In the ongoing debate over which Mexican destination delivers the best combination of culture, food, and atmosphere, one traveler is making a bold declaration: Oaxaca beats Mexico City.
A trip report from r/travel details five days in Oaxaca during December, followed by five beach days in Huatulco — a combination the traveler describes as ideal. But the real headline is their comparison to a later visit to Mexico City: "I much preferred it over a later visit to Mexico City."
For travelers planning Mexico trips and trying to decide between the two cities, this perspective offers valuable counterweight to the CDMX hype.
Why Oaxaca Wins
The traveler's assessment is straightforward: "The city definitely lives up to the hype."
What makes Oaxaca special:
The food: Described as "fantastic," Oaxaca's culinary scene offers traditional dishes like tlayudas at the night street market, multiple varieties of mole, mezcal tastings at Casa de Mezcal, and market exploration that reveals the region's deep food culture.
The weather: "Only surpassed by the weather (think San Diego)." December means comfortable temperatures, sunshine, and none of the altitude-related breathlessness that affects some visitors to Mexico City's 7,350-foot elevation.
Five days of wandering markets, exploring ruins, enjoying the festive Christmas atmosphere at the Zocalo, visiting the cathedral, and browsing the night street market created a relaxed, immersive experience.
