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Fully updated April 2026. Originally published October 2023.

Oaxaca had long been on my list of places to visit in Mexico. I finally had the chance to spend 8 days exploring the city. From the arts, coffee shops, unique stays, and memorable dining, here’s my guide to the best things to do in Oaxaca.

I came to Oaxaca to lead a 6-day El Camino Travel group trip with 12 women. El Camino’s ability to find the best local things to do, connect with artisans, and give an incredible travel experience made our trip to Oaxaca amazing (and completely unrepeatable).

I came in a night early before the group trip and spent two days exploring the city on my own. The El Camino portion of the trip also offered plenty of free time to explore, so I had the chance to cover a lot of ground. This guide covers all the wonderful things I discovered while there.

rooftop view over Oaxaca with mountains in the background
Oaxaca At Night

Having been all over Mexico before places like Sayulita, Mexico City, and Merida, I personally found Oaxaca to be one of the easiest places to travel in. It’s a rather compact city that is easy to explore on foot (or a short taxi ride), so you could explore all of it in just a few days.

So read on to find the best things to do while visiting Oaxaca!

Short on Time? Here Are My Top Picks for the Best Hotels and Things to Do in Oaxaca:

For a first visit, I recommend staying in the Centro Histórico so you can easily walk to everything.

Hotels

  1. Grana B&B ($$ / Where I Stayed), for a chic boutique B&B stay
  2. Otro Hotel ($$$), for the best luxury boutique hotel
  3. Hotel Escondido ($$), for the best design hotel in the historic center
  4. Casa Antonieta ($$), for the best boutique hotel
  5. El Callejón Hotel Boutique ($$), for the best retreat boutique hotel

Airbnbs

  1. 1 Bedroom Remodeled Apartmentfor a quiet, updated stay near the historic center and markets
  2. 2 Bedroom Oaxacan Designed Loftfor a beautifully designed loft close to the Zócalo
  3. 2 Bedroom Updated Condofor the best located stay in the historic center
  4. 1 Bedroom Apartment with Poolfor a peaceful stay in the historic center

Things to Do

  1. Oaxaca Walking Historic Center and Street Food TourThis guided tour takes you through the historic center, markets, and street food stands. Doing a tour like this early on is a great way to get oriented to the city.
  2. Oaxacan Cooking Class with Market VisitThis half-day cooking class begins with a market visit to shop for ingredients, then continues with the preparation of classic Oaxacan dishes.
  3. Day Trip to Mitla, Hierve el Agua, Tule, Textile, and a Mezcal DistilleryThis full-day tour is a great way to see some of the highlights outside of Oaxaca.
  4. Hierve el Agua Full-Day Guided TourSeeing the petrified waterfalls and natural infinity pools of Hierve el Agua is a must if you have the time. This full-day guided tour is the best option if you don’t want to drive yourself.

Travel Tips

  1. Get Cell Data Before You ArriveWe never travel abroad without cell data. We use Holafly unlimited data eSIMs for all international travel and recommend installing your eSIM before arrival so maps, ride-sharing, and directions work the moment you land. Pre-Purchase your Holafly eSIM here.
  2. Book Your Airport Transfer in Advance — For a stress-free arrival, I recommend booking your airport transfer ahead of time with Welcome Pickups. They’re reliable, meet you at arrivals, and take the guesswork out of getting into the city.
  3. Rent a Car for Day TripsYou don’t need a car in the city, but one is useful if you want to explore Hierve el Agua, Mitla, or the surrounding villages on your own. I use Discover Cars for rental cars in Mexico, choose full coverage insurance, and opt for trusted companies like Alamo, Hertz, or Sixt. See my guide to renting a car in Mexico for everything you need to know. Book your car with Discover Cars here.

Helpful Guides to Plan Your Trip

For more on Oaxaca, see my guide to the best restaurants in Oaxaca, for my recommendations for everything from street food to destination dining. My guide to the best hotels in Oaxaca covers my favorite stays in the city. If you’re looking to pair Oaxaca with other stops in Mexico, see my guides to Mexico City, Guadalajara, and San Miguel de Allende.

The Best Things to Do in Oaxaca, Mexico


What to Know About Visiting Oaxaca, Mexico

Oaxaca (pronounced “wa-HA-ka”) is UNESCO World Heritage-listed and located in the Sierra Madre del Sur mountains. The climate is dry for most of the year. Here’s what to know before you go.

View of downtown Oaxaca city center with colorful buildings and mountains in the background
Strolling the Historic Center

How to Get to Oaxaca

You can get to Oaxaca, Mexico, by flying into Oaxaca’s Xoxocotlán International Airport (OAX) from major Mexican cities like Mexico City, Cancún, or Guadalajara. There are direct flights from the US from airports like Dallas Ft. Worth and Los Angeles.

Once you arrive in Oaxaca, it’s best to take a taxi or pre-booking a private transfer with Welcome Pickups into the city center (around 25 minutes.). On arrival, once you clear customs, there is a taxi stand inside the airport where you prepay. There are two options: collectivo and private. Collectivo means a group transfer, it’s cheaper but you will have multiple stops (around 140 pesos).

What is the Best Time of Year to Visit Oaxaca?

The dry season (late October through early May) is the best time to visit Oaxaca. The weather is pleasant, with warm days and cool nights, and perfect for exploring.

Festivals Note: Oaxaca can get quite crowded during major festivals like Di de los Muertos (late Octover to early November) and Semana Santa (Holy Week, typically in March or April). I recommend booking well in advance if you’d like to experience either of these.

Colorful street scene in Oaxaca with traditional architecture and pedestrians
Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzmán

How Do I Get Around Oaxaca?

Oaxaca’s city center is compact and easy to explore on foot. Many of the city’s top attractions, shops, and restaurants are within walking distance of each other.

Travel Tip: I’d wear really good, closed-toe shoes if you plan to go into the markets.

For longer distances, taxis are the best way to get around Oaxaca. You can find taxis at designated stands or hail them on the street. I always agree on the fare before starting the ride or make sure the driver uses the meter. Note: You will need cash for almost all taxis. DiDi (Mexico’s main ride-share app) also works well in Oaxaca.

Do I Need a Rental Car in Oaxaca?

For visiting the city itself, you do not need a rental car. The centro is walkable, and taxis or DiDi handle everything else. A rental car becomes handy if you plan to do day trips to nearby sites like Hierve el Agua, Monte Albán, or Mitla without a hired guide or transfer. You could set aside a few days of your trip with a car if you wanted to explore more independently.

Rental Car Tip: I use Discover Cars for my rental cars in Mexico. Choose full coverage insurance as required in Mexico, and opt for trusted companies like Alamo, Hertz, or Sixt. Renting a car and driving in Mexico is quite easy (Read my guide to renting a car in Mexico for everything you need to know). Book your car with Discover Cars here.

The Best Things to Do in Oaxaca, Mexico A Complete Guide
Centro Storico

Is Oaxaca Safe?

Oaxaca is considered one of the safest destinations in Mexico. I had several afternoons and evenings out solo and felt comfortable. Should you practice common sense when traveling? Absolutely. When traveling anywhere in the world, consider where you go, when, and whether it’s best to be solo or with a group.

How Many Days Do You Need in Oaxaca?

I recommend at least four to five days to fully explore the city, markets, restaurants and take a day trip or two. A full week would give you more space for visiting Monte Albán, Hierve el Agua, and some of the artisan villages.

Currency and Language

The local currency is Mexican pesos. You can withdraw cash on arrival at a local ATM (from a preferred bank). You will need cash for taxis, smaller stores, food stalls, and markets. Credit cards are widely accepted at larger establishments like restaurants and hotels.

The primary language is Spanish. I always recommend having a handful of everyday phrases ready to go.

Is it Safe to Drink the Tap Water in Oaxaca?

No. Stick to bottled water and reliable sources only.


Where to Stay in Oaxaca, Mexico

Oaxaca has a vibrant selection of boutique hotels, design-worthy vacation rentals, and haciendas. Check out the full list of my favorite hotels in Oaxaca for more.

Where I Stayed

  1. Grana B&B ($$ / Where I Stayed) — While there are many incredible hotels to choose from, I went with the Grana B&B for my one solo night in Oaxaca before joining the group trip. The central location, chic design, and included breakfast were a few reasons I chose this hotel. The central courtyard and complimentary rooftop yoga classes are wonderful additions to the stay. The rates are among the best for other design hotels in Oaxaca (they even have a Michelin Key), making it one of the more reasonably priced hotels in the city.

Other Hotels in Oaxaca to Consider

I always have a few favorites on my radar. Here are the boutique hotels on my list for next time.

  1. Otro Hotel ($$$), for the best overall hotel
  2. Hotel Escondido ($$), for the best luxury hotel
  3. Pug Seal ($$), for the best design hotel
  4. Casa Antonieta ($$), for the best romantic stay
  5. El Callejón Hotel Boutique ($$), for the best modern boutique hotel
  6. Hotel Sin Nombre ($$), for the best adults-only boutique hotel
  7. Casa Zina ($), for the best design-for-dollar boutique stay

Oaxaca Airbnbs I’d Recommend

If you prefer a vacation rental, Oaxaca has some beautiful options. Here are a few of my favorites.

  1. 1 Bedroom Remodeled Apartmentfor a quiet, updated stay near the historic center and markets
  2. 2 Bedroom Oaxacan Designed Loftfor a beautifully designed loft close to the Zócalo
  3. 2 Bedroom Updated Condofor the best located stay in the historic center
  4. 1 Bedroom Apartment with Poolfor a peaceful stay in the historic center

The Best Things to Do in Oaxaca

Explore the Downtown

On arrival, one of the best things to do in Oaxaca is to walk downtown into the Centro Historico. Many small plazas and the Zócalo (Plaza de la Constitución) are bustling with city life. You really can’t go wrong with a leisurely stroll starting from Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzmán down into Centro.

The temple is definitely worth a visit. It was completed in 1666 and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The top floors also offer amazing views of the Jardín Etnobotánico de Oaxaca and the mountains. The temple is also home to the Museum of Cultures of Oaxaca, Santo Domingo. and the Jardín Etnobotánico de Oaxaca, but only on a guided visit, which you’ll want to book in advance.

Travel Tip: The Jardín Etnobotánico de Oaxaca is only accessible via guided tours. So be sure to book in advance if you’d like to visit.

After the temple, I’d continue down into Centro via Andador Macedonio Alcalá. It’s a pedestrian street lined with shops, galleries, and cafes. One of my favorite stores on this street is Huizache “Pueblos Originarios de Oaxaca”, which sells really beautiful clay crafts and cultural clothing.

The Best Things to Do in Oaxaca, Mexico: A Complete Guide
Plaza de La Constitución

As you get to the end, finish at Zócalo de la Ciudad de Oaxaca (Plaza de La Constitución) and Catedral Metropolitana de Oaxaca Nuestra Señora de la Asunción. The square is always bustling with families and kids playing, cafes spilling into the street, and street performers. This is also where most of the city’s festivals are held.

Wander the Colorful Jalatlaco Neighborhood

The Best Things to Do in Oaxaca, Mexico: A Complete Guide
Jalatlaco

The small enclave of Jalatlaco was one of my favorite neighborhoods in Oaxaca for artists and local shops. The cobbled streets are narrow and lined with murals, colorful buildings, small cafés, and local mezcalerías. The whole area has a quiet, laidback energy that feels different from the busier Centro. I love grabbing a coffee at Once In Oaxaca – Art & Specialty Coffee and Café Blasón and just walking around here with no real agenda.

You’ll pass by Templo de San Matías Jalatlaco, the sort of center of the neighborhood as well, and it’s worth popping into. If you need a bite to eat, there are also some great spots here, like ONNNO, Mezcal y Mole Oaxaca, and Goji Oaxaca, if you need a bite to eat.

Visit One of the Many Museums in Oaxaca

Oaxaca is packed with culture and history, with several different museums on offer. My favorite was the Museum of Cultures of Oaxaca, Santo Domingo (open 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Tuesday through Friday), housing archaeological artifacts, an ancient library, and cloisters. I’d block out 2 hours to see this one as there is a lot to take in.

The Best Things to Do in Oaxaca, Mexico: A Complete Guide
Museo Textil

Another favorite was the free Museo Textil de Oaxaca (open daily from 10 or 11 a.m. until 6 or 8 p.m.), which houses textiles from the region. Just next door is Muss Café, which is one of my favorite coffee shops, so it’s nice to combine the two.

The Museo De La Filatelia (open daily from 10:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.) is another interesting stop. The museum features art focused on stamps, along with a few surrealist art exhibits and a beautiful patio.

Try Ancestral Hot Chocolate at Rito Chocolatería

Oaxaca is known for its artisanal hot chocolate that comes from hundreds of generations. Often referred to as ancestral hot chocolate, Rito Chocolatería is the spot to try it. You can also pop in and buy chocolates to bring home.

Taste Mezcal

The Best Things to Do in Oaxaca, Mexico: A Complete Guide
Mezcal Cocktails at Selva

You’re in the mezcal capital of Mexico, so what better place to try mezcal? While you can certainly visit a mezcal distillery outside the city, one way to enjoy it is by stopping at one of the many mezcal bars in Oaxaca. My three choices are Selva, Sabina Sabe, and Mezcalería In Situ. For those looking to do a sit-down tasting, La Mezcaloteca was recommended (reservations required).

Visit a Mezcal Distillery

For the full mezcal experience, visiting a distillery in the countryside outside of the city is an amazing way to learn how it’s made. Several of the mezcal producers offer tours where you can see how mezcal is made, from roasting the agave in underground pits to distilling it in clay or copper pots.

Tasting mezcal in the city is one thing, but visiting a distillery in the surrounding countryside is a different experience entirely. Several small producers in the valleys outside Oaxaca offer tours where you can see the full process, from roasting agave in underground pits to distilling in clay or copper pots. A half-day trip is easy to arrange, and most tours include tastings of varieties you won’t find in bars. This 6-hour tour is a great way to experience the agave fields, a distillery, and countryside towns outside Oaxaca.

Take a Cooking Class

The Best Things to Do in Oaxaca, Mexico: A Complete Guide
Local Food in Oaxaca

Oaxacan food is one of my favorites in all of Mexico. Taking a cooking class is a great way to experience and learn about it. If it interests you, this half-day class is one of the highest-rated options. The class starts with a market visit and ends with a proper meal. Adding to the fun, there’s no set menu. The group can decide what traditional dishes to make from scratch.

Shop Local

There is no end in sight when it comes to shopping. I went to over a dozen stores during my time exploring Oaxaca. I found some of the “mercados” to feel not super authentic, so I ended up returning to a few stores to purchase more. My favorite find of the trip was LIA Café, a coffee shop and curated store. I went in 4 separate times because new items kept arriving each time (they circulate antique and vintage pieces).

Another favorite for ceramics was Cooperativa 1050º. So many goodies here, and don’t forget the second floor. For custom hats, do stop into Sombreros Alberly Premium. These hats are amazing. Another store is Marchanta, which has a great collection of Mexican designers, though it’s quite expensive in price.

A few more shops I found:

Peruse and Eat in the Markets

Oaxaca City has several markets to peruse through, many of which house small restaurants and food carts. Mercado Benito Juárez is the biggest and is well worth a visit. Afterward, you’re right next to Mercado 20 de Noviembre, another fresh food market with stalls of local street food. If you’re feeling adventurous, try the toasted grasshoppers (chapulines). They’re an Oaxacan staple and usually seasoned with chile and lime.

Another market to consider visiting, which is close by as well, is Mercado de Artesanías. The market is focused on artisan crafts, gifts, and souvenirs.

Take a Walking Tour

The Best Things to Do in Oaxaca, Mexico: A Complete Guide
Food Tour

A walking tour is one of the best ways to orient yourself in Oaxaca, especially on your first day or two. This 3-hour private historic city and street food tour is one of the best options for getting a sense of all the historic center has to offer. Alternatively, several companies offer free daily walking tours from the Zócalo, covering the historic center, local history, and Zapotec heritage. The tours are tip-based and run about two hours.

Explore the Xochimilco Neighborhood

The Best Things to Do in Oaxaca, Mexico: A Complete Guide
Xochimilco

Most visitors spend their time in Centro Histórico and Jalatlaco, but I think the Xochimilco neighborhood is worth a walk if you have the time. I didn’t spend as much time here as I would have liked, but the blocks I did walk through were beautiful and refreshingly uncrowded. If you’ve already explored Jalatlaco and want to keep going, Xochimilco is a natural next stop.

The neighborhood is colorful, and the pace here is slower and more local. Xochimilco doesn’t have as many shops or cafes, but the street food here is great, and the neighborhood gives you a different feel for how people actually live in Oaxaca.

Visit Hierve el Agua

Taking a day trip to Hierve el Agua to see the petrified waterfalls and spring pools was one of my favorite things I did during my time in Oaxaca. It’s about a 1.5-hour drive from the city, so the best way to visit is either to rent your own car or join a tour. I’d highly suggest getting out as early as possible. They cap visitors at 200 people, and they close it once it fills up.

You can also dip in the springs and go hiking in that area. A few recommended guided Hierve el Agua tours from Oaxaca are this full-day tour or this full-day tour.

Visit Monte Albán

The Best Things to Do in Oaxaca, Mexico: A Complete Guide
Monte Albán

Monte Albán is the ancient Zapotec capital perched on a mountaintop about 30 minutes from Oaxaca City, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The ruins are expansive, and the views from the top stretch across the entire valley. I’d recommend going early in the morning before the midday heat and the crowds. You can drive, take a collectivo, or book a guided tour. This half-day tour is a great option. I’d plan to spend at least 2–3 hours to fully explore the site.

Day Trip to Mitla

The Best Things to Do in Oaxaca, Mexico: A Complete Guide
Mitla

Mitla is another important archaeological site about 45 minutes east of Oaxaca City. The Zapotec stone mosaics here are incredibly detailed, and the site is smaller and easier to navigate than Monte Albán. Many visitors and tour groups pair Mitla with a stop at Hierve el Agua, since they’re on the same route. Along the way, you can also see the famous El Tule tree, one of the widest trees in the world. Most tours also include a quick stop here for a quick photo and a walk around the churchyard where it stands.

Visit the Artisan Villages

There are a number of small artisan villages located in the valleys outside Oaxaca. Each is known for a different craft. The two main villages are Teotitlán del Valle, famous for hand-woven rugs dyed with natural pigments such as cochineal and indigo, and San Bartolo Coyotepec, known for the iconic black clay pottery, called barro negro. When you visit the villages, you’ll be able to visit artisans at work in their studios and buy products directly. A half-day is enough to visit one or two villages and drive through the beautiful valley.

Visit the El Tule Tree

As I previously mentioned, the Árbol del Tule is a popular stop, especially when combined with a day trip to Mitla or Hierve el Agua. I wanted to share a bit more detail about here. The tree is an ancient Montezuma cypress located in the small town of Santa María del Tule, about 30 minutes east of Oaxaca. It holds the Guinness World Record for the widest tree trunk on earth (30 feet in diameter). The tree actually sits in a churchyard, and there’s a small entrance fee to visit. The town itself is quite small, so it’s worth a quick stop if you’re already heading out that direction.


Where to Eat in Oaxaca

Oaxaca is home to incredible food. The city is one of the best culinary destinations in Mexico, with a strong cultural influence on its ingredients and cuisine. I’d recommend a mix of street food and fine dining experiences, as both are equally memorable. Do know that in high season, reservations are highly recommended. For even more options, check out my guide to the best restaurants in Oaxaca.

Levadura de Olla Restaurante

Levadura de Olla was one of my favorite meals in town. I came in solo for lunch. The tomato salad is a must, and any of their entrees are wonderful. One other unique drink to try here is the “tepache”, a fermented pineapple beer.

Casa Oaxaca el Restaurante

One of the better fine dining experiences in town. Casa Oaxaca has stunning views of the church, and if you can reserve a rooftop table, try to! I loved all of the food. The bean soup was a personal favorite.

Criollo

Chef Enrique Olvera, known for his Michelin-star cuisine, opened Criollo. On the World’s 50 Best Restaurant lists, the prix-fixe menu pays homage to Oaxacan cuisine. The setting is stunning. Must reserve in advance.

Los Danzantes

courtyard dining at Los Danzantes restaurant in Oaxaca
Los Danzantes

I’m 50/50 on what I ate here, but I want to include it nonetheless, as many people love Los Danzantes. I liked most of my meal, but I think I ordered the wrong dishes here, as some of the other mole dishes looked much better. The dining is more elevated, and the setting is tucked away off the street. I walked in without a reservation, but I think having one would have changed the experience for me.

Sabina Sabe

mezcal cocktails and small plates at Sabina Sabe in Oaxaca
Pork Tacos at Sabina Sabe

Sabina Sabe is such a gem. It’s a mezcal bar with tons of small plates. Also listed on North America’s Best Bars. I came in for a late lunch. The pork tacos here are a must.

Amá Terraza

rooftop dining and natural wine at Amá Terraza in Oaxaca
Ama Terraza

Set above Casa Antonieta, Amá Terraza is a lovely rooftop bar for small plates and natural wine. You could likely walk in, and lunch is also popular here.

Selva Oaxaca Cocktail Bar

On North America’s 50 Best Bars list, I’d recommend popping into Selva at least once for a cocktail. Their innovative menu is so fun, and the staff will help you choose the best one for you. I did the house cocktail, which was more savory than sweet!

Tacos de Comal Plaza del Carmen

A total classic street food cart in town. Definitely come by for a late breakfast or lunch.

Pan Con Madre

There are many pastry shops in Oaxaca, but Pan Con Madre was my favorite for both pastries and coffee. I ended up taking some for takeaway because I couldn’t decide.

Boulenc

One of the more popular bakeries and restaurants in town, I popped in twice while in Oaxaca for a bite. On my final morning, I had a sit-down breakfast. The food was delicious.

Other Restaurants on My List

  • Origenfor refined Oaxacan tasting menus
  • Almúa farm-to-table spot in Etla Valley (short drive from the city)
  • La Cocina de Humo, for traditional Oaxacan food served on handmade clay, reserve in advance
  • El Lechoncito de Oro, for suckling pig tacos with chicharrón and a spicy green salsa, great for a quick bite
  • Copal, for a creative cocktail menu and beautiful courtyard
  • Labo Fermento, for a Japanese-inspired restaurant and specialty shop, a nice change of pace

My Favorite Coffee Shops in Oaxaca


Frequently Asked Questions About Oaxaca

The Best Things to Do in Oaxaca, Mexico A Complete Guide
Centro

What is Oaxaca best known for?

Oaxaca is known for its food, mezcal, indigenous cultures, artisan textiles, and archaeological sites like Monte Albán and Mitla. The state has one of the most diverse cultural identities in Mexico, with 16 indigenous groups and cooking traditions that go back centuries. I’d say the food alone is reason enough to visit.

Is Oaxaca worth visiting?

Absolutely. The food scene rivals any destination I’ve been to in Mexico, the artisan culture is amazing, and the city itself is walkable, colorful, and full of energy.

How do you get to Oaxaca from Mexico City?

A direct,1-hour flight is the easiest way to get to Oaxaca from Mexico City. Several airlines offer this route daily, so there are plenty of flight options. Taking a bus is another option. ADO is the most popular and the trip takes 6 to 7 hours. You can also rent a car and drive yourself, which takes about the same time.

The Best Things to Do in Oaxaca, Mexico A Complete Guide
Xochimilco

How do you pronounce Oaxaca?

Oaxaca is pronounced, “wa-HA-ka.” It’s easy to pick up, once you hear it a few times.

What food is Oaxaca known for?

Oaxaca is famous for its mole (the state has seven regional varieties), tlayudas (large crispy tortillas loaded with toppings), chapulines (toasted grasshoppers, surprisingly good), tamales wrapped in banana leaves, and Oaxacan hot chocolate. Mezcal is everywhere, and tasting it at a local mezcalería or distillery is one of the best experiences in the city. I covered my favorite spots in my Oaxaca restaurant guide.

The Best Things to Do in Oaxaca, Mexico A Complete Guide
Centro

What is the best neighborhood to stay in Oaxaca?

For a first-time visit, I think Centro Histórico is the best place to base yourself. From there, everything you want will be within walking distance. Everything you want is within walking distance: the markets, the restaurants, the mezcalerías, and the best coffee shops. I stayed at Grana B&B in the Centro and loved being able to walk to everything.

Do you need to speak Spanish to visit Oaxaca?

You don’t need to speak Spanish to visit Oaxaca, but knowing a few basic phrases goes a long way. I will say, Oaxaca is less English-friendly than Mexico City or the popular beach towns. I always recommend learning greetings, how to order food, and how to ask for the check. The locals appreciate the effort, and I’ve always found it makes the experience more personal.


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PS — Are You Booking a Trip Soon? Use My Booking Checklist!

These are the sites I use most to book my own trips. Using the links below is a great way to support Bon Traveler’s travel journalism at no extra cost to you. If you need help organizing your itinerary, get my free travel itinerary template here.

1. Book Your Accommodations

I use Booking.com for hotels and Airbnb for vacation rentals. They have the biggest inventory and consistently offer the best rates.

2. Book Your Rental Car

Self-driving is the best way to explore most destinations. I use Discover Cars for our rental cars, select full coverage insurance, and opt for a reputable company like Alamo, Hertz, or Sixt.

3. Book Your Tours & Experiences

I use Viator, Airbnb, and Get Your Guide to find the best tours and experiences. They are my favorite tour search engines. I always check all three as their inventory varies depending on the destination.

4. Book Your Private Transfers

For easy, reliable private transfers, I use Welcome Pickups. It’s my go-to for arranging a driver in advance — whether it’s an airport pickup, a hotel-to-hotel transfer, or a day trip. The experience is seamless, with English-speaking drivers and upfront pricing, so you can travel stress-free at every stage of your trip.

5. Get Cell Data for Your Trip

I use Holafly for international cell data. Their unlimited data eSIMs are easy to install, activate instantly on arrival, and let you skip local SIM cards and expensive roaming fees.

6. Don’t Forget Travel Insurance

I never leave the country without travel insurance. It provides comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong (ie. illness, injury, theft, or cancellations).

My favorite companies that offer the best coverage and rates are:


Xx,
Jessica

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