Cathryn y Albert
Cathryn y Albert
Things to Do
We’ve listed some of our favorite spots below, but if you’re looking for even more ideas—food, shopping, activities, day trips—our amazing wedding planner put together a full Oaxaca guide:
👉 Download the full Oaxaca Recommendations PDF It’s packed with local favorites and great picks for exploring beyond the main tourist spots!
In Centro
Los Danzantes
Eat at one of Cat & Albert's favorite restaurants in the city, also backed by a 2024 Michelin Star!
Cat's go to order:
👉 Appetizer: Hoja Santa
👉 Main: Fideo
Sabina Sabe
A great spot for cocktails and food, Sabina Sabe is known for its mezcal-based cocktails. The atmosphere is lively but relaxed, making it a good place to grab a drink and a bite.
It's also located in the Centro not very far from the venues.
Shopping
Oaxaca is known for its incredible artisan crafts, textiles, and ceramics. Strolling through local markets and boutiques is a great way to find unique souvenirs while supporting the locals.
Simply strolling the streets of Centro, you'll find many shops that sell local goods, but if you want our recommendations on where to shop, you could spend hours in these Oaxacan markets:
Mercado Benito Juárez – A classic market for everything from woven baskets to mole pastes.
Mercado 20 de Noviembre – Perfect for food gifts like chocolate and Oaxacan coffee or for tasting Oaxacan dishes.
Artesanal Market (Mercado de Artesanías) – A great place for handmade textiles, embroidered clothing, and alebrijes (colorful wooden carvings).
Cash is recommended.
Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzmán
This historic 16th-century church is one of Oaxaca’s most well-known landmarks and museums. The interior is covered in intricate gold detailing, and the adjoining Jardín Etnobotánico showcases plants native to Oaxaca. The area around Santo Domingo is great for walking, with plenty of cafes, shops, and street vendors nearby.
Day Trips
If you have extra time, there are some amazing places just outside the city worth visiting. If you need recommendations, check out the following:
Zona Arqueológica de Monte Albán
A must-visit archaeological site, Monte Albán is an ancient Zapotec city with incredible ruins and panoramic views of the Oaxaca Valley. It’s an easy half-day trip, and you can explore on your own or with a guide to learn more about its history.
Hierve el Agua
Famous for its petrified waterfalls and natural pools, Hierve el Agua is a stunning spot for a short hike and a refreshing swim. The best way to visit is by rental car or guided tour.
Teotitlán del Valle & Mezcal Distilleries
Teotitlán del Valle is a Zapotec weaving village famous for its handwoven wool rugs dyed with natural pigments. Many family-run workshops offer demonstrations, and you can buy beautiful textiles directly from the artisans. Nearby, you’ll find mezcal distilleries (palenques) where you can learn about traditional mezcal-making and enjoy tastings. It’s a great way to experience Oaxaca’s craftsmanship and culture in one trip.
Trip Extensions 🌎
If you’re extending your trip, here are some great destinations to visit after Oaxaca:
Puerto Escondido & Mazunte – Beautiful beach towns on the Oaxacan coast, perfect for surfing, relaxing, and seafood. Black sand beaches in Mazunte are incredible. (~45 min flight or 2.5 hour drive)
San José del Pacífico – A peaceful mountain town known for its cloud forests, hiking, and traditional temazcal steam baths. (~3.5-hour drive or bus)
Mexico City – A world-class city with incredible food, museums, and history. (~1-hour flight)
P.S. A note about Holy Week (Semana Santa)
Our wedding takes place during Semana Santa, one of the most festive (and busiest!) times of year in Mexico. Expect lively streets, parades, and big crowds—especially leading up to Easter. If you're thinking about extending your trip, consider staying on after Holy Week ends (the Monday following Easter). The city will be a bit quieter and even more enjoyable to explore at a slower pace.