Antigua GuatemalavsOaxaca
Can't decide between Antigua Guatemala and Oaxaca? Compare these two amazing destinations to find your perfect match.
Antigua Guatemala
Antigua Guatemala is a beautifully preserved Spanish colonial town surrounded by three volcanoes. This UNESCO World Heritage city offers cobblestone streets lined with colorful buildings, stunning church ruins, excellent coffee, and some of Central America's best Spanish schools.
Known for
Oaxaca
Oaxaca is Mexico's cultural heartland, a UNESCO city famous for its indigenous traditions, world-renowned cuisine, and mezcal culture. This colorful colonial town offers ancient Zapotec ruins, vibrant markets, folk art traditions, and the country's best Day of the Dead celebrations.
Known for
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Head-to-Head Comparison
See how these destinations stack up in key categories
Culture & History
Antigua Guatemala offers Central Park & Cathedral, Santa Catalina Arch, Volcano Hiking (Pacaya, Acatenango)
Oaxaca offers Monte Albán Ruins, Mercado Benito Juárez, Mezcal Tasting
Food & Dining
Antigua Guatemala is famous for its local dining scene
Oaxaca is famous for its local dining scene
Nightlife
Antigua Guatemala offers a relaxed evening atmosphere
Oaxaca offers a relaxed evening atmosphere
Best Time to Visit
November to April
October to April (late October for Day of the Dead)
Weather
Summer: 22°C, Winter: 18°C
Summer: 25°C, Winter: 20°C
Top Attractions in Antigua Guatemala
- 1Central Park & Cathedral
- 2Santa Catalina Arch
- 3Volcano Hiking (Pacaya, Acatenango)
- 4Coffee Farm Tours
- 5Semana Santa (Holy Week)
- 6Chocolate Workshops
Top Attractions in Oaxaca
- 1Monte Albán Ruins
- 2Mercado Benito Juárez
- 3Mezcal Tasting
- 4Santo Domingo Church
- 5Day of the Dead
- 6Cooking Classes
Antigua Guatemala is Popular With
Oaxaca is Popular With
Hidden Gems
Discover lesser-known attractions in each city
Hidden Gems in Antigua Guatemala
- 1
Cerro de la Cruz
A hilltop viewpoint overlooking the entire city of Antigua with the Volcán de Agua perfectly framed in the background.
- 2
Café Condesa's Secret Garden
Behind the popular Café Condesa on Parque Central lies a stunning, tranquil botanical garden attached to the ruins of an old convent.
Hidden Gems in Oaxaca
- 1
Jardín Etnobotánico de Oaxaca
A stunning botanical garden located in the grounds of the Santo Domingo cultural center, showcasing the incredible plant diversity of Oaxaca state.
- 2
Pochote Xochimilco Market
A small, organic farmers' and artisans' market held on Saturdays in the Xochimilco neighborhood.
Neighborhoods to Explore
Discover the best areas to visit in each city
Top Areas in Antigua Guatemala
Centro Histórico
The historic heart of Antigua, centered around Parque Central.
La Merced
A slightly quieter, more residential area northwest of the center, anchored by the stunning yellow Baroque facade of La Merced Church.
Top Areas in Oaxaca
Centro Histórico
The vibrant, walkable heart of Oaxaca, centered around the Zócalo (main square).
Reforma & Jalatlaco
A trendy, artsy neighborhood northeast of the center, known for its beautifully restored streets, colorful murals, and hip cafes.
Budget Comparison
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Budget in Antigua Guatemala
Budget in Oaxaca
Book Activities
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Book Activities in Antigua Guatemala
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Book Activities in Oaxaca
Skip the line with pre-booked tours and attractions
Getting There
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Find cheap transport to Antigua Guatemala
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Find cheap transport to Oaxaca
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Our Verdict
Both Antigua Guatemala and Oaxaca are incredible destinations. Antigua Guatemala excels in volcanoes and coffee, while Oaxaca stands out for Oaxacan cuisine and mezcal.
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