How to move like a local in Oaxaca city
- Mayko Michel
- 13 nov 2024
- 4 Min. de lectura
Moving like a local in Oaxaca can be a fun and immersive experience! Here's a guide to help you navigate the city and find great places to buy food.

Public Transportation in Oaxaca
Buses: Oaxaca has an extensive, affordable, and efficient bus network. Buses cost around M$10 (US$0.40) and cover most city areas. You can hail a bus from almost any corner.
Colectivos: These are shared taxis that run along fixed routes. They are cheaper than regular taxis and a great way to get around the city. Look for the maroon-and-white sedans with their destination displayed on the windshield.
Taxis: Taxis are plentiful and relatively cheap. Make sure to agree on the fare before getting in, as taxis in Oaxaca are not metered.
Mototaxis (Tuk-Tuks): These are more common in the outskirts of the city and are a fun way to get around. They are not allowed in the city center.
Places to Buy Food
Mercado Benito Juárez: This market is perfect for shopping and sampling traditional Oaxacan foods. You'll find everything from fresh produce to traditional Oaxacan garments and handicrafts.
Mercado 20 de Noviembre: Known for its vast selection of Oaxacan cuisine, this market is a must-visit. Try local favorites like mole, tlayudas, and freshly grilled meats.
Mercado Central de Abastos: The largest market in Oaxaca, offering a wide variety of fresh produce, meats, and other food items.
Mercado Tlacolula: Held on Sundays, this open-air market is one of the largest in Mexico and offers a great variety of food, crafts, and more.
La Casa de las Artesanías de Oaxaca: While primarily known for artisan goods, this market also offers a selection of local foods and drinks.
Tips for Moving Like a Local
Learn Basic Spanish Phrases: Knowing some basic Spanish will help you navigate the city and interact with locals.
Use Local Apps: Apps like Didi for ride-hailing and Google Maps for navigation can be very helpful.
Be Open to Trying New Things: Embrace the local culture and cuisine. Don't be afraid to try new foods and participate in local activities.
By using public transportation and exploring local markets, you'll get a true taste of Oaxaca and move around like a local in no time! 🌟
Would you like more information on any specific aspect of living in Oaxaca?

Finding cheap places to buy in Oaxaca City can be an exciting adventure! Here are some tips to help you discover the best deals:
1. Visit Local Markets
Mercado Benito Juárez: This market is perfect for shopping and sampling traditional Oaxacan foods. You'll find everything from fresh produce to traditional Oaxacan garments and handicrafts.
Mercado 20 de Noviembre: Known for its vast selection of Oaxacan cuisine, this market is a must-visit. Try local favorites like mole, tlayudas, and freshly grilled meats.
Mercado Central de Abastos: The largest market in Oaxaca, offering a wide variety of fresh produce, meats, and other food items.
Mercado Tlacolula: Held on Sundays, this open-air market is one of the largest in Mexico and offers a great variety of food, crafts, and more.
2. Explore Neighborhood Shops
Local tiendas (shops): Wander through the streets of Oaxaca and explore small, local shops. These often offer unique items at lower prices compared to tourist-oriented stores.
Mercado de Artesanías: This market is great for finding handmade crafts and souvenirs at reasonable prices.
3. Use Online Resources
Local Facebook Groups: Join local Oaxaca Facebook groups where residents often post about sales, discounts, and good deals.
Apps and Websites: Use apps like OLX or MercadoLibre to find second-hand items at affordable prices.
4. Ask for Recommendations
Talk to Locals: Don't hesitate to ask locals for recommendations on where to find the best deals. They can provide valuable insights and point you in the right direction.
Use Social Media: Post on social media platforms asking for recommendations from people who live in or have visited Oaxaca.
5. Be Open to Bargaining
Haggling is Common: In many markets and shops, bargaining is expected. Don't be afraid to negotiate the price to get the best deal.
By following these tips, you'll be able to find great bargains and enjoy the shopping experience in Oaxaca City. Happy hunting!
Oaxaca City has a well-developed public transportation system that makes it easy to get around. Here are some key bus routes and tips for navigating the city:
Main Bus Routes
Juárez Line: This bus route runs east-west through the city, passing by the Zócalo (main square) and heading towards the 1st-class bus station. It's a convenient route for getting to the historic downtown area.
Tinoco y Palacios Line: This route runs north-south, three blocks west of the Zócalo, and is useful for reaching areas west of the main square.
CityBus System: The CityBus operates multiple routes, including one that cuts through the historic center on Avenida de la Independencia and heads east to the 1st-class bus station. This system is modern and efficient. And goes from the North side to the South. The service is like buses in the USA. Drives don't give change. You pay $8 pesos.
Colectivos: These shared taxis run along fixed routes and are cheaper than regular taxis. Look for the maroon-and-white sedans that display their destination on the windshield.
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