Valladolid is a beautiful colonial city located in the heart of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula, only two hours away from both Cancún and Playa del Carmen.
The city is one of several ‘Pueblos Magicos’ – towns and cities selected by Mexico’s Secretariat of Tourism for their natural beauty, cultural richness, and historical relevance. And it’s easy to see why they added Valladolid to the list: it’s a charming and vibrant city, with pretty, pastel-colored houses and impressive colonial churches.
Earlier this year, I traveled across the Yucatán Peninsula for five weeks, and Valladolid became one of my favorite destinations in the region.
I quickly fell in love with its stunning architecture, colorful local markets and great Mexican food. The city is also home to a unique blend of Spanish and Mayan culture – most people living in the city are Mayan, and the many of them still wear their traditional clothing.
And best of all? It’s one of the least touristic places I’ve traveled to in Mexico, since most tourists only visit Valladolid on a daytrip from more popular destinations such as Cancún. Because of this, the city has retained its authentic, local feel, and offers you a glimpse into the real Mexico, untouched by mass tourism.
Here are 15 colorful photos that will inspire you to add this beautiful city to your Mexican itinerary!
Parque Francisco Canton Rosado in the center of the city
Calzada de Los Frailes, the city’s most beautiful street
Colorful market in Parque Fransisco Canton Rosado
Market stall in Parque Fransisco Canton Rosado
Calzada de Los Frailes
Catedral de San Gervasio, the city’s most important colonial church
Calzada de Los Frailes
Catedral de San Gervasio
Calzada de Los Frailes
Colorful sign in front of the convent of San Bernardino
Inside the convent of San Bernardino
Calzada de los Frailes
Parque Francisco Canton Rosado
Calzada de los Frailes
2 Comments
Alison
juni 26, 2018 at 7:58 pmBeautiful. I had no idea. Would love to stay here!
Marieke
juni 27, 2018 at 3:23 pmThat’s great to hear! It’s such a lovely city.