If you’re searching for some of the best things to do in Valladolid, then you have come to the right place.
I recently visited again for the second time (the first time was part of a day trip) and absolutely fell in love with this charming town in the middle of the Yucatan.
Whether you’re planning a day trip from Cancún, a stopover during your Yucatán road trip, or a deeper dive into this colorful colonial gem, you’re likely wondering how to make the most of your time here.
Sure, Valladolid might not get as much attention as other Mexican destinations – yes, Tulum, I’m talking about you – but trust me, it should.
After visiting this charming town multiple times, I’ve uncovered the perfect blend of must-sees, hidden gems, and local experiences that travelers often miss.
The problem is, most travel guides skim the surface. They’ll tell you to see Cenote Suytun, snap a photo at the Convento de San Bernardino, and move on. But, do that and you’re barely scratching the surface.
What about the sleepy cenotes no one talks about? I’ve seen too many travelers breeze through Valladolid in a few rushed hours and leave without experiencing what makes it truly special.
So this guide isn’t just another list of touristy stops. It’s written for travelers who want to connect with the place on a deeper level. Now, come with me and experience all of the best things to do in Valladolid.
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1. Visit Chichen Itza
Visiting Chichén Itzá from Valladolid is one of the easiest and most rewarding day trips you can take in the Yucatán.
In fact, it’s so convenient, you don’t need to book a tour at all. Rather, you can do it independently and on your own schedule.
After all, this iconic archaeological site is located just under an hour away (about 45 km) from Valladolid, and regular ADO buses and colectivos make the journey simple.
The ADO bus station in central Valladolid has a few departures each morning, and you can also catch a colectivo from Calle 39, just a couple of blocks north of the main square.
Either option is affordable, and you should expect to pay around $40–$80 MXN one way, depending on the service.
Personally, though, I would opt for a Collectivo so that you can get to the sit right when it opens at 8:00 am. This way, you can beat the heat and the hordes of tour groups from Cancun, Tulum, and Merida.
But why visit? Well, Chichén Itzá is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
And, trust me, it lives up to the hype. The highlight is, of course, El Castillo (Temple of Kukulcán), the massive pyramid that dominates the site.
But there’s much more to explore, including the Great Ball Court, Temple of the Warriors, and the Cenote Sagrado, a sacred sinkhole used in Mayan rituals.
I personally liked having a guide who thoroughly explained everything I was looking at. However, there is some signage (minimal) in English that will outline what is in front of you.
Entrance costs $614 MXN per person for international visitors (as of 2025), which includes both the federal and state fees. Credit cards are accepted, but it’s always a good idea to bring cash just in case.
Also, don’t forget water, sunscreen, and a hat since there’s very little shade once you’re inside.
2. Swim at Cenote Zaci
Cenote Zací is one of Valladolid’s most accessible natural wonders. I was shocked but it’s actually right in the heart of the city.
So, unlike other cenotes that require a drive into the jungle, Zací is just a short walk from the main square, making it the perfect spontaneous stop after a sweaty day of sightseeing.
What makes this cenote truly special is its partially open structure: part cave, part open-air pool, with dramatic stalactites hanging from the ceiling and lush greenery cascading down the limestone walls.
So, swimming here feels like stepping into another world. The water is refreshingly cool and a deep blue, with a depth that varies throughout the cenote (there are both shallow and deep areas). I
If you’re feeling adventurous, there’s a high ledge for cliff jumping since this is a popular activity among locals and visitors alike.
Lifeguards are usually on duty, and life jackets are mandatory for anyone who wants to go swimming here.
Entry is around $150 MXN, and there’s even a restaurant on-site serving traditional Yucatecan food with a view of the cenote below.
Is this my favorite cenote in Valladolid? Probably not. But it is still nice, easy to get to, and super refreshing. I just wouldn’t plan on spending a ton of time here since there is just one main pool.
There are also no lockers, so you may want to leave your valuables back at the hotel.
3. Explore Convent of San Bernardino de Siena
The Convent of San Bernardino de Siena is one of Valladolid’s most iconic landmarks. Therefore, it’s a must-visit for anyone interested in history, architecture, or soaking in the charm of this colonial town.
Located in the quiet neighborhood of Sisal, just a 10-minute walk from the main square, the convent dates back to the mid-16th century, making it one of the oldest Franciscan structures in the Yucatán.
Built atop a former Mayan cenote (which you can still view in the garden), the convent has a striking façade and a peaceful atmosphere that contrasts beautifully with the vibrant energy of the city.
Once inside, you’ll find a small museum with religious artifacts, simple frescoes, and thick stone walls that speak to centuries of history hidden away inside.
The courtyard and arched corridors are perfect for a quiet stroll, and the overall vibe is one of quiet reflection.
The entrance fee is a reasonable $40 MXN, and it’s usually pretty empty, especially in the mornings.
If you visit in the evening, be sure to stick around for the free nightly light and sound show, which tells the story of the convent and Valladolid’s colonial past (usually around 9 PM in Spanish and 9:30 PM in English).
Also, FYI, this spot is open 7 days a week, even though Google may tell you otherwise.
4. Walk Down Calzada de los Frailes
Calzada de los Frailes (aka the Road of the Friars) is a charming cobblestone street steeped in rich colonial history.
It connects the main town center to the former convent of San Bernardino de Siena in the Sisal neighborhood and is lined with vibrant, pastel-colored houses, boutique shops, artisanal stores, and cozy cafés.
All in all, it’s a picturesque destination perfect for a quiet walk, photo ops, and enjoying local culture.
What makes Calzada de los Frailes especially worth visiting is its mix of old-world charm and modern style.
So, as you walk the street, you’ll feel transported by the architectural beauty and the tranquil ambiance.
One hidden gem along the calzada is ConKafecito, a laid-back café known for its excellent Wi-Fi, strong coffee, amazing a/c, and delicious cheesecake.
Whether you’re a digital nomad or just catching up on emails, it’s a perfect spot to get work done in a peaceful setting.
So whether you come for the history or stay for the cheesecake, Calzada de los Frailes is a must-see destination in Valladolid.
5. Visit the Ruins at Ek Balam
Ek Balam is an impressive archaeological site that is located just 30 minutes from Valladolid, making it a nice half-day trip for travelers based in the city.
Unlike more crowded ruins like Chichén Itzá, Ek Balam is quieter and offers a more immersive experience since you can actually climb the main pyramid, something increasingly rare at Mayan sites.
The structure, known as El Torre, rises about 30 meters high and rewards climbers with panoramic views of the surrounding jungle.
One of the most striking features is the detailed stucco carvings near the top, including a massive jaguar-mouth doorway that gives the site its name (“Ek Balam” means “Black Jaguar” in Mayan).
Getting to Ek Balam is also simple and affordable. Colectivos (shared vans) leave regularly from Valladolid near the corner of Calle 44 and 37, and the ride costs around 70 MXN.
Then, after exploring the ruins, visitors can cool off in Cenote X’Canche, located just a short walk or bike ride from the entrance.
With its clear, refreshing waters and rope swings, it’s a perfect place to relax after a hot day at the ruins. I also LOVE that these ruins are surrounded by a forest that provides you with plenty of shade.
Between the climbable pyramid, rich history, and nearby cenote, Ek Balam is without a doubt one of the best things to do in Valladolid.
Expert Tip: Please note, visiting Ek Balam is not cheap and costs 531 MXN. You can pay by card by you must pay at least 100 MXN in cash upon arrival since this is a government fee.
6. Explore the Coba Ruins
The Coba ruins are an expansive and historically significant archaeological site located about 1 hour and 45 minutes away from Valladolid. So, yeah, visiting will definitely be a bit of a trek.
Once a powerful Mayan city, Coba is known for its network of ancient roads (sacbéob) and its towering pyramid, Nohoch Mul, which stands at 42 meters and is one of the tallest in the Yucatán.
While climbing the pyramid is no longer allowed (for preservation reasons), the site is still awe-inspiring and offers a glimpse into the peak of Mayan civilization.
Overall, Coba is unique because of its layout, with temples and structures spread out across the jungle.
Renting a bike or hiring a bicycle taxi on-site is a popular and fun way to explore since walking around would take FOREVER.
The entrance fee is around 100–110 pesos, and the site is open daily from 8 AM to 5 PM. There’s also a small additional charge for bike rentals or guided tours.
To get there from Valladolid, you can take an ADO bus, rent a car, or hire a private taxi for a quicker and more flexible trip.
If you want to take the bus to Coba, they usually depart from the ADO station at around 10:00 am and drop you off about 5/10 minutes from the ruins.
The bus then returns again at around 3:00 pm or 4:00 pm. Buses are pretty infrequent so check the ADO website for accurate times so that you can get back to Vallabolid without paying a small fortune.
7. Cenote Saamal
Before I continue, please note that there are a TON of cenotes in Valladolid. So, much so that I could write an entire post on the subject.
However, I am just gonna go into detail about the ones I PERSONALLY visited. But, there are definitely other options out there if none of these peak your interest.
Now, back to our regularly scheduled program.
Cenote Saamal is a beautiful open-air cenote located about 10 minutes from Valladolid, making it one of the most accessible swimming spots in the area.
Set within the grounds of the Hacienda Selva Maya, this cenote features a stunning circular pit with cascading waterfalls, lush greenery, and a refreshing pool of deep, blue water.
I chose choose to visit Cenote Saamal after exploring Chichén Itzá since it lies along the route back to Valladolid.
However, if you want to visit from the city center, a taxi there will cost you a set fee of 150 MXN.
The entrance fee for Cenote Saamal is around 200 MXN, and life jackets are required (included in the fee).
The site also has changing rooms, lockers, bathrooms, and a buffet restaurant, making it easy to spend an hour or two here.
8. Cenote Samula
Cenote Samula is one of the most stunning underground cenotes near Valladolid,. It’s also well-located in the town of Dzitnup, which is only about 10 minutes away from the city center.
It’s known for its dramatic beauty since a large cave-like chamber with a small hole in the ceiling allows a beam of sunlight to shine down onto the crystal-clear blue water.
Honestly, it is truly amazing to see and creates a magical, almost otherworldly scene. I got here at around 9:30 am and loved it because I pretty much had the place all to myself.
Cenote Samula is also part of a two-cenote complex along with Cenote Xkeken.. So, you can visit one cenote for 150 MXN or two cenotes for 200 MXN.
Both tickets includes access to changing rooms, bathrooms, and life jacket rentals (required).
Lockers are also available for a small additional fee although I didn’t really need one since it was safe to leave my bag on the rocks near the cenote.
You can get there easily by taxi (150 MXM one way) or by biking since there is a nice bike path you can use and the trip will take around 30 minutes each way.
The unique atmosphere, dramatic lighting, and cool, swimmable waters make Cenote Samula a must-visit during your time in the city.
9. Cenote Suytun
Cenote Suytun is one of the most iconic and Instagram-famous cenotes in the Yucatán.
After all, it’s known for its circular stone platform and a dramatic beam of light that shines through a hole in the ceiling, creating a surreal, totally natural, spotlight effect.
Located just 10 minutes east of Valladolid, it’s incredibly easy to reach and makes for a quick but unforgettable experience.
The cenote is fully enclosed in a cavern, with stairs leading down to the water. Swimming is allowed, though life jackets (included in the entrance fee) are required.
The entrance fee is around 150–200 MXN, depending on the ticket you buy since the more expensive option includes access to a second, smaller cenote.
You can get there via a taxi (150 MXN one way) or by bike (20–25 minute ride).
If you’re driving, there’s free parking on-site. The facilities are also well-maintained, with bathrooms, changing rooms, lockers, and a small souvenir shop.
If possible, visit early in the day to avoid crowds and have a better chance of catching the famous sunbeam, which typically appears mid-morning to early afternoon on sunny days.
Expert Tip: Not into crowds? Then visit other cenotes like Cenote Ik Kil: or Cenote Oxman.
10. Casa de los Venados
Casa de los Venados is a privately-owned home and folk art museum located just off the main square in Valladolid.
It’s one of the city’s hidden gems and a must-visit for anyone interested in Mexican culture, art, or history.
The name translates to “House of the Deer,” and the space showcases over 3,000 pieces of vibrant Mexican folk art collected from all over the country by the owners, who have opened their home to the public through guided tours.
What makes Casa de los Venados special is the sheer variety of the collection, which includes everything from giant alebrijes to traditional Day of the Dead figures, Huichol beadwork, and hand-painted ceramics.
The art is thoughtfully displayed throughout a stunning colonial-era house that has been beautifully restored, blending old-world architecture with modern design.
Entrance is by guided tour only, tours that are usually offered daily at 10:00 AM in both English and Spanish.
There’s also a suggested donation of 100 pesos, which goes to local charities. In total, the tour lasts about an hour and provides rich insight into the meaning and origin of the artworks.
11. Plaza e Parque Francisco Canton
Plaza e Parque Francisco Cantón is the vibrant heart of Valladolid and a must-visit spot for anyone in the city.
Located in the center of town, directly across from the San Servacio Church, this charming square is full of local life, history, and culture.
It’s the perfect place to relax, people-watch, and get a feel for the overall vibe in Valladolid.
Believe it or not, the park is named after Francisco Cantón Rosado, a former governor of the Yucatán and a key figure in Valladolid’s development during the late 19th century.
The plaza itself has been a central gathering point since colonial times and remains the city’s social hub.
Shaded by large trees and lined with white “kissing chairs” (sillas tú y yo), the park is a peaceful place to relax and a great spot to enjoy a marquesita or ice cream from nearby vendors.
Surrounding the plaza are historic buildings, local restaurants, and artisan shops. In the evenings, it often comes alive with live music, cultural events, or traditional dances.
12. Iglesia de San Servacio
Iglesia de San Servacio is one of Valladolid’s most iconic landmarks and a key piece of the city’s colonial history.
Nestled on the south side of Parque Francisco Cantón, this striking Catholic church dominates the main square with its twin bell towers and impressive stone façade.
Originally built in 1545, it was one of the first churches constructed after the Spanish conquest of the Yucatán.
However, the church seen today is not the original. In 1705, the initial structure was demolished and rebuilt by order of the colonial government after a violent incident known as the “Crime of the Mayors” occurred inside its walls.
The current version was completed in 1706 and was constructed with a different orientation. So, the church now faces the north rather than the east, making it unique among colonial churches in Mexico.
Visitors will appreciate the church’s simple yet powerful architecture, historical significance, and central location.
It’s also still an active place of worship, giving visitors the chance to witness local religious traditions and festivals if you visit at the right time.
13. Do Some Honey Tasting
⭐️ Rating: 4.9/5.0 (42 Reviews) Price: $18.00 per person Duration: 1.5 hours 📍Meeting Point: Xkopek Parque Apícola Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!
If you’re looking for a unique and enriching experience in Valladolid, this Melipona Bee and Cenote Tour is a must.
It combines nature, culture, and hands-on learning in a way that’s both fascinating and fun.
The tour begins with a guided walking tour that takes you past local flora before leading you down into a dry cenote, a rare sight in the Yucatán.
Here, you’ll learn about the native plants growing inside and their traditional uses in Maya medicine and daily life.
As you enter the vault of the cenote, you’ll see wild Melipona bees, a stingless species sacred to the Mayan people.
Don’t worry, they’re completely safe to observe and offer a rare look at native pollinators in their natural habitat.
“Fantastic! Wonderful nature preserve in the heart of Valladoild. Tour very informative. Excellent honey sampling at the end of the tour. Nice little cafe nearby for eats. Highly recommend!!”
John (read more reviews now)
The experience continues with a jungle walk, where you’ll learn to identify the plants vital for honey production.
Once at the Meliponario (bee sanctuary), you’ll dive into the world of Mayan beekeeping, open a live hive, and witness the intricate architecture created by these amazing insects.
To top it off, you’ll get to taste fresh Melipona honey, known for its health benefits and unique flavor, and be able to shop in a small honey shop.
It’s a perfect blend of education, sustainability, and cultural heritage, all just minutes from Valladolid.
Map of the Best Things to do in Vallabolid
Conclusion
After several trips to Valladolid, I can honestly say this little colonial gem never gets old.
Whether I’m climbing ancient pyramids at Ek Balam, cooling off in a dreamy cenote, sipping a café de olla at ConKafecito, or just people-watching in Parque Francisco Cantón, there’s always something new to fall in love with.
Honestly, Valladolid is this magical blend of history, nature, and everyday local life that makes it feel authentic and alive.
It’s not just a stopover between Chichén Itzá and the coast; it’s a destination in its own right. And the best part? It’s still got that under-the-radar charm. So, no need to worry about the crowds and chaos.
That’s why, if you’re heading to the Yucatán and wondering whether Valladolid is worth a stop, it 110% is.
Come for a day and you’ll wish you stayed longer. Come for a few days, and you might start dreaming about moving here (guilty!).
