Welcome to Valladolid, in Central America, Mexico!
In this blog post, we are going to share our personal experience traveling to the charming city of Valladolid, Mexico, to make your travel planning a piece of cake. We will uncover how to get there, places you CANNOT MISS, and travel tips for the destination.
Let’s jump right in!
Overview
Valladolid, known for its colorful colonial architecture, is a city steeped in history. Founded in 1543 by Spanish conquistador Francisco de Montejo, the city served as a key location during the Caste War of Yucatán.
Its historical importance is tangible as you wander through ornate churches and storied streets.
Today, Valladolid continues to thrive, offering visitors a taste of both old-world charm and lively Mexican spirit. Just a two-hour drive from tourist hotspots like Playa del Carmen and Chichén Itzá, Valladolid provides a welcome respite away from the hustle and bustle.
FUN FACT: Valladolid was nominated as one of the World’s Leading Emerging Tourism Destination 2023.
Location
Valladolid Mexico is nestled right in the middle of the Yucatán Peninsula, we found it the perfect place to stay and plan our visit to the surrounding areas.
Here is why:
It is a midway point between the amazing beaches of Cancun and the ancient ruins of Chichen Itza.
We wanted to spend a couple of days visiting Valladolid and afterward wanted to visit some amazing gems in the area, so we found this location the best to settle and move around in.
The Best Time to Visit Valladolid, Mexico
Valladolid has tropical weather, which keeps you warm all year round. Expect warm temperatures and lower humidity, resulting in perfect sights and attractions between September and June.
In April the temperatures rise above 30 degrees, and the atmosphere becomes really humid in preparation for the stormy months starting in May.
You can expect more travelers in the area during certain cultural events, such as the colorful Hanal Pixan, or Day of the Dead celebrations.
Getting to Valladolid, Mexico
There are three different options to consider when booking your flight to Mexico, this can be a big advantage when playing around with airfares.
Merida (MID) and Cancun (CUN) will have the most options available because they offer a wide range of international flights as well as connecting flights from nearby cities. Alternatively, Chichen Itza (CZA) Airport is also worth researching, as it is only 41 km away.
What’s the best site to buy Mexico flights?
If you want the best flights to Mexico, you can use Aviasales or Kiwi.com for the most competitive options.
Mexico Rental Car
When we travel, we always rent our car with Discover Cars. Their platform is straightforward and user-friendly, offering a wide range of vehicles at competitive prices all over the world.
We usually rent a car from the airport so that it’s easier to plan a round trip without the hassle of extra logistics before leaving.
Cancun to Valladolid Bus
Another option is public transportation. Valladolid’s central main bus station serves as the hub for various routes that crisscross the city and beyond.
Here, you’ll find buses heading towards major points of interest, as well as smaller, local buses (often referred to as “colectivos“) that traverse the city’s colorful streets.
Take an ADO bus from Cancun to Valladolid available in Cancun Centro (downtown). The journey takes 2.5 hours. Tickets start at 250 pesos each time, and you can purchase your ADO bus ticket online!
Bus Bud is an amazing platform for purchasing tickets in advance. You will find a variety of options for the ADO bus. Check them out below.
Where to stay in Valladolid Mexico
Below we will share the best options for all budgets.
Luxury Hotel
Oriundo Luxury Nature Villas offers a blend of secluded luxury with modern amenities, set amidst stunning natural scenery. Guests can enjoy private pools, eco-friendly designs, and close proximity to local attractions for an unforgettable experience.
Colonte Hotel Origen offers an intimate retreat featuring unique architectural designs that blend seamlessly with nature, alongside exceptional amenities and personalized services, set in the tranquil Valladolid area.
Medium Budget
Hotel Boutique Refugio 41 combines modern comfort with traditional elegance, offering guests a boutique experience with personalized attention, all set in the heart of the historic city.
Hacienda San Miguel Yucatan immerses guests in a blend of traditional hacienda-style ambiance with modern amenities, offering a tranquil escape in the picturesque surroundings of Valladolid.
Low Budget
Hostel Candelaria offers a cozy and vibrant atmosphere, perfect for budget-conscious travelers looking to explore Valladolid’s rich culture and history, with comfortable communal spaces and a friendly, welcoming vibe.
Che Valladolid Hostel offers a lively, adults-only atmosphere, perfect for social travelers looking to enjoy vibrant nightlife and comfortable, budget-friendly accommodations in the heart of Valladolid.
Now that we have all the logistics out of the way, let’s talk about the most important part. Why should you go to Valladolid?
Best things to do in Valladolid
Visit the Iglesia de San Servacio – Valladolid Cathedral
Before you leave, make sure to stop by the stunning Iglesia de San Servacio, another architectural gem of Valladolid.
The church stands on the site of a former Mayan temple and was originally constructed in 1545. It was rebuilt in the early 1700s after being damaged during a revolt, giving it a rich history that spans centuries.
This cathedral is an excellent example of colonial architecture with its intricate façade and traditional design. Its structure and style reflect the Spanish influence on the region, making it an architectural gem for those interested in historical buildings.
Inside we admired the religious artifacts, paintings, and statues. It felt really unique seeing the Spanish colonialism intertwine with the Mayan history.
Take a walk down Calzada de los Frailes
Calzada Del Franiles is considered to be Vallaldolid’s most beautiful street, you cannot skip it! The area is colorful and enchanting with beautifully preserved colonial buildings, lined with charming shops, galleries, and hotel facilities.
Calzada de los Frailes is a great place for visitors to shop for unique, locally made products ranging from traditional Mayan textiles to handmade jewelry.
If you love photography, you can get some lovely shots of buildings or intriguing entrances, you’re going to want to use your camera a lot!
To get into Calzada de los Frailes, take Calle 41 from Plaza Principal.
Visit the most popular nearby cenotes in Valladolid Mexico
Cenote Zaci
Cenote Zaci was one of our favorite cenotes to visit in the region because it looks quite dramatic due to the rock formation. There is also a small waterfall that adds an extra touch to the scenery.
To enter the cenote you have to go down the stairs. Beware, cenote Zaci is a popular cenote to visit so we recommend going early to avoid the crowds.
Cenote Ik Kil
Another great cenote to visit is Cenote Ik Kil! This one is loved by travelers because of its open-air feature with vegetation draping down, giving it a Tarzan vibe.
It is also among the famous cenotes because it is close to Chichen Itza so, it is included in tour packages. If you want to save yourself some hassle of planning everything yourself, we definitely recommend this option!
Cenote Xkeken (cenote Dzitnup)
Unlike the other cenotes cited so far, this is a semi-open cenote which creates a very special atmosphere with the striking blue water and stalactites.
What is a semi-open cenote? it is a feature for cenotes that resemble a cave with an opening at the top leaving an opening for daylight to shine through, creating unique effects.
Cenote Oxman
If you are looking for a hidden gem, cenote Oxman is definitely the one. The cenote is less crowded than others as it is less famous so it’s a special one to visit. Cenote Oxman features a deep, open-water pool with a high swing rope for those looking for a thrill.
It’s surrounded by hanging vines and has a more rustic, less developed feel.
Cenote Chukum-Ha
Cenote Chukum-Ha is a stunning underground cenote near Valladolid, known for its deep, crystal-clear waters and limestone formations.
Ideal for swimming and jumping from platforms, it offers a unique and refreshing escape in a partially covered cavern lit by natural light shafts.
Cenote Saamal
Last on our list is Cenote Saamal! Like many cenotes in the Yucatan Peninsula, Saamal is part of a hacienda, which adds a layer of cultural and historical significance to the natural beauty of the cenote itself. The features of the hacienda surrounding Cenote Saamal contribute to a unique visitor experience, blending the natural environment with historical architecture and hospitality.
Here’s what typically characterizes the hacienda features at Cenote Saamal:
- Architecture: Colonial Spanish style with large wooden doors, red tile roofs, arched corridors, and thick stone walls.
- Landscaping: Well-maintained gardens with local flora and designed pathways.
- Amenities: Facilities such as changing rooms, showers, restaurants, and often a swimming pool.
- Cultural Elements: Displays local or colonial history, possibly including artworks and artifacts.
Visit Casa de los Venados
During our visit to Casa de los Venados in Valladolid Mexico, we were amazed by the collection of over 3,000 pieces of Mexican folk and contemporary art, beautifully displayed within a restored colonial mansion.
The guided tour, was led by the knowledgeable owners, provided fascinating insights into each artwork, enriching our understanding of Mexico’s vibrant cultural heritage.
This unique museum not only showcases exceptional local craftsmanship but also supports the community by promoting Mexican artists and contributing to local charities.
The blend of stunning architecture, rich artistry, and community engagement made our experience both educational and deeply memorable.
Important to note, because it is private property, it’s only possible to go to Casa de los Venados with a guided tour!
Mercado Municipal de Valladolid
The Mercado Municipal de Valladolid, located in the heart of the city, is a vibrant and bustling market that offers an authentic glimpse into local Yucatecan life.
This market is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the real flavors, sounds, and sights of Valladolid.
Here’s what makes it special:
- Local Produce: The market is filled with fresh, local produce, including exotic fruits, vegetables, spices, and other regional specialties that are hard to find elsewhere.
- Traditional Cuisine: It’s a fantastic place to try local dishes and snacks at very affordable prices. You could find some salbutes, panuchos, fresh juices and sweet treats, there’s a wide variety of Yucatecan cuisine to explore.
- Handicrafts and Souvenirs: Artisans from around the area come to sell their handmade goods, making it a great spot for finding unique gifts and souvenirs like embroidered clothing, traditional Mayan textiles, and handmade jewelry.
- Vibrant Atmosphere: The lively atmosphere, with vendors calling out their wares and locals mingling and shopping creates an amazing vibe.
Visit the San Bernardino Convent & Photograph the Valladolid Sign
The convent was built in the 16th century and is one of the oldest in the Yucatán Peninsula!
During our tour, we learned about its construction by Franciscan missionaries and its role in the local community, which was very educational.
The convent’s structure features massive stone walls and original frescoes, highlighting the typical architectural elements of Spanish colonial buildings in the New World.
We explored the historic Convento de San Bernardino right before our visit to Cenote Zaci, another reason why we loved this trip was how easy it was because the main attractions were close to each other.
While you are still in the main square, take a photo with the Valladolid sign! Similar signs are visible in towns and pueblos (small towns) in all parts of Mexico, and each sign is written with its name. If you are travelling around it’s a fun collection to have.
Walking Tour in Valladolid
When we get the chance, we always try to plan a guided tour in our itinerary. We are interested in learning about the local history of a place — what better way to do it than with a local guide?
This is where Get Your Guide comes into the picture. The platform is a marketplace for travel experiences, offering a broad range of activities, tours, and attraction tickets to your destination.
With Get Your Guide, you can pre-book your activities, skipping the hassle of long queues or sold-out experiences. It provides priority access to popular attractions, ensuring you make the most of your time. Additionally, their flexible cancellation policy offers peace of mind, allowing you to cancel your booking up to 24 hours before the activity begins.
INTERESTING FACT: Valladolid is considered one of the most beautiful cities in Mexico!
Visit the Main Square and the City Center
In Valladolid’s centre square there’s an urban park named the Parque Principal, also known as Parque Francisco Cantón Rosado, serves as a central hub of social and cultural activity.
This greenspace is directly behind the Cathedral and is surrounded by fountains and benches lined in the courtyard.
Here you will see white “tu yo sillas” which can accommodate two conversations.
The park is beautifully landscaped, the design includes several benches, perfect for sitting back and enjoying the lively atmosphere.
Among these benches, you’ll find the iconic “tu y yo sillas” (you and me chairs). These white chairs are designed to face each other, promoting conversations and making them a unique feature of the park.
Parque Principal is not only about leisure and relaxation but also serves as a commercial center. The perimeter of the park is lined with small shops offering a variety of local souvenirs from the Yucatán culture. Some crafts you can find are Mayan textiles, handmade jewelry, and other artisanal goods.
there are also plenty of local snacks to choose from! Vendors in the park sell popular Yucatán treats like marquesitas, a rolled-up crispy crepe filled typically with Edam cheese and other sweet or savory fillings.
Visit Chichen Itza Ruins from Valladolid
Chichen Itza is THE site you can’t miss during your visit here. It would be like going to a capital and missing the most important landmark.
Chichen Itza is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. It was one of the largest Maya cities and has a diverse architectural style, reflective of the many influences over its history. The site offers a deep dive into the Mayan-Toltec civilization with its impressive buildings and detailed carvings.
Key sights at Chichen Itza are El Castillo (the Pyramid of Kukulcan), the Great Ball Court, and the Temple of the Warriors. Also, take time to visit the Cenote Sagrado located within the site.
We recommend leaving Valladolid early in the morning, it is a 45-minute drive and Chichen Itza opens at 8:00 AM. It is totally worth the extra effort to avoid the crowds and the midday heat.
TIP: Hire a guide at the site or join a guided tour! You will learn so much more about the history of this sight from a local.
Take a Day Trip to Rio Lagartos and Las Coloradas
Taking a day trip from Valladolid Mexico to Rio Lagartos and Las Coloradas offers a fantastic opportunity to explore the unique natural landscapes and rich wildlife of the Yucatán Peninsula.
Renting a car provides the most flexibility for this journey, which takes about 1.5 to 2 hours to reach Rio Lagartos, a picturesque fishing village and a gateway to the remarkable biosphere reserve known for its diverse bird population, including vibrant flamingos.
A guided boat tour through the mangroves is the best way to experience the area, offering close encounters with flamingos, crocodiles, sea turtles, and a variety of birds.
Just a short drive from Rio Lagartos, Las Coloradas presents a stunning visual contrast with its famous pink lakes. This small village is also an important site for salt production, where you can observe and learn about the traditional methods of harvesting sea salt. The surreal landscape of pink waters, blue skies, and white salt mounds makes for unforgettable photographs and memories.
For the best experience, visit Rio Lagartos in the morning to maximize wildlife spotting, and head to Las Coloradas in the afternoon when the sunlight enhances the vivid colors of the lakes.
Discover Izamal, The Yellow City
Izamal was originally named “la Ciudad Amarilla” or “Joycity”. Izamal is famous for its vibrant yellow-painted buildings, is a captivating town about an hour’s drive from Valladolid in the Yucatán Peninsula.
This “Pueblo Magico” is steeped in history, with Mayan pyramids like Kinich Kak Moo integrated into its urban landscape.
The heart of Izamal is the 16th-century Convento de San Antonio de Padua, built atop a Mayan pyramid, which is a significant religious site for the veneration of the Virgin of the Immaculate Conception.
Enjoy Local and Regional Yucatan Cuisine
What is Yucatan Cuisine?
Yucatecan cuisine is a rich fusion of Mayan, Spanish, Caribbean, and Middle Eastern influences, renowned for its distinctive flavors and ingredients. Key components include:
- Achiote: Used for its earthy flavor and red color, most notably in Cochinita Pibil, slow-roasted pork wrapped in banana leaves.
- Lime Soup (Sopa de Lima): A tangy chicken soup made with local sweet limes, often garnished with fried tortilla strips.
- Poc Chuc: Grilled pork marinated in sour orange juice, served with pickled onions.
- Panuchos and Salbutes: Fried tortillas topped with beans, meat, and vegetables.
- Queso Relleno: Edam cheese stuffed with a spiced meat mixture, then baked in tomato sauce.
- Habanero Chiles: Frequently used in sauces and salsas for their intense heat.
Dine at the best Restaurants in Valladolid
During our visit to Valladolid, we explored a range of restaurants and local food. Here’s a glimpse into our dining experiences:
- IX CAT IK: Situated about 12 blocks from the center, this charming Mayan restaurant offers a vibrant atmosphere with plenty of vegetarian and vegan options. We savored their offerings in the outdoor seating area, accompanied by a selection of good beers, cocktails, and wine.
- El Altorio de Mayab: Located right on the central square next to the cathedral, this spot was touristy but excellent local dishes served in a beautiful courtyard with views of the cathedral.
- Burrito Amor: A branch of a popular Tulum restaurant, this cute spot offers tasty burritos, refreshing green juices, and excellent coffee.
- La Palapita de los Tamales: A casual place specializing in unique tamales and other Yucatecan dishes, which provide an authentic dining experience.
- La Plaza Maya: On Calle 41, this restaurant served up regional specialties in a breezy setting with high ceilings, though it lacked outdoor seating.
Conclusion
It’s a wrap for this blog post!
We found Mexico Valladolid an amazing destination, the atmosphere was amazing in this magical town, the cenotes, the Mexican food, and the Mexican culture was truly special.
Let us know in the comments below how your experience in Valladolid Yucatan was!
FAQ
Is Valladolid worth visiting Mexico?
Absolutely! Valladolid is a hidden gem in Mexico, often overlooked by tourists but highly praised by travelers who do visit. The city offers a unique blend of colonial architecture, vibrant local culture, and a laid-back atmosphere that makes it the perfect destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of more popular tourist spots.
One of the main reasons why Valladolid is worth visiting in Mexico is its rich history and cultural heritage. The city was founded in 1543 and has managed to preserve its colonial charm over the centuries. Visitors can explore historic sites such as the San Bernardino Convent, Casa de los Venados, or take a stroll through the colorful streets lined with traditional Mexican houses.
How many days should I spend in Valladolid?
It is recommended to spend at least 2-3 days in Valladolid to fully experience the city’s offerings. For those interested in history and architecture, one day can be dedicated to exploring the various colonial buildings and churches scattered throughout the city. The next day can be spent visiting nearby Mayan ruins such as Chichen Itza or Ek Balam, both within an hour’s drive from Valladolid.
Is it safe to walk around Valladolid?
Yes, it is generally safe to walk around Valladolid. The city has a low crime rate and locals are known for their friendliness and hospitality towards tourists. However, as with any travel destination, it is always important to use caution and be aware of your surroundings. Avoid walking alone at night in secluded areas and keep your valuables secured. Overall, Valladolid is a safe destination for visitors.
How do you get around in Valladolid Mexico?
There are several options for getting around Valladolid, including walking, biking, and taking public transportation. The city is relatively small and easily navigable on foot, making it a great option for exploring the charming streets and colonial architecture.
What is the most beautiful street in Valladolid?
One of the most beautiful streets in Valladolid is Calle 41, also known as “Calle de los Frailes” or “Street of Friars”. This street is lined with colorful colonial buildings and is a popular spot for tourists to take photos. It also leads to the Cenote Zaci, a stunning natural pool that is a must-see attraction in Valladolid.
Does Valladolid have a beach?
While Valladolid is not located directly on the coast, there are several nearby beaches that can be easily reached by car or bus. The closest beach is approximately an hour away at Rio Lagartos, a small fishing village known for its pink salt flats and abundant wildlife. Other popular beach destinations near Valladolid include Playa del Carmen and Tulum, both of which offer stunning white sand beaches and crystal clear waters.
