//
Municipality and town in Oaxaca, Mexico
Photo: Gerardo Corona Alarcón, CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons
Nestled in the scenic valleys of the state of Oaxaca, Mexico, San Pedro y San Pablo Teposcolula (usually known simply as Teposcolula) is a hidden gem far from the crowds of more obvious tourist hotspots. This quaint town, with its rich cultural heritage and picturesque surroundings, offers a unique and authentic Mexican experience for travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure. The town is one of Mexico's designated Pueblos Mágicos.
From the travel guide. Select a place for details, a map and what is nearby.
Convento de San Pedro y San Pablo
The town's iconic Church of San Pedro y San Pablo dates back to the 16th century when it was built by Dominican missionaries. This colonial-era church boasts remarkable architecture and intricate details. Admire the Baroque facade and step inside to witness the beautiful frescoes and religious artifacts that showcase the town's deep cultural roots. Don't miss the chance to see the famous 16th-century fresco El Martirio de San Pedro, inside the main church. The fresco is a masterpiece of Mexican colonial art and is considered one of the finest examples of its kind.
Palace built in 1560 for the last Mixtec queen of Teposcolula (the town was a matriarchal society). This is a unique structure that shows a clear transition from indigenous Mixtec architecture to Spanish construction techniques. The eastern courtyard is reconstructed and you can see arches and balconies that are of obvious Spanish design, but with transoms and stonework that are of obvious Mixtec design. The site is of high historical interest yet little information about its context is provided. The building houses a local cultural center and children's library with book collections on history, art, and literature.
Zocalo
Ruins of the original (pre-Hispanic) Mixtec settlement. It was abandoned when the Spanish arrived and built the Convento de San Pedro y San Pablo. Site of the Lady of Yucundaá burial siteː the tomb contained thousands of pieces of Mixtec gold jewelry, beads, pottery, and other items valued in Mixtec society.
Cheery small traditional restaurant serving regional Oaxacan cuisine.
Comfortably casual restaurant serving regional Oaxacan cuisine.
Elegantly comfortable hotel in a renovated colonial building, rooms are set around a central courtyard. Modern bathrooms with new fixtures. On-site restaurant. Most upscale hotel in the area.
Moderate hotel with basic rooms with simple furnishings. WiFi is available but a bit flaky in some rooms.
Moderate small hotel with comfortable basic rooms. Small off-street parking lot.
Explore the town's pop-up market. Every Sunday, the main square (Parque Teposcolula) comes alive with the bustling Tianguis, where locals gather to sell their wares. From colorful textiles and handcrafted souvenirs to fresh produce and traditional Oaxacan cuisine, the markets offer a sensory delight for visitors.
By car
Teposcolulula is 120 km northwest of Oaxaca and takes 1-1/2 hour to drive.
Moto-taxis are common in Teposcolula. You can usually find some waiting near the bus station or near the Zocalo. Hotel desk staff can call a radio taxi for you. The town itself is small and easily walkable.
Read in the guideChoose an airport to see hotels, stations, taxi ranks and car rental desks around it.
Oaxaca · International · OAX
Loading places around the airport…
Articles and travel topics about San Pedro y San Pablo Teposcolula and Mexico.
Travel tipsFind the cheapest countries to fly to from the US and UK in 2026. Compare realistic round-trip flight deals, budget airlines, and prime booking windows.
8 min read
InspirationExplore the best places to visit in November across autumn foliage, mild desert warmth, southern spring blooms, and off-peak travel bargains.
6 min read
ItinerariesPlan your Isla Holbox trip with our complete Mexico guide. Explore sand streets, Punta Cocos bioluminescence, whale sharks, beach clubs, and ferries.
8 min read
Travel tipsIs it safe to travel to Mexico right now? Compare safety in Cancun, Riviera Maya, Mexico City, and Oaxaca with official travel advisories and local tips.
7 min read
Every section of the guide. Open one to read it in full.