Valladolid
A beautiful colonial town midway between Mérida and Cancún — the best base for arriving at Chichén Itzá at opening.
Photo by Loris Boulinguez on Unsplash
Valladolid is one of the Yucatán's most atmospheric colonial towns — quieter than Mérida, cheaper than Cancún, and better positioned than either for arriving at Chichén Itzá before the tour-bus crowds. The town has a cenote right in the city centre (Cenote Zací), excellent budget accommodation, and a genuinely local character that makes it a pleasure to spend a day or two beyond the ruins.
Nearby Maya Archaeological Sites
Sites most commonly visited from Valladolid
Town Highlights
- Cenote Zací — a stunning open cenote in the city centre
- Calzada de los Frailes — photogenic colonial street
- San Bernardino de Siena Convent (16th century)
- Weekly market and excellent local food
Getting to Valladolid
ADO bus from Mérida (1.5 hr, ~US$9) or Cancún (2.5 hr). Combis from Chichén Itzá run frequently (30 min).
Getting to the Sites
Chichén Itzá: 30 min by ADO bus or combi (40 km). Ek' Balam: 30 min by combi or taxi (25 km north). Taxis from the central plaza serve both.
Best base for
Best base for arriving at Chichén Itzá at 8 AM opening before the crowds
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