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Yucatan Road Trip: My 10-Day Yucatan Itinerary [2024]

• by Nellie Huang

For an epic Yucatan road trip, here is a detailed 10-day Yucatan itinerary packed with outdoor adventures and cultural immersions.

Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula is a lot more than just all-inclusive resorts and wide sandy beaches — it’s dotted with gorgeous cenotes (underwater sinkholes), impressive ancient ruins and charming colonial towns. Since moving here, we’ve discovered that the region really has no shortage of archaeological ruins, historical colonial cities, and freshwater caves.

We chose to live here, for good reasons! I promise you’ll fall for the Yucatan, just as we did. To help you plan the perfect Yucatan road trip , I’ve put together this action-packed Yucatan itinerary that will show you the best beaches, colonial cities and ancient sites in just 10 days.

Table of Contents

How to Get to the Yucatan Peninsula

Mexico travel requirements , best time for a yucatan road trip, is this yucatan road trip safe, how much does a yucatan road trip cost, where to stay in valladolid, yucatan itinerary day 2: valladolid, swim in cenote zaci, visit convent of san bernardino, visit the stunning cenote suytun, explore ek balam , swim in cenote x’canche, float in cenote ik kil, visit the yellow city of izamal,  soak up mexican culture in merida, where to stay in merida, see the monumento a la patria, visit  the palacio de gobierno, explore the mayan world museum of merida, catch a pok ta pok mayan ball game, experience a shaman ritual in cenote sacamucuy, where to stay in tulum, visit  mystika tulum, swim in the gran cenote, extending your yucatan road trip, more travel tips for the yucatan:, further reading on mexico, yucatan  road trip guide.

The main gateway to Yucatan is Cancun International Airport (even though Cancun is not in the Yucatan state). Flying into Cancun from the US is really affordable. You can  fly from New York to Cancun  for as little as $300 return (4.5-hour flight).  Flights from Los Angeles to Cancun  are slightly more expensive around US$350 return (4.5-hour flight).

Book Flights to Cancun

Mexico has no travel restrictions, and there’s no need for proof of vaccine or PCR tests on the plane or ferry. Anyone is welcomed to travel to Mexico.

However, I always recommend travelers to buy travel insurance, whether you’re traveling for a year or a week. It is particularly important to have travel insurance that covers COVID-19.

Safety Wing  is the most popular travel insurance company for COVID19-coverage. I use their  Nomad Insurance plan , which covers COVID-19 as any other illness as long as it was not contracted before your coverage start date. Refer to my  travel insurance guide  for more details.

How to Get Around the Yucatan

For this Yucatan road trip, I recommend hiring a compact car. An economy rental car in Mexico averages just $200 for a whole week, which is less than $25 a day. The current price for gas is 16.50 pesos per liter (about $2.50 per gallon), though this varies throughout the country.

It’s generally easy to drive in Mexico, especially outside of the cities. I drive in Playa del Carmen everyday and find it quite easy: just watch out for portholes and crazy drivers! In this Yucatan itinerary, we cover roads that are in relatively good conditions. 

Check Car Rental Prices

If you don’t want to drive in Mexico, it is absolutely possible to follow this Yucatan itinerary by bus. Mexico has an extensive bus network and buses are really affordable. The buses are generally good quality and air-conditioned. The most popular bus company in the region is Grupo ADO. Book tickets online to ensure availability . Some offer luxury or de lujo services with lots of legroom, reclining seats, and TVs.

The best time to visit the Yucatan is during the dry season between December and April , when there is virtually no rain. Head to the Yucatan Peninsula at the start of the season (November to early December) when prices are lower. Read this guide on the best time to visit the Riviera Maya .

The wet season begins in the south in May and lasts until October. The Caribbean coast can be affected by the hurricane season, which runs from June to November. Try to avoid public holiday as surcharges are common around Christmas, New Year’s, and Easter.

 Yucatan is one of the safest places in Mexico for travelers . While petty crime is common here, it has one of the lowest rates of homicide in Mexico (10 times lower than the rest of the country).

Many travelers report that taking public transport around the peninsula is safe during the day. However, like the rest of Mexico, it’s advised not to travel around at night . Carjackings have been reported, most occurring at night or on desolate roads.

A common scam targeting visitors is money switching, particularly at gas stations. You may hand over a 500 peso note and the attendant swiftly changes it for a 50 peso note, insisting you need to pay more. Make sure when you hand over the correct amount, keep your eyes on them and don’t leave until you have the correct change.

Mexico is generally very affordable, but the Yucatan Peninsula is slightly more expensive than other parts of Mexico that receive less tourism. Budget travelers can survive on around US$40 – $50 per day.

My 10-Day Yucatan  Itinerary

• Day 1: Arrive in Cancun
• Day 2: Valladolid
• Day 3: Day Trip to Ek Balam
• Day 4: Day Trip to Chichen Itza
• Days 5-7: Merida
• Day 8-10: Tulum

Yucatan Itinerary Day 1: Arrive in CANCUN

Begin your 2-week Mexico itinerary in Cancun. If you’re coming a long way here, then spend a few nights at a resort in Cancun and have some downtime. Check out our list of fun things to do in Cancun and where to stay in Cancun . But for those who don’t like lazing at an all-inclusive resort (like us), I recommend heading straight to Valladolid.

Calm and unpretentious Valladolid is one of the best kept secrets of the  Yucatan Peninsula . Despite being the closest town to  Chichen Itza, Valladolid is surprisingly quiet and laidback. It’s a 2-hour drive away from Cancun, on a new tolled highway.

Listed as one of Mexico’s  pueblo magico  (magical towns), Valladolid is lined with cobblestoned streets, pastel colored houses and old colonial buildings converted into art galleries or indie boutiques. It also has a large Mayan population — you’ll see plenty of locals walking around in traditional dress and lots of the restaurants serving typical Mayan dishes.

Budget: Casa Hipil

A lovely homely budget option, this place feels more like a guesthouse than a hotel and even has a lounge and communal kitchen. It’s warm and welcoming with clean and comfortable en suite rooms. Check rates here.

Midrange: Hotel Colonial Zaci

Located just one block from the main central square, Hotel Colonial Zaci is a graceful and elegant choice. Rooms feature dark wood furniture and beautifully-patterned tiles on the floor, but also feel modern and updated. There’s also a lovely central courtyard to relax in. Check rates here. 

Luxury: Le Muuch

One of the best and newest hotels in Valladolid, Le Muuch is full of charm and color. Open-air public spaces feel jungle-like with lots of plants and foliage. Individually-decorated rooms are themed around different precious stones and feature added touches such as a hammock, traditional cookies and local Mexican coffee. Check rates here.

Don’t be fooled by the small size of Valladolid. There are actually many things to do in Valladolid , from exploring archaeological sites to cenotes and charming colonial architecture.

One of the best things to do in Valladolid is to wander around town aimlessly. It’s such a pleasure strolling along the streets, admiring the pastel colored houses and wondering what surprise is in store around each corner.

The most photogenic street in Valladolid is the Calzada de los Frailes, which has been tastefully restored with indie boutiques, museums, and small cafes. Be sure to stop at  Idilio Folklore Cervecero , a stylish restaurant that offers a small museum and beer tasting sessions.

Valladolid is unique in the fact that it boasts a cenote right in the center of town: the Cenote Zaci . While beautiful and easy to get to, it’s not the most spectacular of the Cenote’s close to Valladolid. One of the best we visited was Cenote Saamal , a very deep cenote with a gorgeous tumbling waterfall. Just grab a taxi from the central square to get there.

In the evening, head out to the elegant San Bernardino Convent , where you’ll see video mapping and colored lights are projected onto the sides of the complex. The projections tell the story of Valladolid and its history in a beautiful and magical way. Check with the Tourist Information Office on the main square as to the days and timings.

Yucatan Itinerary Day 3:  Ek Balam

I’m a big fan of cenotes: they’re in essence natural sinkholes or caves that contain water. Cenotes were commonly used for water supplies by the ancient Maya, and occasionally for sacrificial offerings. Of all the cenotes I’ve been, my absolute favorite is   Cenote Suytun .

Yes, it’s risen to enormous fame thanks to Instagram, but it’s one of those rare few places that’s actually as magical as it appears in photos. I took the following photos with my iPhone (no filter!) and didn’t need any fancy photography equipment.

If you visit first thing in the morning (9am) like we did, you’ll avoid the crowd and be able to capture the famous sunbeam (provided it’s sunny). It’s only a 12-minute drive from Valladolid. Read my guide to visiting Cenote Suytun .

A 20-minute drive from Cenote Suytun is the spectacular and less-visited archaeological site, Ek Balam . It’s equally impressive but far less commercialised (you won’t find any vendors here!). Read my guide to Ek Balam ruins .

It’s also still possible to climb to the top of the pyramids. At 100 feet (29m) high,  the Acropolis  is the tallest structure in Ek Balam. A spectacular view awaits at the top: ancient pyramids poking above the tree canopy and lush green jungles for as far as the eye can see!

Midway to the top of the pyramids is the tomb of Ek Balam’s powerful ruler, Ukil-Kan-Lek-Tok, who reigned during the city’s peak in 800 A.D. The tomb is being restored, but you can see carvings, paintings, and murals.

Next to the archaeological site of Ek Balam is the wild and rugged Cenote X’canche .We absolutely loved the wild and atmospheric setting of this cenote. It’s surrounded by the jungle, with tree roots hanging over the spearmint blue water and rickety wooden bridges running along the sides of the cenote. There’s also a zipline over head, which our 6.5 year old daughter loved!

Best of all, it was actually empty when we visited on a Saturday afternoon, and we had the whole place to ourselves.

Yucatan Itinerary Day 4: Chichen Itza

One of the highlights for any first-time visitor to the Yucatan Peninsula is surely Chichen Itza , one of the country’s most celebrated Mayan archaeological sites. An important Mayan-Toltec city it spans a thousand years of history. Today, a UNESCO World Heritage Site , it ranks #1 on the best things to do in  Yucatan .

It’s only a 30-minute drive from Valladolid, but I recommend leaving early and reaching the site around 8am, before all the day-trippers arrive from Cancun. I also suggest hiring a guide, as there aren’t many plaques or information. Read my guide on how to get to Chichen Itza .

No trip to Chichen Itza is complete without a swim in the Cenote Ik Kil , a sinkhole that is connected to Chichen Itza by a raised pathway. It’s said that this large natural well may have given Chichen Itza (“Well of the Itzáes”) its name.

The use of the Sacred Cenote was exclusively ceremonial. Over the years, the water has yielded many artifacts including gold, jade, copper, shells and the bones of around 200 people who were thrown in as a sacrifice.

This cenote isn’t my favorite, as it’s the most commercialized that we visited (artificial stairways, lookout points and too many tour groups). But with an almost perfect circular opening and lush green vegetation dangling over the water, the cenote definitely has a stunning setting.

Cost: 150 Pesos ($7.50) per person

Yucatan Itinerary Day 5:  Merida

Start by strolling along the Paseo de Montejo, a tree-lined street flanked by the most beautiful buildings in Merida. Walk the whole length of 2 miles or 3.2km, and make stops at the numerous cute cafes and chic shops along the way. Read our full list of 30 best things to do in Merida .

Budget: Hotel & Hostal Boutique Casa Garza

A beautiful budget option for solo travelers, this centrally-located hostel has beautiful rooms with a garden, terrace and small pool. Check rates here.

Yucatan Itinerary Day 6:  Merida

Dating back to 1892, the Palacio de Gobierno (Government Palace) houses Yucatan state’s executive government offices and it’s open to the public. You’ll find murals and oil paintings by local artist Fernando Castro Pacheco, depicting the Yucatan Peninsula’s history.

A 20-minute drive from Merida is the Gran Museo del Mundo Maya (Mayan World Museum), which houses the largest collection of Mayan art and artifacts in the Yucatan Peninsula. It’s lauded as the best museum in Merida, so it’s worth a trip for art and history lovers. Note: it’s closed on Tuesdays.

Pok Ta Pok is an ancient Mayan game that was played thousands of years ago. The ball game was part of a sacred, sacrificial ceremony, pitting good against evil. The winner (yes, winner!) of the game was sacrificed, which was then the highest honor bestowed on a Mayan player.

On Friday nights at 8-9pm, the ancient sport is reenacted in front of Merida Cathedral – luckily though, sans sacrifice. It’s fun to watch and it gets pretty crazy towards the end, when the ball is literally ON FIRE, prompting faster passes, for sure.

Yucatan Itinerary Day 7:  Uxmal Day Trip

Yucatan Itinerary Day 8:  Drive to Tulum

Even so, the area near the beach hasn’t been overly built up and the jungle comes right down the sand. Beyond the beach, you’ll also find  cenotes (sinkholes filled with crystal clear waters), secluded lagoons, turtle reserves, and fascinating Mayan ruins that have been tumbled and shaped by time. Check out our list of best things to do in Tulum .

The town itself doesn’t have any particular attractions, but it’s great for tacos and vegan food. For lunch, there are some great places to dine in town. If you’re a vegetarian, I highly recommend La Hoja Verde , which offers lots of typical Mexican dishes with vegetarian alternatives. The other place I absolutely loved was Burrito Amor , who make their own deliciously spicy sauces.

Budget: Che Tulum Hostel

Situated in the center of Tulum Town, this may be a budget choice, but it still offers an outdoor pool and fun hip vibe. There are both private and dorm rooms available, as well as lockers and free wi-fi. They also rent bikes, so you can easily cycle to the beach. Check the rates here.

Midrange: Coco Hacienda

Sitting on the edge of town, the Coco Hacienda is a great option for those who don’t want to pay the high prices on the beach, but still enjoy being surrounded by nature. As it is located a bit out of the center, the hotel has a large tropical garden filled with palms and banana fronds. It’s built in a rustic colonial style and has two tranquil swimming pools. Check the rates here.

Luxury: The Beach

As the name suggests, this gorgeous eco-boutique hotel sits right on the beach and offers a boho-chic vibe with a rustic charm. The luxurious thatched cottages offer private plunge pools and hammocks, while the communal areas feature several pools hidden amongst the jungle foliage. There are also free yoga classes each morning. Check the rates here.

Yucatan Itinerary Day 9: Tulum Ruins

You can’t travel to Yucatan without visiting the Tulum Archeological Zone . The area is filled with Mayan ruins, which sit high above the turquoise Caribbean Sea, as well as numerous iguana and tropical flora. Remember to bring your bathing suit as there are a few lovely white sand beaches, which can only be accessed from the site.

After a busy day under the sun, head to the Gran Cenote , a gorgeous sinkhole filled with clear turquoise-colored waters, partly open to the sky and partly under an enchanting cave. Remember to bring a mask and snorkel with you (or rent one when you’re there) as a variety of fish and turtles live beneath the surface.

 Itinerary Day 10: Fly Home!

If you have some extra time before your flight, I recommend doing a day trip from Tulum checking out cenotes and wilderness reserves in the area. Some of my favorite cenotes include Car Wash Cenote, Cenote Cristal and Cenote Escondido . Each one is totally unique and beautiful in its own way.

• Buy a Mexican SIM card before you start this Yucatan road trip.  Having internet data will make it easier to navigate, do research on the go and contact hotels etc. You can get a Telmex SIM card from OXXO for less than $10.
• Pump your gas in advance, don’t wait until your gas tank is completely empty. We always use PEMEX (the petrol kiosk withe the best prices), as we’ve always found the staff to be reliable. They always pump it for you, though they expect a small tip.
• Try to avoid driving at night, as you won’t be able to see the speed bumps.
• That brings me to my next point —   you’ll find MANY speed bumps (topes) on the roads of Yucatan, including on the federal highway. Some of them are treacherous, so make sure you slow down when you see a sign that says ‘TOPE’.
• Don’t leave anything visible in your car, to avoid break-ins and theft. We always leave anything we have in the trunk.
• Parking is super easy anywhere in the Yucatan Peninsula . In the city centers, there are usually street parking (marked by white squares) and green parking meters for paying. You simply key in your license plate number and throw in a few coins (average cost is 10 pesos/hour). Once outside the center, parking is free.

For those who are planning to travel more of Mexico, check out other articles I’ve written on Mexico:

• 35 Fun Things to Do in the Yucatan Peninsula
• 30 Cool Things to Do in Tulum
• 20 Best Day Trips from Tulum
• 30 Fun Things to Do in Playa del Carmen
• 30 Best Things to Do in Merida
• 20 Cool Things to Do in Valladolid, Mexico
• My Guide to Isla Holbox Mexico
• 10-Day Oaxaca Road Trip Itinerary
• 10-Day Baja California Itinerary
• 10-Day Guanajuato Itinerary
• 10-Day Copper Canyon Itinerary

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15 thoughts on “Yucatan Road Trip: My 10-Day Yucatan Itinerary [2024]”

thanks for this trip plan! A few good ideas for me.

peeked at your WildJunket very quickly…and my first thought was:

The true voyage of discovery is not in going to new places, but in seeing with new eyes. – Marcel Proust

And this is coming from 80+ country traveler….most of recent travels – past decade, most places have been to countries I’ve already been to – but certain specific places.

Most unexplored place in the world…is looking back at you in the mirror….ever heard of a True Mirror?

anyway…like your photos of the Yucatan. 2nd trip to Yucatan next year…but will rent car, so not dependent on tours, buses, guides.

Thanks very much for the kinds words! Interesting stuff.. I need to go read up on True Mirror!

I think one thing to mention is that MERIDA is a HUGE CITY / area of 1.2 million people. which may come as a shock to anyone traveling in Yucatan. There is no other city larger than 100,000 people (Per wiki).

All your lodging choices (Look nice) are smack dab in the middle of the city…which I guess is ok if you arrive by bus or what not…but I’m not driving through that mess of streets in a car. Don’t use GPS – just printed maps (sometimes I print google maps out) and sense of direction.

Want to visit the Gran Museo del Mundo Maya, but that’s on the fringe a little, on a major street. I think staying in Progreso is a better choice or Ixmal. Or for a visit to Uxmal, right near Uxmal in small towns.

You’ve added several days to my planned trip!

Ah yes.. Merida is a big city, but honestly the town center doesn’t feel that way. It feels rather quaint and small to me. We drove our car and stayed in the center of the historical city. The streets aren’t too messy or hectic to navigate and there’s not a lot of traffic. We parked the car at the hotel and mostly walked everywhere, but used to it to explore outside of the historic center like the Gran Museo del Mundo Maya and Uxmal. Progreso does look pretty laidback (I made a new friend who lives there) and we definitely want to visit someday!

ok..took a closer look…if one stays on the main drag or two, easy to avoid 99% of all other streets…so staying in the center is not as bad as I thought.

Also I see the sequential street numbering, so not hard to get around from that angle.

Progreso still looks more peaceful for the $! 🙂 We’ll see…

Hi! Your information about the Yucatan is awesome. Can one safely travel with small children?

hi Rachel, yes! We live in the Yucatan Peninsula (specifically Playa del Carmen) with our 7-year-old daughter and we feel safe traveling around the region with her. The area is great for kids because of all the outdoorsy activities available, like cenote-hopping, exploring Mayan ruins, and beach combing.

Hi Nellie, your 10-day road trip around the Yucatan Peninsula sounds great. I was curious how much downtime there is factored in. My wife and I are going on a 8/9 day trip at the end of November and I want to make sure we don’t end up rushing around too much. How would you adapt the trip to allow enough downtime? Any suggestions you can give would be much appreciated. Thanks, Phil

hi Phil, thanks for dropping in! Honestly, there’s not a lot of downtime factored in. If you want to allow for some downtime, I would suggest removing Uxmal from the itinerary (since you’ll be seeing Chichen Itza, Ek Balam and Tulum ruins) and then spending the day relaxing in Merida or even going to Tulum earlier to chill on the beach. You can also skip the cenotes in Tulum since you’d have visited a few in Valladolid (which in my opinion are better there). Hope this helps!

Just wondering if it’s possible to do 5 days of all inclusive resort and 4 days of road trip. Do you know if I can book separately?

hi Cathy, oh it’s all up to you and what kind of travel you like. I personally don’t like all inclusive resorts but it’s easy to see why it appeals to so many people. You can definitely book it yourself and then hire a car to do the road trip yourself. If you need some ideas on where to stay, check out this Cancun article I’ve written. From there, you can do a short road trip to just Valladolid, Chichen Itza, and Cenote Suytun. Alternatively, if you prefer to stay on the coast, then you can head down to Tulum, see the Tulum ruins and explore the cenotes near there. I’ve written about all these destinations so feel free to search on my site.

Great itinerary! We have been to Mexico several times and done road trips. We felt that it was safe, and smooth sailing. I think I have been to all the places on your list! We love visiting cenotes, Mayan ruins, and places in the cities.

Hi Nellie, just want to thank you so much for all of the wonderful tips you have provided! We have 6 nights booked in Merida at an AirBnB, and another 7 nights in the Yucatan area. Your advice is helping me to plan a route and narrow down where we should stay for the later half of the trip. Thanks again from Canada.

Aww Kathie, thank you for the very kind comment! I’m so glad you’ve found my tips helpful! Have a great trip in the Yucatan Peninsula. 🙂

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The Ultimate 10 Day Yucatan Road Trip Itinerary

For several years, Mexico has consistently ranked among our favorite countries in the world to explore–and after our most recent return visit to take a Yucatan road trip, we are more confident than ever that it will never be unseated. 

Between the overwhelming number of interesting sights, absolutely sublime food, and incredibly welcoming culture, we can never get enough of Mexico.

With this 10 day Yucatan itinerary, we hope we can help you fall in love with it too!

Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula is one of those just-right destinations that is easy enough to travel in that newer travelers will feel comfortable exploring, and fascinating enough that veteran travelers will never be bored.

Between the Mayan cities and mystical cenotes, the colorful towns and delicious food, the lagoon of Bacalar and the stunning beaches the region is known for, a Yucatan road trip truly has something for everyone.

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

Table of Contents

How We Structured This Yucatan Road Trip Itinerary

Why choose the yucatan for a mexico road trip, getting around during your road trip in the yucatan, will this 10 day yucatan itinerary work without a car, other destinations to add to your yucatan road trip itinerary, useful driving tips for this mexico road trip itinerary, faq about taking a road trip in the yucatan peninsula, yucatan road trip itinerary map, the best time to road trip the yucatan peninsula, what to pack for your yucatan road trip.

We structured this Yucatan road trip itinerary to center around some of our favorite things to do in the Yucatan: explore Mayan ruins, swim in cenotes, and enjoy beautiful beaches.

We are covering the Yucatan peninsula here, not just the state of Yucatan, and much of this Yucatan travel itinerary does take place in Quintana Roo.

It’s a fairly fast-paced itinerary in the sense that it packs a lot in and involves climbing many pyramids, but to drive this route straight through without traffic would actually only take around 12 hours.

You’ll drive a bit more than that, counting day trips and such, but the bottom line is that it’s a very doable distance in 10 days!

We’ve included some of Mexico’s biggest tourist highlights here, including Chichen Itza, while also throwing in up-and-coming spots like Bacalar, and organized them in a loop beginning and ending in Cancun (aka, the biggest airport hub in the region by far).

This guide to spending 10 days in the Yucatan is quite long, so feel free to use the table of contents above this section to navigate to the most important parts for you if you wish!

When looking for the perfect road trip in Mexico or even all of Latin America, the Yucatan peninsula immediately shoots up to the top of the list.

The peninsula is known as one of the safest regions for tourists in all of Mexico (and for the record, we have always felt incredibly safe not only there but everywhere we’ve been in Mexico), the driving is very lowkey, and the sights, from the ruins of Mayan cities to beaches to colorful towns to the peninsula’s world-famous cenotes, are sublime.

With a flawless combination of safety, ease of travel, and unforgettable sights, it’s hard to imagine a more perfect Mexico road trip than one through the Yucatan.

The best company to rent a car for your road trip in Mexico from will likely vary dramatically depending on exactly when you’re traveling.

Sometimes large international carriers offer the best prices, sometimes local outfits. Sometimes one company has an excellent base price, but terrible rental requirements.

The best way to find your rental car is to search through  Discover Cars , which will sift through dozens of companies to find the best combination of low prices and reasonable rental terms for your Yucatan road trip.

Check prices and shop rental cars for your Yucatan road trip today!

Parts of it, yes, but it would be more of a hassle to reach some spots.

Mexico’s ADO bus network is impressive, incredibly comfortable (some of the most comfortable buses we’ve ridden on anywhere, quite frankly), and can easily get you around the peninsula, including all the way down to Bacalar.

For smaller day trips like visiting Ek Balam and the cenotes around Valladolid , though, you’d need to either negotiate a taxi (not terribly difficult, but a hassle, especially if you’re not comfortable negotiating in Spanish), jump in a collectivo, or book a tour.

There’s no doubt that driving will make this particular 10 day Yucatan itinerary much easier and more flexible, but if you can’t or would prefer not to drive, you can still have an incredibly rewarding trip to the peninsula using this Yucatan travel guide.

Day 1: Arrive in Cancun and head to Valladolid.

Assuming you arrive in Cancun early enough in the day to reach Valladolid before sunset, we highly recommend grabbing your rental car at the airport and then immediately hitting the road!

If your flight arrives in the late afternoon or evening, though, you’ll want to spend your first night in Cancun itself and then get an early start by driving to Valladolid the next morning.

Valladolid is a little under 2 hours from Cancun by car.

Day 2: Explore Valladolid and check out nearby cenotes.

The colorful, small city of Valladolid is a laid-back and delightful place to explor.

The Zocalo, cathedral, and the Convent of San Bernardino de Siena are all worth a look, as are the many delicious restaurants and the colorful street of Calzada de los Frailes.

The main reason that Valladolid is a favorite for people exploring the Yucatan, though, is not for the charming city that is itself one of Mexico’s Pueblos Magicos (Magic Towns), but for what lies outside of it.

Valladolid is located at the perfect epicenter of many of the area’s best day trips, including several cenotes and Mayan ruins.

For the first several days of this Mexico road trip, we recommend basing yourselves here–the next few days of this Yucatan itinerary are designed as day trips from Valladolid.

For today, start your stay in Valladolid by exploring the town and potentially by checking out a few of the nearby cenotes.

Instagram-famous Cenote Suytun is less than 15 minutes from town by car, as is the complex housing both Cenote Samula and Cenote Xkeken.

Too tired to drive anymore but still want to check out a cenote today?

No worries–Cenote Zaci is certainly not the most impressive of these cenotes, but it does win points for being right in the center of town!

Where to Stay in Valladolid

Valladolid has a fantastic selection of places to stay, ranging from budget hostels to beautiful boutique hotels. 

Here are some of the best, including the hotel we adored on our most recent visit!

Hostel Candelaria — Featuring a perfect location in the center of Valladolid, colorful decor, hundreds of near-perfect reviews and plenty of dorm and private room lodging options, Hostel Candelaria is a go-to choice for budget travelers to Valladolid.

Check rates & book your stay at Hostel Candelaria!

Casa Aluxes Hotel — We absolutely adored our stay at this boutique hotel. The breakfast is fantastic, the service perfect, the inner courtyard and pools beautiful, and their location excellent. When we return to Valladolid yet again, we’ll definitely consider staying again.

Check rates & book your stay at Casa Aluxes Hotel!

Le Muuch Hotel — This luxury hotel in Valladolid offers spacious family rooms, excellent service, and a fantastic breakfast, all housed in a convenient location within walking distance of Valladolid’s major sights.

The grounds include two beautiful pools, and the hotel’s hundreds of excellent reviews make it a sure bet when visiting Valladolid.

Check rates & book your stay at Le Muuch Hotel!

Day 3: Visit Chichen Itza and Cenote Ik Kil.

For your first day trip from Valladolid, head to none other than Mexico’s most famous Mayan ruin and one of the 7 New Wonders of the World: Chichen Itza.

We highly recommend showing up very, very early, and entering the park as soon as it opens at 8:00 AM if you want to avoid the worst of the crowds.

Most of the big tour buses bringing visitors in by the hundreds from Cancun, Tulum, and Playa del Carmen won’t show up until an hour or two after that, giving you a bit of time to explore the ruins in relative peace.

After you finish up at Chichen Itza itself, be sure to take a dip in nearby Cenote Ik Kil!

Day 4: Visit Ek Balam and Cenote X’canche.

I’ll be honest: I intentionally scheduled Chichen Itza as the first Mayan city on this Yucatan itinerary, not only because I know just about everyone wants to visit, but because the other Mayan cities you will visit after it–in my biased opinion–blow it out of the water.

Ek Balam is located about half an hour from Valladolid, and in contrast with bustling Chichen Itza the previous day, will likely feel downright deserted.

With far fewer crowds and plenty of structures that you can climb, visiting Ek Balam is an absolute delight and one of our personal favorite stops on this Yucatan road trip.

Located in the same complex of sorts–you won’t need to move your car again–is Cenote X’canche, which is arguably our favorite cenote that we’ve seen on the peninsula as well!

Featuring brilliantly beautiful water, a slightly wild feel, and a waterfall, Cenote X’canche is one of those places where it is easy to understand why the Mayan religion purports that cenotes are the entrances to the underworld.

Day 5: Make your way to Tulum.

On day 5 of your Mexico road trip, it’s time to say goodbye to Valladolid and head for the beach!

Tulum is about an hour and a half away from Valladolid, giving you plenty of time to make your way back to the coast and then visit the famous Tulum ruins and beach.

While the ruins are certainly more crowded than Ek Balam from yesterday, their setting just cannot be beat–the views of the Mayan city overlooking the phenomenal beach are just magnificent.

Be sure to bring your swimsuit along: your ticket to visit the Tulum ruins also includes access to the beach, and you’ll definitely want to spend a few hours there!

When it comes time to find somewhere to stay for the night, you absolutely can stay in Tulum itself, but be prepared for some serious sticker shock: Tulum is not only expensive as compared to other cities in Mexico, it’s just expensive, period.

If you’d like to save a little cash, consider staying outside of Tulum instead–there are plenty of options, from luxury accommodation to hostels to boutique hotels, a 20-30 minute drive down the road.

One of the major benefits of being on a Yucatan road trip rather than a traditional itinerary is that you can take advantage of flexibility like that!

Optional Yucatan Road Trip Stop: Coba.

Still dreaming of more Mayan ruins?

With three archaeological sites in three days included on this Yucatan itinerary, you quite possibly will not, but it’s worth pointing out that as you drive from Valladolid to Tulum, you’ll pass right by the Coba ruins, which also make for a delightful place to explore.

Less popular (read: crowded) than Chichen Itza, but more crowded than Ek Balam, Coba boasts some stunning structures in a forested setting, and you can climb the main pyramid for beautiful views over the jungle.

Day 6: Road trip Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula to Bacalar.

On day 6, it’s time to head to the most up-and-coming destination on this 10 day Yucatan itinerary, a place we’ve heard described as “what Tulum was 30 years ago”: Bacalar.

The drive from Tulum to Bacalar takes less than 3 hours, so depending on time you could spend the morning in Tulum before heading down, or stop at Sian Ka’an Biosphere to see another magnificent part of the Yucatan peninsula.

Alternatively, you could wake up early and head right to Bacalar to maximize your time at this otherworldly lagoon–more on it below.

Day 7: Enjoy Mexico’s Lagoon of Seven Colors.

Look out over the beauty of the Bacalar Lagoon, and you may just be convinced that you’ve been transported to the Maldives or to an obscure Pacific atoll.

You’ll almost certainly have a hard time comprehending that the brilliant blue you see doesn’t come from a sea or ocean of any kind, but from a freshwater lagoon.

Bacalar, both the town and the lagoon it is named after, is a sleepy, beautiful place where it’s easy to kick back, relax, and enjoy some truly unique nature.

While you’re there, consider taking a boat tour to discover the best swimming spots and viewpoints on the lagoon, checking out the rapids (basically a natural lazy river), and hopping down to one of the beach clubs for a swim and some food served up with incredible views.

Back in town, be sure to visit Fort San Felipe, which was built by the Spanish in the 18th century to defend against the real-life pirates of the Caribbean that attacked the town.

For dinner, we can heartily recommend La Playita–one of the best-known spots in town with one of the best restaurant views imaginable–and also La Pina, which isn’t located right on the lake but has an impressive garden atmosphere all the same.

Where to Stay in Bacalar

We recommend spending two nights visiting Bacalar as part of this Yucatan road trip–here are some great options for where to stay.

Blue Hotel — With comfortable rooms, affordable prices, and excellent service, Blue Hotel is a fantastic choice for travelers visiting Bacalar on a budget.

While the hotel is located a bit further from the center of town than most, in Bacalar, that’s not a problem when you’re on a Yucatan road trip–you’ll probably drive to most attractions anyway.

Check rates & book your stay at Blue Hotel!

Hotel Tuparenda — We loved this boutique hotel in Bacalar–so much, in fact, that when we doubled back to Bacalar on our Mexico road trip, we returned for a second stay here!

The location is excellent (a short walk from La Playita), rooms comfortable, and service wonderful.

The rooftop, where the included breakfast is served and there is a small pool, has a lovely view of the lagoon in the distance!

Check rates & book your stay at Hotel Tuparenda!

Maya Bacalar Boutique Hotel — Want to stay directly on the lake, with a restaurant and spa located on-site and no reason to leave?

If so, check yourself in for relaxation and pampering at the popular and well-reviewed Maya Bacalar Boutique Hotel for a taste of luxury… at far more affordable prices than a similar accommodation would go for in Tulum or Playa del Carmen.

Check rates & book your stay at Maya Bacalar Boutique Hotel!

Day 8: Head to Playa del Carmen, stopping at Akumal on the way.

At this point during your Yucatan road trip itinerary, things become a bit choose-your-own-adventure by virtue of the fact that there is so much to do between Bacalar and your eventual destination of Cancun, where you’ll say goodbye to Mexico in a couple of days.

Our suggestion is to head to Playa del Carmen (we loved our time at Isabella Boutique Hotel if you’re looking for an adorable but not insanely expensive place to stay), which is about a 3.5-hour drive from Bacalar and will put you both much closer to Cancun and in the heart of plenty of things to do in the Yucatan.

Along the way, consider stopping off at Akumal to cross a major highlight off of your Yucatan bucket list: swimming with sea turtles.

Day 9: Cross one more thing off your Mexico bucket list. 

With one more day of your Yucatan road trip left and an excellent central base in or near Playa del Carmen, the Riviera Maya is your oyster.

Here are a few of our suggestions for what to do on the last day of your road trip in the Yucatan…

Go for a swim in a cenote (or two).

Playa del Carmen is surrounded by absolutely stunning cenotes, including Cristalino, Jardin del Eden, and Cenote Azul.

Have a beach day at Xpu-Ha.

While the beaches in Playa del Carmen proper are not among the best on the Riviera Maya, Xpu-Ha, which is located just a short drive outside of town, is absolutely amazing and a fantastic place to kick back and relax.

Go snorkeling or scuba diving.

The stunning island of Cozumel is located very close to Playa del Carmen, and is especially well-known for its incredible scuba diving and snorkeling! Whether you book a day trip from Playa del Carmen or hop one of the many ferries over to Cozumel yourself, you’ll be able to find excellent snorkeling opportunities.

Prefer to go underground?

Snorkeling in an enclosed cenote is an unforgettable experience.

Day 10: Return to Cancun and say goodbye (for now) to Mexico.

As your Yucatan road trip comes to a close, it’s time to return to Cancun.

Before saying goodbye to Yucatan travel, though, consider hitting the beach one last time if you have time before heading to the airport!

Cancun has some of the best beaches in Mexico, and some are absolutely free to visit, including the positively magnificent Playa Delfines.

A mere 10 days in the Yucatan could never hope to cover all the incredible peninsula has to offer.

If you have a longer Yucatan itinerary to work with, here are a few other places to consider adding onto your Yucatan road trip!

I specifically didn’t include popular Isla Mujeres or Isla Holbox in this Yucatan travel blog post, as they’re decidedly not road trip destinations, but we adore them both and they’re definitely worth considering adding to your itinerary for the Yucatan as well!

In fact, we started our most recent trip to the Yucatan peninsula with a few days on Isla Mujeres before picking up our rental car, and couldn’t recommend the experience more.

The pink lakes of Las Coloradas, Mexico have become increasingly #instagramfamous in the last few years, and they are still one of the most unique places to visit in the Yucatan!

They are actually private reservoirs belonging to a salt company, not natural lakes at all, but they are incredibly interesting to look at.

Visiting has become more regimented over the years, and these days you’ll be charged a small fee to enter and be required to keep a guide with you, and you definitely can’t swim in the lakes.

If you’d like to see them for yourself, they’re a doable day trip from Valladolid (a little under 2 hours of easy driving each way).

The colorful, beautiful ex-pat haven of Merida is incredibly popular with visitors planning long stays in the Yucatan, but it’s quite far out of the way for this Yucatan itinerary that focuses more on the southern and central parts of the peninsula.

If you have longer than 10 days in the Yucatan, though, definitely consider stopping by to explore some of the best things to do in Merida .

It’s a beautiful, colorful city with lots of amazing food to offer, and is also the capital of the state of Yucatan.

Buried deep in the jungle in the state of Campeche, Calakmul is one of the most difficult Mayan ruins to get to, but it’s also one of the most rewarding.

Climb atop the pyramids there, and you will see nothing but ruins surrounded by lots and lots of jungle.

If you look closely on a clear day, you may even spot the tip of La Danta, a pyramid in modern-day Guatemala that once stood in the lost city of El Mirador and is–by some measures–the tallest pyramid in the world.

The city of Izamal is located vaguely between Valladolid and Merida, and is known primarily for its brilliant color–much of the town is painted bright yellow!

Be sure to check out the Convent of San Antonio of Padua, the beautiful (yellow) architecture downtown, and the markets while there.

Our current favorite archaeological site in Mexico is located only an hour and a half north of Bacalar, making it easy to add on to your Mexico road trip!

Becan is uncrowded, inexpensive, incredibly well-preserved, and a true hidden gem on the Yucatan peninsula. 

If you’re looking for a memorable side trip while traveling the Yucatan, we can’t recommend a visit to Becan enough!

Plan to drive only during the day.

With lots of speed bumps (more on that below) and very few street lights, the Yucatan peninsula is not an ideal place to drive at night. 

Luckily, this Yucatan road trip itinerary should make it fairly easy to drive during the day only–most days include only a couple of hours of driving.

Keep an eye on the time (zone).

This itinerary covers destinations in both the state of Quintana Roo and the state of Yucatan.

Despite being right next door to each other and frequently covered on the same trip, these Mexican states are in different time zones!

Quintana Roo uses Eastern Standard Time, and Yucatan uses Central Standard Time.

Typically, someone will pump your gas for you.

Most frequently, when you pull up to the gas pump in Mexico, someone will pump your gas for you as well as clean your windshield. You’ll want to provide a small tip for the service.

If you don’t see someone servicing the pumps, though, you can also pump your own gas in some places, so keep an eye on what others are doing!

… but be sure to check the pump to avoid scams.

There’s a known gas station scam in the Yucatan in which you’ll be charged extra because the gas pump isn’t set to $0.00 before the attendant starts pumping your gas.

This has never happened to us, but we’ve heard of fellow travelers experiencing it!

Luckily, the way to avoid it is very simple: if you’re not pumping your own gas, be sure to look at the pump and confirm it’s set to zero before the attendant starts to pump.

Keep an eye out for topes.

Topes (in English, speed bumps) are the major way that speed limits are enforced in the Yucatan peninsula, especially in towns and other population centers.

Go over them too fast, and you’ll throw out the suspension of your rental car–proceed carefully and when in doubt, go slow.

Don’t leave anything visible in the car when you park.

This is truly good advice for most of the world, but it especially goes here: visible luggage and belongings left in a parked car can attract thieves.

Leave nothing visible.

Check for onsite parking when booking hotels.

It will make your life much simpler if there’s parking onsite at each place you stay in Mexico, and hotels with parking are very easy to find.

We’d consider it a road trip mistake to accidentally show up somewhere without parking!

Pick up a Mexican SIM card before you get started.

Having cell phone data with you will make your Mexico road trip through the Yucatan far, far simpler, and buying data is incredibly affordable.

To save time and hassle, consider picking up a SIM card for your phone before you even leave the airport.

Do you need to speak Spanish for this Yucatan road trip?

No, but it will make your trip much, much easier.

While you definitely don’t need to know how to speak Spanish well for this Yucatan itinerary, we recommend learning at least some basic phrases before you go.

How’s the driving?

Incredibly easy!

Truly, we found driving in the Yucatan to be far, far easier than driving in most places we’ve been in Europe. 

For most of this Yucatan road trip itinerary, you’ll be driving on flat, well-signed, uncongested highways.

After the initial few hours of getting used to driving in Mexico, we found our road trip to be extremely relaxing.

Like in virtually all places around the world, driving is a bit more complex and congested in and around large cities, but not overly difficult for confident drivers.

Is this road trip in Mexico safe?

Safety is a very complicated subject, of course (I discussed a bit more about safety in Mexico here ), but generally speaking, yes. 

While cartel violence is certainly a problem in Mexico, it very, very rarely touches tourists and even more rarely touches tourists who avoid going near illegal activities (don’t stumble out of a bar drunk at 3am and try to pick up a prostitute on the way home, basically).

We have spent months in Mexico, spread across many different states, and have always felt supremely safe–just as safe as we feel in an average town in the USA.

Our fellow American travelers do tend to stick to the Riviera Maya (basically the corridor between Cancun and Tulum), but every place on this Yucatan road trip itinerary has a fairly developed tourism structure, with plenty of hotels, restaurants, and tourism services.

Very generally speaking, the people traveling this route are made up of a combination of European and Canadian vacationers (including lots of young families!), as well as Mexican tourists exploring their own country and a fair number of long term travelers/people backpacking the Yucatan.

In other words, while these places are a bit off the beaten path for an average US citizen taking a week off of work to head down to Mexico, they’re not remotely intimidating places to travel once you get the hang of the route, and they feel very safe.

Take This Map With You! Click each highlight to pull up the name of the destination. To save this map to “Your Places” on Google Maps, click the star to the right of the title. You’ll then be able to find it under the Maps tab of your Google Maps account! To open the map in a new window, click the button on the top right of the map.

The high season for traveling the Yucatan Peninsula runs roughly from mid-December to April, with the biggest crowds (and highest prices) typically found around Christmas, New Yea’s, Spring Break, and Easter.

This is most prominent on the Riviera Maya, though–we’ve traveled the Yucatan peninsula extensively during high season on multiple trips, and have had no issues with crowds or extreme prices outside of Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum.

Hurricane season runs from June to November, and while the odds are long that your trip would be caught up in a hurricane, you can expect more rain and cloudy weather during your Mexico road trip during those months.

Lower prices and fewer crowds might very well be a solid trade-off, though, depending on your travel style.

Travel Insurance — We don’t ever suggest traveling without travel insurance–anything can happen, and a fast-paced Yucatan road trip is definitely better a case of safe than sorry.

We use and recommend Safety Wing for trips to Mexico.

Cell Phone Holder — This is especially important if you don’t have a reliable co-pilot: the last thing you want to do is be fumbling with the GPS on your phone during your road trip in the Yucatan.

Pack a cell phone holder to attach to the car and you’ll be able to drive much more safely!

Additional Car Insurance — Whether you purchase a policy that covers car rental (only some do, so double-check!), purchase a policy through the rental car company, or something else, be sure you have coverage: it’s worth the peace of mind.

Comfortable Day Bag  — We currently use  Pacsafe’s sleek anti-theft backpack  and love it, but if you don’t want to shell out the cash for this trip, that’s totally understandable.

Just aim for something comfortable to wear, not flashy, and medium-sized–we used a  Northface Jester backpack  for years and loved it as well.

I use them on all boats and the occasional bus, and if things get really bad, take some Non-Drowsy Dramamine as well.

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

28 thoughts on “The Ultimate 10 Day Yucatan Road Trip Itinerary”

This is basically my dream Mexico trip!!! My boyfriend and I had talked about going this year but obviously we’ll see. Either way saving this post for inspiration. We’ll definitely make sure to see that cenote at Ek Balam, wow.

Ahh I’m so happy to hear that Jessica! We truly love this part of the world so much, I just want to shout from the rooftops about it. SERIOUSLY hoping your trip can happen this year, for so many reasons.

Currently planning ours for next month!! Thank you so much

As a fan of this area for over 35 years, enjoyed reading your writings here. As far as shouting from the rooftops, I often feel maybe I have done that too much. Holbox and Bacalar are two places I have known for many years and often recommended. But now due to mass development they are both becoming almost unrecognizable to me and that is a sad thing.

Great post, Kate. We’re stuck up here in Ohio at the moment and would love to be on the beach in Mexico instead.

Thanks, Mark! Completely agree–we’d much rather be back on a beach in Mexico right now too.

This article was extremely helpful. Thank you for suggested itinerary and descriptions.

So happy to hear that, Beth! Hope you have a great trip to the Yucatan!

Do you think a road trip around the Yucatan would be at all feasible with a 1 year old? I think we’d have to make some modifications but overall do you feel like it would be safe and not an insane amount of driving?

Hi Michelle!

Yes, it’s absolutely doable with modifications (depending on the one-year-old in question, of course). We’ve always seen quite a few families out and about when in the Yucatan. Hotels and restaurants tend to be extremely welcoming to kids.

If you want to cut quite a bit of driving, you can trim off Bacalar to stay more central. Most of the driving distances in this itinerary are fairly short, coming in at 3 hours or less of driving a day.

I finally booked plane tickets to Mexico thanks to your blog! Thanks for all the inspiration. I’ll be following most of your itinerary!

Thank you so much, Allie, that makes my day! Hope you have an amazing trip!

Hi, thanks so much for your 10 day itinerary post. I’m trying to figure out which of the islands -mujeres or cozumel- to include given ill cut out chichen itza and coba probably, and bacalar as i want to minize driving time. Im travelling with a two year old so ruins may not be the best idea. Would really appreciate your thoughts.

Both islands are beautiful, but Cozumel is better known for diving and Mujeres for its beaches. You guys could have a great time in either, but if I had to choose, I’d say that Mujeres is probably a bit more toddler-friendly.

We (couple with 16 year old son) went to Cancun for the first time in March 2021 and really loved it! Planning a trip back in the spring of ’22. We split our time between Cancun, Isla Mujeres, and Puerto Morelos, including day trips to Coba, Tulum, and Akumal. Just wanted to add an update, though…unfortunately at the time we went there was no climbing at the ruins which had previously allowed it. We heard different reports of whether that was temporary due to COVID-19, or if that was permanent. Also, do watch out for gas station scams! (Search it on the internet…) I had read of some before we went and was prepared, but I was still pretty surprised when the very first place we stopped for gas the attendant used one of the scams to try to rip us off! We called him on it and he tried to talk his way out of it at first, but when we insisted on speaking to his boss he changed his tune and gave back the extra money. We totally would have been fooled if we hadn’t read about it first.

Hi Katie! Thanks so much for the additional information, sounds like you love the area as much as we do. So far I’ve only heard that climbing at Coba is limited due to COVID, but we’ll definitely keep an eye on whether it becomes permanent. Coba is beautiful but if you’re looking for even more ruins next time, Becan, Calakmul, and Ek Balam are all among our favorites.

Hi! What do you think of going on this trip in May?

You will be very, very hot! That wouldn’t be a deal-breaker for us, personally, especially since you’ll probably also benefit from a shoulder season dip in prices, but be prepared for soaring temperatures, especially inland.

The rainy season generally starts in June, so your odds of having sunny weather are solid (especially if you visit toward the beginning of the month), but be prepared to spend lots of time cooling off in the water.

Hello 🙂 thanks for a great post. we are planning the first night in Cancun as we arrive late. the next day we will drive to Valladolid early and have 1 night there. then we will travel to Tulum, and here my boyfriend and I are discussing, whether we should stay in Tulum and take day trips to Bacalar and Akumal or whether we should take overnight stays in Bacalar and playa del Carmen as you recommend. my boyfriend feels stressful changing hotel all the time and driving so much. did you find it stressful? and would you have done something different now if you could? we arrive March 2 and travel home March 11, 2022 – can we snorkel with sea turtles at this time? or is it only possible in the sea turtle season? thanks in advance. Sincerely, Christina

It all depends on your tastes, but I’d be more likely to stay somewhere other than Tulum and day trip to it rather than from it! The prices, crowds, and traffic are all much higher in Tulum than in the surrounding areas.

Basing yourself in fewer places and taking day trips is definitely much easier than changing hotels every night! That being said, driving in the Yucatan is pretty simple once you’re outside the larger cities.

The sea turtles are in Akumal year-round, you shouldn’t have any problem seeing them in March. 🙂

Hope you guys have a great trip!

Thank you for the great ideas and suggestions . We are planning on visiting Cancun in April 24, 2022. We are looking for transportation from Cancun Airport to Valladolid. We don’t want to rent a car, any suggestions? Thank you in advance

Sincerely, Estela

If you don’t want to drive, the easiest way is definitely to take the ADO bus! You’ll need to take one bus from the airport to the downtown terminal or Playa del Carmen, and then catch a bus to Valladolid.

The ADO buses are very comfortable and popular with travelers (but bring a jacket because they tend to blast the a/c).

Alternatively, you can hire a taxi or private transfer, but it will be very expensive!

Hi Kate – Thank you for all the great tips! We are trying to figure out how to rent a car after our trip to Isla Mujeres. Essentially we are flying into Cancun, going to Isla Mujeres and then renting a car to drive around the Riviera Maya. We’ll return the car. I tried the car rental place but I can’t figure out how to rent near the Isla Mujeres ferry. Any tips? Thank you!

Hi Mary! It’s just a quick cab ride from the ferry to the airport, where you can easily rent a car. Taking a taxi to the rental car agency will likely be the simplest way to get there.

Thanks a mill for this itinerary! We are planning 2-3 weeks for my big milestone birthday so having the different add-ons to extend the trip is so great 🙂

Just nervous about driving, as we drive on left side here in Ireland but I’m sure I’ll figure it out!

You definitely will! We’ve gone the opposite way (spent about a month in total driving in Ireland) and it wasn’t nearly as bad switching between the sides as we feared. 🙂

Hello, thanks for this great post! My husband and I were in this area 20 years ago but a lot has changed! We are considering traveling here with our kids (ages 16 & 12) in late June – early July. They are pretty experienced travelers and have been to different areas in MX a few times before. I’m just worried that the level of heat, rain & mosquitos might make the trip unpleasant. We were in Greece last summer and found that as long as we arranged our day to be in water, AC or driving for the middle part of the day we were fine, but that was dry heat. Any advice? Thanks much!

Hi Rebecca,

With the caveat that I spent my upbringing in very hot and humid climates (Texas, Florida, Oklahoma), I would say that generally speaking, the humidity will probably be more intense than in Greece but the general format of your trip will still be doable.

The heat will be more of an issue at the inland locations for sure, I’d definitely plan on some slow afternoons at cenotes and/or resting, and try to reach any ruins you visit first thing in the morning.

There will definitely be weather moments that can be described as unpleasant, but that personally wouldn’t be enough to keep me away from Mexico. 🙂

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Ultimate 2-Week Yucatan Itinerary in Mexico

Embark on an incredible journey to Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula: the Caribbean dream destination. From driving past the stunningly turquoise waters of the Riviera Maya to exploring ancient ruins and colorful colonial streets, there’s no shortage of amazing things to do in this part of Mexico . Add the region’s delicious (street)food, remarkable large cenotes, and vast jungles, and you’re set for quite the adventure. Discover all the best spots with this ultimate 2-week Yucatan itinerary.

Two weeks in the Yucatan Peninsula

The Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico has an incredible range of destinations, from bustling tourist hubs like Cancun and Tulum to historic colonial cities like Valladolid and Merida. Though you can get around with public transportation, this Yucatan itinerary is best traveled by car, allowing you to hop between the region’s beautiful beaches, cenotes, and Mayan ruins. 

Tip: Many people speak English in Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, but learning a few words in Spanish is always appreciated. Knowing how to greet people, order food and drinks, or ask for directions goes a long way!

Day 1: Arrival in Cancun

Start your Yucatan adventure in popular Cancun, known for its beaches, numerous resorts, and buzzing nightlife. As an iconic spring break destination, the city on the Caribbean coast immediately reveals one of the biggest draws to the region: the stunning turquoise sea. 

Take some time to recover from your flight by heading to the beach and grabbing some food at one of the restaurants. You’ll find the best beaches in the Zona Hotelera (Hotel Zone) , a long strip of soft sands and high-rise hotels. 

Tip: If you have time, it’s also an option to travel directly to Tulum . The boho town has an airport , though it’s much smaller and has fewer flights than Cancun. 

Where to Stay in Cancun 

In Cancún, the buzzing Hotel Zone is the perfect place for beach lovers, with pristine shores and vibrant nightlife. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a bit more authentic local experience with traditional markets and restaurants, choose a hotel in downtown Cancun . 

Hotels in Cancun 😴

Day 2-3: Tulum

Just 2 hours south of busy Cancun, you’ll find the slower, laid-back town of Tulum. With incredible white-sand beaches, jungles, Mayan ruins, and unique hotels , it makes the perfect destination to unwind on your Yucatan travel itinerary. 

Soak up the sun on the famous Tulum Beach that lies in front of the resorts of the Hotel Zone . With incredibly blue water and powdery sand, it’s a real slice of paradise and one of the main reasons people visit the Caribbean town.

Afterward, depending on where you’re staying, have dinner in the Hotel Zone or head to the vibrant Tulum Centro for some yummy tacos. Downtown Tulum also makes the perfect place to go boutique shopping or find some cool souvenirs!

Join this local food tour or vegan food tour in Tulum .

Tulum Cenotes and Ruins

Take your time to explore the area; head off on a half-day trip to hidden cenotes (also the best way to cool down on your Yucatan itinerary!) or walk amongst the ancient Mayan ruins that sit perched on the coast’s cliffs. You can tour the Tulum pyramids on your own or book a tour to learn more about the Peninsula’s rich history.

Read: Best things to do in Tulum, Mexico

How to Get to Tulum

Tulum is only 2 hours away from Cancun and is easy to get to by bus, car, or taxi. Rent a car in Cancun and drive south along the stunning coastline. Alternatively, hop on one of the ADO buses that leave for Tulum at the main bus terminal downtown ( book your tickets here ). Traveling by bus is generally the cheapest way of getting around the Yucatan in Mexico.

We recommend to rent a car in Mexico through Sunny Cars with free cancellation and insurance included. Book your rental car here .

Where to Stay in Tulum

Tulum has new accommodations pop up everywhere in town, with many dotted along the coastline ( Hotel Zone ). Prices are a bit higher here, but hotels include different amenities and have direct access to the beautiful beaches. You can also find good apartments and hotels downtown (Centro). 

Hotels in Tulum 😴

Day 4: Day Trip to Sian Ka’an

The Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve is the largest protected area on the Caribbean coast in Mexico, home to many animal species and stunning landscapes. Take a day to explore the jungle marshes, mangroves, cenotes, and vibrant blue lagoons in this protected UNESCO site.

Whether it’s relaxing in a hammock with your feet in the water of Laguna de Kaan Luum or walking through the jungle and past ancient Mayan ruins, Sian Ka’an offers a refreshing addition to your 2-week Yucatan itinerary. Cool off in the huge open cenote, float down man-made canals, and explore the Muyil ruins by booking an organized tour . 

Note: Due to the harsh chemicals in many sunscreens and bug sprays, you’re not allowed to wear them in the reserve (and many other places in Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula). Instead, choose a non-toxic bug spray and reef-safe sunscreen .

Here are all your hotel options in Tulum.

Day 5-7: Bacalar (Highlight of Yucatan)

Discover the magical town of Bacalar, one of the highlights of the Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico. This beautiful destination is known for its freshwater lagoon with shockingly turquoise water and vibrant downtown. Though it’s growing in popularity, it remains somewhat of a hidden gem, making it a must-see on your Yucatan itinerary.

Read: Best things to do in Bacalar, Mexico

Spend a few days exploring the different corners of Bacalar and its surroundings, from deep open-air cenotes to powerful streams and the lagoon of seven different colors. Once you get to Bacalar, unwind at one of the beach clubs (Balnearios) at the lagoon’s edge and witness the beautiful sunset from the fortress downtown.

Kayak, Paddleboard , or Boat Tour on the Lagoon

Kayaking on the Bacalar Lagoon is easily one of the best things to do on a 2-week Yucatan itinerary. You can rent kayaks (or paddleboards) around the lake, including many Balnearios (200 – 300 MXN). Head out early to explore the island crops and ancient stromatolites.

Book an amazing sunrise paddleboard tour here

For a similarly relaxed experience, you can book a boat tour on the lake. There are many companies all around the lagoon offering 2-hour tours in a lancha (small boat) or ponton (pontoon). However, you can also hop on a sailboat or small catamaran for 3-4 hours. ( Book your tour here )

How to Get to Bacalar

If you’re renting a car in Mexico, make your way further south to Bacalar. From Tulum, it’s about a 3-hour drive through beautiful jungle roads. 

You also have the option to travel on the ADO bus that departs directly from Tulum. Though time-consuming (5+ hours), the buses are comfortable, safe, and easy to use. The bus drop-off in Bacalar is about 15 minutes from the town’s center. 

Book your bus tickets to Bacalar in advance

Where to Stay in Bacalar

The best place to stay in Bacalar is in the heart of town, where you find most hotels, restaurants, and the Bacalar park. From here, it’s only a short walk to the stunning lagoon. You can also book a boutique hotel or guesthouse directly on the lagoon, with private piers and stunning water views.

Hotels in Bacalar 😴

Day 8-9: Valladolid : A Yucatan Itinerary Must

On day 8 of your Yucatan travel itinerary, head to the beautiful Valladolid, which is full of color, culture, and history. When you arrive in the afternoon, explore the city’s rainbow-colored alleys and indulge in some delicious Yucateco dishes for dinner.

Read: Best things to do in Valladolid, Mexico

The next day, wander around the charming pastel streets, and explore the majestic San Servacio Cathedral, while you hunt for a yummy breakfast spot. From the restaurant patio, you can easily take in all the surrounding colonial architecture and lively marketplaces. Afterward, use the warm afternoon to cool off in the crystal-clear waters of nearby cenotes. ( Join this cenotes tour )  

Tip: Valladolid has a lovely cenote (Cenote Zaci) right in the center, only a short walk from the main square. This is a popular spot to visit but a must-see if you’re in the city!

How to Get to Valladolid

The colorful city of Valladolid lies about 4 hours away from Bacalar , meaning it’ll take a good chunk of your day to get there. You also have the option of the ADO bus to Valladolid. Note: There’s not always a direct bus route from Bacalar to Valladolid, so browse your options on the ADO site in advance.

Where to Stay in Valladolid

From colorful hostels to beautiful boutique hotels , there’s accommodation for every type of traveler in Valladolid. Most lie close to the center, making it easier to explore all the sites. What’s more, many include a delicious Mexican breakfast, too!

Hotels in Valladolid 😴

Day 10: Chichen Itzá

Close to Valladolid lies Mexico’s most famous Mayan site: Chichen Itzá. Perched between the jungles of the Yucatan Peninsula, it’s impossible to visit the nearby city and not take a morning to visit this stunning complex. 

Made up of multiple Mayan ruins, Chichen Itzá is one of the largest Mayan cities to have ever existed and the most visited ancient site in Mexico . Rent a car or motorbike, or join a tour to Chichen Itza to visit the iconic historical remains, wandering between massive step pyramids and stone pillars. 

How to Get to Chichen Itzá

Chichen Itzá is about a 45-minute drive from Valladolid. Once you’ve arrived, most people spend about 2-3 hours walking around the large archeological site, either self-guided or on a guided walking tour.

Afterward, hop back in your vehicle and use the afternoon to explore some of the other beautiful sites in the area: the quaint town of Uayma, the Ek Balam ruins, or the Insta-famous Cenote Suytun.

Day 11-12: Isla Holbox

On the last leg of your two-week Yucatan itinerary, explore the sleepy beach town of Holbox. Here, soft sandy beaches and calm waters make the perfect location to soak up some last sun before returning home from Cancun. 

Read:  Top Things to do on Isla Holbox, Mexico .

Relax on the island, lounging in a hammock with a delicious cocktail in hand, and listen to the sound of the waves. Days are slow here, but you can easily fill it up with some more excitement by going kayaking in the mangroves or cruising down the coast to Punta Mosquito . As you travel, take in the colorful murals spread across the little beach town, swim in the Caribbean Sea, and spot flamingos on the horizon. 

Tip: Isla Holbox sees some of the most vibrant bioluminescence at night! It’s worth booking a tour to walk or glide through the glowing waters to witness this incredible phenomenon.

How to Get to Holbox

From Valladolid, it’s about a 2-hour drive to get to Chiquilá, the port town where you can hop on a ferry towards Isla Holbox . Two ferry companies operate between the island and Chiquilá, leaving every 30 minutes all day long. The journey across only takes 15 minutes, and a roundtrip to Holbox costs about 400 MXN (23.30 USD). 

Book your ferry tickets in advance online

If you’re driving, you can park your car in Chiquilá, which costs about 200 MXN (11.61 USD) per 24 hours. Tip: Though it’s usually not a problem, it’s recommended to remove all your belongings from the car (learn more about travel safety ).

Where to Stay in Holbox

The peaceful atmosphere of Isla Holbox and its beachy location offer some incredible stays, from luxe eco-lodges to chill hostels with hammocks on the sand. The best area is right in the center near the ‘Holbox’ letters, close to all the things to do and many restaurants.

Hotels in Isla Holbox 😴

Alternative Option: Visit the City of Merida

If Valladolid has got you excited about colorful alleys, colonial architecture, and vibrant local music (and you want to see more), opt to visit Merida instead of Holbox. This city, known as the cultural heart of the Yucatan Peninsula, is rich with lively markets, Mayan heritage, and colonial streets. 

Dive into the delicious cuisine on lively patios while music plays and people dance in the background. Blending ancient history, rhythm, and modern energy, Merida is a must-see for those craving more local culture.

From Valladolid, it’s a 2-hour drive to Merida. Rent a car and drive yourself or book your bus tickets online .

Day 13: Return to Cancun

On your last full day in Mexico, grab a delicious coffee on Isla Holbox in the morning and ferry back to the mainland after. Once you get to Chiquilá, pick up your car from where you parked it and drive back to Cancun.

Tip: Take this day to relax before flying out the next day, stroll through Mercado 28, and shop for some last souvenirs.

How to Visit the Yucatan in 2 Weeks

Your 2-week Yucatan itinerary starts and ends in Cancun or Tulum, both of which have airports. 

Getting Around the Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico

For the ultimate freedom, we recommend renting a car in Mexico to complete your Yucatan itinerary in 2 weeks. This also gives you the freedom to travel at your own pace and explore every destination you’d like. Besides, it’s often much faster and cheaper than taxiing or taking a tour .

Alternatively, you can book a taxi or private transfer or hop on the bus to get around. Though traveling by bus takes a bit longer than by car, the ADO bus network in the Yucatan Peninsula is very good, affordable, and comfortable.

Book your bus tickets online in advance

Our Favorite Accommodations for a 2-Week Yucatan Itinerary

Depending on your budget, there are many options for accommodation in the Yucatan, Mexico. For example, exclusive hotels , seaside resorts, lively hostels , or downtown apartments . Here are our favorites:

• Cancun:   Adhara Hacienda , Suites Malecon Cancun , Kin Ha Villas & Suites
• Tulum: Kai Tulum , Casa Ganesh Tulum , Meteora Tulum
• Bacalar: Hotel Sun Ha , Hotel CasaBakal , Hotel & Suite Oasis
• Valladolid:   Casa Tia Micha , Casa San Juan , Hostal Casa Xtakay
• Holbox: Dream Beachfront Hotel , Villas Margaritas , Casa Sofia

Is the Yucatan in Mexico Safe?

The Yucatan Peninsula is generally considered safe for travelers, with popular areas heavily patrolled by police to maintain security. However, like any other travel destination, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings and avoid walking alone at night. Luckily, due to its popularity, you’re rarely ever completely alone. You can also get a Mexico SIM card for added security and convenience.

Read more about how to travel safe

What to Know Before Your Yucatan Itinerary

Before you make your way through Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula and explore its stunning jungles, towns, and coastline, it’s important to keep the following factors in mind. That way, you can confidently travel while respecting its unique cultural and natural landscapes.

• Learn a few words in Spanish. Despite its growing popularity, some people in Mexico don’t speak English. However, local Yucatecans are known for their warmth and hospitality, especially towards visitors who show interest in their culture.
• Get a Telcel SIM card. Getting a local SIM is great for staying connected during your Yucatan itinerary of 2 weeks. The best mobile data company is Telcel; for only 200 MXN (~12 USD), you have 30 days of unlimited data for social media and 5GB for all other browsings. The card itself costs only 80 MXN (or you can buy an e-sim in advance ).
• Tipping is very common in Mexico. Sometimes, it’s already included in the bill, so make sure to check this before paying!
• Drinking alcohol on the street is illegal . Luckily, there are plenty of restaurants and bars with beautiful patios to enjoy an alcoholic beverage on. 

• Bring a reef-safe sunscreen and non-toxic bug spray . Many areas in the Yucatan Peninsula are protected zones (cenotes, Sian Ka’an). To preserve this beautiful nature, they ask you not to wear any sunscreen, but sometimes a reef-safe option is allowed.
• Watch out for topes if you rent a vehicle. These inconspicuous ‘speed bumps’ are often found in and around towns and don’t always have a sign indicating them. They’re pretty high and can really pop out of nowhere – so keep an eye out!
• Don’t forget to try the different ‘antojitos’. These small dishes (mostly tacos and other small plates) are a must-try when traveling through the Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico.

Best Time to Visit the Yucatan Peninsula

The Yucatan Peninsula sees a warm tropical climate year-round, though the dry season offers more comfortable temperatures and less rainfall. This period is the best time to visit Mexico ’s Yucatan Peninsula and runs from the end of November to May (also the peak tourism season). 

The rainy season (May – October) sees more rainfall and has a higher chance of hurricanes, though travel is still possible with some planning. Keep in mind that some destinations, like Isla Holbox, are better to visit during the dry season to avoid mud and flooded streets.

How Much Do 2 Weeks in the Yucatan Cost?

Planning a 2-week Yucatan itinerary is guaranteed to be an adventure full of stunning beaches, ancient ruins, and vibrant local culture. Over the years, this particular area of Mexico has become incredibly popular, with many travelers seeking the Peninsula’s Caribbean atmosphere. However, costs can fluctuate depending on your travel plans and the season you visit. Here’s a quick overview of the average costs:

Costs of Traveling in Yucatan

Travel on a budget in Yucatan, from $480 − $560 USD weekly per person, mid-range $1050 − $2510 USD, and high-end from $2460 − $3650 USD. However, costs depend on factors like accommodation, transportation, and activities. We did not include flights. Check flight prices here

• Hotels: $40 − $225 USD Check available hotels
• Hostels: $10 − $20 USD Check available hostels
• Transport: $20 − $40 USD Book public transport
• Car Rental: $80 − $150 USD Book a rental car
• Food: $10 − $50 USD
• Activities: $15 − $60 USD See tickets & tours
• Sim: $10 − $30 USD Get an eSIM or SIM here
• Travel Insurance: $2 − $6 USD Get Travel Insurance

Tip: Access to ATMs and the ability to use credit cards can vary, especially in more remote areas. Because of this, it’s good to carry enough cash with you on your Yucatan travel itinerary. Note that it’s best to withdraw in Mexican Pesos, though, in more tourist areas, US dollars might be accepted. Just make sure to double-check the exchange rate provided.

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• Find Hotels via Booking.com
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• Find Flights to Yucatan via Skyscanner
• Get a Travel Insurance via Heymondo
• Book Tours & Attractions via GetYourGuide
• Book a Bus/Train/Transfer via 12Go

10 Best Things to do in Tulum, Mexico

9 best things to do in valladolid, mexico, 8 unmissable things to do in holbox, mexico.

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Ultimate One Week Yucatan Road Trip Itinerary

Written By: Shelley Marmor

Updated On: April 18, 2024

Ready to start planning your Yucatan itinerary? If you’re looking for slightly off-the-beaten-path towns and sites to visit in Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, you’re in the right place. This seven-day Yucatan road trip itinerary will help you plan a unique Yucatan Peninsula trip.

The best thing about the Yucatan, located in southeastern Mexico, is that there’s no shortage of amazing places to visit, both on land and under the water. From Mayan ruins you can climb, to swimmable cenotes (natural jungle pools), there’s so much to do here that you can’t do anywhere else on Earth.

Yucatan Road Trip – All You Need to Know

This itinerary starts with all the things you need to know for a Yucatan road trip, like renting a car vs taking the bus, and how to get to the Yucatan Peninsula. After that, you’ll discover all the fun places and unique sites, which will make for an unforgettable Yucatan trip.

Where is the Yucatan Peninsula located?

The Yucatan Peninsula is located in the southeast tip of Mexico. As a peninsula, it does have water on three sides; to the south and east, there’s the bright blue Caribbean Sea, and to the north, you have the Gulf of Mexico.

There are three Mexican states that make up the Yucatan Peninsula: 1) Quintana Roo state, home to all the top destinations, like Cancun , Riviera Maya, and T ulum ) Yucatan state, where you’ll find colorful, colonial cities like Mérida and Valladolid, and 3) Campeche state, an off the beaten path destination. Read more: The Best Tulum All Inclusive Resorts

What’s the best time to go to Yucatan?

The best months to visit Yucatan are from November to March. During these months, you get nice cool weather and low humidity. The Yucatan Peninsula has a tropical climate, so expect year-round high temperatures during the day and night, though the winter and spring seasons are much more pleasant than summer and fall.

Surrounded by water on three sides, Yucatan is susceptible to hurricanes, tropical storms and very heavy rains during the June to October rainy season. The Atlantic Hurricane Season runs from June 1 to November 30, though Yucatan weather is usually nice by the end of October.

Do I need a visa to go to Mexico?

United States, Canadian, and more European passport holders do not need a travel visa for Mexico — which is great news because if you wanted to, you can even do this Yucatan itinerary on a whim! For a list of all the countries that do require a Mexico travel visa, visit this site .

When you arrive in Mexico and go through the Customs and Immigration line, an agent will give you your 180 day (6 month) FMM tourist card. You must keep this small piece of paper on you at all times, as proof you’re in the county legally. When you leave Mexico, you must return your FMM to an Immigration officer — so don’t lose it.

Traveling to the Yucatan Peninsula

For most travelers, the easiest way to get to the Yucatan Peninsula is to fly to Cancun International Airport (code: CUN). There are smaller, regional Yucatan airports scattered throughout the area (the second largest is Merida International Airport), but it’s generally most convenient to fly to Cancun.

Yucatan Car Rentals

Cancun Airport is also the best place to get a rental car in the peninsula because it has such a large selection. For the majority of travelers, it’s safe to drive in Yucatan, with the obvious caveat that you’ll be in a foreign country, unfamiliar with its driving laws and local customs. Check car rental comparisons in the Yucatan at RentalCars.com

Driving in Mexico isn’t too dissimilar from the U.S. or Canada, but you might want to ask the agent at your cart rental for some pointers. But rest assured — Yucatan road trips are generally considered quite safe , and a very popular way to cover a lot of ground in a little time.

Prices for Mexico car rentals can vary, but you can usually rent a car for about $35 USD per day, with full coverage insurance. You do legally need Mexican insurance to drive in Mexico, and neither U.S. nor Canadian policies are valid outside of the country’s border.

Yucatan Buses

If you don’t want to rent a car, you can still do a Yucatan road trip, but know buses will eat into your travel time. Mexico has a great bus system, and you can actually travel the entire country via the ADO bus , Mexico’s largest bus company.

ADO operated a fleet of luxury-class buses, complete with comfy recliner seats, air conditioning, electrical outlets at all the seats, and restrooms on board. Ticket prices will depend on your trip route, but are usually quite reasonable at about $15 USD for a two-hour trip.

Though this itinerary talks about how to drive between places via rental car, you can also do this trip with a combination of the ADO bus and taxis. (Note: There’s no Uber in Yucatan). Now that you know all the basic travel info, let’s get to this seven-day Yucatan Peninsula!

Yucatan Road Trip Itinerary: Day 1 and 2

After arriving in Cancun, get your rental car and then hit the road. While Cancun is a great place to visit, it’s more of a place to go and enjoy the beaches, all-inclusive resorts, and sites, and somewhere you’d want to dedicate a whole trip to.

From Cancun, head about two hours northwest to Chiquila, Mexico, a small pueblo where you’ll catch the 30-minute ferry to Isla Holbox Island. You’ll have to leave the car in a paid parking lot for the next two days, as there’s no cars allowed on the island. These are secure lots, and cost about $100 MXN pesos ($5 USD) per day.

Holbox Island, Mexico

Holbox (pronounced hole-bosh) is a small, laid-back island with no street lights and beaches as gorgeous as Cancun — minus the crowds. Once a sleepy fishing village, Holbox Island has gained notoriety in the last decade, but managed to retain its small-town charm. 

There’s so much to do and see in Holbox, but if you’re visiting from May 15 to September 17, take the tour to swim with the whale sharks . Whale sharks are the largest fish in the sea, averaging 30 feet in length (9 m). Each year, they hang out in the warm waters of the coast for a few months, and you can take a tour to swim with them.

Whale shark tours cost about $125 USD, and each boat has a capacity of just 10 people per tour, which is a regulation the Mexican government has in place. If you want to do this, make sure to book your tour with a local operator as soon as you arrive at Holbox.

Yum Balam is a giant nature preserve on the northern end of Holbox Island and is only accessible by boat via a tour. On the Yum Balam tours, you’ll pass by several islands in the Holbox Island chain, and Yalahau Cenote, which has amazing swimming, snorkeling, and birdwatching.

You can also rent a kayak or SUP paddleboard and check out Holbox from the water. Enjoy a tranquil voyage through the protected mangroves in Holbox and be sure to stop by Isla Pasion (Passion Island) and Isla Pajaros (Bird Island).

These two islands are home to countless species of birds, including a large flock of flamingos that live in Holbox for much of the year. Some visitors will want to go out at sunrise on a SUP paddleboard tour to the islands, though you’ll want to do this with a tour guide who knows the area.

The breeze on Holbox Island makes it one of the best places for windsurfing and kiteboarding in all of Mexico. During the winter months, when the north winds blow in, the Caribbean Sea is full of windsurfers and kiteboarders, and if you want to learn how, there are kiteboarding schools in Holbox.

When night falls, make your way to Punta Coco Beach to see the bioluminescent plankton as it sparkles on the water’s surface. You can also get in the water, and as billions of microscopic phytoplankton land on your body, you’ll start to twinkle as well. (Note: You can only see the bioluminescence during the New Moon.)

Yucatan Itinerary: Days 3 and 4

Today you’ll say adios to Holbox, and take the ferry ride back to Chiquila. Retrieve your rental car from the parking lot and make the 2.5-hour drive southwest to the Valladolid pueblo magico (magic town), located in Yucatan state.

Never heard of a Mexico pueblo magico? This prestigious designation has been awarded to about 140 pueblos, or small towns in Mexico. All the towns have unique sites and noteworthy characteristics, as well as a strong tourism infrastructure with great hotels and nice restaurants. 

Valladolid, Mexico

Valladolid is one of just four pueblos magicos in Yucatan state. It is among the most beautiful colonial towns in Mexico, and one of the safest. Enjoy some time strolling the streets of this colorful town, then have a nice meal at La Casona Valladolid.

For the next two nights, you’ll want to select a hotel in Centro (Downtown Valladolid), as this area has nice, reasonably-priced accommodations. Valladolid is very walkable, and not very big, so you can even park your car for the day and get around to see the sites on foot.

While in Valladolid, don’t miss the Convent of San Bernardino of Siena, a 16th Century Franciscan convent, and San Gervasio Cathedral (AKA Valladolid Cathedral) in the Zocalo (Main Square). For art lovers, head to Casa de los Venados to see the largest Mexican folk art collection in the country.

Chichen Itza & Cenote Ik-Kil

As one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, Chichen Itza Mayan Ruins is on the bucket list of nearly every Mexico traveler. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is located about 45 minutes by car from Downtown Valladolid, so head there in the morning after a nice breakfast. Check out 7 Wonders of the World – the New, The Natural, and the Ancient

This Chichen Itza/Valladolid Tour takes you to both historic sites and to the Saamal cenote where you can swim in the azure waters. It includes a buffet lunch and a guided walking tour through Valladolid and Chichen Itza.

The Chichen Itza site is quite large, so dress in your most comfy clothes and sneakers, and don’t forget to bring your water bottle, sunscreen, and a wide-brim hat. This part is optional, but with such an important site, you’ll want to also bring enough cash to pay for a knowledgeable guide to take you around.

Guides cost about $1,000 MXN pesos ($50 USD), and will usually take 6-8 people per group. However, with such a historic place, it’s worth the money to learn every little detail you can about Chichen Itza Mayan Ruins — and there is a lot to know!

After a long and likely sweaty day touring the ruins, head to the Cenote Ik-Kil for a refreshing swim. This is one of the most beautiful and most popular cenotes in the area and is located only about 10 minutes by car from Chichen Itza.

If you prefer a more uncrowded cenote, head back to Downtown Valladolid and visit Cenote Zaci. It’s about a 10-15 minute walk from downtown, and you can swim in Cenote Zaci for free as long as you order a meal from their onsite restaurant. If not, it’s just $30 MXN pesos ($2 USD).

What is a cenote? In case you weren’t sure, cenotes (pronounced sen-no-tays) are sinkholes that contain freshwater from underground rivers. There are about 6,000 in the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico, which is the largest concentration of cenotes found anywhere on Earth.  Read more Cenotes in Photos – Discover Mexico’s Extraordinary Underground Caves

Day 4: Ek-Balam Ruins and Cenote Xcanche

Some years back, the Mexican government outlawed climbing the Chichen Itza pyramids, though you can still climb them at other Mayan Ruins in the area. If you want to climb some Mayan Ruins on your trip, head to Ek-Balam, which is also much less touristy than Chichen Itza.

Located minutes by car from the Ek-Balam Ruins, Cenote Xcanche is the ideal place to swim and cool down climbing the pyramids and exploring the ancient ruins. You can do rappelling at this cenote, ride the zipline or use a Tarzan-style rope swing to enter the cenote (or just walk in).

Since no Yucatan itinerary is complete without visiting a lot of cenotes, there are some more in this general Valladolid area. These include Cenote San Lorenz Oxman, Cenote Suytun, Cenote Dzitnup, Cenote Samula, Cenote Xkeken, and Cenote Zaci in Downtown Valladolid. Check out another amazing cenote in the Yucatan: Rio Secreto Cenote – Mexico’s Magical Underground Caves

Yucatan Itinerary: Day 5 and 6

On your fifth day, bid farewell to Valladolid and drive four hours south to Bacalar, another pueblo magico (magic town). The small town of Bacalar is best known for Laguna Bacalar, the second-largest freshwater lake in Mexico. You may also like: 15 Fun Facts About Mexico

Bacalar, Mexico

Bacalar Lake is known as the “Lagoon of Seven Colors” because you can see up to seven distinct shades of blue in the water. Thanks to its bright blue-colored water, Bacalar is also sometimes called “The Maldives of Mexico,” another destination famous for its blue waters.

Whatever you call it, Laguna Bacalar is absolutely stunning, with some of the most beautiful water in Mexico. The town of Bacalar itself provides a nice mix of relaxation, unspoiled nature, water activities, and great restaurants.

You can stay in Downtown Bacalar, or right on the lake. If you can, opt for a place on the lake so you can just walk outside your room and jump right in. Downtown just isn’t as nice, though you can save some money by staying there.

Day 5: Bacalar Boat Tour & Cenote Azul

The best thing to do in Bacalar is to take a boat tour around the lake. It is a pretty massive lake, at about 25-miles (42 m) from end to end, so the best way to see as much of it as possible is by boat. You can also rent a kayak or SUP paddleboard to go around the lake, but you obviously won’t see as much of it.

There’s a standard Bacalar boat tour that will take you to all the coolest parts of the lake, like the Canal de Piratas (Pirate’s Channel). This is a shipwreck that you can jump off of into the lake. There’s also the Isla de los Pajaros (Bird Island) and some cenotes within the lake, including Cenote Esmerelda.

The most popular cenote in Bacalar is located just outside of the lake, Cenote Azul (Blue Cenote). You will have to drive, take a taxi or walk to it, but don’t miss the chance to swim in one of the deepest cenotes in the Yucatan; Cenote Azul is at about 275-feet-deep (84 m).

Day 6: Sunrise SUP & Los Rápidos

If you’re a morning person, Bacalar is well-known for its amazing sunrises, which you can see from the lake. Head out early for a SUP paddleboard yoga class, or simply enjoy a quiet paddleboard session, as the early risers usually have the whole lake to themselves.

Los Rapidos, which means The Rapids, is one of the best balnearios in Bacalar. Balnearios are beach clubs in Mexico, and though Bacalar is a lagoon, not a beach, they still use the word balneario. There are a few beach clubs around the lake, but Los Rapidos is one that shouldn’t be missed.

As the name Los Rapidos states, there are rapids here for you to swim and play in. You can also rent a kayak at Los Rapidos and explore even more of Laguna Bacalar. There are a restaurant, bathrooms, water hammocks, and swings here as well, so it’s a great place to spend a few hours.

Yucatan Itinerary: Day 7

On the seventh and final day, it’s (sadly) time to head back to Cancun so you can return the rental car and catch a flight home. The Bacalar to Cancun drive is about 4.5 hours in normal traffic, so plan accordingly. Some people will even want to book a hotel in Cancun for one night, especially if you’re on an early morning flight.

Want to squeeze a few more sites on the drive to Cancun? There are a few off-the-beaten-path Mayan Ruins you can stop at on the way. These include Muyil Ruins and Chacchoben Ruins, both located just off Chetumal-Cancun Highway 307, the road you take to Cancun.

Which things on this Yucatan itinerary caught your eye? We’d love to hear from you, so please let us know in the comments down below.

Read more about travel to the Yucatan and Mexico

• 23 Amazing Things to do in Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula
• Best Things to do in Playa Del Carmen, Mexico
• 21 Amazing Things to do in Cancun
• Where to Stay in Cancun: Best Hotels and Areas For Every Budget
• 25 Best Places To Visit in Mexico
• 10 Best Things to do in Mexico City for an Epic Trip
• 19 Best Things to do in La Paz, Mexico

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

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About Shelley Marmor

Shelley is a former Miami travel magazine editor who ditched the office for the world! After traveling solo to half the states in Mexico, she settled down in Merida, Mexico. Shelley helps travelers plan their ultimate Mexico trip through her TravelMexicoSolo and Travel To Merida blogs.

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2 thoughts on “Ultimate One Week Yucatan Road Trip Itinerary”

Yucatan Peninsula always attracts mankind from different parts of the Country with amazing landscapes and scenery. very helpful article

Hi Dave and Deb,

I traveled around the Yucatan Peninsula last year for about 3 weeks and really enjoyed it. Especially the Cenotes are just so breathtaking. Reading this post, makes me want to go back to Mexico, have some tacos al pastor and explore even more.

Have a good day,

Two Weeks in Mexico: The BEST Yucatan Road Trip Itinerary

Adventurous Kate contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I will earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks!

After spending a winter living in Mérida and years of trips traveling through the Yucatán Peninsula, I’ve finally put together the best itinerary for two weeks in Mexico.

Most travelers go to Mexico to lie on the beach for a week, maybe go on an excursion to a ruin or a cenote, and head straight home.

And yes. That can be fun. But you can do SO MUCH better than that!!

Mexico is one of my favorite countries. It’s absolutely brimming with culture and music and fantastic food and the nicest, kindest people. It’s diverse in experiences and it’s so much more than what most people think it is.

You might look at this itinerary and think to yourself, “You know, I’ve been to Playa del Carmen before. I’ve done Chichén Itzá, too. Is it worth it to go back to the same region?”

Yes. It’s worth it. Because the Yucatán is SO much more than just beaches and ruins. Plus, when you do it on your own — on a road trip or even by public transportation — it’s so much more satisfying than staying in a resort and traveling on tours.

Even if you’ve already been to a resort in the Cancún-Playa del Carmen-Tulum area, I encourage you to give road-tripping around the Yucatán Peninsula a chance. This is a fantastic part of Mexico.

You can download this as a printable itinerary here!

This post was most recently updated in January 2023.

Table of Contents

Two Weeks in Mexico

If you’ve got two weeks in Mexico, you could go in lots of different directions. Honestly, I’ve spent months in Mexico and my list of places I still haven’t been (Baja! Guanajuato! El Chepe!) is miles long.

But Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula is great because it’s easy for all kinds of travelers, yet diverse and fulfilling enough for experienced travelers.

You’ll fly into Cancún International Airport, which is well-connected with lots of flights. You’ll drive on good roads. You’ll visit destinations that are accustomed to tourism — but not too overtouristed.

What does this part of Mexico look like? In two weeks in the Yucatán Peninsula, you could see places as varied as these:

Unusually, this Mexico itinerary does NOT include Cancún, Playa del Carmen, or Tulum. Almost every Yucatán road trip itinerary includes at least one of these destinations as a stopover. Not this time.

Why don’t I include them? Because there are better places to go.

My goal, today and always, is to ensure that you have the best trip possible. Those three destinations are overcrowded and expensive. You don’t have to go there just because everyone else does — but you’ll still pack in some beach time.

This two week trip to Mexico packs in so much! One of the coolest islands around, a big city with tons of great restaurants, ancient Mayan ruins, underground neon-blue cenotes, soft white sand beaches, and the Lake of Seven Colors.

Cenotes, in particular, are the best part of traveling the Yucatán, in my opinion.

Read More: 50+ Best Cenotes in Mexico

Definitely don’t miss the vibrant city of Mérida , the lake of seven colors in Bacalar , and magical, bohemian Isla Holbox !

If you spend it in the Yucatán Peninsula , you’ll have easy access to beaches, ruins, cenotes, cool cities, and color-changing lakes.

Yes! The Yucatan is an incredibly safe part of Mexico (and Mérida is safer than every city in the US). It’s a safe place to travel solo as a woman.

The best time to visit the Yucatan is between December and March , when the weather is gorgeous and it isn’t too hot or too rainy.

Yucatán Road Trip Map

On the map above, you can see the driving route you would take on this trip. The destinations in blue are where you would overnight; the destinations in orange are day trip options.

Here is the two weeks in Mexico itinerary I recommend:

• Day 1: Arrive Cancún Airport, drive to Chiquilá, ferry to Holbox
• Days 2-3: Holbox
• Day 4: Drive from Holbox to Valladolíd
• Day 5: Valladolíd and surrounding area
• Day 6: Drive from Valladolíd to Río Lagartos
• Day 7: Drive from Río Lagartos to Mérida via Izamal
• Days 8-10: Mérida and day trips
• Day 11: Drive from Mérida to Bacalar
• Days 12-13: Bacalar
• Day 14: Drive from Bacalar to Cancún Airport

Day 1: Arrive Cancún, drive to Holbox

Upon arrival, pick up your rental car and drive to the town of Chiquilá (two hours). This town is where you get the ferry to Isla Holbox . Holbox is a car-free island (except for some local vehicles), so you’ll be leaving your car on the mainland for a few days. You can take a golf cart to your hotel!

Park in one of the many parking lots in Chiquilá — don’t worry, this is a safe place to leave your car! Plenty of tourists do every day. The rates are usually 100 pesos ($5) for 24 hours.

Head to the dock and hop on one of the ferries that run every half hour. The journey costs about 200 pesos ($10) for an adult.

Once you arrive on the island, walk or take a taxi to your accommodation (the taxis are all golf carts here!). Then just relax and stroll around the island, getting to know your new home for a few days. You’ll be spending three nights here.

Where to Stay in Holbox

Holbox is a small island, and I recommend staying within a few blocks of the main center. The western part of the island is home to lots of rentals, but there aren’t as many shops or restaurants.

If you want a luxury accommodation, I recommend Ser Casasandra . This is the best luxury spot on the island (and I stayed here on my first trip ). I love the beachfront area, the pool, the romantic design of the rooms, and the food is outstanding.

If you want mid-range accommodation, I recommend Hotel Para Ti . I stayed here on my second trip and absolutely loved this adults-only hotel. It has a great pool area, the decor is bohemian and fun, they are a perfect quiet location a few blocks from the town, and once again, ADULTS ONLY.

If you want budget accommodation, I recommend Hotelito Villas Holbox . This hostel is right in the center of town, and rooms are small and basic but clean. If you want to stay at a hostel, I recommend Tribu , but know it can get loud at night.

Find deals on Holbox hotels here.

Days 2 and 3: Isla Holbox

Take these two full days to unwind on Isla Holbox. You can spend your time idling on the beach or taking day trips around the island. Either way, be sure to have some great cocktails and catch a few sunsets.

Things to Do in Isla Holbox

Take a boat trip to Cabo Catoche. I loved my trip to Cabo Catoche! This inlet is further away from town, but it’s where you get the clearest, most beautiful water. An absolute must for people who want good photos of Holbox. This Cabo Catoche tour includes snorkeling and/or fishing.

See three islands on a boat trip. This popular three-island boat trip will take you to Bird Island, home to tons of interesting birds; uninhabited Pasion Island, where you can walk on a sandbar; as well as the mainland to swim in Cenote Yalahau.

If you’re visiting from June through September, you can swim with whale sharks ! One of the coolest activities you can do in Mexico! Peak season is in July and August.

Head to Punta Cocos for the sunset. Watch with a cocktail in hand! It’s a very long walk and I recommend taking a taxi, as it will be dark when you start walking back. Taxis wait around to take people back after sunset. Bring mosquito repellant!

Just hang out on the beach. Even if you don’t book a hotel with beachfront access, there are lots of beach clubs and restaurants where you can set up camp for the day.

Read More: Ultimate Guide to Isla Holbox, Mexico

Day 4: Holbox to Valladolíd

Take the ferry back to Chiquilá, pick up your car, and head out on the road. If you’re hungry, I recommend getting breakfast at La Sardina Enamorada on the mainland in Chiquilá.

Today you’ll be driving from Chiquilá to Valladolíd (just over two hours), crossing from Quintana Roo into Yucatán state.

Know that you will be crossing a time zone! As you cross into Yucatán state, time drops one hour earlier.

Valladolíd is one of the prettiest colonial towns in Mexico, and it’s especially nice in late afternoons and evenings, once the tourists day-tripping from all inclusive resorts go home. It feels gentle and welcoming. You’ll fall under its spell in no time.

Things to Do in Valladolíd

Take a dip in Cenote Zaci. Cenotes are all over the Yucatán, but Cenote Zaci is right in the middle of downtown Valladolíd! The water isn’t as clear as others but it’s a beautiful setting with waterfalls. It’s one of the deepest cenotes in the region, too, and hosts free diving competitions.

Note: Cenote Zaci closed for renovations in mid-2022. We hope it reopens soon. Their restaurant.

Enjoy the zócalo. Valladolíd’s main square is a lovely place to sit and people-watch.

Get gelato at Wabi Gelato . Good gelato is very hard to find in Mexico — this is a special place for a treat. Flavors are limited but inventive and change frequently. I loved their rosemary gelato.

Stroll down Calzada de los Frailes. This is arguably the prettiest street in Valladolíd, if not all the Yucatán, decorated with flags and lined with cafes, bakeries, shops, and hotels. I had a great pay de limón (lemon pie) at a cafe called ConKafecito .

Visit the Convent de San Bernardino de Siena. At the end of Calzada de los Frailes is a former convent that you can visit. There is a sound and light show in the evenings. This is also where you’ll find the town’s Valladolíd sign.

Where to Stay in Valladolíd

Valladolíd is a small, cheap city and you can enjoy it on a budget, but spending a bit more money can get you a much nicer hotel. I recommend staying within a few blocks of the zócalo, the main square, to maximize your time here.

If you want luxury accommodation, I recommend Le Muuch Hotel . This may be the most beautiful property in town with chic, colorful rooms and a beautiful outdoor area with hammocks and a pool.

If you want mid-range accommodation, I recommend Casa Tia Micha . This is a mid-range property that feels luxurious, from its classy stone bathtubs to its elegant carved wood furniture, but it’s well priced and central.

If you want budget accommodation, I recommend Hotel Zazil-Maj . Here the rooms are simple but clean and recently renovated, just a few blocks from Cenote Zaci.

Find deals on places to stay in Valladolíd here .

Day 5: Valladolíd, Chichén Itza, and Cenotes

Today it’s all about seeing the surroundings of Valladolíd! First thing in the morning, head to the Chichén Itzá ruins (45 minutes). They open at 8:00 AM and I recommend being there as early as possible to get a good parking spot and avoid the tourist crowds from the resorts.

The Chichén Itzá ruins are some of the largest and most impressive ruins on the Yucatán Peninsula, as well as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. El Castillo, also known as the Temple of Kukulkan, is an enormous and impressive pyramid, but I found that some of the most enjoyable sites are those further afield.

Keep in mind that Chichén Itzá allows merchants to sell direct on site, and it can get annoying having men constantly ask you to buy things. They sell devices that make a jaguar noise, so you’ll hear constant jaguar shrieks throughout your visit. Be ready for that!

Note: I do not recommend visiting Chichén Itzá on a Sunday. This is the day Mexicans get free admission. As a result, the site is even more insanely crowded and parking is a nightmare. If Day 5 is scheduled on a Sunday, I recommend going to Chichén Itzá on the afternoon of Day 4 instead.

After the ruins, backtrack a bit to enjoy a cenote. One of my favorite cenotes is in this region: Hacienda San Lorenzo Oxman . I love this cenote because it’s visually spectacular, large, not too touristed, the grounds are lovely, and the food is surprisingly good. It’s solid all around and a great place to visit.

You do drive back toward Valladolíd for this cenote (50 minutes), but trust me, it’s best to visit Chichén Itzá in the morning when it’s less hot and crowded and then cool off in the cenote after.

Another option is Cenote Ik-Kil , which has a similar look and style, but this is much more popular with Chichén Itzá tourists and it gets more crowded.

You might want to head back to Valladolíd and have a relaxed, chilled out afternoon and evening.

But if you want to continue ruins-hopping, consider visiting Ek Balam, which is about a 30-minute drive north of Valladolíd. Ek Balam only gets a fraction of the tourists that Chichén Itza receives!

There are tons more cenotes surrounding Valladolíd, including Cenote Suytun, the Instagram-famous one with the platform. Be sure to check out the “cenotes near Valladolíd” section of my cenote guide .

Day 6: Valladolíd to Río Lagartos

Today you’re getting an early start and driving north to Río Lagartos. This is a short journey — just 90 minutes by car — but this is the only day that you have here.

Because of that, I urge you to book a Río Lagartos tour before you leave on your trip. It can be hard to jump on a tour same-day.

If you’ve dreamed of visiting pink lakes, that’s the star attraction of this region. Those pink lakes are called Las Coloradas.

In Río Lagartos there are several tour operators in town who have both private and group tours of the landscapes and the neon pink salt flats. I don’t have a specific tour operator recommendation, but be sure to ask around and see just how much time you spend at the lakes. Some tour operators will whisk you by quickly without much time to enjoy them.

Keep in mind that you may not see as many flamingos as you’d like — peak season is from March to June and climate change has impacted the number of flamingos that make their home here. But the pink lakes? Spectacular.

Important note: Since Las Coloradas became an Instagram hotspot in the last decade, people are no longer allowed to get into the pink lakes or use drones at the lakes. Please respect the rules.

Where to Stay in Río Lagartos

Río Lagartos is a very small town and there isn’t a huge variety of accommodation — at least not yet! All of these properties are located within the center of town.

If you want upscale accommodation, I recommend Hotel Río Lagartos . While not super luxurious, this is one of the best properties in town. It has a nice pool and swim-up bar, as well as views over the water.

If you want mid-range accommodation, I recommend Hotel Tabasco Rio . This stylish property offers great value for money and has hot, powerful showers.

If you want budget accommodation, I recommend Hotel Mercy Inn’s . This hotel is simple but clean and comfortable with beds that are a step above the usuals in budget Mexican hotels.

Find deals on places to stay in Río Lagartos here .

Day 7: Río Lagartos to Mérida via Izamal

You’ve got two options today. You can spend the morning on another tour in Río Lagartos, or head off as soon as you get up.

There’s a lot to see between Río Lagartos and Mérida, so I recommend figuring out what you want to do the most. The Ek Balam ruins and Cenote Sac-Aua (1 hour, 15 minutes from Río Lagartos) make a great pairing.

If not? Head straight to Izamal (two hours from Río Lagartos, 1 hour 45 minutes from Ek Balam). This town, one of Mexico’s Pueblos Mágicos , is famous for its color — everything is painted bright canary yellow!

While some people say that it was painted yellow for Pope John Paul II’s visit in 1993, the town was actually yellow for quite some time beforehand. It’s a cute town and great for photos.

If you’re low on time, you can axe Izamal if you want to — it’s easy to visit from Mérida.

Finally, it’s time to drive from Izamal to Mérida (1 hour), where you’ll be staying for the next four nights.

Where to Stay in Mérida

My top recommendation in Mérida is to stay in Centro. Mérida is a huge city of many neighborhoods, and some of these neighborhoods are popular with expats, but I recommend Centro because you’ll be able to walk everywhere (or take a $1 Uber), the best restaurants are located here, and it’s filled with lovely colorful buildings and nice parks.

If you want luxury accommodation, I recommend Casa Lecanda Boutique Hotel . Every inch of this beautifully restored villa hotel is drool-worthy, from the outdoor pool area to the elegant, classy rooms. It’s located right on the best restaurant street in Mérida, literally the best location possible, and is close to everything.

If you want mid-range accommodation, I recommend Viva Mérida Hotel Boutique . When you see this hotel, you’ll think it’s luxury — but it’s actually great value for money. The hotel is colorful and very Yucatecan in style, and it’s a few blocks from Mérida’s zócalo and the center of town.

If you want budget accommodation, I recommend Hotel La Piazzetta . Located on the eastern part of the Centro on Parque de la Mejorada, this hotel is small and simple with comfortable rooms but they bring out cute creative touches wherever they can.

As far as hostels go, Nomadas Ecohostel is a classic.

Find deals on Mérida hotels here .

Days 8, 9, and 10: Mérida

I visited Mérida for the first time in early 2019, and I loved it so much, I came back to live there for two months a year later! Four years since that first trip, it’s still one of my top five favorite places in Mexico (along with Oaxaca , Guanajuato , Mexico City , and Bacalar ).

This city is low-key, welcoming, and cheap. It wasn’t on tourists’ radar for a long time, but it’s becoming more popular over the last five years. It seems like everyone who comes here loves it.

By this point, halfway through your Yucatán road trip, you’ll be looking to relax a bit, and Mérida is the perfect place to do so. Come here to explore the surroundings. I hope you’re ready to eat.

Mérida is a great place to hang out, but more than that, I’m convinced it’s the best base for day trips in all of Mexico. You can go to so many cool places within a short drive of Mérida.

Best Restaurants in Mérida

You can eat extremely well on the cheap in Mérida. Honestly, I’m including a whole restaurants section here because there are so many good ones. I miss the restaurants in Mérida so much!

For breakfast, my #1 recommendation is to get the molletes at SOCO . SOCO is a bakery and everything they make is scrumptious. Molletes are a very simple dish — just bread topped with beans, cheese, and pico de gallo — but SOCO makes them SO much better than anyone else. You can also pick up a loaf of sourdough to take back with you.

For lunch and dinner, my absolute favorite restaurant is Micaela Mar y Leña , which specializes in seafood but also has a lot of good meat dishes. This is a high-end restaurant and if you’re into design, you’ll love the interior. I want my future home to look like Micaela!

My favorite dishes are the smoked oyster dip appetizer (if you’re a New Englander missing chowder, this will scratch your itch), the fabulous grilled shrimp, and the whole octopus, which is a showstopper. The cocktails are sensational.

Another superb restaurant, and the one I visited most frequently while living in Mérida, is Hermana Republica (the location on Avenida Colón, which is central to Mérida). This is a local brewery with excellent beers. My favorite is the Belgian Blonde.

It may just be a casual brewery, but the food is SUPERB — Yucatecan and Mexican specialties that are just phenomenal, from sopa de lima to salbutes de cochinita to tostadas de atún . They also serve the best tortilla chips I’ve ever had.

Those may be my absolute favorites, but I have a few others to recommend. I love Chill-Akil for customizable chilaquiles for breakfast (you can also go to Chilakilez if you like them with crispy pork belly). La Casita del Cheviche is great for ceviche and especially the shrimp aguachile. Merci is where you go for fancy breakfast or lunch.

Mercado 60 is a trendy food hall with a huge variety of food, not just Mexican, and makes for a fun night out. El Catrín can be hit-or-miss, but the atmosphere is fun — go when it’s dark for a mezcal margarita, guacamole, and their light show.

My friend Nathan lived in Mérida for a few years and is the ultimate expert on the best restaurants in Mérida .

And if you love high-end coffee, Manifesto is phenomenal, with the best coffees in town. They roast in-shop. Márago Coffee is also nice and they’ll make coffee in lots of different ways, from Chemex to French Press to Aeropress.

Things to Do in Mérida

Honestly, I spend my time in Mérida hanging out, eating, or doing day trips outside the city. But if you’re looking for things to do within the city, here are a few great options:

Stroll down Paseo Montejo. Many people consider this one of the most beautiful streets in Mexico, lined with mansions, shops, museums, and cafes.

Experience a magical Mayan ancestral ceremony . My sister and I did this when she came to visit! This ceremony is an interesting look into Mayan culture right in Mérida. After receiving the ceremony from a Mayan shaman, you spend time soaking in several herb-scented tubs. It’s unusual, peaceful, and I recommend it.

Go on a design walk. Mérida is becoming one of the big design hubs for Mexico, and you can go on a few different tours to see how people have renovated these homes. The Mérida English Library puts on free walking tours ( see schedule here ).

Check out El Gran Museo del Mundo Maya . This phenomenal museum is one of the most comprehensive guides to Mayan culture, and has lots of interesting displays. It’s on the way out of town.

Visit the cantinas. Two of Mérida’s most fun casual bars are La Negrita and La Fundación Mezcalería , which are owned by the same people and both feature great drinks, live music, and dancing. La Negrita is open until 10 PM, making it an early spot; La Fundación Mezcalería goes until late.

Best Day Trips from Mérida

Where Mérida really shines is its day trips. It’s a huge advantage over other Mexican cities. If you’re eager to explore, take two of those Mérida days and spend them exploring the surrounding region. Here are some of my recommendations:

Celestún. This low-key beach town with powdery white sand just might be the next-next-next Holbox. You can also explore the mangroves. While flamingoes used to dominate the landscape, their population has dwindled in recent years due to climate change. Celestún is a great day trip, and a one-hour drive from Mérida. You can also visit on a tour from Mérida .

Progreso. Want a wilder Mexican beach town? Progreso is a true local experience with blasting music and beers on the beach. Is it pretty? Eh, it’s all right. But is it fun and authentically Mexican getaway? Hell yes.

Progreso is a 40-minute drive from Mérida. If you plan to drink on the beach, consider taking an Uber instead — it should take 40 minutes and cost around $15 each way.

Mayapán ruins and cenotes. The Mayapán ruins are close to Mérida (45 minutes — be sure not to drive to the town of Mayapán, which is a different place and further away) and one of the nice things is that you can actually climb them! Even the giant pyramid.

Mayapán is close to several of the best cenotes in Mexico , including Cenote Noh Mozon and Na Yah Cenote, both near the town of Pixyá. This tour from Mérida includes both Mayapán and the cenotes of Homún.

If you skip Izamal on your drive from Valladolíd to Mérida, some of my friends think that Izamal makes the perfect addition to a Mayapán and cenotes trip.

Uxmal ruins, chocolate museum, and cenotes. The UNESCO World Heritage-listed Uxmal ruins are better than Chichén Itzá, in my opinion, and get a fraction of the visitors. This tour from Mérida includes the ruins, the chocolate museum next door, and a cenote visit.

Homún or Cuzama cenotes. There are SO many cenote options in this part of the Yucatán! The towns of Homún and Cuzama are famous for their high concentration of cenotes, both hacienda cenotes and wild cenotes.

If you want a more developed and organized cenote with a restaurant on site, head somewhere like the Santa Barbara Cenotes . But if you want something more rough and wild, there are plenty of motorbike drivers who will take you to some off the beaten path sites. You can also book them on a tour from Mérida .

Campeche. This town is so pretty. Campeche has a UNESCO World Heritage-listed old town, and it’s prettier and more put together than Mérida’s. At 2 hours and 15 minutes, it’s one of the longer day trips from Mérida, but it can be done. See my full Campeche guide here.

Alternatively, you can spend three nights in Mérida instead of four and spend the fourth night in Campeche.

Day 11: Mérida to Bacalar

Bacalar , a town set on a lagoon in Quintana Roo, is one of my absolute favorite places in all of Mexico. They call Lake Bacalar the Lake of Seven Colors and it genuinely lives up to its name, shimmering in every color from cerulean to aquamarine to ink.

Bacalar is unique and special, and juuuuust starting to get popular. My advice? Go as soon as you can; it may not always be as peaceful as it is now.

Bacalar is just over a four-hour drive from Mérida. If you eat pork, I have the BEST lunch stop for you: it’s a place called Carnes Asadas “Mr. Samy’s” in the town of José Maria Morelos, about halfway between Mérida and Bacalar. Samy and his wonderful family served me and my friends on the way there and back, and the food is SO good.

Most likely you’ll get to Bacalar in the late afternoon. Take it easy after your long drive: get settled in at your hotel and enjoy some drinks and ceviche while overlooking the beautiful lake at sunset.

Where to Stay in Bacalar

If you want luxury accommodation, there are two options depending on the kind of trip you want. I recommend Mia Bacalar Luxury Resort and Spa if you want an isolated luxury spa getaway on the lake. If you want to be central, and able to enjoy the town, Hotel Carolina is one of the nicest properties in Bacalar town with nice rooms and swings right in the lake.

If you want mid-range accommodation, I recommend Casa Chukum . This beautiful, environmentally friendly hotel has colorful rooms and a chlorine-free swimming pool, and the complimentary breakfast includes eggs.

If you want budget accommodation, I recommend The Yak Lake House Hostel . This classic Bacalar spot has both dorms and private rooms, and it’s a great place to meet new people or just relax at its lakefront location.

Find deals on Bacalar hotels here .

Days 12 and 13: Bacalar

You should spend a minimum of two full days in Bacalar, because one should be spent on a boat tour of the lake, and one should be spent at Los Rapidos. Trust me on this one. They’re both wonderful activities and I wouldn’t want to go to Bacalar without enjoying both to the fullest.

Things to Do in Bacalar

A boat tour is the most popular activity to do in Bacalar, and booking this should be your top priority. You can join a boat tour (this one has an open bar) — or hire your own boat if you want a private trip — and explore the lagoon, from the shallow waters of Pirates’ Canal to the dark cenotes within the lake itself. Many boats turn into a party!

Spend a day at Los Rapidos. Los Rapidos is a riverside beach club about a 20-minute drive outside Bacalar. You can sit by the river, lie in Instagrammable hammocks right in the water, and enjoy food and cocktails — but the best part is jumping in the river and letting it whisk you downstream! Insanely fun.

I highly recommend water shoes for Los Rapidos, as the pavement is sharp and painful to walk on, but the river carries you downstream so you can’t get out in where you left your shoes. Water shoes solve that problem. They’re also good for wearing in Lake Bacalar.

Check out the Cenote Azul. This is a good place to stop on the way to Los Rapidos, as it’s on the same road out of town. This giant open cenote is a nice place to stop for a morning swim.

Go stand-up paddle boarding. If you’ve never tried SUP before, a lake is the perfect place to learn. It’s a great core workout that doesn’t feel like a workout, and a gorgeous way to explore the lake. You can book a sunrise paddleboarding tour here.

Hang out on the docks and at the beach clubs. Throughout Bacalar town there are docks where you can just go and sit and enjoy the atmosphere. Many belong to hotels and guesthouses, but several are open to the public, too.

Read More: Guide to Bacalar, Mexico’s Lake of Seven Colors

Day 14: Bacalar to Cancún Airport

Sad times — it’s time to head home. The drive from Bacalar to Cancún Airport takes about four hours.

If you have an early flight departing from Cancún, it might make more sense to drive up from Bacalar the night before and spend the night in a hotel close to the airport like the Courtyard by Marriott Cancún Airport , which is good value for money and just a four-minute drive from departures.

Is it safe to drive in Mexico?

A lot of people get intimidated about driving in Mexico — but it’s not as scary as you think, especially here in the Yucatán Peninsula. This is a safe and easy region of the country. I wouldn’t hesitate to drive alone in this part of Mexico!

If you’re driving in Mexico for the first time ever, the Yucatán Peninsula is the perfect place to start. Most major roads are in good condition. Yucatán state has exceptionally low crime; Quintana Roo state’s crime is mostly concentrated in the resort towns you’ll be avoiding. The landscape is flat for the most part and you don’t have to deal with treacherous mountain passes.

In other parts of Mexico, like remote areas of Chiapas, locals frequently shut down roads due to protests or ask passing drivers for money; this is very uncommon in the states of Yucatán, Campeche, and Quintana Roo.

If you’re looking to get good value for money, I recommend comparing car rental rates at RentalCars.com . Keep in mind that the cheapest rates are often for manual transmissions — if you need an automatic car, specify that when you book so there are no surprises.

Obviously, you’ll need a license to drive in Mexico. Mexico recognizes English language licenses, regardless of country. If you don’t have an English or Spanish language license, you may want to bring an international driving permit (which is essentially a translation of your license that you can get in your home country).

Mexicans drive on the right side of the road.

If you’re nervous, you may want to do all your driving during the day. I planned out this Mexico road trip itinerary so that you could do all of your driving during the day if possible. The longest driving days are about four hours. A lot of people feel more comfortable driving during the day, when more people are out and the light is better.

Speed bumps are a continuous annoyance while driving in Mexico. They are everywhere — in the middle of towns, on smaller roads, on busy roads, and sometimes even on the highway. While sometimes they’re painted yellow and have signs, sometimes they appear out of nowhere and are hard to spot. Keep an eye on the road continuously.

There are lots of toll roads ( cuota roads) in Mexico, and they add up. Still, I recommend taking toll roads when you can, as they tend to be in far better condition with fewer potholes and speed bumps. Keep money on you — both bills and change — to pay these tolls. You may have to pay as much as 200 pesos ($10). Trust me, it’s better than the regular roads.

There are checkpoints throughout the Yucatán Peninsula, especially when crossing state lines. Sometimes they will wave you straight through; sometimes they will ask you where you’re going. One time, when driving into the town of Hecelchakán in Campeche, a local cop asked me why we were heading there. “Cochinita,” we replied — we were there for the famous slow-roasted pork. He grinned and waved us in.

Gas stations are easy to find throughout the Yucatán Peninsula. I’m a fairly cautious person and tend to refill when I get down to half a tank; you won’t need to worry about this, as there are plenty of stations. Gas stations in Mexico are full-service — the attendant pumps your gas for you. Be sure to give him a small tip (10-20 pesos is fine).

You should keep in mind that many rural areas of Mexico have no phone signal, and that includes along the highways. Much of the time you need to get to a town before you get phone signal.

Finally — Mexico is not nearly as dangerous as the American media would have you believe. Just like the US, there are very safe areas and not-so-safe areas. Much of the drug violence is concentrated in pockets of the north. The Yucatán Peninsula is a very safe area of Mexico — in fact, Yucatán State and Mérida are frequently cited as the safest state and city in Mexico.

Read More: Solo Female Travel in Mexico: Is it Safe?

Alternative Yucatan Road Trip Itineraries

Want a slightly different two week Mexico itinerary? No problem! You can customize this Yucatán itinerary to your needs.

Would you rather take public transport than drive? You can do that!

Would you rather change accommodation less often and stay longer in fewer places? Indeed you can.

Do you only have 10 days or a week? We can absolutely work with that.

Do you have more than two weeks to travel? Lucky you. I have suggestions.

Traveling in the Yucatán by Public Transportation

Don’t want to drive? That’s okay! With a few adjustments, you can do this trip by bus. You won’t have the freedom to come and go as you please, and you’ll have to plan ahead for scheduling your time, but for some people, not having to drive makes it worth it.

The buses in this part of Mexico are very safe and comfortable. I’ve taken them many times as a solo female traveler and I wouldn’t hesitate to take them again.

Here is the two-week Mexico itinerary I recommend, using public transportation:

• Day 1: Get a shuttle from Cancún Airport to Chiquilá , then get the ferry to Holbox
• Day 4: Ferry to Chiquilá, bus from Chiquilá to Río Lagartos via Tizimín
• Day 5: Book a day trip to Las Coloradas from Río Lagartos, then bus to Valladolíd later
• Day 6: Colectivo from Valladolíd to Chichén Itzá and back
• Day 7: Bus from Valladolíd to Mérida
• Days 8-10: Mérida and day trips (include Izamal here)
• Day 11: Bus from Mérida to Bacalar
• Day 14: Bus from Bacalar to Cancún Airport

A few notes: You may want to switch up the order of Río Lagartos and Valladolíd. If you’re traveling from Río Lagartos to Mérida, you’ll need to change buses in Tizimín.

You technically can get a bus from Valladolíd to Chichén Itzá to Mérida, but you probably don’t want to drag your luggage around the ruins, so I recommend doing Chichén Itza as a day trip from Valladolíd and catching a bus to Mérida the next day.

While in Mérida, you’ll be better off doing organized day trips that include the transportation.

Here are a few easy and fun day trips from Mérida where you won’t have to drive:

Progreso beach: Head to Progreso by public bus from Mérida (20 pesos, or $1, each way), or take an Uber for about $15 USD each way. The drive is just 40 minutes.

Mayapán ruins and cenotes: The Mayapán ruins are close to several top cenotes. This tour from Mérida includes both Mayapán and some great cenotes nearby.

Homún cenotes: Take a colectivo from Mérida to Homún (1 hour) and upon arrival, hire a motorbike driver to either take you to Santa Barbara Cenotes (resort-like hacienda experience) or hire a driver for the day to take you to several wild cenotes in the area. Alternatively, take a tour to the Santa Barbara Cenotes direct from Mérida.

Another similar option is taking a colectivo to Cuzama, another town close to Homún that has its own collection of cenotes.

Celestún beach and mangroves: I recommend booking a tour for this as the public bus takes 2.5 hours but it’s just an hour’s drive from Mérida. This Celestún tour from Mérida includes time in the biosphere reserve and free time on the white sand beach.

Uxmal ruins, chocolate, and cenotes: This Uxmal tour from Mérida includes a trip to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Uxmal ruins, a trip to the chocolate museum, and a cenote visit.

A Slower Two Week Mexico Itinerary

Do you prefer not changing hotels often, with longer stays in fewer places? I totally get it. It’s the best way to have a relaxing trip. If that’s the case with you, I recommend basing in three places during your two week trip to Mexico: Holbox, Mérida, and Bacalar.

This can be done either as a Yucatan road trip or with public buses (though keep in mind the bringing your luggage to Chichén Itza issue — you may want to go there and back to get your bags before heading to Mérida).

• Day 1: Drive from Cancún Airport to Chiquilá, ferry to Holbox
• Days 2-4: Holbox
• Day 5: Ferry to Chiquilá, drive to Mérida via Valladolíd and Chichén Itzá
• Days 6-9: Mérida
• Day 10: Drive from Mérida to Bacalar
• Days 11-13: Bacalar

If You Have More than Two Weeks

If you have longer than two weeks for your Yucatan road trip itinerary, you can add extra days to any of the previously mentioned destinations. Holbox, Mérida, and Bacalar in particular would be great places to add extra days. Here are some other things you can do.

Spend a night in Campeche . Or maybe two. Campeche is lovely — its old town is smaller, cleaner, prettier, and better put together than Mérida’s. There’s also a nice malecón , or path along the seafront. I wrote about my time in Campeche here.

Spend a night or two in Mahahual. This beachside town on the Costa Maya is on the verge of getting super-popular — the way Tulum was 15 years ago. The time to visit is now, while it’s still a bit low-key, before the major developers arrive.

If you REALLY want to, spend a night or two in Cancún, Playa Del Carmen, or Tulum. I’m not going to stop you. Just go in with measured expectations. They’re popular resort towns. Like I said, there are far better places to visit in the Yucatán Peninsula, and you’ve been to lots of them. (I’ve heard Isla Mujeres is quite nice, though.)

See the Coba ruins. The Coba ruins are about 45 minutes west of Tulum and like the Mayapán ruins, you can climb them! The Gran Cenote makes a good stop on the way back (there are turtles swimming in it!) but know it’s much pricier than the cenotes near Mérida and Valladolíd.

If you have the budget for a night or two in a resort, you’ll probably want to do it around the Riviera Maya. This part of Mexico is not lacking in resorts! Relaxing by the pool with a cocktail in hand can be a nice way to end your two-week Mexico road trip.

10 Days in Mexico Itinerary

If you only have 10 days in Mexico, I would make a few cuts on the places that excite you the least. If if were up to me, I would cut Río Lagartos out of your itinerary, limit Valladolíd to a short drive-by visit, and remove one of the days in Mérida.

Day 4 is going to be a LONG day. I recommend starting early to make the most of it.

• Day 4: Drive from Holbox to Mérida via Valladolíd, Chichén Itzá, possibly a cenote
• Day 5-6: Mérida and day trips
• Day 7: Drive from Mérida to Bacalar
• Days 8-9: Bacalar
• Day 10: Drive from Bacalar to Cancún Airport

One Week in Mexico Itinerary

If you only have one week in Mexico, I would split your time between two destinations: either Holbox and Mérida or Bacalar and Mérida. I know it’s tempting to add in lots of destinations, but trust me on this one.

In 2019 I spent a week in Mexico split between Holbox and Mérida and it was perfect. (And it definitely whet my appetite for more — a year later I came back to live in Mérida for the winter!)

You may want to consider a one-way car rental from Cancún to Mérida. One-way rentals can often be more expensive, but it saves you hours of driving in this case. Once again, RentalCars.com will give you an idea of the pricing.

But a car isn’t necessary for this weeklong trip. You can easily do this itinerary by public transportation on the ADO buses, as I did in 2019. If you go to Holbox, take one of the many shuttles from Cancún Airport to Chiquilá — it’s faster and easier than the bus.

• Day 1: Arrive Cancún, drive to Chiquilá and get the ferry to Holbox (or drive to Bacalar)
• Days 2-3: Holbox (or Bacalar)
• Day 4: Drive from Chiquilá (or Bacalar) to Mérida
• Days 5 and 6: Mérida
• Day 7: Depart Mérida

There is a lot more to see on the drive from Chiquilá to Mérida — Valladolíd, Chichén Itzá, some cool cenotes, Izamal — than the drive from Bacalar to Mérida.

So which place is better, Holbox or Bacalar ? Wow, that’s a tough one! Having spent time in both places recently, I would give the edge to Bacalar. It’s more unique and I think it has a better vibe.

Mexico Travel Tips

When you arrive in Mexico, you’ll fill out a form on the plane and present it at immigration. You’ll be given part of the form back. This needs to be presented when you leave Mexico — do not lose it! If you do lose it, there are places in the airport where you can pay for a new one.

If you want to get a SIM card for your phone when in Mexico, I recommend Telcel. Remember to bring your passport to the store for ID. If you run out of data, you can top it up at an OXXO drug store, which are all over Mexico.

Quintana Roo and Yucatán states are in different time zones. According to this itinerary, you’ll cross these time zones when you go from Holbox to Valladolíd on Day Four and when you go from Mérida to Bacalar on Day Ten. Keep that in mind.

Keep small change for using the bathroom. Many public restrooms charge you to use them. It’s usually 5 pesos (25 cents).

Keep in mind that an “M” on the bathroom means it’s for women! I have made that mistake before! M is for mujeres, or women. Sometimes bathrooms are labeled Mujeres and Hombres , or Damas and Caballeros .

The water is not safe to drink in Mexico. Your accommodation will often provide you with drinking water, and I recommend a LifeStraw  or SteriPen water purifier and  reusable bottle to cut down on your plastic waste. That said, there’s nothing wrong with brushing your teeth with Mexican water.

If you get sick in Mexico, consider visiting a Farmacia Ahorro. I learned this when living in Mérida — several pharmacy chains, including Farmacia Ahorro, have a doctor working in the pharmacy who can examine you! Ask the pharmacist and they’ll give you a ticket for the doctor. Tip the doctor when you’re done (100 pesos, or $5, is fine).

Best Time to Visit Mexico for a Yucatán Road Trip

The absolute best time to visit the Yucatán Peninsula in Mexico is during the winter months: from December to March. This is primarily for weather reasons: nice sunny days, it rarely rains and temperatures are at their most pleasant.

This is especially important because Mérida is brutally hot for most of the year. The winter months are when Mérida is at its most pleasant, but even in winter, you’ll occasionally have some days at 95 F (35 C).

Outside of these months, it really heats up in Mérida. Mérida’s hottest month is May, and late April and early June are also brutally hot. It stays hot through November.

The other destinations on this itinerary, like Holbox and Bacalar, aren’t QUITE as hot as Mérida, thanks to their location by the sea, but the heat can still be unpleasant. Plus, so much of this itinerary is dependent on outdoor weather conditions and I know you’d rather not risk being rained out.

Consequently, this winter months are when Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula gets the most tourists, and when places tend to be most expensive. But I encourage you to visit at this time because weather really can make or break your visit.

Plus, visiting Mexico when it’s cold at home is the point! You need a warm weather escape, and Mexico is one of the best possible places you could visit. Your friends are going to be jealous of your photos…

What to Pack for a Mexico Road Trip

The good thing about Mexico is that you can often buy what you need there. Still, you should pack wisely, just in case.

In terms of clothing, you can wear whatever you want in Mexico — just nothing grotesquely revealing, and keep swimwear to the beach. Light fabrics help you breathe. I tend to wear dresses, skirts, and tank tops with sandals, plus some athletic wear for active days. You might want to bring a sweater and jeans for cool nights or bus rides.

(Like my bag in the photo above? I got it at Poshería , my favorite shop in Mérida, right on Paseo Montejo. Such a great, useful souvenir!)

Here are some items that are smart to pack for a trip to Mexico:

Biodegradable sunscreen . Leave your regular sunscreen at home — it can be harmful to delicate areas like cenotes, Lake Bacalar, and the waters surrounding Holbox. Stick to the biodegradable or reef safe brands.

Earplugs . Mexico is loud . Even in small towns. Even in luxury hotels. Even on a Monday night. Earplugs are essential to get a good night’s sleep in Mexico.

LifeStraw  or SteriPen water purifier and  reusable bottle . This lets you drink water safely in Mexico without creating more waste from bottled water.

Pacsafe Travelsafe . Lock up your valuables to something sturdy in your accommodation. I consider my portable safe  the most important thing I pack .

Mosquito repellant . Mosquitos can be incessant in this part of Mexico, especially at sunset.

Travel towel . Cenotes don’t provide towels — you’ll need to bring your own.

Speakeasy Travel Supply scarf . These scarves have a hidden pocket for your passport or cash, and some come in light fabrics perfect for Mexico. I love these scarves ( I even designed my own! ).

Sports sandals . Sports sandals are ideal for climbing ruins and exploring the outdoors while leaving your feet room to breathe on hot days.

Flip-flops . I wear mine everywhere in Mexico. I can’t wear most flip-flops due to arch issues but I ADORE my  Abeo flip-flops with arch support .

Water shoes . I don’t usually recommend these, but they are extremely useful in Bacalar, especially at Los Rapidos, where you alternate being in the water and walking on painful ground.

GoPro . You are going to want to take photos in the water in this part of Mexico — especially cenotes and at Bacalar.

Travel Insurance for Mexico

One last note — it’s absolutely vital to have travel insurance before traveling to Mexico.  If you get sick or injured on your trip, if you get robbed, or even if you have to be flown home for more care, travel insurance will protect you from financial ruin.  I use and recommend World Nomads for trips to Mexico.

Travel insurance will help you in your hour of need if you come down with appendicitis in Mérida or trip and break an ankle while climbing the pyramid at Mayapán, and if your flights get canceled due to hurricanes, you can get accommodation and new flights paid for.

As always, be sure to read your policy carefully and make sure it’s a fit for you.  See what World Nomads covers here.

You are going to LOVE your Mexico road trip.

Mexico is one of my absolute favorite places in the world. I love this country fiercely, and I will always come back to it. The more time I spend in Mexico, the more places I keep adding to visit someday!

So many people go to Mexico and see nothing more than beach resorts, when the country has SO much more to offer, especially in the Yucatán Peninsula. I know your trip will be so much better when you focus on areas outside the resorts.

And please don’t forget that you can put your own spin on whatever you want to do. Maybe you’re not a fan of ruins. That’s fine! You don’t have to go to any! And if you don’t like swimming in deep water, know that you don’t have to swim in any if you don’t want to. (Plus, they all provide lifejackets.)

This is your trip. You go do Mexico the way you want to. I’m just here to help you along the way.

Have the best time in Mexico — then come back and tell me all about it!

Planning a Trip to Mexico:

• Solo Female Travel in Mexico: Is it Safe?
• What NOT to Do in Mexico

Places to Visit in the Yucatán and Mexico’s Caribbean Coast:

• Things to Do in Bacalar, Mexico, The Lake of Seven Colors
• Guide to Isla Holbox, Mexico’s Most Magical Island
• 50+ Best Cenotes in Mexico

Places to Visit in Inland Mexico:

• The Absolute Best Things to Do in Oaxaca, Mexico
• Best Mexico City Neighborhoods to Stay In
• 35+ Best Things to Do in Guanajuato, Mexico
• How to Visit Sumidero Canyon from San Cristobal de las Casas

Places to Visit on Mexico’s Pacific Coast:

• 24 Fabulous Things to Do in Sayulita, Mexico
• Guide to Bucerías, Mexico, an alternative to Puerto Vallarta

Have you been on a Yucatan road trip? Where do you recommend going? Share away!

Ultimate 2 to 4-week itineraries for the Yucatan Peninsula

Posted on February 27, 2020 | Julie J. |

Last Updated on July 17, 2023

The Yucatan Peninsula is one of Mexico’s most visited places and not for nothing. There are tons of unique things to do there, from relaxing at unspoiled beaches to exploring underground cenotes to climbing Maya pyramids and visiting colonial towns. Read on to discover the recommended itineraries and the best things to do in the Yucatan Peninsula.

You can visit all the places listed below via public transportation or rent a car and do a road trip.

Related – What to pack for a trip to the Riviera Maya

Travel Tip : Before any international trip, make sure to check visa requirements and get travel insurance .

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on any links and make a purchase, I’ll get a small commission, at no cost to you.

Getting to Cancun

Cancun has the biggest international airport in the region, which makes it the easiest starting and ending point. Cancun is famous for its beautiful beaches and party vibes. I personally don’t like Cancun, and I wouldn’t advise going there unless what you want is to party or go on an all-inclusive vacation.

Arriving at Cancun Airport you can head directly to Playa del Carmen or Tulum with an ADO bus. If you want to visit Cancun, stay in the Zona Hostelera, where the beaches and the parties are. To get there from the airport either a cab (there’s no Uber) or an ADO bus to the bus station in Cancun. Don’t take the taxis right in front of the bus station, walk to the main road to your right, where you can either catch a cheaper taxi (agree on the price first) or take the bus for only 10 pesos (it stops practically in front of every hotel).

What to do in Cancun

To visit the beaches just use public transportation. Towards the north, the sea is rougher and deeper faster ( Playa Delfines is one of my favorites). Towards the south, the water is quieter and shallower, better for swimming. At night, head to the party center, where all the bars, restaurants, and nightclubs are located. The most famous nightclub is Coco Bongo , half a club half a cabaret with live performances every night.

While in Cancun, make sure to visit a few Mayan archaeological sites!

Is Cancun safe?

More or less, it’s clearly not the safest destination in the Yucatan Peninsula, if you stay at your resort, you should be fine. Just keep your eyes open at night, especially in the party area, and do not buy drugs.

Is Cancun family-friendly?

While many people go there to party, many go only to enjoy the beaches. There are many family-friendly resorts you can stay at, even during Spring Break you can find kid-friendly activities.

Is Cancun budget-friendly?

No, but it can be if you don’t stay in the Zona Hostelera. You can book an Airbnb (or Couchsurf) in Cancun Old Town. Try to find one that’s close to the bus line heading to the beaches. In the old town, you’ll also find cheap restaurants and supermarkets.

How long to stay?

Some people spend their entire vacation in Cancun and only take day trips to nearby attractions. For this itinerary, spend 2 nights and one full day (more if your flight is early), and then next head to Playa del Carmen.

Playa del Carmen

From Cancun, you can either take a Colectivo (van) or an ADO bus. The vans are faster and cheaper, but the buses are more comfortable. They both leave from the bus terminal.

Where to stay in Playa del Carmen

Stay near the beach and 5th Avenue. Towards the north, big all-inclusive resorts and southwards, villas, and bungalows on the beach. There are also a couple of budget accommodations in this area, but without the beachfront.

What to do in Playa del Carmen

Like in Cancun, beaches and parties are the main things to do in Playa del Carmen . In Playa del Carmen, you can spend some time at the beach and stroll around 5th avenue in the evening. 5th avenue is where you’ll find all the shops, restaurants, and bars. It gets really lively at night. If you want to buy souvenirs don’t hesitate to haggle. Speaking some Spanish might help.

You should also check out Punta Esmeralda . You won’t find many tourists there, only locals know about this place. It’s a beach with a small open-air cenote. You can also plan to spend a day in Xcaret, a famous attraction park, where you can do all sorts of activities.

There are many beaches and open-air cenotes you can visit along the Playa del Carmen – Tulum road. For each of them, you can take a collectivo to reach your destination. If you’re feeling adventurous, you’ll find some of the best cenotes for scuba diving near Playa Del Carmen , such as Dos Ojos, El Pit, or Tajma Ha.

Among the most beautiful beaches are Akumal, Xcacel, Xpu-Ha, Saasil Kantenah, and Chemuyil . Bring a mask and snorkel, as you can easily snorkel off most beaches. The prettiest cenotes are Cenote Escondido, Taak Bi Ha, Media Luna, and Dos Ojos . Some of them are closer to Tulum than Playa del Carmen, so you can wait to be in Tulum to visit them.

Playa Del Carmen is also one of the best spots in the Riviera Maya to go diving from.

Related – Beach break packing list

Is Playa del Carmen safe?

Again, more or less, during the day, it’s fine, just be careful late at night in the bars and nightclubs. If you go to a beach with not many people around, keep an eye on your stuff.

Is Playa del Carmen family-friendly?

Playa del Carmen is definitely more family-friendly than Cancun. You can easily stroll around the 5th Avenue with children at night, and you can easily find a stretch of sand (away from the big concrete resort area) without anyone being drunk. There are plenty of fun things to do with kids in Playa Del Carmen.

Is Playa del Carmen budget-friendly?

Like in Cancun, if you go farther away from the “tourist” area, you’ll find cheaper accommodations and food options.

How long to stay in Playa del Carmen

You can spend a day in the city, then the next exploring maybe a beach and two cenotes. If you have more time, you can visit more of the beaches and cenotes or spend a day in Xcaret.

Related – 9 Incredible Beachfront Airbnbs in Playa del Carmen

Same as for Cancun-Playa del Carmen, you can take a collectivo or a bus to reach Tulum.

What to do in Tulum

Tulum has quickly become a hotspot for travelers, it grew tremendously in the last few years, to accommodate more and more tourists. You will find many things to do in Tulum.

There you can visit the Maya ruins , the only ones in Mexico built on the seaside. If it’s the first Maya site you visit, I advise taking a guide so you can learn everything about the Maya culture and the ruins. You can also visit some of the cenotes nearby, such as Labnaha, Gran Cenote, and Zacil-Ha.

You cannot miss the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve either. The reserve is full of birds (and crocodiles so be careful), it’s mostly mangrove. You can either book a tour from Tulum, and you’ll go around the reserve on a boat, or you can drive to Punta Allen, where you’ll see beautiful beaches on one side and the mangrove on the other.

If you need to relax and want to try a unique experience, make sure to check out a Holistic Healing Spa or maybe join a yoga retreat at Tribal Tulum .

Is Tulum safe?

Tulum partly became a tourist destination because it’s deemed safer than Cancun or Playa del Carmen. Common sense applies, but apart from having to watch your belongings, you should be fine.

Is Tulum family-friendly?

Yes! Kids will love the cenotes and the ruins. It’s also a more low-key/hippie atmosphere. There’s still a lot of parting going on but not to the same extent as other destinations.

Is Tulum budget-friendly?

Contrary to Playa del Carmen and Cancun, Tulum hasn’t been invaded by huge concrete resorts and has kept a more local vibe. So yes, it’s possible to visit Tulum on a budget .

It’s a backpacker’s heaven, with many budget travelers skipping Playa del Carmen and Cancun and heading straight to Cancun. It’s actually what I recommend if you’re looking for a more authentic vacation.

How long to stay in Tulum?

You can spend a day exploring the ruins and maybe a cenote or two, then the next day head to the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve. Tulum is a nice destination to spend a few more days if you have time for it.

From Tulum, there’s an ADO bus once a day heading to Mahahual in the evening.

What to do in Mahahual

In Mahahual you’ll feel like you have just arrived at the end of the world. This peaceful and slow-paced village is the best place to spend a couple of days, relaxing at the beach. Oriented towards tourism, you’ll find everything you need there without the crowds of tourists you’ll see in other beach-destinations in Mexico. Apart from the beach and going snorkeling there’s not much more to do in Mahahual. Check before going if there’s seaweed at the moment or not. It’s not worth the trip if the water and the beach are full of stinky seaweed.

Is Mahahual safe?

Yes, it’s a small village, quiet and miles away from the cartels and other problems Mexico is facing.

Is Mahahual family-friendly? budget-friendly?

Mahahual is more of a backpacker destination where you’ll find cheap hostels, cheap food, and cheap beer. There are a couple of hotels more adapted to families and the vibe is relaxed, so even if not per-say, a family destination, you still can go with children, but apart from the beach, there’s not more to do for children so they might get bored easily.

How long to stay in Mahahual

If you’re on a tight schedule, you can just spend a night there. If you have more time and like to relax at the beach, you can stay a few days longer.

From Tulum you can catch a bus to Bacalar, ADO buses are the most comfortable but also the most expensive. There are other companies doing the trip, but check how long they take to reach Bacalar as sometimes they stop in every village. There are not that many buses making the trip so check the schedule and maybe book it the day before.

From Mahahual, there are two daily ADO buses heading to Bacalar.

What to do in Bacalar

Bacalar is my favorite place in Mexico. The lagoon is stunning, there are not many places like this in the world. try to find a hotel with access to the lagoon so you can enjoy it fully.

There are plenty of things to do in Bacalar , and most activities revolve around the lagoon. Most entrances are private and you’ll need to pay a small fee. Some are better than others. For a public and free one, type “ Acceso Publico a La Laguna ” in Google Maps, it’s near the main plaza. If you want a place with a bit of “beach”, go to “ Parque Ecologico Laguna Bacalar “, you’ll have to pay an entrance fee but the place is nice and quiet.

You can also go on a boat tour to visit more of the lagoon. There are a couple of nice spots as well as a cenote. You should also rent a bike and head to Cenote Azul , stopping along the way.

Is Bacalar safe?

During the day yes, after 9 PM avoid going out, especially alone.

Is Bacalar family-friendly?

All the activities there are kid-friendly, but it’s more of a backpacker town. You can find a couple of higher-end hotels and a few guesthouses that are great for families though.

Is Bacalar budget-friendly?

Yes, you can easily rent a tent for less than 10 US a night. The tours on the lagoon are also usually cheap, and you can find plenty of cheap food options.

How long to stay in Bacalar?

I would recommend staying at least 3 days to fully enjoy the place, but you also just spend a day, doing the boat tour or just hanging out at the lagoon.

Bacalar-Merida is the longest distance in this itinerary, it takes around 5 hours. Take an ADO bus, the others take way more time. Book your ticket at least a day before.

What to do in Merida

A stunning colonial city full of beautiful sights, you’ll find plenty of things to do in Merida . There, you can visit the historic center , don’t miss the cathedral and the city’s main plaza . There, you can visit the Fernando García Ponce Museum showcasing contemporary art in a colonial building, and the Casa Montejo Museum , a cultural museum set in a historical house.

From there, head to the Parque Santa Lucia then the Parque de Santa Ana . Both are great places at night, with some of the best restaurants in Merida and traditional Maya dance performances. Then stroll around the Paseo de Montejo , said to resemble the Champs Elysées in Paris. There are two House-Museums you can visit on the avenue.

If you’re interested in the Maya culture, you can visit the Gran Museo del Mundo Maya in the northern part of the city (you can take an Uber to it).

There are also a lot of things to do around Merida. A couple of Mayan sites you can visit include Mayapan , Uxmal (UNESCO) and the Ruta Puuc . You can reach Mayapan and Uxmal via public transportation, and every Sunday, ADO has a bus doing a tour of Uxmal and the four sites along the Ruta Puuc.

You shouldn’t miss Izamal , also known as the yellow city. There, you can stroll around the golden streets, visit the convent and climb Yucatan’s widest Maya pyramid.

Related article – Izamal Complete Travel Guide

You can also spend a day in Homun , a municipality home to no more than 30 visitable cenotes. You can take a collectivo to Homun then hire a type of tuktuk to take you to the cenotes.

Progresso and Sisal are two nearby beaches you can visit as a day trip from Merida. It’s the Gulf of Mexico so it’s not as nice as the Caribbeans. If you have to choose one, I would advise going to Sisal. It’s more of a village vibe as Progresso is more touristy, and the beach in Sisal is wilder.

If you have more time, you can make a detour to Celestun . You’ll have to spend at least a night there. There you should take a boat tour to the Celestun Biosphere Reserve to see birds and the mangrove.

Is Merida safe?

Yes, Merida is the safest city in Mexico, you can walk around drunk at 2 am and nothing will happen to you.

Is Merida family-friendly?

Yes, Merida is probably the most family-friendly destination in this itinerary. Apart from being super safe, there are tons of family-friendly hotels. Kids will love visiting the old colonial houses and the Maya sites.

Is Merida budget-friendly?

Merida can definitely be a good place for budget-traveler. There are many hostels within the Historic Center as well as a couple of cheap guesthouses. Eating in the “nice” restaurants can be a bit pricey, but you’ll find a lot of street food and cheap eateries, even in the center.

How long to stay in Merida

You can spend a day visiting the city, then another one in Uxmal (and the Ruta Puuk if you have a car or are there on a Sunday). On the third day, don’t miss Izamal, Yucatan’s cutest town. If you’re not tired yet of cenotes, you can spend a fourth day visiting Homun. If you have more than 2 weeks to visit the Yucatan Peninsula, do take two days to visit Celestun.

Getting to Valladolid from Merida is simple and fast. You can take an ADO bus from Merida bus station (CAME) in the city center that will leave you in Valladoli’s city center. Be careful when booking your ticket to and from Merida as there are at least 10 ADO bus stations within the city. The one you want is either CAME or TAME, both are right next to each other and close to the historic center.

If you’re traveling light, on your way to Valladolid, you can stop to visit Chichen Itza, so you don’t have to come back later.

What to do in Valladolid

The historic center is pretty small, and you can visit everything on foot. From the main plaza head to the San Bernardino de Siena Convent , and you will have seen everything. At night, during weekends and holidays, they organize a light show at the convent, it’s in Spanish but it’s worth seeing even if you don’t understand.

Valladolid is also famous for its many cenotes. You can rent a bike (or a cab) to visit them. Among the nicest ones are Cenote Zaci (right in the city center), Cenote Suytun , and Oxman Cenote .

Related article – Valladolid most beautiful cenotes.

Chichen Itza is the main attraction in the area. It was the first Maya site I visited, so I loved it, but I’ve talked to many people you were disappointed. Because it’s so touristy, you cannot climb the pyramid anymore (you can in most other sites), and it’s full of souvenir vendors harassing you. I think it’s still a must-see as it’s so famous.

Another nearby Maya site, less frequented is Ek Balam . You can easily reach it from Valladolid taking a shared cab. Apart from the ruins, there’s also a cenote you can go to ( Xcanch ). The ruins are well preserved with several pyramids. On the main one, spectacular carvings and breathtaking views of the surrounding jungle.

If you have a car, after visiting Ek Balam, you can drive all the way to Las Coloradas to see the pink lakes (the lakes are not always pink, depending on the weather and season, so make sure to ask before heading there to avoid being disappointed).

Is Valladolid safe?

Yucatan State is usually way safer than its neighbor, Quintana Roo. Valladolid is a small city, quiet and safe. You can walk around at night and don’t have to be over-cautious all the time.

Is Valladolid family-friendly?

Yes, you can find plenty of nice hotels, and again the kids will love the cenotes, the ruins, and the light show at the convent.

Is Valladolid budget-friendly?

Yes, there are plenty of hostels and cheap hotels, as well as cheap restaurants. You can easily get everywhere via public transportation. The only “expensive” things would be the entrance to Chichen Itza and to Ek Balam (around 20 US each).

How long to stay in Valladolid?

Staying three days would be perfect but if you are short on time you can squeeze most of it in 2 days. You can visit Chichen Itza on the first day and stroll around the city when you get back. On the second day, you can visit Ek Balam in the morning and one or two cenotes in the afternoon.

Holbox Island

From Valladolid, you can take a bus to Chiquila then a ferry. If you have rented a car, you can leave it in one of the many parking in Chiquila.

What to do in Holbox

Holbox will be the highlight of your trip to the Yucatan Peninsula. There are tons of things to do there. The island is big but only a small part is inhabited, the rest is mostly mangrove and is part of the Yum Balam Protected Area . Holbox is a small village with no concrete roads and hence no cars. The vibe is laid back and authentic.

There you can rent a bike or a gulf cart to go to Punta Coco , the island’s most beautiful beach. In the other direction, you can trek to Punta Mosquito . At night, you can go on a tour to swim with bioluminescent plankton (don’t trust the photos you’ll see, it’s photoshopped, the sea won’t look like a sky full of stars, the plankton is only luminescent upon contact).

You can also take a boat or kayak tour to the reserve, which is stunning. If the boat tour, you’ll go snorkeling to see rays and turtles, and you might also see dolphins (and crocodiles).

Related article – Epic things to do in Holbox

Is Holbox safe?

Yes, it is. The only thing you have to be careful about is cash, there’s only one ATM on the island, and it’s often empty. Most places don’t accept credit cards.

Is Holbox family-friendly?

Yes, you’ll find all sorts of hotel options. The kids will love the boat ride through the reserve, swimming with plankton, and the sea is quiet, so they can swim safely.

Is Holbox budget-friendly?

Yes, you can find a bed in a dorm with air-con for less than 10 US and a hotel around for around 15 US. Because it’s an island food is a bit more expensive but shop at the grocery and cook. In the evening, in the main square, you’ll find plenty of cheap street food.

How long to stay in Holbox

To be worth it, I’ll advise staying at least three full days. You can go to Coco Beach and Punta Mosquito the first day, take a tour of the reserve the second and on the third go island hopping, or spend a day relaxing at the beach.

When you’re done in Holbox, head back to Cancun, where you’ll take your flight home.

Recommended Yucatan Peninsula itineraries

2-week sample itinerary – see the main highlights.

Playa del Carmen – 2D/3N Tulum – 3D/2N Bacalar – 2D/3N Merida – 4D/4N Valladolid – 2D/2N

From Cancun, head directly to Playa del Carmen, where you’ll have two full days. On the third, in the morning head to Tulum, where you’ll spend three days. On the evening on the third day, head to Bacalar. After Bacalar, go to Merida, you’ll lose a day in transportation, so you’ll have 3 full days to explore the city and its surroundings. Spend your last 2 days in Valladolid.

You can also skip Playa del Carmen, head directly to Tulum and finish your trip in Holbox.

4-week sample itinerary – See everything

Cancun – 1D/2N Playa del Carmen – 2D/2N Tulum – 4D/3N Mahahual – 2D/3N Bacalar – 3D/3N Merida – 4D/4N Celestun – 2D/2N Valladolid – 4D/4N Holbox – 4D/4N Cancun – 1N

Travel tips for traveling in the Yucatan Peninsula

What to pack.

• Reef safe sunscreen (most cenotes and beaches don’t allow sunscreen unless it’s biodegradable and reef-safe).
• Mosquito repellent : a natural one for the cenotes and a stronger one for other occasions (FYI the OFF!, the orange one, is forbidden in the European Union because it’s cancerogenic). You can also soak your clothes with a special repellent before leaving home.
• Beach attire (if you have space, snorkeling gear).
• A classy outfit to go out at night.
• Covering but light clothing.
• At night, it can be chilly, so bring a light jacket. (the ADO buses are also crazy-cold)
• You don’t have to overpack with clothes, you’ll find plenty of places that can wash your clothes within the day.
• An action camera or a waterproof case for your phone.
• Good walking shoes and a pair of sandals.
• Something for the rain.

Weather and best time to go

Theoretically, there’s a rainy season and a dry season, but climate change is completely messing this up. You could be there during the rainy season and not get a drop of rain or be there during the dry season and have rain every day. The most popular times to go are in December or July., but you can really visit the Yucatan Peninsula year-round.

The only thing worth checking is the seaweed situation, there’s some type of seasonality but it’s hard to predict. You can check if you plan your vacation last minute, but if you book it in advance its a gamble. You can usually still find beaches without seaweed and you might have to focus your vacation less on beaches and more on Maya sites and cenotes.

You’ll always find cheap accommodations and food. You can further save on these using Couchsurfing and cooking (read how I traveled for 2 months in Mexico with only 650 US ).

What is going to cost you are transportation and tours. For transportation, avoid the ADO buses, and take the slowest, cheapest buses. Another option is to hitchhike, which is fine if you’re a group. Alternatively, you can check out BlablaCar, a carpooling app, where prices are usually half the price of the bus.

As for the tours, most of the places, you can visit on your own, but others you won’t have a choice but to take a tour. Don’t hesitate to ask the price to different tour operators, and try to find people to go with you, the more you are, the cheaper it gets per person.

Renting a car and driving tips

• If you’re going to rent a car, pick an international franchise. Check the vehicle well and take photos before leaving with it.
• Make sure your accommodation has fenced parking spots.
• Roads are good just beware of speed bumps. There are tons of them, sometimes even in the middle of the highway.
• The toll route from Merida to Cancun is crazy-expensive.
• Beware of the municipal police trying to get a bribe out of you. If they ever stop you and ask for money call the state police (911) or the Tourist Police.

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Last updated on October 31, 2023 by Shannon

Jutting from the eastern edge of Mexico, the Yucatán Peninsula is a popular tourism gateway to Mexico. This region has an extensive tourism infrastructure, all spiraling outward from Cancún. Although Cancún has sticky connotations as a party destination for spring breakers—and it has an overpriced, glitzy hotel zone—the city is merely the starting point to one of my favorite regions in Mexico.

The Yucatán Peninsula is safe from the cartel violence associated with other Mexican States, and it’s home to some of the country’s richest history and most gorgeous landscapes (cenotes, anyone?!). The area houses arguably the best preserved Maya ruins, internationally acclaimed dive and snorkeling sites, gorgeous Spanish colonial cities dripping in history, locally run cooperativos offering responsible tourism projects, and densely inhabited animal biosphere reserves.

The Yucatán Peninsula is, in a word, wonderful. I’ve traveled this area several times, most recently with my two young nephews (10 and 11) for a month-long road trip around the Yucatán Peninsula . This is an overview of our route—combined with my knowledge from previous trips—and all the nitty-gritty details of things to do, places to stop, what to eat, and more.

Although you might change-up the activities if you’re a couple or solo traveler, the route is solid and would make a wonderful two- to three-week trip. Read on for the city guides and personal recommendations for this fascinating region of Mexico.

Table of Contents

Things to Know Before Traveling to Mexico’s Yucatan

Maya history is a major draw for tourism. Stunning architecture and reliefs carved into the stone temples bring to life a fascinating, violent, and advanced ancient culture that managed to develop the only known pre-Columbian writing system in the Americas.

Much of the land in the Yucatán Peninsula was once the Maya lowlands. The Maya empire dates back as far as 2400 BC and spanned throughout present-day Guatemala, Honduras, and Southern Mexico.

Throughout the large sweep of land lies a vast network of massive temples and ancient cities; only a small part of the these ruins have been excavated, many still lie under the tangle of forest. 

Several famous Maya archaeological sites are within the Yucatán, Riviera Maya, and Chiapas regions, including Chichén Itzá and Tulum. Maya history is a major draw for tourism, with the stunning architecture of the temples and reliefs carved into the stone bringing to life a fascinating, violent, and advanced ancient culture that managed to develop the only known pre-Columbian writing system in the Americas.

Present day, the Yucatán’s unique limestone base gives the area one of its most famous draws: the beautiful sinkholes and underwater rivers. The Maya used these sinkholes, known as cenotes , for sacrificial offerings, but today they dot the entire region and offer travelers the chance to cool off in the crystal-blue waters. Because of this region’s limestone base, rivers are mostly underground and they connect a large network of caves and swimming spots.

The History Channel has a fuller history of the Yucatán detailed here , and more about the Maya civilization here .

World Travel Planning Resources

From the best travel gear to how to pick travel insurance—a detailed list of resources, tips, and advice to help you plan an amazing trip.

Fast Facts About Yucatan, Mexico Travel

Mexican peso (MXN) ( current exchange rate )

Electricity

127V/60Hz (American plug)

Primary Airports in the Yucatan

• Cancún (CUN)
• Cozumel (CZM)
• Mérida (MID)

How’s the internet in the Yucatan?

WiFi is rampant all over the Yucatan peninsula. It’s available at most guesthouses and cafes.

Can you drink the water in the Yucatan?

No, it’s not safe to drink the water. Drink bottled, use a reusable water bottle to refill at guesthouses, or use a SteriPen .

Mexico Visas for Americans

Visas for Americans—and most travelers—is pretty easy. Americans get a quick stamp in their passport valid for six months. Other nationalities can check the visa requirements here .

Food Considerations

Food standards are high in this area as tourism is the primary income for many. The water is not safe to drink, but bottled water is easy to come by. Street food can be scarce in touristy areas, but is tasty and delicious. If you decide to stick to budget and street food options, follow these food safety principles .

Local SIM Cards

Securing a local SIM card is a cinch and highly recommended for GPS and navigating. Telcel is likely your best option. If you have a U.S. T-Mobile account, it will do the trick too. Full SIM guide here —note that you will likely need to show your passport.

Accommodation

This is a cinch. I used a Lonely Planet guide when my nephews and I were in a pinch. While the links in city guides below go to a my preferred hotel booking site , many are also found on  VRBO , if you are member. It has a very established presence in this region of Mexico and is an easy way to book nice spots in a good area of town, while getting out of the hotel scene. I don’t use this as often when I am solo, so it was neat to have a reason to pick some great local apartments for my nephews and me.

For backpackers, the main hotel booking sites now usually list hostels, too (with no booking fees), or use Hostelworld ; in high season the bigger towns book up fast. Families should consider Booking.com .

And if you buy a local SIM (which you should), you can easily call ahead and directly reserve spots en route. If none of these will do, check out my detailed guide to finding good places to stay .

Festivals of Note

• Semana Santa (Easter)
• Cinco de Mayo (May)
• Day of the Dead (November)
• Festival of San Cristóbal (December)

How to Travel Around the Yucatan

The major roads are well-maintained and connect most any place you’ll need to go. In the center of the Yucatán, some of the cenotes are a bit further off the path and visiting them means winding through tiny towns and backroads. Otherwise, large and well-paved highways connect the major cities.

The Ado bus network is extensive and ideal for those on a budget. These buses are large, comfortable, and affordable. You can check routes and prices through Bookaway to figure out bus versus shuttle pricing.

Rental cars are easy to come by, though expensive to rent—they tack on huge fees and taxes to the offered price. Here is the lowdown on everything you need to know about renting a car in Mexico —I used RentalCars.com for my car and got about the best deal you can in Mexico.

Is the Yucatan Peninsula safe for travelers?

The Yucatan Peninsula is one of the safest areas of Mexico, though that doesn’t mean its unequivocally safe. In general, the Yucatan is safe to travel—that’s why I chose to travel there with my two young nephews. 

Though large swaths of Mexico suffer from cartel violence and safety concerns, the Yucatán has a thriving tourism industry and it works hard to preserve it. There are cartels in the Yucatan, and they have impacted tourism at times— several times, in fact —but in general the major physical safety concerns you find elsewhere in Mexico are dramatically lower here.

And note that the small bribes of the sort that works elsewhere in Mexico are iffier here. Best to just drive the speed limit and follow the laws.

Don’t forget to  book travel insurance for your trip —a great policy provides coverage in case of medical emergencies, lost or stolen gear, adventure sports riders, and more. I’ve used  IMG Global  for more than a decade  highly recommend it !

Pre-Trip Reading Inspiration: Books About Mexico

Fiction and Nonfiction Books About Mexico

• The People’s Guide to Mexico : Even veteran Mexico travelers will enjoy this book. It’s like a guidebook, but even more. It’s hands-down the best guidebook you should use to understand the various regions, the cultural quirks, and all the reasons Mexico is a fantastic place to travel and live. It comes highly recommended by me, and by heaps of Amazon reviewers too.
• Sliced Iguana: Travels in Mexico : On my list for a while now and recommended by readers as an easy read that gives a light touch to all the history and culture she talks about while retelling her journey.
• Time Among the Maya : This is an in-depth longread about Maya culture, history backstory of the entire region. It’s likely something you want to read before leaving as it’s not a travel guide.
• The Maya Sites – Hidden Treasures of the  Rainforest : This book is the perfect road-trip companion for anyone exploring the Yucatan, but also Maya sites in Campeche, Chiapas, and into Guatemala. It’s not a straight-up travel guide, but rather a companion you can use for a history and overview of the temples as you explore, as well as personal recommendations from the author of his favorite parts of each Maya site.

Best Podcasts and Online Reads About Mexico

• Mexico: History and Resistance : A solid podcast that makes listening to the country’s history easy. Download this and prep for your Mexico trip by taking a trip through time.
• Mexico with kids : Good niche read with a lot of facts and information you might be wondering about family specific travel.

Find more regional fiction and nonfiction books and long-reads  and you can read all  my Mexico travel stories .

Recommended Guidebook

We used the Lonely Planet entire time and it was fun to let the kids read aloud the history of each section as we drove. Having a paper guidebook also allowed them to browse through and pick activities in the area. I recommend carrying a Lonely Planet for specific recs and routes and timetables.

Best Things to Do in the Yucatán Peninsula, Mexico

As noted, I took a road trip of the Yucatan Peninsula with my two nephews, and it was an epic adventure filled with all of the best activities that the Yucatan offers. I have also traveled the entire region solo as a backpacker on a budget , and it’s just a lot of fun no matter how you go about it.

The city guides below combine my advice across several trips—I’ve spent a lot of time exploring all of the best things to do, so it’s broken down by activities in each city/region. I also highlight those places where I stayed with my nephews, meaning they are family-friendly options!

My Favorite Travel Experiences in Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula

• Wandering the charming cobblestone streets of Izamal.
• Feeding turtles at the Isla Mujeres turtle farm.
• Ziplining through Xplor Park in the Riviera Maya, near Playa del Carmen.
• Galloping down an old railroad track to the gorgeous cenotes in Cuzamá.
• Wandering the Maya ruins of Chichén Itzá and Ek Balam.

Things to Do in Cancun

Located on the northeastern coast of the Yucatan Peninsula, most trips will start in Cancun since it’s home to the main international airport in the Yucatan Peninsula. Cancun is also the easiest place to rent a car (I found a great deal for our road trip via RentalCars.com ), or arrange buses to explore the region.

That being said, unless you’re into the party scene, you will likely just want to get in and out of Cancun. There are far better cities and towns to do most anything that Cancun has to offer. Let’s assume you have to stay a few days in Cancun, however. Here’s what to do in the city, as well as how to use Cancun’s amenities to prepare for your Yucatan road trip.

Immerse yourself in the turquoise waters of Playa Delfines.

Cancun is best known for its gorgeous beaches. Start your beach experience at Playa Delfines, one of the most picturesque stretches of sand in the area. It offers pristine waters and stunning views. Bask in the sun, take a refreshing dip, or simply relax with a book while enjoying the gentle breeze.

This is a good family-friendly beach if you have time to pass in the city. We spent an afternoon splashing in the waves here. The beach was clean, clear, and relatively shallow. It features good ood parking, and the kids enjoyed it. Note, however, that the waves are too strong for very tiny kids to safely play in the water.

If you want a livelier atmosphere, Playa Tortugas or Playa Chac Mool both have vibrant beach scenes. There you’ll find beach clubs, water sports activities, and beachside restaurants and bars.

Spend a night out on the town.

Alongside its beaches, Cancun is probably most well known for its thriving nightlife scene. There is no shortage of bars, nightclubs, and entertainment venues across the city. If this is your cup of tea, head to the Hotel Zone, where you’ll find a variety of lively nightclubs that host world-class DJs and offer a vibrant party atmosphere.

Alternatively, explore the downtown area to discover more intimate bars and lounges, where you can savor handcrafted cocktails and enjoy live music performances. Obviously this side of Cancun is not as kid-friendly. You can still enjoy the city at night as a family, but it’s more centered around good food.

Eat the streets in the Parque de las Palapas.

To make the most of your evening at Parque de las Palapas, immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere and embrace the vibrant ambiance that fills the park. My nephews just loved spending our evenings in this parque, which was just a three minute walk from our hostel.

As the sun sets, the park transforms into a bustling hub of activity. This was the first place that I sampled enticing street foods during my first visit to Mexico more than 15 years ago, and it’s where I always head each time I find myself in Cancun. This plaza features numerous stalls and vendors where you can indulge in mouthwatering tacos al pastor, crispy marquesitas, and flavorful esquites, while enjoying the live music.

Local cultural performances often take place here too, featuring traditional music, dance, and colorful costumes. It’s fun to find a comfortable spot to people-watch, observing the diverse crowd of locals and tourists who gather for leisurely walks and conversations.

Shop and eat at Mercado 28.

If you’re hungry for local food and a neat experience in Mexico, head to Mercado 28 (Market 28). Located in downtown Cancun, this bustling market is renowned for its diverse food stalls offering a wide variety of traditional Mexican street food. Mercado 28 is a vibrant hub where locals and tourists alike gather to savor authentic flavors and experience the lively atmosphere. You’ll find an array of street food vendors serving up delicious dishes such as tacos, quesadillas, tamales, elotes (grilled corn on the cob), tortas (Mexican sandwiches), and much more.

Stroll through the market’s maze-like corridors, where the aromas of sizzling meats, spices, and freshly baked goods fill the air. From the traditional to the adventurous, you’ll discover an abundance of food options to satisfy everyone in your group. Don’t forget to try local specialties like cochinita pibil (slow-roasted pork), ceviche, and empanadas.

Mercado 28 also offers a great opportunity to interact with the friendly vendors who are passionate about their culinary creations. They are often happy to share their recommendations and provide insights into the flavors and ingredients of their dishes. And if you need to do some souvenir shopping, it’s also a great place to shop for handicrafts, souvenirs, and traditional Mexican products.

Stock up at Walmart.

Not gonna lie, we stayed in Cancun so briefly. We used it as a base to stock up for our trip with a case of water, snacks, snorkel gear, hats, and then we hit the road out-of-town. If you’re planning to road trip the Yucatan, then stopping at Walmart is a no-brainer since you can fill the car with snacks, water, and anything else you need to make the road trip fun and easy!

Sleep somewhere central.

• Airport adjacent Airbnb : We stayed at this fantastic rental the night before our flight and it perfectly served our needs. It’s best if you have a car as it’s outside the city. The amenities make it amazing for families with kids. Since Airbnbs book up fast, consider using a VRBO as well.
• Hostel Ka’beh : Has a nice vibe, though a definite party backpacker atmosphere. I’ve stayed here several times over the years for a cheap bed and good company. It wasn’t great for families though. Cancun International Suites is a good midrange option located near the city centre. If you’re looking for a high-end hotel near the beach try Beachscape Kin Ha Villas & Suites .

Best Things to Do in Isla Mujeres

Isla Mujeres is a great stop for singles, couples, or families. The island has beautiful beaches and a Turtle Farm doing amazing conservation work. If you’ve already rented a car, leave it at the docks in a secure garage (was a cinch to find) and take the ferry over. Book your ferry tickets online ahead of time. You can rent a golf cart on the island to easily get around.

Learn about the conservation work at the Turtle Farm (Tortugranja).

One of the clear highlights of our entire trip, my nephews raved about the Turtle Farm for weeks—it was one of their favorite things that we did while traveling the Yucatan. There are little turtles they can often touch, pools of turtles in varying stages, and a good message about conservation.

You can get a taxi out to it, or rent a golf cart or scooter for the day. They breed and release thousands of sea turtles, was great as a family, kids loved feeding turtles and seeing all the different colors and types.

Drive the island in a rented a golf cart.

Drive around the island for a day or two and explore some of the points on the opposite end of the island. Makes for a full day adventure if you bring swimming gear and plan to explore and have lunch at the expat/local spot in the center of the island.

Frolic in the waters of Playa Norte.

Playa Norte features incredible clear and shallow waters. This beach was a hit with my nephews and it’s the best beach for kids we saw on our entire Yucatan road trip . If you took my recommendation in Cancun then you should have your own pool noodles to float in the wide, shallow waters. Bring drinks and sand buckets for the kids and you’ll never want to leave.

Catch a good night’s sleep.

• Budget : Poc-na hostel : What a gorgeous spot and so much space. We didn’t stay here but our apartment was next door and I’d stay here if I was solo.
• Midrange : Apartamentos Trinchan : Include small kitchen and suites big enough for four people. Very comfortable and convenient spot on the island with a fantastic coffee shop next door. We called and booked our apartment.

Eat something tasty.

There is no shortage of tasty food on the island—these are the places that got our repeat business.

• Manana : Delicious guacamole and incredible fresh juices.
• WikiTravel : Lists out the best restaurants on the island.

Things to Do Around the Riviera Maya (Tulum, Cozumel, & More)

Though this stretch of beaches in the Yucatán is best known for huge, sprawling resorts, it’s popular for a reason—the beaches are gorgeous and there is a strong tourism infrastructure.

I recommend a few days here to visit some of the hotspots like swimming with turtles and amazing snorkeling. If you’re visiting for the party scene, Playa del Carmen has leapt onto that scene in recent years.

Head to a Yucatan-style theme park for the day.

The theme parks near Playa del Carmen are a perfect kid activity (or fun with a group of backpackers!). What makes them unique is how they incorporate many of the high points of the Yucatan Peninsula. Don’t expect roller coasters and a canned experience you could have anywhere—instead you’ll have a adventure-filled day of cenotes and jungle ziplining.

My nephews and I visited Xplor (review here)  and loved it. If we ever go back we’ll surely try out Xcaret or Xel Ha next time. All three parks have offer their own take and their own pace of experiencing the culture of the Yucatan Peninsula.

Dive off the coast of Cozumel.

Ferry over to Cozumel and dive at the best dive spots in the country. This island is the mecca for cruise ships, but for good reason. The snorkeling and diving is fantastic. My nephew still, years later, raves about the sheer number of fish he spotted on a random reef we stopped at just off of the coast.

Eat all the things on a food tour.

Consider a food tour of Cozumel or Playa del Carmen. Cozumel Chef has rave reviews for cooking classes and food tours in the area and would make a great outing.

Snorkel with turtles at Akumal.

On the way to Tulum, if you start early you can hit up this small beach community (about 20 minutes south of Playa del Carmen). This used to be a fun, off-the-beaten-path activity that was low stress on you, the traveler, and on the turtles.

Now, organized tours arrive by 10am, and it’s a bit tougher to justify doing this as a responsible traveler. That said, if you decide to do it, arrive well before then to slip into the water and swim with the sea turtles .

Enjoy the seaside Maya ruins at Tulum.

Miles of white sandy beaches near Tulum make this a popular backpacking stop. We just came for the ruins, and they are very pretty and sunny—bring a hat! My nephews and I stayed for one night but decided we had enjoyed the gentler waters of Isla Mujeres better, so we moved inland.

Stop at the Coba ruins. 

If you have active kids this might be a better stop as you move inland as it’s impressive, less touristy, and you can bike to the ruins and then climb them for sweeping views of the jungly region.

Sleep somewhere nice.

• Playa del Carmen : We just loved Vainilla Bed and Breakfast . It’s in a non-touristy area with food and shops walkable, and a longer walk to the beach is possible. We had a rental car so it was nice to have a spot away from the hustle. Highly recommended, the woman who runs it is delightful and the homemade jams at breakfast were delicious.
• Tulum : We spent our time in Tulum at Hotel & Cabanas Zazil Kin and it was affordable and directly on the beach. You’ll have to splurge for A/C, but it’s an easy walk to the ruins and makes for a nice spot with kids. My nephews played in the sand right outside our bungalow door.

Things to Do in Valladolid

You’ll want to spend at least two nights here as there are several nearby cultural activities, and the town itself is beautiful. There is an old, historic charm to Valladolid and it’s very photogenic. There are also great places to eat and try a variety of Mexican foods.

Spend the day at Chichen Itza.

The major site for most travelers. It’s a large complex with a variety of Maya ruins. Make sure you either have a guide or eavesdrop on a guide at the ball court, as the explanation of the acoustics there is fascinating. This is a thorough online guide to the temples you can explore.

Soak in history at Ek ‘Balam.

Our favorite of the ruins in the area. Although Chichen Itza is the clear draw, Ek ‘Balam is far less touristy and you can climb to the top of the pyramid and see far over the jungle canopy. The site also has some gorgeous restored carvings that give a glimpse of what it might have been like at the height of the Maya empire.

Take a dip at Cenote Dzitnup. 

There are two cenotes in the Chichen Itza complex. Both are beautiful and a great way to cool off for the afternoon.

Admire the Catedral de San Gervasio.

Gorgeous cathedral on the main square that makes a nice backdrop to evenings spent in the plaza central.

Eat the street food.

In the main square of Valladolid, kitty-corner from the cathedral, is a cafeteria type area with tiny restaurants offering niche Mexican eats. We used this for both breakfast and dinner several times.

• Budget : La Candelaria Hostel comes highly recommended for backpackers. They don’t accept children so it’s not ideal for families.
• Vacation Rentals : Though we used a hotel because it had a pool and that was imperative for the kids, I’d easily pick a VRBO on a future trip.
• Midrange : La Aurora Hotel Colonial is a good midrange option.
• Splurge : If you’re looking for something more high-end try Hotel Posada San Juan .

Things to Do in Izamal

All of us agree, there’s something special about Izamal. If we had only used our guidebook, we might have skipped this tiny, sleepy, yellow Mexican town. But I turned to my friend  Wandering Earl for travel planning advice —he lived in the region for years—and he said this was a must-do.

Though we thought to spend just two days here, our hotel was great and the town was easy so we instead spent four days doing little more than playing with new Dutch friends and eating street eats in the central plaza. Plus it’s on the tentative list of UNESCO World Heritage sites in Mexico, so you know it’s going to be interesting.

Hike to the top of Kinich Kakmo Pyramid.

An easy walk in the town and it’s not too strenuous to get to the top and see the town laid out below. If you rent a horse carriage, this is one of the places they visit.

Explore the Izamal Monastery.

The Izamal Monastery (Colonial Franciscan Monastery of San Antonio de Padua) is fascinating, huge, and unique in the world. And, of course, it’s gorgeously yellow.

Wander the charming streets of Izamal.

Really we just walked the town with ice creams in hand and it occupied us for the day. We watched dogs splash in the fountain, we explored hidden nooks-and-crannies, and we generally just enjoyed the slow pace of life in this charming town.

Take a horse-drawn carriage ride through town.

My nephews pushed for a carriage ride. I was skeptical, but it turned out really cute and super fun for the kids. They loved hearing the horse hooves clop-clop-clop through the streets as we jostled along.

Even when we passed by places we had already seen on foot more than once, the horse and carriage made it all more fun as they pointed and laughed.

Eat the street food in the Mercado Municipal.

There aren’t a heap of places to eat in Izamal, but then there are a few street food carts every evening in the town’s central park. The boys lived for the pork sandwiches from the cart right in front of the monastery.

Eat early to ensure you eat at all.

Eat early as the town closes down early and you will be hungry if you wait too late. These are two good spots.

• Kinich El Sabor de Izamal . (Calle 27 #299, between Calles 28 & 30) A good range of Mexican dishes and we all enjoyed what we ordered.
• El Toro Restaurante . (Calle 33, between Calles 30 & 32) Close to the main square and makes a good spot for lunch or dinner.

Sleep somewhere great.

• Budget : We stayed at Hotel Macan Ché and it was thoroughly lovely; they have a very neat cenote-shaped pool where the boys lived for four days. If you’re there in the off-season you could try your luck without a reservation and likely get a slightly better rate.
• Midrange : Hotel San Miguel Arcangel is well located, right on the main square and looking out over the convent. It’s a good, basic but clean option that makes a good spot to explore.

Things to Do in Mérida, Cuzama & Celestún

As you head into this region of the Yucatán Peninsula, the pace tourism drops off a bit. Mérida is known for its language schools, but also for its stunning colonial streets and walkable city center. After leaving Izamal, we stopped at the cenotes of Cuzamá for an afternoon and it was fantastic—then we crashed in Mérida that night.

From Mérida, it’s an easy drive to one of the two biosphere reserves in the region. We opted for Celestún, which is a beach spot for Mexican vacationers more than tourists. The Celestún Biosphere Reserve is the real reason to come and one of the best things to do in the region—it’s home to thousands of mating flamingos. Alternatively, you could venture to Rio Lagartos to see the flamingos as well.

Pass an evening in the Plaza de la Independencia in Mérida.

The plaza at night is magical. The historic colonial streets make for pretty explorations, but for traveling with kids this plaza hums with life as the sun sets. My nephews were endlessly entertained with the vendors, the other kids, and the sweet treats.

Check out the Big Museum of the Maya World in Mérida.

This is a good place to tie together many of the themes and history from other parts of the trip. It has a wide range of activities and exhibits.

Take a horse-drawn cart to the three cenotes of Cuzamá.

Use the map at the top of the post to find Chunkanan, which is where the horse-drawn carts leave for the three cenotes . It’s about 10 minutes outside of the town of Cuzamá. Make sure you go all the way to the end of the road to the right  CBO (community-based org).

There is a different group that will try to flag you into their parking lot, but keep going so that you are spending your funds with a responsible local business fairly and ethically supporting the surrounding community.

Visit the Celestún Biosphere Reserve.

Hire a boat from the collective on the beach and speed through the ocean and into the wide river expanses. Wear a bathing suit as you’ll have the chance to take a dip in some clear blue waters.

Hotel Santa Maria in Mérida worked out perfectly. It was very affordable and close to everything. The rooms were basic but clean and had A/C. They also have a pool and free parking. I’d stay here again.

We stayed at Gutierrez Hotel & Restaurant in Celestún. This place is right on the beach and we enjoyed it. The restaurant attached is terrific, and I loved that I could sit in the shade while the boys dug in the dirt. We called and booked via telephone, but they are online.

This site has a long list of other kid-friendly activities in the region.

Onward travel

Having spent a number of months backpacking Central America and Mexico across multiple trips, plan your time in the following locations.

Mexico » Yucatan Peninsula | Yucatan with Kids | Oaxaca City | San Pancho | Guanajuato | Chichen Itza | Secret Mud Beach | Cultural Immersion | Taco History | Colonial Mexico

Guatemala » Antigua | Tikal | Rio Dulce | Xela | Chichicastenango | Learning Spanish | Semana Santa | Easter Traditions

Belize » Chetumal Border | Culture

Honduras » Copan Ruinas | Utila | Culture

Yucatan Travel Guide: Stories from the Blog

I have traveled the Yucatan Peninsula many times, sometimes solo, and sometimes with my family. Each story was written live on my travel blog as I backpacked the region. Within these posts you’ll find detailed guides and stories about cultural quirks, fun activities, and things I enjoyed doing in every area of the Yucatan.

A Little Adrift… Dispatch from Mexico: Oaxacan Life

A Little Adventure… 3 Weeks with 2 Kids on an Epic Yucatan Road Trip

A Little Photoessay… Snapshots & Stories from Colorful, Colonial Mexico

A Little Recipe… Inspired by Mexico: Lunchtime Bean Quesadilla

A Little Recipe… Inspired by Mexico: Simple Sweet Potato Tacos

A Little Guide … The Art of Travel Relaxation in Five Easy Steps

What is the Cost of Living in a Mexican Beach Town? (2024)

A Little Photoessay… Slice of Life Snapshots of Mexico

A Little Recipe… How to Make a Perfect Guacamole with 1 Avocad

A Little Curiosity… An Unexpected Afternoon with a Taco Stand Family

A Little Oasis… Fun and Friends on a Secret Mud Beach in Mexico

A Little Reflection… On Beach Days, Sunshine, and Childhood Reminiscences

A Little Food … The Anatomy (and History) of a Delicious Taco

A Little Musing… On Beach-Vibes in Mexico and How the U.S. Has Lost Its Sense of Community

A Little Musing… On the Art of Cultural Immersion in Travel

A Little Lesson… Eventually, We All Surrender to the Más o Menos

A Little Confusion… The Mexico to Belize Border Crossing at Chetumal

A Little History… Exploring the Chichén Itzá Maya Ruins

A Little Haiku… First Days in Mexico and an Ode to the Cold Shower

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Road trip through Yucatán

What to see, what to skip, what to know

(Update, December 2022). After three separate Yucatán trips in the last 5 years we’ve gathered all our tips in this blog post to help you prepare for your Yucatán road trip. In fact this post includes two different options for road trip itineraries  as well as tips for each of the proposed locations.

The first Yucatán road trip itinerary is a two week option and the second a one week option, and both include a few days of relaxation at the beach.

When planning your trip to Cancún or Playa del Carmen, Tulum or any other of the wonderful beach destinations in México – we suggest to also  schedule a few days for a road trip through Yucatán. There’s a lot to discover and experience – and it’s really easy and comfortable to travel around.

After a few days at the beach we recommend to plan a short road trip through Yucatán.

Table of Contents

2 Week Yucatán Road Trip Itinerary

When you have two weeks for your Yucatán trip we suggest the following itinerary:

• DAY 1: Arrive in Cancun airport and stay close-by for 1 night to avoid long drives
• DAY 2-4: Tulum beach relaxation
• DAY 5-7: Cobá – Mayan ruins, jungle and cenotes
• DAY 8: Valladolid and Chichen Itzá or Las Coloradas
• DAY 9-11: Holbox – Island vibes
• DAY 11-14: Mérida – Colonial heritage and excursions to Izamal, Uyamon, Uxmal, Yaxcopoil, etc.

If you have even more time on your hands we highly recommend to add a few days in Bacalar as well, but if you only have two weeks this might be a bit too much to combine it all.

1 Week Yucatán Road Trip Itinerary

Are you planning a road trip through Yucatán  but only have one week of time? We’ve had the same dilemma during our first trip and have hence put together an easy itinerary for a short trip. Even if you want to make your beach days count – we’d suggest 3 days at the beach and 4 days with Mérida as home base for excursions. These two locations make for an ideal combination:

• DAY 1-3: Tulum (or another beach destination)
• DAY 4: Drive to Mérida with stops in Cobá & Valladolid
• DAY 5: Mérida – Day trip to Izamal & Tixkokob
• DAY 6: Mérida – Day trip to Las Coloradas & the Pink Lagoon
• DAY 7: Mérida – Day trip to Muna – Uxmal – Kankirixche – Yaxcopoil

During our first Yucatán trip in 2017 we stayed in Tulum for 3 beach days (read more about our Tulum beach hotel Azulik here ) and then used Mérida as our homebase for the remaining 4 days .

The central location of Mérida – the capital city of Yucatán – is ideal for discovering a lot of the peninsula and the bonus is that it has some nice hotels and sights by itself (read more in our blogpost about 72 hours in Mérida ).

Mérida is a convenient (and beautiful) base for traveling through the state of Yucatán.

Road trip tour stop: playa mujeres.

During our second Yucatán visit we opted to stay close to the airport in Playa Mujeres at Atelier Playa Mujeres Resort for two nights. Playa Mujeres is a resort-clad beach destination with all-inclusive hotels and a wide stretch of beach. We wouldn’t recommend staying here longer than 1 or 2 nights, but to recover from the long flight it’s an ideal location, as it’s just 30 minutes away from Cancún International Airport.

Road trip tour stop: Tulum

Tulum is undoubtedly the most hyped place on the Yucatán peninsula . We visited the famous beach destination in January 2017 for the first time and spent some wonderful days at the iconic Azulik resort. Since then a lot has changed and we haven’t felt the urge to return for a longer stay. Yet, if you’re looking for top notch hotels, hip vegan eateries, moonlit beach parties and instagrammable infinity pools it’s still worth a trip.

Read more about our stay at Azulik resort here and don’t miss our 5 tips for a stay in Tulum here.

The ruins of Tulum are worth a visit when you’re staying at the beach.

Road trip tour stop: cobá.

On our way from Tulum to Mérida we knew that we wanted to stop in Cobá. Cobá is famous for it’s vast complex of Mayan ruins, but during our first visit we skipped an exploration, because we knew we were going to see Uxmal – which is a much larger complex and where you can still walk up some of the buildings to get viewpoints from above. In Cobá this is forbidden by now and you can’t climb the ruins anymore.

But Cobá doesn’t only have the ruins – it’s also the location of the beautiful Coquí Coquí Cobá Residence. This  private hide-away with it’s perfumery and a handful of suites is a true hidden gem in the jungle. If you want to make Cobá your homebase for a few nights during a road trip we can definitely recommend this place.

During our third Yucatán visit we stayed here for three nights and it’s as tranquil and secluded , but still luxurious, as it gets. This is also when we decided to visit the ruins of Cobá early in the morning (before the day visitors arrive from Tulum) and enjoyed them completely on our own.

Read more about Cobá and our stay at the Coqui Coqui residence here!

While the residence is beautiful, the rest of Cobá doesn’t have a lot to offer (apart from the ruins).

Road trip tour stop: valladolid.

Another place that we would recommend for either a day trip or a few days of overnight stay is Valladolid. This colorful city is definitely worth a stop . During our first road trip we only stayed in town for a few hours to walk around and explore and visit the market, but during our second Yucatán visit we decided to stay in the city for 3 nights .

It’s the perfect base to visit nearby Chichen Itzá , the most famous Mayan pyramids and remains in Yucatán. After having seen Uxmal and the Tulum ruins we were blown away by the size and splendour of Chichen Itzá, but of course they are also among the most visited places in Yucatán, so you better come early in the morning to enjoy it in relative tranquility.

Other than that you can also visit nearby Mayan villages like Yalcobá during a guided tour to learn more about today’s indigenous culture and explore cenotes like Palomitas and Agua Dulce Cenote (we tried both and loved the relatively quiet experience at both).

Restaurant tips for Valladolid:

• Empanadas at Tresvanbien
• Elela Organic Vegan Café y Restaurant

Visit the market and meander through the streets of Valladolid. The colourful facades make for great photo motifs .

Road trip tour stop: Holbox

We visited the island of Holbox in 2021 and had heard how many people mourned the “loss” of the untouched island paradise. In fact this is far removed from a secret and has become quite a popular addition to any Yucatán itinerary. Hence the development is moving quickly – new hotels and restaurants are opening on a monthly basis and the stretch of beach has become clad with bars, massage parlours and tour guide huts.

Yet, we think it’s still worth a stop as much of the island is under protection as Yum Balam National Park and remains untouched, the beaches are still incredibly beautiful (and don’t suffer from Sargasso like the beaches at the Eastern coast of Quintana Roo) and the choice of hotels is becoming quite appealing!

Read more about our tips for a 2023 visit of Holbox here .

Road trip tour stop: Izamal & Tixkokob

After we arrived in Mérida we checked into our first hotel  (Diplomat Hotel) and discovered the city. On the second day we started our road trips from there.

The capital of the Yucatán state is located right in it’s center, so you can easily reach all the relevant places by car. One of the first things on our list was a visit of the yellow city called Izamal .

Our verdict: It’s not our favourite place in Yucatán. While the city is really quite photogenic with all it’s yellow facades, it feels quite touristy when compared to other cities in the region. The convent is an iconic building that sits atop of ancient Mayan ruins . This fact alone speaks volumes about the disregard for the local history and culture by the Spanish settlers.

On our way back to Mérida we made a short stop in Tixkokob. Due to it’s lack of Mayan ruins (and other classic sights), this city is mostly left roadside by visitors. Well, that’s just right up our alley! 🙂 While the name of the city means “place of poisonous snakes” in Mayan, we didn’t feel like it was such a bad place.

At dawn thousands of birds meet up at the main square along with all the locals gathering for dance lessons, grabbing Tacos at one of the food stalls or just chatting in the streets.

Tixkokob lets you get a sense of the local life in Yucatán and is definitely worth a stop!

Road trip tour stop: Las Coloradas & The Pink Lagoon

The pink lagoon is probably one of Yucatán’s most iconic photo motifs. It is located in Las Coloradas, a rather unglamourous salt mining town at the shores of the Gulf of Mexico. But it has two magic arguments: Pink water and Flamingos .

Read more about our visits of the Pink Lagoon at Las Coloradas in our blogpost with a lot (!) of flamingo shots and updated tips from what has changed between 2017 and 2022.

The color of the pink lagoon is all natural and comes from it’s inhabitants:  red plankton and shrimps . You can even spot the color on satellite pictures of Las Coloradas:

Pro tip: Plan at least half a day here. You will want to see the pink water around noon , as the color is most intensely visible during the mid day hours. Then stay until sunset to drive around the area to discover flamingos feeding.

Road trip tour stop: Uxmal, Kankirixche, Yaxcopoil

Our last route brought us to the South of Mérida. This is the holy trinity of Yucatán experiences  all packed into one (still relaxed) day:

• An exploration of Mayan ruins in Uxmal
• A swim in a Cenote in Kankirixche
• A peak into history at a Sisal hacienda in Yaxcopoil

These are about the main three things you have to do when you visit México. So if you can only do one day of road trip during your visit of Yucatán  this is the one to do !

Mayan Ruins of Uxmal

The beauty of Uxmal is threefold: It is way less visited then the famous big sister Chichen Itza, the ruins are from different periods and all very distinct in their architecture and they are extremely well preserved while still very accessible .

While you can’t climb the main pyramid, there’s a temple set atop of a hill that you can climb to overlook the whole city , which shows the grandeur and wisdom of the Mayan people in one glimpse.

A part of the Uxmal city as seen from atop one of the temples

Swim in the cenote at kankirixche.

Yucatán is like a Swiss cheese – the ground has more holes than anyone could count. There’s supposedly  hundreds or even thousands of caves and underground rivers and water holes !

No wonder that the locals have their very own Cenote in each little village . This is where the Mayans used to get their fresh water from and nowadays they are welcomed places to cool off during hot days. At Kankirixche the Cenote is located a 20 minutes drive away from the next village in the middle of the jungle :

You’ll have to take a sandy and extremely rocky path through the jungle to get there, but it’s well worth the trip. The Cenote is accessible via a wooden staircase and during the noon hours the sun comes in from the hole in the top. The water is fresh and cool and you can see countless meters through it’s turquoise crystal clear structure. You’ll spot fishes and stalactites and stalagmites and of course the occasional bat will fly over your head.

Visit the hacienda at Yaxcopoil

This hacienda feels like their owners had to leave it on a short notice. They left all of their personal belongings there, so you get a real sense of what life on a Sisal farm must have felt like.

The entrance gate is already impressive.

Yucatán used to be quite rich during the days of the flourishing Sisal trade . And this is still visible in the Haciendas.

Behind the main building with all the living rooms you can discover the workshops and warehouses . All the old machines are still there, as if they had just stopped running yesterday.

This is one of the warehouses – looks more like a palace when you ask us!

Stop in a local town like Muna

There’s nothing better then to stop in a city, that’s not on the map for tourists . Just to discover some local life, stroll through the streets and buy fresh fruits from one of the farm stands. We did just that in Muna and loved it! Here are some impressions from a “normal” village in Yucatán:

Road side stops are the best part – especially if there are snacks involved! 😉

Road trip tour stop: bacalar.

This place was a true discovery in 2021 for us and hence we returned in 2022. We fell in love with the turquoise coloured fresh water lake, the hidden Habitas Bacalar A-frames in the jungle and the unspoilt tranquility and serenity we found here.

Make sure to check out our blog post about Bacalar to learn more about this magical place.

Is it safe to drive in Yucatán?

Are you wondering if it’s a good idea to drive a car in México? You might wake up at night with nightmares of rocky roads, deadly traffic or having a car accident in a foreign country.

“Driving in México scares me, so I’ll just stay at the beach.”

Everyone heard or read these stories: People who got robbed in small towns out of their rental cars or got a flat tyre in the middle of nowhere and waited for hours in the soaring sun without any water – until eventually the roadside assistance would come and help them out of their misery.

Basically – all of this could happen and nobody can guarantee you otherwise. But: Yucatán is probably way easier and safer to drive than you would ever imagine! So, we recommend to take a road trip.

Your rental car will probably be better than this car – no worries 😉

Travel preparations for your road trip through yucatán.

It’s easy as 1-2-3! Make sure to rent a car online before your trip – we always use a price comparison portal to check a few of the local rental stations with just one search. However you proceed with your booking, definitely opt for a comprehensive all-risks insurance . This is a pre-requisite for driving in México!

If you haven’t booked your insurance online, they will charge you a hefty sum at the rental station! When we were at the desk of our rental company in Cancún at the airport a lady had to call her credit card company to make them send an insurance confirmation letter (in Spanish!) to the rental company, because she hadn’t booked it with the rental car.

This was our rental car (Economy category, but enough for two people).

When you pick up the car, definitely check all sides and make photos of it (not just of the previously damaged spots, but of all sides of the car and especially the rims and the exterior mirrors). Just so you can proof that you didn’t cause any of these damages upon return! Our car was pretty scratched and had a couple of dents in the roof and the bumpers.

All of this is actually quite standard routine for us when we pick up rental cars, so there’s no real specifics here. Of course the car won’t be the newest model, but they are quite cheap to rent! We didn’t even pay 150 dollars for 8 days including a full insurance package.

Further Yucatán reading

• The iconic lagoon of Bacalar
• Tulum: Tips for an active beach holiday
• Cobá: The jungle hideaway

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Road Trip through Yucatán in Mexico: Our 3 Week Travel Itinerary

Mysterious Mayan Ruins. Paradise Caribbean beaches. Turquoise blue Cenotes. No doubt about it: the Mexican peninsula of Yucatán sure knows how to impress. For three weeks, we made way around the Yucatán Peninsula with our rental car.

Which stops are worthwhile? Which destinations should you leave out if you are tight for time? Where can you find secret locations and insider tips? Is there an ideal route? And how safe is it to travel by rental car through the Yucatán region in Mexico? What should you watch out for? We’ve put all of our tips in this blog post so you can prepare the perfect itinerary for your Yucatán road trip.

1. Our Yucatán Itinerary: All Destinations and Info

2. by car through the yucatán: travel tips & facts, 3. booking a rental car in mexico: our tips.

First of all, to avoid future possible confusion, we have to tell you that: “Yucatán” refers to both the state of Yucatán and the entire peninsula (“Yucatán Peninsula”), which consists exactly of the three states – Yucatán, Quintana Roo and Campeche (which is also shown on the map above). Our itinerary passes through all three states.

Arrival and Departure Airport: Cancún

Cancún Airport is the largest airport on the Yucatán Peninsula. Most international flights arrive or depart from here. We did not actually see anything in Cancún except the airport as we came across too many negative reviews about the hotel-bunker-strewn Cancún beaches, which put us off.

Shortly after our arrival, we drove our rental car from Cancún airport to Tulum. Tulum is one of the most popular seaside resorts along the Riviera Maya. We deliberately chose a more touristy place as the first stop on our road trip. The reason: We wanted to give ourselves time to get used to the new country and in a place with good infrastructure . For example, we got our Mexican SIM card here in Tulum.

It was not love at first sight between us and Tulum, but over time we did warm up to the place. The beaches and the Mayan ruins on the cliffs were very exciting and very impressive. But overall, we found the direction of the tourism in Tulum rather unsettling. In Tulum, the word “Instagram Hotspot” takes on a whole new meaning. The fact that Tulum is so popular is also reflected in the price level. Tulum was the most expensive stop on our entire tour.

Arrival from Cancún to Tulum: The route runs through well-developed roads. Don’t worry, if your flight arrives in the afternoon: We drove in the dark ourselves and did not reach Tulum until around 8pm. That was no problem at all on this road. The journey takes just under 2 hours .

Our accommodation: Biwa Tulum Detailed blog article: Tulum Travel Guide Recommended stay: 3-5 nights (we stayed 4 nights)

We went further south to the small, cozy place of Bacalar, which is located on a turquoise blue lake . The fascinating shades of blue and turquoise gave the lake its nickname the “Lagoon of Seven Colours” .

The bad news: There is not much to do around here. The good news: This is not entirely true, because you are surrounded by shimmering blue waters which also happens to be swimmable. If you want to relax for a few days, you are in good hands here in Bacalar.

Getting from Tulum to Bacalar: From Tulum you can reach Bacalar after about 2.5 hours by car . Our tip: Best to fill up the car (with petrol) while still in Tulum. There is also a remote petrol station on the way, but you’d rather not have to rely on that.

Our Accommodation: Hotel Aires Bacalar Detailed blog article: Bacalar Travel Tips Recommended stay: 2 nights (unfortunately we only stayed 1 night)

Xpujil (Calakmul & Becán)

From Bacalar we went inland to the tiny town of Xpujil. Xpujil is the ideal base from which to explore the fascinating Mayan Ruins of Becán and Calakmul . Both ruins are still comparatively untouched by mass tourism.

While Becán is easily accessible (almost right next to the main road), the mysterious Calakmul is in the middle of the deepest jungle far away from any civilisation. Both ruins are among the most impressive we visited on our road trip through the Yucatán.

Getting from Bacalar to Xpujil: Xpujil is accessible from Bacalar in less than 2 hours. Parts of the road along this route are not in very good condition… so get ready for some potholes! Incidentally, you only pass by a few towns/villages, as the region is very sparsely populated. Heads up: There is a time zone difference of one hour between the states of Quintana Roo and Campeche – so you gain an hour on the way to Bacalar.

Our Accommodation recommendation : Casa Ka´an Detailed blog article: Calakmul & Becán Recommended stay: 1 night (enough to visit both ruins)

The cozy colonial town of Campeche had us besotted from the very first moment. Although you will not find any impressive sights here, the lifestyle and the atmosphere of the city is just fantastic. There is no sign of mass tourism here: Campeche has retained a very authentic charm.

Incidentally, the pastel-coloured, beautifully renovated house fronts make for a popular photo motif. Along certain streets, Campeche looks like a Mexican picture book city .

Getting from Xpujil to Campeche: This stretch is one of the longest of the entire journey. Overall, you are travelling for about 4 hours . There are only a few major locations along the route. Often you drive through no man’s land. The road conditions in some places are heavily deteriorated, so you definitely need to pay close attention to potholes. The last part of the journey is back on the highway (Toll fee: 72 Pesos).

Our accommodation: Casa Mazejuwi Detailed Blog Article: Campeche Tips Recommended stay: 2-3 nights (we stayed 2 and found it perfect)

Mérida is the capital in the State of Yucatán. Unsurprisingly, the centre is very vibrant and lively . Mérida is probably the most visited colonial town on the Yucatán peninsula. Meaning: Mérida was more touristic than we expected. Nevertheless, we liked it very much: The various colourful streets and the colonial flair are just too beautiful.

From Mérida, there are some great day trips you can do: For example, there are the Mayan ruins of Uxmal, the flamingo colonies in Celestún or a visit to the “yellow city” of Izmal.

Travelling from Campeche to Mérida: It takes about 2 hours by car from Campeche to Mérida. However, we decided to visit the Mayan Ruins of Uxmal on the way to Mérida. Although the Ruins of Uxmal was not exactly on our route to Mérida, we found the detour very worthwhile.

Our accommodation: Viva Merida Detailed blog article: Merida Sights & Tips Recommended stay: 3 nights (which is what we did)

Chichén Itzá

To go on a Yucatán trip without seeing the World Wonder of Chichén Itzá – is practically unthinkable. This famous ruin site is quite a tourist magnet , so we knew that we had to find a way to escape those peak hours. Our alternative? We decided to explore Chichén Itzá at sunrise – an experience we can highly recommend.

Getting from Mérida to Chichén Itzá: Chichén Itzá can be reached in about 1.5 hours by car from Mérida. We took a little detour (+30 minutes) to Izamal on the way. The so-called “yellow city” is very worth seeing.

Our Accommodation: Mayaland Hotel & Bungalows Detailed blog article: Sunrise at Chichén Itzá Recommended stay: 1 night (sufficient for a visit to the ruins and the Cenote of Ik Kil)

Valladolid comes quite close to the idea of ​​a typical Mexican town . We felt right at home here. In our opinion, Valladolid combines the comfort of Campeche and the liveliness of Mérida. Again, there are pretty streets with pastel-coloured colonial houses and cobble stones.

From Valladolid you can also visit some destinations, including the Mayan Ruins of Ek Balam, the pink salt lakes of Las Coloradas and several Cenotes – some of which are very impressive.

Travelling from Chichén Itzá to Valladolid: This was actually the shortest leg of our journey – just 45 minutes by car to Valladolid.

Our accommodation: La Flor Casa Boutique Detailed blog article: Valladolid Tips Recommended stay: 2-3 nights (depending on how many trips you want to do – for us, we stayed 3 nights)

Isla Holbox

Before returning home, we wanted to spend some relaxing days on a Mexican island. We decided on the highly praised Isla Holbox in the north of Yucatán. To be honest, we did not have the best start to our time in Holbox, mainly due to a bad weather front, which turned the supposed paradise into various shades of grey.

In the end, we did warm up to Holbox and we can highly recommend the island to you if you want to switch off for a few days. But do not expect an untouched paradise, as the island’s capital is rather touristic.

Getting from Valladolid to Isla Holbox: First you have to drive by car to Chiquilá (about 2 hours). You then have to leave your car in Chiquilá and pay for parking (100 pesos per 24 hours). Then you take the ferry transfer to Holbox. The boats depart daily from Chiquilá at every hour and every half hour. The journey takes just 15 minutes and costs 200 pesos (one-way). Here, you cross another time zone – this time in the other direction. Coming from Valladolid you “lose” an hour.

Our accommodation recommendation: El Corazón Boutique Hotel Detailed blog article: Isla Holbox Recommended stay: 3-5 nights (we stayed 3 nights)

Playa del Carmen

For us personally, it was a little to “tricky” to travel all the way from Holbox to Cancún Airport in one go (although it is definitely possible in theory). But we stayed for two nights in Playa del Carmen, so that we were at least on the mainland for the day of departure.

To be honest though, the real draw was actually our own curiosity. We wanted to see if Playa del Carmen really did live up to its negative stereotypes of crowded hotel bunker beaches. Our conclusion: Playa del Carmen is definitely not our favourite place on the Yucatán and in our opinion can easily be skipped. We were so glad to have discovered the beach named Xpu-Ha – luckily, we got to enjoy a wonderful last day in Mexico on the beach.

Our accommodation recommendation: Hotel Morgana Detailed blog article: Playa del Carmen Travel Guide Recommended stay: a maximum of 2 nights

Security & Crime: Is It Safe To Travel By Car Through Yucatán?

If you search the Internet for crimes in Mexico , you would probably feel like cancelling the flight immediately. The culprit is the Mexican drug war, which brings the country an absurdly high murder rate. However, only in very rare cases, are tourists involved in these. Plus, the Yucatán Peninsula is one of the regions in Mexico that is considered most safe.

We can only speak from our personal experiences. In the three weeks we spent travelling by car across the Yucatán Peninsula, we had zero negative experiences . Not a single one. Not even remotely. On the contrary, the locals always responded to us in the most hospitable and helpful manner.

But we do not want to downplay anything, because the fact is, there are (very rare) cases of robbery. Therefore, if possible, we recommend that you only drive during the day and avoid driving in the dark . We did not always succeed in this regard either – so do not panic if you do have to drive by car in the evenings.

You should also be aware of the dangers of car burglaries in parking lots. Although you have to be very unlucky for something like that to happen. It goes without saying that valuables should never be left in the car.

Military Checkpoints & Police Checks

Something you have to get used to are the numerous military controls along the roads. It seems quite frightening at first: Men in uniform (usually with a machine gun) controlling the passing cars. Luckily, we were not stopped once. The military is primarily there to detect or prevent drug smugglers and other illegal goods.

Should you be stopped anyway, then it’s worth having Google Translate on hand, unless you speak Spanish.

We read some horror stories about some corrupt police just before our trip. Fortunately, we were spared. When we did encounter police officers, they were always very friendly and helpful. Nevertheless, we recommend that you do not keep all your money in your wallet when travelling around. We really adhere to this – why? Because if you are ever stopped by a corrupt police abusing their power and insisting you pay, then at least you won’t lose all your cash.

Traffic on the roads & road conditions

Good news: In Mexico, they drive on the right ! Therefore, for those who come from Europe and other non-commonwealth countries, you don’t have to change anything. For those who come from the UK, Australia, NZ and other Commonwealth Countries with Left Hand traffic – you have to get used to driving on the opposite side, so be careful and drive mindfully. Outside the cities, there is relatively little to no traffic on these Mexican roads. Be prepared for many narrow one-way streets (but with oncoming traffic).

The speed limits are always well written. On country roads they are usually between 80 and 100 km/h, on highways they are at 110 km/h – but never more.

Beware of potholes! There’s a lot of that on the streets of Yucatán. Some of them are very small, others are gigantic and quite hazardous. Therefore, another reason why would recommend you drive during the day, because it can be dangerous at night, when you can’t spot the potholes in advance.

Special Surprise on the streets of Yucatán: Topes

A very typical sight on Mexican streets, are the abundance of speed bumps – what they call “ topes ” here. They make your driving experience a bumpy affair and you will normally find these topes (speed bumps) especially before and after villages. Topes are – according to the local people – something like the sleeping policemen on the streets of Mexico.

Those we speed over a tope, will certainly not make the same mistake again so soon. Topes are often pointed out and there is usually a sign to warn you (but this is not always the case!). Especially on the outskirts, it’s so important to drive carefully and reduce your speed significantly .

Our (self-proven) tip, if you miss a tope once and come at it with high speed: then shortly before the tope, you should let go off the brakes so that you don’t rush over the speed bump with the brakes pressed. That spares the shock absorbers.

Most of the roads on the Yucatán Peninsula don’t have road tolls (“libre” – free). But the road conditions of these ‘free’ paths are often worse than the tolled roads (“cuota”). Tolled roads are marked with the letter “D” . However, there are not many on the Yucatán peninsula – the most famous is that of Cancún or Playa del Carmen to Mérida.

The tolls are not overly expensive. For example: Valladolid to Chiqilá (Holbox) cost 187 Pesos, and Chiqilá (Holbox) to Playa del Carmen was 107 Pesos. You can often avoid the tolled roads but you do so at the expense of time.

For most places in the Yucatán, finding a free parking space for your car is no problem. The sign for parking in Yucatán is an “ E ” – abbreviated from “Estacionamiento”. A crossed out “E” means parking is prohibited.

In the cities like Campeche and Mérida : when driving in the city centre, you have to pay careful attention to the coloured marking along the sidewalk edge on the ground. If it is marked in yellow, this means no parking. If you do park there, then you risk having your car towed. While we parked in Campeche on the street without any problems – in Mérida, we were advised to park in a supervised, paid car park for safety reasons. Either way, both are possible.

In Tulum Beach (along the Beach Road), it is becoming increasingly difficult to find free parking. We have discussed the problem and how you can get around this in more detail here: Tulum Travel Guide .

The Mayan Ruins often have free parking. But sometimes there is a charge (for example in Uxmal and Coba), but there, the parking is also monitored with security cameras for safety reasons.

Petrol Prices & Fuelling Up

One Litre of Petrol currently costs 20 pesos, which is about 90 cents. The majority of gas stations are state-owned and called PEMEX . Nowadays, you can also find smaller gas station companies. Usually the staff will come and help you fill up , so you simply tell them how much you want to fuel up for and they do it for you. Small tip: Very rarely does it happen, but some petrol stations only accept cash payment.

Do you need to know/speak Spanish?

Yes and no. We both hardly speak a word of Spanish. On our trip to Mexico, we wished that we spoke a little more Spanish so that we could at least converse with the locals. Outside of major tourist destinations such as Playa del Carmen and Tulum, there is often little English spoken on the Yucatán Peninsula.

We recommend that you keep Google Translate (or a comparable offline translation app on your phone) handy. That helped us a lot in many situations. You can download the ‘Spanish’ and ‘your native’ language on Google Translate App, so that you can use it ‘offline’.

Do I need an International Driver’s License?

No – at least not to pick up the rental car. But just in case, we had our International Driver’s License issued in Austria and brought it with us, but no one ever requested for it. We also have to say that we have never been stopped by the police.

Important Information about Motor Insurance in Mexico

Very, very important: In order to drive on Mexican roads, you need a Mexican Insurance . At first glance, car rental deals in Mexico often appear extremely cheap. With such low offers, however, you can almost guarantee that the price for the insurance has been excluded from that – therefore, upon pick up, you might be in for a surprise, when the final bill is almost double what you initially expected.

Especially if you are looking for a rental car in the USA, many rely on credit card insurance, but this is not accepted in Mexico. In any case, we didn’t want to take the risk, because in the case of an accident, it would not look good for us at all.

Tip: this is how we book our rental cars

For the reasons mentioned above, we always insist on a full comprehensive insurance with reimbursement of the deductible/excess. That’s the safest way to go about renting a car and that is also why we always book our rental cars through Sunny Cars and have done so for years – Mexico was no exception.

Sunny Cars acts as a middle-man. So you book through Sunny Cars and pick up your car at one of the local car rental companies (EuropCar was ours). The big advantage: You have all necessary insurance included and in case of damage you will also be reimbursed by Sunny Cars for any deductibles or excess paid.

Because we have read so many horror stories in advance, we inquired about this issue once again with regards to the insurance. The very helpful staff then confirmed that everything was covered. Our pro tip: Always make a short video upon picking up the car and showcase all sides of the car, including any existing damage… just in case.

You can search for cheap rental cars via this link here: Sunny Cars

Which class or type of car should I rent?

The road conditions are relatively good and there is certainly no need to fork out on an SUV. Nevertheless, we almost never rent out the smallest models because in the case of an accident, we personally prefer to have too much rather than too little in terms of crumple zone. You cannot go wrong with the lower middle class or middle class cars .

Do I need a GPS?

A classic GPS is definitely not worth it. Most of these are expensive and/or are obsolete (not updated). Instead, our tip is: buy a local sim card from a store nearby and use your smartphone as navigation.

It is also possible to drive completely without a GPS, as long as you have at least one road map. However, we were both very happy that we could rely on the Maps app on our smartphones .

Disclaimer: Affiliate Links

This blog article contains our personal recommendations in the form of so-called affiliate links. If you book or buy something through these links, we will receive a small commission. For you, this does not change the price at all. A million thanks from the both of us!

Have you done a road trip through the Yucatán region of Mexico before? If so, what did your itinerary look like? We look forward to reading your experiences and tips in the comments below.

You might also be interested in this

The Most Beautiful Cenotes of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula

Playa del Carmen: Travel Guide & Our Honest Experience

Yucatán in Mexico: Practical travel tips and information for your trip

11 responses.

Hi, the blog is great. I am just wondering where you parked your car while staying for multiple days? Did you just park it on streets?

so sorry for our late reply. Yes, we mostly parked our car on streets. Wasn’t any problem. :)

Safe travels Kathi & Romeo

The military checkpoints and corrupt cops sound kinda scary. Do you think this road trip is doable as a solo female or should I try to do this trip with a partner? I would love to visit all of these amazing sites, but I love traveling solo so safety is always a big concern.

Hi Nicole, we shared some of our experiences in this article: https://www.sommertage.com/en/yucatan-mexico-travel-tips/ We felt safe the entire time. Of course, we can only speak from our perspective but we would consider it a safe place for solo female travelers. Safe travels, Kathi & Romeo

Thank you so much for this – it is really amazingly helpful.

I am visiting for 2-3 weeks in December and I’m considering following your route!

Regards Rob

Really nice blog! I love the honesty. I am going to travel a similar route in 11 weeks from now! Super excited!

What was your budget for 3 weeks? How expensive is Mexico? Do you have a blog on that topic.

Hi Steven, Thank you so much! We shared some costs in this article: https://www.sommertage.com/en/yucatan-mexico-travel-tips/ :) Safe travels, Kathi & Romeo

Thx for all these tips. Quick question : The picture in the paragraph “Do I need an International Driver’s License?”. where was it taken? (It’s beautiful!) Thx!

Hi Sandy, thank you so much. That picture was taken in Valladolid. :) Safe travels, Kathi & Romeo

Loved this post. Really factual and an interesting view on each location that I can relate too. My partner and I are traveling soon to the same area but only for 2 week. Is there anything you feel we should avoid? Thanks

Hi, we would probably skip Playa del Carmen next time. That’s just our opinion. It was our least favorite place on the Yucatán, but some people like it. ;) Safe travels, Kathi & Romeo

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Yucatan Backpacking Route with Map (10 to 14 Days)

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Guide and Route for Yucatan Backpacking: How can you travel Mexico without a car? Where to stay in Yucatan? How many days do you need? Find out in our efficient two week Yucatan Peninsula itinerary!

We love Mexico! So much so that we have travelled there twice already. We love the food, the tropical climate, the history, and the beaches. Additionally, it’s super easy to travel around with public transport. Even if you only speak little to no Spanish.

For our Yucatan travel blog, we have tried and tested this detailed and honest Yucatan 2 weeks itinerary ourselves.

Backpacking Yucatan Guide

Yucatan backpacking itinerary: 10 day yucatan itinerary, day 1 – backpacking valladolid, day 2 – day trip from valladolid to chichen itza, day 3 – day trip from valladolid to las coloradas, rio lagartos, and ek balam, day 4 – backpacking tulum, day 5 – explore the cenotes in the tulum area, day 6 – day trip from tulum to sian ka'an, day 7 – day trip from tulum to akumal, day 8 – backpacking laguna bacalar, day 9 – exploring laguna bacalar, day 10 – scuba diving or snorkelling in mahahual, yucatan backpacking itinerary: 2 week yucatan itinerary, day 11 to 14 – relax in an all-inclusive resort, how much time do you need backpacking the yucatan peninsula.

If you like fast paces travel like us, 10 days in Yucatan is enough to see the highlights.

As this is a fast-paced Yucatan 10 day itinerary, we skip the tourist capitals Cancun and Playa del Carmen and focus on more off the beaten path places.

With only 10 days in the Yucatan Peninsula, we opted for fewer bases (hence fewer travel days) and more day trips. This way you can really make the most of your (limited) time.

If you have more time and want to get some relaxation in, you can extend our route to a 2 weeks Yucatan itinerary.

Backpacking the Yucatan Peninsula with Public Transport

You can reach the best places in the Yucatan Peninsula with public transport!

Bus: By far the best resource to find buses is ADO . Their schedules are online and you can also directly buy your tickets online. The coaches are comfortable and punctual.

There are also regular “second class” buses in most areas and we have jumped on a passing coach ourselves often enough. It’s hard to find information online about them so it’s best to go to the bus station and/or ask locals.

Colectivo : Colectivos are shared taxis that leave as soon as they have enough passengers. They are our preferred mode of transportation for shorter rides as they are cheap, frequent and reliable. And it’s ok if you don’t speak any Spanish as all the drivers we encountered as well as the other passengers were very helpful. If you want to be safe, make sure to ask the price before the journey but we personally never had any problems with scams.

How Much Does Backpacking Yucatan by Public Transport Cost?

Travelling around Mexico by public transport is very budget-friendly. For short Colectivo rides you should expect to pay around 1$ or 1€, for longer rides like Valladolid – Chichen Itza expect to pay around 2$ or 2€.

Even the longest ADO bus rides on the Yucatan peninsula shouldn't set you back more than 15$ or 15€. Short bus rides like Bacalar – Mahahual come as cheap as 3$ or 3€.

Itinerary Yucatan map:

We decided to leave the Caribbean side of Mexico for the end of our trip and start in the beautiful city of Valladolid. You’ll fall in love with the colourful houses and the oldtimer Volkswagen cars in a heartbeat.

If you want to refresh in Mexico you don’t have to jump into the sea as there are plenty of Cenotes – natural limestone holes filled with groundwater. One of our favourites is Cenote Zaci , a hidden gem right in the centre of Valladolid.

Make sure to not only visit the main park or Parque Principal with the adjacent San Servacio church but also the Convent of San Bernardino de Siena . By the way: Right next to the main park you can find the food market where you can get a delicious first taste of Mexican cuisine.

How to Get from Cancun to Valladolid by Public Transport:

ADO buses from Cancun airport run here frequently. Travel time is around 2 hours.

How Long Should I Stay in Valladolid?

We suggest staying in Valladolid for at least three days: One day to explore the city itself, one day for Chichen Itza, and one day for a day trip to Las Coloradas and Rio Lagartos. Add another day if you also want to visit Yucatan’s capital Merida .

Of course, one of the seven new wonders of the world is a must-see in this region and it really is worth a visit. In contrast to what you see online (we’re guilty of that too I guess) it’s not only the famous pyramid but also a huge archaeological complex with many ruins and even a Cenote. The Mayan site includes highlights like the observatory and the ballcourt so schedule a couple of hours for the visit.

How to Get from Valladolid to Chichen Itza Without a Car:

By public transport:.

We decided to take a Colectivo to Chichen Itza and also on the way back. Early in the morning, there was almost no waiting time in both directions. They start right in front of the bus station. Of course, you can also take the bus. The driving time is around 45 minutes.

Chichen Itza Tour

A guided Chichen Itza tour is the more convenient option:

Who wouldn’t want to visit the Instagram-famous pink lakes of Mexico? Although you’re not allowed to swim in them anymore they are still a special sight to see. Yes – they are really pink! It’s one of the most unique things we have ever done.

As visiting the lakes themselves doesn’t take very long, we suggest combining your trip with a visit to nearby Rio Lagartos . A boat tour will be a real highlight of your trip: you can see flamingos and give yourself a fun Mayan mud spa treatment. At the end, you wash off the mud in the Gulf of Mexico.

An additional gem on your way to Las Coloradas is the Mayan archaeological site Ek Balam (picture in header). In total, there are 45 structures and in contrast to Chichen Itza, you can climb the pyramid here.

How to Get from Valladolid to Las Coloradas Without a Car:

Taking a bus to Las Coloradas is not straight forward: First, you have to take a bus from Valladolid to Rio Lagartos. You probably have to change in Tizmin.

From Rio Lagartos, it’s another 20 km (12 mi) to the pink lakes. You need to take a taxi for this leg of the jounrey.

Las Coloradas, Rio Lagartos, and Ek Balam Tour

Because we wouldn’t be bothered to deal with public transport, we opted for a guided tour of Las Coloradas, Rio Lagartos, and Ek Balam :

Tulum nowadays is a love it or hate it kind of situation. But even if you’re not into the whole Instagram scene, the town is still worth a visit in our opinion. It’s the perfect base to explore the surrounding cenotes and beaches. We also found some cheap hostels and street food.

Of course, the ruins are a must-see. The buildings themselves are nowhere near as impressive as Chichen Itza but the stunning location at the sea makes up for it. You can even enter the beach below the ruins for a swim. Where else in the world can history be as easily combined with a beach trip as here?

Make some time to explore the beach south of the archaeological zone. And who wouldn’t want to end their day trips in one of Tulum’s incredibly instagrammable beach bars? Try it at least once!

How to Get from Valladolid to Tulum by Public Transport:

Going from Valladolid to Tulum can be easily achieved by ADO direct buses, which run several times per day. Travel time is around 1.5 hours.

How Long Should I Stay in Tulum?

We suggest staying in Tulum for at least four days: One to explore the famous ruins, one to visit several cenotes in the area, one for a trip to Sian Ka’an, one to swim with turtles in Akumal, and some additional time to explore the beaches, the bars and restaurants, as well as all the Instagram hotspots if you’re into that 😉

Cenotes are natural limestone holes filled with groundwater that are perfect for swimming, snorkelling, scuba diving, or simply relaxing. There are over 6000 cenotes on the Yucatan peninsula so it’s easy to find the perfect cenote for you – be it in a cave or open-air, off the beaten path or with good infrastructure, big or small.

One of the closest cenotes to town is Cenote Calavera . This cenote is little more than a little hole in the ground inviting you to jump in.

A bit further away is Gran Cenote . Like the name says, this one is bigger. It features platforms on the water to relax. You can visit turtles, who live in an area of the cenote which is off-limits for swimmers. It’s mostly open-air but features a small tunnel from one part to another.

Cenote Zacil-ha offers a lot of infrastructure. You can find a restaurant and a zip line. It’s right next to Cenote Carwash which is open-air and feels more like a pond than a cenote but it’s significantly less crowded.

How to Get from Tulum to Cenotes Without a Car:

One of the cheapest ways to reach the Cenotes in the Tulum area is by rental bicycle. There are many Cenotes along the Carretera Tulum – Nuevo X-Can highway. Be aware when you drive it because right next to you will have fast cars and trucks passing by.

Some of the most noteworthy Cenotes are:

• Cenote Zacil-ha and Carwash (9km or 5.5mi from central Tulum)
• Gran Cenote (4.5km or 2.7mi from central Tulum)
• Cenote Calavera (2.5 km or 1.5mi from central Tulum)

You’ll find plenty more cenotes signposted driving along the highway – just explore them to your heart’s content.

Tulum Cenote Tour

If you cannot be bothered to bike along a busy highway, a guided cenotes tour is the option for you:

Sian Kaʼan is a biosphere reserve. It features tropical forests, fresh and saltwater swamps, mangroves, and even a section of coral reef in the sea. Additionally, you can find 23 Mayan archaeological sites including Muyil.

Muyil is a great vantage point to explore Sian Ka’an as the ruins are very close to the road. When we visited, we didn’t see any other tourists and the overgrown buildings in the forest gave us serious Tomb Raider vibes.

From the ruins, a wooden boardwalk leads to the boats. Don’t miss the observation tower although it looks a bit sketchy. The views are worth it.

The boat tour will be a real highlight of the trip. You’ll drive through the lagoons, do some bird watching and even have the chance to spot manatees (unfortunately we didn’t on our trip). The best part of the tour is the natural lazy river. You’ll put on a life jacket and float down a canal only surrounded by crystal clear water and serene nature.

How to Get from Tulum to Sian Ka'an Without a Car:

Buses from Tulum to Muyil run about every 30-60 minutes, so there’s no real need to plan in advance. The buses leave from the ADO bus station and take around 20 minutes.

We decided to take a colectivo from the ADO bus station to Muyil which was equally easy and cheap.

Sian Ka'an and Muyil Tour

A guided Sian Ka'an and Muyil tour is or course the most convenient option:

We loved snorkelling with turtles in Akumal. We’ve snorkelled with turtles in many places before and we can say that we had a great experience in Akumal as we easily saw several turtles. Additionally, the white sandy beach is a nice little spot to dry off and relax a bit afterwards.

Go there early. Not only to beat the crowds but also because the bottom is sandy and the water gets cloudier throughout the day. We brought our own snorkelling gear so we didn’t opt for a guided tour. Just head towards the seaweed areas and you’ll probably spot a turtle quickly. Be respectful, leave some space to this wild animal, and of course never touch it.

How to Get to Akumal Without a Car:

Taking a Colectivo from the ADO bus station in Tulum to Akumal is easy, cheap, and straightforward. We have read online that the entrance to the beach gets successively blocked and places charge you to enter so be aware of that.

Akumal Tour:

If you want to avoid any potential hassle, you can opt for a guided Akumal tour :

The Laguna Bacalar or Lagoon of Seven Colours is breathtakingly beautiful. On your first day here just check out one of the many beautiful beach clubs and relax after your travel day. If you’re feeling more active, you can check out the San Felipe Fortress in the centre.

How to Get from Tulum to Bacalar by Public Transport:

Direct ADO buses from Tulum to Bacalar run very frequently. Travel time is around 3 hours.

How Long Should I Stay in Bacalar?

We suggest staying in Bacalar for at least one full day: The lagoon itself presents so many highlights and you shouldn’t miss out on relaxing at one of the many gorgeous beach clubs.

Get out on the water today! Rent a kayak and explore the lagoon yourself or go on a guided boat tour . Highlights are

• several small islands like Isla de los Pajaros
• cenotes in the lagoon like Cenote Esmeralda or Cenote Cocalitos
• the pirates’ channel
• a Mayan mud spa treatment with lagoon mud
• stromatolites – Stromatolite is the Greek name for layered rock. They are formed by microorganisms and present one of the first life forms on earth. Nowadays, they are super rare. I’m a trained geologist so trust me, this is incredibly cool.

Mahahual is a real paradise for snorkellers and scuba divers. Like the whole Caribbean coast of Mexico, it’s located at the Mesoamerican Reef System, the second-largest coral reef system in the world after the Great Barrier Reef. In contrast to places like Playa del Carmen or Cancun, it’s significantly less crowded here.

I’ve honestly done one of my best scuba dives ever here (and I’ve done 67 in total so far). The reef is in good condition and I saw a whole school of rays!

If you prefer snorkelling, you can reach the reef directly from the beach so you don’t have to book a tour if you are confident enough to go on your own. Guided tours can lead you to even remoter stretches of the reef as well as turtles.

Mahahual is also a great place to relax with cabanas on the beach, hammocks in the sea, bars with swings as chairs and other instagrammable goodies – while being significantly less crowded than Tulum. Beware that Mahahual has a cruise ship port so it can get crowded on cruise days.

How to Get from Bacalar to Mahahual by Public Transport:

There is one direct bus from Bacalar to Mahahual leaving at. There are also Colectivos running this route but less frequent than in other places because they take longer to fill up. The ride takes around 1.5 hours.

How Long Should I Stay in Mahahual?

Mahahual is mainly great for snorkelling or scuba diving . The length of your stay depends on how much time you want to spend underwater. For us, one full day in Mahahual was enough.

You’ve seen a lot of Yucatan in just 10 short days. We recommend spending a couple of days in an all-inclusive resort in the Playa del Carmen or Cancun area and relaxing before you go home. It’s one of the best places in the world to try and enjoy this experience. We just love that style of travel because we often go backpacking on limited work holidays and need some relaxation after a packed backpacking trip.

• PRIVATE Jacuzzis in every room!
• All rooms with sea view!
• Location on the beach.
• Amazing pools!

How to Travel on from Mahahual by Public Transport:

Buses from Mahahual to Limones start running very early in the day and run approximately every hour. From there, buses run up and down the coast frequently as this is the main Cancun - Chetumal highway. It’s super easy to reach every resort along the coast. Our bus driver even dropped us off directly in front of the gate 🙂

From Limones, it’s also easy to head further south to Chetumal close to the Belize border or further north all the way back to Cancun airport .

How Long Should I Stay in an All-Inclusive Resort?

We suggest staying in a resort for at least two full days: Most resorts are so big that you need some time for orientation. There are several spots on the beach and at the pool to relax. Additionally, there are oftentimes many different bars and restaurants. We always love to start with the buffet-style restaurant and visit an a la carte restaurant on our second evening. Additionally, there are often many activities included such as a gym or sports classes you might want to take advantage of.

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Merida Mexico Things to Do + Yucatan Travel Guide

I first fell for Merida years ago, as a stop on a small group tour through Mexico and Guatemala.  Since then, I’ve returned several times to experience this vibrant city and its museums, history, and culture.  This guide includes all the tips you need to explore the cultural gem of Merida, Mexico!

Known as “The White City,” Merida is one of the oldest inhabited cities in the Americas.  It was founded as a colonial capital in 1542 by Spanish conquistadors, on the remains of the Maya city of Tho.  Today, it’s the capital city of the Mexican state of Yucatan, and has been named the American Capital of Culture twice, in 2000 and 2017.

Visiting Merida is a feast for the mind and senses with colorful architecture, fascinating history and museums, and a gastronomy scene recognized by UNESCO for its cultural heritage.  Merida is also at the center of exciting day trips in every direction: beaches, Mayan ruins , historic haciendas, refreshing cenotes, colonial cities like Valladolid , and even an ecological reserve with flamingos.

This Merida travel guide will give you all the inside details you need, from restaurants and tours to unique places to stay like boutique hotels and haciendas.  Plan to spend several days to a week here to explore the best things to do in Merida, Yucatan Mexico and the region!

This article contains affiliate links. If you click through and make a purchase, I might earn a commission, at no additional cost to you. Thanks for your support in this way! Learn more in my Disclosure Policy .

In This Travel Guide to Merida, Yucatan

Best Things to Do | Plaza Grande | Catedral de Merida | Walking Tours | Paseo de Montejo | Museums | Shopping & Markets | Yucatecan Cuisine | Merida Restaurants | Cantinas | Cenotes | Mayan Ruins | Cementerio General | Day Trips | Haciendas | Where to Stay | Colonial Homes | How to Get to Merida | Best Time to Visit | Merida Festivals

The Best Things to Do in Merida, Mexico

To plan your Merida itinerary, these are the must-see sights. I’ve included tour options as well to help you maximize your sightseeing time.

1. Visit the Plaza Grande of Merida, Mexico

Merida’s charming zocalo, or main square, is located in the center of town and is known as the Plaza Grande and Plaza de La Independencia.  This is a great place to start your Merida adventure.  You can get a feel for the town, grab a meal, do some shopping, visit museums, and watch street performers.  Especially on weekends, the entire city comes to live in the Merida Centro and its busy streets with cultural events.

The square is wide, with shade trees and park benches, and is surrounded on all sides by museums and historic buildings.  There is also free WiFi if you want to do any planning.

Catedral de Merida

Overlooking the central plaza is the Cathedral of Merida, also known as the Catedral de San Ildefonso, the oldest church on the American continent.  It was completed in 1598 on the site of the Mayan city of Tho, using stones from the original city’s construction.  When you visit, look for traditional Maya markings and carvings on the stones of the cathedral.

Lovers’ Chairs: “Sillas Tu y Yo”

While in the Plaza Grande, be sure to get a photo in Merida’s famous “you and me” lovers’ chairs.  These are curved white conversation benches for two, where the occupants sit side by side but facing opposite directions.  Local lore says these were invented many years ago by an overprotective father when his daughter reached courting age. 😉

Merida’s main square also has one of the famous city name signs” so be sure to grab a photo there too! 

Pok Ta Pok Ballgame

Each Saturday night at 8:30 on Calle 60 in front of the Cathedral and Plaza Grande, there is a re-enactment of the ancient Maya ballgame known as Pok Ta Pok. During this cultural event you can watch the players engage in a fierce mock battle, accompanied by traditional live music.

Palacio De Gobierno

The Palacio De Gobierno (Government Palace) overlooks the Plaza Grande. Built in the late 1800s, the Palace also holds gorgeous murals by Fernando Castro Pacheco of scenes from the history of Mexico, from Mayan times to the colonial era and the republic.

The Haphazard Traveler Pro Tip: Photo Spot The Palacio De Gobierno is a great place to get photos of the cathedral from its 2nd floor gallery.

2. Take a Walking Tour to Explore Merida

Merida, like many cities and important cultural centers, has companies that offer free walking tours.   One of the top tours is hosted by the Merida Tourism Office, located in the Palacio Municipal (Municipal Palace).  The 1.5-hour tour departs from here Monday-Saturday mornings at 9:30 and explores the city’s historic center.

I always recommend a tour when you first arrive in a new destination.  You can get an idea of the city’s layout, and ask for inside tips from your leader and other travelers.  It’s also a great way for solo travelers to meet folks!

Alone or as part of a tour, Merida’s colorful streets are packed with colonial structures and fun to stroll.  Merida is one of the largest city centers in North America, so there is a lot to see and experience.

Merida, Mexico Walking Tour Details The free tour is offered every morning Monday – Saturday, and leaves from the Merida Tourism Office in the Palacio Municipal. More details here and find the tourism office here . If this tour doesn’t fit in your schedule, here is another free guided walking tour or the top-rated Merida walking tour with Mike and Duck .

3. Stroll the Paseo de Montejo

Paseo de Montejo is a historic boulevard lined with turn-of-the-century homes built in French and Italian Renaissance-inspired styles. These were the homes of Merida’s elite families, who prospered from an economic boom in the late 19th and early 20th century from the henequen trade. This plant has sisal-like fibers used to make twine, rope, and fabrics.

These colonial mansions were filled with Tiffany glass, European-style furnishings, and fine materials imported from all over the world.  Several of the homes can be toured as museums (see below), while others remain private residences.

Along Paseo Montejo, you’ll see cafes, mansions, and monuments. These include the Montejo Monument near Plaza Santa Ana and Monumento a la Patria (Monument to the Fatherland). At the start of the route, look for Las Casas Gemelas: twin houses built by the same architect for different families, about 10 years apart. See if you can spot the differences in ornamentation added over the years!

On Sunday mornings, a Merida weekly tradition takes place when one lane of Paseo Montejo closes for bicyclists in an event called La Bici Ruta.  Along the way you’ll find live music and vendors, including bike rentals, and you can ride all the way to Plaza Santa Lucia park for lunch.

4. Explore Merida’s Museums, Historic Homes & Galleries

Yucatan’s capital and largest city of Merida offers a veritable buffet of museums!  Here are some of the best that you’ll want to experience.  The history museums in particular are a good compliment to visiting Maya ruins in the area and will give you a deeper understanding of the region’s history.  If you have time, I recommend choosing at least one history museum, an art museum, and one of the historic homes.

Museo de Arte Contemporáneo Ateneo de Yucatán MACAY

The Fernando Garcia Ponce Museum, also known by its acronym MACAY, is the only comtemporary art museum in Merida with art by national and international artists. Located in the Plaza Grande right next to the Merida Cathedral, the museum has a large collection ranging from the early 20th century to present day. There are permanent galleries, three permanent rooms with works by Gabriel Ramirez Aznar, Fernando Castro Pacheco, and Fernando García Ponce, and 15 temporary exhibit rooms that change every few months.

Fernando Garcia Ponce Museum ( MACAY): Map location | Museum website

El Gran Museo del Mundo Maya

Located north of the colonial center, this striking modern museum is dedicated to the history of the Mayan civilization. Its exhibits contain information and artifacts about daily life, culture, language, science, and people both before and after the arrival of the Spanish.  Signage is in both Spanish and English, and it offers many interactive exhibits. 

El Gran Museo del Mundo Maya: Map location | Museum website

The Anthropology and History Museum

Located inside the beautiful Palacio Canton on the Paseo de Montejo, this museum contains exhibits and artifacts from Maya, Aztec, and other civilizations.  There is considerable information on Mayan language, history and culture, including Maya language glyphs.  Signage is in Spanish.

Museo de Antropología e Historia / Palacio Cantón: Map location | Museum website

Museo del Arte Popular

This is one of my favorite museums in Merida, which showcases a variety of Mexican art including folk art, pottery, and textiles.  The collection here is from all over Mexico, with a permanent collection from the Yucatan. There is also a small gift shop.  Located near the Parque de La Mejorada, a few blocks from the Plaza Grande.

Museo del Arte Popular: Map location | Museum website

Museo Casa Montejo

Located in the Plaza Grande, this museum is located in The former home of Francisco de Montejo and his family, where were conquistadores and founders of the city of Merida.  The museum contains original furnishings dating to when it was built in 1549.  There is also a serene courtyard, as well as temporary art exhibits.

Museo Casa Montejo: Map location | Museum website

Nahualli Casa de los Artistas

This private home and gallery is owned by a family whose artistic works make up a large part of the collection.  Paintings, sculpture, and etchings are on display in a colonial home and garden.

Nahualli Casa de los Artistas: Map location | Gallery website

Quinta Montes Molina

This museum is still the home of a prominent Merida family and is located on the Paseo de Montejo. You can take guided tours to experience its architecture and history.

Quinta Montes Molina: Map location | Museum website

5. Shop Merida Markets, Boutiques & Galleries

Whether you’re looking for souvenirs and snacks or just want to experience local culture, Merida’s shops and markets offer all of this and more.  

What to buy in Merida, Mexico

Need a souvenir?  These are some of the best products to buy in Merida.

• Purses, hammocks, and other items made from henequin, a local plant similar to agave grown for its sisal-like fibers
• Jewelry and artisan goods
• Art from local galleries
• Artisanal Mexican chocolate (did you know Mexico is the birthplace of chocolate?)
• Pox (pronounced “posh”), a specialty liquor rooted in a traditional Mayan distilled drink from maize, sugar cane, and other flavors
• Xtabentun, an anise and honey rum liqueur produced by Casa D’Aristi at its distillery outside Merida

Local Handicrafts

Near the Plaza Grande, stop in Casa de las Artesanías del Estado de Yucatan for an assortment of local artisan goods and handicrafts.

Map location: Casa de las Artesanías

Mercado Santa Ana and Santa Ana Parque

On Calle 60 around the cute yellow Santa Ana church and park, you can find art galleries SoHo and Terracotta, the silversmith Uxmal de Taxco, and other boutique shops.  The Mercado Santa Ana here has open air restaurants which are popular with locals, especially for breakfast.

Map locations: Parque de Santa Ana | Mercado Santa Ana

Mercado de Santiago

Next to the Parque de Santiago, the Mercado de Santiago is a local market for vegetables, fruit, tortillas, meats, and fresh flowers, as well as food stalls where you can try traditional Yucatecan foods.

Map location: Parque de Santiago

Mercado Lucas de Galvez

The main market in Merida, Lucas de Galvez, dates back more than 100 years, and sells everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to meats and fish, souvenirs, sandals, clothing, and much more.  There are food stalls here for an inexpensive meal, including aguas frescas (fruit blended with water and lime juice) and good tacos.

Map location: Mercado de Lucas de Galvez

Near the Parque Santa Lucia

Near the Parque Santa Lucia, find Ki’Xocolatl, a shop and restaurant serving hot and iced coffee drinks, Mexican chocolates, and desserts.  Also near here, Coqui Coqui Perfumeria & Spa is a boutique hotel, spa and perfumery.  Stop in to see its posh decor as well as shop for candles, perfumes and linen sprays.

Map location: Parque de Santa Lucia

Paseo de Montejo Shopping

Along the Paseo de Montejo, find Posheria , a quaint cafe offering traditional Mayan pox liqueur, coffee drinks and beans, and artisan goods. There are other boutique shops, coffeehouses, and more along the route.

Local Market Tour If you’d like to experience Merida’s market scene on a tour with a local expert, check out this guided culinary experience .

6. Dig Into the Merida Foodie Scene

Merida has an amazing gastronomy scene, with regional dishes from throughout the Yucatan as well as cultural influences from elsewhere in Mexico and worldwide.  From street carts and cafes to fine dining, you won’t go hungry in Merida!  Some of the traditional Yucatecan foods to try include:

• Marquesitas: warm, paper-thin crunchy wafers with your choice of fillings rolled up inside.  The most popular is a salty and sweet combo Nutella with Edam cheese.  I prefer just the Nutella, but recommend that adventurous eaters try both!  These can be found at food carts in the Plaza Grande and elsewhere in Merida.  
• Cochinita pibil: this must-try traditional Maya dish starts with preparing an entire pig in a sour orange citrus marinade and the local spice achiote (annatto seed), then cooking it underground in banana leaves. The high acid content of the marinade and the slow cooking time result in a very tender meat.  Cochinita pibil is served with tortillas, pickled onions, and other toppings.

• Poc Chuc: a Mayan/Yucatecan version of boiled or grilled pork.
• Papadzules: a version of this traditional Yucatecan dish might have even pre-dated the colonial era in Mexico.  These are corn tortillas dipped in a sauce made from pumpkin seeds and filled with hard-boiled eggs, then garnished with a cooked tomato-pepper sauce. 
• Sopa de lima: one of my favorites, this soup is made with turkey or chicken and a lime found in the region, topped with crunchy strips of fried tortilla.
• Panuchos and salbutes: panuchos are fried handmade corn tortillas stuffed with refried beans, then fried again and topped with chicken, cochinita pibil, relleno, ground meat, or seafood.  Salbutes are similar, but are less crispy and are made without the refried beans.  Both are served with lettuce, pickled onions, relleno negro, tomato, avocado and other toppings.  
• Queso relleno: a gourmet dish featuring ground pork inside of a carved Edam cheese ball served with tomato sauce.
• Huevos motuleños: a breakfast food which originated in the nearby town of Motul. The dish is made with eggs on tortillas with black beans and cheese, often with other ingredients such as ham, peas, plantains, and salsa picante.
• Elotes: grilled corn on the cob, smothered in butter and mayonnaise, then rolled in cotija cheese.  It’s finished off with a sprinkle of chilli powder and salt and a squeeze of lime.

Where to Eat in Merida, Mexico

Merida has an amazing restaurant scene, from street food and market stalls to fine dining.  In the Plaza Grande, you can find pop-up stalls in the late afternoon and evening for a quick local meal.  Be sure to also check out the markets above for more low-key options.

Throughout the city, you’ll find antojitos (“little cravings”).  These street snacks are usually small, savory bites intended as appetizers or as a late-night snack after a few drinks.

Merida Street Food Walking Tour Explore Merida’s street food scene with this top-rated walking tour led by a local expert.

Merida Restaurants

These are some of the top restaurants for your Merida itinerary.

• Wayan’e : classic Merida bistro (practically a local institution!) for tacos, breakfast, and castacan (fried pork belly).  Open just for breakfast and lunch.
• Kuuk: chic, fine dining experience in Merida with Yucatecan dishes prepared using molecular gastronomy and fresh ingredients, most of them grown on-site.  Reservations are needed.
• La Chaya Maya : traditional Yucatecan fare popular with both locals and tourists
• Museo de la Gastronomia Yucateca : Hip restaurant featuring local classics and craft cocktails, with outdoor seating
• Catrin : artistic, colorful restaurant featuring inventive takes on Yucatecan favorites and expert mixology. Plus a great ambience: at night there is an outdoor light show and music.
• Mercado 60 : food “market hall” located near Santa Lucia featuring 18 different restaurants serving Italian, French, Thai, Asian, Yucatecan, Lebanese food, and more.  There are also local bands, artists, handicrafts, and special events on weekends.
• Hermana Republica : Yucatecan favorites, craft beers, and cocktails in a hip setting
• ChilaKillez : breakfast and lunch spot for chilaquiles, a traditional Mexican breakfast made with tortilla chips simmered in sauce
• Dulceria y Sorbeteria Colon : founded in 1907, this ice cream parlor located on the Paseo Montejo offers 14 flavors of ice cream and sorbets plus handmade cakes.

Where to Grab a Drink in Merida

Merida has lots of bars and cantinas, many of which offer 2-for-1 happy hours in the afternoon and early evening!  Whether you’re looking for cervezas, margaritas, mixed drinks, or even craft beers, you’ll find have an easy time find a place for a cool and refreshing drink in Merida.

• La Negrita Merida: Bohemian cantina that’s been a hangout for Merida locals for more than 100 years.
• Eladio’s: Mexican cantina popular for its botanas – a round of snacks brought with each order or drinks.
• Malahat Speakeasy: secret bar in Parque Santa Lucia with a sophisticated ambience and elegant cocktails .

More Merida Tours for Foodies Want to delve deeper into Merida’s gastro scene? Check out this cooking class and market visit or a private Yucatecan cooking class in a local home. Or visit three local bars with this fun cantina walking tour !

7. Cool Off in a Cenote

Dotted across the landscape of the Yucatan Peninsula, you’ll find thousands of cenotes, which are pools that form when limestone bedrock collapses.  In ancient times, they were revered by the Maya as portals to the underworld and a precious source of freshwater. Today, they serve both locals and tourists alike as swimming holes!  Some cenotes are located in underwater caverns, while others are open to the sky, and some have both open and cavernous sections.

Some of the best cenotes to visit near Merida are the Homun cenotes, Cuzama cenotes, Cenote Hacienda Mucuyche, and Cenote Kankirixche. 

Cenote Tours from Merida Ready for an adventure? Don’t miss these guided tours including transportation and lunch to the Homun Cenotes and Cuzama Cenotes .

8. Explore Ancient Mayan Ruins Near Merida

In addition to cenotes, the remains of Mayan cities are also spread across the Yucatan Peninsula, down into Guatemala and Central America.  The most famous ruins in Mexico, Chichen Itza, are about an hour and a half away. Seeing ancient ruins is one of the top things to do in Merida: check out these nearby sites.

Dzibilchaltun

Located about 10 miles north of Merida, Dzibilchaltun is a small Maya site.  Dzibilchaltun is notable for its accompanying museum, beautiful cenote Xlacah, and its Temple of the Seven Dolls, named for small effigies discovered during excavation. You can take a colectivo or taxi from Merida, or book a tour like this option that includes the beach town of Progreso.

Chichen Itza 

Chichen Itza is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and was voted one of the New 7 Wonders of the World.  It’s also one of the most-visited tourist sites in Mexico. Surviving monuments at Chichen Itza include the main temple, the Pyramid of Kukulkan (also known as El Castillo); the Great Ball Court, the largest of its kind in Mesoamerica; El Caracol, an astronomical observatory; and the Temple of Warriors, an enormous temple with hundreds of stone columns.

Chichen Itza Ruins Tours from Merida Beat the crowds with an early Chichen Itza access plus cenotes or take a private Chichen Itza tour . Or see Chichen Izta with Izamal and cenotes .

Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site , Uxmal (pronounced “oosh mahl”) is one of the most important Maya archaeological sites.  It is built in the “Puuc” architectural style of the region, with building facades made of plain blocks on the lower part of structures, and intricate mosaics on the upper sections. 

Uxmal is about an hour south of Merida, and there are three other smaller ruins sites in the same area: Kabah, Labná and Sayil.  These sites share the UNESCO designation with Uxmal.  If you want to see a less crowded ruin that looks like a smaller version of Chichen Itza, Mayapan is also within an hour drive from Merida.

Uxmal Ruins Tours from Merida Check out this tour to Uxmal and Kabah , Uxmal with Hacienda Yaxcopoil , or this Uxmal itinerary with the Loltun caves, Sayil, Xlapak and Labna . Chocoholics can visit Uxmal with a chocolate experience .

Ultimate Mexico Ruins Guide: 20+ Best Mayan & Aztec Ruins

Love history and ruins? Don’t miss my guide to the best ruins in Mexico for your bucket list, including top day trip tours to visit each!

9. Visit the Colorful and Peaceful Cementerio General

While it might seem odd to some, I often visit cemeteries during my trips in Latin America.  I like to see how different cultures remember departed loved ones.  Mexico especially has a unique perspective on death as evidenced in their Dia de Los Muertos festival (check out my vi rtual field trip here to learn more).  Even separate from this holiday, many families visit cemeteries on weekends to spruce up graves of loved ones.

The main cemetery of Merida, Panteon General, has colorful graves dating to colonial times.  There are even stately mausoleums, crypts, and many statues.  

Map location: Cementerio General

10. Best Day Trips from Merida, Mexico

In addition to the ruins and cenotes, there are several interesting cities and sights that can be seen on day trips from Merida.

Valladolid | Charming Colonial City

The charming city of Valladolid, Yucatan is another great day trip from Merida.  If has a colorful colonial center with a cathedral and Cenote Zaci, as well as a 16th-century convent.  There are underground cenotes nearby including Samula, one of the most Instagrammable cenotes.  Valladolid is only about 45 minutes from Chichen Itza.

• Find all my tips for visiting Valladolid on a day trip or stopover.

Celestun | Biosphere Reserve with Flamingos

Celestun is a sleepy fishing village which is home to secluded beaches and the Reserva de la Biosfera Ría Celestún, a wildlife sanctuary with flamingos the star attraction. I haven’t yet been to Celestun, having opted to see flamingos in Rio Lagartos on a day trip when I stayed in Valladolid. 

Izamal | The Yellow City

Nicknamed “La Ciudad Amarilla” (“The Yellow City”), Izamal is a small town in the state of Yucatan. Izamal is famous because all of its buildings are painted the same sunny yellow!   Visit the convent here, shop for souvenirs, and have a traditional Yucatecan lunch.  You can also explore the Mayan ruins of Kinich Kakmó in the city center.

Hit the Beach in Progreso

Puerto Progreso is the closest beach to Merida, just 45 minutes outside of town.  This is a popular port for cruise ships and there are many bars and restaurants to enjoy for the day.  Get to Progreso easily via car if you decide to rent one, use the luxury bus Auto Progreso , or take a tour like below.

Best Day Trip Tours from Merida See the best of the region with a private tour to Izamal or tour to Chichen Itza with Izamal . See Progreso with a stop at the Dzibilchaltun ruins and cenote . Or travel further afield with a full-day trip to Campeche and Becal .

Haciendas Near Merida, Yucatan

Near Merida, there are several options to visit traditional colonial haciendas or plantations that date to the 18th century.  You can stay in several of them overnight, or just visit for the day for a meal and to imagine daily life here centuries ago.  All of them were built thanks to the henequen trade boom.

Hacienda Yaxcopoil

Hacienda Yaxcopoil (YASH-coh-poh-EEL) is a Yucatan plantation dating back to the 17th century. The Hacienda is well-preserved but unrestored. It’s open daily for tours and offers a private guest house, museum of Mayan artifacts, gift shop, and snack bar.  This hacienda is on the way to Uxmal and can be combined on a tour for a day trip.

Hacienda Sotuta de Peon

Sotuta de Peon is a restored, working hacienda in Merida.  Here you can see what henequen farming and production entails, as well as cool off in a cenote.  Stay for lunch at the onsite restaurant.

Hacienda Xcanatun

This hacienda is just a 20-minute drive from Merida’s center. After years in disrepair, Xcanatun was recently restored by new owners. You can now stay overnight or visit its restaurant and gardens. 

Hacienda Santa Cruz

Located just a few miles outside Merida, Hacienda Santa Cruz is a former Franciscan monastery built in 1640. Today it’s a boutique hotel where you can stay overnight , enjoy lunch, and indulge with a spa day.  

Hacienda Tours from Merida Want to experience Merida’s haciendas with the ease of a tour including transportation? Visit Uxmal with a stop for haciendas and cenotes, or step back in history to experience the working Hacienda Sotuta de Peon .

Where to Stay in Merida | Best Hotels in Merida Yucatan Mexico

In addition to the haciendas above, Merida has many boutique hotels, budget stays, and hostels to fit any travel style and budget.  Check out these top hotels conveniently located to Merida’s sights and near the historic district.

$$$ The Diplomat Boutique Hotel | Merida Chic Upscale Gem

The Diplomat is a chic boutique hotel just a quick 15-minute walk from the Plaza Grande. With a gorgeous outdoor pool, secluded setting, and fantastic service, this is a top pick in Merida. Did I mention their amazing breakfast? The Diplomat has also been rated a “Traveler’s Choice Best of the Best” hotel by TripAdvisor for 2022.

See more photos & rates for The Diplomat

$$$ Rosas & Xocolate Boutique Hotel + Spa | Stylish Merida Hotel with Great Service

Rosas & Xocolate is a sophisticated boutique hotel located in two historic French-style mansions on the Paseo de Montejo. Guests love Rosas & Xocolate for its artistic design, beautiful outdoor pool, rooftop bar, and delicious breakfast. They also rave about its helpful staff.

See more photos & rates for Rosas & Chocolate

$$ Hotel Hacienda Mérida | Historic Hotel in the Merida City Center

Hotel Hacienda Mérida is a historic building which dates to 1840. Its rooms are set around a characteristic central courtyard, filled with tropical plants. Hotel Hacienda Merida is one of the top-rated hotels in the historic district, and features a charming design, comfy beds, and sparkling pool.

See more photos & rates for Hotel Hacienda Mérida

$$ Villa Orquídea Boutique Hotel | Stylish Merida Hotel Top Pick With Pool

Villa Orquídea is a centrally-located boutique hotel that gets rave reviews for its charming design, comfortable rooms, delicious brekkie, and gorgeous outdoor pool. This is a great pick for solo travelers because of its safe, friendly vibe and attentive staff.

See more photos & rates for Villa Orquídea Boutique Hotel

$ Hotelito YUM KAAX | Hotel with Bright Budget Suites & Kitchenettes

Hotelito YUM KAAX is a friendly, budget hotel close to the bus station and a short walk away from the Plaza Grande. With large bright suites, a kitchenette, pool, and exceptional reviews, this is a budget best-bet in Merida.

See more photos & rates for Hotelito YUM KAAX

$ Hotel La Piazzetta | Fun, Artistic Stay in Central Location

Hotel La Piazzetta might be the friendliest hotel in Merida! They have tons of “perfect 10” reviews for their personalized service, great location, comfortable rooms, and fun design. If you want an artistic setting and lots of tips and assistance for things to do, this is a great pick for you in Merida.

See more photos & rates for Hotel La Piazzetta

Looking for hostels in Merida? Be sure to check out Nomadas Hostel and Guaya Hostel !

Airbnb & VRBO Merida Historic Colonial Homes

Traveling with a group, or want the experience or staying in a historic colonial Merida home? I’ve got handpicked favorites for your stay, all with private pools.

Casa 411 | Merida Vacation Rental for 10 Guests

Beautifully restored colonial home in Merida Centro that sleeps up to 10 guests in 4 bedrooms. With a pool, living space, and full kitchen.

Casa Escalera al Cielo | Merida Home for 6 Guests

Stunning restored colonial home which sleeps up to 6 in the main house and casita. With a pool, lush garden, full kitchen, and central location.

Casa La Ermita | Colonial Home for 3 Guests

Charming colonial casa centrally located nine blocks from Plaza Grande and steps away from lovely La Ermita Park. With pool, garden, and kitchen.

How to Get to Merida, Mexico

Merida is easily accessible from other major cities in Yucatan and Quintana Roo such as Cancun, Tulum, Playa del Carmen, and Campeche. It’s also easy to reach from Mexico City with a quick flight, or on a longer route by bus. Get tips below on the best ways to get to Merida.

How to Get to Merida By Plane

Manuel Crescencio Rejón International Airport (MID) is a five miles south of the city center, and has flights from several cities in the US as well as many connecting flights from Cancun. From the airport, the easiest way to get into town is via a taxi or shuttle bus. ADO buses also run into the city from the airport.

• Check flights to Merida on Skyscanner

How to Get to Merida By Car

From Cancun, Merida is about a 4-hour drive, 190 miles or 300km. It’s an easy drive on toll roads from Merida to Cancun. If you’re considering renting a car, be sure to read my guide to renting a car and driving in Mexico .

• Search car rental companies: Merida | Cancun | Tulum | Playa del Carmen

How to Get to Merida By Bus

Merida has two major bus stations. The main station known as “CAME” is located on Calle 70. Served by ADO and OCC, CAME is where you’ll be dropped off if you are coming from distant cities like Mexico City, Campeche, or Veracruz. There’s also the “2nd Class Bus Station”, located on Calle 69, which serves regional routes within Yucatán state.

• Check bus routes on ADO or reserve tickets with the app Busbud .

The Best Time to Visit Merida Mexico

Merida is a tropical destination, and is warm year-round. Winter is a great time to visit: from September to May, expect warm temperatures and low humidity, making for ideal sightseeing conditions. Summer is much more humid, and tropical storms are possible during the rainy season from June through October.

Visit Merida During a Festival

If you’d like to combine your trip to Merida with observing special festivals and holidays (or avoid them and the crowds they bring!), these are the major festivals and annual events in the capital of Yucatán state:

• Merida Fest: this festival occurs in January each year, and celebrates the founding of the city. Expect visual arts, theater, music and dance artists. In 2022, Merida will celebrate its 500th anniversary, so expect an extra-special Merida Fest celebration!
• Merida Carnaval in late Feb/early March : tracing its origins to the 19th century, this festival occurs jsut before lent and features parades, fireworks, music, and dancing.
• Semana Santa in March/April: the week leading up to Easter, known in English as Holy Week, is called “Semana Santa” in Latin American countries and is celebrated with processions, masses and other festivities.
• Mexico’s Independence Day September 16: usually celebrated the night before on the Plaza Grande, with music and fireworks,
• Hanal Pixán October 31, November 1 and 2: meaning “food for the souls” in the Mayan language, Hanal Pixán is how Dia de los Muertos is celebrated in the Yucatan Peninsula. A different ritual is observed each day. Departed children are remembered on Oct. 31, the known as the Day of the Little Angels, or Día de los Angelitos . Adults are remembered on Nov. 1, All Saints Day. November 2 is the day to commemmorate all departed with a mass on on All Souls Day, or Día de los Fieles Difuntos. (In Mayan, the days are called U Hanal Palal , U Hanal Nucuch Uinicoob , and U Hanal Pixanoob , respectively.)
• Christmas in Merida : throughout December, there are special events to celebrate Christmas beginning with Día de la Virgen de Guadalupe on December 12 until Día de los Reyes Magos on January 6.

“Expat” Life in Merida

The city of Merida has a large popoulation of Canadian and American “expats” who have chosen to relocate or retire to Merida either full-time or during the winter months. They are drawn here due to its relatively low cost of living, safe reputation, warm temperatures, and cultural offerings paired with modern services and amenities.

Packing Tips for Merida, Yucatan

Get tips on what to pack for Merida with my ultimate Mexico packing list!

Packng List forMexico From Cabo to Cancun + Outfits Inspo!

Grab these packing tips for museum hopping in Mexico City, relaxing on beaches, or climbing ruins and swimming in cenotes. From Cabo to Cancun and everywhere in between, this ultimate packing list for Mexico will have you covered!

Ready to book your trip to Mérida, Mexico?

Save this Merida, Mexico blog for later, so you have it for all of your trip planning and during your travels!

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I was a travel hot mess, but I got better! I kept the name and now blog my best tips for culture + adventure travel from around the globe. Follow along for travel advice, destination guides, and photography from faraway lands and at home in Washington, DC.

Travel Writer | Photographer | Licensed Drone Pilot Member, Society of American Travel Writers (SATW)

Merida Yucatan Mexico: Ultimate Locals’ Travel Guide [2024]

Making your Merida, Mexico travel plan?

How exciting! If you’ve never visited Merida (or even Mexico), the thought of Merida travel planning might be overwhelming — but by the end of this article, you will be a Merida Yucatan Mexico travel expert.

How do I know? I live in Merida , and in fact, I have a whole other website dedicated to Merida — TravelToMerida.com — with even more information about visiting Merida, Mexico.

I have been in Merida since 2019, and know the city quite well — but by the end of this article, so will you.

You’re about to learn everything from how to get to Merida, where to stay in Merida, the best hotels in Merida , best restaurants in Merida, best Merida day trips , best Merida beaches , and more!

There’s so many things to do in Merida , and it’s easy to see why everyone wants to travel to Merida. This colorful colonial city, known as the Mayan Culture Capital of the Yucatan, has something for everyone.

Ready to dive in and become a Merida travel expert? Let’s get started.

Merida Travel During Covid-19

Is merida open for travel right now.

Yes — Merida is open for travel right now. In truth, Merida (and Mexico) never really closed to travelers.

For a deep dive into this topic, head to Is Merida Open for Travel Right Now? [Updated Monthly] .

However, were measures in place since March 2020, like mandatory masks indoors and outdoors, temperature checks, mandatory hand sanitizer use, capacity restrictions — though most restrictions are now lifted.

Does Mexico make you quarantine when you travel?

No — There’s no quarantine period upon arrival, and you do not have to show proof of vaccination to travel to Mexico. With so few restrictions, Mexico one of the easiest countries to visit, and the best countries for travel right now.

Merida Yucatan Mexico Travel Guide

Mexico’s traffic light system.

Mexico disperses travel health notice information via a stop light system — with a color “grade” given to each state.

Each state’s color is updated every two weeks depending on the number of Covid cases, so check the government’s website for the most current info on the state you’re visiting.

🤔 What state is Merida in? Merida is in Yucatan state ; it is the capital city and largest city in the state.

For those visiting neighboring Quintana Roo state , home to Tulum , Cancun and Playa del Carmen , know that Yucatan state is a bit more strict. Keep reading to discover everything you need to know about traveling to Merida during Covid.

What’s open in Merida right now?

As of December 2021, pretty much everything is open in Merida — though rules and regulations change often.

For now, restaurants, Mayan ruins near Merida , art museums, Merida beaches , local markets and shops, cenotes near Mérida , etc., are all open! Beyond that, even outdoor festivals have begun to return to Merida.

Don’t miss Merida en Domingo (Merida On Sunday) in Plaza Grande, the Merida BiciRuta bike ride along Paseo Montejo, and the Friday night video mapping display at the Merida Cathedral (seen in this video ).

Do I need to wear a mask in Merida?

Yes — In Merida, Yucatán state and all of Mexico, masks are legally required in all businesses. You are allowed to remove them only when eating and drinking. As of May 12, 2022, you no longer have to wear masks while walking outdoors.

Will there be temperature checks in Merida?

Yes — When entering businesses, including cenotes , Mayan ruins sites, stores, bars, restaurants, etc., an employee will take your temperature. If you have an elevated temperature above 99.5°F (37.5°C), you’ll likely be denied entry.

🤒 Note: Your temperature will not be taken at Merida International Airport .

Where can I get a Rapid Covid Test in Merida?

As of June 12, 20212, you are no longer required to have a negative Covid test to return to the U.S., according to the CDC .

For those travelers who do need to get a Merida rapid Covid test, head to one of the places listed below ⤵

• Merida International Airport : Authorities recommend using this only as a last resort.
• Salud Digna : A low-cost chain of medical centers that has the cheapest Covid tests in Merida.
• Farmacias del Ahorro : A chain of medical centers with locations throughout Merida.
• Biomedicos de Merida : A chain of medical centers with locations throughout Merida.

Is it safe to travel to Mexico right now?

Yes — On November 8, 2021, the U.S. reopened all borders with Mexico.

While it was always legal to fly to Mexico, land borders were shut down for 20 months — however, all borders are now open for business and pleasure travel to Merida and all Mexico.

Additionally, the World Travel & Tourism Council’s global travel safety program,  Safe Travels , has certified Mexico travel destinations like Merida, Tulum , Playa del Carmen and  Puerto Vallarta , safe for travel.

To qualify for the program, countries must follow rigorous cleaning and hygiene protocols.

You can also check the  U.S. State Department  and CDC websites for the most up-to-date information regarding travel to Mexico during Covid-19.

Is Merida, Mexico Safe?

Short answer: Yes — for the majority of visitors, Merida is safe for travel. For a ddeep dive into this topic, head to Is Merida Mexico Safe for Travelers? 20+ Tips from a Local .

Longer answer: This question is tricky, as no place is 100% safe. I do my best to address the Mexico safety question in this article,  Is Mexico Safe to Travel to Right Now .

Merida has been ranked as not only the safest city in Mexico, but one of the safest in all of the Americas by CEOWorld magazine. In 2019, Conde Nast Traveler magazine named it the best small city in the world.

As a quick answer to the question, Is Merida safe? — Yes, Merida Mexico is safe for the vast majority of travelers.

Is Merida safe at night?

For the most part, yes; however there simply isn’t a definitive answer when it comes to safety.

Make your own safety a priority by following the 10 General Travel Safety Tips below, which should suffice for Merida, Mexico safety, and check out the Mexico podcast episode about travel safety.

Is there Uber in Merida?

Yes — There is Uber in Merida, and taking it at night versus walking home alone is a smart idea; in Merida and everywhere.

Also, Uber in Mexico is much cheaper than in the U.S. Prices will of course vary, but figure about $100-150 pesos ($5-8 USD) for a 30-minute ride.

• Safety Wing : Perfect for general travel coverage, and digital nomad who travel for extended periods of time.
• World Nomads : Perfect for those who want to do adventurous activities while traveling.
• Don’t walk home alone at night if you can help it; take an Uber.
• Always listen to your intuition because your intuition is always right.
• If you get a sketchy or uneasy feeling about a person or place, get away from that person or place immediately. If you feel you’re in danger, don’t worry about making a kind, nice, or politically correct exit from a creepy person or bad situation — Just get away ASAP.
• Don’t keep your phone, keys, wallet, passport, or anything valuable in your back pocket.
• Learn some basic Spanish. If you can’t learn it, save this infographic as an image on your phone so you have something to use even if you’re off-WiFi.
• Take all of your belongings into the bathroom with you, rather than asking a cafe/bar neighbor to watch your things.
• Speaking of bar neighbors, don’t ever accept drinks from strangers and/or leave your drink unattended near someone you don’t know.
• Don’t wear flashy clothes, expensive jewelry, designer sunglasses, etc.
• Keep some cash in your pocket so you don’t have to pull your whole wallet out every time you need to make a small transaction like for street tacos 🌮

Make sure you enroll in the FREE   STEP Program  before your trip. The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, or STEP, allows U.S. citizens traveling to Mexico to document your trip with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.

After you’ve registered, the U.S. Consulate in Merida can contact you in the event of an emergency, including natural disasters, civil unrest, etc. STEP can also put you in touch with your family and friends back home, in the event of an emergency while abroad.

How Do I Travel to Merida?

Where is merida, mexico.

Merida is the capital of Yucatan state, one of three states that make up the Yucatan Peninsula , located in southeastern Mexico. The other two states are Quintana Roo and Campeche.

For a visual, head to Merida Mexico Map: Where is Merida Located?

▶︎ Cancun to Merida: 6 Best Transportation Options

Merida is about 160 miles west of Tulum , 190 miles west of Cancun , and 180 miles west of Playa del Carmen and Riviera Maya.

It’s also near other top Yucatán Peninsula destinations — like Bacalar Lagoon , the “Maldives of Mexico,” Valladolid , and Izamal , all Mexico pueblos mágicos.

Merida Mexico Map

Check out Cancun to Merida: 6 Best Transportation Options for a look at all your best Merida travel options!

If you aren’t flying to Merida International Airport, you can fly into Cancun International Airport (code: CUN) and take the bus or drive your rental car over to Merida. There are also some small carriers that offer Cancun to Merida flights, like Magnicharters and MAYAir.

• Cancun to Merida Bus: You can easily take an ADO bus from the Cancun Airport, on what is about a five-hour drive. ADO is Mexico’s largest bus company and has a fleet of luxury class busses. You can buy your tickets online, or in person. Prices vary, but figure about $400 pesos ($20USD) for a one-way ticket.

• Cancun to Merida Drive: This Merida to Cancun drive takes about 3.5 hours by car and is known as a very safe drive. In general, the Yucatan Peninsula is known as one of the safest parts of Mexico , roads included.

Traveling to Merida from Tulum, Mexico ?

This trip will take about three hours by car, and closer to four by bus. From Tulum, you can easily take an ADO bus from the main bus terminal in Downtown Tulum, or rent a car and drive.

What’s the closest Merida, Mexico airport?

Wondering about Merida, Mexico flights? There’s actually a Merida airport just outside of downtown — Merida International Airport (code: MID).

There are currently direct flights to Merida, Mexico from only a handful of United States airports, like Miami and Houston International Airports; with hopefully more to come.

If you can’t get a flight from the U.S., there are daily connecting flights via the Mexico City Airport or Guadalajara Airport.

From the Merida Airport, take your rental car , Uber, taxi, or private transport service to your accommodation.

The airport is only about 25-35 minutes from downtown Merida, 35-45 minutes from North Merida, and 1.5 hours from Progreso , the closest beach to Merida.

Best Merida Airport transfers

Merida, mexico car rental.

For travelers mostly staying in the city limits, you might want to skip the rental, but if you’re planning to take some Merida day trips , you’ll want a car.

For a rental car in Merida, I recommend and use Discover Cars — 🚙💨 Book with them here .

▶︎ Merida Car Rental: Everything You Need to Know + 10 Driving Tips

If you want to rent a car in Merida, the airport is the best place because it has the most options. As Merida isn’t a big city, car rental options can be limited and you’ll want to book early.

For a complete guide to Mexico car rentals, head to Renting A Car in Mexico: Everything You Need to Know .

Getting around in Merida

Merida is on the smaller side, especially if you’re just sticking to the main areas of Centro Historico and Paseo Montejo.

It is also very walkable, so as mentioned, if you’re just staying in the city itself, skip the rental car and just use Uber and taxis when needed.

▶︎ 2 Days In Merida: The Best 48 Hour Mexico Itinerary

Merida public transport

Mexico in general has a great public bus system that goes from city to city, and state to state. The biggest bus company is ADO , and you can take an ADO bus from Merida to pretty much anywhere else in the Yucatan, and the whole country.

Within the city itself, the public transportation in Merida is, well, lackluster.

It does exist, but the buses and colectivos (small, shared vans) aren’t well maintained, and they don’t use any kind of online schedule or app. For these reasons, walking, Uber and taxis work best in town.

Yes — There is Uber in Merida, and in general, Uber in Mexico is much cheaper than in the U.S.

Prices will of course vary, but figure about $100 pesos ($5USD) for a 30-minute ride. Besides Uber, there is DiDi and InDriver, but there’s no Lyft in Merida.

What’s the best time to visit Merida?

The best time of year to visit Merida, Mexico is from late-October to March , when the weather’s cooler and not so humid.

May is known as the hottest, most humid month; but really May to September can be rough, even for locals.

▶︎ Merida Mexico Weather: What’s the Best Time to Visit Merida?

Located in the tropics, it rains pretty much daily during the peak of the wet season, June-September, which is also Hurricane Season.

Though actual hurricanes are rare since Merida is about 25 miles inland, you can expect heavy rains during the season, which technically runs June 1-November 1.

Like much of Mexico, December is the busiest month for tourism in Merida.

However, December is also a fun time to visit with city-wide festivals, Mexican Christmas Posadas , and cultural events like Noche Blanca to enjoy, in addition to nice weather.

Weather in MERIDA, MEXICO

What do I pack for Merida?

Merida Mexico, and the Yucatan Peninsula, have a tropical climate.

As you can see by the average yearly Merida weather chart above, this part of Mexico is hot (and humid 😥) for most of the year, so definitely pack this Water-To-Go Filterable Bottle .

▶︎ Packing List for Mexico: Outfit Ideas & FREE Printable Download

As far as Merida Mexico outfits , think flowy, tropical, breathable, cotton, and light-colored clothing; bonus points for anything that doesn’t show sweat!

Besides all your summer-wear, you may use a light cardigan at night, but Merida is the place for sundresses, sun hats and sunglasses.

Where Do I Stay in Merida, Mexico?

As the saying goes:  Location, location, location! Your lodging’s location can often make — or break — a trip.

For first time visitors wondering where to stay in Merida, you can’t go wrong with Centro ( Downtown Merida ), or as close as you can get to Paseo de Montejo, the best neighborhoods in Merida, Mexico.

▶︎ 12 Stunning Airbnb Merida Mexico Options [Picked by a Local]

Best Airbnbs in Merida

Head to this article to discover the best Airbnbs in Merida , all located in the best neighborhoods in the city.

The list is further divided into three categories: Airbnbs for Groups with 3+ bedrooms, Mid-Budget Options at (approx.) $85-125USD, and Budget Options at (approx.) $35-75USD.

Best Hotels in Merida, Mexico

Prefer a Merida hotel, resort or hostel to an Airbnb? For a complete list of the best Merida hotels, head to this article, 10 Best Hotels in Merida Mexico [Picked by a Local] .

Below is a shorter list of the best Merida, Mexico hotels. They are all located in the best Merida neighborhoods of Zona Paseo Montejo, Parque Santa Ana and Barrio de Santiago, so you can’t go wrong with any of them.

• Best hotel in Merida: The Diplomat Boutique Hotel Merida
• Best hacienda hotel in Merida: Hotel Hacienda Merida VIP
• Best splurge hotel in Merida: Rosas y Xocolate Boutique Hotel & Spa
• Best boutique hotel in Merida: Hotel Casa Azul
• Best budget hotel in Merida: NH Collection Merida Paseo Montejo

Best Things to Do in Merida

Merida, mexico beaches.

As it’s located about 25 miles inland, there are no actual beaches in Merida, Mexico.

The closest beach to Merida is Puerto Progreso , located about 30 minutes away in your rental car . Many locals and visitors head from Merida to Progreso on the weekends, and the town is known to be a place to party.

▶︎ 15 Best Merida Mexico Beaches in the Yucatan Peninsula

For those looking for a quieter beach, there are also plenty of those, like Sisal, which was recently named a Yucatan pueblo magico (magic town), Telchac Puerto, San Crisanto and more.

There’s also Celestun , a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and beach town with thousands of flamingos. This is a great place to go with the family, and one of the best Merida things to do with kids .

Mayan Ruins near Merida, Mexico

The Yucatan Peninsula is home to about 100 public Mayan Ruins in Mexico . While most don’t make it to all of them, there are some noteworthy Merida sites you can get to in two hours or less by rental car , tour or bus.

🗿 For a complete list, check out 15 Amazing Mayan Ruins Near Merida Mexico .

Chichen Itza

As one of the Seven Wonders of the World, many consider visiting Chichen Itza as a Mexico bucket list item.

Located about 1.5 hours from Merida, Chichen Itza makes a great day trip from Merida, and there are also plenty of Merida to Chichen Itza tours available.

Best Merida to Chichen Itza Tour : Mayan Food Experience with NETFLIX Chef & Chichén Itza Tour

As such an important historical site, consider a guided tour, like the Mayan Food Experience & Tour of Chichén Itza ⤴, to really understand the significance of Chichen Itza. The meal on this tour is cooked by Chef Rosalía Chay Chuc from the Netflix show, Chef’s Table: BBQ .

Uxmal Ruins

Though overshadowed in name by Chichen Itza in name recognition, Uxmal, also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is just as impressive. It is also much less crowded and touristy, seeing only about 10% the amount of annual visitors as Chichen Itza.

Dzibilchaltun Ruins

Dzibilchaltun (pronounced  zee-bee-shal-tune ) is the closest Mayan ruin site to Merida. Though small, there’s also an onsite museum with Mayan artifacts and a cenote to swim in, Cenote Xlacah .

💦 For a complete list of Merida cenotes, check out 30 Best Merida Cenotes You Must Visit .

Best Merida Tours to Mayan Ruins

The easiest way to see all of the Merida Mayan pyramids and archeological sites? On a group tour, of course. In fact, group tours provide an easy way for solo travelers to meet other travelers .

Check out your options below for the best Merida tours to see the pyramids and Mayan ruins near Merida.

Best Cenotes near Merida, Mexico

What is a cenote.

Cenotes are underwater sinkholes with freshwater. They are only found in a few places on Earth, with the largest concentration in the  Yucatan Peninsula , where there are about 6,000 cenotes.

As they are often quite remote, the best way to visit the Merida cenotes is in your rental car or on a tour.

▶︎ 30 Best Merida Cenotes You Must Visit + FREE Map to Find Them

Cenotes Santa Barbara

The Santa Barbara cenotes are located in the pueblo (small town) of Homun. This is a group of three cenotes — Cenote Chaksikin, Cenote Cascabel and Cenote Xoch. The first two are in caves and the last one is a semi-open cenote.

Cenote Ik-Kil

As one of the most Instagram worthy cenotes in Mexico, combined with its proximity to Chichen Itza, puts Cenote Ik Kil on everyone’s radar.

Ik kil Cenote is one of the best cenotes in Yucatan because it has everything you’d need, including restrooms and an onsite restaurant.

Cenote Zaci

This cenote is located only a few blocks from Downtown Valladolid. This colorful pueblo magico (magic town) is a fun day trip from Merida, but the Valladolid cenotes are some of the best in the Yucatan.

Best Merida Cenotes Tours

Free merida walking tours.

Looking for free things to do in Merida?

You’re in luck because the FREE Merida Walking Tour is a great way to get to know this historic, colonial city. The  Merida Tourism Office hosts these tours, which last one-hour and take place everyday but Sunday.

▶︎ One Day In Merida Mexico: The Ultimate 24 Hour Itinerary

Guides are all bi- or multi-lingual, and do speak English. Tours start at 9:30am, but try to show up by 9:15am. Meet your guide on the first floor of the Palacio Municipal, the pretty pink building on the west side of Plaza Grande.

💡 Merida Travel Tip: It is customary to tip as payment for these types of city walking tours. Please consider tipping your guide at least $100-200 pesos ($5-10USD) per person, but more is always welcome as a thank you to the guide.

Take A Merida day trip

Merida is centrally located in the Yucatan, making it the perfect home-base for road tripping to all the surrounding places for day trips.

Jump in your rental car and head to the 25 Most Popular Day Trips from Merida Mexico, including these:

• Chichen Itza : One of the Seven Wonders of the World
• Uxmal : A UNESCO World Heritage Site with Mayan ruins
• Las Coloradas : Mexico’s famous pink lakes
• Cenote Hacienda Mucuyche : a beautiful hacienda with two cenotes
• Celestun Biosphere Reserve : home to the Yucatan’s wild flamingos
• Izamal : The “Yellow City,” and a pueblo magico (Mexico magic town)

Visit the sites in Merida

One of the most beautiful places in Mexico, and one of the country’s best colonial cities, there’s no shortage of things to see in Merida.

From historic monuments to colonial buildings, colorful streets to charming cafes, you’ll never run out of fun things to do in Merida , like these top Merida sites:

• Plaza Grande : The main plaza, or Town Square, where you’ll find the Merida Cathedral
• Paseo de Montejo : Merida’s most famous, tree-lined street
• Monumento a la Patria : The most beautiful monument in Merida, located on Paseo de Montejo
• Mundo Maya Mayan World Museum : Merida’s largest collection of Mayan artifacts, and one of the best museums in Merida
• Museo Palacio Canton : A beautiful European-inspired mansion on Paseo Montejo
• Parque Santa Lucia: This park hosts cultural events and dance performances, and has nice outdoor dining at some of the best restaurants in Merida
• Palacio de Gobierno: The Merida and Yucatan government offices, where you can see the gorgeous murals painted by local artist, Fernando Castro Pacheco

Best restaurants in Merida

Though Mexico and tacos go together like milk and cookies, tacos aren’t a traditional Yucatecan food .

Don’t worry though, you can get tacos in Merida everywhere, but do also make sure to try the local delicacies, like panuchos (tortillas stuffed with beans) and salbutes (puffy, fried tortillas).

▶︎ 31 Best Restaurants in Merida Mexico: A Locals’ Guide

Not many people know how different Yucatan food is from the rest of Mexico.

When in Merida, seek out these Yucatan cuisine favorites: cochinita pibil (slow cooked suckling pig), papadzules (egg enchiladas in pepita salsa), sopa de lima (lime soup) and marquesitas (crepes).

Merida has everything from upscale dining, to street food, so make sure to sample a bit of both on your trip. Below is a list with five of the best Merida restaurants for traditional Mexican food in Yucatan.

• Ku’uk : This foodie favorite features elevated, chef-driven Yucatan food, in a hip setting. ($$$$)
• La Chaya Maya : One of the go-to restaurants for solid Yucatan food, where every Merida visitor ends up dining at least once. ($$$)
• Museo de la Gastronomia Yucateca : The second go-to restaurant for solid Yucatan food, but as this is a museum/restaurant, they do a really interesting 10 minute tour before your meal in their outdoor garden, explaining Yucatecan food. ($$$)
• Manjar Blanco : As seen on the Netflix show, Taco Chronicles in Season 2, Episode 2 “Cochinita Pibil,” this is a small restaurant and all the cooking is done by local abuelas , or grandmas. ($$)
• Taqueria La Lupita : As seen on the Netflix show, Salt Fat Acid Heat in Episode 3, “Acid,” this no-frills taqueria is located in Mercado Santiago. ($)

Mexico Travel FAQ

Do i need mexico travel insurance.

Legally, no, you don’t need to have travel insurance for Mexico .

However, most travelers will want the added level of security and peace of mind — especially in these strange travel times. Also, if there’s one certainty in travel, it’s that something will go wrong!

If Mexico travel safety is the thing holding you back from your Merida trip, get a FREE quote from the two companies listed below — two of the biggest names in travel insurance.

These travel insurance companies do have Covid coverage, but always double check your policy before purchasing.

Do I need to know Spanish for Mexico?

Merida is 50/50 — but most people who work in the service industry will speak English.

However, many local people don’t, especially if you’re heading outside of the city to the surrounding places on Merida day trips.

Either way, you should brush up on your basic Spanish before visiting Merida Mx (or any other country). This is seen as a sign of respect and courtesy that you’ve familiarized yourself with everyday niceties like please and thank you . 

For your convenience, this infographic has all the basic Spanish words and phrases you’ll need. Go ahead and save it to your phone as an image, so you can access it even off-WiFi.

You can also download the free Duolingo app and practice before your Merida vacation.

Do I need a visa for Mexico?

No — Passport holders from the United States, Canada and the majority of Europe don’t need a visa to travel to Mexico. In fact, visitors from most countries don’t need a Mexico travel visa, but you can check here to see if you need one.

FMM Tourist Visa in Mexico

When you arrive in Mexico and go through the Immigration line, you’ll receive a 180-day (6 month) FMM tourist card .

This is a small piece of paper that you need to have on you at all times, and also give back to Immigration at the airport when you leave the country.

There is no charge for the FMM, but if you lose it, there’s a $600 peso ($30USD) fine to replace it. Besides the fine, you’ll need to get to the airport an extra hour early to do the lost visa paperwork and pay the $30.

Bottom line: Don’t lose your FMM!

Final Thoughts: Merida Yucatan Mexico Travel

Is merida worth visiting.

As someone who lives in Merida, I’m admittedly biased. However, I will say that this is a very special city on a number of levels — it’s safe, beautiful, historic, walkable, and of course, the food 🤤

For more of my locals’ tips on Merida, check out my other site, Travel to Merida .

I have visited half the states in Mexico, and most of the places people have heard of and want to visit, and I chose Merida to make my home base.

With its proximity to so many other places in the Yucatan Peninsula , it makes for a great spot to vacation, or even buy real estate and live!

As it remains somewhat off the beaten path in Mexico, for now , you can still have an affordable Merida trip — though that won’t last forever!

Mexico Travel Planning Guide

Should i buy mexico travel insurance.

YES — With basic coverage averaging just $5-10 USD per day, enjoy peace of mind with a plan from Travel Insurance Master , one of the biggest names in travel insurance. ( Read more )

Can you drink the water in Mexico?

No — You’ll want to buy this Water-To-Go Bottle , which filters your drinking water so you don’t get sick from drinking water in Mexico.

Also, it helps keep you hydrated while traveling Mexico. ( Read more )

Is it safe to rent a car in Mexico?

Yes — Renting a car in Mexico is one of the best ways to see the country! I always rent with Discover Cars , which checks international companies and local Mexican companies, so you get the best rates. ( Read more )

Will my phone work in Mexico?

Maybe — It depends on your company, so check with your provider. If you don’t have free Mexico service, buy a Telcel SIM Card . As Mexico’s largest carrier, Telcel has the best coverage of any Mexico SIM Cards. ( Read more )

What’s the best way to book my Mexico accommodations?

For Mexico hotels, Booking.com is the best site , but for hostels, use Hostel World . If you’re considering a Mexico Airbnb, don’t forget to check VRBO , which is often cheaper than Airbnb.

What do I pack for Mexico?

Head to the Ultimate Mexico Packing List + FREE Checklist Download to get all the info you need on packing for Mexico.

What’s the best site to buy Mexico flights?

For finding cheap Mexico flights, I recommend using Skyscanner .

Likely Not — U.S., Canadian and European Passport holders don’t need a visa for Mexico; but check here to see if you need a Mexico travel visa. Most travelers will get a 180-Day FMM Tourist Visa passport stamp a upon arrival.

22 Tips For Backpacking Yucatan Peninsula in 2024

Throughout all my Yucatan travel blogs I have constantly been preaching that traveling the Yucatan Peninsula does not have to be expensive. It just comes down to how much budget you have! Prices in Yucatan and traveling around the peninsula are probably only a fraction of what things cost in your hometown, but please refrain yourself from saying the Yucatan is cheap.

The more you explain the locals how cheap it is to travel to Yucatan Peninsula the more expensive it becomes. Keep in mind that for locals the tourist prices in the Yucatan are expensive!

On top of all my Yucatan backpacking tips I will also show you how much it cost to travel to Yucatan Peninsula on a budget of around $50 per day. In total I traveled around Yucatan Peninsula for more than 2 months and saw all the amazing places to visit in Yucatan . Some are more expensive than others, but the more local you go, the cheaper it gets of course.

The most expensive places in the Yucatan are of course Cancun, Playa del Carmen and Tulum, the further away you get from these places, the cheaper it gets. Some exceptions are the island of Isla Holbox and Isla Mujeres were prices are a little higher than on the main land. Yet backpacking or traveling on a budget to these places is still very much possible.

Watching the marvellous sunsets in Isla Holbox are free, a beer cost around $2, the experience will be with you forever!

1. My costs traveling the Yucatan Peninsula

In total I traveled around the Yucatan for 9 weeks and wrote more than 25 Yucatan travel blogs. In my Isla Holbox travel guide I already explained in detail how much I spent visiting Isla Holbox. But I have more for you in this Yucatan travel blog as the first couple weeks of my trip I kept track of all my expenses.

In the picture above you can see an overview of all my costs traveling to Yucatan on a budget ($50 per day). The expenses are categorized in: transportation, accommodation, food & drinks, tours and extras.

The costs above are the result of a Yucatan Peninsula road trip of 19 days, including a visit to Cozumel. I did all of this with a friend of mine so all the costs for accommodation, food & drinks and the extras are mostly for 2 persons. We rented a car and drove around for almost 2 weeks and also spent some time in Playa del Carmen and Cozumel. 

You could do this trip by yourself and therefore I decided to show the costs for solo travelers as well as if you would travel with two people. Bus tickets, boat tickets, tours and sim cards are the only costs that are per person.

How much does it cost to travel to Yucatan Peninsula?

My total costs for traveling the Yucatan Peninsula for 20 days with 2 people was $1,650 USD. That comes down to $41.25 per person per day! Included in this calculation are food, accommodation, car rental, other transportation, tours, extras and even drinks!

Accommodation

This is where most of the money goes to. On my trip to Yucatan Peninsula I mostly used Airbnb and some small boutique hotels. I did not stay in any luxury hotels. I spent 12.000 Pesos in 19 days, that is an average of 630 Pesos ($33) per night. This is of course for two persons!

Food & drinks

Looking at my expenses for food you can see that they are very little. We always ate in local restaurants and even prepared some food ourselves sometimes. The grocery shopping list always contained the same products: milk, muesli, yoghurt, fresh fruits, bread and veggies. This may seem pretty boring, but pretty damn healthy! This to balance the unhealthy local Mexican food: tacos, quesadillas, nachos, sopes, chilaquilles, etc.

Alcohol in Yucatan Peninsula can be super affordable. You can go out to a club and pay $4 for a Corona, but you can also find places where they are just $1. All our drinking money went towards Coronas or Dos XX Lager beers in case there was no Corona. If you drink cocktails expect to pay at least like $3 per cocktail in the cheapest place up to easily $10 in expensive places.

Click here for a list of drinks in Mexico you have to try on your trip to Yucatan.

2. Yucatan itinerary

The question which places to see in Yucatan is hard to answer as there are many cool things to do in Yucatan Peninsula. Creating an itinerary for Yucatan depends on how much time you have and what your travel priorities are. At least I can help you with the ultimate itinerary.

Click on the link above to see my ideal route of traveling to Yucatan. I simply connected all the tourist destinations in Yucatan with each other. In that big Yucatan travel blog I also give tips about road trips, how long to stay where, what to do and more.

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3. Is it safe to visit Yucatan

This is a really easy to answer question for me. YES it is completely safe! Regardless what the media tells you, if you are a well behaved responsible tourist the chance of running into trouble is negligible. Yes Im a fit and tall European which definitely helps, but I have spoken to female solo travelers and they had not felt unsafe or anything like that at all while backpacking Yucatan Peninsula.

If you travel to Yucatan to admire some of the amazing places to see surely nothing will happen. Are you here to party hard and do things you are not allowed to do at home either than there is always that chance you run into trouble.

Getting lost in cities is the best way to explore. Finding murals is one of the great free things to do in Yucatan. This amazing mural I found in Xcalachen in Merida Mexico.

4. Best time to go backpacking Yucatan

May be the Yucatan Hurricane Season from August till October scares you? Let me tell you more hurricanes hit the US mainland then they hit Yucatan Peninsula. Another reason to travel to Yucatan. The rainy season is definitely a time of the year you want to avoid as rain can be severe. The rainy season is from May till September and it also is a busy period and a very hot and humid time of the year. As December till February is high season the best time for backpacking Yucatan Peninsula are the months November, March and April. Mind you that April can already get damn hot. I traveled the Yucatan Peninsula between mid February and end of April and all my Yucatan travel blogs are based on my trips in that period.

On top of the ruins in Uxmal and as you can see there was hardly any other tourists. April in Merida Mexico was hot, but it had its advantages!

5. Tours Yucatan Peninsula

One of the best value tours in Yucatan Peninsula is in Rio Lagartos. Read all my Rio Lagartos tips in the link including the Pink Lake Las Coloradas. The tour was only $17. Another great Yucatan travel tip are to visit the cenotes around Valladolid by yourself. Entrance fee is on average $4 per cenote. Click on the link to see which cenotes are the best and how to get there. A snorkeling trip in Cozumel is rather expensive, but Cozumel is an expensive island in general. So if you are backpacking Yucatan Peninsula on an even tighter budget than $50 per day you might want to skip Cozumel. Renting a scooter in Cozumel was a great thing to do though, so was my Tulum and Coba tour .

6. Where to go backpacking in Yucatan

There are a couple places you might want to avoid when traveling to Yucatan on a budget. The super touristy places are of course also the most expensive. The Cancun Hotel Zone is by far a place in Yucatan that is not made for backpackers, although even there is a hostel. Isla Mujeres is quite expensive and so is Tulum nowadays. The best places to visit in Yucatan Peninsula for backpackers are: Merida Mexico , Valladolid, Bacalar, Isla Holbox , Rio Lagartos and El Cuyo. Apart from El Cuyo I have been everywhere myself and you can find plenty budget friendly local restaurants as well as hostels and other budget accommodation.

Snorkeling can often be done from the shore and renting a snorkel is not expensive. Puerto Morelos , Cozumel , Mahahual , Isla Mujeres are great for snorkeling.

7. Which Maya ruins to visit when traveling Yucatan on a budget

This is a really easy one to answer! Prices for Maya Ruins in Yucatan State have doubled in price over the last years. As of 2024 that means the entrance fee for Chichen Itza, Uxmal and Ek Balam are now all around $35 USD.

When you are backpacking Yucatan stick to the Maya ruins in Quintana Roo State as here the entrance price for Tulum Ruins, Coba Ruins, Chacchoben Ruins, Kohunlich Ruins, Dzibanche and the Kinichna Ruins are all just 90 Pesos ($5). Easy choice right?

Read my blog comparing Coba or Tulum ruins to give you an idea of which Maya ruins I prefer over the other.

That said, Chichen Itza is of course one of the Wonders of the World and I totally recommend visiting on your Yucatan trip. It is very touristy and the crowds are big so go very early or very late. My tip is to stay the night in Valladolid and take a taxi early morning. Check out my complete Valladolid travel guide for 2024 .

Are you adventurous then book a room at Cenote Ik Kil , one of the best cenotes near Valladolid and probably the most beautiful cenote in Mexico anyway. It is also called cenote Chichen Itza as it is literally a stone throw away.

Well... isn't that a great travel tip for Yucatan? Thank me later!

8. Mexico sim card

Buying a Mexico sim card is the best way to safe money on roaming costs and the first thing you should do when backpacking Yucatan. Make sure your phone is unlocked and hop into any of the Telcel shops to buy a Mexico prepaid sim card. Telcel has the best 4G/5G network coverage.

Check out my blog about the best Mexico prepaid sim card for tourists in 2024  before you buy one so you know what to pay and don't get scammed. For a couple dollars you will be connected to the internet which can save you a lot of time and money. It also makes a Yucatan road trip so much more convenient, while you can arrange things on the go.

Are you looking for e-sim cards? I understand, it is the easiest way to stay connected when traveling to Mexico. Check out my comparison of the best e-sim cards for traveling to Mexico in 2024 .

9. Transportation in Yucatan Peninsula

Backpacking in Yucatan Peninsula is super easy as the transportation system is amazing. There are several bus companies, but the best one is by far ADO. They have tourist class busses and even some business class busses (these are double the price of course). It is possible to purchase your bus tickets for ADO busses online through their website and you can even choose your seat. There are also Oriente and Mayab busses, they are less frequent and as far as I know you can’t buy tickets online.

Fair enough traveling in Yucatan is best be done with ADO anyway and there are busses in any direction throughout whole of Mexico. Prices for ADO busses are around $4 per hour on average. So if you are traveling from Cancun to Merida it is a 4 hour trip and expect to pay around 300 Pesos ($15). On this stretch there are like 50 busses every 24 hour in one direction and prices vary, so for the best deals you gotta look on their website. Sometimes you find amazing discounts!

Bus from Cancun to Chiquila

To visit Isla Holbox you will need to take a bus to Chiquila. As I didnt expect the busses to be full I just rocked up at the Cancun bus station and ended up taking an Oriente bus. The bus was overbooked and one guy had to sit in the isle. Also did the Oriente bus make loads of stops picking up locals. To make sure, always book up front through the ADO website, you can pay by credit card or PayPal.

An amazing holiday doesn't have to be expensive! These hammocks are free to use and a beer in a nearby supermarket cost less than $1 for 0.5L! Find this place in my Costa Maya Mahahual travel guide .

10. Taxis in Yucatan Peninsula

There is nothing more annoying than a taxi driver that tries to screw you over after a long flight or bus. Therefore I want you to know what the normal taxi fares are around the Yucatan Peninsula. Anywhere in Cancun downtown should never be more than 40 Pesos. In Playa del Carmen you should never pay more than 35 Pesos. Cozumel and Isla Mujeres are a little trickier as these are islands, but paying more than 50 Pesos is too much. One of the best Merida Mexico tips is that there is Uber, so convenient! Valladolid Mexico has a set fare of 35 Pesos as well. From the Cancun ADO bus station to the Isla Mujeres ferry Terminal is a set fare of 40 Pesos.

11. Renting a car in Yucatan Peninsula

This is may be not the first thing that comes up in your mind when you think about backpacking in Yucatan, but hold on. Normally Im not a big fan of calling things cheap, but damn renting a car in Yucatan can be really cheap! It kind of depends where though as prices vary a lot, but search online and you will find great deals. Online you can sometimes find deals for less than $10 a day, no joke! But…

When renting a car in Yucatan Peninsula make sure the 3th party liability insurance is included otherwise you end up paying like $25 per day extra for this compulsory insurance. I rented a car in Cancun, Merida and Playa del Carmen. 

Renting a car in Playa del Carmen

For my big Yucatan road trip I rented a car for almost two weeks in Playa del Carmen and paid $22 USD per day, including full coverage and I left a deposit of $1,500. In Playa del Carmen I used Carfelx. Drop off was super easy, the guys checked the car quickly and were super friendly.

Renting a car in Cancun

In Cancun I rented a car for 2 days to explore some of the Valladolid cenotes, like Suytun, Xcachen, Ik Kil , etc. Again I paid $20 USD per day including full coverage, but only left a deposit of $100 this time. In Cancun I used Mexrent and they were super nice and the deposit was way less than Carflex in Playa del Carmen. Therefore if you are thinking about renting a car in Yucatan Peninsula on your backpacking trip this is a great company to go to.

Renting a car in Merida

In Merida Mexico is where I found out about the 3th party liability insurance. When I came to pick up the car they made me pay this $25 per day insurance extra. Well where I thought I rented a car for $4 per day online this was a damn unpleasant surprise when I arrived at Budget cars. Instead of renting a car in Merida Mexico for a week I decided to only rent it for 1 day! There are many Merida Mexico day trips around the city and for most of them you will need a car, check them out in the link.

I can totally recommend you to do a Yucatan road trip, as it was of the highlights of my trip and yes it is totally safe. Click on the link to read more about it. Car rentals in Yucatan are only available in Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Tulum, Chetumal and Merida. Places like Bacalar, Valladolid, etc don’t have car rental companies.

Side note: of course I always rented the cheapest car available!

Be aware of scams when you rent a car in Yucatan Peninsula! A common scam happens at gas stations and I kind of got trapped. I noticed straight away so I got away with paying less, but still I feel like I got scammed. Always tell them the amount of Pesos you want to put in your, never say fill it up! When you do they will just tell you a crazy number to pay. They asked me for 700 Pesos for half a tank. Super stupid, cause a full tank was only 600 Pesos. Gasoline costs the same everywhere around Yucatan Peninsula: mas o menos 20 Pesos ($1)

There are more known scams in the Yucatan and most of them involve corrupt police men. I must say though that all the police men that I crossed paths with were super friendly. None of them ever asked a question and all I got were friendly smiles. 

13. Renting scooter and bikes in Yucatan

There are other ways to get around apart from renting a car. It is not as common as in Asia, but you can rent a scooter to travel around Yucatan. One of my best adventures in Yucatan was renting a scooter in Cozumel . Daily rates for scooters are higher than for cars and expect to pay $25 for the day or $5 per hour. Bicycles mostly cost between $5 and $10 per day. Isla Holbox , Tulum, Puerto Morelos and Valladolid are popular places to rent a bicycle.

14. Street food

One of my favorite things about being a world traveler is that I get to taste local food wherever I go. There is no need to explain you that tacos, quesadillas, etc can be everywhere on your Yucatan Peninsula trip. But how much does street food cost in the Yucatan? The easiest benchmark are the tacos and I had many of them. When you  travel to Merida Mexico you will find them for as less as 8 Pesos ($0.40), around Valladolid, Cancun, Playa del Carmen they go around for about 15 Pesos a piece and in Isla Mujeres they were the most expensive and I paid 25 Pesos for one taco.

15. Local restaurants

Mostly I tried to eat in local restaurants where you can order anything local from soups to enchiladas. Honestly said I am not the biggest fan of Mexican food as it is pretty damn unhealthy, but when backpacking Yucatan Peninsula you want cheap food. It is pretty hard to find healthy cheap food to be honest and I mostly ended up in Cuban restaurant where I could find a piece of meat, rice and salad for about 60-80 Pesos ($3-4). In Costa Maya Mahahual though I found the best local restaurant on my Yucatan Peninsula trip and went there 3 days in a row to eat the delicious fajitas for only 60 Pesos ($3).

16. Tipping in Yucatan Peninsula

Keeping in mind that most locals don’t make more than $250 USD per month tipping is very much appreciated and also kind of expected. The tipping culture in Yucatan is like in the USA: 10% is standard, 15-20% if service was excellent.

Im European and honestly I hate the tipping culture so I choose to tip those who I think that really deserves it, not because it is a rule. I always ate in local places anyway and more than happy to tip 20% for someone who makes me 4 tacos for 50 Pesos. I only did very few organized tours, but I for example tipped my private Tulum and Coba tour guide 200 Pesos ($10).

17. Local bars

When looking to go out on your Yucatan trip and don’t want to break the bank then search for local bars in the area. One of my best Merida Mexico travel tips are some no name bars in the historical center. When you walk in there will be about 50 men in the age of 40-60 staring at you, but no worries just out of curiosity. No need to worry about anything, these bars are the most amazing places to learn about the culture as talking to (drunk) locals is gonna be a lot of fun. A bottle of 1L Corona will cost around 50 Pesos ($2,5), a single Corona is just $1.

18. Chapultepec - best bar for backpackers

Don’t worry you don’t need to go super local bars only to find cheap drinks. Open Google Maps and type in: Chapultepec. Im pretty sure this is going to be one of the best backpacking tips for Yucatan you will find in all Yucatan travel guides. At Chapultepec everything costs 21 Pesos ($1,10)! It doesn’t matter what you order: mojitos, beers, burgers, nachos everything is CHEAP! Did I say that? Chapultepec is known for this concept and you will find many locals as well as travelers here. Chapultepec are mostly actually really nice bars as well. One of my favorite places to go out on my Yucatan Peninsula trip. Also great to take a Tinder date and you don’t want to hurt your wallet.

19. Supermarket prices

If you have read more of my Yucatan travel blogs you know that I stayed around for more than 2 months. On average I went out eating about 2 times a day, but I also tried to go to supermarkets to grab some healthy food. After more than 7 years on the road I found many ways to eat cheap but also healthy at the same time. So I mostly can get by with buying ready to eat products like: tomatoes, cucumbers, bread, yoghurt, fresh fruits, avocados, tuna cans, milk, muesli, etc. 

When you travel to Yucatan on a budget you will be happy to know that you can easily do grocery shopping for breakfast, lunch and dinner for under $5. Fresh, fruits, bread and vegetables are super affordable! Two avocados or 5 tomatoes are $0.5 USD only. A bunch of bananas and bread will cost you less than $1 and so on. All ingredients for a pasta for 2 persons for two days is less than $5 for sure. When you have the chance to prepare your own meals while backpacking Yucatan you will save money. If you are traveling to Yucatan on a budget try to book Yucatan hostels or Airbnbs with kitchen so you can cook for yourself.

20. Fancy restaurants

If you feel like splurging or need to go on a fancy Tinder date then there is always a place where you can go bonanza with your money. Every tourist destination in Yucatan Peninsula has this one restaurant where prices are sky rocketed. Some people simply love spending money. Me too actually, but I don’t have that much! LOL

In Cancun, Tulum, Merida and Playa del Carmen you are spoiled for choice, in places like Valladolid, Bacalar or Costa Maya Mahahual a fancy restaurant will be a little harder to find. In the Cancun hotel zone I was invited for dinner at a fancy place and the bill with three people was 5,000 Pesos, more than $250! Amen.

21. Where to stay in Yucatan Peninsula on a budget

Everywhere you go you can find expensive hotels as well as super cheap hostels. So if you don’t want to spend more than $10 per night on accommodation you can. Backpacking Yucatan Peninsula is not really challenging as travel arrangements are pretty well organized and hostels offer a wide range of services: bike rental, tours, local guides and travel tips.

Some recommended hostels in Yucatan Peninsula are:

• Isla Mujeres:
• Valladolid:
• Playa del Carmen:
• Cancun hotel zone:
• Isla Holbox:
• Mahahual Costa Maya:

Boutique hotels

Luxury hotels in Yucatan Peninsula are countless although most of them are all inclusive and probably not what you are looking for. A great alternative if you are traveling Yucatan on a bigger budget are boutique hotels. These ones are recommended:

• Valladolid: Coqui Coqui
• Merida: Kuka y Naranjo

22. Use Airbnb to travel the Yucatan Peninsula

Although you are probably more familiar with reserving a room through major hotel booking websites I also want to encourage you to have a look on Airbnb. On my Yucatan Peninsula trip I also used Airbnb so now and then and found some great apartments for under $30 per night. 

Watching the sunrise is free one of the amazing free things to do in Yucatan. It sounds simple, but when did you get up the last time to watch a sunrise?

After spending so much time traveling in Yucatan Peninsula I wrote more than 100,000 words full of tips to make the most of your trip. Check my almost 30 Yucatan travel blogs in this link. If you have any questions about traveling or backpacking Yucatan Peninsula please leave me a comment below with your question. Im happy to help a fellow traveler out!

In case this backpacking Yucatan travel guide was helpful please share the link of this article with your friends on the internet and you would help me massively in return. May be a small thing for you, but it could make a big difference for me. Every share on Facebook, tweet on Twitter or pin on Pinterest is super helpful for me. Thank you! :)

If you are interested what it looks like traveling to every country in the world then check out my Instagram profile @traveltomtom for some serious wanderlust. As of January 2024 I have visited more than 155 countries around the world.

      View this post on Instagram       A post shared by Adventure Traveler & Blogger (@traveltomtom)

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Y ucatan is one of the destinations that has it all for travelers: a great variety of ecosystems, culture, gastronomy, adventure, and tourist products that, without a doubt, will keep you busy and amazed from beginning to end.

If you visit Yucatan, a spectacular destination, whether for vacation or a short getaway, we recommend incredible experiences in luxury. The destination is flexible for those who don't want to spend a lot and those who wish to pamper themselves and treat themselves, creating an unforgettable experience.

DISCOVERING WHITE MERIDA

The Historic Center of Merida is a mixture of buildings, museums, houses, and activities that coexist in time, keeping alive the essence of the land of the Mayab. During your stay, we recommend taking a free tour from Monday to Saturday from 9:30 a.m., which consists of walking through the most representative places of the Historical Center, among them are The Municipal Palace, Plaza Grande, Casa de Montejo, Ateneo Peninsular, San Ildefonso Cathedral, Government Palace and the Murals of Fernando Castro Pacheco, always accompanied by a certified guide.

Visitors can enjoy the Night of Legends Tour, a fusion of theater and tourism with a historical approach whose objective is to learn about the essential points that created the personality of the city of Mérida interactively. It is a show where the characters are in contact with the public in real scenarios that show the history of Mérida in different places such as the Peón Contreras Theater, the Third Order Church, the Cathedral, the Casa de los Montejo, the tunnels of the Casa de Los Ladrillos, the Convent of the Conceptionist Mothers, among others.

Tickets are on sale starting at 5 p.m. in front of the cathedral. This tour can be enjoyed on Thursdays and Saturdays for $20 for adults and $5 for children.

As eating is a must in this state, visit the Taqueria La Lupita, located inside the Santiago Market, where visitors can enjoy the most emblematic cochinita tacos (pork meat) of the city, or you can make a stop at the Palace of Music and enjoy a delicious meal at the Kexti'i restaurant, in any of these places you will eat satisfactorily for less than $15 per person, and then visit the museum that tells the history of traditional and popular Mexican music for only $20 per person.

ADVENTURE IN THE MAGICAL TOWN OF IZAMAL

Izamal is part of the Magical Towns of Mexico, in addition to being considered a World Heritage Site by UNESCO and noted for the beauty of its yellow houses. The city of the 3 Cultures is located one hour from Merida by car and 1.5 hours by public transportation, leaving from the center of the Yucatan capital at an approximate cost of $5 (round trip).

Once there, it is possible to tour the streets on foot, by bicycle or ATV, for approximately $20 per person. Put on a helmet, get on the ATV, accelerate, and safely take an exciting ride through the beautiful streets of the Magical Town of Izamal.

During the tour, you will be accompanied by an expert local guide, who will take guests through a picturesque and elegant city, a lively and animated town. Visit the majestic Franciscan convent with the most enormous atrium in Latin America and the second largest worldwide. You will also admire Mayan pyramids, colonial buildings, and artisan workshops, making the ancient holy city of Izamal an actual open museum, considered the most important cultural destination in the Mayan World.

On the gastronomic side, we recommend two icons of local cuisine, Zamna Restaurant and Kinich Restaurant. In both, you will be able to taste authentic food from the Mayan world and discover why these places are gastronomic ambassadors of the region. The average bill per person ranges from $20-$55, and, without a doubt, it will be completely worth it.

A LITTLE LUXURY IN UXMAL

Just an hour away from the state capital, it is possible to find an excellent experience for adrenaline and culture lovers. This is a tour around the archaeological site of Uxmal in a Land Rover; in this adventure, you can feel like an old landowner while you involve all your senses, enjoying the water of a cenote and admiring incredible landscapes that culminates with a visit to the remains of the Hacienda Uxmal. The approximate cost of this activity is $65 per person.

Another option in this area is to visit the beer spa of the Hotel Uxmal Resort Maya, where it is possible to undergo a unique practice of its kind. This service includes a relaxing foot massage with barley, a hot bath in a jacuzzi-like barrel, and a neck and head relaxation massage with hot beer while tasting two regional beers. This experience costs around $100 per person, not including food.

Last is Echoes of Uxmal, a night tour through this majestic archaeological site and a play of light and sound. You will be transported to the past of this ancient town and its impressive legends. Admission per person to this event is around $35.

Take your time, and on your next vacation, visit Yucatan, one of the safest destinations in the country, and enjoy these and more of its 365 tourist experiences. Use the travel planner of yucatan.travel and enjoy a unique trip to the lands of the Mayab, where you can find paradisiacal beaches, exotic nature, extraordinary haciendas, ancient culture, and gastronomy of significant levels in a cosmopolitan city considered one of the best cities to visit in 2023.