9 Great Reasons to Visit Valladolid, Mexico
We’ve visited Valladolid several times, while we’ve been in the Yucatan. It’s an easy trip from Merida. It’s an enchanting city in the eastern part of the Yucatan Peninsula. We’ve always found many fun reasons to visit Valladolid and will share those with you in this blog.
There are probably two main reasons you are visiting Valladolid – one is you are on a coach trip from Chichen Itza and this is a short stopover. The other is, like us. it’s a day trip and you want to see as much as possible.
We’ve got you covered either way – read on to find out how to get the best of your trip to Valladolid – whether you’re here for an hour or for a day.
If you can visit Valladolid for 2 days, you’ll get much more from your time in the city. We thoroughly enjoyed such a longer trip and went away knowing there was still more to do.
The city offers a wide array of activities and attractions for you to enjoy. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or simply exploring the beautiful surroundings, there is something for everyone in this vibrant city. And it’s a great starting point for some awesome day trips!
If you are renting a car, a day trip from Cancun to Valladolid or from Merida to Valladolid is easy. It is about a 2-hour drive along good roads from either city and roughly 100 miles (160km) from both.
What is there to do in Valladolid? Lots! So, read on so you don’t miss a thing…
1. Parque Principal Francisco Cantón Rosado
Whether you’re driving or on a coach trip, it’s more than likely your first stop when visiting Valladolid will be the main square. This is known as Parque Principal Francisco Cantón Rosado.
It’s the bustling heart of Valladolid, with all the charm one finds in the center of every Mexican city. It’s dominated by the Iglesia de San Servacio.
The centerpiece of Parque Principal is undoubtedly its stunning gazebo, where live music often fills the air during special events or cultural celebrations.
The Parque is popular with tourists and locals alike and it’s a great place to ‘people watch’, with many benches and food stalls. We’ve found this a good time to indulge in authentic Mexican snacks like elotes (grilled corn) or delicious churros dusted with cinnamon sugar.
One thing that we didn’t like was the tourist coaches. At drop off and pick up time, one side of the square is lined with tour coaches from Riviera Maya. The sidewalk is packed with tourists looking for their coach and we tried not to be in the square at these times so we could avoid the chaos.
Parque Principal Francisco Cantón Rosado truly comes alive at night. The trees are adorned with twinkling lights, casting a magical glow over everything around them. This is when friends and families gather. The atmosphere is worth staying the night for!
Another reason to stay overnight is the traditional Jarana dance exhibition in the square most evenings.
2. Dig into the history of Iglesia de San Servacio
The Iglesia de San Servacio is a magnificent church and hard to miss when you’re in the Parque Principal Francisco Cantón Rosado. With its stunning architecture and rich history, it is definitely worth a visit.
As you step inside the church, you can’t help but be awestruck by the grandeur of its interior. The high ceilings are adorned with intricate designs, there’s a beautifully carved wooden altarpiece and colorful stained-glass windows.
One interesting feature of this church is its bell tower, which offers panoramic views of Valladolid. If you have the energy, you can (allegedly) climb up to the top for a breathtaking vista that stretches across Valladolid and, due to the amazing flatness of the Yucatan topography – much further.
On March 24, 1545, Priest Francisco Hernandez constructed it on the southern side of the main square. In 1705, Bishop Pedro de los Rios Reyes ordered its demolition after the cathedral was desecrated in the so-called “Crime of Mayors”.
This was during an unsavory part of Valladolid’s history when a mob, led by the city mayors, stormed the building. The frenzied group murdered a lawyer who had sought sanctuary by the altar.
In 1706, the church was restored. However, to prevent the altar of the new church from having the same position as the one that was desecrated, the church now faces towards the northwest. This is unusual, as most of the cathedrals in Yucatan face towards Rome.
3. Good reasons to visit Valladolid - Casa de los Venados
Casa de los Venados may look like a private home from the outside but it’s a showcase for an impressive collection of Mexican folk art that will leave you amazed.
As soon as you step foot into Casa de los Venados, you’ll see vibrant colors and intricate designs adorning every corner. The walls are arrayed with beautiful paintings, ceramics, textiles, and sculptures that represent the rich cultural heritage of Mexico.
It’s important to remember that this is a private home and not a museum.
There are normally five tours a day, with a guide, in either English or Spanish. They start at fixed times but check ahead as these tours get booked up quickly. Our group was 22 and we split into 2 groups, each with our own guide.
There are 5 main rooms to explore plus some other areas (the owner’s private rooms are not open to the public). Occasionally, if the owner has guests staying, some rooms are not open to the public.
The tours take between 45 minutes and an hour, depending on the size of the group and the number of questions you ask!
We enjoyed a tour that lasted over an hour – maybe asked too many questions? Our guide, Sergio, was patient and very informative.
There is no fixed cost. A minimum donation of MXN100 pesos is ‘requested’, which will go to some of the local charities. As you walk into one of the rooms, you can see copies of the many cheques that have been sent to these local charities.
The whole experience, for us, was one of the good reasons to visit Valladolid. It’s not expensive, it’s culturally rewarding and fascinating!
What is the origin of Casa de Los Venados?
The collectors, John and Dorothy Venator, were from the US and have been in Mexico for over 50 years. During that time, they accumulated a vast array of Mexican folk art. Initially, this was housed in their house in Cancun. However, as Cancun became more commercialized, the Venators searched for a quieter place that reflected a more authentic way of life – and they found Valladolid!
The current house, Casa de Los Venados, had been abandoned for 50 years. It took several years and a huge amount of hard work to bring it to the gorgeous condition it is now. Casa de Los Venados opened to the public in 2010.
Over more the thirteen years since opening, the owners of this incredible home have accumulated an extensive collection, consisting of over 3,000 pieces from various regions across Mexico. Some pieces come from their previous house and a few pieces are on loan from museums in Mexico City.
Each piece has its own story to tell and offers a glimpse into the traditions and beliefs of Mexican artisans. Mr. Venator has always been a strong supporter of local artisans, traveling the length and breadth of Mexico to find unique creations and artists.
(Sadly, Mrs. Venador passed away this year [2023]. Mr. Venator continues to live in the house and we were fortunate to meet this gracious and generous man.)
Why is the house called Casa de Los Venados?
Why Casa de Los Venados? There are two reasons. The first is a clever play of words – the owners’ surname is Venator – which is close to the Spanish word Venados, which means deer.
The second is that the deer has a special meaning to the Mayans of the Yucatan. Some towns even have the Mayan word for deer in their name.
The Collection at Casa de Los Venados
Bear in mind, that this is a collection of Mexican folk art – not antiques or archaeological relics.
Apparently, this award-winning colonial mansion houses the largest collection of museum-quality Mexican folk art in private hands. If you love art, especially this type of art, then this Casa is one the best reasons to visit Valladolid.
Despite being a collection from across the country, many of the pieces on display were created by contemporary local artists, many at the request of Mr. Venator. These skilled artisans continue the traditional techniques passed down through generations. New items arrive every week!
Sergio told us that cleaning and dusting the collection is a major undertaking – and not without a few breakages. Visitors, especially when there are large groups in the smaller rooms with limited space, are occasionally responsible for the odd broken item. All damage is quickly repaired!
Is a visit to Casa de Los Venados worth it? Absolutely. We had a great time. Our guide was great. And there are remarkable things to see. We’ve lived in the Yucatan for four years and learned many new things!
4. Fascinating and Photogenic Calzada de los Frailes
When visiting Valladolid, one of our favorite walks is along Calzada de los Frailes. It is barely a third of a mile (500m) long but it’s one of the fascinating reasons to visit Valladolid. Calzada de los Frailes is easy to find off the main square. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore!
This historic site offers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the region, with its well-preserved colonial architecture and charming atmosphere.
As you explore Calzada de los Frailes, take a moment to admire the intricate details of the buildings. The craftsmanship and attention to detail are truly remarkable, showcasing the skill and talent of those who built them centuries ago.
Another interesting aspect of Calzada de los Frailes is its connection to religious history. Many of these buildings were originally used by monks as living quarters or places for worship. Today, they serve as reminders of Valladolid’s spiritual past and offer visitors a chance to reflect on their own beliefs.
There are shops, cafes, and restaurants along Calzada de los Frailes. Mix those in with the colors and architecture and you will have a fascinating and photogenic walk!
While walking along this fascinating street look out for Fabrica de Chocolate Cacao. Here you’ll get a free tour and learn about Mayan chocolate. You’ll also be able to find out what ‘real’ chocolate tastes like.
5. Ex Convento of San Bernardino da Siena
San Bernardinos of Siena is a hidden gem in the heart of Valladolid. It’s at the far end of Calzada de los Frailes in Parque Sisal, so tends to be slightly out of the range of those on the tour buses. In reality, it’s not far to walk from the main square.
Construction on this religious building started in 1552. The stunning architecture says a lot about the work that went into building it, albeit a bit tired in places. But then after nearly 500 years, why not?
The interior of San Bernardinos of Siena is adorned with beautiful frescoes and intricate carvings. The craftsmanship is quite remarkable and speaks to the skill and dedication of those who built this magnificent structure.
If you have an interest in history or architecture, visiting San Bernardinos should be at the top of your list when exploring Valladolid. It offers a glimpse into Mexico’s colonial past and serves as a reminder of the rich cultural heritage that thrives here.
If you can stay overnight, don’t miss the free sound and light show displayed on the front of the old convent buildings. There’s an English version at 9.30 pm (but check the times as things do change here). We enjoyed it, with the bright video mapping and history. We thought it was 20 minutes well spent!
Just behind Parque Sisal are several good places for a drink or a late-night snack.
6. Good reasons to visit Valladolid - Great Food!
Valladolid offers great and, in many cases, unique eating opportunities. The Yucatan cuisine found here blends Mayan flavors with Spanish and Caribbean influences, creating a mouthwatering fusion of dishes.
Being a major city in the Yucatan, it’s no surprise that Yucatan specialties feature large on the menu. One such delicacy in Valladolid is the famous cochinita pibil, which consists of slow-cooked pork marinated in citrus juices and spices. This tender and flavorful dish is traditionally wrapped in banana leaves and cooked underground for hours, resulting in a succulent explosion of flavors.
Another favorite among locals and visitors alike is poc chuc – grilled pork marinated with sour orange juice, garlic, and other aromatic spices. Served with pickled onions and tortillas, this dish offers a perfect balance between tangy and savory.
Still on the Yucatecan theme, you can try the traditional sopa de lima (lime soup).
Being equally close to the coasts of the Caribbean and Gulf of Mexico, the seafood is freshly brought in from the nearby Yucatan Peninsula waters. That gives you the chance to indulge in delicious ceviche. These are made with locally sourced fish or shrimp cured in lime juice, which effectively ‘cooks’ them. These are topped off and mixed with diced tomatoes, onions, and cilantro.
If you’re foodie, the exciting range of local and international food on their own, are great reasons to visit Valladolid. If you’re looking for cuisine from outside Mexico, Valladolid has international fare to choose from.
Our choices for eating in Valladolid
Overall, around the main plaza, you’re spoilt for choice. The prices range from reasonable to overly priced. Given the large volume of tourists dropped off for an hour by coaches going to and from Chichen Itza, it’s hardly surprising that any restaurant or café near the plaza will increase their prices accordingly.
Around the plaza, we found one place asking MXN90 for a standard lemonade drink, which would normally cost around MXN40 to MXN55 even in a touristy area (and far less away from such places).
However, if you’ve only got an hour or so and you want food and drink, you are limited. But there are still great choices.
Here are our favorite places to grab a bite or a drink when we visit Valladolid. They are all within easy walking distance from the main plaza:
Restaurante Paparazzi
We enjoyed great pizzas and pasta at Restaurante Paparazzi, which is located near the start of Calzada de los Frailes. The food is great and the atmosphere is worth coming back for. The prices are pretty good for the amazing quality of the food.
There was live music when we’ve been there at night but it’s not obtrusive.
El Atria del Mayab
This is on the plaza and ordinarily we would skip somewhere so close to the coach drop-off points. However, we first went there 7 years ago and enjoyed the atmosphere in the garden at the back. We revisited it this month and the atmosphere in the garden is still great.
The price of the food is higher than you might pay if you walked away from the plaza but if you’ve had enough walking at Chichen Itza and just want to sit and have a drink, this might be the right place. I had a Sol at MXN65, which is not cheap but good compared with MXN90 along the Riviera Maya. The soft drinks were ‘sensibly’ priced.
Onza Rooftop Cafe
A favorite café of ours, Onza Rooftop Café, was discovered on the way to the Sound and Light show at the Ex Convento of San Bernardino da Siena. It was getting late and we wanted somewhere different to stop. Sitting on the top of the café, enjoying the breeze and the lights on the road below was a great experience. The fairy lights add to the atmosphere! And so did the good coffee! We’ve been back several times since for their coffee and cakes. The Fetta Salad was a big helping and, I’m told, very tasty!
The café is about halfway down the Calzada de los Frailes.
Colonte Hotel Origin
This was a great find, purely by accident as it was across the road from where we eventually found parking. This is a 4-star hotel, with a high 9 rating on Booking.com. It’s located about 200 yards down in Calle 46, which is right at the start of Calzada de los Frailes, so an easy walk from the plaza.
When we went in, we expected the prices to be high but were surprised at how reasonable they were. For example, I had an excellent Fettucini House (cheeses, cream, bacon and ham, etc) for MXN165. It was a good helping and tasty. Others had the Spicy Arrabiata, a Pizzetta, and the Tempura with salmon. Everyone was delighted with their choices.
The garden, where we are, was pleasant and quiet. We’ll definitely return!
7. Explore the smells and atmosphere of the Mercado Municipal
If you like the buzz, atmosphere, and smells of local markets, then you should walk across to the Mercado Municipal. This bustling market offers a true taste of local life and is a feast for the senses. As you step inside, you’ll be greeted by vibrant colors, enticing aromas, and the lively chatter of vendors.
The market is divided into sections, each offering its unique products. From fresh fruits and vegetables to spices and herbs, there’s no shortage of delicious ingredients to explore. You can also find an array of traditional Yucatecan handicrafts such as woven textiles, pottery, and hammocks.
As you wander through the maze-like aisles, you can enjoy some mouthwatering street food. If you’re not used to this type of food, it can seem a bit daunting, so stick to safe options like tacos al pastor. The base of the al pastor is tasty seasoned pork, thinly sliced off a slowly rotating spit cooked in front of a prominent flame, and served with chunks of pineapple.
Bargaining is common practice at Mercado Municipal, so don’t be shy about haggling with friendly vendors who are always ready for a good-natured banter.
On it’s own it’s probably not one of the great reasons to visit Valladolid. But if you’re searching for authentic souvenirs or simply want to immerse yourself in the local culture, Mercado Municipal in Valladolid is good fun and a great way to spend an hour or two.
8. Four of the best cenotes in and near Valladolid
Aside from its many cultural and culinary attractions, Valladolid is well-known as a center to explore cenotes. It may not have the large number found near Homun on the Ring of Cenotes but there are ample to satisfy the cenote enthusiast. These alone are good reasons to visit Valladolid.
You can find out more about cenotes if you click this link.
Cenotes are natural sinkholes that can be above-ground, in caverns with an opening in the roof, or completely underground. Each type offers a unique experience. You can swim, snorkel and even scuba dive in cenotes – and have great fun doing so!
Here’s a list of the four best cenotes if you’re visiting Valladolid. The great news is these cenotes are near Valladolid, making them easily accessible.
i Cenote Zaci
Located right in Valladolid’s town center, Cenote Zaci offers easy access and stunning beauty. Swim in its refreshing waters or simply relax on its rocky ledges while taking in the breathtaking surroundings.
ii Samula Cenote
Another must-visit cenote near Valladolid is Samula Cenote, only 4.2 miles (6.8km) away. As you descend into this underground pool through a narrow staircase surrounded by tree roots reaching down from above, you’ll feel like you’ve entered another world.
iii Xkeken Cenote
Situated near Samula Cenote is Xkeken Cenote – an awe-inspiring wonder hidden within a cave-like structure covered with vines and foliage. Its crystal-clear water is great for a refreshing swim or snorkeling.
iv Ik Kil Cenote
A slightly longer drive from Valladolid at 25 miles (40km) lies Ik Kil Cenote, which is often referred to as “the Sacred Blue Cenote.” This enormous cenote features lush vegetation cascading down its 80-foot (25m) walls.
This is the cenote that features on so many posters and photos. It’s often included in a tour of Chichen Itza, which is only about 3 miles away. And consequently, it’s often crowded – but this is one of the cenotes that you must see if you get a chance as it’s so special.
9. Three Day trips from Valladolid
Valladolid is not only a destination in itself but also serves as a perfect base for exploring the surrounding attractions. There are several day trip options that you can consider during your visit to Valladolid.
i Mayan Ruins
One popular day trip is visiting the famous Chichen Itza ruins, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. This ancient Mayan city showcases remarkable architectural marvels such as El Castillo (the iconic pyramid), the Temple of Warriors, and the Great Ballcourt.
Exploring this UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of those can’t miss experiences because it’s so famous. It’s especially easy to do as it’s just a short ride to Chichen Itza from Valladolid. The ability to visit this iconic tourist attraction is one of the reasons to visit Valladolid.
Another must-visit site near Valladolid is Ek Balam. This archaeological site may not be as well-known but it offers a unique opportunity to climb up its main pyramid known as “The Acropolis.” From the top, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding jungle and other structures within Ek Balam.
If you’re visiting Chichen Itza – click here to find out how to really enjoy visiting Chichen Itza.
ii Rio Lagartos
We used Valladolid as a jump-off point when we went to Rio Lagartos Biosphere Reserve. During our visit, we had a fantastic time on a boat tour which took us through mangroves and saw an abundance of wildlife including flamingos, and various bird species. We even up close with a crocodile (Lesley said it was TOO close!)
If you go to Rio Lagartos, you shouldn’t miss Las Coloradas, which it’s mesmerizing pink salt flats. If the weather is sunny, they create an almost otherworldly landscape due to their high concentration of salt-loving bacteria.
iii Uayma Church
About 20 minutes from Valladolid is the small town of Uayma. The amazing Uayma church looks more like a cake than a church. The Uayma church was initially built in 1646 but was destroyed in the Caste War in 1863. In 1861, it was rebuilt with the express desire not to show any trace of Spanish influence. With the two-headed eagles and amazing coloring and patterns, the builders of the Uayma church succeeded remarkably well!
When is the best time to visit Valladolid?
The best time to visit Valladolid largely depends on your preferences and what you hope to experience during your trip. We’ve made several trips, at different times of the year, and enjoyed them but when the weather is hot, it can dampen the fun!
If you’re a fan of mild weather and fewer crowds, then the months of November through February are ideal. During this time, temperatures in Valladolid hover around the comfortable mid-70s Fahrenheit (mid-20s Celsius), making it perfect for exploring the town’s colorful streets and historical sites without breaking a sweat.
The weather and smaller crowds are good reasons to visit Valladolid during the cooler months.
Keep in mind that Valladolid can get quite hot during the summer months from June to September, with temperatures reaching into the 90s Fahrenheit (30s Celsius) or above. It rarely reaches the high temperatures of Merida (over 105F/40sC) but wandering along the beautiful Calzado de los Frailes in summer can quickly lose some of its charm!
On the other hand, if you don’t mind the heat and want to take advantage of lower hotel rates and smaller crowds, summer might be a good option for you.
Is Valladolid safe for tourists?
Understandably, safety is always a top concern for travelers. This charming city has a reputation for being safe and welcoming to tourists. We’ve never felt threatened in any way. With its low crime rate, visitors can explore the streets with peace of mind.
The same is true for most of the Yucatan and it’s another of the reasons to visit Valladolid.
The city’s central location means that there is a strong police presence in the area, ensuring safety for both locals and tourists alike. The friendly local community also plays a role in maintaining security by looking out for one another.
As with any destination, it’s important to use common sense precautions such as keeping an eye on your belongings and staying aware of your surroundings. Avoiding isolated areas at night is also recommended.
Don’t miss any chance you get to explore Valladolid
It’s one of our favorite cities in the Yucatan. With so much to offer in town and nearby, don’t miss any chance you get to visit colonial Valladolid and experience the history, culture, food, and people. And you can add a visit to a nearby cenote or Mayan ruin! What’s not to like?
David H
After spending months in places like Playa del Carmen and Ajijic (near Lake Chapala, Guadalajara), my family and I have been living for the past four years in the Yucatan and enjoying this fabulous part of Mexico.
I've written many travel blogs for other travel sites over the years before starting Wonky Compass. I have three books published on Amazon.
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