Travelogue from Mexico: 7 fun things to do in Valladolid

In June 2025, our Guest Relations Specialist, Chrismarie, embarked on an adventurous tour to Mexico. Although she usually gravitates towards nature experiences on her tours, she was pleasantly surprised by Valladolid—a vibrant city brimming with life and unforgettable moments.

On my recent journey to Mexico, the place which surprised me the most was Valladolid.

Having only spent time on the coast during this trip and generally preferring nature destinations, I did not expect a city to blow me away in the way that Valladolid did.

Driving into this colourful city with shops and people everywhere, I could sense that this was a bustling place that yearned to be explored. During my stay, I discovered an abundance of fun activities to enjoy in and around Valladolid.

Here are my 7 top suggestions for fun things to do in and around the city:

1) Explore Chichen Itza

When in this part of Mexico, Chichen Itza, being one of the new 7 wonders of the world, is an absolute must-see!

On our tour, you arrive fairly early in the morning, which gives you plenty of time to explore this archaeological masterpiece. You are accompanied by a guide, which enables you to learn as much as possible while soaking up the awe-inspiring sight of the beautiful temples and all the attractions which form part of this great Mesoamerican city and UNESCO world heritage site.

Find out more about Chichen Itza here.

After the tour, you have the opportunity to take a refreshing swim in the Oxman Cenote.

2) Sound & Light show at the Cathedral Iglesia de San Servacio and the Convento de San Bernardino de Siena

This sound and light show is an animated show, projected onto the buildings of the central Cathedral Iglesia de San Servacio and the Convento de San Bernardino de Siena. It tells two different Mayan stories, providing a beautiful and unique insight into the ancient beliefs of the local culture.

These shows run Tuesday to Sunday, at 9:00pm in Spanish and at 9:30pm in English at both venues simultaneously, and they are free to view on the outside of the buildings, where people gather to watch.

3) Excursion to Ria Lagartos & Ek Balam

A wonderful excursion to book during your stay in Valladolid is the visit to Ria Lagartos and Ek Balam. It offers a great combination of nature and culture.

The Estuary of Ria Lagartos is full of interesting flora and fauna and offers a beautiful way to explore the mangroves and local birdlife from the water – and even spot a crocodile if you’re lucky! After enjoying an optional traditional Mayan bath on the shore (which rejuvenates your skin) and washing off in the refreshing shallow estuary, you get to enjoy a delicious locally-caught lunch served at a restaurant near the water.

Exploring Ek Balam also offers a unique insight into local history and culture. Unlike other ruins, it has a quieter and more immersive atmosphere, as visitors are allowed to climb the steps. It is a wonderful opportunity to see the restoration of these ancient structures up close. The view at the top offers a 360-degree view of the ruins inside this complex as well as the surrounding nature. Because it is less busy than other sites, it also provides a good opportunity to learn a lot from your guide and ask questions.

4) Have a refreshing dip in the nearby Cenote Zaci

Only a 5–10-minute walk from the city centre of Valladolid, you will find cenote Zaci.

Here you can enjoy a refreshing dip to cool off on hot days. Cenotes are particularly prevalent in Mexico – you can read more about them here.

5) Take a stroll through the streets of Valladolid

Valladolid is a very walkable city with a big pedestrian road near the Convento de San Bernardino, which is lit up beautifully at night. Music streams out of restaurants and people chatter as they meet up for dinner at quaint little restaurants or for cocktails on rooftop bars.

The streets along the main plaza, Parque Principal Francisco Cantón Rosado, are lined with souvenir shops that have everything on offer, from some of the “usual souvenirs” you’ll discover on your trip to Mexico, as well as more unique finds. If you enjoy shopping and browsing, the stores in Valladolid will be sure to pique your curiosity.

6) Visit the Mercado Municipal

A few roads away from the city centre, you will find Mercado Municipal, where fresh local produce and even some local spices and sauces are on offer. As this is where locals buy fresh produce, it’s a nice visit early in the morning to soak up the atmosphere of local life. Here you can also grab some real chili sauce to bring the taste of Mexico home with you.

7) Join a free walking tour

Something else on offer in Valladolid is the free walking tour, taking place at 10am, 5pm, and 7pm daily. You can either book online through one of the local operators or meet up on the Cathedral side of the Parque Principal Francisco Cantón Rosado and ask a guide with a red umbrella to join.

These tours operate on a pay-what-you-wish basis, where you tip the guide based on your experience. Each tour lasts approximately 1-3 hours and offers a great way to learn more about the wonderful city of Valladolid.

Chrismarie,

TourCompass – From tourist to traveller