Oaxaca de Juarez City Guide

Local food shines with mole negro, tlayudas, memelas, quesillo, and chapulines. International options are also strong. Vegan and vegetarian choices are growing. Late-night street food is common.

Nightlife mixes traditional mezcalerías, live music, bars, and clubs. The vibe is relaxed and social.

Strong coffee culture with many specialty shops and local roasters. Coffee tours available nearby.

Tipping is normal. 10-15% at restaurants, some tip hotel staff and tour guides, but taxi tips aren’t common unless extra help is given.

Buy SIM cards at Telcel, AT&T, or Movistar stores in malls or downtown. Telcel covers best. Bring valid ID or passport for registration.

Historic center is mostly clean; some outer areas less so. Waste pickup is regular but recycling is limited.

Limited 24/7 services. Some pharmacies and convenience stores (OXXO) stay open late or all night. Late-night food mostly street stalls.

Large supermarkets like Chedraui and Soriana carry international goods. Local markets such as Mercado Benito Juárez offer fresh produce and local foods. Supermarkets open 7 AM to 10 PM, including Sundays; smaller shops may close on Sundays. Bargaining is normal in markets for crafts.

Cards work in bigger hotels, restaurants, and supermarkets. Smaller shops and markets usually need cash.

ATMs from BBVA, Banamex, and Scotiabank are common. Use machines inside banks or safe places. Expect fees of 25-40 MXN per withdrawal.

Oaxaca International School offers bilingual education. Local schools teach mostly in Spanish. Enrollment usually in spring for fall semester. Some programs have waitlists.

A growing nomad community with meetups and social media groups. Many cafes are nomad friendly and co-living spaces are emerging.

Parks like Parque Llano and Jardín Conzatti offer shady spots and walking paths. The Ethnobotanical Garden adds unique greenery.

Popular routes include Parque Llano and historic center streets. Running groups exist and the area is generally safe.

Gyms range from basic to specialized, with some 24/7 options.

Tennis courts are at some clubs and hotels. Equipment rentals may be possible.

Padel courts exist but are rare and mostly at private clubs.

Several studios offer drop-in classes and some have English-speaking teachers.

Dojo options include Taekwondo, Karate, and boxing. BJJ and Muay Thai are growing but less common.

No ski resorts nearby.

Water sports are available on the coast.

Surfing is on the coast, not near the city.

Diving is on the coast, not in the city.

Public hospitals include Hospital Civil and Hospital General. Private clinics like Hospital San Lucas often have English-speaking staff. Pharmacies are common and well stocked. Emergency number is 911.

Tap water isn’t safe to drink, so buy bottled or filtered water.

Several playgrounds and kid-friendly cafes exist. Attractions include Ethnobotanical Garden and Monte Albán. Baby supplies are easy to find.

Considered LGBTQ+ friendly with annual pride events and welcoming spots. Legal protections exist for LGBTQ+ people.

Pet-friendly with accommodations and vets available. Green spaces like Parque Llano are good for dogs. Limited pet parks.