TOP 10 ACTIVITIES
IN VALLADOLID
Valladolid is a small, quaint city loaded with activities. There is something for everyone, from walking and sightseeing in its colonial streets, admiring the colorful, historic buildings, shopping, or visiting its museums and churches, swimming in the natural, refreshing cenotes, to sampling its delicious regional cuisine! Check out our list of 10 must-dos during your stay in Valladolid.
#1
CENOTE ZACI
Visit Cenote Zaci
Located in the city center is one of Valladolid’s famous cenotes, Cenote Zaci. This freshwater sinkhole is conveniently located and within walking distance of the city’s main square. Take a refreshing swim, jumping from one of the sides, or entering by the stairs. Or why not go by for a delicious lunch or snack at the onsite restaurant and view the cenote from a height at the viewing platform?
#2
LIGHT SHOW
Watch the Free Light and Sound Show
Every night at 9:25 PM, there is a free light and sound show that walks visitors through the local history of the city. This colorful, and interesting show is projected onto the walls of the convent of San Bernadino de Siena, in the neighborhood of Sisal, which is a 15-minute walk from the city’s main square.
#3
LOVE SEATS
Enjoy a Marquesita in one of Valladolid’s Famous Love Seats
In Valladolid’s central square, you will find the park - Parque Francisco Canton, in front of the impressive Cathedral - San Gervasio. Enjoy the magical, and local atmosphere as you and a loved one sit opposite each other in one of the famous love seats in the park, enjoying a marquesita (a delicious regional street food snack, available to buy from one of the vendors in the park).
#4
EXPLORE ON BICYCLE
Rent a Bicycle and Explore Some of the Cenotes Outside of the City
Around the city of Valladolid, there is a collection of open, semi-open, and cave cenotes. Some of these ancient water-filled sinkholes are within easy access of the city, located just a short trip outside. Why not rent a bicycle and cycle to one, with a refreshing dip to cool off when you get there? Cenotes you can get to easily by bicycle are X’keken, Saamul, and Oxman.
#5
MERCARDO MUNICIPAL
Visit the Mercardo Municipal
Shop for fresh, local honey, homemade, hot salsas, and more local produce to take home with you in the Mercado Municipal. If you are staying in the city at a vacation rental with a kitchen, pick up some of the freshest fruit and vegetables here to cook a delicious meal! There are also artisanal, and handmade accessories and clothing for you to buy as souvenirs of your trip.
#6
MAYAN RUINS
Take a Day Trip to the Nearby Archeological Ruins
Valladolid is located a short ride away from the Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza and Ek Balam, which means that you can visit them easily from the city. Avoid the crowds, and get there early at 8 AM, when the sites open, before the crowds from the Riviera Maya arrive on the coaches later in the morning.
#7
REGIONAL CUISINE
Enjoy an Economical Breakfast or Lunch of Regional Cuisine
Visit the local market in front of the main square, and choose which of the economic kitchens you want to order food from in this food hall and enjoy a tasty breakfast or lunch. Here you can check out some famous, local and regional dishes from Valladolid and the Yucatan, including relleno negro, lomitos, longaniza, poc chuc, cochinita pibil, as well as many other options.
#8
MEMORABLE PHOTOS
Explore, Shop and Take Memorable Photos in Calzada de los Frailes
The street that leads from the center of Valladolid to the neighborhood of Sisal is called Calzada de los Frailes. This colorful street looks like it has come straight from a movie set. Explore cute boutiques and shop for unique souvenirs and gifts, get a coffee, and take memorable photos in a setting that's perfect for Instagram.
#9
VALLADOLID LETTERS
Get a Photo in Front of the Valladolid Letters
In front of the convent of San Bernadino de Siena, in the neighborhood of Sisal, you will find a picture-perfect opportunity, with the colorful ‘VALLADOLID’ letters, take a photo in front of this local landmark.
#10
EL MESON
Eat at El Meson del Marques
Dine in the large colonial courtyard of this traditional, 17th-century house, which is now a hotel in the center of the city. With delicious, regional food available, you will enjoy this quaint, peaceful setting. You can even watch as they prepare tortillas from scratch.