Valladolid Travel Guide

Located half way between Merida and Cancun, Valladolid is a small, quaint city-town that still preserves a special colonial flavor. Here you will see the majority of the townspeople still using the typical dress of the Mayan, colonial architecture around the Main Plaza and many historical buildings.

The Plaza is a unique place with the many Mayan ladies sitting on the side opposite the Cathedral. They are selling their wares that include hand-embroidered dresses and blouses, Barbie dresses, place mats and tablecloths. Artesanias del Parque and Ek Balam are stores right on the plaza, and they also have unusual handcrafts at good prices.

Valladolid is the location of some very important Yucatan history. The Caste War began here in 1849. There are seven churches in different neighborhoods that should be visited, the impressive San Bernadino Convent, two important cenotes (Zaci and Dzitnup - this last one great for swimming), the San Roque Museum, and the Government Palace with its huge murals depicting Mexican history. Sometime during your visit, you will also want to sample the flavorful cuisine from Valladolid, including the local dishes of lomitos de Valladolid, longaniza and chicken escabeche.