Eight to 11 days is the most popular trip length for Mexico travelers interested in visiting both Mexico City and Oaxaca, especially when also including Puebla. If you’re not interested in Puebla, a week to nine days is enough for your Mexico City and Oaxaca trip. Read on for the best itineraries, including Mexico City and Oaxaca, and beyond.
## Unveiling the Magic of Mexico City and Oaxaca: A Journey Through Time and Culture
Planning a trip to Mexico and wondering how much time to dedicate to the vibrant cities of Mexico City and Oaxaca? You’re not alone! Many travelers grapple with this decision, wanting to experience the richness of these destinations without feeling rushed. The ideal duration depends on your travel style and interests, but here’s a guide to help you craft the perfect itinerary.
Generally, most travelers find that a combined trip of **7-9 days** allows for a satisfying exploration of both Mexico City and Oaxaca. This timeframe provides a good balance, enabling you to delve into the historical sites, cultural experiences, and culinary delights that each city offers. You’ll have enough time to wander through bustling markets, admire stunning architecture, and savor the authentic flavors of Mexican cuisine.
However, if you have **10 or more days** at your disposal, consider expanding your journey to include other captivating destinations. Mexico offers a diverse range of experiences, and with a bit more time, you can create an even more unforgettable adventure.
Popular extensions to a Mexico City and Oaxaca itinerary include venturing to the colorful city of Puebla, immersing yourself in the Mayan wonders of the Yucatán Peninsula, or exploring the historical charm of Cholula. Each of these destinations offers a unique perspective on Mexican culture and history.
### Recommended Itineraries for Mexico City & Oaxaca
Let’s explore some potential itineraries to help you visualize your trip:
#### Recommended Itinerary for 8 Days: A Day of the Dead Celebration
This eight-day itinerary is perfectly designed for those seeking an immersive cultural experience, particularly around the Day of the Dead celebrations.
**Day 1:** Your journey begins with your arrival in Mexico City. Settle in and embark on a guided walking tour to get acquainted with the city’s historical center and vibrant atmosphere. You’ll stay overnight in Mexico City, ready to delve deeper into its secrets.
**Day 2:** Immerse yourself in the unique experience of a Xochimilco boat ride. Navigate the ancient canals, enjoying the festive atmosphere and vibrant colors of this historical waterway. Return to Mexico City for the night.
**Day 3:** Travel back in time as you discover the awe-inspiring Aztec city of Teotihuacán. Explore the magnificent pyramids and learn about the fascinating history of this ancient civilization. Spend another night in Mexico City.
**Day 4:** Embark on a scenic drive to Oaxaca City, a city renowned for its vibrant culture and culinary traditions. Settle into your accommodation and begin exploring the charming streets of Oaxaca.
**Day 5:** Venture on a day trip to discover the natural wonders surrounding Oaxaca. Visit the remarkable Tree of Tule, marvel at the petrified waterfalls of Hierve el Agua, and explore the traditional weaving village of Teotitlán del Valle. Return to Oaxaca for the night.
**Day 6:** Immerse yourself in Oaxacan cuisine with a cooking class, learning to prepare traditional dishes using local ingredients. In the evening, experience the vibrant Comparsa de Jalatlaco, a traditional Day of the Dead procession.
**Day 7:** Delve deeper into the heart of Oaxaca with a comprehensive city tour, exploring its historical landmarks, vibrant markets, and cultural gems.
**Day 8:** Depart from Oaxaca, filled with unforgettable memories of your Day of the Dead adventure.
This festive itinerary offers an intimate look into one of Mexico’s biggest holidays, the Day of the Dead. Beginning your tour at the end of October in Mexico City, you’ll discover the history behind the tradition before exploring the canals of Xochimilco and the stone ruins of Teotihuacán. You’ll end your stay in Oaxaca, where you will celebrate like a local: joining in processions, visiting cemeteries, and marveling at elaborately decorated altars in honor of the deceased.
#### Extended Itineraries: Exploring Beyond Mexico City and Oaxaca
For those with more time, consider these extended itineraries that incorporate other fascinating destinations:
#### 1-Week Itinerary Including Puebla: A Culinary Adventure
This itinerary focuses on the incredible culinary scene of central Mexico, with a blend of historical and cultural experiences.
**Day 1:** Arrive in Mexico City and settle into your accommodation.
**Day 2:** Explore the magnificent Teotihuacán Archaeological Site and visit the Basilica of Guadalupe, an important religious site. Spend the night in Mexico City.
**Day 3:** Transfer to Puebla, a city known for its stunning architecture and delicious cuisine. Embark on a gastronomic walking tour, sampling local specialties and learning about the city’s culinary heritage.
**Day 4:** Transfer to Oaxaca and begin exploring its vibrant streets and cultural attractions.
**Day 5:** Embark on a day trip to the Tule Tree, Hierve el Agua, and Teotitlán del Valle, experiencing the natural beauty and cultural traditions of the Oaxaca region.
**Day 6:** Participate in an Oaxaca Valley cooking class, learning to prepare authentic Oaxacan dishes. In the afternoon, return to Mexico City.
**Day 7:** Depart from Mexico City, filled with culinary delights and cultural discoveries.
On this food-focused tour, you’ll discover authentic Mexican cuisine at marketplaces, family-run restaurants, street food stands, and Indigenous farms. The itinerary isn’t only about food, though: the schedule features visits to archaeological sites and other places of interest, including the pyramids of Teotihuacán and the colonial city of Puebla.
#### 9-Day Itinerary Including Cholula: Art, Archaeology, and Adventure
This itinerary provides a deeper exploration of the art, culture, and history surrounding Mexico City and Oaxaca, with a stop in the charming town of Cholula.
**Day 1:** Arrive in Mexico City and settle into your accommodation.
**Day 2:** Explore Mexico City with a city tour, visiting historical landmarks and museums. In the evening, experience the excitement of Lucha Libre (Mexican wrestling) and enjoy a Mezcal tasting.
**Day 3:** Visit the charming neighborhoods of Coyoacán and Xochimilco, immersing yourself in their unique atmosphere and traditions.
**Day 4:** Take a day trip to Teotihuacán before transferring to Cholula, a town known for its Great Pyramid and numerous churches.
**Day 5:** Explore the Tehuacán-Cuicuitlan Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, before transferring to Oaxaca.
**Day 6:** Visit the Monte Albán archaeological site, an ancient Zapotec capital, and enjoy a Mezcal tour, learning about the production and history of this traditional spirit.
**Day 7:** Explore Oaxaca with a comprehensive city tour, discovering its historical landmarks and cultural attractions.
**Day 8:** Enjoy a free day in Oaxaca, allowing you to explore at your own pace, visit local markets, or simply relax and soak in the city’s atmosphere.
**Day 9:** Depart from Oaxaca, filled with memories of your art, archaeology, and adventure-filled journey.
The regions in and around Mexico City are brimming with art, culture, and history of both the Indigenous and Spanish-colonial varieties. Over nine days, you’ll experience all of these highlights plus outdoor adventures as you travel around Mexico City and the state of Oaxaca and overnight in Cholula. Activities include art walks, nature hikes, city tours, and visits to the largest pre-Columbian archaeological sites in the country.
No matter which itinerary you choose, a trip to Mexico City and Oaxaca promises to be an unforgettable experience, filled with vibrant culture, delicious food, and stunning scenery.
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