Oaxaca Travel

Overview

Oaxaca is often viewed as the most artistic city in Mexico, and its many art galleries, art students, and year-round exhibitions are signs of just that. While many people travel to Oaxaca for study, it is also a busy tourist spot, having retained its culture amidst the bustle of modernity and tourism. Just south of Mexico City, Oaxaca's population has grown considerably along with that of Mexico's capital; however, the city remains much less congested and much more easier to manage than its busier counterpart. Building regulations in the colonial district have prohibited the destruction of historic buildings; therefore, much of the city still conveys its historical charm.

Sightseeing Attractions

Oaxaca was once the home of the Mixtec and Zapotec civilizations, and some of the ruins of these ancient civilizations are still standing today. Make time to visit the Mitla, Monte Alban, and Yagul ruins for a glimpse of Mexico's indigenous past. Other attractions include the State Museum and the Museo Tamayo, and the Santo Domingo and La Soledad churches.

Nightlife

The shopping opportunities in Oaxaca are some of the best that Mexico has to offer. Check out the local markets for amazing souvenirs at very low prices. Also, as Oaxaca is Mexico's artistic center, many local artists will often sell their work in galleries and on street corners throughout the city. Dining in Oaxaca is also an adventure, with restaurants serving everything from typical Mexican cuisines to international dishes. The cheapest places to eat are through the vendors in Oaxaca's markets, though the zócalo is lined with many restaurants and cafes that are not as pricey as their location would lead one to believe. For the best drinking in the city, head to Oaxaca during one of their many fiestas. When there's not a fiesta going on, Oaxaca remains fairly quiet, with most of the drinking occurring in one of its few dance clubs.

Art Attractions

Because Oaxaca is the Mexico's artistic center, the streets are lined with galleries, artist vendors, and exhibitions. If you can only make the time to visit a few of Oaxaca's galleries, you should make sure to visit Galería Quetzalli, Arte de Oaxaca, and the Alvarez Bravo Photographic Center. These are among the best galleries in the country. Other notable galleries include Galería Indigo, Galería Ollintla, Galería 901, Galería Punto y Linea, and Manuel Garcia Arte Contemporaneo. Art vendors are generally found randomly on Oaxaca's streets, though many are often clustered in the markets alongside food and clothing items.