Valladolid

With its grand historic buildings, majestic churches and celebrated gastronomy, it’s easy to see why Valladolid has been touted as one of Mexico’s ‘Pueblos Mágicos’ (Magic Villages’). The beautifully preserved Spanish colonial city makes a strategic base for exploring the Yucatan peninsula, close to top sights like Chichén Itzá, Cancun and Rio Lagartos, but there’s also plenty to see and do in Valladolid itself.
Start your walking tour at the central Parque Fransisco Canton Rosado, from where it’s an easy walk to landmarks like the 16th century Cathedral of San Gervasio, the Avenue of the Friars and the San Bernardino de Siena Convent, then head to the lively municipal market to shop for traditional crafts and tuck into local specialties like Lomitos, smoked sausage and Cochinita Pibil. Additional highlights include the San Roque Museum, the Casa de los Venados and the nearby cenotes of Zaci, Xkeken, Samula and Suytun.

Practical Info

Valladolid is located between Merida and Tulum on Mexico’s Yucatan peninsula.