21 Best Things To Do In Valladolid, Yucatan That Are Unforgettable

Looking for the best things to do in Valladolid, Yucatan? In Valladolid the Mayan history and culture shine amidst the warm tropical jungles with an untouched and wild vibe about it.

Famous as one of Mexico’s Pueblo Magico (Magical Town), Valladolid is originally home of the ancient Mayan city of Zaci.

With its proximity between Cancun and Merida on the Yucatan Peninsula, Valladolid is many times skipped or overshadowed by its bigger neighbors.

But don’t let that deter you from visiting as this small colonial city is rich in experiences and adventure that make it worth staying a few days.

Valladolid also happens to be situated near a number of exciting day trips that are perfect for adding an additional day or two to your visit.

So, if you are searching for what to do in Valladolid, Mexico look no further as I share the top activities such as visiting Chichen Itza (Seven Wonders of the World) and swimming in cenotes.

Plus, you’ll find everything you need to know about how to get to Valladolid, where to stay, and what to eat!

Top Things To Do In Valladolid, Yucatan

1. Join A Free Valladolid Walking Tour

One of the best ways to get a feeling for a city and know how to get around is to take a walking tour.

Overall, there are not a lot of tours in the actual city of Valladolid but luckily there is a great walking tour option each day and it happens to be FREE!

The walking tour is every day at 10am, 5pm, & 7pm offered in both English and Spanish.

You can expect the tour to take between 2 – 3 hours and although FREE, make sure you tip your guide as they do an excellent job to share their city with you.

The tour will take you around the historic center with opportunities to see and learn about the main attractions in Valladolid.

Although Valladolid is very easy to navigate on your own, you will learn tons of interesting things about the history, culture, and food.

You’ll meet your guide in the main town plaza (Parque Francisco Canton Rosado), next to the Mestiza Fountain in the center.

It’s easy to see the guides as they will be holding red umbrellas. No need to make a reservation, just show up 5-10 minutes before the start time and join the group.

Tip: If you have any questions about sites or where to eat in Valladolid make sure to ask your guide as they are a wealth of knowledge and happy to help.

2. Parque Francisco Canton Rosado

Parque Francisco Canton Rosado is the main square or park in Valladolid in the heart of the city’s historic district.

It is also the hub for festivities, holidays, and gatherings for family and friends. As a visitor, it is a relaxing place to take a stroll and people watch.

During the day there are not a ton of people here, especially if it is hot but as sunset approaches, the park comes alive.

As the sun begins to set, you’ll notice each day like clockwork that tons of birds flying above the square and from tree to tree. It is a loud but beautiful sound to hear them talking to each other.

Around 5:30 pm every evening you can usually find local Mayan dancers in traditional dress which is a treat to see.

My favorite time to hang out in the park is after dinner to enjoy a tasty dessert from ice cream, churros, and marquesitas.

3. Kick Back In A Kissing Chair

What is a kissing chair you ask? And does it mean you’ll be kissing someone? Well, you definitely can!

The Kissing Chair is a set of two chairs attached and set up so that a couple is facing one another.

Given the name kissing chair these bright white chairs were originally formed by the upper elite in Europe during the French Renaissance.

They have also been referred to as “me and you” (tu y yo) chairs.

It is thought that this style of chair was designed by a father so his daughter and the man she was courting could talk yet not be touching.

In all honesty, they are super comfortable to sit in and so easy to talk to the person you are with.

I was quite surprised at their comfort given there is no padding. Regardless if you are with your lover or not, make sure you find an empty one, sit back, and enjoy everyday life in Valladolid.

The one place you’ll find several kissing chairs is in the central park in Valladolid, Parque Francisco Canton Rosado.

If you are continuing on to Merida, you see these unique chairs there too and in some random attractions throughout the Yucatan.

4. Enjoy A Traditional Yucatan Breakfast

Prior to my visit, I had no idea how delicious the breakfast dishes would be! At home I don’t usually eat breakfast but in Valladolid, breakfast was a treat.

Every region in Mexico I have been to, has had such diverse flavors and styles of cooking.

What makes this region stand out, is the combination of Mayan, Spanish, and Caribbean influence to form outstanding Yucatan cuisine.

If you have never visited the Yucatan, you might look at a menu and not be sure what to order.

All the dishes usually have eggs and such distinct Yucatan spices that you can’t really go wrong with what you get.

These are my favorite Yucatan breakfast dishes and although there were all rave worthy, the Huevos Motulenos is the one I had repeatedly!

• Huevos Motulenos
• Huevos Encamisadas
• Huevos Longaniza
• Huevos Divorciados

Of all the breakfast spots, two that you shouldn’t miss are Loncheria Olich and El Atrio Del Mayab (dinner is phenomenal here too).

If you want something just as delicious but with a modern and health conscious kick, eat at Carolin Cacao Café.

5. Iglesia de San Servacio

The main church at the center of the historic district of Valladolid is Iglesia de San Servacio or the Church of Saint Servacio.

Bordering the south side of Parque Francisco Canton Rosado, the church makes for perfect viewing from any spot in the park.

In fact, you can find more than a few kissing chairs to sit in and admire the colonial style cathedral.

The church you see today isn’t the original but still quite old as it was rebuilt in 1705.

With its two towers, it is a beautiful church from any angle and in my opinion much prettier than the interior, which is very simple in design.

Fun Fact: The front entrance to the church was originally east-facing as with other churches in the Yucatan but was changed to north facing to punish the locals for challenging colonial (royal) rule.

6. Casa de los Venados

Casa de los Venados translated as the “house of deer” is easily one of the coolest things to do in Valladolid.

Owned by an American couple (John Venator and his wife), who moved to Valladolid from Chicago over 20 years ago.

They were frequent visitors to Mexico and eventually decided to retire and make their home a literal work of art.

Today, the private home (18,000 sq ft) is open to the public for guided tours to view room after room of amazing and colorful artwork.

If I had to sum up Casa de los Venados it would be beautiful, unique, and eclectic.

John and his wife have collected over 3,000 pieces of Mexican artwork ranging from pottery, sculptures, paintings, and carvings representing every main region in Mexico for nearly 40 years.

It showcases their true love of Mexican art in a fantastic presentation. They have the most exquisite guest rooms for when family and friends visit almost like a personal apartment.

I only wish I was on their guest list!

John and his wife collected each piece of artwork themselves and in most cases had the opportunity to buy the art directly from the artists.

I especially enjoyed the Frida themed guest apartment and the pool area in the back which is a jaw dropper when you see it.

As of 2025, you are asked to make a donation of 100 pesos which you place into a box at the end of the tour.

Well worth the cost to see such an incredible display of art in a warm and well lived in space.

Tours: The guided tour is 1 hour and I highly recommend making an appointment ahead of time. Tours are on the hour, starting at 10:00 am until 1:00pm (last tour starts).

Donation cost: 100 pesos

7. Museo de San Roque

Just a block east from the main town square is Museo de San Roque, a small but charming museum to visit especially as it is free.

The location of the museum was once a hospital (late 1500s) and later becoming Convento de San Roque.

Today, the museum artifacts are housed in what used to be the convent temple that has various pieces of pottery, art, and displays. Some of the items come from nearby ruins such as Ek Balam.

Here you’ll find the Mayan and Spanish history intertwined with the modern era.

You’ll likely spend between 20 – 45 minutes but before you leave step into the courtyard and garden known as Parque de Heros.

Heroes Park is a peaceful area with benches under shady trees to sit if you need a break from the intense sun.

It is also the burial site for two former mayors that were killed during the Revolutionary War, hence its name to commemorate and remember the cost of fighting for freedom.

Hours: Open daily from 9:00 am to 9:00 pm

8. Take A Dip In Cenote Zaci

There are thousands of cenotes spanning across the Yucatan Peninsula with many open to the public.

Swimming in a cenote should be high on your Yucatan bucket list as it is such a unique and magical experience.

Cenotes are natural sinkholes filled with clear fresh water above a layer of salt water that can be fully enclosed like a cave, partially open to the sky, or enclosed with a hole at the top.

Cenote Zaci is visually stunning and one of the best cenotes in Valladolid.

Plus, it happens to be located in the center of Valladolid in walking distance from the main square, restaurants, and museums.

Before the Spanish conquered and colonized the region, the city wasn’t called Valladolid but known as the Mayan village of Zaci.

The Spanish destroyed Zaci and built their city above the Mayan ruins and why this cenote was given the name Cenote Zaci.

Cenote Zaci is open on one side and forms a cave like overhang on the inner portion. When I got my first view of the cenote, my jaw dropped as it is an impressive scene.

Once you pay at the entrance, you’ll walk down to a pathway that opens up with a complete view of the cenote.

There are two sides you can head down to access the water and if you aren’t afraid of heights jump into the water off of a cliff platform.

There is a security/lifeguard on duty in case anything goes wrong and to enforce life jackets in the swimming zone.

Cenote Hours: Open daily from 9:00 am to 5:30 pm.

Entrance Fee: Admission is 30 MXN (pesos) or about $1.50 and is CASH ONLY.

Note: There are bathrooms, changing rooms, and a restaurant (overlooking the cenote). No lockers, so don’t bring valuables.

9. Bite Into A Marquesita

What to do in Valladolid, Mexico in the evening? Make sure to leave room for a marquesita after your dinner!

A marquesita is an absolutely delicious dessert that you’ll only find in the Yucatan and one of the best street food items.

If you are only going to try one, I would recommend sampling a marquesita in Valladolid over Merida.

I just found them to be a little better in Valladolid and enjoyed getting this awesome street food every evening in the main town square.

If I’ve tempted your curiosity, a marquesita is a large crepe like dessert that is rolled resembling a massive taquito and filled with an assortment of items you choose.

I got one with Nutella spread, fresh strawberries, bananas, and shavings of salty delicious Edam cheese (Dutch).

The slight saltiness from the cheese married perfectly with the sweetness of the fruit and Nutella.

Unlike traditional crepes, these crepes are a light and airy wafer that adds just a touch of crunch with all the other ingredients.

Popular marquesita filling options:

• strawberries
• bananas
• cajeta
• jam
• Nutella
• chocolate
• Edam cheese (queso de bola)
• ham (if you want a savory one)
• cream cheese

And thank goodness they are so good as you’ll likely have to wait to enjoy it. I timed my wait and it took 1 hour before I reached the front of the line.

Was it worth it? Heck ya… The woman making them has help but can only make one at a time so patience is key.

Tip: She sets up around 5:30 pm so if you go earlier in the evening the line is shorter.

Cost: The price varies depending on how many items you get in the filling but the one I got was 80 pesos (~ $3.95). Range between 40 and 155 pesos.

10. Calzada de los Frailes

If there is one street you don’t want to miss walking down it would be Calzada de los Frailes (The Friars’ Causeway).

It is a long cobblestoned street running diagonal a few blocks from the main town square and ending at the Convent of San Bernardino de Siena in the Sisal neighborhood.

One stroll down it and its no surprise it has received the nickname as the “prettiest street in Valladolid”.

Hanging above you are a series of colorful flags fluttering in the wind and the cutest boutique like shops, restaurants, cafes, art galleries, and bars.

Each building is painted in pastel shades with beautiful design elements or art murals that draw you in adding to the charm.

At night Calzada de los Frailes is extra peaceful as it is opened up for pedestrians only and very romantic.

Tip: The street is about 500 meters (0.30 miles) and takes about 20 minutes to walk if you don’t stop anywhere along the way.

Stay: Want to spend a few nights on this dreamy street? Book at:

• Verde Morada Hotel Encuentro or
• Saastah Hotel Boutique

11. Valladolid Sign In Sisal Park

After you enjoy your stroll along Calzada de los Frailes, you’ll arrive at Sisal Park in front of Convent of San Bernardino de Siena.

It is here that you can see the giant letters spelling out “VALLADOLID” with the convent as the perfect backdrop.

Each letter is painted in vibrant colors with scenes of a Mayan warrior, a conquistador, church towers, wildlife, and a cenote all representing the life and history of the area.

The Valladolid letters are a fun photo opportunity and depending on when you go, there may be a wait as others get the iconic shot too.

Most of the time the park is rather quiet and a nice place to sit on a bench if you need a break.

Directly across the street from the letters are a few cute places to get a coffee, ice cream, or bite to eat.

At Los Frappes, there is an upstairs balcony with seating but I’d stick to just getting drinks and enjoying the view of the convent.

Stay: If you are looking for a nice hotel in this neighborhood, consider Los Frailes Concept Hotel just steps from Sisal Park.

Tip: The letters are also referred to as “Letras Valladolid”.

12. Convent of San Bernardino de Siena

The Convent of San Bernardino de Siena (Templo de San Bernardo) borders Sisal Park and the VALLADOLID letters.

It is a peaceful spot with a beautiful architectural exterior as the outer wall is pretty eye catching and changes from shades of brown to a golden color depending on the light hitting it.

Visitors can tour the convent at their own pace viewing art (frescoes), lovely archways, a courtyard, and a garden oasis in the back.

In addition, there is the chapel with its altarpiece that has an intricate beauty about it with its rose colored accents between wooden tableaus.

The convent was built between 1552 and 1560 when the Spanish colonized the area and basically built over Mayan temples and structures.

After the one in Izamal, Convent of San Bernardino de Siena is the 2^nd largest Franciscan convent in the Yucatan.

There is a small museum with photos and interesting displays sharing the history, construction, and findings when it was built.

Although you can’t directly see it, there is a large cenote underneath the domed structure in the garden area that was used to irrigate the gardens and supply water to the kitchen.

Hours: Open Monday – Saturday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, Sunday hours may vary or be closed depending on day.

13. Watch An Evening Mapping Show

One of the top things to do in Valladolid at night is to view an evening mapping show!

There are two different light mapping show options, one at Convent of San Bernardino de Siena and the other at Iglesia de San Servacio.

You want to visit both of these sites during the day but if you happen to be in Valladolid on the following nights, don’t miss the light shows.

As a bonus, the mapping shows are FREE for everyone and all year.

Convent of San Bernardino de Siena, Noches de la Heroica Valladolid

Nights & Time: Tuesday – Sunday with the show in Spanish at 9:00 pm and English at 9:25 pm.

Iglesia de San Servacio, Valladolid Through History

Nights & Time: Tuesday – Friday at 9:00 pm and Saturday at 9:20pm

They are both incredible to see but if you only have time for one, I would go to the Noches de la Heroica Valladolid at the Convent of San Bernardino de Siena.

It takes you on a visual journey when only the Mayans lived in the region spanning the history to the present.

A mesmerizing light show with bright colors and images projected onto the entire outside walls of the convent.

It showcases Valladolid’s history prior to the Spanish, the Spanish colonization, revolutions, and how the culture evolved to what it is today.

Plan to get there early as it does get packed and if you want a seat come about 30 minutes early.

Note: There are no official seats except sitting on a short wall ledge or on the grass.

The Valladolid Through History at Iglesia de San Servacio, will highlight the history of the ancient city of Zaci (what Valladolid was previously named) followed by a focus on the Mayan ruins of Ek Balam.

14. Sample Mouthwatering Cochinita Pibil

If you had to pick one food that the Yucatan is renowned for, it would be Cochinita Pibil.

Cochinita Pibil is the tastiest slow cooked shredded pork that is made with ancient Mayan traditions.

When I saw the labor of love that goes into making Cochinita Pibil I quickly had a whole new level of appreciation and understanding of why this tender pork is celebrated.

The literal translation is “pork cooked in a ground oven”. Pib is a Mayan word that means earth oven so you may hear locals refer to it as “pib”.

Magic Behind Cochinita Pibil

Making Cochinita Pibil is a slow process taking about from start to finish about 2 days. One day is to prep and marinate your meat and also digging a hole (pib).

Most Mayan families or restaurants will already have the pib dug as they can reuse it a number of times before needing to dig another.

Achiote paste is the key ingredient that goes into the marinade along with lime, salt, and sour oranges (Yucatan is known for).

The achiote paste gives the pork a reddish color made up of ground achiote seeds, garlic, cumin, coriander, oregano, and cloves with some juice of a sour orange.

Once the rocks or stones are hot from the burning fire, the pork is wrapped in banana leaves (in some type of container) and covered with greenery, then covered with soil and cooked overnight.

Or at least 8 hours with the time varying depending on the amount of meat being cooked.

The most popular way to enjoy it is in a taco!

Pieces of the cochinita pibil on a homemade corn tortilla, topped with pickled red onions and just a touch of the Yucatan habanero chile is priceless…

One bite and you will be blown away by the flavor!

I’ve heard stories that eating cochinita pibil has even converted vegetarians which doesn’t surprise me.

Another delicious way to savor the prized pork is in a torta (sandwich).

15. Visit The World Famous Chichen Itza

Even though there are several ancient ruins and pyramids in Mexico, Chichen Itza is the most famous with its UNESCO World Heritage Site status and as one of the 7 New Wonders of the World!

Chichen Itza’s is world renowned for its iconic pyramid tower known as El Castillo and well preserved structures throughout the archeological grounds.

Compared to other Mayan ruins in the region, it is in the best shape considering it is between 1,500 and 1,600 years old.

It’s hard to imagine that something could be built so well to withstand all the elements over the years.

Expect to spend 2.5 and 3 hours exploring the archeological complex but if you enjoy photography, you could easily stay 4 – 5 hours.

Although Chichen Itza is about 50 minutes away from Valladolid, it is the closest major city and an activity you can’t miss when visiting Valladolid.

For a complete guide on visiting Chichen Itza, when to visit, cost, and how to get there, see my post here.

READ MORE: A Complete Visitors Guide To Chichen Itza

16. Xkopek Bee Keeping Reserve

Xkopek Bee Keeping Reserve is a beekeeping park just 10 minutes south of downtown Valladolid and you can get there by driving or taking a taxi.

It is not only a fascinating tour to go on but beautiful grounds to walk through.

Did you know there is a special kind of indigenous bee that the Mayans are known for?

Melipona or the Mayan bee is a stingless bee that makes a delicious honey that has a more liquid consistency than a honey you might have in your cupboard at home.

The Mayans have used it for an assortment of daily items including food, medicine, lotions, and more.

These were the only species of bees in the Yucatan until the Europeans brought over other types that do have stingers and produce a different type of honey.

On the guided tour, you will get to learn all about the history of beekeeping in the Yucatan, the various types of bees, and view bees actively at work.

The beginning of the tour will take you down into a dry cenote where natural bee hives are found and end with a delicious honey tasting.

Tours last approximately 1.5 hours but if you get there early, you can explore the tiny bee museum or browse the gift shop with tons of honey products.

Get Your Xkopek Bee Keeping Tour Ticket!

17. Cenote Suytun

Another incredible cenote to visit is Cenote Suytun which is visually one of the most popular cenotes photographed from the Yucatan.

Just 15 minutes away by car, you can spend a few hours or all day here as there is a restaurant and a smaller cenote on the grounds in addition to Cenote Suytun.

Once you walk down the stairs and view Cenote Suytun, you’ll understand why it is so popular.

An enormous space in a cave with a small opening at the top allows sunlight to flow down particularly at midday.

Directly underneath the opening is a long stone platform that is perfect for taking photos on and is a stunning shot no matter the angle.

In the drier months, you can walk out and stand on the platform but if after a lot of rain, the water will be above the platform.

When I visited the water went to my waist but still made for an awesome photo as the water is so clear that you can easily see the platform.

Just make sure to shower and not be wearing sunscreen or lotions (this applies to any cenote). If you plan to swim in the cenote, you do need to wear a life jacket (included).

Hours: Open daily from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm (last entry at 4:00 pm).

Entrance Fee: 280 MXN (pesos) for adults and 230 MXN for kids ages 5 – 11.

Note: There are changing rooms, lockers (extra cost), and showers available.

18. Mercado Municipal

Compared to other cities in Mexico like Mexico City or Oaxaca’s markets, Valladolid has a pretty small one.

The bonus to being smaller is it is less intimidating and easy to get around.

It is the top place to get fresh produce, flowers, spices, street food, and see the items that locals use in their daily lives.

And don’t miss out on sampling aguas frescas from a variety of seasonal fruits.

It’s located about 5 blocks from the main central square or 1.5 blocks from Cenote Zaci.

You can get lunch here before or after swimming at Cenote Zaci and sample tacos, panuchos, tamales, or salbutes.

The market opens early at 6:00 am (close at 4:00 pm) and depending on the vendor, items can run out if you go later in the day.

19. Ancient Ruins Of Ek Balam

Although not as famous as Chichen Itza, don’t overlook visiting Ek Balam as it is just as magnificent.

Ek Balam (Black Jaguar) is an archeological site with ancient Mayan ruins about 30 minutes from Valladolid near the town of Temozon.

In comparison to Chichen Itza, Ek Balam doesn’t see a ton of visitors, making it a more peaceful experience to walk the complex.

As you are exploring the ruins you’ll notice that each building or pyramid is tucked within the lush jungle which adds to its allure.

The Mayan civilization at Ek Balam is estimated to date between 100 BC and 800 AD. Once a thriving and powerful Mayan city, it was abandoned for reasons no one is 100% sure of.

As you make your way to the furthest section of the park, you’ll see the mighty Acropolis.

It is the tallest structure at Ek Balam and if you don’t have a fear of heights attempt to climb the very steep steps 480 feet high!

Hours: Open daily from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm (last access is 4:00 pm).

Cost: There is a 100 MXN ticket and a Yucatan government ticket which is 461 MXN for foreigners totaling 561 MXN (~ $27 US dollars).

20. Sip Fresh Chaya Juice

If this is your first trip to the Yucatan, you have likely never tried or heard of Chaya. Native to the Yucatan Peninsula, chaya is a “Mayan tree spinach”.

A leafy vegetable that has been essential in the Mayan diet and continues to in the modern Yucatan cuisine.

Known for its health benefits such as helping with digestion, blood pressure, and filled with all sorts of nutrients.

When you look at the chaya leaf, it resembles the shape of a Maple leaf except completely green.

Locals will include chaya in soups, stews, egg dishes, tacos, in empanadas, or in freshly made chaya juice.

Although I liked the fresh chaya juice, I preferred the chaya con pina (chaya & pineapple). The pineapple adds a bit of sweetness that is perfect.

I ordered one each morning with breakfast as a refreshing start to the day.

Note: The chaya leaves must be cooked before ingesting as the leaves contain a toxic acid.

21. Dine In A Local Mayan Village

If you have the time and want to taste an unforgettable Mayan meal with local Mayans, consider booking a Yucatan culinary experience.

Not only will you get the chance to meet and speak with local Mayans in their village but you’ll get to see what foods they eat and how they are prepared.

There are several vegetables and fruits that you won’t find anywhere else or a slightly different version than what you may be familiar with.

At the center of any Yucatecan feast is the pork, slow roasted in the ground (cochinita pibil) or grilled (poc chuc).

Usually accompanied with black beans, rice, chayote, avocados, and freshly made tortillas you are in for an incredible meal.

Below are two incredible Mayan culinary experiences if you want to sample traditional Yucatan food at its finest.

Culinary Experience With Chef Rosalia Chay

Chichen Itza & Culinary Experience Day Trip  

Bonus: Ria Lagartos Biosphere Reserve & Las Coloradas

Although Ria Lagartos and Las Coloradas are a good distance from Valladolid, they are two places to visit when you are in Valladolid.

Why? Valladolid is the closest city to these sites and it will still be a long day trip.

Coming from any other city such as Cancun, Tulum, or Merida would in my opinion be too long of a day.

For more information about each of these beautiful locations, read:

Best Places To Visit Near Valladolid, Mexico

Ria Lagartos Biosphere is a UNESCO biosphere covering 150,000+ acres along the Caribbean Sea, much of which are lush mangroves.

The best way to explore is by boat with viewing of birds, flamingos, crocodiles, and more!

Book A Ria Lagartos Biosphere & Las Coloradas Tour!

Las Coloradas is famous for its gorgeous pink lakes! The lakes are real, no dye involved.

The shades of pink are a result of certain microorganisms and a high salt concentration.

It is a neat experience to view pink water as there are only a few places in the world that this phenomena can be seen.

Best Hotels In Valladolid, Mexico

Each of these hotels are perfectly located centrally within walking distance of all the top Valladolid attractions, restaurants, and cafes.

• Hotel Colonial Zaci
• Hotel Meson del Marques
• Le Muuch Hotel
• Casa Tia Micha

What Airport Do I Fly Into?

If you are flying from outside of Mexico, I would select flying into Cancun at their Cancun International Airport.

You’ll have the most flight options plus better fare rates than if you were to fly into Merida. But check flight deals for both to see your options.

From there you can take a nice bus, a private transfer, or the Maya Tren (train).

Cancun International Airport (CUN): 1.75 – 2 hours east of Valladolid

Merida Airport (MID): 2 – 2.5 hours west of Valladolid

Taking The Bus From Cancun To Valladolid

The easiest way to get from Cancun to Valladolid is by bus. Is it safe? Yes!

I have taken buses all over Mexico and can say they are not only safe, but very nice, cheap, and easy once you understand a few things.

The bus ride from Cancun to Valladolid takes about 2 hours.

For a complete guide, read my post:

Taking The Bus From Cancun To Valladolid

Note: You do lose 1 hour driving from Cancun to Valladolid as they are in different time zones.

Best Time To Visit Valladolid

Valladolid and the rest of the Yucatan is known for having HOT and HOTTER weather!

Regardless of when you visit it will be warm rarely less than 65/68 F which makes it a nice destination if you are looking to get out of the cold at home. The hottest days of the year will peak around 98 F.

November – March: These months have the best weather (slightly cooler) with the months of January and February will be the busiest time of the year too.

Keep in mind Valladolid see a tiny fraction of tourists at this time compared to Cancun, Tulum, or even Merida. I visited in January and didn’t find it crowded at all.

April – May: There will be less visitors compared to the start of the year with temperatures increasing a little.

June – October: During these months temperatures will reach their highest with increased humidity, and the most rain largely due to effects of tropical storms and hurricanes coming from the Caribbean.

What Time Zone Is Valladolid In?

Valladolid and Merida are both in the Yucatan State of Mexico and in Central Standard Time (CST).

This is important to know if you are going to or from Cancun, Cozumel, or Tulum which are in Eastern Standard Time (EST) and 1 hour ahead of Valladolid.

Is Valladolid, Mexico Safe?

Yes! Without hesitation it is one of the safest cities in all of Mexico. In fact, the state of Yucatan (where Valladolid and Merida are) is the safest state in the country.

I felt 100% safe here which is a bonus especially for solo travelers.

Map Of Valladolid, Mexico

Got Travel Insurance?

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Get a no-obligation quote from two trusted travel insurance companies for peace of mind on your next trip!

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