Best Things To Do in Valladolid, Quintana Roo

Valladolid in Quintana Roo is a captivating colonial town that embodies the rich history and cultural heritage of the region. With its colorful facades, cobblestone streets, and charming atmosphere, Valladolid offers a glimpse into Mexico’s colonial past while serving as a gateway to nearby Mayan ruins and natural wonders like the unique cenotes in and around the town. In this post, I will share with you the best things to do in Valladolid in Quintana Roo from my perspective.

Best Things to Do in and around Valladolid, Quintana Roo

#1 Visit Chichen Itza

The place probably does not need much introduction. As one of the 7 New Wonders of the World, Chichen Itza is one of the tourist highlights in Mexico. Its proximity to Valladolid make it one of the best things to do when in Valladolid. Even though it is a tourist magnet and very crowded during the day, I still recommend it as this is one of the largest, best excavated and preserved Mayan ruins that I have seen.

How to visit Chichen Itza on your own by colectivo

Taking a tour is recommended to understand the architecture and history of this magical place. However, I found tours to be quite expensive and figured out a cheaper way to visit the place on your own: You can take a colectivo from Valladolid that takes you to the main entrance of Chichen Itza. The trip takes about 40-50 minutes (depends a bit how many people will leave or join the colectivo on the way) but will only cost you 45MXN.

Here is the most important information to take the colectivo from Valladolid to Chichen Itza:

Colectivos leave regularly near the bus terminal on Calle 39 (between Calle 46 and 48).
The colectivo will arrive and let you out on the main parking space of Chichen Itza, from where you can directly head to the main entrance.
For the way back, the colectivos leave directly at the roundabout at the exit of Chichen Itza. Watch out for the signs on the driver window and the drivers will also tell you their destination.
The last colectivo back to Valladolid leaves around 5pm, when Chichen Itza will also close for visitors.

It is recommended to go early in the morning to avoid the heat of the afternoon and the masses that arrive around midday.

#2 Explore the cenotes in and around Valladolid

Valladolid is the epicentre of cenotes in the Yucatan peninsula and visiting them is one of the best things to do in Valladolid. You can find a large amount of cenotes outside, and even inside, of the city. Cenote Zaci is a natural sinkhole located in the heart of Valladolid and is a true paradise in the middle of the city.

Another popular cenote is Cenote Suytun which, however, I did not enjoy so much as it is very crowded and I rather had the impression people just came there to take a photo for their Instagram.

#3 Explore the historic center of Valladolid

Take a leisurely stroll through the streets of Valladolid’s historic center, which is a designated Pueblo Mágico (Magical Town). Admire the well-preserved colonial architecture, vibrant buildings adorned with colorful facades, and the majestic San Gervasio Cathedral. Don’t miss Parque Francisco Canton Rosado, a picturesque park where locals gather to relax and enjoy the ambiance.

Best ways to get to Valladolid, Quintana Roo

Get to Valladolid by plane

The nearest major airport to Valladolid is the Cancún International Airport (CUN). From Cancún, you can rent a car or take a bus to reach Valladolid, which is approximately a two-hour drive. Additionally, you can fly into Merida International Airport (MID) and then travel to Valladolid by bus or car, which takes around an hour and a half. Check Skyscanner or Kayak for best flight options and prices to either Cancún or Mérida.

Get to Valladolid by bus

Valladolid is well-connected by bus services from major cities in the Yucatan Peninsula. There are bus connections to Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Chiquila (ferry terminal to Isla Holbox), Bacalar and Merida. ADO and Mayab are two reputable bus companies that operate routes to Valladolid, providing convenient and comfortable transportation options. Check busbud for prices and availability.

Get to Valladolid by car

Quintana Roo is also very attainable via rental car and offers more flexibility than the bus connections that only leave a few times per day. Check Discover Cars for best rental car offers during your planned visit.

The roads in the Yucatan Pensinsula are usually well-maintained and safe. However, to some cenotes or beaches you might face some dirt roads so a full rental car insurance is recommended. If you plan to travel for a longer period to multiple destinations and use rental cars more often, I would recommend a credit card that includes rental car insurance, for example an American Express Platinum Card.

Other recommendations in Quintana Roo near Valladolid

Laguna Bacalar: Best Things To Do in Laguna Bacalar

Isla Holbox: Best Things To Do in Isla Holbox

Mérida: Best Things To Do in Mérida, Yucatán

Best areas to stay in Valladolid, Quintana Roo

Valladolid is a fairly small place and offers a lot of central hotels and other accommodation options. In general, I would recommend staying in the historic center to have all the main sights and restaurants within walking distance. If you prefer to stay in a place a bit further out, you can also easily get around by scooter.

I liked Margarett Hotel due to its central location and good value for money, but there are plenty of other nice options available on booking.com and airbnb.

Best places to eat in Valladolid, Quintana Roo

When in the Yucatan peninsula, I highly recommend some of the local specialties like Cochinita Pibil (similar to pulled pork) and Sopa de Lima (lime soup). There is one famous taco street stall called “Carrito de Cochinita Pibil” south of the main square (at the corner of Calle 44 and 41) that you should really try while you are in Valladolid.

Other restaurants that I liked for authentic Yucatan cuisine were Conato and Atrio del Mayab (a bit touristy but good food).

To start the day with a delicious coffee and breakfast, I really enjoyed Rua Cafe and went there twice.