Mexico
Chichen Itza and Valladolid’s colorful streets
Start your day with an early visit to Chichen Itza, beating the crowds at this world-famous archaeological site. Afterward, cool off at Ik Kil, a stunning cenote just a short drive away. Spend the rest of your day wandering Valladolid’s colorful streets and enjoying some delicious local food.
Early morning at Chichen Itza
Visiting Chichen Itza early is the best way to beat the crowds and enjoy the site at your own pace. The pyramids are just as impressive as you'd expect, but without the usual hustle and bustle you really get to appreciate the history in peace. You can easily spend 2 hours strolling around, taking in the massive El Castillo, the Temple of the Warriors, and the other ruins at a relaxed pace. The quiet of the morning makes it easier for those great shots, on top of that you can avoid the heat of the glaring sun!
It's a 5-minute drive to the next spot.
Lunch is only 35 minutes away!
Cool off at Ik Kil
Next, head to one of Mexico’s most popular cenotes: Ik Kil. It’s the type of cenote you’ve seen in pictures: crystal-clear waters, lots of light, hanging vines, and a magical atmosphere. By getting there early, you’ll have the whole place to yourself for a while. At least, that’s what we experienced 😉 Take a dip and let the cool water refresh you before the crowds start rolling in.
Burrito time at Burrito Amor
For lunch, make your way to Burrito Amor, where we’ve had some of the best burritos of our lives. Seriously, we came back three times during our stay in Valladolid! The vegetarian burrito is a must if you’re not feeling meat, but if you are, the rib-eye steak version will hit the spot. We can’t get enough of the three sauces they give you to top your burrito with: chipotle (our favorite!), spicy habanero, and smooth avocado. If you're after something truly local, the vegan burrito with nopal (cactus) is a unique treat you won’t forget soon.
Stroll around the city
After all that delicious food, take a stroll through the city of Valladolid. The city center is full of colorful streets, around every corner you can find colonial architecture, and everywhere you look you can find some local shops. One of our favorite spots? The main square: it's the perfect place to just sit and enjoy the vibe. We absolutely loved the locals dancing here on a Friday night, and the Bazar Municipal (food market) is right across the street.
It's a 10-minute walk to your dinner spot of the day.
Dinner at SANT DRITO COCINA MEXICANA
For dinner, head over to Sant Drito, hands down our favorite restaurant in Valladolid. The tacos here are amazing. If you're into seafood, don’t miss their shrimp tempura (or the garlic shrimp if you prefer something a little bolder). Not into seafood? The chicken tacos are perfect as well. And for a main dish, we highly recommend the shrimp "al ajillo": garlic, white wine, lemon juice, and the best grilled veggies on the side. So good!
