I recently got back from a four-day trip to Oaxaca de Juárez, otherwise known as Oaxaca City, the capital of the Mexican state of Oaxaca. I went for a friends wedding (side note—if you’re ever invited to a wedding in Oaxaca, prepare to be blown away! The customs and traditions for the celebrations are absolutely incredible). It was my first time visiting the vibrant cultural and culinary capital, and I was truly captivated by the magical city.
I stayed at the boutique Hotel Los Amantes in the historic center (the buzzy scene and the breakfast here is amazing FYI!), which was conveniently located close to the colorful colonial buildings and the famous Templo de Santo Domingo, a cathedral admired for its striking Baroque architecture, and the meeting place for many locals.
Between wedding festivities I spent most of my days walking the beautiful colorful and cobblestone streets of the city, indulging in Mexican street food and Oaxacan mezcal, checking out the coolest coffee spots and bustling markets, and more than anything, I did what I do best—shopped! Oaxaca city is an absolute shopping paradise (and I get very impassioned every time I talk about the shopping there). Sure, you get the average dose of touristy merch, but I found the markets, as well as many boutiques to be of great quality with beautiful handmade goods. From the traditional Mexican embroidered dresses, tunics, and blouses, to the colorful beaded jewelry, the handwoven Zapotec textiles, the colorful woven bags, not to mention the rustic clay pottery (of which I bought a full set of bowls, cups, and water jugs), the city is bursting with unique and vibrant cultural and traditional delights.
If you’re headed to the historic city, below, I’m sharing my condensed packing list of essentials to take with you on your trip that are perfect for exploring the city, keeping you cool, and fitting in with the Oaxacan vibe. I’m also sharing some of my favorite spots for shopping in the stunning city. Keep scrolling and get inspired to add Oaxaca to your travel bucket list.
Linen and Cotton Dresses + Versatile Sneakers
Oaxaca’s average year round temperature is between 63°F to 72°F—and in summer it can reach the high 80’s which means dressing in lightweight and breathable layers is key. Natural cotton and linen airy fabrics are the way to go. I wore linen and cotton dresses which I styled with comfortable sneakers since I walked a ton throughout the city. (I particularly love my red low-profile SeaVees sneakers that are chic for day and night).
Colorful and Bold Accessories
Oaxaca is bold, vibrant, and colorful, and I leaned into that vibe with statement accessories. A bold beaded necklace (which you can find at so many of the markets around Oaxaca if you want to buy one there), a colorful headscarf, and statement earrings will elevate your basics in an instant.
Raffia Bag + Straw Hat
Oaxaca’s warm and laid back vibes mean you can forgo heavy leather accessories for easy raffia and straw bags and hats instead.
Tank Tops + Flowy Skirts
Flowy skirts are another great option to mix and match with tank tops and tees. I bought this white one from one of the markets in Oaxaca. Pair with chic beaded accessories to finish the look.
Comfortable Versatile Sandals
When I wasn’t in sneakers I was wearing comfy sandals in colors that pair well with everything—and are versatile enough for day and night. In fact, I didn’t bring heels on this trip (only wedges for the wedding).
Colorful Statement Pieces
If there’s anywhere to sport pops of color, it’s in Oaxaca! The city is vibrant and I brought a few colorful statement pieces to reflect that vibe.
Where to Shop:
- Lia: This cool boutique and café has an impressive selection of carefully curated ceramics, handmade artisanal products, clothing and accessories, while serving delicious coffee in a lovely atmosphere.
- Benito Juarez Market & 20 de Noviembre: The two markets are close to each other located two blocks south of the Zocalo. You’ll find literally everything from incredible local food products, to crafts and artisan goods.
- Mercado de Artesanias: One of the largest markets dedicated exclusively to quality Oaxacan crafts, clothing, and jewelry.
- Piedra de río: One of my favorite places to buy traditional pottery at decent prices. (I bought a whole set of bowls, mugs and a water jug there).
- Cooperativa 1050: Another gorgeous boutique that offers a curated selection of Oaxaca’s famous pottery in barro rojo (an earthy rust-colored clay) and barro negro (the iconic black version)—all handmade by artisans around Oaxaca.
- Marias Arte y Diseño: The perfect spot to pick up gifts, prints, drawings, home goods, and unique pieces by emerging Mexican artists and designers. I love the colorful atmosphere here. The whole row of stores beside this charming boutique is worth strolling into as well.
