Colonial city in Mexico's Yucatán peninsula with 16th-century churches and nearby Mayan ruins. Known for lively nightlife, traditional cuisine, and local markets.
Valladolid, a colonial city in Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula, is known for its colorful streets and Mayan influence. In the historic center, you'll see the 16th-century Convent of San Bernardino de Siena and pastel-colored buildings along Calzada de los Frailes. Nearby, you can swim in cenotes like Suytun or explore the ancient pyramids of Chichén Itzá. In Valladolid, you'll also taste authentic Yucatecan dishes and experience local traditions.
Getting to Valladolid
Valladolid is about 2 hours by car from Cancún and Mérida. You can rent a car at either airport or take an ADO bus, which runs frequently between major cities in the Yucatán. The bus station in Valladolid is centrally located on Calle 46.
Exploring the City Center
Begin at Parque Francisco Cantón, the main square. You'll see the Cathedral of San Servacio and locals sitting on the distinctive white "tú y yo" chairs. Walk a few blocks to Calzada de los Frailes street, lined with pastel-colored buildings housing boutique shops and cafes. At the end stands the Convent of San Bernardino de Siena, built in 1552, which hosts a nightly sound and light show.
Cooling Off in Cenotes
Several cenotes (natural sinkholes) are available for swimming in clear waters. Cenote Zací, right in the city center, offers a convenient spot for a quick swim. About 15 minutes outside town, Cenote Suytun has a long stone walkway extending into the water. Cenotes Samula and X'keken, with their dramatic stalactites, are also worth visiting.
Visiting Mayan Ruins
Valladolid's location makes it convenient for exploring nearby Mayan sites. Chichén Itzá, with its iconic El Castillo pyramid, is 45 minutes away. For a less crowded experience, go to Ek Balam, 30 minutes north of town, where you can climb the main temple for jungle views.
Trying Yucatecan Cuisine
Yucatecan cuisine has distinct flavors specific to the region. Try cochinita pibil, pork slow-roasted in banana leaves, or longaniza sausage, a local specialty. The restaurant at El Mesón del Marqués hotel serves traditional dishes in a colonial courtyard setting. For a casual meal, visit Yerbabuena del Sisal near the convent. In the evening, look for street carts selling marquesitas - crispy crepes filled with cheese and sweet toppings.
Where to Stay
Valladolid has accommodations for various budgets. Hotel Posada San Juan, in a restored colonial building near the main square, has traditional tile floors and a small pool. Coqui Coqui Perfumeria, housed in a 16th century building, has just two suites. Budget travelers can enjoy the garden setting at Hostel Candelaria.
Day Trips from Valladolid
Beyond ruins and cenotes, you can visit other Yucatán attractions from Valladolid. At Río Lagartos, about 1.5 hours north, you can see flocks of pink flamingos in their natural habitat. Nearby, the salt ponds of Las Coloradas create bright pink landscapes. For a beach day, go to El Cuyo, a small fishing village about 2 hours away with long stretches of undeveloped coastline.
