Last Updated: January 3, 2024
After spending a few weeks in the Mexican Riviera, we were eager for a break, away from the bustling beaches and excited to explore one of Yucatan’s most picturesque cities, Valladolid, Mexico. We have been wanting for years to visit Valladolid, Mexico, so we had planned everything in advance on how to spend a day in Valladolid, Mexico.
There are many reasons why you should visit beautiful Valladolid and we’ll go through all of them in the article below. We will walk you through all the things that you should do in Valladolid, Mexico; where to eat, where to stay, and awesome must-see attractions that are located just a short drive away.
Here is how to spend a day in Valladolid Mexico.
HOW TO GET TO VALLADOLID, MEXICO
Valladolid is located 1 hour and 30 minutes from Tulum, 2 hours from Playa Del Carmen, and a little over 2 hours from Cancun Airport.
You can take the ADO bus from Cancun airport or from any of the other popular cities; Tulum, Playa del Carmen, Cancun downtown. However, the best way to get to Valladolid, Mexico is by renting a car; it is both cheap and convenient.
Another option to consider is getting to Valladolid by collectivo; these are minivans that operate from the biggest towns in Riviera Maya and they do routes to the most touristy destinations in Yucatan, Mexico.
WHERE TO STAY IN VALLADOLID, MEXICO
There are many charming haciendas to choose from in Valladolid, Mexico. What we love most about them is their vibrant decor and beautiful architecture. Another great thing about them is the fact that they are usually family-run and so a warm welcome is always guaranteed! So if you’re wondering “where to stay in Valladolid, Mexico”, then continue reading to find out some of the best hotels in the city.
Here are some of the best hotels in Valladolid, Mexico:
- El Meson del Marques – This is one of the most beautiful hotels in Valladolid Mexico. The impressive 17th century building is truly remarkable, the service is top-notch and the main restaurant serves the best food in town!
- Hotel Posada San Juan – This hotel is a fantastic choice if your standards allow nothing but luxury and comfort and you’ll looking for an authentic experience at the same time. This is one of the best hotels in Valladolid, Mexico.
- Casa Quetzal Boutique Hotel – This is a boutique hotel, perfect if you’re looking for a more personalized experience. It is a gorgeous house turned into a hotel, with a beautiful lush garden and well-appointed rooms. This hotel in Valladolid Mexico is perfect for couples and families alike!
WHAT TO SEE IN VALLADOLID, MEXICO
The main reason that most people visit Valladolid, Mexico is because it’s very close to a few very popular attractions; Chichen Itza and a number of noteworthy cenotes. While you can easily explore Valladolid in a day, we’d highly recommend that you stay at least two days. This way you’ll have enough time to visit the nearby attractions, as well as explore at your own pace all the awesome things that Valladolid town has to offer.
Here is what to see in and what to do in Valladolid Mexico:
#1 Chichen Itza
Don’t miss out on the opportunity to visit this remarkable UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can visit Chichen Itza with an organized tour or by yourself. There are many tour guides in Valladolid to choose from or you can ask your hotel to book one for you. Most of the hotels have an agreement with tour guides and they’ll be able to give you any information you need. If you’re renting a car, then you can simply drive to Chichen Itza. The entrance fee to Chichen Itza is $533 MXN ( roughly $26 American dollars) per person.
#2 Cenote Suytun
Cenote Suytun is possibly one of the most Instagrammable cenotes in Yucatan! It has an otherworldly beauty, unlike any other cenote we saw in Mexico. The cenote is located 10 minutes from Valladolid, Mexico and the entrance fee is $120 pesos (approximately $6 dollars).
The best time to visit cenote Suytun is between 11 am to 1 pm. That is when the sun rays pass through the opening on the top, creating a gorgeous light! With that said, that’s also when you should expect the largest crowd. That’s mainly because many like-minded visitors strive to take that perfect Instagram-worthy photo. If you want to avoid the crowds, then the best time to visit cenote Suytun is in the morning, as soon as it opens, at 9 am. In the afternoon is also a good option to visit. Most people avoid this time of the day as the sun starts slowly setting and the cave becomes quite dark which makes it less appealing for photos but perfect for a swim.
#3 Cenote Zaci
This is also a very popular cenote, great for swimming and cliff jumping! Cenote Zaci is the closest cenote to Valladolid, so much so that you can reach it in 10’ by foot. Due to its close proximity to the city, the cenote tends to get quite crowded. To avoid that, be sure to visit early in the morning (the cenote opens at 9 am) or late in the afternoon. If you don’t mind the crowds, then the best time to visit cenote Zaci is around noon. This is a great place to spend a few hours swimming or you can lay your towel on the edge and simply relax. The entrance fee to cenote Zaci is only $30 Mexican pesos (roughly $1.50 dollars).
#4 Wander along the Calzada de los Frailes
Don’t miss out on this picture-perfect street when you’re in Valladolid, Mexico! It was our favorite part of the city, so much so, that we ended up there both evenings during our stay in Valladolid. The street is lined with colorful colonial buildings. Most of them have been converted to cute coffee shops, restaurants, and hip clothes stores. It is a small street but extremely photogenic. Be sure to take your camera with you so you don’t miss out on a few awesome spots for Insta-worthy photos.
#5 Visit the Convento de San Bernardino de Siena
The construction of this remarkable building started in 1552, making this one of the oldest colonial buildings in the entire Yucatan peninsula. Our advice is to take a guided tour for your chance to learn more about its history, the beautiful architecture, and the unique interior decorations.
WHERE TO EAT IN VALLADOLID, MEXICO
Needless to say that we loved the food everywhere in Mexico and Valladolid was yet another place that did not disappoint! We tried a few restaurants in Valladolid Mexico during our visit and we’re super excited to share our favorite ones with you.
Here are the top recommendations if you’re looking for Valladolid, Mexico restaurants that won’t disappoint.
- Nena Nena – A garage converted into an eatery, serving yummy Mexican dishes, with a twist. Also, a great option if you’re on a budget!
- LE’ Kaat – A great restaurant if your a vegetarian or a vegan. The cute garden is a huge plus!
- Cafe del Profesor Pitagoras – Whether you’re a digital nomad or you’re visiting Valladolid Mexico on business who’s looking for fast wifi and a cosy place to work from, then this is the ultimate place for you. Not only this coffee shop is super charming but also the food is incredible.
- El Meson del Marques – As mentioned above, El Meson del Marques is a hotel but their amazing restaurant also accepts walk-in guests. If you’re looking for a great place to have breakfast, then here you’re guaranteed to find your fix.
- Yerbabuena del Sisal – A charming restaurant with indoor and outdoor sitting space, serving local and international dishes. This is also a great place to have a coffee and a cake or enjoy a nice breakfast.
A FEW MORE THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE YOU VISIT VALLADOLID, MEXICO
IS VALLADOLID, MEXICO SAFE?
We spent 2 days in Valladolid and we encountered nothing but a warm and genuine welcome wherever we went. So, whenever we’re asked the question “is Valladolid, Mexico safe?” our reply is YES! As always, you need to practice common sense and avoid walking late at night alone, especially in neighborhoods that are further away from the city center. Also, be sure to leave any valuables at your hotel. Better safe than sorry!
