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Latest update: 7 March 2022
Valladolid in Mexico is primarily a logistically convenient place. You can easily make trips to Chichen Itza, Ek Balam, or Río Lagartos. However, in the city, which feels like a village, you can also do some fun things. So check my tips right away.
Dusty and hot Valladolid
Valladolid is a bit of a sleepy town in the Yucatán region. No wonder because it is oppressively hot. As soon as I get out of the shower, my skin gets covered with a layer of sweat mixed with dust. All that dust ensures that the Mexican ladies sweep their doorsteps almost all day long. There is still quite a bit of traffic on the main streets, but I wouldn’t be surprised if a cowboy on horseback suddenly comes around the corner. It is a wonderful city to catch your breath if you have traveled for a long time in Mexico already. Otherwise, it is ideal for making many day trips.
Hostels in Valladolid
Let me start with a hostel tip. I am staying at Hostel Candelaria in a 6 person dorm. The room is much too small, and there is hardly any space for our belongings. Luckily the shower is in the hallway. But despite this inconvenience, Candelaria is a very nice hostel. The common areas are large, and there is a beautiful garden with an open kitchen. Every morning you get a freshly made breakfast served (included in the price). The receptionists are all sweet and helpful. You book on Booking.com.
If Hostel Candelaria is full, try Hostal Tunich Naj, or if you’re in the mood for luxury, try Hotel Zentik.
Gran Chan Café
When I walk from the hostel towards the center, I quickly find the Gran Chan Café. I wasn’t ready for coffee at all, but the decor (a combination of hipster and Mexican) draws me in any way. And then I immediately go outside again through the back door because a lovely relaxing garden catches my eye. A handful of people are having breakfast, reading, and writing postcards. The eggs benedict are delicious, the cappuccino is mediocre, and the Dutch owner is friendly. I feel comfortable here, so come more often, but just stick to juices from now on.
Gran Chan Cafe on Google Maps
Convento de San Bernardino
The Convento de San Bernardino Monastery is a pink oasis of tranquility. I wander the cool, pink corridors for 30 pesos (free on Sundays). There is actually very little to see here: no art or history, for example. Instead, the building itself is the highlight. From Wednesday to Saturday evening at 9 pm, there is a light show on the monastery’s walls. First with a Spanish explanation about the history of Valladolid, then in English. It takes about 20 minutes and is free to visit.
Google Maps location Convento de San Bernardino
Yerbabuena del Sisal
Opposite the monastery, on the other side of the square, you will find Yerbabuena. Yerbabuena is one of the best restaurants in Valladolid. You can go there for breakfast, lunch, coffee, and juices. Mexican and healthy cooking is served (which does not necessarily go hand in hand). The restaurant has light-colored decor, and the seating areas are spacious. Really recommended.
Yerbabuena on GoogleMaps
Shopping in Valladolid
There are stalls around the central square selling souvenirs (especially dream catchers, here they are much cheaper than in Tulum, for example) and much-needed shops with food, clothing, and other things. Mainly aimed at the Mexican living in Valladolid. You will find boutiques on the Calzada de los Frailes. Think of handmade chic clothing, bags, and jewelers. Definitely, a nice street to walk through. For a good shopping session, you do need a reasonable budget in this street. There are also a few nice spots here for a drink.
Drinks at Cafeina Valladolid
On a weekday evening in Valladolid, it takes a while to find a nice place to have a drink. Finally, I end up at Cafeina. They serve craft beers and food. I’ve already had my dinner, but the pizzas on my neighbors’ plate look delicious.
Yoga with Adina
On Tuesday evening and Wednesday morning, Adina gives yoga classes in Casa Quetzal. The hotel is near the monastery. You can join a lesson for 120 pesos (pay in cash). I have already registered at the reception of Casa Quetzal during the day, but it is unclear whether this is necessary. The garden of Casa Quetzal is charming and has a small swimming pool. Perhaps worth considering if you’re still looking for accommodation? The class is a Vinyasa class and very soothing. On Saturday mornings, Adina teaches in the more chic Hotel Zenti’k. But be sure to check her Facebook page for the latest yoga schedule.
Cenote Zaci in Vallodolid
In the middle of Valladolid, you’ll find a huge cenote: a beautiful pool of water. People come here to cool down on a hot day. Have a little swim with the catfish, chill on the rocks, and have a drink at the restaurant. If you go to the restaurant, you visit cenote Zací for free. The regular entrance fee is 30 pesos; at the bathrooms, you pay an additional 5 pesos if you want to change, and a locker is 20 pesos.
Google Maps location Cenote Zací
Valladolid day trip: the Mayan ruins of Chichén Itza and Ek’ Balam
An hour from Valladolid is Chichén Itza: the mother of all Maya ruins in Yucatan and named a new wonder of the world. Not far from there is also the Ek’ Balam ruin. You can visit both in one day. Read more about these mighty beautiful Mayan ruins.
Day trip from Valladolid: spot pink flamingos and pink lakes
You’ve probably seen Las Coloradas on your Instagram feed before. These beautiful pink lakes are quite a popular photo spot. Some tours go to the famous lakes, but you can also arrange a visit yourself. Go by rental car or use public transport. It does take extremely long to get there by public transport, so be sure to combine your outing with a visit to Río Lagartas to see the flamingos. Read more about it in this blog.
More Mexico inspiration?
Helpful links for your Mexico trip
- Accommodation. All-time favorite: Booking.com. Find hostels via Hostelworld.
- Activities. You book the best tours and activities with GetYourGuide and Viator. You could also try WithLocals. ‘Free’ walking tours are available at GuruWalk. And for bike tours, try Baja Bikes.
- Attractions and museums. Get a 5% discount on museums and attractions at Tiqets with the coupon code KIMOPREIS22.
- Bus. Book bus trips in Mexico with Busbud or 12Go.
- Car rental. My go-to car rental companies are EasyTerra and Sunny Cars as they have all-inclusive / worry-free offers. If you want more options, compare prices at Discover Cars.
- Flights. Compare all your options! Definitely check out Momondo, Skyscanner, and Kiwi.
- Money. Your debit and credit cards may not get accepted everywhere. You could opt for a Revolut card as an additional card when you travel.
- Package deals. Rather go on a catered trip? You have many options! For the Dutch, try ANWB vakanties, Tui or Sawadee, or maybe you can find a sweet deal at Vakantie Discounter or D-reizen?
- SIM card. Beware of unexpectedly high calling and internet costs. Buy a local SIM card when you arrive, or arrange one online via Airalo.
- Travel gear. Buy your gear at Bever or Decathlon, or simply at Bol.com.
- Travel guides. I love the practical travel guides from Lonely Planet, buy them at Bol.com or Amazon.
- Visum. Make sure you have the right documentation to travel to Mexico. iVisa can help you out.
- Yoga retreat. Or: try a yoga retreat in Mexico!
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First published: January 2019. The article has been updated since.
