The 9 Best Things to Do When in the City of Oaxaca, Mexico

On your next holiday, head down to Oaxaca, Mexico and book a hotel room at Villa Vera Oaxaca to see and experience the state's finest offerings.

1. Visit Mitla

Discover caves and ruins at Mitla, one of the most important archaeological sites here. Aside from prehistoric caverns, this place also has ancient churches and fortresses. Even if you are not inclined with the arts or architectural design, the brickwork on several of the structures is truly a sight to behold.

2. See Arbol El Tule

Make sure to visit the 2,000-year-old tree in Santa Maria de Tule. Aside from taking pictures, you and your group can also spend the afternoon strolling and admiring the majestic garden surrounding this beautiful tree.

3. Enjoy the Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca

If you are interested in seeing more wonderful things and learning more about Oaxaca at the same time, visit Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca. This former monastery located next to Iglesia Santo Domingo has a grandiose exterior and interior design, plus a captivating collection of pearls, jade, silver, and gold recovered from the Zapotec tombs at Monte Alban.

4. Check out Huatulco

Huatulco is one of the finest tourist developments in the city. It is located in the town of La Crucecita and offers various amazing landscapes, views, beaches, and Oaxaca accommodation.

5. Buy a molcajete

Looking for the perfect souvenir? You should definitely buy a molcajete, the local version of a mortar and pestle. This heavy-duty kitchen tool usually costs around MXN100 at the 20 de Noviembre strip outside the marketplace.

6. Eat a mole

This dish is not made from those velvety furred subterranean animals so don’t be alarmed. Mole is a kind of sauce usually eaten with many Mexican dishes. Aside from the usual favorites like tacos, fajitas, and burritos, you should try this during your stay.

7. Take a cooking class with Pilar Cabrera

Learn to cook authentic Mexican dishes from one of the best chefs in Oaxaca. Pilar Cabrera is the owner of La Olla restaurant and the director of La Casa de los Sabores. She will teach you everything you need to know about Mexican cuisine.

8. Shop at Mercado La Merced

If you want to cook your own Mexican dinner at your hotel accommodation, drop by Mercado La Merced. It is the best place to get the freshest produce, meat, cheese, chilies, and more.

9. Stop by Jacobo y Maria

Lastly, if you are still planning to buy keepsakes for family and friends back home, visit this shop in San Martin Tilcajete for the finest wood carvings before leaving Villa Vera Oaxaca.