Day trip from:

Valladolid

Colonial Pueblo Mágico with cenotes, Yucatecan cuisine, and authentic Mexican charm

Half day (combine with Chichén Itzá) or overnight

80 MXN(Cenote Zací ~80 MXN (~$5). Most churches and plazas free. ADO bus from Playa ~200 MXN (~$12).)

Year-round. Best combined with early morning Chichén Itzá visit, then lunch and cenote in Valladolid. Overnight stay allows for quieter evening plaza experience.

Overview

Valladolid offers the colonial charm of San Miguel de Allende without the crowds or prices—a colorful Pueblo Mágico with pink-painted buildings, cenotes within the city limits, and authentic Yucatecan cuisine. The town makes an excellent base for visiting Chichén Itzá (40 km away) or a refreshing cultural stop between archaeological sites. **Why combine with Chichén Itzá:** Located just 40 km (40 minutes) west of the famous ruins, Valladolid provides a more authentic Mexican experience than the tourist shops surrounding Chichén Itzá. Have lunch in the main plaza, swim in Cenote Zací, and explore colonial architecture—all at a fraction of Riviera Maya prices. **Getting there from Playa del Carmen:** ADO buses run regularly (2-2.5 hours, ~200 MXN). Colectivos also available. Many visitors rent a car to combine with Chichén Itzá and cenotes en route.

Highlights

Cenote Zací—large open-air cenote right in the city center (entry ~80 MXN)

San Servacio Cathedral on the main plaza (Parque Francisco Cantón)

Calzada de los Frailes—colorful street with cafes, boutiques, and street art

Yucatecan cuisine: cochinita pibil, papadzules, sopa de lima at local prices

Convent of San Bernardino—16th-century Franciscan monastery with cenote in grounds

Pueblo Mágico designation—preserved colonial architecture and cultural heritage

Gateway to Chichén Itzá (40 km)—beat the crowds by staying overnight

Cenote Suytun and Cenote Samulá nearby for swimming

Authentic Mexican town experience without Riviera Maya tourist prices

Practical Information

Suggested Duration

Half day (combine with Chichén Itzá) or overnight

Entrance Fee

80 MXN

Cenote Zací ~80 MXN (~$5). Most churches and plazas free. ADO bus from Playa ~200 MXN (~$12).

Best Time to Visit

Year-round. Best combined with early morning Chichén Itzá visit, then lunch and cenote in Valladolid. Overnight stay allows for quieter evening plaza experience.

How to Get There

Car/RentalBusOrganized Tour

Location

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Plan Your Base

Explore the destinations where you can make this a day trip.

Playa del Carmen Mérida