Valladolid is located in the southeast of the country, and it was added to the list of Magical Towns in 2012. Full of history, culture, and tradition, this destination will open a panorama to ancient Mexico and offers many amenities to travelers.
Also known as the “Sultan of the East“, Valladolid preserves the wealth left behind by the Spanish conquest, where its temples, streets, and buildings reflect beautiful architecture. Stroll through its neighborhoods and appreciate the vivid colors that characterize them. Here’s a complete guide to Valladolid in Yucatan, Mexico.
Visit the Main Square of Valladolid
The starting point to begin your journey in Valladolid is at the fountain “La Mestiza.” This beautiful park has restaurants, bars, and shops that provide you with a piece of the Mayan and Spanish fusion. At dusk, you can find a wide variety of food stalls with savory delicacies. We recommend you try the traditional marquesitas, an elongated sweet wafer with a crispy body. Sometimes, you can find dance shows or live music in a family atmosphere. Many street artists share their talent and artworks on this traditional site.
Church of San Servacio
In front of the town’s main square stands a majestic construction with two towers and, in the middle, a shield carved in stone. Its construction began in 1543 and is one of the most emblematic buildings of the city. Its interior shares similarities with other churches, but being there, you can see for your own what makes this historical site unique.
Municipal Palace
the Municipal Palace or City Hall is open to the public, and you can walk between its balconies overlooking the hustle and bustle of downtown Valladolid. You can take pictures and enjoy the peace that is preserved inside the historic building. It also has a collection of paintings and descriptions of the battles during the War of 1847.
Franciscan Convent of San Bernardino de Siena
It’s an impressive building that you can explore and enjoy what this convent has to offer. Located in the neighborhood of Sisal, it consists of a church, a chapel, and several buildings where the museum of the 1847 War mentioned above is situated. At night they have a light and sound show projected on the façade of the building, where they narrate part of the history and curious facts of Valladolid. This show is available from Tuesday to Sunday.
Cenote Zací
If you want to cool off from a hot day, you can visit cenote Zací that is located in midtown. The entrance fee is 30 pesos (USD 1.50), but if you buy food or drinks in its restaurant, you can access it for free. The address is Calle 36, between 39 and 37, in the neighborhood of Santa Ana. To get there, you can ask directions to the cenote, and the Mayan name “Zací” is pronounced “Sachí.”
Get to Know Some of Their Communities
If something characterizes the south of Mexico, it’s the customs preserved by its inhabitants. In some towns, you will find guided tours to explore different communities that enjoy sharing their traditions and lifestyle. You can also explore them on your own. The main recommendations are: Hidaldo Camp, Tres Reyes, Punta Laguna, Nuevo Durango and Xocen. Each one is unique and special.
For example, you can find natural landscapes and jungles, paths where the spider monkey lives, textile production, and much more. It’s always an interesting experience to meet dedicated and committed people to their communities and where you can appreciate their traditions.
How to get to Valladolid Yucatán?
This city is located 100 miles from Merida and 90 miles from Cancun, Quintana Roo. You can travel almost the same distance, depending on where you are. There is a network of roads that go across Valladolid, and you can also visit several points of interest that connect these tourist destinations. There are first-class transport companies that leave from the bus terminals, and you can buy your ticket in advance or arrive the same day and purchase it at the station. However, if it’s high season, we advise you to purchase tickets ahead of time.
Now that you have read about this wonderful city in the beautiful state of Yucatan, start planning your next trip to this Magical Town.
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