Oaxaca City (officially known as Oaxaca de Juarez) is one of Mexico´s most vibrant cultural capitals and the favorite metropolis of many a well-seasoned traveler. From the original architecture dating back to the times of the arrival of the Spanish in the 16th century, to the impressive churches steeped in intrigue and saga, to entire barrios of brightly painted shops and houses, Oaxaca is a feast for the eyes and soul. It is easy to see why it was named Best City in the World 2023 by Travel + Leisure Magazine - a coveted accolade indeed…
The restaurant scene in Oaxaca City is like no other, with foodies coming from all over the world to sample everything from fantastically elevated twists on heritage recipes, to avant-garde plates and dishes that seriously push the envelope. Some of the finest dining the world has to offer can be found here, but that´s not to disregard the multitude of local cafes, cervezerias, markets and sensational street food on offer. It is in fact very difficult not to have a wonderful meal here.
At this point mezcal should most definitely be talked about. In a city surrounded by miles and miles of agave plantations, artisan, centuries old methods of production are still well respected, making for some of the best mezcal known to man. Whether you like it smooth, sharp, or smokey, young or old, Oaxaca has plenty of gorgeously intimate mezcaleria’s where you can enjoy fantastic tasting menus, often with food pairing. Most definitely a rite of passage and a must-do for anyone over 18.
Oaxaca is also very well known for its art culture, with many internationally renowned artists having come here to paint in the 1920´s and beyond, a movement that still has a strong influence today. The city is home to many, many galleries, and in addition to the abundance of fine art and sculpture, if you wander aimlessly for not too long, you can find some of the most striking examples of street art in Mexico today – from thought provoking protest pieces to traditional scenes.
Well worth a visit are the Museum of Oaxaca Cultures and The Museum of Contemporary Art. If you love your art, be sure to check out the works of Francisco Toledo, arguably one of the most iconic Mexican artists of the last century and also a force for the people in the world of power and politics, who was proud to call Oaxaca his home. As an aside, we have this great man to thank for the distinct lack of any fast-food outlets or global café chains in the whole of the historic center of the city. Thank you Francisco!
In short, there is much to discover in this dynamic and uber cool city – from shopping for hand woven textiles, beautiful handicrafts and hand painted Alebrijas, to the bar scene and nightlife, to the numerous one-off fashion stores… but you can make a start with our complimentary transport service which runs throughout the day to and from the historic center. We recommend trying to get yourself just a little bit lost in it all!
You can also talk with our knowledgeable Concierge team about anything and everything you want to do and see during your stay with us. We can assist with booking tours or restaurants, museum tickets, trips to Monte Alban or tasting tours to the home of Complice Mezcal where you can learn about the original artisan mezcal production methods which are still used to this day.
Please kindly click on the button below or kindly call or WhatsApp +52 951 646 1033 to find out more or book your experience today!