Valladolid is a beautiful colonial town in the heart of Yucatán, known for its colorful facades, relaxed atmosphere, a large main square with a cathedral, and an impressive convent. Right in the center, you’ll even find a cenote, something truly unique. Valladolid is a great destination to include in your trip through Mexico and a perfect base for exploring the world-famous Maya ruins of Chichén Itzá and the many cenotes in the surrounding area. In this article, I’m sharing my tips for the best things to do, must-see sights, and activities in and around Valladolid in Mexico to help you make the most of your visit.
One of the most beautiful streets and things to do in Valladolid is Calle de los Frailes. This charming street is lined with pastel-colored façades and lush plants, making it incredibly photogenic. You’ll find stylish boutique hotels, small restaurants, and unique shops. It’s the kind of place you’ll want to return to again and again during your stay.
Wandering through the center of Valladolid, you’re surrounded by a vibrant palette of colors. One moment you’ll pass a bright red supermarket, the next a yellow pharmacy or a pink clothing store, only to find an entirely different color scheme just one street over. It is one of the best things to do in Valladolid if you love photography and colorful street scenes.
Valladolid’s central plaza, home to the San Gervasio Cathedral, is a classic example of a traditional Mexican town square, designed in a chessboard pattern, right in the heart of the city. It’s where locals gather in the evenings and on weekends to enjoy a snack, sip a drink, or simply catch up. As the sun sets, the sky fills with hundreds of starlings circling above – a beautiful daily ritual.
If you’re into art, one of the things to do and see in Valladolid Mexico is visit the Palacio Municipal (town hall), where you’ll find a series of paintings that reflect the region’s culture and history.
At the end of Calle de los Frailes you’ll find Convento San Bernardino de Siena, one of the historic things to do and see in Valladolid, Mexico. This 16th-century convent once served as both a religious center and a defensive fortress. It is possible to visit its simple interior or admire the building from the adjacent square, where the colorful “Valladolid” letter sign, a popular photo spot, is also located. In the evenings, light and sound shows are often held here, so be sure to check the schedule.
Calle de los Frailes is home to a number of stores that focus on crafts and design. Here, you’ll discover beautiful jewelry, home décor, and clothing made from natural materials. Be sure to explore spots like La Troupe, Folks Valladolid, Auras, and Caravana.
Literally translated, it means ‘the Coqui Coqui pharmacy,’ but in reality, it’s a luxury perfume shop filled with scents, presented in an authentic apothecary setting. Coqui Coqui is the creation of duo Nicolás Malleville and Francesca Bonato, inspired by the rich fragrances, colors, and lifestyle of Yucatán and French Polynesia. A visit to a Coqui Coqui shop is a must for design lovers, with locations also in Cobá, Mérida, and Izamal.
At Coqui Coqui, you can also stay overnight in stylish and luxurious suites. However, there are usually only one or two rooms available. Only in Cobá will you find multiple suites, and believe me, this is the place you want to stay because it doesn’t get any more beautiful than this.
One of the unique things to do and attractions in Valladolid in Mexico is to visit Zaci cenote, located in the center of the city. This cenote lies only a few hundred meters from the central plaza and is surrounded by market stalls.
Looking for beautiful books about Mexico? Then step into the Dante bookstore, located on Valladolid’s central plaza, offering an extensive selection of books about Mexican art, culture, sights, and history. No time to visit the store? Check out my shop filled with countless books about Mexico.
The Yucatán Peninsula is known for its stunning cenotes, natural sinkholes or water-filled caves that once held deep spiritual meaning for the Maya. These sacred sites were believed to be gateways to the underworld and were used for important ceremonies. Today, cenotes are among the most unique attractions in the region, and visiting them is one of the top things to do in Valladolid. Whether you want to swim, dive, or simply soak up the magical atmosphere, here are my tips for some of the most beautiful cenotes around Valladolid, Mexico
Cenote Ik Kil is arguably one of the most impressive cenotes in Yucatán, Mexico. This open-air cenote near Valladolid allows sunlight to pour in, creating stunning light effects and illuminating the lush green vines that hang down into the water. However, it’s also one of the most visited cenotes due to its proximity to the popular Maya ruins of Chichén Itzá. To truly enjoy the experience, visit early in the morning before the tour buses arrive. If that’s not possible, I recommend skipping it, as swimming with hundreds of people at once takes away the magic.
Keep in mind that sunscreen and make-up are not allowed in the cenotes, as they harm the delicate ecosystem. You’ll be asked to shower beforehand and leave your belongings in a locker. Bring a waterproof bag if you plan to take photos.
Do you want to visit Cenote Ik Kil? Here you’ll find combined tours, where you visit several cenotes and Maya ruïns in one day.
One of my favorite cenotes near Valladolid, thanks to its mysterious atmosphere, is Cenote Suytun. Unlike many others, this cenote is completely covered at the top, making it feel more like a cave. Suytun is famous for its circular platform in the middle of the water, you may have seen it on Instagram. The water level varies: sometimes you can walk halfway onto the platform, but often it’s completely submerged, and you’ll need to swim over it. During my last visit, the water was more than three meters above the platform.
Cenote Suytun in Valladolid, Mexico, is accessed via a slippery staircase. Life jackets are mandatory, which is actually great as it allows you to float effortlessly while taking in the surroundings. Do you want to visit Cenote Suytun? Here you’ll find combined tours, where you visit several cenotes in one day.
One of the best cenotes to swim in around Valladolid is Cenote Oxman. This cenote looks like the famous Ik Kil in shape but is smaller and less crowded. It has an open top, allowing sunlight to pour in while tree roots and vines cascade down the edges. What makes Oxman extra special is the rope swing you can use to splash into the water from the side. Cenote Oxman is located on the grounds of Hacienda San Lorenzo, where you can also enjoy lunch or take a dip in the pool after swimming.
Near Valladolid, you’ll also find the cenotes Xkeken and Samula, located on the same property and perfect to visit together. Both cenotes are mostly underground, with only small openings in the ceiling letting in beams of sunlight that give the water a magical blue-green glow.
One of my favorite cenotes at the moment is Yokdzonot, about a 30-minute drive from Valladolid. It’s much quieter here compared to the other cenotes mentioned. The water is clear and refreshing, and the cenote, surrounded by lush greenery, has an open top allowing beautiful sunlight to shine inside. Cenote Yokdzonot is one of the things you really want to do if you’re traveling to or from Valladolid.
Valladolid is a perfect base to explore some of the most impressive sights in Yucatán, Mexico. The surrounding region offers countless things to do and attractions, from visiting stunning cenotes to discovering ancient archaeological sites on day tours from Valladolid. Traveling through the area? These tips also work perfectly as inspiration for your next stop on a Mexico itinerary.
One of the famous things to do in Valladolid in Mexico, is to visit the archaeological site of Chichén Itzá. Chichén Itzá is an ancient Maya city and currently listed as one of the wonders of the world.
The temple of Kukulchan (El Castillo) is probably one of the most photographed buildings in the region. It is a perfect pyramid, consisting of 4 stairs with 91 steps each, which are equal to the number of days of the solstice. Every moment of the day the light is different. You will also be able to observe the largest ball court from the former Mayan empire, an ancient cenote that the Mayans used for their rituals, an area with 1,000 identical columns and an ancient observatory.
If you’re planning to visit this wonder of the world from Valladolid, here are my tips: arrive at Chichén Itzá right when it opens at 8:00 AM. This way, you can explore the site before the market stalls are fully set up and ahead of the tour buses that typically arrive between 10:00 and 10:30 AM. Also make sure, to book an early access ticket to skip the lines. If you’re interested in a guided tour to delve deeper into the history, there are several options available that include transportation here. From Valladolid, it’s a 45-minute drive to Chichén Itzá. Curious about more Maya ruins in Mexico? In the next article, I share my favorite Maya temples across the country.
Looking for a quieter alternative to Chichén Itzá? Then visit the ruins of Ek Balam. Ek Balam, which means Black Jaguar, is located just a 30-minute drive from Valladolid. There are 45 remains of structures, the most impressive being the 32-meter-high Acropolis. It is the tranquility that makes a visit so impressive because you can really soak up the spirits of the former Mayan city.
Do you want to visit Ek Balam from Valladolid? This is an interesting tour. Do you want to visit both Ek Balam and Chichen Itza? Then this could be an interesting tour.
Only 20 minutes away from Valladolid in Mexico, you will find one of the cutest little churches: The church of Uayma, all in pink with numerous decorations. If you’re traveling by car from Valladolid towards Mérida or vice versa, make sure to stop here for a picture. After Uayma there are more sleepy villages with small churches in different colors.
If you are in Valladolid and you have time to travel north, visit Izamal – the yellow city of Mexico. And this name is entirely appropriate, as the center of the city is painted completely yellow. It is unclear what the exact reasons for the yellow colors exactly are, but it is one of the scenic places to visit around Valladolid in Mexico for sure. Walk through the yellow center, visit the yellow monastery and climb the remains of ancient pyramids. Don’t forget to plan a delicious lunch at Kinich. Izamal can be visited within 1.5 hours from Valladolid. Curious? the next article you will find my tips for things to do in Izamal.
Do you want to visit Izamal along with Valladolid en Chichen Itza? Check out this tour. Looking for more tours around Valladolid? Have a look here.
What to do in Valldolid in Mexico when you are looking for a place to stay? Valladolid has numerous great hotels around the plaza or in calle de Los Frailes. These are my tips for the best hotels in Valladolid Mexico.
Casa Tia Micha is a nice place, located in the center of Valladolid. It is a colonial building with a large courtyard. The rooms are spacious, with high ceilings and decorated in colonial style. Very comfortable and affordable. Moreover, the staff is nice and does everything to make your stay as pleasant as possible. Opposite and to the right of the hotel you can park for free.
Learn more about the latest prices and availability for Casa Tia Micha in Valladolid.
Are you looking for a bit more luxury? Then take a look at Le Muuch Boutique Hotel, a small-scale boutique hotel in the center of Valladolid. There are 21 rooms in different categories, surrounded by lots of greenery, a nice outdoor swimming pool and a restaurant. And everything is beautifully decorated in Mexican style. Highly recommended!
Learn more about the latest prices and availability for Le Muuch Boutique Hotel in Valladolid.
Do you want to spend the night in a unique, stylish and luxurious place? Then Coqui Coqui Meson de Malleville or La Perfumeria is going to be your dream destination in Valladolid. The latter is located in the same colonial building as the Coqui Coqui Farmacia. An indescribably beautiful place, for wich you maybe need to save some money for. But believe me, you won’t regret it. It is important to book in time. There is only 1 room available.
Looking for a nice place to stay in Valladolid? Learn more about Valladolid Mexico hotels here.
Curious about more things to do in Valladolid Mexico? Check out more tours here.
TresvanBien, (three go well), I immediately liked the name and when I heard it was an Argentine restaurant, I had to go there. In this lovely place you can get the perfect Argentine empanadas (filled dough rolls with whatever you desire), crepes and fresh juices. Take a seat in the courtyard or in the nicely decorated cafeteria. Try to get a spot by the open door between the plants, so you have a nice view of the street.
Another nice place is Yerbabuena de Sisal, located on the plaza opposite the Convento San Bernardino di Siena. In the courtyard there are several wooden tables with colored chairs and ditto tablecloths. The menu consists of Mexican dishes with many vegetarian options and healthy juices.
To the left of the cathedral, on the plaza, you will find el Atrio del Mayab. At first it looks like a tourist hotspot but during my visit, there were only locals. If you walk all the way to the back you reach a nice courtyard overlooking the cathedral. Mexican cuisine takes center stage here and the dishes are delicious.
Valladolid is centrally located between some of the most beautiful travel destinations and attractions in Yucatán, making it easy to combine with a visit to Mérida, Tulum, Bacalar, or Isla Holbox. Personally, I always opt for renting a car when traveling through this region of Mexico, it gives you maximum flexibility. That being said, there are plenty of good reasons to choose public transport instead. If you prefer to travel by bus, shuttle service, or private driver, you can book your route through Bookaway. There you’ll find the most common and convenient travel options.
Need a rental car for your trip to Mexico? Use Rental Cars to search and compare your car rental options. A quick and easy tool and no need to have up multiple tabs trying to figure out which company is the most affordable. They also have great discounts and cancellation policies.
Most sights and things to do in Valladolid are within walking distance. Do you want to explore the surrounding attractions of Valladolid in Mexico? Then it is best to rent a car or book a tour.
Valladolid is perfect for a stay of two to three days, giving you enough time to explore the city and discover the many things to do in the surroundings such as the famous Maya ruins and cenotes.
Curious about how to include Valladolid in your trip through Mexico? In the next article, you’ll find my tips for a three-week journey through Mexico that takes you from Mexico City all the way to the Yucatán Peninsula.
Did you enjoy reading this guide with tips for what to do in Valladolid in Mexico? Looking for more tips and inspiration? In the next articles you can discover more about beautiful Mexico:
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Are you interested in the world? Do you want to learn more about a country and its culture? Let me take you on a journey with Passport the World.
As a travel reporter, producer and tour guide, I have been traveling around the world for the last 20 years, looking for the most scenic places and stories that are worth sharing. In Passport the World, I am guiding you along scenic and cultural places, cities, art, viewpoints, hiking trails and unique experiences. To help you get the most out of your travels or to just get to know a country and culture better!
Are you interested in the world? Do you want to learn more about a country and its culture? Let me take you on a journey with Passport the World.
As a travel reporter, producer and tour guide, I have been traveling around the world for the last 20 years, looking for the most scenic places and stories that are worth sharing. In Passport the World, I am guiding you along scenic and cultural places, cities, art, viewpoints, hiking trails and unique experiences. To help you get the most out of your travels or to just get to know a country and culture better!
