This Mexico City Has Just Been Named the Best City in the World

Oaxaca is unquestionably one of the world’s best food and drink destinations, with an endless supply of mezcal and mole. As a result, it’s perhaps not surprising that it was named the best city in the world. This vibrant state in southwestern Mexico also has a vibrant culture, lovely weather, a landscape that ranges from soaring peaks to cerulean surf, and some of the country’s most iconic architecture. You could spend several weeks here and not even scratch the surface if you didn’t plan properly. To that end, we’ve put together a list of the best things to do, see, and drink while visiting this exciting part of the world.

When is the best time to visit Oaxaca?

landmark santo domingo cathedral in historic oaxaca city center

Oaxaca is a large state, slightly larger than Indiana, with several tropical and subtropical climates. The majority of the land is more than a mile above sea level, where temperatures are often much lower than along the coasts. All of this is to say that the temperature can vary greatly depending on where you go and when you go. However, the good news is that it is almost always pleasant and sunny. The rainy season, which lasts from late June to September, is the only exception.

Early November is always a popular time to visit. The weather is consistently pleasant, and Día de los Muertos celebrations bring mirth, marigold, and mesmerizing pageantry to the streets of cities and villages across the country. Even if you miss these specific events, come between fall and spring break and you’ll leave with few to no regrets.

Oaxaca Attractions

Of course, you should drink mezcal. But more on that later. First and foremost, you’ll want to sample the world-class cuisine available throughout Oaxaca. And you’ll have no trouble finding it while strolling through Oaxaca City’s streets. The hub’s bustling market scene is an excellent place to sample a little bit of everything. The Mercado 20 de Noviembre is well-known for its wide range of food stalls, which include everything from baked goods and pastries to an entire aisle of roasted proteins known as “El Pasillo de las Carnes Asadas.” Explore Mercado Organico La Cosecha for something smaller and more vegetarian-friendly.

If you prefer a more formal dining experience, make a reservation at either Criollo or Origen, two of the city’s top-rated restaurants. The former uses local ingredients in a charming open-air courtyard, while the latter goes much more global under the supervision of master chef Rodolfo Castellanos. And, for something completely unexpected but equally delicious, head to Convivio, where flawless cocktails are paired with Asian-infused Oaxacan dishes.

Just remember to leave room for the Lechoncito de Oro. Open every night at 8 p.m. This unassuming tented stall is an after-hours institution until…whenever. They specialize in delectable pork tacos topped with crispy pork rinds and spicy salsa verde.

When it comes to sightseeing outside of the city, Hierve el Agua is one of the best natural wonders to visit. These calcareous rock formations in San Lorenzo Albarradas appear to be a frozen waterfall on the side of a cliff. Established hiking trails take you right up to the edge of the cascade.

Monte Albán, perched atop a 1,300-foot-high plateau, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that contains a well-preserved terraced pyramid and other pre-Columbian cultural artifacts. The Zapotecs, an Indigenous people who are thought to have settled in the region as early as 800 BC, built much of what you’ll see here. It is Central America’s second largest ceremonial site.

How to Travel to Oaxaca

Oaxaca is best reached via Xoxocotlán International, a smaller airport located in the capital city. Direct flights from the United States land in Los Angeles, Dallas, and Houston. If you’re going to the beach, you’ll almost certainly need to transfer. The majority of Americans flying into Puerto Escondido Airport will have a layover in either Guadalajara or Mexico City. But that could change soon as the Pacific coast community grows in popularity as a tourist destination.

Oaxaca’s Best Beaches

Puerto Escondido is gaining popularity among beachgoers these days. And with reason: its tropical seas are breathtakingly beautiful, and its community is undeniably charming. However, Oaxaca state has over 300 miles of coastline, so there’s plenty more to explore beyond the obvious destinations.

Mazunte, with its cerulean surf crashing into the jagged shore, is a good example. Given the warm and welcoming vibe of the locals, you’ll have no trouble settling in. In town, visit the Mexican Turtle Center, which is devoted to the preservation of everyone’s favorite slow-moving reptile.

If you want to get somewhere quickly, head several miles east along the coast to Zipolite. This sand is being pummeled by powerful waves, which are popular with surfers. Others, however, prefer to simply lie and tan while watching the sunset over the surrounding cliffs. Alternatively, you can snorkel the protected coral reefs of neighboring Huatulco National Park.

Best hotels in Oaxaca

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