I love love love local markets, especially crafts markets and there is nearly one every day and I just don't have the time, or energy for them all. Anyone have any recommendations as to which are the best to visit? I am sort of building my trip around markets....Thanks

San Cristobal de las Casas.

You mean in through-out the entire country of Mexico?

I'd make a distinction between those 2, "local" to me means markets targeting locals for everyday shopping, and "crafts markets" targeting tourists. My preference is for the former, it sounds like you're looking for the latter. And yes, it's essential to know which region interests you to make recommendations. However, I think you'll find satisfying markets of both kinds anywhere you go so maybe think about other criteria to help you decide, assuming you have other interests as well.

I see you'll be in Oaxaca? If you'll be in CDMX as well, I think Tepito has to be visited at least once by anyone who likes Mexico and Mexican markets. Just leave all valuables at your hotel, it's pretty dodgy. And maybe go with a guide, especially if you're female. But there's nothing like it in the rest of the country. It is said that "en Tepito todo se vende menos la dignidad" (in Tepito everything is for sale, except dignity).

Outside Oaxaca there's the Sunday market at Tlacolula, huge & something for everyone. Not far by taxi or go local and take a colectivo.

I wonder if I should just hire a taxi driver for the day, or get a taxi to and from each village, any thoughts?

Geez, that is not exactly a ringing endorsement--the comment about dignity.....

Where??

Exactly! From what we know so far, the OP could be anywhere in Mexico.

Where is that?

Eesh, I didn't realize I forgot to specify which region. I meant Oaxaca.

While in Oaxaca to various villages.

I want to visit this country in a short time.

Soon? Or briefly?

I am headed to MC and Oaxaca next week; am pretty stoked.

Hire the taxi for a few hours, from the city of Oaxaca to the market(s) outside the city. Driver, if you hire one who speaks English, can walk with you through the market and translate if you do not speak Spanish. It's an incredibly easy city to find your way around, and to the sights outside.