In the Mexican state of Yucatan, Valladolid is a hidden treasure waiting to be explored. With thousands of cenotes, the famous Chichen Itza archaeological site, and authentic Mayan culture and history, this city has a lot to offer. While tourists often only stay for a day or two, Valladolid is worth a longer visit.
In this blog post, we’ll cover the top things to do in Valladolid, including visiting cenotes, the San Bernardo Convent, witnessing the nightly traditional dance performance, touring Chichen Itza, and more. We’ll also provide information on how to get to Valladolid, so you can start planning your trip today.
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About Valladolid Mexico
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Valladolid is situated in the Mexican state of Yucatan, which is well-known for its natural beauty, thousands of cenotes, and the famous Chichen Itza archaeological site. It’s a magnificent hidden treasure deep in Mexico’s Yucatan Forest.
The majority of tourists that visit Valladolid only stay for a day or two, but it is unquestionably worth spending a few more days there. There are a few compelling reasons for making the journey to Valladolid, Mexico.
Off the beaten path is a very accurate way to describe Valladolid. With that said, it gives you the chance to learn more about genuine Mayan culture and history, which can’t be readily found in destinations that get a high level of tourism, like Cancun and Tulum.
Many activities are available in this city, from strolling through its vibrant streets to visiting the cenotes of Valladolid and engaging yourself in Mayan culture and history. If you’re looking for something for everyone, you’ll find it in this city.
Things to Do at Valladolid Mexico
Cool Off in Valladolid’s Cenotes
Come and cool down in Valladolid’s cenotes. There are about 6,000 cenotes in Yucatan, making it the greatest concentration of cenotes found anyplace on the planet.
Some of them are fully above ground, such as a swimming pool, while others are partly covered by a limestone rock roof above them, and yet others are situated underground, such as cave systems.
Visit the Convent of San Bernardo
The San Bernardo Convent is within the price range of just a few dollars to visit, so you should definitely try to pay a visit to it. When you arrive, you’ll have a pleasant stroll along cobblestone streets, and if you arrive around lunchtime, you may discover that you have the whole area to yourself.
Alternatively, you may opt to enter the covenant and learn more about it. Also, there is a small museum that explores the study of cenotes and the objects found in them, as well as a museum dedicated to cenote flora and fauna located outside.
Witness the Nightly Traditional Dance Performance
Walk to the main plaza in the center of town at around 5:30 PM on a weekday to see the nightly traditional dance performance called Jarana, which is a traditional dance of the Yucatan. The size of the audience is small, but the performances are unexpectedly great.
Pay a Visit to Chichen Itza
Visiting Chichen Itza is unquestionably one of the most popular things to do in Valladolid Mexico, and it is easy to understand why. After all, this magnificent complex of Mayan ruins has been designated as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, a title that is well-deserved. Loads of tourist buses transport thousands of tourists from Playa del Carmen, Tulum, and Cancun to Valladolid Mexico.
Stop by the Main Square fountain for lunch
In the heart of Valladolid is a main square that serves as a nexus for tour buses. On one side of the plaza is a small public park, which is a tourist delight. There is also a modest white fountain, which isn’t very spectacular but contributes to the romantic ambiance of the little square. You can even enjoy an ice cream cone with a loved one as you rest on one of the benches.
Admire the Iglesia de San Servicio
The most recognized feature of the attractions in Valladolid is the towering Iglesia de San Servicio, which is also known as the Cathedral of San Gervasio, and is situated just south of the main square. The Spaniards constructed this church on top of a destroyed Mayan pyramid, reusing parts of the pyramid’s stones.
Just be sure to see it both during the day and at night, since the views are quite different. Even though the cathedral continues to conduct regular services, when there isn’t one, you may walk inside and take in the exquisite details of the internal architecture.
Go On a Scooter Tour Around Valladolid Mexico
You may tour Valladolid and the surrounding region by scooter if you know how to ride one. The town is tiny and straightforward to navigate, with streets that are generally safe by Mexican standards.
Museo San Roque Takes You Back in Time
San Roque Museum, on Valladolid’s Calle 41 between 38 and 40, is home to a modest but fascinating collection of historical artifacts tracing the city’s past and that of the neighboring Yucatan area. It has no fee associated with it, which makes it an excellent free activity to do in Valladolid.
Visit the Mercado Municipal
Visiting Valladolid Mexico, allows you to have an authentic Mexican experience. Nothing compares to exploring the colorful stalls at the Mercado Municipal in Valladolid. It has everything from vegetable sellers to butcher shops to handicrafts. Simply walking about the market and taking in the colors and scents is an excellent way to feel the spirit of Valladolid, even if you don’t intend to purchase anything.
How to Get to Valladolid Mexico
The easiest way to travel to Valladolid from Mexico City is by the ADO bus. The trip is inexpensive and pleasant. As for bus schedules, you may check the ADO’s website, but you can’t buy your tickets online without having a Mexican credit card with you.
Another option to travel around is to rent a car in Mexico for a few days and travel to Valladolid, which gives you access to the other Mexican coastal destinations.
Valladolid is easily accessible by vehicle from Playa del Carmen, Tulum, and Cancun. It is possible to use either the highway (Cuota) or the state road from Cancun (LIBRE). Valladolid may be reached by bus from Tulum, Playa del Carmen, or Cancun.
Where to Stay at Valladolid Mexico
In Valladolid Mexico, you’ll find a wide variety of hotels that cater to a wide range of styles and budgets.
Luxury
- Le Muuch Boutique Hotel-A modern establishment with a lot of flairs. It even includes a hammock over the pool and a chic bar. Click here for more info.
- Hotel Zenti’k Project – This is a unique hotel with a boho chic vibe that will feel similar to those seen in Tulum. The private subterranean saline cave pool is the main draw for most visitors. Click here for more info.
Mid-Range
- El Meson de Marques — Just north of the main square, this excellent hotel with a “local flavor” is one of the most popular places to stay in Valladolid. You’ll like the cathedral’s rooftop vistas. Click here for more info.
- Hotel Posada San Juan– This top-rated hotel in Valladolid has a stunning pool in the courtyard of this restored colonial house. Click here for more info.
Budget
- Hostel Tunich Naj– One of the most popular hostels in Valladolid Mexico is a colorful hostel that serves breakfast and has some excellent communal areas for hanging out. Click here for more info.
- Candelaria Hostel – Hostel Candelaria is a fantastic location to meet new people when backpacking in Valladolid, thanks to its friendly staff and spacious communal spaces. Click here for more info.
- Quinta Marciala Hotel – A fantastic, locally-owned, affordable hotel ideal for families or couples. Only a few blocks from downtown Valladolid. There is a lovely courtyard as well as a small swimming pool. Click here for more info.
The Best Time of Year to Visit Valladolid Mexico
Valladolid has tropical weather all year. As a result, it is an excellent year-round destination to visit. However, if you want to make the most of your stay in Valladolid, the months of November to March/April are the ideal times to visit. These months provide the greatest opportunities for travel and sightseeing due to the mild weather.
May through July are the warmest months of the year. The average temperature is 37 degrees Celsius (97 degrees Fahrenheit), so it is best to avoid Valladolid in the summer if possible.
If you want to escape the rain, mid-December is the ideal time to visit Valladolid. On the other hand, the probability of rain increases in August, particularly in the latter half of the month.
Wrapping Up
Valladolid, Mexico is a hidden gem that offers a plethora of activities and attractions for tourists who are looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure. With its vibrant streets, magnificent cenotes, rich Mayan history and culture, stunning architecture, and charming local markets, there is something for everyone in this city.
Whether you’re interested in exploring the ancient Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza, cooling off in a refreshing cenote, or admiring the stunning Iglesia de San Servicio, Valladolid has it all.
So, if you’re planning a trip to Mexico, make sure to put Valladolid on your list and experience the beauty and culture of this hidden treasure for yourself.