A getaway to Chichén Itzá, Make the most of your trip to Chichén Itzá! Our one- and two-day
Valladolid in two days
Day 1
- Uayma
- Valladolid
There’s no better way to start a day of exploration than by enjoying a local delicacy! Don’t miss the chance to grab a torta de lechón, cochinita, or asado either on your way out of Mérida or with a quick detour off the highway (for instance, in Xocchel).
After breakfast, head to Uayma. The highlight of your visit here is the Saint Dominic church and former convent, and once you see it, you’ll understand why. Take in the lavish decorations of its interior, wander through the lush gardens, and marvel at the beauty of its unique façade. Before continuing your journey, make a stop at the Najil K’at pottery workshop, where the Espadas family showcases their intricate creations, from tableware to aluxes and other charming sculptures.
Next, we’re off to the Magical Town of Valladolid. Hopefully, you’ve saved your appetite because Valladolid boasts an impressive array of culinary delights to suit all tastes and budgets—from tacos and pibiwajes at the market to the most sophisticated dishes at its upscale restaurants.
Don’t miss the chance to take a free walking tour of the town, where you’ll visit its historic landmarks and learn why Valladolid is considered heroic. You can also enjoy one of its two video mapping shows: one projected on the façade of the Saint Servatius Church (in front of the main square) and the other on the façade of the former Convent of Saint Bernardino of Siena (at the end of Calzada de los Frailes). But don’t stay up too late—tomorrow starts bright and early.
Daya 2
- Xocen
- Chichén Itzá
- Cenotes
Let the biodiversity of our state amaze you with a hiking and birdwatching tour with the guides at Xocen Birding Trail. This adventure begins before sunrise, so by the time it’s breakfast, you’ll have already spotted dozens of the hundreds of bird species that call this place home.
After the tour, head to Chichén Itzá and explore the site. Keep in mind that it’s quite extensive—while the famous Pyramid of Kukulkán (also known as El Castillo) is near the entrance, there’s much more to see and appreciate if you take your time.
Once you’re done, stop by Gran Museo de Chichén Itzá, where you can marvel at countless artifacts recovered from the archaeological zone. It’s a fantastic way to better understand the life and culture of the people who built the monuments you just explored.
Now it’s decision time: Are you feeling hotter or hungrier? Either way, the historic Chichén Resort hotel has you covered. Whether you indulge in a delicious meal at their restaurant (prepared with ingredients from their own organic garden, which you can visit) or opt for a daypass to also enjoy their facilities (including a pool, towels, and more), you’re in for a treat.
If you prefer a more rustic option, head to the village of Kaua for a mouthwatering poc chuc (grilled pork fillet) or huevos encamisados (a regional egg specialty). These dishes are lovingly prepared by traditional cooks known as “tías (aunts).” You can pair this experience with a quick detour to a nearby cenote—Chihuán, Yokdzonot, Ik Kil, and Tsukán are all excellent choices.
If you're heading back to Mérida, how about a sweet treat for the road? Don’t hesitate to stop for some cremitas or coconut bolis sold along the highway. Not a fan of coconut? Make a quick stop at Chabelo’s ice cream shop in Pisté to cool off and sweeten your journey home.
Safe travels!
Valladolid in one day
- Chichén Itzá
- Gran Museo de Chichén Itzá
- Lunch and swimming
- Day pass at Chichén Resort
- Kaua + cenote
Photography by Juan Manuel Mier y Terán, Alicia Navarrete, Najil Kat and Yucatán Today, for its use in Yucatán Today.
First published in Yucatán Today print and digital magazine no. 445, in January 2025.
Related articles
