The Best Views of Oaxaca City

Rising steeply to the northwest of the historic centre, this dominant hill offers the most comprehensive, sweeping panoramic views over the entire city and the surrounding valley. It was historically used as an Aztec military outpost due to its uncompromised vantage point. Today, it hosts an observatory, a large statue of Benito Juárez, and the famous Guelaguetza amphitheatre. Walking up to the viewing platforms provides a brilliant perspective on the city's grid layout and the surrounding mountains. It is particularly spectacular at sunset when the valley fills with golden light.

Located a significant drive from the city, this viewpoint is an absolute must for nature lovers. The natural, mineral-rich infinity pools sit literally on the edge of a sheer cliff face. Gazing out from the water provides an uninterrupted, dizzying view down a deep gorge and across to endless, rugged mountain ranges. The sight of the petrified waterfalls tumbling into the abyss below is genuinely breathtaking. It is one of the most dramatically scenic and photographed locations in all of Mexico.

While primarily an archaeological wonder, the ancient ruins of Monte Albán provide some of the most awe-inspiring viewpoints in the state. Climbing the monumental steps of the South Platform places you high above the expansive main plaza of the ruins. From this elevated vantage, you can see exactly why the Zapotecs chose this flattened mountaintop for their capital; it commands views down into the three converging arms of the Oaxaca Valley. The sheer scale of the landscape and the ancient engineering is deeply humbling. It offers a majestic, historical perspective on the region.

For a highly refined viewing experience, the rooftop terrace of this acclaimed restaurant offers unparalleled, intimate views of the Templo de Santo Domingo. Situated directly across from the church, the elevated perspective allows you to appreciate the intricate stone carvings of the facade and the surrounding agave gardens without the crowds of the plaza. As evening approaches, the church is dramatically illuminated against the darkening sky. It is an exceptional spot to enjoy world-class culinary creations while absorbing the city's most iconic architectural view.

Situated high on the Cerro del Fortín, this small observatory offers incredible views both during the day and late at night. During daylight hours, the platform provides a clear, unobstructed sightline straight down onto the grid of the historic centre and out towards the airport. On specific clear nights, the facility opens its telescopes to the public, allowing visitors to observe the night sky above the valley. It combines excellent civic views with a touch of scientific curiosity. It is a quiet, less frequented alternative to the main viewing platforms nearby.

Because the city is built on a gentle slope towards the river, certain urban squares provide surprisingly excellent vantage points. The expansive, raised plaza in front of the Basilica of Solitude offers wonderful views back over the rooftops of the city towards the distant mountains. It is a fantastic place to sit with a local sorbet and appreciate the scale of the basilica's unique carved facade while watching the local life unfold below. The elevated position captures pleasant breezes, making it a comfortable spot for afternoon relaxation.