Several times a month, people ask for recommendations on the best places to stay in Oaxaca. Since my first trip in 2006, I’ve booked everything from apartments and homes, to bed and breakfasts and hotels. I hope this guide inspires your next trip to central Oaxaca!
WHY YOU’LL LOVE OAXACA
Delicious Cuisine: this culinary gem is widely regarded as one of the best food destinations in Mexico.
Rich Cultural Heritage: it is a melting pot of indigenous groups, each with its unique customs, traditions, and cuisines.
Natural Beauty: home to the majestic Sierra Madre mountains, several national parks, ancient archeological sites, natural mineral springs, and so much more!
WHERE IS THE BEST PLACE TO STAY IN OAXACA?
This is one of the questions I get asked A LOT and while I enjoy hotel amenities, I love the cozy atmosphere of a bed and breakfast. Before you book anything, be sure to do your research to see what’s a fit for your budget, criteria, andfamily’s needs.
If you’re looking for unique Oaxaca accommodations, the possibilities are endless. I’ve stayed at quite a few places throughout the nearly 20 years I’ve been visiting Oaxaca City and the bed and breakfasts offer a more intimate cultural experience than you’d get at any hotel. Although La Quinta Real hotel is absolutely beautiful. There are budget and luxury accommodations of all types, family-friendly hotels in Oaxaca, boutique hotels and Airbnb rentals for romantic getaways, relaxing escapes for girls’ trips and retreats, and everything in between.
WHAT I LOOK FOR WHEN BOOKING ACCOMMODATIONS IN OAXACA
Since I typically travel with children, my criteria are every-changing, but I always look into places with:
- Minimal stairs to climb and railing (many staircases in Mexico are floating with no railing)
- Completely enclosed courtyards for kids to play
- Portable crib for the baby
- Refrigerator to store food and drinks
- Central location, which changes based on where I need to be or what I need to see
- Access to activities for kids, a pool is a plus especially in the hot summer months, but typically these options are limited
- Parking if I am renting a car during my stay
- Access to amercado or grocery store, within walking distance
OAXACA BED AND BREAKFAST OPTIONS
Oaxaca’s bed and breakfasts are absolutely lovely! In Oaxaca, most bed and breakfast stays actually include breakfast and access to a communal refrigerator to store drinks and small snacks.
Casa Lyobaa – $
Amado, Valentina, and I wanted to move here! After spending a few weeks in downtown Oaxaca over the summer, we decided to pack our bags and explore the small town of Mitla, which is where we discovered Casa Lyobaa. This hacienda-style retreat is walking distance from the Mercado de Artesanías and zona arqueológica. The kids and I loved our daily visits to the mercado in the mototaxi and preparing our meals in the fully-stocked kitchen. We also enjoyed touring the grounds – the flora and fauna is breathtaking, relaxing on the hammocks under the huge palapa, and taking a dip in the pool. This place is definitely kid-friendly and Sylvia and her husband went above and beyond to accommodate us. Each private guest room has two full beds, a twin bed, and if you’re traveling with an infant, there are cribs available, too.
Encanto Jalatlaco – $
I haven’t actually stayed here, but I did visit with my friend Conchita, owner of of La Casa de Mis Recuerdos. Encanto Jalatlaco is her daughter’s bed and breakfast right in the heart of the hip Jalatlaco neighborhood and is absolutely charming. It’s about a 10-minute walk from Santo Domingo and just like her mother’s bed and breakfast, you’ll be swept off your feet when you enter and take in all of the beautiful flowers, succulents, and outdoor garden space. Another perk is that the rooms are detached, so it’s great if traveling with older children.
Estancia Valencia – $$
The rooms and décor at Estancia Valencia are absolutely stunning. I loved unwinding here after being out and about all day. The small patio area and fountain are so relaxing. It’s also centrally located in Oaxaca’s centro historico – only four blocks from Santo Domingo. I’m always nervous staying at bed and breakfasts with children, but it’s one of the few that are family-friendly. I stayed here for a couple of days with my mom and Amado when he was four although I’d probably stay somewhere else if traveling with an infant because the rooms are all within the home, so I wouldn’t want to take away from another guest’s experience with a crying baby.
La Betulia – $$
La Betulia was one of Oaxaca’s hot new bed and breakfasts when I visited in 2019. I stayed here with a group of food bloggers, chefs, and food aficionados during a week-long retreat. Guests at La Betulia convene daily for a delightful outdoor breakfast that features a yogurt bar with homemade yogurt, granola, jams, seasonal fruit, pan dulce, and fresh juices. Breakfast specialties include huevos rancheros, enfrijoladas, huevos en salsa, quesadillas, tamales, and other Mexican favorites. The décor at La Betulia combines Mexico’s vibrant colors with a clean, contemporary twist. Let’s just say, there are plenty of photo opps! The owners also rent apartments that are centrally located, if you prefer to cook for yourself.
La Casa de Mis Recuerdos – $$
La Casa de Mis Recuerdos is one of the oldest and most beautiful bed and breakfasts in Oaxaca and proprietors Conchita Arroyo Cabrera and Moises Valencia have been receiving guests in their colonial style home for over 35 years. From the moment you enter the courtyard it’s apparent where its name derives as you find yourself lost in a magical world of patios, terraces, and flower-covered walls. Also, you can’t beat the location. It’s a five-minute walk to Santo Domingo and a two minute walk to the famous esquites with sal de chapulín at El Llano.
OAXACA HOTELS
I’ve only stayed at a hotel on my very first visit to Oaxaca and since then, have booked apartments, homes, and bed and breakfasts because my stays are typically anywhere between four to eight weeks and I find that there are better options for extended stays.
Quinta Real Oaxaca – $$
This is where I stayed on my first visit to Oaxaca in 2006. My sister enjoys the finer things in life, and of course looked into luxury hotels in Oaxaca. She picked this one because it is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Cultural Site and former convent (we like thinking that the nuns haunt the historic hotel). The grounds are breathtaking, guest rooms impeccably clean, rustic, and beautiful, and the architecture and gardens are perfect for instagrammable photo shoots. While it’s larger than a bed and breakfast, it definitely doesn’t feel like a chain and still offers an intimate experience with outdoor dining in the open courtyard. I’d say it’s probably one of the most beautiful and historical boutique hotels in Oaxaca.
OAXACA VACATION RENTAL / APARTMENTS
There are a number of long-term home and apartment rental options nowadays and the first place I look for this is AirBnB. Most hosts offer discounts for extended stays, too.For longer trips (four to eight weeks), I look into Oaxaca vacation rentals such as apartments and private homes.
La Heredad (Private Home) – $$
Once I began traveling with more than one child, it was convenient to have separate rooms, our own kitchen, and space for the kids to sprawl out. I also like to be centrally located in Oaxaca’s Centro Histórico so that we can walk to our favorite restaurants, markets, and activities. Since I usually stay for several weeks, a washer is also a useful amenity! La Herded is beautifully decorated and has plenty of space for our small family. The kitchen is perfect to prepare our family meals, and when we
Tierra del Sol Apartments– $
I stayed at Tierra del Sol while conducting my thesis research in Oaxaca. It was safe and centrally located — walking distance from all of the action, but far enough removed to avoid loud crowds during festivals and on weekends. The apartments are fully furnished and include wi-fi and weekly housekeeping. If you don’t feel like going out to eat, pick up some prime ingredients from one of the local markets and make use of the kitchen! Barbara, the landlady and owner of the apartments, is an absolute gem to work with as well. This is a great place if you’re on an extended trip (two or more months).
I do hope this guide helps narrow down your Oaxaca lodging options. If there are other places that you’ve absolutely loved, please let me know so I can check them out the next time I’m in town!
FAQS
Is Oaxaca safe for tourists? Oaxaca is generally considered safe for tourists, but as with any travel destination, visitors should exercise caution and take appropriate safety measures, such as staying in well-lit areas at night and avoiding carrying large amounts of cash or wearing expensive or flashy jewelry.
What is the best time to visit Oaxaca?It depends. If you base your travel on weather, the dry season, which runs from November to April has warm, sunny days and cooler nights, making it pleasant for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Although the city comes to life in November and July is when the city comes to life with its annual Day of the Dead and Guelaguetza cultural celebrations! Keep in mind: this is when there are A LOT of tourists and summer is Oaxaca’s rainy season.
What are some popular attractions to see in Oaxaca? Some popular attractions in Oaxaca include the historic center of Oaxaca City, Monte Alban archaeological site, Hierve el Agua natural springs, and the Guelaguetza cultural festival. I always, ALWAYS recommend taking a cooking class while there.
What languages are spoken in Oaxaca? Spanish is the primary language spoken in Oaxaca, although there are many indigenous languages still spoken throughout the region.
What is the dress code in Oaxaca? The dress code in Oaxaca is generally casual and relaxed, although visitors should dress appropriately when visiting religious or cultural sites. Tourists stick out like sore thumbs when wearing: hats, backpacks, fanny packs, flip flops, and shorts.
LOOKING FOR MORE INSPIRATION?
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Interview with Ariadna Vásquez, Co-Founder of Oaxaca’s Central de Diseño and Almacén Mexicano
Interview with Pia Aiko Tokiyama, Owner of Oaxaca’s La Betulia Bed and Breakfast
A Food Lover’s Guide to 3 Market Days in Oaxaca
Fideo Seco with Guajillo Chile, al Estilo Oaxaca
10 Common Questions I Get When Traveling to Mexico with My Kids
FAQs
How many nights do you need in Oaxaca? ›
If you're unsure of how many days in Oaxaca you need, rest assured that three days is plenty. With 3 days in Oaxaca City, you have ample time to slurp up its rich gastronomy, marvel at its centuries-old architecture, stroll through its sprawling local markets, and stand in awe as you explore ancient Zapotec ruins.
How much does it cost to rent an apartment in Oaxaca Mexico? ›| Expenses | U.S. $ |
|---|---|
| Rent (two-bedroom apartment) | $600 |
| Utilities | $60 |
| Groceries | $325 |
| Entertainment | $250 |
Where should I live in Oaxaca? When thinking about moving to Oaxaca, the location is key. One of the best areas to live in is Centro since everything is very handy here. However living in Jalatlaco, Reforma or even Xochimilco boroughs is becoming more trendy among expats too.
Where is the best place to live in Oaxaca Mexico? ›Because Oaxaca has a relatively low crime rate, most neighborhoods are safe to stay in. The Oaxaca Centro, Santo Domingo, Barrio de Xochimilco, Barrio de la Noria, and Reforma are all safe places to stay in Oaxaca.
What is the best month to visit Oaxaca? ›The best time to travel to Oaxaca Mexico is during the dry season from October to April. Now, the temperate weather in Oaxaca City means you can visit year-round, though October to April are the nicest months, weather-wise. The most beautiful weather is between late-January and early-March.
What is the best time of year to visit Oaxaca city? ›The best times to visit Oaxaca are during the months of April to May and September to October. Both spring and fall are characterized by moderate temperatures and fewer tourists. The months between June and August, as well as the holiday season between mid-December and early-January, constitute high season.
Can a US citizen rent an apartment in Mexico? ›The requirements and documents that the landlord will ask of you to rent a property will vary. However, the most common ones are the following: Proof of identity: You can use your passport or your ID card. Proof of residency: Documents issued by the Mexican authorities, if you are a foreigner (FMM form)
What is the average rent in Mexico in US dollars? ›The monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in an average area of Mexico City will cost about USD$400-$500. In a nicer area, expect to pay around USD$680-$830 per month.
How many Americans live in Oaxaca city? ›Of these, 16,427 American expats living in Oaxaca, 853 from Central America, 526 from South America, 729 from Europe and 101 from Asia.
What is the best neighborhood to stay in Oaxaca? ›- Centro Histórico: Downtown Oaxaca. The easy answer for where to stay in Oaxaca Centro — is downtown. ...
- Oaxaca Zocalo: Main Square. ...
- Santo Domingo Oaxaca City. ...
- Barrio de la Noria Oaxaca City. ...
- Barrio de Jalatlaco Oaxaca City. ...
- Barrio de Xochimilco Oaxaca City. ...
- Reforma Oaxaca City.
What are the safest areas in Oaxaca? ›
Safest Areas of Oaxaca
Oaxaca has a relatively low crime rate for a large city, and neighborhoods frequented by visitors, such as Centro, Santo Domingo, Barrio de Xochimilco, Barrio de la Noria, Barrio de Jalatlaco and Reforma are considered generally safe.
Los Cabos Is The Top Destination For American Expats In Mexico - Travel Off Path.
Is Oaxaca walkable? ›Oaxaca, cradle of The Day of the Dead (Dia de los Muertos), alebrijes, and mole' sauce, offers up a great backdrop to excellent walking, urban hiking, and hiking.
What is the famous street in Oaxaca? ›Macedonio Alcalá Street, one of the best things to do in Oaxaca, Oaxaca | Experts in Mexico.
Is Uber available in Oaxaca? ›Is there Uber in Oaxaca City, Oaxaca? No — There's no Uber Oaxaca City service; only taxis, the DiDi Rider App, and public transport vans called colectivos.
How many days is good for Oaxaca? ›You might be wondering how many days in Oaxaca you'll need. The answer, of course, depends on what you want to do and see while you're in the city. If you're interested in exploring the region, we suggest spending at least two or three days in Oaxaca.
What is the rainy season in Oaxaca? ›Oaxaca has a dry season and a wet season. The dry season in Oaxaca usually lasts from October through April while the wet season roughly begins in May and ends in September.
Does Oaxaca get cold at night? ›Throughout the year you can expect it to be quite warm or hot during the day, and it may get chilly at night, so bring a light jacket or sweater. From November to January it can be quite cold at night.
Is the water warm in Oaxaca? ›Oaxaca has sea temperatures in the range of 27 °C (81 °F) - 30 °C (86 °F) throughout the year.
Do you need to speak Spanish to visit Oaxaca? ›Spanish is the official language spoken in Oaxaca. As long as you know a few key phrases, such as buenos dias (good morning), por favor (please) and gracias (thank you), you should be able to get around this tourist-friendly city just fine.
Are there mosquitoes in Oaxaca City? ›
The risk for mosquito activity is extremely high. Wear long-sleeved shirts and pants when spending time outdoors to prevent bites.
How long can I stay in Mexico as a US resident? ›General Information. A visitor visa allows you to stay in Mexico for a period of up to 180 days, provided that you are not carrying out any paid activities.
How long can a US resident live in Mexico? ›Can Americans Legally Live in Mexico? By law, American tourists can stay in Mexico for up to six months. For many snowbirds and retirees, six months is more than enough. They head south for the chilly winter months and come back to enjoy spring and summer stateside.
Can I buy a house in USA if I live in Mexico? ›Anyone may buy and own property in the United States, regardless of citizenship. There are no laws or restrictions that prevent an individual of any foreign citizenship from owning or buying a home in the U.S.
Can you live in Mexico on $3000 a month? ›Mexico In Mexico, International Living says, a couple can live on $1,500 to $3,000 a month including rent and health care depending on location. Most people will visit home or have friends and family visit. Our staff are also friendly and enjoy helping visitors to have a comfortable stay with us.
Can I retire in Mexico on $1,500 a month? ›“On average, you can live a very comfortable life in Mexico with a budget of $1,500 to $3,000 per month,” said Gene Caballero, co-founder of GreenPal. “This would cover your housing, meals, utilities, healthcare and even some entertainment and leisure activities.”
Can I live in Mexico for $2,500 a month? ›Average Cost to Retire in Mexico
A retired couple can expect to retire comfortably in Mexico with an average income of about $2,500 a month, or $30,000 a year, according to InternationalLiving.com.
Foreigners have the right to acquire a property in Mexico no matter if they have or not the Mexican residence.
Is the WIFI in Oaxaca good? ›Oaxaca City's Internet Speed
Much to our surprise, Oaxaca City had one of the best wifi speeds compared to other Mexican towns or cities we've lived in.
Monterrey is Mexico's wealthiest city in terms of per capita income. It is also considered to be the most “Americanized” city in the country.
How far is the beach from downtown Oaxaca? ›
From Oaxaca City to the nearest beach, it is about 250 kilometers and usually takes about 7 to 8 hours of driving. It is not possible to do a day trip to the beach from Oaxaca City.
What makes Oaxaca so special? ›Oaxaca is the most ethnically and linguistically diverse state in México. Of the 570 municipalities in Oaxaca, 418 of them are predominantly indigenous. This translates to the fact that there are more speakers of indigenous languages in the state of Oaxaca than in any other state in Mexico.
Why is Oaxaca so popular? ›The indigenous cultures of Oaxaca permeate every part of life. The food, the pottery, the mezcal, the textiles, everything. What is this? All of these cultures seamlessly converge to become one, and that's why culture of Oaxaca is so interesting, rich, and beautiful.
Is it safe to walk in Oaxaca at night? ›FAQs About Safety in Oaxaca
It's safe to walk in Oaxaca at night, especially in a group. It's recommended that solo female travelers explore downtown Oaxaca with friends at night, but the beach areas are generally safe.
There is definitely a cartel presence in these areas, as three of the biggest Mexico party towns. What is this? By comparison, you rarely get offered to buy drugs in Oaxaca City. However, it can happen on the beaches of Oaxaca, particularly Puerto Escondido, which has a big party scene.
Is Oaxaca safe from cartels? ›In general, tourists in Mexico rarely get caught up in disputes between rival drug gangs and that's especially true for Oaxaca, a state that has been mostly spared from the violence.
What city in Mexico do Americans retire to? ›San Miguel de Allende
“Most Americans who choose to retire in Mexico opt for San Miguel Allende,” said John Hubbard, the founder and CEO of Urban Dare. “That's because it offers a temperate climate all year round. Low-cost and high-quality healthcare is also available.
In 2022, a record number of Americans relocated to Mexico, with Mexico City as a top destination.
Where is the safest place to live in Mexico for Americans? ›The city in Mexico considered the safest with the lowest crime rate is Merida, located in Yucatan. It's also one of the most affordable cities in Mexico, making it a popular destination for retirees and expats. Merida's low crime rate makes it an excellent choice for visiting or living.
How do you spend 3 days in Oaxaca? ›- Ethnobotanical Gardens.
- Mercado de Benito Juarez.
- Lunch at 20 de Noviembre Market.
- Mercado de Artesanias.
- La Casa de Artesanias.
- Templo de Santo Domingo.
- Dinner at El Destilado.
How long is Oaxaca good for? ›
Store in the coldest part of your refrigerator for up to one week. If you notice any mold growing on the cheese, it should be discarded. Freezing Oaxaca cheese will negatively affect its texture for fresh applications, but frozen and thawed cheese can still melt well when used for cooking.
How many days should I stay in Guanajuato? ›Then my itinerary of what to do and see in Guanajuato is just what you need! From arriving as a newbie in this city to checking off my entire bucket list, I can safely say spending 3-4 days here is the perfect amount of time to explore the best of Guanajuato City (and even work in a day trip to San Miguel de Allende).
Is Oaxaca a walkable city? ›With a whopping 1200 historic monuments and an extraordinary concentration of restaurants, galleries and museums spread out across 247 blocks, the easily walkable downtown has well earned its Unesco World Heritage badge.
Do you need cash in Oaxaca? ›Take your essentials and always carry cash
You'll need a passport for international travel, a driver's license if you're renting a car, and credit or debit cards (but always carry cash as some businesses do not accept plastic).
Mexico City is home to the largest celebrations, including the famous Mexico City Day of the Dead Parade. But Oaxaca has some of the most spiritual and unique Dia de los Muertos traditions. Guided Day of the Dead tours to Oaxaca sell out each year, but it is possible to visit on your own.
Do I need pesos in Oaxaca? ›What currency is used in Oaxaca? The Mexican peso (often prefixed with a “$” sign) is the currency of Mexico and Oaxaca. Most major shops and restaurants in Oaxaca accept credit cards, but it is a good idea to have some peso cash on hand for museum entry and small purchases like bottled water and snacks.
Can I wear shorts in Oaxaca? ›What to wear in Oaxaca during the day. As the temperature will be mild, clothing during the day in Oaxaca can be whatever you feel comfortable in the heat. Women tend to wear dresses, leggings, jeans or shorts, and men wear jeans or shorts. You may also want to wear a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
What is the hottest month in Oaxaca? ›average temperature Oaxaca
May is the warmest month of the year. The temperature in May averages 19.6 °C | 67.2 °F. January is the coldest month, with temperatures averaging 15.0 °C | 59.1 °F.
The main meal of the day, la comida, is served from about 2pm until 4pm. Thanks to the menu del día usually offered on weekdays, you can fill up for little money.
Is it better to stay in San Miguel de Allende or Guanajuato? ›San Miguel has better restaurants, Guanajuato, better museums. San Miguel has more examples of colonial architecture, Guanajuato's is more of the Porfiriato style. I would do 4 nights in GTO and 2 nights in SMA. There is also Dolores Hidalgo too the site of the start of the Mexican revolution.
How many days is enough in San Miguel de Allende? ›
San Miguel de Allende is a beautiful city with many tourist attractions and a renowned culinary scene, so it's best to allocate at least two days to visit it.
What is Guanajuato known for? ›What is Guanajuato Known For? Guanajuato is known for its local hero, El Pípila, having underground tunnels, its silver mines, and of course, the many gorgeous colorful alleyways.
Is it safe to walk in Oaxaca city at night? ›FAQs About Safety in Oaxaca
It's safe to walk in Oaxaca at night, especially in a group. It's recommended that solo female travelers explore downtown Oaxaca with friends at night, but the beach areas are generally safe.