While Santa María Sola is a hidden gem with no single "best" area for all travellers due to its rural nature, the most convenient and comfortable option is to stay in Oaxaca City and arrange day trips to Santa María Sola.
Oaxaca City offers a range of excellent accommodations and serves as the superb base for exploring the region. The historic centre, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is particularly well-suited for visitors. Here, you'll find a concentration of boutique hotels, high-quality restaurants, and artisan shops, all within walking distance of landmarks like the Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzmán and the Zócalo, the main square. The streets are often pedestrian-friendly and easy to navigate.
Couples looking for a refined and culturally rich experience will find the historic centre of Oaxaca City ideal. You can enjoy candlelit dinners, explore art galleries, and visit local markets like Mercado Benito Juárez at your leisure. The convenience of having everything on your doorstep allows for a relaxed and enjoyable trip, with easy access to organised tours or private transport for your day trip to Santa María Sola.
For those who appreciate a blend of comfort and cultural immersion, staying in Oaxaca City offers the best of both worlds.