Oaxaca, with its vibrant blend of indigenous cultures, colonial architecture, rich culinary traditions, and colourful markets set against a backdrop of rugged mountains and sun-soaked valleys, offers visitors an immersive experience that feels both timeless and deeply rooted in the diverse heritage of southern Mexico.
Mexico: Oaxaca – Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca
A Visit to the Museum of Cultures of Oaxaca
During a recent trip to Oaxaca, I decided to shift course from my original plan and instead explore the Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca—or Museum of Cultures of Oaxaca. I knew it was housed within the vast former convent complex of Santo Domingo, one of the city’s most impressive colonial landmarks. That said, actually finding the entrance proved more challenging than I had anticipated. I ended up walking a full circuit around the perimeter of the church and its adjoining convent buildings. Through occasional gaps in the high stone walls, I caught fleeting glimpses of the city’s botanical garden—a section I had unfortunately missed, and those brief peeks were tantalising.
Eventually, and somewhat to my annoyance, I discovered that the entrance to the museum had been right there all along, adjacent to the church’s main plaza. I had walked past it at least once already without realising. Once inside and armed with my ticket, I stepped into the convent’s main courtyard. These museum courtyards in Mexico have a certain architectural grace and a quietude that is difficult to describe. This particular courtyard was no exception: two storeys of stone cloisters framed a central fountain, with sunlight flooding through the arches to create a peaceful, almost monastic atmosphere. I took a few minutes just to stand there and take it in before continuing through into the museum’s main galleries.
A Library and a Journey Through Time
Just beyond the entrance, a small historical library drew my attention. I have always had a soft spot for such places, and this one, though modest in size, held that sense of reverence and order that old libraries tend to exude. One reading room was open to visitors—sparse, quiet, and entirely free of modern distraction. Behind a glass partition, a second room could be seen, reserved for researchers. There, a large and ancient volume rested on a padded cradle, seemingly caught in the middle of some scholarly consultation. It was a fine prelude to what lay ahead.
The museum itself enjoys a solid reputation as one of Mexico’s best regional collections, and I found that it lived up to this acclaim. It presents the history of the state of Oaxaca across fifteen thoughtfully arranged galleries. The exhibitions follow a chronological and thematic flow that clearly lays out the development of Oaxaca’s civilisations, from pre-Hispanic societies through to the present day. While most of the signage was in Spanish, the quality of the curation meant that even with limited language skills, one could understand the intent and context behind each display.
Treasures of the Past and a Long-Awaited View
For me, the early galleries were the most absorbing, especially those focusing on the Zapotec and Mixtec cultures. The sculpture was especially striking: clay figures of deities and spirits that ranged from the grotesque to the serene. Some were finely detailed with expressive features, others stylised and stark, but all spoke of a refined and symbolic aesthetic. I spent a good deal of time in these galleries, drawn into the visual storytelling and the artistic accomplishment on display.
At the end of one corridor, I came upon an open-air balcony that delivered a surprise reward. From here, I had a full and unobstructed view over the Jardín Etnobotánico, which had eluded me earlier in the day. Now, at last, I could appreciate the garden in its entirety. Geometric arrangements of cacti and native plants stretched out below, framed by stone paths and set within an arid, curated landscape. It was a small compensation for having missed the official tour, but a satisfying one.
Of all the galleries, room three left the deepest impression. It holds the treasures excavated from Tomb 7 at Monte Albán, an important archaeological site not far from the city. This tomb, originally Zapotec and later repurposed by the Mixtecs, was discovered in 1932 by the archaeologist Alfonso Caso. What he found was extraordinary: a hoard of gold ornaments, turquoise-inlaid skulls, coral beads, jade figurines, bone carvings, crystal vessels, and other items of remarkable craftsmanship. The collection is dazzling in both scale and refinement, a clear reflection of the wealth and artistry of the region’s ancient civilisations.
The later galleries, covering Oaxaca’s colonial history and the post-independence period, were somewhat less engaging to me personally but still well presented.
The final room I visited was dedicated to a temporary exhibition—a contemporary reflection on Oaxacan identity and tradition. It was a thoughtful and visually engaging end to the visit. All in all, the Museum of Cultures of Oaxaca proved not only a window into the region’s complex past but a gentle reminder of the layered and ongoing story that continues to unfold here.
Planning your visit to the Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca
📍 Location
The Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca is situated in the heart of Oaxaca City, within the historic Santo Domingo Cultural Centre complex. The exact address is:
Andador Macedonio Alcalá s/n, Centro, 68000 Oaxaca de Juárez, Oaxaca, Mexico.
The museum is housed in the former Santo Domingo de Guzmán monastery, a striking baroque building adjoining the iconic Santo Domingo Church.
🚶♂️ How to Get There
The museum is easily accessible by foot if you’re staying anywhere in Oaxaca’s historic centre. From the Zócalo (main square), it’s a pleasant 10 to 15-minute walk north along pedestrian-friendly Calle Macedonio Alcalá.
If travelling from further afield:
By taxi: Taxis are readily available throughout the city. Ask for “Museo de Santo Domingo”.
By public transport: Several local buses pass near the area, but these can be difficult to navigate for visitors unfamiliar with the routes.
By car: Parking in the immediate area is limited and often full. A taxi or walking is generally more convenient.
🌐 Contact Details
Website: https://mna.inah.gob.mx (official site shared with other national museums)
Telephone: +52 951 516 2991
Email: contacto.museos@inah.gob.mx
🕰 Opening Hours
Tuesday to Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Closed on Mondays
Plan your visit with at least two hours to explore the full museum comfortably. Guided tours may be available on-site in Spanish.
💵 Entry Fees
General admission: $85 MXN
Free: Sundays for Mexican nationals and residents (with ID)
Tickets are available at the entrance. There are occasional temporary exhibitions that may have separate entry charges.
This museum is one of the most comprehensive in southern Mexico, offering a deep dive into Oaxaca’s diverse cultural heritage, from pre-Hispanic civilisations to colonial and contemporary history — well worth planning into your itinerary.
Getting to and around Oaxaca
✈️ Getting to Oaxaca, Mexico
Oaxaca City, officially known as Oaxaca de Juárez, is the capital of the state of Oaxaca in southern Mexico. While it feels a world away from the frenetic pace of Mexico City, it’s relatively easy to reach, especially if you’re arriving from a major hub.
From the UK, the most practical route is to fly into Mexico City first. Direct flights from London to Mexico City operate regularly with airlines such as British Airways and Aeroméxico. Once in Mexico, you can either take a domestic flight to Oaxaca or travel overland. Flights from Mexico City to Oaxaca Xoxocotlán International Airport (OAX) are frequent, with a journey time of just under 1.5 hours. Carriers such as Aeroméxico, Viva Aerobus, and Volaris all operate this route.
If you prefer to travel by land, several long-distance bus services make the journey from Mexico City to Oaxaca. ADO is the main operator, offering comfortable, air-conditioned coaches with onboard toilets. The trip takes around 6 to 7 hours, depending on the service and traffic. For those already in Puebla or San Cristóbal de las Casas, bus connections to Oaxaca are also available and reliable, though from San Cristóbal the journey is considerably longer and more winding.
🚶♀️ Getting Around Oaxaca
The historic centre of Oaxaca is compact and largely walkable, with most major sights, restaurants, markets, and museums within easy reach of one another. Cobbled streets and colonial buildings dominate the landscape, and wandering on foot is the best way to take it all in. The Zócalo, or main square, serves as a useful reference point, with many attractions radiating outward from there.
For slightly longer journeys within the city—such as to Monte Albán, the airport, or accommodation on the outskirts—taxis and ride-hailing services like DiDi are readily available. DiDi is more commonly used in Oaxaca than Uber and tends to be affordable and safe. You can also flag down street taxis, but as always, it’s a good idea to agree the fare in advance if not using an app.
Public transport in Oaxaca is basic but functional. A network of small local buses and colectivos (shared taxis or minibuses) serve the wider urban area and surrounding villages. These are mostly used by locals and can be tricky to navigate without some Spanish and a rough idea of the routes. That said, they offer a cheap and authentic way to reach nearby artisan towns such as Teotitlán del Valle or San Bartolo Coyotepec, if you’re feeling adventurous.
For day trips further afield—like Hierve el Agua, Mitla, or the Tlacolula Sunday market—you can book a guided tour, hire a private driver, or rent a car. Oaxaca’s roads are manageable, but some are winding and slow, particularly if you’re heading into the mountains. Planning your transport ahead of time can make for a smoother experience.
Eating out for vegans in Oaxaca
🥗 Vegan Food in Oaxaca, Mexico
Oaxaca is best known for its rich, traditional cuisine, but it’s also becoming an increasingly welcoming place for plant-based eaters. From casual cafés to organic markets, there’s a growing selection of vegan-friendly spots to try. Here are some of the best options in the city:
🌿 Hierba Dulce – Centro Histórico
A fully vegan restaurant located just a short walk from the Zócalo. Hierba Dulce blends traditional Oaxacan ingredients with a modern plant-based twist. Think tlayudas, mole, and tamales—all entirely vegan. The space is calm and relaxed, ideal for a leisurely lunch.
📍 Address: Calle Porfirio Díaz 110, Centro, Oaxaca
🌐 Instagram: @hierbadulceoaxaca
🍜 Açaí Vegan – Reforma
A bright and casual vegan café offering smoothie bowls, vegan tacos, salads, and hearty bowls. It’s a good spot for breakfast or a light lunch, especially if you’re after something fresh and colourful.
📍 Address: Av. Heroico Colegio Militar 110, Reforma, Oaxaca
🌐 Instagram: @acaiveganoaxaca
🛒 Verde Morada – Organic Shop & Deli
A small organic shop and deli carrying plant-based pantry goods, fresh produce, and vegan-friendly snacks. They also serve prepared meals, juices, and coffees with non-dairy milk. A good place to stock up on basics if you’re self-catering.
📍 Address: Calle de Manuel Doblado 100, Centro, Oaxaca
🌐 Instagram: @verdemoradaoaxaca
🍽️ Tierra del Sol – Fine Dining with Vegan Options
While not exclusively vegan, this upscale restaurant—run by celebrated Oaxacan chef Olga Cabrera—offers beautifully prepared regional dishes with plant-based adaptations available upon request. The rooftop setting is particularly lovely at sunset.
📍 Address: Av. Reforma 411, Centro, Oaxaca
🌐 Website: tierradelsol.com.mx
🧁 Boulenc – Artisan Bakery & Café
Boulenc is a favourite for both locals and travellers, known for its artisan breads and brunch menu. Though not a vegan bakery, they usually have a few clearly marked vegan pastries, as well as oat or almond milk for coffee. Expect a queue at peak times.
📍 Address: Calle Porfirio Díaz 207, Centro, Oaxaca
🌐 Instagram: @boulenc_oaxaca
🥙 Itanoni – Traditional Tortilla Spot
Famous for its heirloom corn and hand-pressed tortillas, Itanoni is a traditional Oaxacan eatery that happens to be very vegan-friendly. Try the memelas, tetelas, and tostadas with simple toppings like beans, avocado, and local greens.
📍 Address: Belisario Domínguez 513, Reforma, Oaxaca
🌐 No website – cash only
🌱 Finca Orgánica – Juice Bar & Light Fare
Ideal for a quick juice, smoothie, or plant-based snack. They also serve soups, salads, and vegan tortas. Great for a healthy recharge during the day, with a few outdoor tables available.
📍 Address: José María Pino Suárez 501, Centro, Oaxaca
🌐 Instagram: @fincaorganicaoaxaca
The best time to visit Oaxaca
📅 Best Time to Visit Oaxaca, Mexico by Season
Oaxaca is a year-round destination, but each season offers something slightly different depending on your interests, tolerance for heat or rain, and what you’d like to experience culturally. Here’s a breakdown by season using UK spelling and practical guidance:
🌼 Spring (March to May)
Overview:
Spring in Oaxaca is dry, sunny, and increasingly warm. Daytime temperatures can climb into the high 20s to low 30s Celsius, with little rainfall.
Pros:
Clear skies and warm weather
Fewer crowds than in winter
Excellent time for exploring ruins and countryside without rain
Cons:
Can get quite hot by May
Some haze or dust in rural areas due to dryness
Good for:
Outdoor sightseeing, market visits, early cultural festivals like Semana Santa (Easter)
☀️ Summer (June to August)
Overview:
Summer brings the rainy season. Expect warm days, but also regular afternoon or evening showers, particularly in July and August.
Pros:
Lush green landscapes
Cooler nights and pleasant mornings
Fewer tourists compared to high winter season
Cons:
Rain may disrupt plans in the afternoons
Some rural roads and trails can become muddy
Good for:
Cultural festivals (like Guelaguetza in July), visiting museums, culinary tours
🍂 Autumn (September to November)
Overview:
Autumn is transitional. September can still be quite wet, but by late October the rains ease off, and the city begins preparing for major celebrations.
Pros:
Pleasant temperatures and improving weather
Fewer crowds in early autumn
Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) at the end of October is one of the highlights of the year
Cons:
Risk of rain in September
Popular holidays can lead to busy accommodation and higher prices
Good for:
Photography, festivals, cultural immersion
❄️ Winter (December to February)
Overview:
Winter is dry and sunny with cooler mornings and evenings. This is peak tourist season due to the comfortable weather.
Pros:
Crisp, dry conditions ideal for walking and sightseeing
Clear views and minimal rain
Vibrant atmosphere around Christmas and New Year
Cons:
Popular time, so expect more tourists
Accommodation prices can be higher
Cooler evenings may require a jumper or light jacket
Good for:
Ruins and outdoor excursions, markets, city walking tours
🏆 Overall Recommendation:
Late October to early March is arguably the best window for visiting Oaxaca if you’re seeking dry weather, lively cultural events, and manageable temperatures. However, if you prefer a quieter experience with greener scenery, the early summer months (before peak rains) can also be low.
Where to stay in Oaxaca
1. Luxury – Grand Fiesta Americana Oaxaca
2. Mid-Range – Hotel Dainzu
3. Budget – Hotel Nacional
More to Explore
