
Visit Yucatán Peninsula, Mexico
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The Yucatán is rich in culture, history and natural scenery.
From the well known archaeological sites of Chichén Itzá and Uxmal to the lesser visited ruins, such as Kabáh and Cobá along the Puuc route, you can take a step back in time and discover the ancient Mayan culture and traditions that were once such an integral part of this fascinating land.
Chichén Itzá
Chichén Itzá is the most famous of the Mayan archaeological sites in the Yucatán, and the best restored, providing a vivid insight into how the city would have looked at its peak. Due to the high numbers of day trippers that engulf the site, we recommend visiting as early in the day as possible for the chance to wander among the towering pyramids in relative peace. The site itself is vast and, although you are no longer allowed to climb any of the structures, it is intriguing to explore.
Uxmal
The smaller and less crowded ruin of Uxmal, to the south of Merida, has a more mystical feel than Chichén Itzá. Dedicated to the rain god Chac, it is unusual with ornate and intricate murals decorating the temples and many of the ruins remaining uncovered creating a more authentic feel.
Merida
The city of Merida boasts some impressive colonial housing, colorful markets, a 16th century cathedral and an art museum of local crafts. All the main attractions are within easy reach and it is a good base for exploring the surrounding area.
Alternatively, some of the original rural haciendas have been sympathetically converted into hotels, some of which still contain their original farm machinery and offer an interesting insight into a bygone era.
For nature lovers, the stunning underground “cenotes” (sinkholes) dotted all over the Yucatán can provide a refreshing dip, while birders may wish to visit the resident flamingos at Celestun.
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Places to visit in Yucatán Peninsula
Featuring heavily on our experiences of visiting Yucatán Peninsula, these selected places are destinations that also prove consistently popular with our travelers. Our specialists can help you choose how to include them in your wider trip, based on your preferences.
Suggested itineraries featuring Yucatán Peninsula
Our itineraries will give you suggestions for what is possible when you travel in Yucatán Peninsula, and they showcase routes we know work particularly well. Treat them as inspiration, because your trip will be created uniquely by one of our specialists.
Places in and around Yucatán Peninsula
- Cancun Yucatán Peninsula
- Chichén Itzá Yucatán Peninsula
- Coba Yucatán Peninsula
- Kabah Yucatán Peninsula
- The Mayan Riviera Yucatán Peninsula
- Mérida Yucatán Peninsula
- Playa del Carmen Yucatán Peninsula
- Tulum Yucatán Peninsula
- Uxmal Yucatán Peninsula
- Isla Holbox 235 kilometers away
- Isla Mujeres 247 kilometers away
- Yaxchilan 417 kilometers away
- Bonampak 439 kilometers away
- Palenque 443 kilometers away
Photos of Yucatán Peninsula
Accommodation choices for Yucatán Peninsula
We’ve selected a range of accommodation options for when you visit Yucatán Peninsula. Our choices usually come recommended for their character, facilities and service or location. Our specialists always aim to suggest properties that match your preferences.
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The Lodge at Uxmal
The Lodge at Uxmal is right opposite the entrance to the archaeological site. It's the sister hotel of the Mayaland at Chichén Itzá and Hacienda Uxmal.
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Marriott Courtyard Cancun
This is a 201 room hotel conveniently located only 5 minutes away from Cancun airport, perfect for a 1 night stay.
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Esencia
Esencia is a beautiful boutique resort set on powder white sands of the Mayan Riviera and overlooking the turquoise Caribbean Sea.
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Be Tulum
Be Tulum is a luxurious beachfront hotel with panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea, surrounded by tropical forest.
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Ana y José
Surrounded by lush tropical gardens, Ana y José provides comfortable beach front accommodation and has an excellent reputation for service and quality.
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Viceroy Riviera Maya
The Viceroy Riviera Maya is a luxurious and peaceful beachfront hideaway offering excellent service, beautifully appointed rooms, and a full range of amenities and services.
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Belmond Maroma
Set among verdant jungle beside a white, sandy beach, Belmond Maroma Resort & Spa is one of Mexico’s top luxury hotels.
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Hip Hotel
The Hip Hotel Tulum has a wonderful beach front location perfect for those seeking a relaxing break on one of Mexico's most beautiful stretches of beach.
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Mahekal Beach Resort
An authentic Mexican-style resort that welcomes families, the Mahekal Beach Resort is located right in the heart of Playa del Carmen, with direct access to the beach.
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Mayaland
Mayaland is a hotel with an excellent location right next to the Chichén Itzá ruins with its own access to them.
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Hacienda Chichén
As one of the oldest hotels in Chichén Itzá, Hacienda Chichen has been a focus of activity in the Yucatán since the Spaniards founded it in 1523.
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Casa Lecanda
This beautifully restored old casona, or small manor house, has been thoughtfully decorated to high standards throughout.
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Hacienda Merida
The Hacienda Merida is a lovely historic property converted in to a charming boutique B+B in the heart of Merida, next door to its higher-end sister property, Hacienda VIP.
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Hacienda Temozon
This magnificent hacienda, south of Merida, has been tastefully restored to preserve the original architecture.
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Hacienda Ticum
Located just 30 minutes away from Merida, Hacienda Ticum is one of the newest luxury boutique hotels in this part of Mexico.