Oaxaca City travel Guide

Oaxaca City travel guide

National Airports

The main airport serving Oaxaca City is the Xoxocotlán International Airport (OAX).

Trains in Oaxaca City

Unfortunately, there are no passenger trains that operate within the city of Oaxaca. The city’s main railway station is used for freight transport and is located in San Juan Chapultepec, which is about 4 km from the city center.

Buses in Oaxaca City

Oaxaca City has a well-developed network of buses that provide transportation within the city and to nearby towns and villages. The main bus terminal in Oaxaca City is the Central de Abastos bus station, which has connections to various destinations in the state of Oaxaca and other parts of Mexico. There are also smaller bus terminals throughout the city that provide transportation to nearby towns and villages.

Local buses in Oaxaca City are known as “colectivos” or “combis”, which are small vans or buses that run along fixed routes throughout the city. These are an inexpensive and convenient way to get around, with fares typically costing less than 10 pesos.

There are also taxis available throughout the city, which can be hailed on the street or called in advance. Taxis in Oaxaca City are generally safe and affordable, but it’s important to negotiate the fare in advance to avoid overcharging.

For travelers who prefer to explore the city on foot, many of Oaxaca City’s main attractions are located within walking distance of each other in the historic center.

How to get to Oaxaca City

Oaxaca City can be reached by air, bus, or car.

By Air: Oaxaca’s Xoxocotlán International Airport (OAX) is located about 7.5 km (4.7 mi) south of Oaxaca City. The airport serves both domestic and international flights from major cities in Mexico and the United States. From the airport, you can take a taxi, bus, or shuttle service to get to the city center.

By Bus: Oaxaca City is well-connected by bus to major cities in Mexico. There are several bus companies that operate from Mexico City, Puebla, Veracruz, Acapulco, and other nearby cities. The bus station in Oaxaca City is located in the northeast part of the city center, and from there, you can take a taxi or local bus to get to your destination.

By Car: Oaxaca City can be reached by car from major cities in Mexico, but the roads can be narrow and winding. If you are driving from Mexico City, take the federal highway 190 south, which leads directly to Oaxaca City. However, it is important to note that driving in Mexico can be challenging, so it is recommended that you rent a car with a GPS or hire a driver to get around.

What is the best time to travel to Oaxaca City

The best time to travel to Oaxaca City is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. The weather during this time is sunny and mild, with low humidity and little rainfall. The months of December and January can be particularly busy due to the holiday season, so if you prefer a quieter trip, consider traveling in November, February, or March. Keep in mind that temperatures can drop significantly at night, especially during the winter months, so be sure to bring warm layers.

How to get around Oaxaca City

The historic center of Oaxaca City is relatively small and can be easily explored on foot. However, if you need to travel further out or have mobility issues, there are several options for getting around the city:

Taxis: Taxis are plentiful in Oaxaca and can be hailed on the street or booked through an app. It is advisable to agree on the fare before getting in.

Colectivos: Colectivos are shared vans or minibuses that operate on set routes around the city. They are an affordable and convenient way to get around.

Buses: Oaxaca has a network of local buses that run throughout the city and surrounding areas. Fares are very cheap, but the buses can be crowded and not very comfortable.

Car rental: If you want to explore further afield, you can rent a car in Oaxaca. There are several car rental companies located at the airport and in the city center.

Bicycle rental: Some hotels and bike shops in the city rent out bicycles for exploring the city. Oaxaca is becoming more bike-friendly, with dedicated bike lanes and bike-sharing programs.

As always, it is important to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings when traveling in a new place.

Accommodations in Oaxaca City

Oaxaca City offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. Some popular options include:

Hotels: There are many hotels in the city, ranging from luxury hotels to budget-friendly options. Some of the most popular areas to stay in include the historic center, Santo Domingo neighborhood, and Reforma neighborhood.

Hostels: Oaxaca City also has several hostels that cater to backpackers and budget travelers. Many of these hostels offer dormitory-style accommodations as well as private rooms.

Vacation Rentals: Another popular option is to rent a vacation home or apartment through websites like Airbnb or Vrbo. This can be a good option for families or groups who want more space and privacy.

Bed and Breakfasts: Oaxaca City also has several bed and breakfasts that offer a more personalized and intimate experience. These are often located in historic buildings and offer a glimpse into local culture and traditions.

Guesthouses: Similar to bed and breakfasts, guesthouses are smaller, family-run accommodations that offer a more authentic experience. These are often located in residential neighborhoods and offer a chance to connect with locals.