Valladolid is a must-visit when exploring the Yucatán region in Mexico. This colonial city does not feel like a bustling city, but rather like a charming Mexican town with a cozy town square. You will find colorful houses, colonial churches, authentic restaurants, and various highlights in the surrounding area (Hello world wonder Chichen Itza!) that you definitely need to add to your list. From cenotes to ancient Mayan ruins. Oh, and before you continue reading, it’s good to note: do not confuse this Mexican city with the Spanish city of Valladolid; this city is named after it. Also, pay attention to the pronunciation of the city’s name, which is ‘bajadoliet’.
Valladolid | Mexico
→ Handy: Book and compare your flight tickets to Mexico here
→ Hotel tip: Hotel Waye, Hotel Casa Bamboo, or La Candelaria
Things You Must Do in Valladolid
Compared to the party and resort destination Cancun, Valladolid is completely different. The city was founded in 1545 on the site of an ancient Mayan city. It was once the third most important city in Yucatan, but many important buildings were destroyed during the war between the Mayan troops and the Mexican army. Luckily, you can still find many pastel-colored houses here, and you won’t encounter large resorts and mass tourism. If you’re looking for a taste of authentic Mexico, this is a great place to be! Curious about what you should not miss? We share the best tips below:
Chichen Itza
Chichen Itza is undoubtedly the highlight of Valladolid and possibly even of your entire trip to Yucatán. This impressive archaeological site is among the most iconic in the world and has been recognized as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World since 2007. Additionally, Chichen Itza has been on the UNESCO World Heritage List since 1988.
Many people think that Chichen Itza is just one temple, but that could not be further from the truth. It is a vast complex with multiple temples and structures, all built around the famous pyramid of Kukulcán. This pyramid, also known as El Castillo, is 30 meters high and has 365 steps, symbolizing each day of the year.
To thoroughly visit Chichen Itza, it’s best to set aside a few hours. Start your visit early in the morning so you can avoid the crowds from the many tourist buses. Around noon, it can get quite busy as multiple tours from Cancun arrive daily, and these buses are often packed. In the early morning, those buses haven’t arrived yet, and there are also fewer souvenir sellers, allowing you to enjoy the sights in peace. The park is open from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM. By going early, you also have time to take stunning photos of the pyramids without hordes of tourists in the frame. Also, the temperatures in the afternoon are often very high, and there is little shade on the grounds, making it much more pleasant in the morning.
To avoid long queues, it’s best to buy a ticket in advance. It’s also possible to take a guided tour so that you can learn all about the history and significance of the various structures. If you prefer to explore at your own pace, an audio guide via an app is a good alternative. For just €5, you can download a comprehensive audio tour that guides you through the site on a well-marked route.
Alternative: Ek Balam and Cenote X’Canche
If you are looking for a less crowded alternative to Chichen Itza, consider visiting the Mayan temple Ek Balam. Though this temple is somewhat smaller, it is located deeper in the jungle, providing a more intimate and equally beautiful experience. Additionally, you can visit this site without worrying about large tourist groups. From Ek Balam, you can also visit the nearby Cenote X’Canche.
Cenote Secreto Maya
In the vicinity of Valladolid, you can find some of the most beautiful cenotes in all of Mexico! A cenote is a cave or pool filled with water. In the Yucatán region, there are as many as 3000 cenotes! A cenote that is truly worth visiting is Secreto Maya. And the name already hints at what you hope for: ‘secreto’. You only have to share this cenote with a handful of people, and you don’t even have to be up early to do so. Besides the tranquility, this cenote is stunningly beautiful! From above, you have a magnificent view, and with a bit of luck, the sun will reflect off the water, making the scene even more beautiful. You can float or swim in the cenote, or if you’re in the mood for some action, you can jump into the water à la Tarzan via a vine.
On your way back, don’t head straight back to the parking lot, for there is a lovely pool nearby where you can easily spend the rest of the day! The cost is around €13 per person, which includes a life jacket (this is mandatory), and you can also use the pool.
Cenote Ik Kil
In addition to Secreto Maya, there are countless other cenotes to discover around Valladolid. One of the cenotes that pairs wonderfully with Chichen Itza is Cenote Ik Kil. This is one of the most famous cenotes in all of Mexico and is therefore quite visited. This beautiful water source is an ideal spot to cool off after your visit to the Mayan temple. If you visit Chichen Itza early in the morning, you can beat the crowds and enjoy a peaceful swim.
Cenote Samula
Cenote Samula is located underground and is illuminated by a hole at the top of the cave, where sunlight filters through. This creates a magical and unique atmosphere that you really don’t want to miss. It is advisable to go on a sunny day to fully enjoy this beautiful spectacle. Moreover, your ticket to Samula also grants you direct access to the nearby X’kekén cenote, making your visit even more worthwhile!
Cenote Zaci
Through Lonely Planet and Google Maps, we discovered that the cenote Zaci is about a 10-minute walk from our hotel. Not necessarily the most beautiful cenote, but since it was quite hot, a towel and swimming gear were soon tossed into a bag. In terms of view, expectations were certainly met, but I must admit that I did not jump in (perhaps due to an unfounded fear of algae and polluted water). However, taking a splash was definitely an option!
Cenote Oxman
Cenote Oxman is one of the most beautiful but lesser-known cenotes in Valladolid. The hole in the ceiling of the cave allows long tree roots to reach toward the water, creating a fairy-tale scene. Additionally, you can jump into the water with a swing rope, which is not only fun to do but also fun to watch. A helpful tip: don’t follow the directions on Google Maps too strictly when visiting this cenote, or you might miss the correct turn. Keep a keen eye out for the sign reading “Cenote Oxman” to find the right path.
Cenote Suytún
Cenote Suytún is known for its photogenic platform in the middle, which offers the perfect spot for a beautiful photo. If you come at the right time of day, a stunning beam of light shines through the hole, creating a magical atmosphere. However, note that it can get quite busy here, and you may sometimes have to wait to access the platform. If you want to avoid the crowds, try to arrive as early as possible, although you might miss the enchanting light beam.
The Church of Uayma
Just a 20-minute drive from Valladolid lies the small village of Uayma, home to about 2300 people. Here stands one of the most impressive churches in the region, which was built by the Spanish to spread their faith and culture. What makes this church special is that stones from various nearby Mayan temples, including those from the famous Chichen Itza, were used in its construction. During the Caste War, which lasted from 1847 to 1901, the church was almost entirely destroyed by the Mayans. Today, however, this unique building has been fully restored. With its striking red color and fascinating history, this church is definitely worth a visit.
Visit the Colorful Center of Valladolid
The town itself is also worth spending time in due to its colorful houses and rich history. Valladolid was founded in 1545 on the site of the former Mayan city of Zaci-Val. Until the 19th century, Valladolid was the third most important city in Yucatán, with about 15,000 inhabitants around 1840. However, the Caste War also raged in Valladolid, and the town became the scene of intense fighting in the following years. Maya troops fought against the Mexican army of the Republic of Yucatán, leading to the destruction of many important buildings. Despite these devastations, you can still clearly see today that Valladolid is a colonial city, thanks to its characteristic architectural style in the center. One of the most beautiful and colorful streets is Calzada de los Frailes.
The charming center is characterized by a beautiful square, the perfect place to relax and enjoy the vibrant Mexican atmosphere. Located on this square is the impressive San Gervasio Cathedral, one of the most photographed spots in Valladolid. Especially in the evening, when the cathedral is beautifully illuminated, it attracts many visitors. Around the square, you will find narrow, colorful streets full of shops and historical buildings. It’s delightful to wander through here and be surprised by where you end up.
Tasting Tequila in Valladolid
A visit to Valladolid is incomplete without tasting tequila somewhere. Almost every souvenir shop around Parque Francisco Cantón offers tastings, so be sure to take the time to visit a few. Don’t forget to pop into the restaurant Casona de Valladolid on Calle 41. Although the food is good, it is mainly the large mosaic fountain in the courtyard that is worth a look. In some shops, you will also find colorful piñatas, typical Mexican birthday decorations, which are definitely worth seeing. Craving a bite to eat? Then you should try Pollo Pibil!
Restaurants in Valladolid
Craving a bite to eat or somewhere to drink? Here are some places you definitely want to check out:
- Le Kaat: A little outside the center of Valladolid, this gem can be found. This restaurant is partly indoors and partly located in a cozy, beautiful inner garden. The menu is extensive and features vegan options. A recommendation for breakfast, lunch, and dinner!
- Los Frappes: This restaurant is situated at a lovely square near the famous “Valladolid letters.” You can enjoy a nice coffee, but it’s also an excellent place for dinner (tacos!) and cocktails—all at an affordable price with regular live music!
- El Atrio del Mayab: Located in the heart of the center, El Atrio del Mayab offers a dining experience without the hustle and bustle, thanks to its incredibly beautiful garden. This is a lovely spot for a romantic evening out! The dishes are also somewhat fancier, and the plates are beautifully presented. After dinner, we went out with Oscar’s friend and his girlfriend to two different rooftop bars for cocktails and coronas. It was a very pleasant evening.
- Cocktails at a rooftop bar: The center of Valladolid is home to many restaurants and bars with rooftop bars. It’s delightful to sit here and enjoy the view. As you stroll through the center, you will see many restaurants with signs reading ‘rooftop bar’. These places tend to be pricier than average.
Plan Your Trip to Valladolid
Excited to visit Valladolid? Here’s exactly how to get there:
Flight Tickets to Mexico
If you want to arrange and book a trip to Mexico yourself, it’s advisable to compare flight tickets several times (on different days and times). We saw many tickets priced over €1000 to Cancun, but ultimately managed to find one for €775 through Skyscanner. Midweek searches helped us more than weekends.
Of course, you do not have to travel via Cancun if you want to go to Valladolid; there are many more ways to reach Valladolid. For many travelers, it is on the route from northern Mexico to Guatemala and/or Belize, or vice versa from Central America to Mexico City. From Mexico City, you may find cheaper flights, especially if you go through Madrid, allowing you to experience even more authentic Mexican places. So look for what fits your travel plans! We traveled from Cancun to Valladolid.
How to Get There?
Valladolid is located between many other travel destinations. Many travelers visit Valladolid from Tulum, Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Bacalar, or Merida. For instance, we first stayed in Cancun to recover after a long flight and then traveled on to Valladolid. Buses can be easily booked at stations or online. Here’s more information about the different buses and the approximate travel times:
From Tulum to Valladolid
By rental car: 1.5 hours drive
By bus: nearly 2 hours travel time from €9
From Cancun to Valladolid
By rental car: 2 hours drive
By bus: 2.5 hours travel time from €10
From Playa del Carmen to Valladolid
By rental car: 1.5 hours drive
By bus: 2 hours travel time from €12
From Bacalar to Valladolid
By rental car: 3.5 hours drive
By bus: 4.5 hours travel time from €25
From Merida to Valladolid
By rental car: 2 hours drive
By bus: 2.15 hours travel time from €15
Where to Stay and For How Long?
Hotel Waye is a good 4-star hotel in Valladolid. The hotel rooms are neat (there’s a hammock!), there is free parking, and within a 15-minute walk, you are in the center. The hotel also has a swimming pool where you can take a refreshing dip! Looking for more recommendations? Hotel Casa Bamboo or La Candelaria are also nice options to check out!
→ Tip: You have enough time to explore all the highlights at a comfortable pace if you stay three nights in Valladolid.
Best Time to Visit
The average temperature in Valladolid is between 26 to 28 degrees. In May and June, it can even rise to 35 degrees. From November to April is the dry season, which is the best time to visit Valladolid. The rainy season runs from May to October. The rain showers are often short but intense and mostly occur in the afternoon and evening.
Want to read more about Mexico?
Check out these articles:
- Things to do in and around Valladolid, Mexico
- The most beautiful Mayan temples in Mexico
- Discover the Mayan city of Palenque in the heart of Mexico
- Explore the unknown Central Mexico
Interested in going to Mexico?
Spotted for you:
- Compare flights to Mexico
- Mexico travel guides
- The best hotels in Valladolid
- Visit Valladolid with Riksja
→ Check out all our articles about Mexico here.