that allows you to explore the city on foot, Casa Olié Oaxaca is the ideal starting point. Our boutique hotel is located in the Historic Center, close to the city’s main attractions, restaurants, museums, and cultural venues.

Day 1: Discover the Heart of Oaxaca’s Historic Center

Spend your first day exploring Oaxaca’s Historic Center, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Have Breakfast at a Local Café

Start your morning by enjoying the excellent coffee grown in Oaxaca’s Sierra Sur and Sierra Norte regions. Around the Historic Center, you will find specialty coffee shops where you can enjoy locally sourced coffee accompanied by artisanal bread or a traditional breakfast.

Visit the Temple of Santo Domingo de Guzmán

One of Oaxaca’s most iconic landmarks is the Temple of Santo Domingo de Guzmán. Its impressive Baroque façade and richly decorated interior with gold-leaf details make it a must-see attraction.

You can also explore the former convent, which now houses the Museum of Cultures of Oaxaca, considered one of Mexico’s most important museums.

Recommended time: 2 to 3 hours.

Explore the Ethnobotanical Garden

Right next to Santo Domingo is one of Mexico’s most fascinating botanical gardens.

Here, you can discover hundreds of plant species native to Oaxaca, including:

Agaves

Cacti

Barrel cacti

Copal trees

Medicinal plants

Guided tours offer an excellent opportunity to learn more about Oaxaca’s extraordinary biodiversity.

Walk Along the Macedonio Alcalá Tourist Walkway

One of the best ways to experience Oaxaca is on foot.

The Macedonio Alcalá Tourist Walkway connects Santo Domingo with the Zócalo and is lined with:

Art galleries

Handicraft shops

Cafés

Mezcalerías

Restaurants

Historic buildings

It is an excellent place to take photographs and experience the city’s vibrant cultural atmosphere.

Enjoy Traditional Oaxacan Cuisine for Lunch

No visit to Oaxaca is complete without tasting some of its most famous dishes.

We recommend trying:

Mole negro

Tlayudas

Memelas

Enmoladas

Tasajo

Cecina enchilada

Quesillo

Chapulines

Many restaurants near the Historic Center serve traditional recipes prepared with local ingredients.

Visit Oaxaca’s Zócalo

In the afternoon, enjoy the lively atmosphere of Oaxaca’s Zócalo.

Here you may find:

Live music

Cafés

Local artisans

Cultural events

Temporary exhibitions

It is one of the most popular gathering places for both visitors and locals.

Have Dinner and Visit a Mezcalería

Oaxaca is also internationally renowned for its mezcal.

A great way to end your first day is by tasting different varieties of artisanal mezcal, accompanied by regional cuisine or a selection of local cheeses.

Day 2: Monte Albán and the Mezcal Route

Dedicate your second day to discovering two of Oaxaca’s greatest cultural treasures.

Visit Monte Albán

Located just a few kilometers from the Historic Center, Monte Albán was the ancient capital of the Zapotec civilization.

During your visit, you can explore:

The Great Plaza

The Ball Courts

The Observatory

The South Platform

Los Danzantes carved stone monuments

In addition to its extraordinary historical significance, Monte Albán offers some of the best panoramic views of the Oaxaca Valley.

Recommended time: 3 to 4 hours.

Have Lunch in a Nearby Town

After visiting Monte Albán, you can head to Santa María Atzompa or return to the Historic Center to enjoy local Oaxacan cuisine.

Explore the Mezcal Route

In the afternoon, discover one of Oaxaca’s greatest traditions: artisanal mezcal production.

The Mezcal Route includes communities such as:

Santiago Matatlán

San Dionisio Ocotepec

Tlacolula

Santa Catarina Minas

During the tour, you can learn about the traditional production process, including:

Growing the agave

Cooking it in underground conical ovens

Grinding

Fermentation

Distillation

Many family-owned palenques and distilleries also offer guided mezcal tastings.

Return to the Historic Center

After completing the tour, return to Oaxaca’s Historic Center and enjoy a relaxing dinner at one of its many restaurants.

Day 3: Hierve el Agua or Traditional Towns

For your final day, you have several options depending on the type of experience you are looking for.

Option 1: Hierve el Agua

Hierve el Agua is one of Mexico’s most impressive natural landscapes.

Here you will find:

Petrified waterfalls

Natural mineral pools

Scenic trails

Panoramic viewpoints

It is an ideal destination for travelers who enjoy nature and outdoor experiences.

Option 2: Mitla

The archaeological site of Mitla is famous for its impressive geometric stone mosaics.

It is considered one of the most important archaeological sites in Oaxaca and provides another fascinating perspective on the region’s pre-Hispanic history.

Option 3: The Tree of Tule

A short distance from Oaxaca City stands the famous Tree of Tule.

It is known for having one of the widest tree trunks in the world and makes for a quick but highly recommended visit.

Option 4: San Bartolo Coyotepec

If you want to discover Oaxaca’s famous barro negro, or black pottery, this artisan town is an excellent choice.

You can visit family-run workshops, learn about the production process, and purchase unique handcrafted pieces directly from local artisans.

Oaxacan Food You Should Not Miss

During your stay, make sure to try at least some of these Oaxacan specialties:

Mole negro

Mole coloradito

Mole amarillo

Tlayudas

Oaxacan tamales

Chocolate de agua

Tejate

Nicuatole

Artisanal mezcal

Burnt-milk ice cream

Tips for Exploring Oaxaca in 3 Days

Wear comfortable walking shoes.

Use sunscreen.

Stay hydrated.

Book accommodations and tours in advance if you are traveling during Guelaguetza or Day of the Dead.

Explore the Historic Center on foot whenever possible.

Choose certified tour operators for excursions to Monte Albán and Hierve el Agua.

Where to Stay in Oaxaca

Your hotel’s location can make a significant difference in your travel experience.

Staying in Oaxaca’s Historic Center allows you to explore many of the city’s main attractions on foot while enjoying easy access to restaurants, museums, traditional markets, and cultural venues without constantly relying on a car.

Casa Olié Oaxaca offers a boutique experience inspired by history, with unique rooms, personalized service, and a privileged location close to the Temple of Santo Domingo, the Macedonio Alcalá Tourist Walkway, and Oaxaca’s Zócalo. It is an ideal place to relax after a full day of exploring while experiencing the essence of Oaxaca in a peaceful and welcoming atmosphere.

Book Your Stay at Casa Olié Oaxaca

If you are planning a trip to Oaxaca, we invite you to enjoy a different kind of stay at a boutique hotel filled with history and charm.

From Casa Olié Oaxaca, you can easily explore the city’s main attractions, enjoy its extraordinary cuisine, and discover the cultural heritage that makes Oaxaca one of Mexico’s most fascinating destinations.

Check our room availability and start planning an unforgettable trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are 3 Days Enough to Visit Oaxaca?

Yes. With good planning, three days are enough to explore the main attractions in the Historic Center, visit Monte Albán, and take an excursion to Hierve el Agua or explore the Mezcal Route.

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Oaxaca?

Oaxaca is a year-round destination. However, Guelaguetza in July, Day of the Dead in late October and early November, and the December holiday season are particularly popular because of the city’s extensive cultural events and celebrations.

Is It a Good Idea to Stay in the Historic Center?

Yes. Staying in the Historic Center makes it easy to explore Oaxaca’s main attractions, restaurants, museums, and markets on foot while experiencing the city’s vibrant cultural atmosphere.

How Much Time Do You Need to Visit Monte Albán?

We recommend allowing approximately three to four hours to explore the archaeological site at a relaxed pace and enjoy its panoramic views.

How Do You Get to Hierve el Agua from Oaxaca?

You can reach Hierve el Agua by car, with an organized tour, or by using transportation connections through the Tlacolula and San Lorenzo Albarradas area.

The journey from Oaxaca City usually takes approximately one and a half to two hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.