Valladolid is a very charming town in Yucatan. It is a unique destination to visit and still not a fully appreciated gem of Mexico! This small colonial city has a slow-paced and peaceful atmosphere. Its colourful streets with beautiful pastel buildings, old historic churches, and delicious cuisine are ideal spots to appreciate another kind of Mexico. Also, Valladolid is a perfect central location to base your exploration of nearby Mayan sites. Let’s go through all the reasons why you should visit Valladolid.

Valladolid has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1998.

↬ Note : Remember that Valladolid is in Yucatan state and there is one hour time difference in the winter months. They are one hour behind Quintana Roo state.

Wander the streets 

The Valladolid colonial Spanish architecture is unmistakable and its one of the most fascinating things to see. Take a walk around its streets and see the buildings, their façades and doors- they are simply stunning. The colorful pastel buildings create many perfect picturesque opportunities. Make sure to pass by the heart of Valladolid- its central plaza with San Servacio church. 

Eat at Hosteria del Marques 

Sit in a tranquil colonial courtyard with a beautiful fountain, and watch the waiter prepare delicious guacamole right in front of you. We highly recommend you try the lemon chicken soup. ?Delicious!

Visit the local market in the morning where you can find all variety of things like fruits and vegetables, toys, flowers, clothing. Then stop for a traditional Mexican cuisine lunch at one of the surrounding cheap taquerias and feel like a local.

Swim in near by cenotes 

There are many beautiful natural water holes around Yucatan Peninsula and some of the most interesting ones are located just outside the city. All good reasons why you should visit Valladolid.

Make sure you visit cenotes Samula and Xkeken- both located underground in large caves, where you can swim in calm refreshing waters. Both of those cenotes are open late, even after dark and have artificial lighting inside. Therefore you can come here late and enjoy this whole place just by yourself- as we did. It was truly magical. 

If you were to chose only one cenote, the must would be Suytun. It’s an absolutely breathtaking cave with stunning light coming from a hole in the ceiling. Here you should arrive between 11am and 2 pm on a sunny day to get the best out of the light. 

↬ Read : Best Cenotes to visit in Yucatan

Explore the Mayan Civilisation

Another reason why should visit Valladolid is because it’s the perfect base for exploring the nearby Maya sites. Stay overnight at one of the wonderful, colonial style bed & breakfasts and depart early. Make sure to reach Chichen Itza before the crowds get there. 

↬ Read : Chichen Itza- The New World Wonder Guide

↬ TIP : Make sure to stop by Cenote Il-Kill after visiting Chichen Itza for a refreshing swim.

Spend a few hours discovering the hidden ruins of Ek Balam. It’s not so popular with tourists, yet it’s a fascinating Mayan complex with buildings that you can still climb.

Where to eat

Hosteria del Marques where you can enjoy dinner in beautiful colonial courtyard. Also El Atrio del Mayab, right in the central square is a great choice. Try the local dish “queso relleno” (stuffed cheese). 

Where to stay

There are many hotel choices in Valladolid, from budget to luxurious.

We highly suggest staying in a mid range, stunning colonial style bed & breakfast close to the center square like Hotel Posada San Juan or Casa Tia Micha. We stayed in the latter and loved the atmosphere and delicious breakfast served in the garden.

Find all hotels in Valladolid on booking.com

We recommend: Hotel Posada San Juan – Casa Tia Micha