Oaxaca 3 days

The vibrant heart of Oaxaca City, this main square is lined with arcades, cafes, and is a hub for local life. It's a perfect spot to begin exploring, soak in the atmosphere, and people-watch.

• Visit on a weekend for lively street performances.
• Try a nieve (ice cream) from one of the vendors.

A magnificent Baroque cathedral located on the north side of the Zócalo. Its construction spanned centuries, and its intricate facade is a testament to its rich history.

A bustling market offering a sensory overload of Oaxacan produce, crafts, textiles, and local delicacies. It's the ideal place to sample regional foods and find unique souvenirs.

• Be adventurous and try chapulines (grasshoppers) if you dare!
• Look for high-quality mole pastes and artisanal chocolate.

Adjacent to Mercado Benito Juárez, this market is famous for its food stalls, especially the 'pasillo de humo' (smoke alley) where you can have tasajo or cecina grilled to order.

• Order your meat and then choose your sides from the surrounding stalls.
• Pair your meal with a refreshing agua fresca.

A stunning example of Baroque architecture, this former monastery and church boasts an incredibly ornate gilded interior. The adjacent Cultural Centre of Oaxaca offers further historical insights.

• Don't miss the intricate details of the ceiling and altarpiece.
• The Cultural Centre offers excellent exhibits on Oaxacan history and ethnography.

An upscale restaurant offering contemporary Oaxacan cuisine in a refined setting, often with a courtyard. It's known for its creative dishes and extensive mezcal selection.

An ancient Zapotec capital perched on a flattened mountaintop, offering panoramic views of the Oaxaca valley. Explore the pyramids, ball court, and observatory, marveling at the sophisticated civilization.

• Arrive early to avoid the crowds and the heat.
• Hire a guide at the entrance for a deeper understanding of the site's history.

Located within the former monastery of Santo Domingo, this museum houses an impressive collection of artifacts from Monte Albán and other regional archaeological sites, including the treasures from Tomb 7.

A charming, cobblestoned neighborhood known for its colorful colonial architecture and artisan workshops. It's a quieter, more bohemian area perfect for a leisurely stroll.

• Look for small galleries and studios featuring local artists.
• Enjoy a coffee or a snack at one of the quaint cafes.

A well-regarded restaurant in Jalatlaco offering creative Oaxacan dishes with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. It provides a pleasant dining experience in a picturesque setting.

Participate in a guided tasting of Oaxaca's famous spirit, mezcal. Learn about the different agave varieties, production methods, and tasting notes from an expert.

• Ask about the differences between Espadín, Tobalá, and Tepeztate mezcals.
• Ensure you have a safe way back to your accommodation.

Famous for its 'barro negro' (black pottery), this village is home to many artisan families who continue the tradition of creating distinctive polished black ceramics. Visit workshops to see the process and purchase unique pieces.

• Look for workshops that demonstrate the pottery making process.
• Ensure you're buying authentic barro negro directly from artisans.

Renowned for its vibrant alebrijes, these intricately carved and brightly painted wooden folk art sculptures. Many workshops here showcase the meticulous craftsmanship involved in their creation.

• Talk to the artisans about the meaning behind the figures.
• Be prepared for a wide range of prices depending on size and detail.

A stunning natural rock formation resembling petrified waterfalls, created by mineral springs. You can hike around the formations, swim in the mineral pools, and enjoy the scenic valley views.

• Bring swimwear and a towel if you plan to swim.
• Wear sturdy shoes for walking around the site.

A highly acclaimed restaurant in Oaxaca city offering an exquisite tasting menu that showcases the depth and innovation of Oaxacan gastronomy. It's an ideal place for a memorable farewell dinner.

• Reservations are essential, often weeks in advance.
• The tasting menu provides a comprehensive culinary journey.