Just a couple of hours from the popular beach destinations of Cancun and Tulum, Valladolid is a tranquil bohemian town featuring stunning Spanish colonial architecture, sacred swimming holes known as cenotes, and authentic Yucatán cuisine. Even though it’s off the beaten path, visitors will discover a relaxed atmosphere deep-rooted in Mayan culture.
This historical city is conveniently positioned between Merida and Quintana Roo – and close to Chichén Itzá – making it an excellent spot to pause for a day between the major tourist attractions in the Yucatán Peninsula. With a leisurely pace of life and endless delectable treats, it’s no wonder that visitors often wish to linger longer than just 24 hours.
If you’ve only got one day in Valladolid, however, here’s a guide on what to do, what to see, and where to eat:
Yucatán Fare in the City Center
Start your day with a hearty breakfast or early lunch at La Cantina Restaurante y Bar, located right in the city’s plaza mayor. Its local Yucatán fare rarely disappoints, especially with standout dishes like cochinita pibil and sopa de lima (lime soup with chicken). Don’t miss trying a glass of delicious horchata (a sweet rice milk drink) in the outdoor seating area before heading to your next stop.
Artisanal Gelato Made with Local Ingredients
Less than a block from La Cantina, Wabi Gelato offers a curated, rotating menu of gelato and sorbet with bold flavors like Pineapple and Cilantro, Sweet Potato and Honey, and Lemon and Chile Habanero.
This charming gelato shop is run by an expat couple who wanted to share their passion for unique flavors after traveling around the world. You’ll feel as if you’ve been transported to Italy while indulging in decadent spoonfuls of small-batch concoctions in a cozy, inviting atmosphere. Grab a to-go cone on a warm afternoon stroll to one of Valladolid’s nearby cenotes.
Local Swimming in the Heart of Valladolid
A short walk from the gelato shop, visit Cenote Zací – a popular underground river featuring deep blue freshwater and ample swimming areas. Stone stairs lead down to the partially-covered, open-air cave, complete with a small waterfall, swinging and underwater ropes, high ledges for cliff jumpers, and a walkway encircling the cenote’s perimeter.
Although the site can become busy during peak tourist season, Cenote Zací is spacious enough to accommodate many swimmers. A bonus feature? Fish that nibble at your feet for a complimentary mini pedicure. The entry fee is 30 MX pesos, but the on-site restaurant will waive this fee if you spend 100 MX pesos per person on food or beverages.
Cool Off with a Refreshing Michelada
Once you’re done swimming, head upstairs to the restaurant located above. Here, you’ll find quick bites and a michelada (a savory drink similar to a Bloody Mary but made with beer) under a large palapa at Restaurante Zaci.
Surrounded by lush vegetation, the restaurant overlooks Cenote Zací, allowing you to enjoy water views along with affordable, decent fare from the balcony area. Show your cenote receipt for a 30 MX pesos discount on your final bill, effectively making entry free.
Favorite Hangout Spot for Locals and Tourists
Next, return to the city center (remember, Valladolid is all about that slow life) to explore the plaza mayor and Parque Francisco Canton. The park is popular among locals and is perfect for relaxing in the afternoon shade on one of the many benches.
Parque Francisco can become bustling at midday with tour buses returning from excursions to Merida, nearby ruins, or beach areas. However, in the evening, the park transforms into a lively scene with Mayan dancers and traditional music. Be sure to grab an elote con mayo (corn with mayonnaise) from one of the nearby vendors.
16th Century Spanish Church
Catedral de San Servasio (or Iglesia de Plaza Mayor) can be seen from anywhere in the park, but is worth a closer look on your way to one of the gift shops (great for Mayan-inspired trinkets) around the plaza. Originally constructed in 1545, this cathedral exemplifies Spanish colonial architecture that beautifully lights up at night.
Bicycle Your Way Down a Charming Colonial Street
You can rent a bike at local spots and cycle down one of Valladolid’s most picturesque streets: Calzada de los Frailes. This famous street serves as a time capsule of the city’s colonial past with its colorful storefronts, charming houses, and quaint restaurants. Along the way, find authentic Yucatán wares, local honey, handmade textiles, and unique gifts. Enjoy a quick cappuccino at any of the outdoor cafes or indulge in a handcrafted empanada at Tresvanbien.
Off-the-Beaten Path Cenote and 18th Century Hacienda
After you’ve refueled with coffee, cycle over to Hacienda San Lorenzo: a stunning 18th-century estate featuring high pink-orange archways, a pool, and an on-site cenote. You’ll navigate along long dirt and gravel paths in the countryside (approximately 20-25 minutes outside the city center) to reach this beautiful retreat.
The winding staircase at the entrance to the cenote takes you deep underground, leading to a spectacular blue-green pool where ropes hang from above for fun swimming experiences. Long, delicate trails of tree roots cascade from the ceilings as you float around. The cenote closes at 5 PM, so be sure to arrive early to make the most of the sunlight.
Historic Sightseeing Plus Tacos
On your way back into the city, ride past the historic Convent of San Bernardino of Siena near Parque Sisal. Construction on the first home of the Franciscan Order in Valladolid began in the mid-1500s, making it one of the oldest colonial structures in Yucatán. Don’t forget to grab a quick taco (because Mexico, right?) at Yerbabuena del Sisal.
Eclectic Design Meets Tasty Cuisine
End your day-long adventure with dinner (and perhaps live music) at Casa Conato Cultural 1910. With its rooftop terrace, garden area, shop, and delicious menu options, this unassuming, art-centric restaurant creates the perfect atmosphere to unwind for the evening in Valladolid.
