Mexico

24 Best Things to do in Campeche Mexico: 2024 Local’s Guide

There are plenty of things to do in Campeche city to warrant spending an enjoyable long weekend in the Southern Mexican city. Campeche is massively underrated and, at least for now, it remains under the radar as a Mexico travel destination, despite its proximity to the Yucatan state and Quintana Roo. 

It is important to note that Campeche is both the name of the state and the city that is the capital of Campeche state. In this Campeche travel guide, Campeche refers to Campeche city. Campeche state is the least-visited state in the tri-state Yucatan peninsula. Now is a great time to visit before word gets out, and prices and crowds increase! 

This article has been written by a British Travel Writer based in the nearby city of Merida, Mexico . I have been to Campeche countless times and have gotten to know the city pretty well.

Table of Contents

Falling in Love with Campeche, Mexico  

campeche mexico tourism

Few international travelers have heard of Campeche but it is of significant importance in Mexican history. Records indicate that ancient civilizations have occupied this land from as early as 3000 BC, before the days of the Ancient Maya. 

The coastal city was a thriving trade port during the 17th century – mainly dealing with the export of dyewood and salt. It became the capital of the Yucatan peninsula several times throughout the 19th century, before being appointed the capital of the new state of Campeche in 1863. 

Today, Campeche is a charming coastal town that provides a welcome glimpse into the “real” life in Mexico. Its old town is UNESCO-protected, excellently preserved, and feels almost frozen in time. 

Best Things to do in Campeche, Mexico 

Things to do in Campeche

Some of the best things to do in Campeche city are detailed below – from the must-see sights to the off-the-beaten-path gems.

Take the time to get lost in the old town 

Things to do in Campeche Mexico

Merida may get all of the glory. However, Campeche’s old town is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful examples of a colonial settlement in Mexico following the Spanish conquest. The pastel-colored streets here are a Photographer’s dream. Each house, tienda (store), and restaurant is painted a different vibrant color, with each one more beautiful than the last. As you meander around the narrow cobbled street, the most unsuspecting side streets and alleyways open out into leafy, grand plazas, and beautiful church courtyards. The old town still maintains its original 17th-century fortifications which were necessary during a time when pirate attacks were a constant threat. 

You can walk along the old city walls and ramparts that are extremely well preserved.

Stop for a traditional Mexican breakfast at La Casa De Las Mascaras 

campeche mexico tourism

As far as most Mexicans are concerned, breakfast (desayunos) is the most important meal of the day. For a quintessentially Mexican experience, head to La Casa De Las Mascaras for breakfast/brunch. Order yourself a mouthwatering plate of chilaquiles roja. These are torn-up, fried tortillas cooked in a delicious tomato sauce with cheese, sour cream, and chicken. Alternatively, order some huevos a la Mexicana or huevos con longaniza (spiced chorizo from Valladolid). Sink your teeth into a freshly baked Mexican concha pastry on the side and wash it all down with a cafe con leche . 

La Casa De Las Mascaras (C. Coahuila 104 B, Barrio de Sta Ana) is a cute place to stop for lunch in the Santa Ana district of Campeche city. It doubles as a cafe and art exhibition space and opens out to the beautiful Santa Ana church and park. 

Watch the sunset from the Malecon

Best things to do in Campeche: see the sunset from the malecon

A pleasant way to spend an evening is to stroll along the Malecon at Golden Hour before watching the sunset. The sunset over the Gulf of Mexico from here is one of the best in the Yucatan peninsula. Every day at sunset, you will see lots of locals crowded around the harbor watching this beautiful spectacle as if they are seeing it again for the first time. Stay until the sun dips behind the horizon and then head into one of the waterfront bars for an evening tipple or two. It takes about 45 minutes to walk the main length of the Malecon. This is assuming you start close to the Galleria Mall in the west and end at the Puerto de San Roman harbor. You will pass by several interesting sculptures and street art pieces as you go. Some depict important events in Mexico’s history such as the revolution and others are political in nature.

At all hours of the day, you can usually see pelicans flying overhead and hanging out on old wooden fishing boats, and hopeful local fishermen wading into the water with nets. There is also a small outdoor gym – the Campeche version of muscle beach!

Drink micheladas on the malecon

campeche mexico tourism

There is a small scattering of bars along the Campeche Malecon that really come to life on Friday and Saturday nights. La Malteza (Av. Resurgimiento 77A, Montecristo, 24044) is a cheap and cheerful cervezeria that is always bursting with life. Most establishments here sell a good selection of cocktails, beers, and other non-alcoholic and alcoholic Mexican drinks. For something unapologetically Mexican, order a michelada or, as they are known in the Yucatan peninsula, an ojo rojo (red eye). This is a beer cocktail made by blending beer with tomato juice, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, hot sauce, and a sprig of lime. It sounds questionable but you might find yourself growing a liking for it. 

Take a trolley tour of Campeche

campeche mexico tourism

In the main square (zocalo) of Campeche, you will see a lot of old-fashioned trolleys and buses. For 100 pesos per person (circa $5), you can take a trolley tour around Campeche. The tour departs almost hourly and takes approximately 45 minutes. You will pass through some of Campeche’s most historic neighborhoods and your guide will give more background and context to some of the districts, churches, and historic buildings that you see. You will have a couple of opportunities to stop, disembark and take photos. Campeche also has some bright red hop-on, hop-off buses but arguably the old trolleys are more charming! 

Hang out at Calle 59

campeche mexico tourism

When night falls, Campeche residents head to Calle 59. What looks like a rather unsuspecting street during the day comes to life at night as local restaurants and bars set out tables and chairs in the middle of the street, and salsa and reggaeton music plays out from every angle. You can simply meander down the street and stop in whichever bar takes your fancy. The street does get very crowded on Friday and Saturday nights and you can find that it is a bit of a quest to get a table if there are a few of you. If you prefer a more laid-back vibe, some of the bars along the Malecon may be better suited for you. The bars and restaurants at Calle 59 have a little something for everyone – from chic lounges and dive bars, to fast food joints where you can grab a quick hamburger and upscale steakhouses. 

Eat at Aduana Vasconcelos

campeche mexico tourism

Among all of the restaurants on Calle 59, Aduana Vasconcelos ( C. 59 1, Zona Centro) is the one that stands out from the crowd. The eatery prides itself on its traditional Campeche and Yucatecan delicacies that are cooked to perfection utilizing the very best local ingredients. 

Consider ordering a cochinita pibil – tender pork that is seasoned and slow-cooked underground using the same practices that the Ancient Maya would use. Being close to the sea, it should come as no surprise that Campeche is known for its fresh seafood. The Octopus pastor is a good choice. So too, are the “Ajillo camarones” – fresh local shrimps sauteed with chili, garlic, olive oil, and white wine. If you find yourself spoiled for choice and you can’t decide what to order, Aduana also offers charcuterie board starters that allow you to sample small portions of various Yucatecan dishes at once. Wash it all down with a deliciously fruity mezcal cocktail prepared by expert in-house mixologists.

Hang out in the Zocalo 

campeche mexico tourism

The main central square in Mexican cities is known as a “Zocalo” and Campeche’s is particularly charming. The pièce de résistance here is the imposing Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Cathedral (Campeche cathedral) which sits on the eastern side of the square. However, the adjacent park, known as Plaza de la Independencia, is just as pleasant. Here, papel picado flags flutter in the wind, and there are always an array of street vendors selling everything from street food eats to cute handbags, purses, and other Mexican souvenirs.  

Enjoy cocktails with a view 

There are a few restaurants scattered around the zocalo. One in particular that you should look out for is Casa Vieja del Rio (Calle 10 No.319 Altos, Zona Centro). The entrance to the restaurant is not clear. Look out for a narrow tiled staircase right off the main street (Calle 10) in the Zocalo. This beautiful building was once home to the very first hotel in Campeche and in its heyday, many Latin celebrities opted to stay here while in town. Today, the restaurant and bar serve typical Mexican fares such as fajitas and a variety of tacos. Casa Vieja del Rio is perhaps best known for its margaritas which are perfect to enjoy with the view. The view is the main appeal of the place. However, the interiors are also quaint and charming. The walls are decorated with various antiques and artwork pieces collected from across Mexico. On certain days, local artists often host exhibitions here to sell their works. 

Step inside the Campeche cathedral 

campeche mexico tourism

The Campeche cathedral is the main focal point of the city’s central square and is dedicated to “Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception.” The structure dates back to 1605. Construction was completed in 1760, with a second steeple later added in 1850. The cathedral’s interiors are just as spectacular as the exterior and feature a spectacular 17th-century altar. Passing through the door on your left, you can step into the adjacent courtyard and visit the little yellow Chapel of Jesús Nazareno. The chapel contains a religious museum filled with paintings and items recovered from the main church. Admission is 10 pesos.  

Tour Barrio Guadalupe 

campeche mexico tourism

When you are exploring Campeche, it can be hard to understand where one barrio (neighborhood) ends and another begins. Barrio Guadalupe is a district just a few blocks away from the Zocalo that was home to the nobility of Campeche. There is a charming central square where locals come to walk their dogs or catch up over a cup of takeout coffee. Most notably, look out for the pastel-yellow Temple of Guadalupe. This beautiful yellow church, surrounded by cherry blossom trees, dates back to 1660 and was built in honor of the Virgin of Guadalupe of Tepeyac. A wealthy barrio Guadalupe citizen named Pedro Martin de Monilla funded the creation of the church in 1575. 

Admire the Iglesia de San Francisco 

Iglesia de San Francisco, Campeche city

Campeche, like many Mexican cities, is filled with beautiful churches and cathedrals. Mexico is a deeply Catholic country after all. Even if you are not religious, you can admire their beauty and cultural significance. A great thing to do while exploring Campeche is to simply follow Google Maps to the various churches in town. Not only will you discover beautiful places of worship, but you will also stumble across wonderful neighborhoods that you would not have found otherwise. The Iglesia de San Francisco is one of the most important churches in the city. 

The church was founded in 1546. It was built on the ground where in 1517, the first mass in America was held. This convent had two functions. It was used for religious ceremonies but it also doubled as a defensive fortress to guard against pirate attacks. The interior of the church is simple and modest, but it is still used for ceremonies to this day.

Visit the Campeche mercado 

Mexican marketplaces are always interesting to explore, regardless of how much time you have spent traveling in Latin America. The Campeche mercado is great because it is not touristic and you will see purely locals shopping here 

You will see every item imaginable displayed on the stalls – from clothing and faux designer bags and sunglasses to fresh fruit and vegetables. The produce markets are perhaps the most interesting to observe. Rows and rows of perfectly polished fruits extend as far as the eye can see. If you are staying in self-catering accommodation, this is a great place to pick up some fresh avocados, mangos, pineapples, etc. Otherwise, the Campeche market provides a great people-watching opportunity. Watch on as locals haggle over the prices of ingredients to prepare their Sunday dinners. 

Visit the Museo Arqueológico de Campeche

The Campeche archeological museum is housed inside the 18th-century Fuerte de San Miguel *San Miguel Fort). It is spread across two floors and contains an array of artifacts that were recovered from the region. Most of the items here have been recovered from the Calakmul ruins in the southern part of the state. Some originate from the nearby Edzna ruins, and others were retrieved from Isla de Jaina, an ancient burial site for Mayan aristocrats. 

Check out the exhibits at the Mayan Architecture Museum 

The Mayan Architecture Museum (Museo de Arquitectura Maya) is housed inside the Baluarte de Saldad. This is one of the old 17th-century defenses that once protected the walled city of Campeche. Here, you can view several interesting obelisks, sculptures, and tablets created by the Ancient Maya. The exhibits showcase items recovered from four different Mayan regions: Puuc, North Peten, Chenes, and Rio Bec. The spectacular jade mask from Calakmul is perhaps one of the most spectacular items you can view inside. If you have spent a few days in Mexico City and you have visited the CDMX Anthropology Museum, the Mayan Architecture Museum pails in comparison. But if you have an interest in Mayan culture and history, it is well worth a visit.  

Visit the Centro Cultural Casa No. 6 

On the western side of the zocalo, you will see a traditional vibrant red house that has been transformed into a living museum. This is the Centro Cultural Casa No 6. Arguably Campeche’s tourism board could have come up with a catchier name. However, the house provides an interesting glimpse into what life was like for Campeche nobles back in the 18th century. The entrance to the house is just 10 pesos per person. Most of the furniture that has been used to decorate the house are replicas. However, some of the porcelain and pottery items date back to the original owners. 

Admire the Iglesia San Juan de Dios 

Things to do in Campeche

The church of San Juan de Dios is an altogether darker, more imposing, and Gothic-looking church compared to others in Campeche. It dates back to 1626 and was built with the dual purpose of serving as both a church and a hospital for the sick.

In 1685, Campeche residents took shelter here while the city was under attack from pirates. Today, only the church portion of the building remains. Sadly, in the 1960s, part of the building was demolished to make way for new houses. 

Wander through the Campeche botanical garden 

The Xmuch’haltún Campeche Botanical Gardens are small but worth a quick walk through if it isn’t too hot. They are set within one of the surviving bastions of the fortified old town. 

In Mayan, the name “Xmuch’haltún” means “water that springs from the earth” pointing to a fountain at the center of the garden. Several tropical plants grow here, in addition to indigenous herbs that are native to this part of Mexico.

See the Ex Templo San Jose 

campeche mexico tourism

The Ex Templo San Jose is a grand baroque church that sits at the crossroads of Calle 10 and Calle 63, just a short walk away from the Zocalo. The front facade of the church is particularly striking and has been decorated with blue and yellow azulejo tiles that resemble something you would expect to see in Puebla or somewhere like Spain or Portugal. The church was built by the Jesuits in 1716. San Jose is the patron saint of carpenters and shipbuilders. The Jesuits were then kicked out of the “new world” in 1767. 

Search for street art 

Things to do in Campeche

Several contemporary art sculptures and street art pieces can be found scattered around Campeche. A lot of them showcase indigenous peoples and are something of a celebration of the cultures of the Yucatan peninsula. 

Take a day trip out to the ruins at Edzna 

campeche mexico tourism

Edzna, House of the Itzas , is simultaneously one of the most overlooked and spectacular Mayan ruins in all of Mexico. The city was occupied as early as 700 BC and it was an important political and commercial hub for the Ancient Maya. Since Campeche state is not that popular among tourists yet and the ruins are somewhat remote, you can often visit Edzna and find that you have the ruins entirely to yourself! This is particularly true if you visit during the week. 

The archeological site is located 52km south of Campeche city and it takes about an hour to reach if you are driving. If you are not renting a car in Mexico , you can also take a local bus to Edzna or organize an excursion with a local tour operator. 

Watch the sound and light show 

The Puerta De La Tierra light show is something that you must see while in Campeche. It takes place every Thursday – Sunday at 8 pm. Vibrant scenes are projected onto the historic arched building and they tell the story of Campeche’s history through the centuries. The show lasts about 40 minutes and is free to watch. Get there early to grab the best chairs and then continue on to Calle 59.

Head to the beach 

There is no beach within Campeche city limits itself. However, there are several just a short drive away that is accessible if you have a car. Arguably, Playa Bonita is the most convenient to get to. While it doesn’t necessarily rival the beauty of the Mexican Caribbean or the remote Yucatan beaches , it has everything that you could need for a day at the coast. 

There are a couple of restaurants and bars right on the waterfront where you can enjoy typical Mexican fare or rent a sunbed and umbrella for the day for just a few pesos. The more remote Playa Punta Santa Julian, Playa Sabancuy, Bahamitas beach, and Payucan are also worth adding to your radar. 

Visit the San Jose fortress 

The high fortress of San Jose (Fuerte de San Jose el Alto) is a beautiful, bright yellow fortress on the outskirts of town. It is painted in a bold, vibrant, banana-yellow shade that is reminiscent of the Yucatan Pueblo Magico of Izamal.

Here you will also find the Underwater Archeology museum which contains artifacts recovered from under the nearby waters. Better still, are the incredible panoramas that can be enjoyed from the fortress’ hilltop viewpoint.

This is the perfect place to watch the sunset over the Gulf of Mexico.

Where to Stay in Campeche Mexico 

campeche mexico tourism

Campeche offers a wide selection of hotels and accommodation types to suit every budget and taste. You can find a comfortable double room with a private bathroom in a decent hotel here for as little as $25-$30 a night. There is usually plenty of availability, but it is advisable to make your reservations in advance to avoid disappointment, especially if your travel dates coincide with the Mexican holidays. A selection of reputable Campeche hotels to add to your radar is detailed below for your consideration. 

  • Gamma Campeche Malecon – luxury waterfront hotel with a pool without the luxury prices
  • Hacienda Puerta Campeche – a luxe 5 star stay in a converted old hacienda
  • Casa Don Gustavo Boutique Hotel – quirky, luxurious rooms set within a renovated 18th-century Campeche house
  • H177 Hotel – Charming, eclectic stay inside a converted colonial house right in the heart of the old town
  • Hacienda Uayamon – Gorgeous rooms set inside a gothic hacienda from the 1700s 

Getting to Campeche, Mexico 

campeche mexico tourism

Campeche is home to an international airport; The Ing. Alberto Acuña Ongay International Airport sits on the southern outskirts of town. However, domestic and international flight routes to Campeche are very limited. Unless you are traveling to Mexico specifically to visit Campeche, you are likely to be traveling overland from nearby Merida, Quintana Roo, or Chiapas . 

Take the ADO bus to Campeche 

Depending on your starting point, ADO buses might be the most convenient way of getting to Campeche. Public transportation in Mexico is better than you may expect.

Mexican buses are generally pretty comfortable, clean, and well-maintained. ADO buses boast air-conditioning, complimentary wifi, and reclining seats. If you opt to pay a little more to travel on their premium buses, you can also enjoy USB charging ports in your seats and complimentary beverages. You can get direct buses to Campeche from Palenque and Merida. The journey from Merida to Campeche takes around 2.5 hours and buses depart every 30-60 minutes throughout the day. Services between Palenque in Chiapas run to Campeche three times a day. The journey takes around 6 hours. ADO and OCC offer direct buses from Cancun to Campeche. Expect to be on the road for around 8.5 hours. 

Buying bus tickets to Campeche

Busbud is a good site to use to check bus times and routes and purchase tickets. You can also purchase tickets directly via the ADO website or app. However, there is sometimes an issue with using international credit and debit cards to make a purchase. So, you may find that you have to buy your tickets in person or via Busbud. The ADO website and app are only available in Spanish. However, even if you cannot speak Spanish, they are fairly self-explanatory and are still easy to navigate. 

FAQs about the Best Things to do in Campeche Mexico

campeche mexico tourism

Do you have any further questions or concerns about planning a trip to Campeche for the first time? The answers to some frequently asked questions are detailed below.

Hopefully, you will find the information you are looking for there. If not, feel free to reach out!

Is Campeche safe? 

Campeche Mexico is a fairly safe place to visit , even for solo female travelers. Mexico in general can be a safe place to travel provided that you use common sense and use the same precautions that you would when traveling anywhere else in the world. Arguably, traveling to Campeche is not all that different from exploring the destinations within the rest of the Yucatan peninsula. It perhaps requires a little more awareness than Merida which is the safest city in Mexico . However, it also feels more comfortable to explore than Cancun and Tulum. 

Is Campeche worth visiting? 

Campeche is absolutely worth visiting, particularly if you have access to a car and you are already embarking on a Yucatan road trip or itinerary . There is plenty to keep you occupied for 2-3 days, or longer if you like exploring at a slower pace. 

Campeche has so far escaped the attention of most international tourists. Prices across the board (at hotels, restaurants, coffee shops, etc) are much more economical here compared to popular nearby travel destinations. Better still, you never have to contend with crowds.

Can I drink the water in Campeche? 

You cannot drink the water in Campeche – or anywhere in Mexico for that matter. Although the water in Mexico is purified at the source, it often gets contaminated en route to your tap. So, you’ll need to stick to drinking bottled water during your trip. Consider purchasing a reusable water bottle so that your water is kept cold throughout the day and you minimize your plastic waste. 

Does Campeche have nice beaches?

There are no beaches within Campeche city itself, but there are several gorgeous spots nearby. From the city, you can consider heading out to the fishing village of Lerma and Playa Bonita.

Head a little further afield and you will find Isla Aguada – a Yucatan pueblo magico . The beaches here boast soft, powdery white sand and translucent turquoise waters.

Can you swim in Campeche?

Yes! The beautiful beaches across Campeche state offer clear and calm waters that are perfect for swimming and snorkeling in.

Better yet, the water temperature is great all year round.

Final thoughts on the best things to do in Campeche Mexico

campeche mexico tourism

Have you ever traveled to San Francisco de Campeche, Mexico? Do you have any further suggestions for the best things to do in Campeche?

If you are traveling to Mexico for the first time, you might also find these Mexico travel tips helpful or you may enjoy reading these interesting facts about the country.

I live a couple of hours away in Merida and have spent several weekends in Campeche with my partner who has to travel here a lot for work. I created this guide as I noted that there was limited information online when it came to planning a trip to Campeche and it is something I would have liked to have had when I planned my first trip! 

Have a wonderful time exploring Mexico! Hasta Luego! Xo 

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Melissa Douglas

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Visit Campeche: Top 20 Things To Do and Must-See Attractions

Things to do in campeche: the 20 best places to visit.

“You’ll see, in one day you will have done everything there is to do in the city of Campeche ”.

That’s what someone told me when I left Merida to visit San Francisco de Campeche , a city that doesn’t get much attention and that is the capital of the state of Campeche , next to the state of Yucatan .

But I fell in love with Campeche and stayed there for fifteen days , enjoying the calm and beauty of its old walled city that was named a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. I want to show you that it deserves more than just a day trip!

Here is my ultimate guide to Campeche , with all the places you can’t miss and the best activities to do , my recommendations for restaurants, hotels for every budget , and of course, my tips to make the most of your stay.

So, what are the best things to do in Campeche? Where to stay?

1. Exploring the city walls

2. the city museum, 3. the museum of mayan architecture, 4. independence square, 5. the cathedral, 6. el palacio cultural center, 7. cultural center casa no. 6, 8. strolling through the streets, 9. cuauhtémoc building, 10. the malecon, 11. fuerte san miguel, 13. hacienda uayamon, 14. the rio bec route, 15. calakmul, 16. santa rosa xtampac, 18. isla aguada, 19. caves of xtacumbilxunaán, 20. ich ha lol xaan ecotourism center, what to do in campeche in 1 day, visit campeche in 2 days, visiting campeche in 3 days, where to stay in campeche, where to eat in campeche, tourist map of campeche, how to get to campeche, rent a car in mexico, you’re traveling in mexico these articles will help you, campeche: all must-see attractions.

Campeche has a rich and fascinating history. It was once a Mayan city called “Ah Kin Pech”, but the Spaniards destroyed it and turned it into the most important port in Yucatan.

Because of its strategic location , it was often attacked by pirates. To protect it, they built a wall around the city.

Today, you can walk along the wall and see the contrast between the old and the new. The best place to start is Baluarte San Francisco .

There is a small museum there that tells you about the piracy history and shows you some artifacts. But the main attraction is the access to the walls . You can walk from Baluarte San Francisco to Baluarte San Juan and admire the beautiful and colorful city from above.

It’s a great way to see Campeche from a different perspective!

  • Visit to the Baluarte de San Francisco : entrance fee 40 pesos, Monday to Sunday from 10am to 5pm

fortificaciones campeche

If you want to learn more about the history and culture of Campeche, you should visit the Museo de la Ciudad. It is located in the Baluarte de San Carlos , which was the first part of the wall to be built.

The museum displays how the city looked like in colonial times, with models, paintings, and artifacts. Don’t miss the chance to see the old prison downstairs and the wall upstairs, although they are not very long.

  • Visit the city museum : Tuesday to Saturday from 9 am to 1 pm and 4 pm to 8 pm. Corner of Calle 63 and Calle 8, Campeche.

baluarte san carlos campeche

The Museo de la Arquitectura Maya is a great place to see the diversity and beauty of the Maya architectural styles. It is located in the Baluarte de la Soledad , which is part of the wall that surrounds the city.

The museum showcases artifacts (stelae, columns, sculptures, etc.) from many important sites such as Calakmul and Edzna . You can learn about the different styles that the Maya developed over time, such as North Petén, Río Bec, Chenes and Puuc.

  • Visit the Museum of Mayan Architecture : entrance fee 90 pesos, Tuesday to Sunday from 9 am to 3 pm

museo arquitectura maya campeche

You can’t miss it because it is the heart of the city! This is where the locals come to sit on the benches and chat.

Here are some things to see and do in the main plaza of Campeche:

  • Visit the cathedral
  • Explore the El Palacio cultural center
  • Check out the Casa no. 6
  • Have a coffee at the kiosk in the center of town
  • Enjoy the live music on weekend nights
  • Watch the projection “Celebremos Campeche” from Tuesday to Sunday at 8 p.m. on the façade of El Palacio
  • Take the tourist streetcar that offers a 45 minute to 1 hour ride through the main attractions and neighborhoods of Campeche

plaza independencia campeche

The Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception of Campeche is a beautiful building that combines baroque and neoclassical styles. It was built between 1540 and 1760, and it is the oldest cathedral in the Yucatan Peninsula .

Its interior is simple, but elegant. I really liked its inner courtyard, where you can see some paintings and sculptures. It is worth a visit.

catedral campeche mexico

The El Palacio Cultural Center is a museum that you might not notice at first glance. It is right across from the main square, but it blends in with the other buildings.

The museum shows you different aspects of the city of Campeche through four thematic rooms and about 200 objects. You can see projections and models that show how the city changed over time.

My favorite part is the ship simulator : a very fun activity, where you get to be a sailor on a ship from Campeche to Spain. You have to face different challenges like storms and pirate attacks. It’s a great way to learn about the maritime history of Campeche and have some fun. Kids will love it.

  • Open from Tuesday to Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m

centro cultural el palacio campeche

This is a typical house of a wealthy family from the colonial period and you will see the inside as it was in the 19th century with the bedroom, the living room, the study, and its inner courtyard with Moorish arches decorated with beautiful stained glass windows.

  • Visit Casa no. 6 : entrance fee 20 pesos, from 9 am to 4 pm. I recommend the guided tour (free, optional) to learn more about the place.

casa no 6 campeche

The old city of Campeche is full of colorful facades that preserve the hues of the past, green, yellow, pink…

It also maintains its very orderly colonial layout, so you won’t get lost.

Here are some highlights that you should not miss:

  • Iglesia del dulce nombre de Jesús : this church is a typical example of Mexican architecture, with its small bell towers and yellow facade❤️. On the corner of 55th and 12th streets.
  • Iglesia San José : it is easy to recognize with its beautiful tile-covered facade . it is a place where artisans come to sell their work. You can visit it from 10 am to 8 pm. On the corner of 10th and 63rd streets.
  • San Roque or San Francisquito Church : this church was built in the 17th century, it is one of the most beautiful churches in Campeche . It has a simple façade, but the interior is impressive with 5 stunning baroque altarpieces . Open daily from 8 am to 7 pm. Corner of Calle 12 and Calle 59.
  • La Mansión Carvajal: this building was constructed in the early 18th century, with a magnificent architecture of Arab influence . You can only enter the lobby to take pictures, as it is now an office building. It is on 10th Street between 51 and 53.
  • Casa San Pablo : this is a cultural center that offers several temporary exhibits throughout the year, featuring artists from Campeche. It is small, but afree to enter, so why not check it out. Calle 59, between 14th and 16th streets.
  • Calle 59:  this is the pedestrian street that connects Puerta de Tierra and Puerta de Mar. It is lined with restaurants, bars and cafés.
  • Baluarte Santiago : here you will find the Xmuch-Haltún Botanical Garden . might be a bit exaggerated, as it is very small (you will walk for 5 min), but if you are looking for a place to sit in the shade, surrounded by plants and trees, why not! Admission 15 pesos, Monday to Friday from 8am to 9pm, Saturdays and Sundays from 9am to 9pm.

campeche yucatán

This place is a wonderful discovery in Campeche ! Maybe it’s not so secret, but I came across it by accident and couldn’t find much information about it.

It’s a beautiful building (from the mid-18th to 19th century) on the corner of the Plaza de la Independencia . When you walk in, you see a spacious courtyard with a cafe, which is a cozy spot to unwind, but I highly recommend going up to the 2nd floor.

There you’ll find some offices, and also – I believe – a tiny hotel with no staff. Anyway, no one seemed to care that I was there, so I got to explore the building a bit.

edificio cuauhtémoc campeche

It is a 2 miles walkway along the Gulf of Mexico that offers the perfect place for walking, biking or jogging with its separate lanes .

But more importantly, it is the best place to watch the sunset .

malecón campeche

San Miguel Fort is a fortification built at the end of the 18th century on the Buena Vista hill to protect the city from a possible invasion by England (which never happened).

Today it houses the Museum of Mayan Culture, which displays amazing artifacts such as the Calakmul jade mask.

What to see around Campeche

Besides its historic center, there are many amazing places to see around Campeche . Keep in mind that some sites are nearby and others are several hours away: plan your itinerary wisely!

Founded in 600 BC, Edzná was a powerful capital and the most important Maya city in eastern Yucatán .

The site is much smaller than Chichén Itzá , Calakmul or Uxmal , but it was still one of my favorite archaeological sites in Mexico .

In fact, since the buildings are only partially restored and it is not very popular with tourists, I found it very intriguing to explore!

Also, its main pyramid is fascinating with its vaulted rooms, a rare Mayan architectural style.

  • Don’t miss out on My Complete Guide to Edzná with all the practical information and details of this must-see visit to Campeche !

edzna Temple of Five Stories

Hacienda Uayamon was built in the 17th century, near Edzná .

It became one of the most important haciendas in the state of Campeche thanks to the variety of its products (cattle, sugar cane, corn, “palo de tinte” a wood used as dye, and henequen ).

Today it is a wonderful luxury hotel , but if you don’t want to stay at Hacienda Uayamón , you can also visit the well-preserved facilities and imagine life in colonial times. It is worth a visit.

hacienda uayamon

This is an important archaeological route in Mexico of 167 miles connecting Escárcega and Chetumal in Quintana Roo , where you can find many Mayan sites that are not very well-known to tourists, such as:

– Becan : it is a must-see on the Rio Bec road, with many secret passages inside Structure VIII that were probably used for religious ceremonies. It’s fun to explore them! Also, the site is surrounded by one of the oldest defensive systems in Mesoamerica . Admission 75 pesos, free for children under 13 years old

– Xpujil : the highlight of the site is its great temple with 50 ft high towers, inside the Calakmul reserve . Staying in Xpujil (click here to check out the hotels!) is the best option to explore the surroundings.

– Chicanná : it means the “House of the snake’s mouth” in Maya. This site is characterized by the richness of detail of its structures, which makes it, according to some researchers, a place reserved for the elite . There are seven structures, including Structure II, which is richly decorated with a huge mask of Itzamná , the creator god. Admission 70 pesos, Monday to Sunday from 8 am to 5 pm

– Balamkú (or Balan Ku): “temple of the jaguar” in Maya, is a small site famous for its large frieze 17 m long and 2.5 m high, representing the order of the universe . Unforgettable. Admission 70 pesos, open from 8 am to 5 pm

– Hormiguero : its main attraction is Structure II, with a magnificent carved mask on the façade representing a jaguar with its jaw open, surrounded by two warriors. The site is quite small, but impressive and free . Also, the caretaker is happy to chat with visitors about the site. Open from 9 am to 5 pm every day

Visit to the Rio Bec Route A s there are no local buses, it is best to rent a car .

Calakmul is one of my favorite places in Mexico.

It’s a bit of a challenge to get there, but it’s totally worth it: it’s located in the biosphere reserve that shares its name, on the border with Guatemala, and it takes 5 hours to drive there from Campeche.

Calakmul was one of the biggest and most influential cities of the Maya civilization, along with Tikal and Palenque . It’s now a UNESCO protected site and an amazing destination for anyone who loves archaeology and history.

The site is very well preserved, there are hardly any tourists, and the numerous structures are hidden in the forest, making you feel like a real adventurer.

Also, unlike other archaeological sites that are now very restricted, you can climb to the top of the pyramids of Calakmul . Structures 1 and 2 are the highlights of Calakmul and the most impressive ones.

Structure II is one of the tallest pyramids in the Maya world , at 160 ft m high.😍

  • Check out my Complete Guide to Calakmul with all the practical information and my tips to organize your visit!

calakmul

There are more than 30 “ Chenes ” sites, an architectural style similar to the Bec River . One of the most important is Santa Rosa Xtampac , which means “old walls” in Maya. It was the regional capital for 850 years.

There are several elements that are quite unusual for the area, such as altars, stelae with important events and dates carved on them, and pyramid-shaped buildings connected by a road.

  • Visit Santa Rosa Xtampac : open from 8 am to 5 pm from Monday to Saturday, entrance fee 75 pesos

santa rosa xtampac

This is a Mayan community located 2 hours from Campeche (on the way to Merida in Yucatan ) where most of the people make a living from their handicrafts .

The big star is the “Jipi” hat , woven with the fiber of the jipijapa palm tree, imported from Guatemala .

These hats are exported all over Mexico and internationally : today, Becal produces 68% of the Panama hats sold in the world!

becal campeche

This is a small fishing village located between the Gulf of Mexico and the Laguna de Términos, a protected area. There are pristine beaches, perfect for relaxing in the sun and the sea.

But people also come to see the dolphins with a boat tour (usually 2h). The tour also takes you to El Arenal , a small island where you can find various sea birds such as pelicans, herons, etc. In fact, there are no less than 279 species of birds in the reserve!

You can try some delicious seafood dishes, such as ceviche, shrimp cocktail, or fish soup. You can also visit the local market, where you can buy some souvenirs, such as hats, hammocks, or pottery.

  • Visit Isla Aguada: it is located 2h from Campeche . Don’t forget your sunglasses and sun protection.

isla aguada campeche

Caves have been very important for the Maya, either as places of ceremony or as sources of natural water. One of the most impressive ones to visit in Campeche is Xtacumbilxunaán.

It’s actually a group of caves that is one of the most important in the Yucatan Peninsula!

You have to go through the entrance, which is about 65 ft high, and up a stairway for about 1150 ft. Inside you will find a fascinating world: temples, ceremonial centers, ponds, stalactites, stalagmites and Mayan remains.

You can explore the site on three levels in about an hour and a half. If you want to go deeper, you can visit other parts of the cave with a guide and even rappel or climb.

  • Visit Xtacumbilxunaán : It is located on the border between Campeche and Yucatán , just under two hours from the city of Campeche . The best way to get there is to rent a car or take a tour from Campeche, as there is no public transportation there.

Ich Ha Lol Xaan is an ecotourism center managed by the community of Hampolol , only 15 miles from the city of Campeche . Their goal is to promote sustainable tourism and environmental protection.

You can enjoy various activities here, such as observing local species (turtles, fish, iguanas, raccoons), swimming in a cenote, kayaking in its clear river, exploring the jungle by walking along its suspension bridge or experiencing the thrill of rappelling and zip-lining.

  • Check out my post: The 20 Most Beautiful Cenotes in Yucatan!

ich ha lol xaan

How much time do you need to visit Campeche?

You can visit the attractions of Campeche’s historic center in one day, but there are also many places to discover in the area.

Here are my suggested itineraries in Campeche to see the most in 1, 2 or 3 days:

The advantage is that the center is easy to visit on foot, as it is relatively small, but you need to pace yourself if you want to see the most in one day in Campeche.

  • In the morning, head to Baluarte San Francisco to tour the city walls
  • Continue to Baluarte San Carlos to visit the city museum
  • Visit the Museum of Mayan Architecture
  • Discover the attractions of the main square: the cathedral, the cultural center El Palacio and the Casa no6
  • In the afternoon, after lunch, discover the archaeological site of Edzná

In two days in Campeche, follow the same programme on the first day.

For the second day, you have several options, but I highly recommend going to  Calakmul : not only is it a site of great historical importance, but it is simply mind-blowing.

You will have to spend a full day , leaving very early in the morning (5-6am) and returning in the evening (8-9pm).

In three days in Campeche , you will have time to see a good part of the region.

After Calakmul, which will be a very busy day, you are sure to be a bit tired (but I insist: it’s worth it!).

To the above itinerary, add this program for the third day:

  • Go to Ich Ha Lool Xaan for swimming, relaxing and walking around the place
  • In the afternoon, back in Campeche , you can take the opportunity to walk through its colorful streets and take pictures, without forgetting the Cuauhtémoc building
  • Finish your walk on the Malecon to watch the sunset

If you are more motivated and looking for a more active visit, you can also go to Isla Aguada , the Xtacumbilxunaán caves or Santa Rosa Xtampak .

In fifteen days, I had the opportunity to try different accommodations in the area. Here are my 3 favorite hotels in Campeche for different budgets, offering excellent value for money:

  • Melisa Hostal : very well located hostel in a beautiful typical house in the center of Campeche , friendly staff, with a small pool, access to a kitchen, and very clean and comfortable mattresses. Bed in shared room, from only 20 $usd per night
  • Casa Serena Beautiful Colonial Loft : a spacious apartment in the center of Campeche that offers excellent value for money . With air conditioning, a living room, kitchen, terrace, good wifi with breakfast included. Sleeps 2 to 4 people , starting at 125 $usd per night
  • Boutique Hotel Casa Don Gustavo : an elegant 18th century manor house completely restored on a pedestrian street in downtown Campeche. A beautiful blend of modernity and colonial decor, with comfortable air-conditioned rooms. Wifi, outdoor pool, jacuzzi and a very tasty à la carte breakfast await guests . Starting at 65 $usd!
  • For breakfast: good wifi and power outlets, and a very nice colonial setting, Luan (corner of Calle 14 and 59) and Sotavento (corner of Calle 55 and 14) are my two favorite places in Campeche for a delicious breakfast and a chance to work on my laptop.

restaurante luan campeche

  • Chocol’Ha : if you are a chocolate lover, you can’t miss this place! The space is very cozy, with its little tables and its typical Mexican atmosphere, and you can find many options of chocolate, dark, milk or with chili, cake, tamales, pancakes, etc.

But, above all, take the opportunity to try one of the many Mexican chocolates in the store – I made some very good discoveries there! It’s on corner of 59th and 14th Street. Facebook page

chocol ha campeche

  • For a treat $$$: there are two places that are worth visiting in Campeche for a gourmet experience.

La Parrilla Colonial (Calle 59, between 10 and 8) is a very elegant place, with a refined decor, and a superb service, ideal if you go with your partner.

They have several traditional Mexican dishes, I tried the arrachera de Monterrey (245 pesos), a high quality meat, very tender and juicy.

If you are a fan of seafood and fish, you should visit La Pigua (Av. Miguel Alemán #179-A).

It is definitely less touristy, and you will meet the more wealthy Campechanos. I enjoyed the octopus with garlic (230 pesos), topped with thin slices of crunchy garlic. Their margarita is also delicious!

parrilla colonial campeche

To make your visit to Campeche easier and more enjoyable, I have created a map for you. It shows you all the must-see attractions, restaurants and cafes in the city.

You can use it to plan your itinerary and find the best places to go. 😊

By bus (ADO):

  • From Merida: the trip takes 2h30, departure every hour
  • From Cancun : the trip takes 6h30, 4 departures a day
  • From Mexico City : the trip takes 17 hours

The international airport “Alberto Acuña Ongay” is only 10 minutes way from the city center . You can find flights to and from Mexico City (1h50) with Aeromexico, Interjet and Vivaaerobus.

To find a cheap flight to Campeche , as well as your international flight to Mexico , I recommend you to use our flight comparator in collaboration with Skyscanner. It’s the best way to get the lowest price!

Renting a car is for sure the best way to explore Campeche and make the most of your stay!

To rent a car, personally, I always use Rentalcars.com, for a few reasons:

  • You can easily compare the rental cars prices between all the agencies: for sure the easiest way to find the best rate!
  • Cancellation is often offered free of charge: no need to worry if you change your mind
  • Rentalcars offers full insurance coverage at a lower price than the rental companies , so it’s an instant saving with no effort

Simply click on the green button to find your rental car at the best price:

Discover all my articles about Mexico : All my articles to help you plan your trip to Mexico are listed there.

  • The 35 Best Things to Do in Mexico
  • Yucatan Peninsula : Top 20 things to Do and See
  • Calakmul (Campeche) : How to Explore the Hidden Maya City in the Jungle
  • Edzna : Everything You Need to Know
  • Itinerary : 10 days in Mexico – Mexico City, Chiapas and Yucatan
  • Itinerary : 2 weeks in Mexico   – Best itinerary to discover the Yucatan Peninsula and Chiapas!
  • Itinerary : 3 weeks in Mexico – Mexico City, Puebla , Oaxaca , Chiapas, Campeche, Yucatán and Riviera Maya
  • Itinerary : 1 month in Mexico – My Epic 30-31 Days Itinerary from Mexico City to Cancun
  • Road trip in Mexico : The best itineraries for 10, 15, 21 days and a month
  • Itinerary : 1 week in Yucatan – The Ultimate 6, 7 or 8 days Itinerary
  • Itinerary : 10 days in Yucatan – Best Itinerary for 9, 10 or 11 Days in Yucatan
  • Itinerary : 2 weeks in Yucatan – Epic Itinerary + All my Best Tips!
  • Itinerary : 3 weeks in Yucatan – Best things to do in 20-21 days
  • Itinerary : 1 month in Yucatan – Yucatan Peninsula in 29, 30 or 31 days from Cancun
  • Road trip in Yucatan : The best itineraries for 7, 10, 15, 21 days and 1 month

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visit Campeche Mexico

I have created this blog to give you all my best tips to plan your next trip to Mexico, regardless of your budget. I share detailed itineraries, advice about places to visit as well as recommendations for transportation, hotels and restaurants. I hope I will also help you to discover amazing off the beaten path destinations in Mexico!

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  • All our Guides about Mexico

Mexico, Campeche State, Campeche City, historical center listed as World Heritage by UNESCO , the Zocalo, the cathedral and the library

Getty Images/Hemis.fr RM

Campeche is a historical fairyland, its walled city center a tight enclave of restored pastel buildings, narrow cobblestone streets, fortified ramparts and well-preserved mansions. Added to Unesco’s list of World Heritage sites in 1999, the state capital lacks a little of a 'daily life' ambience, as few people actually live in the historic center. But leave the inner walls and you’ll find a genuine Mexican provincial capital complete with a frenetic market, peaceful malecón (boardwalk) and old fishing docks.

Leave the planning to a local expert

Experience the real Campeche. Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Museo Arqueológico de Campeche & Fuerte de San Miguel

Museo Arqueológico de Campeche & Fuerte de San Miguel

Campeche’s largest colonial fort, facing the Gulf of Mexico some 4km southwest of the city center, is now home to the most important of Maya museums, the…

Malecón

A popular path for joggers, cyclists, strolling friends and cooing sweethearts, the malecón, Campeche’s 7km-long waterfront promenade, makes for a breezy…

Catedral de Nuestra Señora de la Purísima Concepción

Catedral de Nuestra Señora de la Purísima Concepción

Dominating Plaza Principal’s east side is the two-towered cathedral. The limestone structure has stood on this spot for more than three centuries and it…

Plaza Principal

Plaza Principal

Shaded by carob trees and ringed by tiled benches and broad footpaths radiating from a belle-epoque kiosk, Campeche’s appealingly modest central square…

Museo de la Arquitectura Maya

Museo de la Arquitectura Maya

The Baluarte de Nuestra Señora de la Soledad, designed to protect the Puerta del Mar, contains the fascinating Museo de la Arquitectura Maya. It provides…

Baluarte de San Francisco & Baluarte de San Juan

Baluarte de San Francisco & Baluarte de San Juan

Once the primary defensive bastion for the adjacent Puerta de la Tierra, the Baluarte de San Francisco houses a pirate exhibition in both English and…

Centro Cultural Casa Número 6

Centro Cultural Casa Número 6

During the prerevolutionary era, when this mansion was occupied by an upper-class campechano family, Número 6 was a prestigious plaza address. Wandering…

Baluarte de San Pedro

Baluarte de San Pedro

Directly behind Iglesia de San Juan de Dios, the Baluarte de San Pedro served a post-piracy defensive function when it repelled a punitive raid from…

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campeche mexico tourism

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Campeche, Mexico Travel Guide: Things to Do in Campeche and More

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I visited Campeche, Mexico, for a weekend getaway from Mérida, and discovered a delightful city: tiny and stately, bright and colorful, filled with interesting things to do, but perfectly sized for a short visit.

It’s hard to find places to visit in Mexico that are a little bit off the beaten path, but places you’d still actually want to visit. This is a category that Campeche fulfills particularly well. Campeche is technically on the Yucatán Peninsula, an extremely touristy part of Mexico, but several hours’ drive from the mayhem of the Riviera Maya.

This relative isolation keeps Campeche off many Mexico travelers’ itineraries, but once you visit, you’ll wonder why it doesn’t have more visitors.

Campeche is home to one of the most stately old towns in Mexico, and the colors explode in bright shades of red, yellow, and green. There are plenty of thing to do in Campeche, many of them free. If you’re road tripping, it’s perfectly positioned for a stop between the Yucatán and the ruins of Palenque in Chiapas.

I’d love to share details of my visit with you and everything about what made Campeche so special.

Just a quick FYI — Campeche is the name of both the city and the surrounding state, which can get a bit confusing. In this post, Campeche will refer to the city; Campeche state will refer to the state.

Table of Contents

Two pushcarts in front of a red and white colonial building underneath. bright blue sky in Campeche.

Starting in Hecelchakán

It’s a two-hour drive from Mérida to Campeche, and we’ve left early — and hungry. Just north of Campeche is the perfect detour — the town of Hecelchakán, famous for its cochinita pibil , or slow-roasted pork. But we’ve been told they run out early, and nerves punctuate our drive. Will we make it in time?

As we take the exit into Hecelchakán, a cop stops us and inquires what we, two obvious gringos, are doing here.

“Cochinita?” we say.

The cop grins and waves us in.

The best cochinita comes from a restaurant called Calan, served in the middle of the park. We join the line (locals quickly route us to the correct line after standing in the line for multi-kilo restaurant orders) and we order two tacos and two tortas.

There was just one thing. The woman asks us, “Surtido?” and Charlie says, “Sí.” Turns out surtido means “assorted” — that they will add lots of random pig offal into the mix along with the cochinita!

The cochinita is fabulous. The random bits, well, they were interesting. (I would go so far as to state ordering surtido is what NOT to do in Mexico .) But Hecelchakán is a special culinary stop — worth leaving Mérida early to get there before you visit Campeche.

A red streetcar-style bus parked in front of a white colonial-era church in front of a park, set against a bright blue sky.

What’s Campeche like?

We arrive in Campeche and promptly set out for a walk — and a coffee, of course. Right away we’re struck by the bright colors and neat streets, as well as the open, friendly culture of Mexico that we love so much.

Campeche is a city with a tumultuous history, flavored with piracy and exploration and gold. Originally this area was settled by the Mayans, with a village called Ah Kim Pech. Two larger Mayan cities, Edzna and Calakmul, were in the area that is now Campeche state today.

The first Spanish colonizers arrived in 1517 and established Campeche as the main port in the region. Unsurprisingly, this made Campeche an attractive target for pirates, who first arrived in the late 16th century, and for the next 200 years, Campeche was attacked with frequency.

Much of Campeche’s vibe reflects its mixed heritage: Indigenous Mayan, Spanish, English, Scottish, Portuguese. “Campechano” is often slang for mixed or assorted, and as you’ll see, the local cuisine likes to mix things together.

campeche mexico tourism

Best Things to Do in Campeche, Mexico

Campeche isn’t the kind of city where you rush through a list of things to do. It’s more about enjoying the atmosphere and seeing what you come across. You could easily spend all of your time in the old city of Campeche and it wouldn’t be a wasted visit!

And of course there is a Campeche sign for Instagram photos, right by the malecón! Though if you visit later in the day, like we did, the sign will be in shadow. We took a photo from the opposite side, which was illuminated, and reversed it.

campeche mexico tourism

Explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed old city of Campeche

There are a lot of beautiful restored old towns in Mexico, but I think Campeche is one of the nicest, one of the cleanest, and one of the most elegant.

Even comparing it to Mérida is a huge difference. Mérida’s Centro neighborhood is lovely and colorful, but you notice that Campeche’s is much neater, with even sidewalks (a rarity in Mexico) and smoothly laid out roads! This is what you get when you have UNESCO funding.

campeche mexico tourism

Stroll the Campeche Malecón

One of the nicest things about Campeche is its waterfront setting. The best way to enjoy that? Strolling along the malécon, or the walkway along the waterfront, just before sunset. This is the time when it cools down and everyone comes out to see and be seen.

You’ll see couples posing for photographers, joggers, cyclists, elderly people having conversations and groups of teenagers giggling. It’s a great spot for getting a walk in and enjoying some people-watching.

campeche mexico tourism

Walk the Campeche Baluartes (Ramparts)

The old city of Campeche is bordered with walls that served as protection from pirates. It’s not a complete wall, but there are sections that you can walk up and they make great viewpoints around the city. We ended up with a view of a rehearsing marching band!

campeche mexico tourism

Visit the Maya Architecture Museum

This small museum is in the base of one of the baluartes. You’ll find a collection of interesting Mayan architecture here, as well as information on the Mayan settlements in Campeche state. But the true standout display is the jade mask from Calakmul.

campeche mexico tourism

Visit the Botanical Garden of Xmuch’haltun

Campeche’s botanical garden is tiny and won’t blow you away — but it’s a nice, peaceful, green area and worth a quick visit.

campeche mexico tourism

Try some Campechano cuisine.

Campeche’s cuisine reflects its diverse, eclectic history. As a result, the word “campechano” often means “a bunch of different things mixed together,” even in other parts of Mexico. It’s common to have several kinds of meats and seafood mixed together in different dishes, or in unusual combinations. Squid with almonds? Why not?!

The best meal we had in Campeche was at La Pigua , famous for its coconut shrimp. I’m not a huge coconut shrimp fan ordinarily, but THESE COCONUT SHRIMP WERE THE BEST I HAVE EVER HAD IN MY LIFE. I could have eaten around a dozen of them, EASILY.

campeche mexico tourism

Stop for a Bite at Calle 59

Calle 59 is a pedestrian-only street filled with outdoor tables from the surrounding restaurants. You can eat here at night, but a lot of people come for drinks.

Personally, I felt like this is the one place in Campeche that feels aggressively touristy — the tables are filled with those giant novelty beers that multiple people share. (Reminded me of my early backpacking days in Southeast Asia, sharing a human torso-sized beer with a bunch of sunburned Brits.) It wasn’t my thing, but hey! It might be yours. Go enjoy it if it is.

campeche mexico tourism

Have Margaritas Overlooking the Cathedral at Casa Viejo del Rio

Now THIS was the special nightlife experience I wanted in Campeche. Casa Viejo del Rio is a restaurant with the best view in town, overlooking the cathedral. I’ve heard that the food isn’t the greatest, so we just went for drinks. Specifically, margaritas. And the view was dynamite.

You’ll want to get one of the balcony seats for the best view (and it’s probably best to go early to scoop one up) — but the inside is fabulously furnished with brightly colored vintage furniture, almost like a fever dream.

campeche mexico tourism

Watch the Light Show on the Square

Every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday at 8:00 PM, there is a free light and sound show on Plaza de la Independencia, the main square of Campeche. For 30 minutes, you’ll be treated to a dazzling story about Campeche’s history and natural environment. It’s all about the music and visuals with no spoken words, so you’ll understand it even if you don’t speak Spanish.

I loved the community feel with everybody coming out to enjoy the free show on the square! Get here early for a good vantage point — at least 30 minutes beforehand.

campeche mexico tourism

Have a fancy coffee at Cafe Sotavento

Cafe Sotavento is absolutely gorgeous, furnished with colorful, interesting decor. The setting is joyfully radiant, and I went crazy over the mismatched tile floors. I want floors like that in my future Mexican home someday!

Cafe Sotavento serves coffee in a variety of upscale ways, whether it’s in the beaker or French press or Japanese vacuum coffee maker. They also do nice lattes.

Full disclosure: we had breakfast here but didn’t enjoy our food very much. I would recommend coming here just for a coffee.

campeche mexico tourism

Visit the Forts of Campeche

There are two forts in Campeche: Fuerte San José, pictured above, and Fuerte San Miguel. San José is particularly spectacular with its inlaid yellow entryway.

Both of these forts are on the outskirts of Campeche — San José to the north, San Miguel to the south — so I recommend visiting them on your way out of town. They give you great views over the Gulf of Mexico and let you imagine how the Campechanos felt as they defended their city from pirates.

campeche mexico tourism

Day Trips from Campeche, Mexico

If you’re spending a few days in Campeche, there are some nearby day trip options that you can enjoy. Here are some of them:

Edzna. These Mayan ruins are one of the most popular day trips from Campeche. The ruins are in great condition and you can climb the pyramid. And the crowds? A fraction of what you’d see at Chichen Itza.

You can book an organized day trip from Campeche to Edzná here.

Playa Bonita. This is one of the nicest Gulf beaches close to Campeche, with soft white sand and turquoise water.

Becal . This small town is famous for its Panama hat production, each carefully woven from palms. If you want to pick up a real Panama hat, this is where to do it.

And don’t forget Hecelchakán. That cochinita is fabulous.

campeche mexico tourism

If you want a BIG excursion from Campeche — and I’m talking a huge, remote expedition that will make you feel like Indiana Jones — consider venturing to Calakmul. Calakmul is the largest Mayan city in Mexico and home to two of the tallest pyramids in the country.

Calakmul can technically be done in a long day trip, but I wouldn’t recommend it — just because you can , it doesn’t mean you should ! The drive from Campeche to Xpujil is about four hours alone, and the ruins are further in from there. This part of Mexico has very little development. There are no gas stations in the enormous Calakmul Biosphere Reserve, so fill WAY up before you go.

Make this a big, special trip, and be sure to plan ahead with food and water.

You can book a (long, 12-hour) organized day trip to Calakmul here if you REALLY want to do it in a day trip.

campeche mexico tourism

How much time do you need in Campeche?

When we went to Campeche, it was just for an overnight — we set out early from Mérida in the morning and came back the next day. And honestly, that was fine to get enough of the lay of the land. If you’re short on time, an overnight will suit you just fine, but two nights will allow you to see a bit more.

If you’re traveling more slowly, you can absolutely add more time on to Campeche — but I don’t think it’s essential.

campeche mexico tourism

Where to Stay in Campeche, Mexico

In Campeche I stayed at the Hotel Plaza Colonial , a top-rated mid-range hotel on the edge of the old city. This was a nice, centrally located hotel with ice-cold air conditioning and a pool. It made a great base for our time in Campeche.

Just one small complaint — the “double bed” was actually a full-sized bed (smaller than a queen). This is actually common in Mexico, a country where people are on the shorter side, so I recommend verifying the size of the bed before you book.

If you’re looking for a more high-end place to stay, you can’t beat the Hacienda Puerto Campeche , with its elegant rooms, pools, and restaurants, including the famous hammocks strung across an indoor pool.

Neighborhood-wise, I recommend staying within the old city, or very close by. This is where you’ll be spending most of your time.

Find deals on Campeche accommodation here .

campeche mexico tourism

How to Get to Campeche, Mexico

There is an international airport in Campeche, but it’s very small, ordinarily serving flights from Mexico City. I find that the lowest fares tend to be on Skyscanner.

The easiest way to get to Campeche is to drive down from Mérida in Yucatán state, which is a much bigger city and transit hub. Campeche is about two hours and fifteen minutes from Mérida, and you may have to stop at a brief checkpoint when you enter Campeche state.

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.

If you’re traveling by public transportation, there are frequent buses that run between Mérida and Campeche.

Kate in front of a pyramid in Uxmal, Mexico.

Where to Go After Campeche, Mexico

If you’re on a longer road trip in Mexico, there are some logical points to include before and after Campeche. If you’re heading north, Mérida is the obvious option; if you’re heading south, you’re likely heading for the ruins of Palenque, the city of Villahermosa, or even the beaches of Tabasco.

On our drive back to Mérida, we stopped briefly at the UNESCO World Heritage-listed ruins of Uxmal and then visited Cenote San Ignacio , a small resort complex in the town of Chocholá, outside Mérida.

The cenote itself is a bit small and underwhelming, but the restaurant is SUPERB and served the best sopa de lima I have EVER had. It’s worth visiting for the soup alone!

Read More: Ultimate Guide to 50+ Best Cenotes in Mexico

Yellow colonial building in Mexico

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.

campeche mexico tourism

Campeche is waiting for you!

I had a really nice weekend in Campeche, and I hope you do as well! This city is truly a lovely place that could use some more international tourism. You’ll love it for the colors alone.

Planning a Trip to Mexico:

  • Solo Female Travel in Mexico: Is it Safe?
  • What NOT to Do in Mexico
  • Two Weeks in Mexico: The BEST Yucatan Road Trip Itinerary

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

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Cool Things to do in Campeche, Mexico

Looking for the best things to do in Campeche, Mexico? Discover the city’s top attractions and more. 

Often referred to as Mexico’s ‘Rainbow City’, Campeche is a colourful city located on the Yucatan Peninsula. 

Look, I’ll level with you. Campeche is not one of Mexico’s most popular travel destinations – like Cancun and Tulum .

It’s  often overlooked by tourists, which is a shame as Campeche is an underrated city with plenty to offer those who do visit.

Among Campeche’s many attractions are its well-preserved historic centre, colonial architecture, and Mayan ruins, along with its lively markets and tasty cuisine (this is Mexico after all). 

In this Campeche travel guide, you’ll find all the top activities to add to your Mexico itinerary . Below are recommendations on the best things to do, where to stay, when to visit, and more. 

Top Tip: If you’re looking for excellent accommodation near many of Campeche’s top attractions, check out the luxurious, five-star Hotel Boutique Casa Don Gustavo .  

Top 5 Things to do in Campeche

Stroll around the streets of the centro historico .

Campeche

One of the best things to do in Campeche is to stroll around its UNESCO-listed city centre. 

Unlike most Mexican cities, Campeche’s city centre is quiet, with an intimate, small-town feel. 

Take a peek at the many colonial buildings and structures housed within Campeche’s fortified city walls, pastel-coloured houses and bright yellow churches included. There are also some grand colonial mansions built by families made wealthy by New World trading. 

Visit the Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Cathedral

Our Lady Cathedral

Overlooking the main square in the city with its two soaring bell towers is the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception (also known as the Campeche Cathedral). It is an incredible colonial-style church dating back to as early as 1540. The building was only finished in 1760 following the completion of the flawless west steeple, “La Española”.

Given its long history, the church boasts awe-inspiring architecture that draws on both baroque and neoclassical influences. Contrasting this is an elegantly understated interior that’s brought to life at night with breathtaking illuminations. 

Our Lady Cathedral

Entry to the Campeche Cathedral is free. But, there are a few nearby points of interest that are worth the small admission fee. This includes the Chapel of Jesús Nazareno and the Museum of Sacred Art next door. Here you’ll find impressive collections of artworks and religious objects.

Dine on Calle 59 (Rincon Colonial)

Campeche

Campeche is one of the most vibrant cities in Mexico, and one of the places where this is particularly evident is in Calle 59. Along this street are many historic houses and facades painted in a rainbow of colours. 

What draws in many tourists and locals is the fact that this street is only accessible to pedestrians. As such, you can walk around freely without having to worry about traffic. 

While walking down this colourful street, you will pass by some of the best restaurants and cafés in Campeche. Many of the places have great deals and happy hours that go on throughout the day. 

But what makes dining on Calle 59 truly special is the outdoor seating along the lively cobblestone street. For those wondering where to eat, visit Luz de Luna for its local flavours or Chocol Ha café for its chocolate tamales. 

If you’re visiting at night, stop by Rincon Colonial. This is a lively Cuban-style drinking establishment on Calle 59. It served as the location for the 2001 movie, Original Sin, which starred Antonio Banderas and Angelina Jolie. Here you can join delicious botanas (appetizers) accompanied by a local beer. 

Walk Down the Malecon

Campeche

One of the most popular spots in Campeche to visit amongst locals and tourists alike is the Malécon. It is a picturesque promenade that runs for around 6.4 kilometres (4 miles) along the Gulf of Mexico. 

This charming public space has plenty of walking paths passing by a series of monuments, including the statue of Bride of the Sea and the large, colourful Campeche sign. For those hoping to grab that perfect Campeche Instagram pic, this is the ideal spot. 

Along the Malecon, you will also see many people walking, cycling, or having picnics. It is also one of the best places in the city to watch the sunset. 

And across from the promenade on the opposite side are many lovely restaurants with oceanfront views. So after your leisurely walk along the Malecon, be sure to stop by for a delicious meal or beverage. 

Explore the Edzna Ruins

Edzna

One of the most impressive examples of late Maya architecture in the Americas is the Edzna Ruins. The historic site was inhabited since 400 BC. But unlike other Maya ruins whose demise came at the hands of the Spaniards, Edzna was mysteriously abandoned in 1500. 

The Edzna Ruins is also not as famed as other sites such as Palenque, Chichen Itza, and Tikal. However, its lesser-known status means fewer tourists, offering a serenity that adds to the magical atmosphere of these ancient ruins. 

The Edzna Ruins are often referred to as the “House of the Itzaes (Echo)”. You can hear the echoes in several parts of the site. Another outstanding feature is the impressive collection of buildings that culminates in the Pyramid of the Five Floors. 

The Edzna Ruins is a great choice for a fun day trip from Campeche. But to truly experience the beauty of this site, join the evening light shows for a mesmerizing experience. These shows take place throughout the year and start at 8 pm in summer and 7 pm in winter. 

Brilliant Things to See & Do in Campeche During the Day 

Below are some of the best things to do in Campeche city during the day. From museums to white-sand beaches, there is something fun for everyone. 

Wander the Old City Wall 

Campeche

In its heyday, Campeche was constantly under pirate attack. This includes the famous Sack of Campeche in 1663, which was the biggest pirate attack in history. The attack forced the King of Spain to construct Campeche’s now famed walls to protect the city.

The over two kilometres (1.24 miles) long and eight meters (26 feet) wide walls took more than 50 years to construct. The mighty walls made the city of Campeche practically impregnable. But fortunately, the city never really fell under attack again following this. 

Because of this, seven of the eight bastions of the wall remain today. Each of these houses a small museum, such as the Museum of Mayan Culture and the pirate museum. You could spend an entire day visiting all the museums within these ancient walls.

Visit the Archaeological Museum at Fort San Miguel 

Campeche

Guarding the city of Campeche are two fortresses: Fuerte San Miguel and Fuerte San José el Alto. 

These structures were put up by the Spanish to offer protection against pirate invasion and other threats. To this day, these two colonial forts continue to stand tall atop a small hill overlooking the Gulf of Mexico. 

Between the two forts, Fuerte de San Miguel offers a better view. It also includes an impressive drawbridge, moat, and canons. The fort dates back to the 18th century and boasts stunning architecture. 

While here, be sure to stop by the intriguing Museo Arqueológico de Campeche. In the museum, you will discover many Mayan pieces of art from Calakmul and Edzná, including burial art, jade masks, and more. Also included in the exhibit are various treasures and jewellery found at sea. 

Soak Up the Sun on a Campeche Beach

If you’re visiting Campeche during the summer, you cannot skip out on a trip to one of the coastal city’s beautiful beaches. 

One of the most notable beaches is Playa Bonita, and it is ideally located just 20 minutes from Downtown Campeche. It also ticks all the boxes for a thrilling day by the sea. This includes soft, white-sand shores, plenty of free cabañas, and calm waters perfect for swimming. 

For more great beaches, head to the sleepy town of Sabancuy. Here you will find several beautiful, unspoilt beaches located on the coastline between Campeche and Ciudad del Carmen. These beaches pass by rainforests and limestone cliffs, providing some of the most breathtaking views. 

Taste Some Delicious Food at the Mercado 

Tlacaloula Market

If you’re in Campeche and uncertain about what to eat, take a trip to the Mercado. It is a large indoor market situated near the Baluarte de San Pedro. Mercado is home to dozens of restaurant and bar stalls serving a wide selection of foods and beverages.

Some especially delicious pickups include the regional tamales, tortillas, and tranca – a baguette stuffed with roast pork. And to wash it all down, try a refreshing agua de lima (a sweet lemon drink). 

Tacos in Mexico

The Campeche Mercado is also a great place to shop for other items like fruits, vegetables, and flowers. If you’re looking to visit the market, it is open every day from 7  am to 5 pm. 

Visit Centro Cultural Casa No 6

Campeche House 6

To catch a glimpse into how Campeche’s upper-class once lived, be sure to pay a visit to Centro Cultural Casa No 6. The building now serves as a museum that aims to teach visitors more about the city’s changing fortunes and global trade relations through the furniture on display.

A visit to this 19th-century mansion is like taking a step back in time. And at a small fee, it is well worth it. Here you will find a peaceful courtyard along with a bedroom, living room, and kitchen. Each of these rooms boasts old Cuban-style furniture. In addition to the rooms, there is also a small boutique bookshop on-site. 

While the Centro Cultural Casa No 6 is beautiful, one could get a feel of Campeche’s pre-revolutionary era by walking into any of the local houses in the area. This speaks to how well the town has preserved its heritage.

Marvel at the Museo de la Arquitectura Maya Baluarte

A must-visit attraction in Campeche, Mexico, is The Museo de Arquitectura Maya Baluarte. Located right inside the wall near Independence Plaza, the museum houses an impressive collection of Maya artefacts. 

Included in the collection are pieces from various Mayan ruins, such as Edzna, Becan, and Santa Rosa Xtampak, to name a few. However, the highlight is a stunning jade funerary mask from the kingdom of Calakmul. 

The museum also has rooms full of stelae. A spectacular feature of the Museo de Arquitectura Maya especially is that it includes English explanations for every artefact. So for English speakers, this is a great place to learn about the rich Mayan culture and history.

After viewing the fascinating artefacts, be sure to head up to the top of the old city wall that houses this small museum. From here, enjoy sweeping views of Campeche’s old city. 

Relax at the Xmuch’haltun Botanical Garden

Campeche

Situated inside the Santiago Bastion and surrounded by the old city walls is the Xmuch’haltun Botanical Garden. The name of this garden means “water that springs from the earth” in the Mayan language. This is fitting as the garden plays host to a lush variety of tropical plants. 

Throughout the garden are signs that inform visitors of the plants and their uses. Many of the plants were used in Mayan medicines. Others were used for dyeing fabrics and thatching homes. 

At the heart of the garden, you’ll see a beautiful fountain that feeds into several canals that irrigate the plants. This tranquil space provides a lovely contrast to the large colonial-era fort that has protected the area for centuries.

For those wanting to visit the Xmuch’haltun Botanical Garden, it is open daily from 8 am to 8 pm. Admission is around 25 pesos ($0.50 USD) per person. 

Cool Things to See & Do in Campeche at Night

Campeche Night

Campeche is more laidback when compared to some of Mexico’s other cities. However, there is still plenty of fun to be had once the sun goes down. 

Below are some of the best things to do in Campeche at night.  

See the Night Illumination Show at Puerta de la Tierra 

From 1732, Puerta de Tierra served as the main entrance to Campeche. Today, it is no longer the main gate to the city. However, it remains a must-see landmark for those visiting.

You can explore Puerta de Tierra with a tour from the ocean aboard a real pirate ship. To get the most out of your trip, it is recommended that you visit the landmark at night. Every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from 8 pm, there is an incredible nighttime light show. 

In addition to the light show, visitors can enjoy  fireworks, a pirate show, a Spanish history lesson, and a night walk along the city walls. For those seeking a fun night out in Campeche’s old town, a trip to Puerta de Tierra will not disappoint. 

Drink at the Best Bars in Campeche

It would be totally rude to visit Campeche without checking out its laidback night-time scene. While plenty of the best restaurants and bars are situated on Calle 59, there’s an abundance of cool spots throughout the city. 

Native is an idyllic rooftop spot, ideal for enjoying a margarita or two as the sun sets, while the likes of Homero Taberna and Barko 59 are cosy boltholes where you can grab a craft beer as you chow down on hearty Mexican grub.

What to do in Campeche, Mexico: Practical Tips for Your Trip

Campeche

To ensure you get the most out of your visit to Campeche, here are some important things to know before you go. 

Where is Campeche in Mexico?

Campeche is in the southeast region of the country on the Yucatán Peninsula. The port city also sits before the Gulf of Mexico. So, you can expect some incredible views.

How Long to Visit Campeche? 

Campeche is a fairly small city, so a two-day trip is often enough. However, extending your stay to three or more days has its benefits too. This will provide you with enough time to comfortably visit the majority of the city’s top attractions. 

Best Time to Visit Campeche, Mexico?

The best time to visit Campeche is January and February. During this time, average temperatures fall around (25ºC) 77ºF. The weather from March to April is also great, but it is much hotter and more humid. With so many spectacular beaches, this is often not a problem.  

For more information, check out my guide on when to go to Mexico . 

Where Should I Stay in Campeche? 

For those who do decide to stop by this historic city, you will be welcomed with some excellent accommodation options . Below are some top picks. 

Top Tip: With fewer accommodation options, the best places to stay in Campeche can often get booked up, especially during the warmer months. As such, it is best to book well in advance. 

Gamma Campeche Malecon (Mid-Range) 

Gamma Malecon

This stunning accommodation is ideally located right on the Malecon, Campeche’s popular seafront promenade. As such, you can expect incredible ocean views from your room. Additionally, the hotel features free WiFi, an outdoor pool, and an on-site restaurant and café where you can enjoy a tasty meal and live music. 

Check Rates and Availability for Gamma Campeche Malecon

Hacienda Puerta Campeche (Luxury)

Hacienda Puerta

This five-star boutique hotel offers guests comfortable accommodation inside a restored 17th-century mansion. Notable features include a spa, indoor and outdoor pools, and incredible Mayan-style rooms. The hotel is also centrally located and just 700 meters from the famed Campeche Cathedral. 

Check Rates and Availability for Hacienda Puerta Campeche Discover more gorgeous places to stay in Campeche

Things to do in Campeche, Mexico: Map

Looking for More Mexico Travel Guides and Tips?

  • Mexico Travel Guide 
  • 2 Weeks in Mexico Travel Itinerary 
  • The Best Things to do in Merida

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Things to do in Campeche, Mexico

I’m Julianna Barnaby - a professional travel writer and geek extraordinaire. I started The Discoveries Of to help you to discover the best of new destinations from around the world.

Discovering new places is a thrill - whether it’s close to home, a new country or continent, I write to help you explore more and explore differently.

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The Best Things to Do in the City of Campeche, Mexico

Art aficionados will love the statues by Leonora Carrington in Campeche, Mexico

March along the malecón boardwalk, delve into Mayan history, and head off to hush-hush islands from this Unesco-listed Yucatán hub.

With a fascinating maritime past, a Unesco-listed center and easy access to many of the fascinating attractions on the Yucatán peninsula, it’s a wonder indeed why Campeche remains one of the most under-the-radar destinations in Mexico . All the better, though, for those visitors who do schedule a visit to this richly historic port. Whether it’s exploring the colorful colonial streets or day-tripping to nearby sights, there’s more than enough things to do to warrant a trip to Campeche. Read on for the best.

1. Travel back to the time of the ancient Maya

Archaeological site, Historical Landmark, Architectural Landmark

Visitors in front of the Edificio de los Cinco Pisos building at Gran Acropolis in Edzna Mayan Archeological site, Campeche State, Mexico, Central

While the archaeological site of Edzná doesn’t get the same attention as some, it remains one of the most important examples of late classic Maya architecture anywhere in the Americas. It’s an impressive collection of buildings, which culminates in the spectacular Piramide de Los Cinco Pisos (Five-Level Pyramid). The site’s lesser-known status means fewer, if any, crowds, and a serenity that really adds to the magic of these ancient ruins. Plus, it’s all less than a one-hour drive from Campeche center.

2. Spend the day on the beach at Playa Bonita

Natural Feature

Campeche certainly can’t compete with its Caribbean cousins when it comes to a scenic sandy coastline, but it can still more than hold its own. Around a 20-minute drive from Downtown Campeche, Playa Bonita is the closest proper beach to the port and ticks all the boxes for a day by the sea. There’s a small entrance fee, though plenty of free cabañas, shingly sand and a shoreline that gently slopes into usually calm waters.

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4. Take a sunset stroll along the Malecón de Campeche

Architectural Landmark

Denkmal Mundo Maya von Jorge Marin, Uferpromenade El Malecon, Campeche, Mexiko

Almost as much as sitting in the zócalo , locals love a leisurely stroll along the malecón . In Campeche, it’s a lovely long waterfront promenade that runs for miles along the shores of Bay of Campeche, which is part of the Gulf of Mexico. It’s the perfect spot for some early-morning exercise, such as jogging, skating or cycling along its length, which takes you past palm trees, the occasional antique cannon and a huge Mexican flag fluttering from a tall pole. Arrive around dusk for spectacular sunsets.

5. Give praise at the Catedral de la Inmaculada Concepción

Church, Cathedral, Architectural Landmark

Campeche, Mexico. Independence Plaza in Old Town of San Francisco de Campeche, Yucatan heritage.

With its two soaring towers overlooking the main square in the city, Campeche Cathedral (or Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception) is a quintessentially colonial-style church and well worth a visit. The architecture is a fusion of baroque and neoclassical influences, while elegantly understated interiors are beautifully illuminated during the evening. Entry is free, though there’s a small fee for entry to a museum annex, housing a collection of sacred artworks and precious religious objects.

6. Wander the streets of the Centro Histórico

Colonial Spanish houses, Calle 59 pedestrian area in Campeche, Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico

A Unesco-listed heritage site, the whole of Campeche city center is a wonderfully preserved slice of colonial history dating back as far as the 16th century. Take some time to walk around the fortified city walls, built to help ward off the regular pirate assaults and a rare example of surviving colonial military architecture. Inside these walls, a grid system of streets is lined with wonderful examples of colonial mansions, built by families made wealthy by New World trading.

7. Take in spectacular coastal views from the San Miguel Fort

Fort San Miguel, overlooking Campeche from the south, houses the Campeche Regional Museum displaying prehispanic antiquities.

Perched high up on a hill on the western outskirts of Campeche, the San Miguel Fort is one of two such defensive positions flanking the city. You’re free to explore most of this impressive early-19th-century fortress and take in spectacular coastal panoramas from the top. There’s also an excellent museum housed within its walls, exploring the ancient Mayan civilization that once occupied the region, including an extensive collection of stone carvings, jewelry and ceremonial objects.

8. Day trip to a sleepy coastal island for a wealth of wildlife

Isla Aguada, Campeche, Mexico

The dramatic coastal geography just south of Campeche includes a huge lagoon, a long peninsula and Isla Aguada – a small fishing port with a wonderfully uncrowded stretch of sandy beach. It’s a couple of hours’ drive from Campeche, with superb seascape views along the whole journey. Sunset boat tours are the best way to witness the extraordinary abundance of wildlife here, from a large heron population to dolphins.

Looking for somewhere to stay? Book into one of the best hotels in Campeche , or, for somewhere further afield, book yourself a room at one of the best hotels in Mérida . There are many reasons why you should visit Campeche – inspire your Yucatán itinerary with these unmissable Mayan sites . And don’t miss the best restaurants in Mérida either.

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Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

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22 Awesome Things To Do In Campeche In 2023 (With Videos)

campeche mexico tourism

So you are thinking of visiting Mexico’s Rainbow City?  You’ll be happy to know that Campeche was one of the most memorable stops during our 70-day adventure throughout the Yucatan Peninsula! There are so many fantastic things to do in Campeche and the surrounding area that you will be sure to have a great time in this colorful and friendly city.

Campeche was the first of the Yucatan Peninsula’s famous colonial cities that we visited. And we have to say that we fell in love. We spent over two weeks discovering the wonderful attractions in this off-the-radar destination. We learned that Campeche is much more than the colorful UNESCO World Heritage downtown for which the city is famous. It is also the perfect base to experience all things Yucatecan – from gorgeous colonial buildings to epic Mayan ruins and beautiful cenotes!

This post will fill you in on all the unmissable things to do in Campeche.  From essential stops inside the beautiful city center to off-the-beaten-path day trips, we share everything you need to start your adventure in one of the region’s best destinations.

What Is Campeche Best Known For?

Is campeche safe for tourists, how many days do you need in campeche, how to get to campeche, the 22 best things to do in campeche, mexico.

  • 1. Wander Through The Colorful Streets Of Campeche's Old City
  • 2. Watch Life Pass By At Campeche's Independence Square
  • 3. Get A Glimpse Of Campeche's Opulent Past At Centro Cultural Casa No. 6

4. Enter The Beautiful Santa Iglesia Cathedral

  • 5. Climb On Top Of Campeche's Fortified Walls
  • 6. Go On A Walking Tour To Learn All About Campeche's Amazing History

7. Learn About Campeches Pirate-Infested History At The Palace Museum

  • 8. Take A Break From Walking And Ride Campeche's Trolly (Tranvia)
  • 9. Grab A Cold Beer At Campeche's Best Cantina

10. Keep The Party Going On Calle 59 (59th Street)

11. shop for artisanal products & traditional clothing at casa tukulna, 12. try some traditional campechano foods, 13. try unique ice creams at la brocha (but avoid the cheese ice cream).

  • 14. Enjoy Sunset From Campeche's Beautiful Malecon
  • 15. Join Fellow Travellers At The Malecon's Nightly Laser Show

16. Visit Fort San Miguel For Beautiful Views & Mayan History

  • 17. Explore Campeche's Frenetic Local Market

18. Explore The Incredible Mayan City Of Edzna

19. make the trip to calakmul: the most epic mayan city in mexico, 20. discover the stunning miguel colorado eco-park, 21. see how locals craft panama hats in caves in the town of becal, 22. relax on the beaches of isla aguada, where to stay in campeche, final thoughts: is campeche worth visiting.

Estimated reading time: 28 minutes

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Incredible things to do in Campeche

What To Know About Campeche, Mexico Before Visiting

San Francisco de Campeche , or simply Campeche, is famous for its beautiful city center. The colorful colonial buildings are responsible for its perfect nickname – the Rainbow City. Designated as a UNESCO world heritage site, Campeche is also known for the walled fortress surrounding the historic center and its pirate-infested history.

But don’t make the mistake of thinking that Campeche is just a cute colonial town. It is also the capital of the state of Campeche, and those that go beyond the touristic center will discover a city filled with authentic local life.

Add to that the surrounding area filled with epic day trip opportunities, and you have a perfect place to get away from the Yucatan Peninsula’s more developed destinations. Campeche is still being overlooked as a tourist destination, so visit before the word gets out!

Can’t Wait To Check Out What To Do In Campeche, Mexico? Just Click Play!

The Yucatan Peninsula is one of the safest regions in all of Mexico, and Campeche is definitely no exception. We asked our walking-tour guide about safety in Campeche – he literally told us that we could be out at 2 am dancing in the middle of the street with all of our camera gear and nothing would happen to us.

While we didn’t test his theory, we definitely got the vibe that Campeche is a relaxed and extremely safe seaside town. You don’t need to take any extra precautions when visiting Campeche.

3 or 4 full days is a good amount of time to see Campeche’s most important sites . This also gives you the flexibility to go on a couple of day trips to beautiful Mayan ruins or nearby beaches.

3 days may not seem like a lot of time, but many of the best things to do in Campeche are easy to explore on the same day. Especially the attractions in the old city.

Getting to Campeche by bus:

Honestly speaking, Campeche isn’t the most convenient place to get to. It is located on the opposite side of the peninsula from many of the Yucatan’s more popular destinations like Cancun, Playa del Carmen and Tulum.

That said, making the track to Campeche is a doable and worthwhile adventure.

  • Merida to Campeche : 4.5 hours
  • Cancun to Campeche : 8.5 hours
  • Playa del Carmen to Campeche : 8 hours

Getting to Campeche by plane:

The closest international airport to Campeche is located in Merida, though you will find it more difficult to find convenient flights to Merida than to the region’s largest airport – Cancun International Airport.

This post is organized into the following sections to help you easily plan your Campeche itinerary:

Best Things To Do In Campeche’s Historic Center

What to do in campeche outside the city walls.

  • Perfect Day Trips From Campeche

1. Wander Through The Colorful Streets Of Campeche’s Old City

things to do in Campeche UNESCO

  • Price : free!
  • Hours : you can access the historic center 24 hours day, but it has the most energy after 5 pm.
  • Time needed : 1 – 2 hours.
  • WOTW rating : 5/5

Inside the walled fortress is Campeche’s pastel-colored historic center . The old city is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which helps fund the maintenance of Campeche’s beautiful colonial buildings. The UNESCO designation also ensures that no two buildings next to each other are the same color. Because that just wouldn’t be ‘rainbowy’ enough.

The colonial vibes in Campeche are strong! So wandering around the colorful streets while admiring the historic buildings is one of the essential things to do in Campeche . Beautiful churches and cathedrals dot the old city, and colorful colonial homes make everything unbelievably photogenic. We promise you won’t be able to resist taking your camera out to capture all the picture-perfect buildings!

  • Location : Puerta de Mar & Puerta de Tierra are the main entrances to Campeche’s old city.
WOTW Tip : Calle 59 (59th Street) has arguably the most impressive and well-maintained colonial buildings in Campeche’s old city.

Curious about the other colorful cities in Mexico? Read these posts next:

  • Merida : 25 Of The Best Things To Do In Merida, Mexico (With Videos)
  • Valladolid : 23 Magical Things To Do In Valladolid (With Video)
  • Oaxaca City : 35 Things Nobody Tells You About Oaxaca City, Mexico
  • Colonial Cities : Discover If Valladolid, Merida or Campeche Is Right For You (With Videos)

2. Watch Life Pass By At Campeche’s Independence Square

Parque Principal What To Do In Campeche

  • Price : free to visit!
  • Hours : open 34 hours, but more active in the late afternoons.
  • Time needed : 30 – 60 minutes.
  • WOTW rating : 3.5/5

As far as central squares go, Independence Square (Plaza de la Independencia) isn’t the most vibrant. But it is still a great base to start exploring some of Campeche’s most important attractions. It is also a relaxed spot to sit back and watch life pass by for a little while.

Like all good central squares in Mexico, Independence Square is lined with cozy park benches . We recommend grabbing a seat to admire the plaza’s historic surroundings and watch the children chasing pigeons. Keep your eyes peeled for the ‘marquesita’ cart so you can munch on one of the Yucatan’s favorite street foods while soaking up the vibes.

Once you are done relaxing in Independence Square, head over to the next place on this list of things to do in Campeche – Centro Cultural Casa No. 6.

  • Location : Independence Square, Campeche, Mexico.

3. Get A Glimpse Of Campeche’s Opulent Past At Centro Cultural Casa No. 6

Best Things To Do In Campeche Centro Cultural No. 6

  • Price : 20 MXP ($1 US).
  • Hours : 9 am – 8:30 pm.
  • Time needed : 30 minutes.
  • WOTW rating : 4/5

Facing Plaza de la Independencia is Centro Cultural Casa No. 6 , a restored mansion from Campeche’s glory days. Enter this beautiful old home to go back in time and see how Campeche’s elites lived during the city’s glory years.

This gorgeous mansion features a beautiful courtyard with the obligatory fountain , colonial-era furniture and artwork. You can also see what the kitchens would have looked like in the 18th century and how they used different native plants to make their cookware. Cool!

Just a heads up, following local traditions, family members that resided in the house were buried in the garden next to the kitchen. Maybe the house is haunted!?

  • Location : Centro Cultural Casa No. 6, Campeche, Mexico
WOTW Tip : ask for the guided tour or stop by on this highly-rated walking tour of Campeche to get the most out of your experience.

Best Things To Do In Campeche Mexico Cathedral

  • Price : free.
  • Hours : 7 am – 9 pm.
  • Time needed : 15 minutes.

The most iconic building in Campeche’s old city is the beautiful cathedral . This old cathedral is officially known as Parroquia de Nuestra Señora de la Inmaculada Concepción Santa Iglesia Catedral. What a mouth full! We’ll just call her Santa Iglesia – which translates to St. Church. Perfect…

Santa Iglesia technically does not fit the definition of a cathedral. It’s too small and doesn’t have the cross-shaped floor plan typical of cathedrals. Nevertheless, it is still a great spot to pop in to appreciate the elegant decorations. Also, make sure to pass by at night to admire it when fully illuminated.

  • Location : Santa Iglesia Cathedral, Campeche, Mexico.

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5. Climb On Top Of Campeche’s Fortified Walls

Things to do in Campeche Climb The City Walls

  • Price : 15 MXP ($0.75 US).
  • Hours : 9 am – 9 pm.

The Spanish colonial city of Campeche was under attack from pirates for centuries! Eventually they convinced the motherland (Spain) to construct a fortress around the city to protect it from the constant threat from these rotten scoundrels. Ironically, the construction of the beautiful fort coincided with the end of the golden age of piracy.

But while the fortress was never valuable for deterring pirates , it is still a great place to walk around while visiting Campeche. You have views of the historic center from the top of the city walls. No visit to the Rainbow City is complete without climbing these walls, so make sure to check it out when you are in Campeche!

  • Location : there’s someone selling tickets to climb the old fortress walls at Puerta de Tierra.
WOTW Tip #1 : try not to visit during the middle of the day when the sun is at its peak. It gets so hot in Campeche, and there is little relief from the sun on top of the city walls. WOTW Tip #2 : don’t forget to ring the bell! It’s totally fine to ring the bell to announce that you have conquered the city. Or to announce to the attendant that you are ready to leave.

You may also be interested in…

  • Yucatan Peninsula: 30 Things Nobody Tells You About Visiting The Yucatan
  • Cozumel : Everything You Need To Know Before Visiting Cozumel (With Videos)
  • Bacalar : 21 Epic Things To Do In Bacalar: The Costa Maya’s Magical City (With Videos)
  • Isla Holbox : 10 Things Nobody Tells You About Isla Holbox (Why We Didn’t Like It)

6. Go On A Walking Tour To Learn All About Campeche’s Amazing History

Things to do in Campeche walking tour

  • Price : $20 US.
  • Hours : 6 pm – 8 pm.
  • Time needed : 2 hours.

Overwhelmed by all of the historical sights in Campeche’s old city? Consider taking a guided tour through the historic downtown!

We had a wonderful time exploring Campeche on the guided walking tour. The guide is friendly and well-informed, and they can help you explore a number of the most important things to do in Campeche while also giving historical context along the way. It’s a total win!

  • Location : Santa Iglesia Cathedral is the meeting point.

Palace Museum Campeche Mexico

  • Hours : 10 am – 5 pm; closed Mondays.
  • Time needed : 1 hour.

I don’t know about you, but there’s something about pirates that fascinate me. If you can’t get enough of these dastardly criminals of the high seas, then definitely add Museo El Palacio (Palace Museum) to your Campeche itinerary.

This museum goes into how piracy and colonialism shaped Campeche’s history. The exhibits feature old pirate weapons, replicas of their ships, and beautiful artwork. And like many of the best things to do in Campeche, visiting this awesome museum is totally free! And it is air-conditioned. #bonuspoints

  • Location : Museo El Palacio, Campeche, Mexico.

8. Take A Break From Walking And Ride Campeche’s Trolly (Tranvia)

Campeche's Trolly

  • Price : 100 mxp ($5 US).
  • Hours : 12 – 7 pm.
  • Time needed : 60 minutes.

Wondering what to do in Campeche to escape the heat? Hop on the trolly bus to explore the city with the breeze blowing through your hair! We think these bus tours are underrated ways to see the city and learn a bit of history.

Campeche’s tranvia (trolly) gets you off your feet for a while as you cruise through parts of the city you may have missed otherwise. The 60-minute excursion takes you along the ‘malecon’ (waterfront promenade) and the Santa Ana neighborhood. It also stops in front of the famous Iglesia San Roman (St. Roman Church). This church is home to a rare Italian crucifix featuring a black Jesus.

  • Location : Campeche Trolly (Tranvia Campeche).
WOTW Tip : the information provided during the tour is in both English and Spanish, but it’s pretty difficult to hear with the sounds of the road and people talking. Your best bet is to enjoy the views and invent your own pirate history! ‘Look! That was Blackbeard’s favorite taco joint!’

9. Grab A Cold Beer At Campeche’s Best Cantina

Things to do in Campeche go to a cantina

  • Price : local beers are about $1.50 US.
  • Hours : 11 am – 9 pm; best time to be there for live music is between 3 – 5 pm.
  • Time needed : up to you. The more you drink the better the free snacks get 🙂

We have a soft spot for Mexico’s cantinas. Something about the no-frills charm and traditional music made us feel like we were immersing ourselves in an authentic part of a foreign culture. Conveniently for us, this aspect of Mexican culture involves ice cold beers and ‘free’ bar snacks!

Salon Rincon Colonial was one of our favorite cantinas in the Yucatan Peninsula! Go to cool down after checking out the historic center and enjoy the ‘botanas’ (free bar snacks) that come with every order. Level up your experience by asking the singers to serenade you with their favorite mariachi classics!

  • Location : Salon Rincon Colonial, Campeche, Mexico.

Things to do in Campeche Calle 59

  • Price : drink prices vary.
  • Hours : the outdoor seating starts to fill up after sundown; some places stay open until 3 am!
  • Time needed : your call drunky pants!

One of the best things to do in Campeche is to enjoy the festive atmosphere on Calle 59. This street is lined with bars and restaurants, so you can easily find a place to enjoy a night out. Whether you’re looking for a place to dance the night away or just relax with a few drinks, Calle 59 is the perfect spot to wind down after a day of exploring the city’s historical sites!

  • Location : Calle 59, Zona Centro Campeche.

Casa Tukulna Campeche Mexico

  • Price : vary.
  • Hours : 9 am – 8 pm.

Casa Tukulna is one of the prettiest shops we visited in the Peninsula. The shop showcases beautiful handicrafts, colorful hammocks, handmade Panama hats, traditional clothing, and more. The items are super high-quality and therefore more expensive than you might find in the local market.

Beware, this shop is very charming. Don’t blame us if you end up buying more than you came in for!

  • Location : Casa de Artesanias Tukulna, Campeche, Mexico.

Traditional Food In Campeche

  • Hours : 7 pm – 12 am; many restaurants are closed Mondays.

One of the best places to try regional Yucatecan food is Los Portales de San Francisco. Relax in the large outdoor seating area while relaxing with live music and the refreshing ocean breeze. Be sure to try some local favorites like panuchos or meriendas!

  • Location : Los Portales De San Francisco, Campeche, Mexico.
WOTW Tip : head to Marganazo Restaurant inside the city walls to try ‘queso de bola.’ This stuffed cheese dish is one of Campeche’s most iconic foods!

Save This Things To Do In Campeche, Mexico Post For Later!

Is Campeche, Mexico worth visiting?

  • Price : $2.75 per cone.
  • Hours : 12 pm – 11pm; closed Mondays.
  • Time needed : N/A
  • WOTW rating : 1.5/5 for the cheese ice cream.

La Brocha is somewhat of an institution in Campeche. They are known for their unique ice cream flavors, most notably ‘queso de bola.’ This cheese-flavored ice cream has actual bits of Dutch cheese in it. WHY???

I was hoping that the cheese ice cream would somehow be surprisingly delicious. But it tasted aggressively like cheese. But even if the cheese ice cream at La Brocha wasn’t the greatest, the other flavors are!

  • Location : La Brocha Helados, Campeche, Mexico.

14. Enjoy Sunset From Campeche’s Beautiful Malecon

Campeche Mexico Malecon

  • Hours : check for sunset times.

The malecon – or waterfront promenade – is an essential aspect of coastal towns throughout the Yucatan Peninsula. The best time to enjoy this comfortable spot is during one of the city’s beautiful sunsets. Trust us, you don’t want to forget to add this to your list of things to do in Campeche.

The malecon comes to life around sunset time. Walk around to admire the beautiful monuments as you watch the sun melt into the Gulf of Mexico. Upgrade your experience by stopping by La Brocha to grab an ice cream before heading to the waterfront. Because ice cream makes everything better!

  • Location : Malecon, Campeche, Mexico.

15. Join Fellow Travellers At The Malecon’s Nightly Laser Show

Campeche Mexico Lightshow

  • Hours : the light show happens everyday around 8 pm.
  • WOTW rating : 3/5

An excellent way to compliment your nighttime stroll on Campeche’s malecon is to check out the nightly light show . To be sure, this isn’t one of the most epic things to do in Campeche, but the displays of lasers and choreographed fountains are nicely done. If you aren’t sure what to do in Campeche at night, why not stop by the light show?

  • Location : Fountain Show On The Malecon, Campeche, Mexico.

Things To Do In Campeche Fort San Miguel

  • Price : 60 MXP ($3 US).
  • Hours : 8 am – 5 pm; closed Mondays.

Like many things in the Yucatan Peninsula, the Campeche Archeological museum showcases the region’s Mayan and Spanish influences . Climb to the top of San Miguel Fort to see sweeping views of Campeche and the Gulf of Mexico.

Once you are done trying to spot pirates from the fort, you can enter the museum to find exhibits featuring Mayan art and other items. Many of the artifacts were brought from Calakmul, the most important Mayan city in what is now the Yucatan Peninsula. Highlights include jade funeral masks and well-preserved statues of Mayan gods.

  • Location : Fort San Miguel & Campeche Archeological Museum .

17. Explore Campeche’s Frenetic Local Market

Campeche Mexico Local market

  • Price : free to explore.
  • Hours : 6 am – 8 pm.

Campeche’s local market is the first we visited that wasn’t geared to tourists. And we mean that in the best way possible! Mercado Campeche has everything you could ever want from a local Mexican market. Get lost to find local food stands selling Campeche’s favorite ‘trancas’ (large sandwiches), colorful produce and rows of fresh meats.

While it is not as massive as the market we explored while visiting Merida, Mercado Campeche is still beautiful chaos. Visit in the morning when Campechanos head there for breakfast to get the fully energized experience.

  • Location : Mercado Campeche, Santa Ana, Campeche.

Epic Day Trips From Campeche, Mexico

things to do in Campeche explore Edzna

  • Price : 80 MXP ($4 US); 500 MXP for the guided tour ($25 US).
  • Hours : 8 am – 5 pm.
  • Time needed : 2 – 3 hours (+ 45 minute drive, each way).

We freaking loved Edzna! It is easily one of our favorite Mayan cities that we visited during our trip. And it’s not because it’s more affordable and less busy than many other Mayan ruins (though those factors definitely contribute our feelings).

The real reason why we love Edzna is that it is amazing! You can understand the incredible ingenuity of the ancient Mayans by witnessing the astonishing acoustics between the main temple and the giant courtyard. See intricate carvings of the sun god, and climb the beautiful structures around the temple for unforgettable views across the ancient city. We think Edzna is a must-visit when coming to Campeche!

  • Location : Edzna Archeological Zone, Yucatan, Mexico.
WOTW Tip : the best way to get to Edzna is with the colectivo bus. You’ll have to wait until the bus fills up before it leaves, but it is a convenient and very affordable option for getting to Edzna.

Visiting Edzna Is One Of The Best Things To Do In Campeche! Click To See Why!

Calakmul Campeche Mexico

  • Price : 200 MXP ($10 US); 700 MXP for a guided tour ($35).
  • Time needed : 12 – 14 hours (includes 4.5 hour drive, each way)!
  • WOTW rating : N/A

The city of Calakmul was one of the largest and most important in the history of the ancient Mayas. It is a jewel of the Yucatan’s famous Mayan ruins. But there’s a catch. Calakmul is located in the middle of the Yucatan jungle!

Calakmul is a 4.5 hour drive from Campeche. Check out this guided tour from Campeche if you want to sleep on the bus instead of renting a car and figuring it out for yourself. The price includes transport, admission, and a guided tour.

You may not find a better time to explore Calakmul than when you are visiting Campeche. While the more relaxed option would be to spend a night in Xpujil, it is entirely possible to make the trip to Calakmul from Campeche.

  • Location : Calakmul Archeological Site, Yucatan, Mexico.

Miguel Colorado Campeche Cenote

  • Price : 300 MXP ($15 US).
  • Time needed : 2 – 4 hours (+ 1.5 hour drive, each way).

Want to take a day trip into the Yucatecan jungle to see families of howler monkeys and zipline 300 feet over a cenote? Of course you do! I’m pretty sure I completely blacked out during the ziplining – which you can admire in the video below. Good times!

Miguel Colorado was one of the most memorable experiences from our 70-day adventure throughout the Yucatan Peninsula. Beyond ziplining, the eco-park also includes kayaking in an open cenote and a jungle hike in the ticket price.

Do you love cenotes? Us too! Check out our post about 15 perfect (and swimmable) cenotes near Merida!

It felt like we had discovered a little piece of paradise that nobody else knew about. We were among only a handful of people at the entire park and swam and kayaked in a cenote that we had all to ourselves. Visiting Miguel Colorado is, without a doubt, one of the best things to do in Campeche!

  • Location : Miguel Colorado Eco Park, Campeche, Mexico.
WOTW Tip : while there apparently is a small restaurant at the eco-park, it is only open when it gets busy (in the weekends). Bring some snacks and plenty of water, especially if you are visiting during the week.

Epic Day Trip From Campeche To Miguel Colorado!

campeche mexico tourism

  • Price : the hats can range in price from $30 – $300 US, depending on the quality of the fiber.
  • Time needed : 1 – 3 hours (+ 1.5 hour drive, each way).

Yes, you read that headline correctly. The town of Becal is famous for making some of the world’s best Panama hats, and they make them inside of caves! The climate inside the caves makes the fibers more elastic and easier to work with.

If you are looking for things to do in Campeche that are beyond the obvious, then taking the 75-minute drive from Campeche to Becal might be exactly what you are looking for!

  • Location : Becal, Campeche, Mexico.

Isla Aguadas Campeche

  • Time needed : 1.5 hour drive from Campeche.

Exploring the Gulf of Mexico’s virgin beaches is one of the best things to do in Campeche. While Playa Bonita near Campeche is suitable if you just want a convenient beach outing, the beaches farther south will reward you with their less commercial appeal.

Do you love a good beach? Are you visiting Cozumel during your trip to the Yucatan? If you answered yes to both questions, then you have won the opportunity to learn about the best beaches in Cozumel!

You can also take a boat trip through the lagoon to spot dolphins and various species of seabirds . Who doesn’t love a good seabird!?

The town of Isla Aguada is also one of Mexico’s ‘Pueblos Magicos,’ and it is famous for its 100-year-old lighthouse and friendly locals!

  • Location : Isla Aguada, Campeche, Mexico.

You shouldn’t be surprised that this beautiful colonial city has an abundance of incredible places to stay. Pick your favorite colonial hotel from the highest-rated accommodations below to upgrade your trip to Campeche!

Campeche’s Luxurious High-End Hotels:

  • Hacienda Puerta Campeche (A Marriott Property): Known as Campeche’s most luxurious hotel, this beautiful property is a restored 17th-century mansion and features a pool built across 3 houses that has to be seen to be believed!
  • Hotel Boutique Casa Don Gustavo: exceptionally designed boutique hotel with original artwork and furniture. The elegant colonial building is in the middle of Campeche’s historic center.

Beautiful Mid-range Hotels In Campeche, Mexico:

  • Casa de Zari B&B: charming colonial-style hotel located a short walk from Campeche’s center.
  • Hotel Plaza Colonial: beautiful colonial hotel located right in the center of the old city. The property features colorful rooms and a swimming pool.

Best Lodging Options In Campeche For Budget Travelers:

  • Hotel Malecon: comfortable hotel located slightly outside of the center. The hotel has a pool and relaxing garden.
  • Hotel Edzna: a cozy and affordable hotel with tons of character.
WOTW Note : we travel long-term, so we look for places with a kitchen and space to work. This helps us save money while we are on the road. Take a look at our Airbnb in Campeche, Mexico! It wasn’t luxurious, but it was spacious, comfortable and conveniently located.

With its beautiful colonial architecture and charming atmosphere, Campeche is definitely worth visiting. In fact, we give our Campeche experience a million stars.

The people in this wonderful city are amazing, it has a nice relaxed vibe, and there are so many incredible things to do in Campeche! There aren’t many better places to experience a picture-perfect colonial city, epic Mayan ruins and off-the-beaten-path adventures.

So whether you’re looking for culture, history, or adventure, Campeche has it all. We hope you love the Rainbow City as much as we did!

Thanks for reading!

Have any questions about things to do in Campeche? Which one of these activities are you most excited to experience? Reach out in the comments or DM us on Instagram!

Discover more of beautiful Mexico here:

  • Cozumel Beaches : Discover 15 Perfect Cozumel Beaches For You To Visit (With Video)
  • Guadalajara : 33 Things To Know Before Visiting Guadalajara, Mexico
  • Punta Allen : How To Visit Punta Allen: The Riviera Maya’s Hidden Gem (With Video)
  • Yucatan Foods : 40 Of The Best Yucatecan Foods & Drinks To Try (With Videos)

Tired of reading? We have a full Yucatan Peninsula travel series on YouTube! Don’t forget to subscribe while you’re there to follow along with the adventures 🙂

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awesome things to do in Campeche Mexico

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campeche mexico tourism

Travel Mexico Solo

Campeche Mexico Travel

Your ultimate guide to campeche mexico, campeche mexico travel guide contents.

Getting There | Where to Stay  |  Things to Do  |  Campeche Tours  |  Travel Safety  | FAQ

Campeche Mexico travel guide

Where is campeche mexico located.

Campeche is located in southeastern Mexico, in the Yucatan Peninsula . This popular Mexico travel destination consists of three states — Quintana Roo , Yucatan and of course, Campeche.

Of the three, Campeche is the least-visited, which means lower prices and smaller crowds — though there’s no shortage of amazing sites in Campeche Mexico.

Campeche Mexico map

What’s the best airport for Campeche Mexico?

The most convenient way is to fly directly into Campeche International Airport (code: CAP), located just outside of Campeche City . As this is a small, regional airport, you’d have to catch a connecting flight through Mexico City International Airport (code: MEX).

Another option is to fly into Merida International Airport (code: MID), located in neighboring Yucatan state, and then make the two-hour drive from  Mérida in your rental car. 🚙💨 Head here for a guide on Renting a Car in Merida .

Even if you aren’t planning to spend all your time in Campeche, you can always do a  Merida to Campeche City day trip !

Campeche Mexico: Know before you go

  • 💰 Currency: Mexican Peso

⏰ Time Zone: Central Daylight Time (GMT-5)

  • 🗣 Language: Spanish, though English is common, and you may even hear some indigenous languages
  • 🎫 Mexico Visa: The vast majority of travelers do not need a visa for Mexico — this includes Americans, Canadians, Japanese and most Europeans. Head here to see if you need a Mexico travel visa.
  • 🔌 Electricity Socket : You’ll mostly find Type A (two-prong) and Type B (three-prong) — the same as used in the United States. For visitors from other countries, you’ll need this  universal travel adaptor .
  • 📲 Mexico SIM Card : Wondering, Do I need a SIM card for Mexico? The answer is yes, every traveler will want a one for the reasons explained in this article all about the best Mexico SIM cards .
  • 🚙 Car Rentals : The Mexico rental car process can be a bit daunting, and many people are apprehensive to drive in a foreign country. I get it! Check out this guide to Renting a Car in Mexico for info on the process.

Where to Stay in Campeche Mexico

Campeche city, mexico.

red trolley tram in front of white colonial church in downtown campeche city mexico

The most-visited place in Campeche is the state’s colorful capital city, San Francisco de Campeche (AKA  Campeche City ). This historic Walled City is a Mexico UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Is Campeche Mexico worth visiting? Campeche provides a great off the beaten path Yucatan Peninsula trip.

Besides the city, there’s Mayan ruins in Campeche including Calakmul , Edzna and Becan — and beautiful Campeche beaches like the Isla Aguada pueblo magico (magic town) and Sabancuy.

Best things to do in Campeche Mexico

From the Walled City of Campeche to the Calakmul Mayan Ruins — both UNESCO World Heritage Sites — Campeche state has some amazing Mexico hidden gems.

The beaches in Campeche are non-touristy, non-crowded and some of the best quiet beach towns in Mexico .

Colorful colonial town

Campeche City

tall stone temple at Edzna, Campeche, Best Mayan Ruins in the Yucatan

Edzna Ruins

large mayan pyramid in the verdent green jungles the yucatan peninsula in mexico called Calakmul Ruins, one of the most unique places to visit in mexico

Calakmul Ruins

campeche mexico tourism

Isla Aguada

tall stone temple at Becan, Campeche, Best Mayan Ruins in the Yucatan

Becan Ruins

Best campeche tours, campeche mexico travel guide, is campeche safe for travelers.

According to experts, you are statistically quite safe while visiting Mexico. Campeche is one of three states that make up the famed Mexico Yucatan Peninsula — one of the most visited and safest regions in the country. Now, that’s not to say bad things don’t happen in Campeche Mexico; they do.

Millions of Americans go to Mexico on vacation every year, so if we play the numbers game, the number of incidents is very small… When I’m asked if Mexico is a safe place to go travel on vacation, my response is  yes . —Carlos Barron, FBI Veteran (source:  Forbes )

As with traveling anywhere, follow general travel safety like not walking home alone at night, watching your alcohol consumption and staying aware of yourself and surroundings.

For an added safety measure, pack these  travel safety items , dress in a way so your Mexico outfits blend in with the locals, and buy a Mexico SIM card .

What’s the best travel insurance for Mexico?

travel insurance for mexico paperwork

This is a question I get a lot as a Mexico travel writer and Mexico expat. To determine which Mexico travel insurance is best for you , consider factors like the policy’s total cost, your deductible, the coverage you need, your medical benefits, etc.

🏆 In general, I only ever recommend three companies to purchase Mexico travel insurance from:

  • World Nomads — For general travelers and adventure travelers.
  • SafetyWing — For general travelers and digital nomads in Mexico.
  • Travel Insurance Master — Mexico travel insurance search tool, for those who want to compare policies.
  • 👉 Click on any of the links above to get a FREE quote on your policy!

Campeche Mexico Travel: Frequently Asked Questions

Can you drink the water in campeche mexico.

No — Unfiltered Mexico tap water is not safe for human consumption. However, you will need to keep drinking water and to stay extra hydrated, as Mexico is quite close to the Equator. In fact, dehydration is one of the most common ways people get sick in Mexico.

So what can you do?

  • If you’re renting a home with a kitchen, you can boil the water before drinking it.
  • You can keep buying bottled water — Though this gets expensive, and is horrible for the planet!
  • Use the Water-To-Go Filterable Bottle . This refillable bottle not only keeps you hydrated, but also filters your water so you don’t get sick in Mexico, and is good for the planet ♻️ Get 15% OFF with code SOLO15!

water bottles

The Water-To-Go Bottle has a built-in, three-stage filtration system that removes 99.9999% of all water-borne contaminants. These include bacteria, microplastics, viruses, heavy metals, chemicals and more. I personally own one, as you can drink Mexico water from any source (even the tap), and be completely safe.

campeche mexico travel guide

What’s the best time to visit campeche mexico.

Campeche weather, much like all Yucatan Peninsula weather, is tropical . This means you can expect pleasant winters, and hot, humid, rainy summers.

For this reason, the best time to travel to Campeche Mexico is from November to April , during the dry season when there won’t be rain and excessive humidity.

Note: June 1-November 30 is the Atlantic Hurricane Season. Located right on the Gulf of Mexico, Campeche state is susceptible.

☀️ Campeche Weather

campeche weather chart

How many days do I need in Campeche Mexico?

For those who only plan to explore the historic Walled City of Campeche, many go on a weekend, overnight or day trip from Merida to Campeche . Campeche City is quite small, so it’s possible to see in one day — and located only about two hours from the popular Yucatan destination of Merida, Mexico .

If you want to explore some of the surrounding ruins, like Edzna Mayan Ruins and Becan Mayan Ruins , plan for at least 3 days in Campeche.

For the full Campeche Mexico travel experience, add in another 2-3 days so you can either check out the beaches of Campeche or the Calakmul Mayan Ruins , located deep in the jungles of the Calakmul Biosphere Reserve.

🗣 Mexico Language

Mexico Fun Fact : There’s actually no official language of Mexico!

Spanish is the most widely-spoken, so some mistakenly say Spanish is the official language of Mexico. However, the government actually recognizes 68 national languages, including the Nahuatl Aztec language, and the Maya language.

💰 Mexico Currency

Mexican Peso — Exchange rates vary, but have hovered around $18-21 pesos to $1 USD for about the last decade. You will find some places that take U.S. dollars, but usually at an unfavorable rate, so stick to using pesos in Mexico .

☀️ Mexico Weather

Mexico is a big country — the 7th largest on Earth, in fact! It’s hard to generalize the weather in Mexico, because it will vary greatly by where you’re traveling.

In general, temperatures are mostly mild everywhere all year long, though summers on the coast are hot and humid, and winters in Central and Northern Mexico are on the colder side. Throughout the whole country, the rainy season runs from (about) April through September.

✈️ Mexico Busy Season & Slow Season

• Mexico Busy Season: The busy season in Mexico runs October to March, as this is the dry season and you’ll get the best weather. December is the busiest month for tourism in Mexico.

• Mexico Slow Season : If you don’t mind some rain, you’ll often find the best travel deal during the Mexico slow season of April to September. Do keep in mind that June 1-November 1 is Hurricane Season, and Mexico beaches are all susceptible.

• Mexico Shoulder Season : The shoulder season is that magical time when prices are still low and the weather is good. The Mexico shoulder season is from about mid-October to November and January to early-April.

🧳 Download your FREE Mexico Packing Checklist here!

Check out this Ultimate Packing List for Mexico — so you know what to pack and what NOT to pack for Mexico! This article offers advice on packing for Mexico cities, and packing for a Mexico beach vacation.

Beyond what Mexico outfits and clothing you’ll want to bring, here are a few extra things to consider:

• Filterable Water Bottle: Mexico is close to the Equator, so you’ll need to stay extra hydrated. In fact, dehydration is one of the most common ways people get sick in Mexico.

A filterable, refillable water bottle not only keeps you hydrated, but also filters your water so you don’t get sick in Mexico.

The Water-To-Go Bottle has a built-in, three-stage filtration system that removes 99.9999% of all water-borne contaminants. These include bacteria, microplastics, viruses, heavy metals and chemicals.

• Mexico SIM Card: Want to be able to use your phone in Mexico?! Of course you do! Pick up a TELCEL Mexico SIM card before your trip, and swap it out on the plane while you’re waiting to exit, so you have phone and data service the second you arrive in Mexico.

•  Anti-Hangover Meds: Planning to party hardy?! Make sure you’re not wasting any of your precious travel time with a hangover. Liquid I.V. has about 70,000 reviews on Amazon, and is considered the best defense against a hangover.

•  Sun Hat: No matter if you’re headed to the beach or a city, you’ll want to wear a hat to shield yourself from the strong Mexican sun. This cute sun hat is the perfect stylish and practical accessory for your Mexico vacation.

•   Sunscreen: As you’ll want to reapply a few times throughout the day, a light, Mineral-Based Sunscreen is ideal.

Headed to the beach? Do your part to practice responsible tourism in Mexico by only using an eco-friendly reef safe sunscreen while swimming. You can even ditch the sunscreen altogether and opt for a long sleeve swimsuit (AKA rash guard) instead.

•   Bug Repellent: Mosquitoes are common throughout Mexico — especially on the beaches! REPEL Insect Repellent is an eco-friendly brand that’s DEET-free and plant based, with a pleasant lemon and eucalyptus scent. Don’t want to use a spray? Pick up some Mosquito Repellent Bracelets .

The vast majority of travelers do not need a visa for Mexico — this includes Americans, Canadians, and most Europeans. Head here to see if you need a Mexico travel visa.

🤔 What is the mexico FMM ?

When you go through Customs & Immigration to enter the country, you’ll receive your Forma Migratoria Multiple , or FMM Tourist Card (sometimes listed as FMT). If you’re coming by plane or cruise ship, there is no charge; for those driving across the border, the FMM costs about $30USD.

In most circumstances, all visitors get a 180-day (six month) visa — so you can legally stay up to six months!

🚨 Have your FMM on you at all times

Keep in mind that though it’s called an FMM card , it’s actually just a small piece of paper. Keep your FMM on you at all times in your wallet, as this proves your legal status in Mexico. It’s rare, but if an officer stops you, they can ask to see your FMM.

🎫 Don’t lose your FMM!

You need to have your FMM on you at all times, as proof of your legal status in the country.

Be sure to keep track of your FMM, as you’ll have to give it back to an Immigration officer at the airport, cruise port, or land crossing when you’re leaving the country.

If you lose your FMM, there is a $600 peso ($30 USD) cost to replace it, and some paperwork you’ll need to fill out before you can leave the country.

If you’re flying home, plan to arrive at the airport about one hour earlier than you normally would to do the paperwork and pay the fine.

As this question doesn’t have a yes/no answer ( I wish it did! ), I do my best to answer it in depth in this article, Is Mexico Safe for Travelers Right Now ? However, for the most part, Mexico is actually statistically quite safe for all travelers — including solo travelers.

Check my Solo Female Mexico Travel page for more info.

💃 Mexico solo travel guides

Mexico is a big country, and it has plenty of amazing solo female travel destinations — like the ones featured in this article, Mexico Solo Travel: 20 Safe Destinations for Female Travelers .

In it, you’ll get recommendations of places to visit in Mexico, from solo travelers who have actually been to them.

🎧 solo travel podcasts

• Ep. 34 |  Planning your first Mexico solo trip • Ep. 40 | Tips for safe solo travel in Mexico • Ep. 53 | 30 Solo female travel tips, Pt. 1

To answer the question, Is it safe to drive in Mexico? — YES , it’s considered safe to rent a car and drive in Mexico.

As the country is quite large, road trips are a great way to see a lot in a little time, and especially popular in the Yucatan Peninsula and Baja California Peninsula.

The one caveat to Mexico driving safety is that you’ll be in a foreign country, unfamiliar with their laws and customs. Head here for a complete guide to Renting A Car in Mexico: Everything You Need to Know , where you’ll also get 10 useful Mexico driving tips!

🚙💨 Looking for the best Mexico car rental company? Discover Cars works with both local Mexican companies and international companies to get you the best rates. Not only do I recommend them — I also use them!

Find Your Rental Car

As a general rule, you’ll want to know at least a few words of Spanish when visiting anywhere in Mexico. This is both a sign of respect, and will also help you have a better, smoother trip.

If you stick to the more touristic places in Mexico, you should be fine with basic Spanish. For those planning to venture off the beaten path, be advised most people in pueblos  (small towns) speak little to no English.

🗣 Here are some options:

  • Brush up on your Spanish: Use a language-learning program like Rocket Spanish , so you’re confident, and conversational, before your trip.
  • Download the Google Translate App: For this to work at all times, you’ll need a Mexico SIM card with data — as the app won’t work when you’re off-WiFi.
  • Travel with a Mexico phrasebook: This Lonely Planet Spanish Phrasebook is an Amazon best seller, and a great non-digital language assistant!
  • Save this infographic an image on your phone. This way, you have access to these common words, phrases and questions, even when you’re off-WiFi.

The Partying Traveler

Survival of the littest.

campeche travel guide mexico

The Backpacker’s Travel Guide to Campeche | Mexico

It seems like I may never run out of places to fall in love with in Mexico. No matter how much time I spend traveling in Mexico, there is always somewhere to new to discover and adore. On my 7th or 8th visit to the country, I finally stumbled upon the gem of Campeche. The quiet city of Campeche falls outside of most travelers’ radars, which is a shame because it’s a pretty cool city. If you’re looking for an alternative to Mexico’s more touristic cities, look no further. Here’s a quick travel guide to the charming town of Campeche.

Table of Contents

Is campeche worth visiting.

  • How To Get To Campeche

Where To Stay in Campeche

  • The Best Things To Do In Campeche

Where To Go After Campeche

  • More on Mexico

This post contains affiliate links. That means that I may earn a commission if you make a purchase through one of these links.

My Complete Mexico Backpacking Itinerary

My Complete Mexico Backpacking Itinerary

By popular demand… Here is the complete itinerary for one of my favorite countries in the world, Mexico. In this 77-page guidebook, I cover 30 of my favorite Mexican destinations, including how to get to each city, where to stay, and the best things to do in each city. I also include tidbits of useful information like things to know before going to Mexico, as well as my favorite party destina…

The coastal city of Campeche was a pleasant surprise. The full name is San Francisco de Campeche, but it’s often simply referred to as Campeche. It is the capital city of the state it shares its name with, and an up-and-coming tourist destination on Mexico’s Caribbean coast. Campeche’s colorful colonial city center is one of the cutest in all of Mexico, and was even designated a UNESCO site. Throw in some good food and seaside vibes and you’ve got yourself a must-visit stop on your Mexico itinerary.

campeche mexico tourism

I wouldn’t say you need to spend too much time in Campeche, and three days should be plenty to check off everything you’d want to see. However, the vibe here is nice and I got into a good little work flow. Jogs along the sea, work sessions at Origen Cafe, and catching sunset on one of the small piers made for a perfect day. It’s a great destination if you’re looking to work remotely in Mexico , although a bit too quiet on the nightlife side for me.

How To Get to Campeche

By bus from merida.

If you’re backpacking in Mexico, odds are, you’re traveling by bus. This area of Mexico is serviced by the ADO bus line. You’ll find frequent departures to Campeche from most of Eastern Mexico’s big cities. Merida, Cancun, Villahermosa, San Cristobal, and Palenque are likely where you’ll be coming from. You can check the online bus schedule at ADO.com.mx , and even purchase your tickets right on the site. I’d recommend that so you don’t have to show up at the bus station until your bus actually leaves.

Campeche is serviced by an airport, but it isn’t a major city so flights aren’t too cheap. From Mexico City, it is around $100 one-way to fly to Campeche without any luggage. It might even be cheaper to catch a bus to Merida and fly out of their airport instead.

Oh, and before you go, make sure to have good travel insurance handy whenever you’re out adventuring. I use  SafetyWing  to keep me covered throughout my travels for as low as $45 a month. Their insurance plans includes Mexico among the 190+ countries they cover.

Campeche has a number of hotels and a couple of hostels. Most of them are located in or around the historic center. As a backpacker, you’ll want to stay in this area. It’s where you’ll find most of Campeche’s attractions, restaurants, and nightlife. Plus, you’ll be right on the sea. 

R&R Hostel

This is where I stayed, and the location was perfect. For the price, the value can’t really be beat. The hostel isn’t much, but Campeche isn’t exactly on the backpacker trail quite yet. While the hostel isn’t modern or up-to-date, it does have a cozy vibe to it. R&R Hostel has a charm of its own, partially contributed by the little Chihuahua, Frijol. The owner, Rodrigo, is very kind and welcoming, and will help you with anything you need while you’re here.

There are a few other hostels in town that don’t have an online presence, including one right on the square. Campeche is quiet and low-key enough that I don’t imagine you’d need to book a place in advance. You can definitely just rock up to one of the hostels or hotels in town and shop around for the best rate. However, R&R Hostel only has 10 beds, so if you want to stay there, definitely book in advance .

The Best Things To Do in Campeche

Like I said earlier, you don’t need too much time to see most of what Campeche has to offer. It’s a great city for taking it slow and relaxing, but you have a few options if you’re feeling a little more adventurous.

Visit the Archaeological Site of Edzna

campeche mexico tourism

Visiting the ruins of Edzna is definitely the best thing to do if you’re visiting Campeche. Edzna is located only an hour away from the city center and you can catch a colectivo from outside the local market . The ride costs 45 pesos each way. The entrance fee to Edzna is only 85 pesos and one of the best experiences I’ve had at any archaeological site in Mexico. There were hardly any other tourists there, and the ruins are stunning. It’s nothing like Chichen-Itza which is overcrowded and 6 times more expensive than Edzna.

Even if you aren’t interested in ruins or archaeology, I’d recommend a visit to Edzna while you’re in Campeche. It’s a surreal feeling being able to wander through a city dating back the 7th Century or earlier.

Wander Down Vibrant Calle 59

campeche mexico tourism

This colorful street is the main road in the city center for travelers looking to eat or go out. Calle 59 is lined with trendy restaurants offering cuisine from all fares. It’s quite touristy, but if you want a change from Mexican food, you can find sushi, Italian, burgers, pizza, and more down this street. Calle 59 is an all-around vibe. It never hurts to treat yourself to nice lunch or dinner.

Walk Along Campeche’s Boardwalk, The Malecon

campeche mexico tourism

Campeche is a coastal city, although it doesn’t have any notable beaches. It does have a long boardwalk, though. You can walk up and down the coast, enjoying the views and refreshing sea breeze. There are some great spots along the way to catch the sunset or a nice photo opportunity.\

Visit the Archaeological Museums of Campeche

campeche mexico tourism

Campeche is home to a number of archaeological museums, although they’re all pretty far apart from each other. There is one in the city center, but it was closed to remodeling while I was there. On the opposite ends of the Malecon, you’ll find two other archaeological museums.

Check out the Archaeological Site of Calakmul

The ruins of Calakmul might be among the most impressive in Mexico. Campeche is a good kicking off point for travelers who might be interested in checking out Calakmul. While I didn’t get to visit, there are some tour agencies that offer a trip to Calakmul. If you don’t have your own car, that’s the best way to visit those ruins.

Eat Local at the Mercado

campeche mexico tourism

Since I travel on a budget, Mexico’s mercados are usually where I end up for breakfast or lunch. Like most of Mexico’s various states, Campeche has its own take on Mexican cuisine. The market has plenty of offerings local to Campeche and Yucatan. You’ll quickly find out that Mexico is much more than tacos and burritos.

Shop At the Artisanal Market

campeche mexico tourism

Just outside of the fort’s walls, there are cute artisanal market close to the sea. If you’re looking for some souvenirs, this is the best place to do it.

Take A Walking Tour of Campeche

The free walking tour of Campeche stopped running a few years back due to lack of tourism, but there are still some options for paid walking tours. Just stop by one of the tour agencies, and they’ll give you the information you need. Campeche is quite small, so unless you want to get to know the history of Campeche, I don’t think you truly need a walking tour.

Wander the Historic City Center

campeche mexico tourism

Of course, Campeche is a wanderer’s paradise. If you don’t feel like taking a guided walking tour, you can make a walking tour of your own. The beautiful streets are just waiting to be explored. You can also take in the views from the walls of the fort surrounding historic Campeche.

The options are limitless of where to go next. Campeche is a crossroads that could take you south to Chiapas, west to Tabasco, north to Yucatan, or all the way to the sparkling waters of Quintana Roo. Heck, you’re not even that far from Guatemala or Belize. Campeche serves as a great layover to grand adventures.

how to visit palenque on your own

The pueblo magico and ruins of Palenque are a few hours by bus from Campeche. If you plan on traveling to Chiapas, Palenque is a great entry point. The city itself isn’t much, but the surrounding area boasts stunning waterfalls and a slew of archaeological sites.

campeche mexico tourism

You can’t go wrong with the capital of Yucatan state. This big city is a hub of culture, history, and adventure. It’s a great kick off point for exploring cenotes, ancient ruins, and quiet beaches.

  • San Cristobal de las Casas

San Cristobal de Las Casas travel guide

If you’re all ruin-ed out, then you might want to skip Palenque and go straight to San Cristobal de las Casas. This is the cultural capital of Chiapas state , and one of my favorite small cities in the world. Do not miss it.

If this post helped you out, show some love and support for the blog and help keep my adventures going by  buying me a beer ! My adventures are entirely self-funded, so any show of support is greatly appreciated, and allows me to keep writing helpful travel guides and creating travel content to help you all travel the world on a budget.

My Complete Mexico Travel Itinerary

Be sure to check out my  complete Mexico backpacking itinerary , a jam-packed 77-page guide covering 33 of my favorite destinations in magical Mexico.

More Mexico Travel Guides

  • Mexico City
  • Puerto Escondido
  • La Huasteca Potosina
  • Villahermosa & Tabasco

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Explore Campeche

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Plan Your Trip to Campeche: Best of Campeche Tourism

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Essential Campeche

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Campeche Is Great For

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Historical Tours

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Cultural Tours

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Art & history

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  • Hacienda Campeche
  • Gamma Campeche Malecon
  • Casa Don Gustavo Hotel Boutique
  • Hotel Plaza Campeche
  • Ocean View Hotel
  • La María Cocina Peninsular
  • La Recova Cincuenta & Nueve
  • Zona Arquelogica Edzna
  • Playa Bonita
  • Isla Aguada
  • Centro Histórico de San Francisco de Campeche
  • Old City Wall
  • Calakmul Ancient Maya City Tour - From Campeche
  • Full Day Excursion to Calakmul and Balamkú From Campeche
  • Petenes biosphere tour
  • Campeche: Highlights, Museums and Downtown Tour
  • Half Day Private Tour of Campeche, the Walled City

Winter is here! Check out the winter wonderlands at these 5 amazing winter destinations in Montana

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Campeche, Mexico Travel Guide: Things To Do In Campeche And More

Published: September 5, 2023

Modified: December 27, 2023

by Celestia Worth

  • Plan Your Trip
  • Travel Destinations
  • Travel Tips

campeche-mexico-travel-guide-things-to-do-in-campeche-and-more

Introduction

Welcome to Campeche, a hidden gem nestled on the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico. This charming city is known for its rich history, stunning architecture, pristine beaches, and vibrant culture. Campeche offers a perfect blend of old-world charm and modern attractions, making it a unique destination for travelers looking to immerse themselves in the beauty of Mexico.

With its colorful colonial buildings, cobblestone streets, and UNESCO World Heritage status, the historic center of Campeche is a sight to behold. Here, you will find a treasure trove of well-preserved landmarks, including ancient forts, majestic cathedrals, and picturesque plazas. As you wander through the streets, you can’t help but be captivated by the city’s captivating ambiance and the warm hospitality of its residents.

But Campeche is not just about its stunning architecture. The city also boasts some of the best beaches and islands in Mexico. Whether you’re seeking relaxation on powdery white sands, thrilling water activities, or pristine natural landscapes, Campeche has it all. From the tranquil shores of Seybaplaya to the vibrant atmosphere of Isla Aguada, there’s a beach or island to suit every preference.

When it comes to gastronomy, Campeche offers a delightful culinary experience. The region is famous for its seafood dishes, influenced by both Mayan and Spanish cuisines. Indulge in traditional dishes like pan de cazón, a savory layered tortilla filled with shark meat, or pescado a la tikin-xic, grilled fish marinated in achiote paste. Don’t forget to pair your meal with a refreshing Nanche sour, a local cocktail made with the region’s indigenous fruit.

For history buffs, Campeche is a treasure trove of Mayan ruins waiting to be explored. Just a short distance from the city, you can discover the fascinating archaeological sites of Edzna and Calakmul. These ancient ruins provide a glimpse into the rich and mysterious Mayan civilization and offer breathtaking views of the surrounding jungle.

Campeche is also home to two UNESCO Biosphere Reserves, Calakmul and Los Petenes-Ría Celestún. These protected areas showcase the region’s diverse ecosystems, including dense rainforests, mangroves, and lagoons. Embark on a thrilling eco-adventure as you explore the biodiversity of the region and encounter unique species of flora and fauna.

Whether you’re in the mood for a relaxing beach getaway, an exploration of ancient ruins, or a cultural immersion in a charming colonial city, Campeche has something to offer. So pack your bags and get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through this enchanting destination.

History of Campeche

The history of Campeche dates back thousands of years, with evidence of human occupation in the region dating as far back as 3000 BCE. The area was originally inhabited by the Maya civilization, who established several settlements in what is now modern-day Campeche. The city was known as Ah Kin Pech, which means “Place of Serpents” in the Mayan language.

During the 16th century, Campeche became a major hub for Spanish colonization in the Yucatan Peninsula. The city served as an important port for the Spanish conquistadors, who sought to expand their empire and access the riches of the New World. The wealth brought in through trade, particularly with Europe, led to the construction of impressive fortifications, which still stand today as a testament to Campeche’s historical significance.

However, Campeche’s strategic location also attracted the attention of pirates and buccaneers, who frequently raided the city during the 17th century. To protect themselves, the people of Campeche built an intricate system of fortresses, including the iconic Fuerte San Miguel, which played a crucial role in defending the city against pirate attacks.

Throughout its history, Campeche has experienced periods of prosperity and decline. The city thrived during the colonial era, with wealthy merchants and traders contributing to the development of grand mansions, churches, and public squares. The unique blend of Spanish and Maya influences is evident in the city’s architecture, giving it a distinctive charm.

In 1999, the historic center of Campeche was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognizing its exceptional cultural and historical value. The preservation of its colonial buildings, fortified walls, and strong cultural traditions is a testament to the city’s commitment to honoring its past.

Today, Campeche proudly showcases its rich heritage through various cultural events and festivals. The city comes alive during the annual Festival Internacional de la Ciudad de Campeche, where locals and visitors alike can enjoy traditional music, dance performances, and exquisitely crafted handicrafts.

Exploring the historic center of Campeche is like stepping back in time, with its well-preserved streets, colorful facades, and stunning architectural details. From admiring the beauty of the Cathedral of Campeche to strolling along the Paseo de Montejo, every corner of the city tells a story of its fascinating past.

With its deep-rooted history and unique blend of cultures, Campeche offers a captivating journey through time. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, an architecture lover, or simply a curious traveler, Campeche’s historical charm is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Getting to Campeche

Getting to Campeche is relatively easy, with several transportation options available. Whether you’re arriving by air, land, or sea, here are the different ways to reach this charming city.

By Air: Campeche International Airport (CPE) is the main airport serving the city. It offers domestic flights from major cities in Mexico, including Mexico City, Cancun, and Merida. There are also a few international flights connecting Campeche to destinations in the United States, such as Houston and Miami. From the airport, you can take a taxi or arrange for a shuttle service to reach your accommodation in the city center.

By Bus: Campeche is well-connected by a network of highways, making it easily accessible by bus. Several bus companies operate routes to and from Campeche, including ADO, OCC, and Mayab. You can catch a bus from neighboring cities like Merida, Cancun, and Tulum. The bus station is conveniently located in the city center, making it easy to reach your hotel or explore the sights on foot.

By Car: If you prefer to drive, you can rent a car and take the scenic route to Campeche. The city is connected to the rest of Mexico via the Federal Highway 180, also known as the Gulf Coastal Highway. The drive to Campeche offers breathtaking views of the Yucatan Peninsula’s landscapes, including lush jungles and coastal scenery. Just make sure to have a valid driver’s license and familiarize yourself with the local traffic rules.

By Sea: Campeche is also accessible by cruise ship. Several cruise lines include Campeche as a port of call on their itineraries, allowing passengers to explore the city’s historical center and enjoy its attractions. The cruise terminal is located near the city center, making it convenient for visitors to disembark and start their exploration.

Once you’ve arrived in Campeche, getting around the city is relatively easy. The historic center, where most of the main attractions are located, is best explored on foot. The streets are pedestrian-friendly, and you can take your time to admire the beautifully restored buildings and immerse yourself in the city’s ambiance.

If you want to venture beyond the city center, there are taxis available, both traditional yellow cabs and ride-sharing services like Uber. It’s always a good idea to agree on a fare before getting into the taxi or using the app-based service. Another option is to rent a bicycle and explore Campeche at your own pace. Many shops offer bicycle rentals, and the city has dedicated bike lanes that make cycling a safe and enjoyable way to get around.

Whether you choose to fly, take a bus, drive, or arrive by sea, reaching Campeche is the first step to embarking on an unforgettable journey through history, culture, and natural beauty. So plan your trip, pack your bags, and get ready to experience all that this enchanting city has to offer.

Exploring the Old Town

One of the highlights of visiting Campeche is exploring its historic old town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With its well-preserved colonial architecture, colorful buildings, and charming cobblestone streets, the old town is a delight to wander through and offers a glimpse into Campeche’s rich cultural heritage.

A great starting point for your exploration is the main square, known as Plaza Principal or Plaza de la Independencia. This lively square is the heart of the city and is surrounded by significant landmarks, including the impressive Cathedral of Campeche. Take a moment to admire the intricate details of the cathedral’s facade and step inside to appreciate its beautiful interior.

As you stroll through the streets, you’ll be greeted by a stunning display of colorful facades. The buildings in the old town have been meticulously restored to their former glory, combining Spanish and Mayan architectural influences. One of the most picturesque streets is Calle 59, lined with vibrant mansions that now house boutique hotels, restaurants, and art galleries.

Keep an eye out for the ancient city walls that surround the old town. These fortified walls were built to protect Campeche from pirate attacks during colonial times. You can walk along the ramparts and enjoy panoramic views of the city, the Gulf of Mexico, and the picturesque San Francisco neighborhood.

Don’t miss the chance to visit the Baluarte de San Francisco, one of the restored forts along the city walls. Inside the fort, you’ll find a museum that tells the story of Campeche’s history and its relationship with piracy. Explore the exhibits, learn about the city’s defense strategies, and climb to the top of the tower for panoramic views.

Another must-visit landmark is the Casa 6, an 18th-century mansion that has been transformed into a museum. Step inside to admire the period furniture, artwork, and architectural elements. The museum offers insights into the daily lives of the wealthy families who once resided in these grand mansions.

As you continue your exploration, make sure to stop by the bustling Mercado Principal, the city’s main market. Here, you’ll find a vibrant atmosphere with stalls selling fresh produce, local handicrafts, and traditional snacks. Immerse yourself in the flavors and aromas of Campeche as you sample regional delicacies and interact with the friendly vendors.

In the evening, the old town transforms into a magical setting. The colonial buildings are beautifully illuminated, creating a romantic and enchanting ambiance. Take a leisurely stroll along the streets, soak in the atmosphere, and indulge in a delicious dinner at one of the many restaurants offering traditional Campeche cuisine.

Exploring the old town of Campeche is like stepping back in time. Whether you’re fascinated by history, architecture, or simply enjoy the charm of wandering through narrow streets, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must-visit destination that will leave you captivated by its beauty and rich cultural heritage.

Visiting Fuerte San Miguel

Fuerte San Miguel, also known as San Miguel Fortress, is an iconic historical landmark in Campeche. Located along the city’s ancient walls, this fortress played a significant role in Campeche’s defense against pirate attacks during the colonial era. A visit to Fuerte San Miguel is a journey into the past, offering a glimpse into the city’s rich maritime history.

Constructed in the 17th century, Fuerte San Miguel stands as a reminder of the city’s strategic importance as a port and its role in guarding the valuable treasures that passed through its waters. The fortress was designed to withstand pirate invasions, featuring thick stone walls, cannon emplacements, and a system of defensive structures.

As you approach Fuerte San Miguel, you’ll be greeted by its imposing facade and can’t help but be impressed by its architectural grandeur. Step inside the fortress, and you’ll find a museum that showcases the history of Campeche and its maritime heritage. The exhibits provide insight into the challenges faced by the city’s defenders and the tactics they employed to safeguard Campeche from marauding pirates.

Explore the different rooms within the fortress, each filled with artifacts, weapons, and displays that tell the story of Campeche’s past. Learn about the daring exploits of the buccaneers who roamed the seas, the legends of famous pirates, and the bravery and resilience of Campeche’s defenders. The museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the daily life of the people who lived and fought here centuries ago.

Make your way to the top of Fuerte San Miguel and be rewarded with panoramic views of the city and the Gulf of Mexico. From this vantage point, you can appreciate the strategic location of the fortress and gain a better understanding of the role it played in protecting Campeche.

Adjacent to Fuerte San Miguel, you’ll find a tranquil plaza where you can relax and take in the surroundings. This peaceful space is adorned with sculptures, gardens, and benches, providing a serene atmosphere to reflect on the fortress’s historical significance.

Visiting Fuerte San Miguel is not only a chance to delve into Campeche’s maritime history, but it’s also an opportunity to appreciate the architectural beauty of the fortress itself. The combination of its defensive structures and intricate details showcase the craftsmanship of the time, creating a captivating sight.

Embrace the spirit of adventure and immerse yourself in the captivating history of Campeche by exploring Fuerte San Miguel. From its formidable architecture to its enlightening museum exhibits, this landmark offers a fascinating window into the city’s past and is a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.

Experiencing the Local Cuisine

When visiting Campeche, one of the highlights of your trip will undoubtedly be the opportunity to experience the rich and flavorful local cuisine. Influenced by Mayan and Spanish culinary traditions, Campeche offers a delightful gastronomic journey that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more.

Seafood takes center stage in the local cuisine of Campeche, thanks to its coastal location. Indulge in dishes like pan de cazón, a savory tortilla layered with shark meat, black beans, and tomato sauce. Another must-try is pescado a la tikin-xic, a grilled fish marinated in achiote paste and spices, giving it a vibrant red color and smoky flavor.

The region is also famous for its delicious empanadas de cazón, fried turnovers filled with shark meat seasoned with spices, tomatoes, onions, and bell peppers. These savory delights are a perfect snack to enjoy while exploring the streets of Campeche.

For a truly unique culinary experience, be sure to try cochinita pibil. This traditional Yucatecan dish features slow-roasted pork marinated in achiote paste, bitter orange juice, and various spices. The resulting tender and flavorful meat is often served in soft corn tortillas and topped with pickled red onions.

Campeche is also known for its refreshing beverages. Cool down with a traditional Nanche sour, a cocktail made with the region’s native Nanche fruit, lime juice, sugar, and a splash of mezcal or rum. The Nanche fruit lends a tropical and slightly tart flavor to this refreshing drink.

When it comes to dining in Campeche, you have a wide range of options. Explore the city’s historic center, and you’ll find charming restaurants tucked away in beautifully restored colonial buildings. These establishments offer a blend of traditional and contemporary dishes, all prepared with fresh and locally sourced ingredients.

Visit the Mercado Principal, the city’s main market, to sample a variety of local delicacies. Here, you’ll find stalls selling fresh seafood, fruits, vegetables, and spices. Treat your taste buds to a culinary adventure by trying ceviche, seafood cocktails, tamales, and other street food offerings.

Don’t forget to satisfy your sweet tooth with some traditional Campechano desserts. Try the famous marquesitas, a sweet and crispy rolled waffle filled with a choice of fillings such as cheese, caramel, chocolate, or Nutella. Another delightful treat is the cocadas, coconut-based candies that come in different flavors and textures, from soft and chewy to crunchy.

While in Campeche, be sure to experience the local cuisine at its finest. Whether you’re indulging in seafood delicacies, sipping on refreshing beverages, or savoring traditional desserts, the flavors of Campeche will leave a lasting impression and make your culinary adventure a memorable part of your trip.

Discovering the Mayan Ruins

Immerse yourself in the ancient world of the Mayan civilization by exploring the captivating Mayan ruins near Campeche. These archaeological sites offer a glimpse into the rich history and complex culture of the Mayan people, showcasing their architectural achievements and spiritual beliefs.

Just a short distance from Campeche, you’ll find the spectacular ruins of Edzna. This ancient city was once a thriving Mayan center, known for its impressive architecture and ceremonial complexes. Explore the site and marvel at the Great Acropolis, the Temple of the Masks, and the magnificent Gran Juego de Pelota, a ballcourt where ancient Mayans engaged in a sacred ball game.

Another must-visit site is Calakmul, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most significant Mayan cities of the Classic Period. Located deep within the jungle, the sprawling complex of Calakmul is a testament to the grandeur and power of the Mayan civilization. Climb to the top of the main pyramid, known as Structure II, and be rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding rainforest.

These Mayan ruins offer more than just architectural wonders. They provide a window into the Mayan way of life, their religious practices, and their connection with the natural world. Hieroglyphic inscriptions, intricate carvings, and sacred cenotes add to the mystique of these ancient sites.

Guided tours are available at both Edzna and Calakmul, giving you the opportunity to learn about the history, significance, and cultural importance of these archaeological wonders. Local guides are well-versed in Mayan history and can provide valuable insights into the remarkable achievements of this ancient civilization.

Exploring these Mayan ruins is not only a journey through time, but it also allows you to connect with nature. Many of these sites are located within lush rainforests, offering a serene and immersive experience. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife such as howler monkeys, toucans, and other tropical creatures that call the jungles of Campeche home.

As you explore these archaeological sites, it’s essential to respect the surroundings and follow any rules or regulations in place to preserve these historical treasures. Help ensure that future generations can also enjoy the beauty and cultural significance of these Mayan ruins.

Discovering the Mayan ruins near Campeche is like stepping into a time capsule, allowing you to glimpse the magnificent achievements of the ancient Mayan civilization. With its intriguing history, awe-inspiring structures, and natural beauty, these archaeological sites are a must-visit for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the rich cultural heritage of the Yucatan Peninsula.

Exploring the Biosphere Reserves

Campeche is home to two UNESCO Biosphere Reserves, Calakmul and Los Petenes-Ría Celestún. These protected areas showcase the region’s diverse ecosystems, from dense rainforests to coastal wetlands, and offer ample opportunities for eco-adventure and nature exploration.

Calakmul Biosphere Reserve, located in the southern part of the state, is a vast expanse of tropical rainforest that covers over 1.7 million acres. It is one of the largest protected areas in Mexico and is home to incredible biodiversity. Explore the reserve’s network of trails and you might encounter a wide array of wildlife, including jaguars, howler monkeys, ocelots, and a variety of bird species. Hike to the top of the Calakmul pyramid for breathtaking views of the surrounding jungle canopy, or take a guided tour to learn about the medicinal plants and traditional Mayan uses of the forest.

Located along the Gulf of Mexico, Los Petenes-Ría Celestún Biosphere Reserve is a coastal wetland ecosystem that encompasses mangroves, lagoons, and a rich network of freshwater and saltwater marshes. This reserve is a haven for migratory birds, serving as an important breeding ground for flamingos, herons, egrets, and many other species. Take a boat tour through the mangrove forests, where you can observe the diverse birdlife and witness the delicate balance of the ecosystem. You may even be fortunate enough to spot crocodiles basking in the sun or encounter the unique marine life that thrives in these pristine waters.

Exploring these biosphere reserves allows you to connect with nature in a profound way. Immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the rainforest, breathe in the fresh air, and appreciate the wonders of the natural world. The reserves offer a range of activities such as birdwatching, wildlife spotting, hiking, and even camping, providing the perfect opportunity to disconnect from the modern world and reconnect with the environment.

As you venture into these protected areas, it’s essential to practice responsible ecotourism to minimize your impact on the delicate ecosystems. Follow the recommendations and guidelines provided by the reserve authorities, stay on designated trails, and avoid disturbing wildlife or their habitats.

Exploring the biosphere reserves in Campeche is a chance to witness the beauty and biodiversity of untouched nature. By experiencing these natural wonders, you not only gain a deeper appreciation for the environment but also contribute to the conservation efforts that protect these valuable ecosystems.

Relaxing on the Beaches

Campeche is blessed with pristine beaches that offer a slice of paradise along the Gulf of Mexico. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat, a sun-soaked vacation, or thrilling water activities, the beaches of Campeche have something for everyone.

One of the most popular beaches in Campeche is Seybaplaya. This tranquil coastal town boasts a long stretch of white sand and calm turquoise waters, creating the perfect setting for relaxation. Lounge on the beach, take a leisurely swim, or simply soak up the sun while enjoying the gentle ocean breeze.

For those seeking a more vibrant and lively beach experience, Isla Aguada is the place to be. Known for its festive atmosphere, this island offers a range of water activities such as jet skiing, parasailing, and banana boat rides. You can also explore the vibrant coral reefs by snorkeling or scuba diving and discover the colorful marine life that thrives beneath the surface.

Escape the crowds and head to Isla de Pájaros, a serene and secluded island known for its breathtaking natural beauty. As you walk along the pristine shores, you’ll find yourself immersed in a paradise untouched by development. Take a dip in the crystal-clear waters, sunbathe on the soft sand, or go for a leisurely stroll along the coast to enjoy the solitude and serene ambiance.

When you visit the beaches of Campeche, be sure to explore the nearby coastal towns, as they offer a unique glimpse into local life and provide opportunities to savor delicious seafood dishes. Try the freshly caught fish or shrimp prepared with local spices and flavors at one of the waterfront restaurants, and experience the taste of the sea.

Campeche’s beaches are not only a place to relax and unwind but also serve as a gateway to explore the region’s natural wonders. Many of the beaches are located in close proximity to lush mangroves, estuaries, and protected ecosystems. Embark on a boat tour or kayak through the mangrove forests to witness the beauty of these unique environments and encounter diverse flora and fauna.

As you spend a day at the beach, don’t forget to take in the stunning sunsets that paint the sky with hues of pink, orange, and purple. Find a comfortable spot on the sand, sit back, and marvel at the natural spectacle as the sun dips below the horizon, casting a golden glow over the water.

Whether you prefer a tranquil escape or an adventure-filled beach experience, the beaches of Campeche offer a pristine and inviting destination. From the soft sands and clear waters to the picturesque coastal scenery, you’re sure to find your own slice of paradise along the beautiful coastline of Campeche.

Enjoying Water Sports and Activities

With its stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters, Campeche offers an abundance of water sports and activities for enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker looking for an adrenaline rush or prefer a more leisurely experience, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in the waters of Campeche.

For those who love the thrill of speed and the rush of the waves, jet skiing is a popular water sport in Campeche. Rent a jet ski and carve through the waves, feeling the wind in your hair as you explore the coastline and take in the picturesque views from the water.

Another exhilarating water activity is parasailing. Get a bird’s-eye view of the stunning beaches and coastline as you are lifted high above the water, attached to a parasail. This exciting experience offers an unmatched perspective of the coastal scenery and is sure to leave you with lasting memories.

If you’re looking for a more immersive experience, snorkeling and scuba diving are fantastic options to explore the underwater world of Campeche. The calm, crystal-clear waters along the coast provide excellent visibility, allowing you to discover vibrant coral reefs, unique rock formations, and a rich variety of marine life. Keep an eye out for colorful tropical fish, graceful sea turtles, and even the occasional playful dolphin.

Kayaking is a fantastic way to explore the mangroves, lagoons, and estuaries that are abundant along the coastline of Campeche. Paddle through the calm waters, immersing yourself in the tranquility of nature as you admire the lush vegetation, spot unique bird species, and perhaps catch a glimpse of a crocodile or two.

Sailing enthusiasts can take advantage of Campeche’s coastal winds and embark on a sailing adventure. Rent a sailboat or join a guided tour to explore the open waters, feeling the freedom of the seas and the thrill of catching the wind in your sails.

For a more relaxed and leisurely experience, consider leisurely fishing. Campeche is known for its abundant marine life, making it a great destination for fishing enthusiasts. Cast your line from one of the piers or charter a fishing boat, and try your luck at catching a variety of fish species, including snapper, grouper, and tarpon.

No matter which water sport or activity you choose, it is important to prioritize safety. Always follow the instructions of experienced guides, wear appropriate safety gear, and be mindful of weather conditions and water currents.

Embrace the water and indulge in the exciting water sports and activities available in Campeche. Whether you’re seeking a thrilling adventure or a relaxing escape, the pristine waters of Campeche await, offering endless opportunities for fun, exploration, and unforgettable experiences.

Shopping for Local Handicrafts

One of the highlights of visiting Campeche is the opportunity to immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture and bring home unique handicrafts that reflect the region’s rich heritage. From traditional textiles to intricately carved wooden crafts, shopping for local handicrafts in Campeche is a delightful experience.

Exploring the streets of the historic city center, you’ll come across numerous shops and market stalls offering a variety of handmade goods. Look out for brightly colored textiles known as huipiles, which are traditional blouses worn by Mayan women. These beautiful textiles showcase intricate weaving techniques and vibrant patterns, each telling a story of the Mayan culture.

Another popular craft to look out for is the famous Campeche Panama hat, also known as the jipi-japa hat. These finely woven hats are made from the leaves of the Carludovica palmata plant and are known for their lightweight and breathable qualities. They make for a stylish and practical souvenir, perfect for protecting yourself from the sun’s rays.

Wooden crafts are another specialty of the region. Artisans carve intricate designs into wood, creating beautiful sculptures, masks, and figurines. Look for items such as alebrijes, which are whimsical and colorful wooden sculptures of animals and mythical creatures.

For those interested in ceramic arts, consider purchasing Talavera-style pottery. Originating from Spain, Talavera ceramics feature intricate designs and bright colors. From decorative plates to delicate figurines, these hand-painted ceramics make for exquisite and unique souvenirs.

When it comes to jewelry, be sure to keep an eye out for traditional Mayan-inspired pieces. Look for necklaces, earrings, and bracelets made from natural materials such as seeds, shells, and stones. These pieces often incorporate ancient symbols and designs, representing the deep-rooted Mayan culture.

To support local artisans and find a wide range of handicrafts, make a visit to the Mercado Principal. This bustling market is a treasure trove of handmade items, including woven baskets, hammocks, leather goods, and more. Take your time to explore the market, bargain with the vendors, and discover unique and authentic crafts to bring back as meaningful souvenirs.

Shopping for local handicrafts in Campeche not only allows you to take home a piece of the city’s culture but also supports the local community and helps preserve traditional craftsmanship. Each item holds a story and a connection to the rich heritage of Campeche, making it a cherished memento of your visit.

So, dive into the vibrant world of local handicrafts and bring home a piece of Campeche’s cultural legacy. Whether it’s a beautiful textile, a hand-carved wooden craft, or a unique ceramic piece, these locally made souvenirs will serve as a reminder of your unforgettable time in Campeche.

Festivals and Events

Campeche is a city known for its vibrant cultural scene and rich traditions, and throughout the year, it comes alive with colorful festivals and events that showcase the region’s unique heritage. These celebrations offer visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the lively atmosphere and experience the local culture firsthand.

One of the most highly anticipated events in Campeche is the Festival Internacional de la Ciudad de Campeche. This annual festival takes place in January and features a diverse range of cultural performances, including music, dance, theater, and art exhibitions. The festival brings together both local and international artists, creating a vibrant and eclectic celebration of creativity and talent.

During Holy Week, Campeche hosts Semana Santa, a religious celebration that commemorates the passion, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The city becomes a hub of religious processions, with locals and visitors taking part in the reenactments of biblical events. Elaborate floats, street decorations, and religious ceremonies create a solemn yet captivating atmosphere.

For music enthusiasts, the Festival del Centro Histórico de Campeche is a must-attend event. This music festival, held in April, showcases a wide variety of musical genres, including traditional Mexican music, jazz, rock, and classical. From intimate performances in historic buildings to energetic concerts in plazas, the festival offers a diverse and captivating musical experience.

In November, Campeche celebrates its independence with the Feria de San Francisco de Campeche. This week-long celebration features traditional dances, parades, rodeos, exhibitions, and cultural performances. The fairgrounds come to life with vendors selling local handicrafts, delicious food, and carnival rides, creating a festive atmosphere that is enjoyed by both locals and visitors.

Throughout the year, Campeche is also host to various art exhibitions, theater performances, and cultural workshops. These events provide an opportunity to engage with the local arts scene and discover the talents of Campeche’s artists and performers.

Attending these festivals and events not only allows you to witness the vibrant culture of Campeche but also provides an opportunity to interact with the warm and welcoming locals. You’ll have the chance to taste traditional food, learn about local customs, and join in the festivities, creating lasting memories and connections.

When planning your visit to Campeche, be sure to check the festival calendar to see if any events correspond with your trip. Make the most of your experience by fully immersing yourself in the vibrant celebrations and embracing the rich cultural heritage of this captivating city.

Day Trips from Campeche

While Campeche itself offers a wealth of attractions and activities, venturing out on day trips from the city allows visitors to explore even more of the surrounding natural and cultural wonders. From ancient ruins to picturesque towns, there are plenty of options for memorable day trips in the region.

One popular day trip destination is the archaeological site of Uxmal. Located a couple of hours away from Campeche, Uxmal is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its well-preserved Mayan architecture. Marvel at the majestic Pyramid of the Magician, explore the intricately carved Governor’s Palace, and discover the ballcourt where the ancient Mayans played their sacred games.

For a taste of colonial charm, head to the town of Mérida, the vibrant capital of the neighboring state of Yucatán. Meander through the city’s historic center, with its pastel-colored buildings and bustling plazas. Explore the bustling markets, indulge in traditional Yucatecan cuisine, and visit the stunning Cathedral of Mérida. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to experience the lively atmosphere of the historic Paseo de Montejo, lined with grand mansions and offering a glimpse into the city’s wealthy past.

If you’re interested in cenotes, natural sinkholes created by collapsed limestone caves, take a day trip to Cuzamá. Embark on a unique adventure by riding a traditional wooden cart pulled by horses through the countryside. Explore the hidden cenotes, swimming in the refreshing, turquoise waters and marvel at the exquisite rock formations and otherworldly beauty of these natural wonders.

Experience the picturesque coastal beauty of Celestún, a small fishing village famous for its flamingos. Take a boat tour through the Ría Celestún Biosphere Reserve and witness flocks of vibrant flamingos in their natural habitat, alongside other bird species and mangroves. Enjoy the pristine beaches, take a dip in the crystal-clear waters, and savor fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants.

For nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, a visit to the Calakmul Biosphere Reserve is a must. Explore the lush rainforests, hike through the verdant trails, and watch for exotic wildlife, including jaguars, monkeys, and colorful tropical birds. Climb to the top of the Calakmul pyramid for panoramic views of the surrounding jungle.

These are just a few examples of the diverse day trip options from Campeche. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or culture, the region surrounding Campeche offers a wealth of opportunities for exploration and adventure. Take advantage of the city’s central location to discover the wonders that await just a short distance away.

Tips for Travelers

When planning your trip to Campeche, it’s helpful to keep a few tips in mind to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. From logistics to cultural etiquette, here are some practical tips for travelers visiting Campeche:

  • Weather and Clothing: Campeche has a tropical climate, so pack lightweight and breathable clothing, along with a hat and sunscreen, to protect yourself from the sun. It’s also a good idea to bring a light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings.
  • Language: While Spanish is the official language, many people in the tourism industry can communicate in English. However, learning a few basic Spanish phrases will go a long way in enhancing your interactions with locals.
  • Currency and Money: The official currency in Mexico is the Mexican Peso (MXN). Be sure to have some cash on hand for small purchases, as not all establishments accept credit cards. ATMs are widely available in Campeche for convenient cash withdrawal.
  • Local Customs and Etiquette: Embrace the local culture by respecting the customs and traditions of the region. When entering churches or visiting sacred sites, dress modestly and observe any rules or guidelines. It’s also customary to greet people with a polite “Buenos días” (good morning) or “Buenas tardes” (good afternoon).
  • Transportation: Within the city, many attractions can be easily reached on foot, especially in the historic center of Campeche. Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available for longer distances or convenience. If renting a car, familiarize yourself with local traffic rules and parking regulations.
  • Health and Safety: It’s advisable to drink bottled water and exercise caution when consuming street food. Remember to use insect repellent to protect against mosquitoes, especially in outdoor areas. As with any travel destination, be mindful of your personal belongings and avoid walking alone in unfamiliar or poorly lit areas at night.
  • Cultural Sensitivity: Respect the local customs and traditions by seeking permission before taking photos of individuals, especially in rural communities or during traditional events. It’s also important to be mindful of your behavior in sacred sites and to follow any guidelines provided by guides or authorities.

By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll be well-prepared to make the most of your trip to Campeche. Embrace the local culture, savor the delicious cuisine, and immerse yourself in the history and natural beauty of this enchanting destination in Mexico.

Campeche is a destination that offers a unique blend of history, culture, natural beauty, and warm hospitality. From exploring the well-preserved old town with its colonial architecture to venturing into the lush rainforests and pristine beaches, there is something for every traveler to enjoy.

Through its rich Mayan heritage and historic significance as a colonial port city, Campeche tells a story that dates back thousands of years. The Mayan ruins, such as Edzna and Calakmul, offer a glimpse into a fascinating ancient civilization, while the well-maintained forts, like Fuerte San Miguel, remind us of its colonial past.

The natural beauty of Campeche shines through its biosphere reserves, where dense jungles, mangroves, and coastal wetlands are teeming with diverse flora and fauna. The beaches, with their powdery white sands and crystal-clear waters, provide the perfect backdrop for relaxation or thrilling water activities.

Not to be missed are the vibrant festivals and events that bring the city to life. From music and dance festivals to religious celebrations, these festivities showcase the rich cultural traditions of the region and offer an immersive experience for visitors.

As you venture through Campeche, remember to savor the local cuisine, shop for unique handicrafts, and embrace the warm and welcoming atmosphere of this charming city. From the colonial architecture of the old town to the rich flavors of traditional dishes, every corner of Campeche invites you to experience the beauty and authenticity of Mexican culture.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply seeking a relaxing beach getaway, Campeche promises to captivate and enchant you. So pack your bags, immerse yourself in the treasures of this incredible destination, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

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The Tourist Checklist

15 Best Beaches in Campeche, Mexico

The city of Campeche rests on the western coast of the Yucatan Peninsula on the Gulf of Mexico. It is the seat of the Campeche municipality and the state of Campeche’s capital.

This Mexican port city is renowned for its preserved military architecture, baroque colonial buildings, and walled historic district.

The city houses a myriad of beaches. Some of these beaches are untouched, thanks to the natural beauties surrounding them and tourism’s reduced presence.

The sand of these beaches, which ranges from white to golden with the serenity of the sea, is an oasis away from the top cities and crowds.

Hence, if you are looking for a place to relax and commune with nature, the beaches in Campeche, Mexico, are perfect.

Visiting them also offers the possibility of enjoying both the sun and the sea, eating fresh seafood, and carrying out ecotourism activities.

Let’s explore the top beaches in Campeche, Mexico. 

Best Beaches in Campeche, Mexico

1. sabancuy beach.

Sabancuy Beach

South of Campeche and north of Ciudad del Carmen is the sleepy little town of Sabancuy, a delightful old colonial settlement. This settlement is home to a stunning beach with a long span of white sand. 

The town sits on the bottom side of an estuary. To reach the shore, you must cross the estuary through a bridge.

Sabancuy Beach is relaxing and tranquil, setting the stage for an unforgettable experience. The waters are pristine and tend towards green than blue. 

Close to the beach are small but lovely restaurants. There are also palapas (a beach shelter made from palm fronds) to relax and escape from the day’s heat.

Besides, it boasts numerous picturesque spots that can make you a social media influencer. You can visit it as a top location to spend your vacation or escape from the usual city life.

The waters are home to various sea animals, including octopuses, oysters, snails, red snappers, shrimp, crabs, and other salty water animals.

2. Maravillas Beach

Maravillas Beach

Are you seeking to get a little wet while visiting Campeche? No other place sounds better than Maravillas Beach, in downtown’s heart. 

This beach is open 24 hours a day and has a stunning stretch of white sand, warm, pristine waters, and palm trees. It is popular among tourists who enjoy diving into the waters of the Gulf of Mexico. 

The beach is south of Ciudad del Carmen and only accessible via boat or swimming of Marafunte Island. You can visit at any time of the day when you feel like taking time off your vacation.

Maravillas Beach has something for everyone, with plenty of activities to keep you busy. Enjoy the spectacular views of the beach while having a great time. Unsurprisingly, it’s regarded as one of the top beaches in Campeche, Mexico.

Bring your family and friends and relax by the white sand, watching the calm waves. Locals and visitors usually come here, and people easily get hooked once they discover what a pleasant place it is.

Address: Hwy 180, Campeche, Mexico

3. Playa Norte

Playa Norte

Playa Norte, a few kilometers from Manigua, waves its hands to excited visitors coming to have fun in the water. This beautiful beach with regular waves is a natural spa spanning three kilometers. It features turquoise green and expansive coastlines of white sands.

It offers several activities one can engage in alone or in the company of others. The whole family can escape into it for jet skiing, swimming, or sailing. 

If you want to do more, you can enjoy its amazing views by parachuting from a height. After a great time on this beach, we recommend you visit the nearby small zoo that opens daily.

4. Bonita Beach

Bonita Beach

Bonita Beach lives up to its name as ‘Pretty Beach’ and offers several facilities for gentle surf on the water. It is reputed as one of the best beaches in Campeche, Mexico.

The water feels warm and gentle. It is a pleasant place to relax. At the same time, the atmosphere surrounding the water is crowded with other beach lovers. Hence, don’t expect to have the beach to yourself alone.

Since it is next to downtown, it has become a special spot for tourists and locals to escape into. If you want to enjoy a comparatively tranquil beach, a weekday afternoon is recommended.

Weekends in Bonita Beach promise an upbeat vibe with a cheerful summer feel. This beach, encircled by a gated resort, offers numerous facilities perfect for a family hangout.

Rent a palapa to protect you from the sweltering sun, plunge into the warm water, or join locals to play volleyball or football on the marked pitches.

In the evening, a delicious light meal in a nearby restaurant will make a fantastic relaxation. A dish of fresh seafood or fish will suit the mood better. The children can also get something cold from the ice cream joints.

The beach is free for pedestrians, but you have to pay to park your car. You will also part with a token for some hours under the palapas.

Address: 040020001140, 24500 Campeche, Mexico

5. Playa Bahamitas

Playa Bahamitas

Playa Bahamitas, with its pristine waters and downy white sand, is a retreat for those who want to enjoy nature. 

It is surrounded by picturesque landscapes, which constantly attract a visit by fun-seekers. Playa Bahamitas is regarded as one of the most beautiful beaches in Campeche, Mexico.

It is only 15 minutes from Playa Norte and provides the same vibes. However, on touring the calm banks, you will find shells, clams, starfish, and snails doing their thing, making it perfect for beach-combing.

If you visit when the sun sets, you may discover more beauty underlying this Playa Bahamitas than you can imagine.

6. Playa Caracol

Playa Caracol

Caracol Beach is among the famous beaches in Campeche, Mexico. It is very close to the city and perfect for a family hangout.

Its calm sea without waves, which joins the Laguna de Terminos, stands out. Many mangroves surround Playa Caracol, adding color to the peaceful atmosphere.

Caracol Beach is a hub of fun and is considered one of the scenic destinations in the region. You can relax in one of its palapas and try some of its best dishes, including the classic dogfish bread. 

There is a boating, canoeing, skiing, sailing, or ATVing dock. So, waste no time and visit to enjoy some heart-thrumming moments around the water.

If you are traveling with kids, bring them to this so they can enjoy themselves and create fun memories.

Address: Caracol, 24188 Ciudad del Carmen, Campeche, Mexico

7. Playa Isla Aguada

Playa Isla Aguada

This destination is remarkable for its fishing activities. However, its greatest strength lies in hosting a beehive of people searching for respite in the water.

People mostly visit Isla Aguada Beach for its peaceful vibes. Just sit back, unwind, and enjoy the crystal-clear emerald waters. The sound of its waves will definitely wash away your worries.

Due to its blend of mangroves, coast, and lagoons, the beach is a paradise of ecotourism. The beach also belongs to a protected flora and fauna area, spanning nearly 705,016 hectares. Owing to this essence, you will find numerous species of birds, including storks, herons, and hawks.

Stroll along the shores with your lover and admire the natural surroundings. As a family-friendly destination, the spot is easily accessible and free.

Beyond all these, there is a Natural Dolphin Sanctuary a few steps away, where you can take a boat tour to admire stunning dolphins swimming away gaily.

Drifting further, you can also find the Underwater Archeology Museum, where the leftovers of sunken ships and nautical instruments are displayed.

There is something for everyone here. Add an umbrella, sunscreen, and beverages to beat the heat. 

8. Playa Punta Varadero

Playa Punta Varadero

Among the many spectacular beaches in Campeche is Punta Varadero Beach. Its expansive, gorgeous seascapes and tranquil atmosphere make it perfect for relaxing after a hectic week.

But the serenity may be interrupted by occasional noises of seabirds as they fly past your head, flocking cheerfully. Tourists and locals also come to fish, swim, or get involved in other water activities. 

There is no better word to describe this place than ‘magnificent.’ So you know where to visit whenever you are vacationing in this stunning state.

Planning a road trip to Mexico? Explore this list of Clubs in Rosarito , and  Castles in Mexico for a memorable Mexico road trip.

9. Seybaplaya Beach

Seybaplaya Beach

The Seybaplaya Beach is a fishing port covering nearly three kilometers. In the corners of this remarkable beach, you will find white sands, large rocks, and endless vegetation. 

It is a hub for tourist activity and a great place to plan a weekend getaway. You can sit back and watch the sunset or stroll with your significant other.

Seybaplaya Beach offers numerous other activities to keep the fun going. Visitors can opt for kayaking, fishing, swimming, or other water activities.

If you love exquisite dishes, the restaurants have eclectic offerings with dogfish, octopuses, groupers, snappers, bass, and more. On a hill near Seybaplaya Beach is the Faro del Morro, a great place to sneak in if you want to expand your coverage.

10. Playa Manigua

Playa Manigua

Manigua Beach is another site close to the city, providing a haven away from the city noise. The Laguna de Terminos bathe its calm, wavy waters. It is positioned in the center of a backdrop of coconut palms and mangroves.

This stunning beach is the best place for long boat rides. Alternatively, you can sit calmly and appreciate the hovering birds. Those interested in ecotourism cannot but wonder at the awe of nature here.

The dense population of coconut palm trees offers the perfect relaxation you desire.

With many restaurants serving great food, you will lack nothing to keep your mouth busy while enjoying the atmosphere. These local dishes are fresh fish, shellfish, and other seafood platters made with the finest ingredients. 

If you are visiting from a far location, you can book a night in one of the surrounding hotels and relax ahead of the tour. In all, the Manigua Beach is a wonderful place to visit.

Address: Isla de Tris, 24155 Cd del Carmen, Camp., Mexico

11. Playa Natalia

Playa Natalia

Playa Natalia is sparsely covered by trees, providing a natural shade. Its spacious coastlines, golden sand, and pristine turquoise water offer a relaxing spot for those looking for a weekend hangout with their lover, friends, or family.

Playa Natalia coast has no amenities and is almost abandoned. Thus, it offers a calm and welcoming feeling for those who enjoy being alone around the water. You can also swim in the water or soak up the sun on a sunny summer afternoon. 

Since the beach is outside the Nohan settlement, it may be challenging to get there if you stay far from the coast. However, you can get there by bike or car. If you lack them, book a taxi from the city center. 

This secluded, untouched paradise is breathtaking for those who want scenic spots to hide in. Besides, it is free to visit and worth your attention.

Address :  México 180, 24302 Nohan, Camp., Mexico

12. Playa Punta Xen

Playa Punta Xen

Punta Xen, boasting thick vegetation, is home to a long series of charming beaches. These water bodies are peaceful with gentle waves. 

It is an ideal place for relaxation and meditation. Because of its surrounding vegetation, you can also go for bird-watching in Punta Xen Beach. Look out for migratory birds like ducks, ospreys, and flamingos. 

The beaches also stand out for sheltering sea turtles that visit yearly for spawning and camping. If you love nature’s calming effect, this location is a great place to be.

13. Playa Nixche

Playa Nixche

The Nixche Beach in Campeche boasts an awe-inspiring landscape that provides an authentic, phenomenal experience. It is a favorite destination for tourists and locals seeking to stroll away from the hustle and bustle of work. 

With its crystal-clear waters and friendly people, it is, no doubt, one of the wonders of Mexico. Indulge in eclectic Mexican gastronomy and serenade to the sounds of mariachi music as you sip on luscious tequila.

In the water, you can dive and practice water sports. In addition to swimming and sunbathing, the lush views of its coconut tree paths add to the overall charm of the beach. Stroll through the soft white sand as you admire these paths.

A visit with family and friends offers you many more things to do and share the experience of the magic of the waters of Nixche. This true gem will leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.

14. Playa Isla Arena

Playa Isla Arena

Isla Arena’s beautiful beaches and natural surroundings are fantastic spots to stop and wonder at the awe of nature.

You can explore this oasis of mangroves, sea, sand, and birds by boating or fishing. A tour guide can help you with information on iconic spots around.

If you are coming from a far location, there are numerous hotels to spend the night in so you don’t miss any details. Around the waters are lovely sites of interest to visit. One of them is the Crocodile House, a preservation center for these reptiles. 

15. Champoton Beach

Champoton Beach

The Champoton Beach faces the coast and boasts an extensive tourist infrastructure. If you want an out-of-the-world place to spend a good part of your day, this pristine pool with gentle waves is a great place to consider. 

There is an excellent restaurant on the beach with great food and drink to go with your relaxation. Aside from that, there are outside showers and clean restrooms to add to the allure of the beach. 

But nothing beats diving in the sea after touring the location on a sunny afternoon. It is worth visiting repeatedly.

Planning a Mexico vacation? here is a guide on fun things to do in Monterre , things to do in Acapulco , and Massage in Tulum for a fun trip in Mexico.

Plan Your Trip to Campeche

There is no better thing to do as a tourist in Mexico than to visit any of its numerous beaches. The friendly and welcoming people around the beaches, the fresh meals in the restaurants, and other out-of-the-water experiences can spice up your presence.

One thing is sure: you will always want to visit again. The beaches are a great place to spend a day, soak up the sun, and appreciate the world’s beauty away from home.

Take advantage of the search to browse through the World Heritage Centre information.

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Unesco social media, historic fortified town of campeche.

  • Description

Campeche is a typical example of a harbour town from the Spanish colonial period in the New World. The historic centre has kept its outer walls and system of fortifications, designed to defend this Caribbean port against attacks from the sea.

Description is available under license CC-BY-SA IGO 3.0

Ville historique fortifiée de Campeche

Le centre historique de Campeche est une ville portuaire de l'époque coloniale espagnole dans le Nouveau Monde. Elle a gardé son mur d'enceinte et son système de fortifications, mis en place pour protéger le port contre les attaques venant de la mer des Caraïbes.

مدينة كامبيش التاريخية المحصنة

يُعتبَر وسط كامبيش التاريخي مدينةً مينائيّةً من عصر الاستعمار الاسباني في العالم الجديد. وقد حافظت على سورها ونظام التحصينات فيها لحماية المرفأ من الهجومات التي تتعرَّض لها من جهة بحر الكاريبي.

source: UNESCO/CPE Description is available under license CC-BY-SA IGO 3.0

坎佩切城是西班牙殖民者征服新世界时期的典型港口城市,该历史要塞保留了其外墙和防御体系,这些防御工事是这个加勒比海港口为抵御海上袭击而修建的。

Ciudad histórica fortificada de Campeche

Campeche es una ciudad portuaria caribeña de tiempos de la colonización española. Su centro histórico ha conservado las murallas y el sistema de fortificaciones creado para protegerla contra los ataques navales.

カンペチェ歴史的要塞都市

source: NFUAJ

Historische vestingstad Campeche

Campeche is een typisch voorbeeld van een Caribische havenstad uit de Spaanse koloniale tijd in de Nieuwe Wereld. Het historische centrum heeft zijn buitenmuren en het systeem van vestingwerken behouden. De havenstad is een verstedelijkingsmodel van een barokke koloniale stad, met een dambord stratenpatroon. De verdedigingsmuren rond het historische centrum markeren de invloed van de militaire architectuur in het Caribisch gebied en zijn een voorbeeld van de militaire architectuur uit de 17e en 18e eeuw. De Vestingwerken maken deel uit van een totaal defensiesysteem opgezet door de Spanjaarden om de Caribische zeehavens te beschermen tegen aanvallen van piraten.

Source: unesco.nl

campeche mexico tourism

Outstanding Universal Value

Brief Synthesis

The Historic Fortified Town of Campeche, located in the State of Campeche, was founded in the 16 th century on the coast of the Gulf of Mexico, in the Maya region of Ah-Kim-Pech by Spanish conquerors. It was the most important seaport at the time and played a major role for the conquest and evangelization of the Yucatan Peninsula, Guatemala and Chiapas. Its commercial and military importance made it the second biggest town in the Gulf of Mexico, after Mérida. Due its port importance in the sea route: Spain, Havana, Campeche, and Veracruz; as point of embarkation of the natural riches of the peninsula and political differences of the kingdoms of the old continent, ring the second half of the 16th century, Campeche, like other Caribbean towns, was systematically attacked by pirates and corsairs in the pay of enemies of Spain; this is why a large-scale defensive system was installed. This military defensive system for mid-17th century was inadequate and poorly strategic so a new fortification, hexagonal wall, integrating eight bastions, four doors and walls, was authorized, with construction started in 1686 and concluding in 1704. Subsequently, to complete the system of fortifications, the redoubt of San Jose on the east Hill of the village and the redoubt of San Miguel on the west Hill, as well as the batteries of San Lucas, San Matias and San Luis, is mainly in the area of historic monuments, at both ends and facing the sea were constructed. 

The sea was the starting point of the Villa of San Francisco of Campeche and the construction of the military defensive system directed the urban growth and the development of this walled and baroque city. An urban chequerboard plan was chosen, with a Plaza Mayor facing the sea and surrounded by government and religious edifices. The walls enclose an irregular hexagon corresponding to the defensive belt encircling the town. The surrounding areas, named barrios, encompass religious buildings, civil and military architecture with Renaissance, Baroque and eclectics characteristics, emphasizing the military. In the 19th century, the town endowed itself with a fine theatre, harmonized with the urban fabric. A section of the wall was pulled down in 1893 to open up a space with a view of the sea, and the main square was turned into a public garden. In the 20th century, the traditional areas of the town centre were little affected by the modernization movement owing to a relative slackening of the economy.

The area of historic monuments is in the shape of an uneven polygon spread over 181 ha, including 45 ha surrounded by walls, with the town stretching out on each side, following the configuration of the coast and the relief. The protected group consists of two subgroups: area A with a high density of buildings of great heritage significance, and area B, which is not so dense but which forms a transitional and protective zone. The almost 1,000 heritage buildings include the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, several churches, the Toro theatre and the municipal archives, among others.

Criterion (ii) : The harbour town of Campeche is an urbanization model of a Baroque colonial town, with its checkerboard street plan; the defensive walls surrounding its historic centre reflect the influence of the military architecture in the Caribbean.

Criterion (iv) : The fortifications system of Campeche, an eminent example of the military architecture of the 17th and 18th centuries, is part of an overall defensive system set up by the Spanish to protect the ports on the Caribbean Sea from pirate attacks.

The inscribed property encompasses 181 ha which include all necessary elements to convey the Outstanding Universal Value of the property. The area of historic monuments is a coherent reflection of colonial architecture. The very well conserved system of fortifications illustrates military engineering during the period of Spanish colonialism in the Caribbean. The property maintains good conservation conditions which ensure the physical integrity of heritage buildings.

Authenticity

The area of historic monuments and the system of fortifications have a high degree of authenticity because of the small number of transformations and interventions. Restoration works make use of traditional techniques and materials.

The authenticity of the historical centre is, to a large extent, due to the continuity of a traditional family lifestyle, with manifestations of a rich intangible heritage, illustrated by local music, dances, cooking, crafts, and clothes.

Protection and management requirements

Legal protection is ensured by the 1972 federal legislation on Monuments and Archaeological Areas and by the application of regulations of 1975 under which all modifications to buildings must receive prior authorization. A Federal Decree of 1986 lists the area of historic monuments of Campeche and places it under the authority of the National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH), to function as a regulator and to authorize any kind of intervention in historic monuments within the historical monuments area the exterior and interior of the historical monument.

 At the state level, the Coordination of Sites and Monuments of the Cultural Heritage of Campeche was created in 1998 for the management and protection of monuments in the city of Campeche. In 2009, the State Secretary of Culture was established, leaving such coordination as sub office working in the dissemination of tangible and intangible heritage activities.

At the municipal level, a number of prescriptions regulate the conditions for carrying out work. Conservation is regulated by the partial plan of development for the municipality of Campeche; The urban director program, the regulation for construction for the municipality of Campeche, updated and published in 2009; the Urban Image for the municipality of Campeche and the Partial program of preservation and improvement of the historical centre and traditional wards of the city of Campeche, published in the “Diario Oficial of the State of Campeche”, on 18 March 2005.

Currently, the Congress, through the National Council for Culture and the Arts and the Ministry of Social Development, allocates resources to the municipality for the implementation of projects centred on restoration, improvement of urban infrastructure, urban facilities and services, among others. The city of Campeche manages and administers these resources through the Bureau of Urban Development and the Bureau of Buildings and Services.

 It is important to delimit the surrounding areas around the historical monuments of the city of Campeche and protect the traditional neighbourhoods of Santa Ana, Santa Lucia and Chapel, dating from the 16th and 17th centuries which were excluded from the Presidential Decree of 1986. It is also important to establish regulatory measures for the urban corridors that give access to the heritage area, for the improvement and maintenance of the property.

campeche mexico tourism

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CAMPECHE CITY

México » States » Campeche » Campeche City

Tourism in CAMPECHE CITY

Campeche City

Since the year 800 B.C. the Mayas flourished in Campeche and developed cultures known as Chenes, Puuc, Río Bec and Peten. In 1531, Francisco de Montejo founded the Villa de Salamanca de Campeche, and in 1540 his son who was called “el Mozo” (the youthful), founded the “Villa de San Francisco de Campeche”. During the colony the pirates assaulted the ports and the cities by the sea. This situation forced Campeche’s inhabitants to build forts, bastions and walls around the city.

Campeche is a city immersed in the typically colonial atmosphere with towers, bastions and walls. The traveler can enjoy all the city’s attractions on board of one of the old time vehicles replicas named “El Guapo” (the handsome one) and the “Tranvía de la Ciudad” (City’s Tram).

The state of preservation and quality of its architecture earned it the status of a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999. Campeche is famous for its excellent gastronomy based on fish and seafood, some of the famous dishes are: pompano in tin foil, grouper in its own juice, pan decazón, squids in their own juice,breaded shrimp, and Campechana style fish.

A short distance from Campeche are Sihoplaya and Seybaplaya, white sandy beaches with shallow and transparent waters. Its climate is hot and semi-humid with an average temperature of 75ºF.

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Tourist Attractions in CAMPECHE CITY

Since its foundation in 1540 by Francisco de Montejo “El mozo”, San Francisco de Campeche became the second most important port for the Spanish colony, only behind Veracruz. Reason why bastions were built to take care of the interests of the Colony. Campeche became a port of entry and exit for products from New Spain, which made it a target for pirates, buccaneers and corsairs from different parts of Europe.

Fort San Jose

In 1661, a flotilla of pirates under the command of Henry Morgan raided two Spanish merchant frigates and withdrew without a fight. Two years later, the Dutch corsair Mansvelt or Mansfelt attacked the Villa de San Francisco de Campeche, and left great damage to homes, infrastructure and people’s lives. As a result of these attacks, the Governor had to ask the Spanish Crown for help to build forts and thus be able to defend the interests of the colony. At that time the naval military history of Campeche began.

In the 16th and 17th centuries, its walls and fortresses began to be built, the first to be built being the “Torrecilla” which later would become the Fort of San Benito. Some time later, it was endorsed that the City of Campeche be walled, beginning its construction in 1684 and concluding in 1704, when the pirate attacks had almost disappeared.

The wall was 2,560 meters long and consisted of an irregularly shaped polygon with six fronts, four gates and eight bastions. It was also guarded by two forts built on the nearby hills. Currently only 500 meters of wall are preserved, two gates, two forts and eight bastions: San Juan, Santa Rosa, San Carlos, San José, San Francisco, San Pedro, San Miguel and La Soledad whose spaces have been adapted as meeting rooms. exhibitions with weapons of the time and function as museums and gardens.

Bastions in CAMPECHE​

Bastion of san juan.

His name is linked to that of San Juan de Dios, founder of the order of the Juaninos. This construction dates from the 17th and 18th centuries and has an area of 764 square meters. It is currently one of the only bastions attached to a wall, It is a unique structure that was part of the big wall.

Santa Rosa Bastion

Santa Rosa Bastion

It was the first to be completed of the eight bastions. It was named in honor of the first sanctified American: Rosa de Lima. It is a building that dates back to the 17th and 18th centuries, built with quarry stone and sahcab. It has a pentagonal base with an interior court.

It was part of the city’s defense system and was later used as a neighborhood. Its surface was 1,157.45 meters, it currently houses the Pinacoteca Campechana, which houses paintings and plastic pictures by Campeche artists.

Bastion of San Carlos

It was the first built in 1686. The home of the City’s Museum, with an interesting photographic exhibit of old times Campeche, as well as the walled city descriptive models. The name is in honor of Carlos II and covers 840 square meters. Today it houses the Museum of the City, with all the documents from the colonial era and later. It is said that the famous Dutch pirate Kornelius Jols arrived here, who attacked the town in 1633, commanding ten ships full of corsairs.

Bastion of San Jose el Bajo

The Baluarte de San José el Bajo, is the eighth bastion and received its name in honor of the husband of the Virgin and earthly father of Christ. It was located in one of the parts of what is now the Justo Sierra Méndez elementary school and was one of the bastions demolished during the first decades of this century.

Bastion of San Jose el Alto

Built in the 18th Century, in its rooms has a permanent exhibit of paintings, objects and models of the colony.

Bastion of San Francisco

It is located next to the bastion of La Soledad. This bastion was the largest with 1,342 square meters. His name pleased the Franciscans, since the clergy had to contribute their donations for the construction of these great works. In 1889, with the permission granted for the installation of the city tram, this bastion was demolished in its middle part, giving way to the rails that would lead to the Santa Ana neighborhood.

Currently, together with the bastion of San Juan, it is part of the sound and light show of Puerta de Tierra attached to this bastion. Once the part that divided it into two was rebuilt, a vaulted auditorium was refurbished. Built to protect the Land Gate.

Land Gate

Puerta de Tierra (Land Gate)

The Land Gate was one of the four accesses to the city, and its protected by San Francisco’s and San Juan’s Bastions, which are linked by long wall fronts that were more than 8 meters tall, where the quarrels between pirates and campechanos can be revived in a light and sound show named “El Lugar del Sun” (The place of the Sun).

“El Lugar del Sol” (The place of the Sun)

It takes place in the “Puerta de Tierra” of the Historic Center Plaza Principal, it tells the story of the city of San Francisco de Campeche, since the Mayans settled on the coast, the conquest and the pirate attacks. Accompanied by the guide of a watchman, part of the wall is covered to culminate with a play of lights, sounds and actors representing Mayans, pirates, Spaniards and Franciscan friars.

Bastion of San Pedro

This was the sixth fortification built during the walling of the city. It has a quadrangular-type floor plan, so its four walls faced the outside, and it still boasts the four sentry boxes on its corners.

Its access door shows on the lintel a shield with the papal tiara, which is the symbol of Saint Peter, and inside there is a small patio with a staircase that leads to the roof, where it is possible to see the sentry boxes. One of them had a bell that alerted the population in the event of an attack and another still has its latrine.

Bastion of San Miguel

The Fort of San Miguel is located to the west of Campeche. This work was completed in 1801 and has a drawbridge, guardhouse, officer’s room, gunpowder store, its access corridor is wavy, which prevented enemy access.

Built in the 18th Century has old cannons and the Mayan Culture Museum with an exhibit pieces of the prehispanic and colonial times. It is currently a museum that contains some steles that were found in the archaeological zone of Calakmul and Edzná.

Puerta de Mar (Sea Gate)

Sea Gate

It has a simple facade, in the big door there is a galleon carved in stone. It was the first of the accesses built and the first to be demolished at the end of the 19th century. For two centuries it was the entrance and exit for those who used the only means of communication at that time: navigation.

It lacked a moat and a ravelin, in front it had a jabín stockade. In the 1800s, two corridors and a portal were added that served to house the sentinels who guarded it, similar to the body of guards in the powder keg. In 1957 it was rebuilt, but it was not until 1997 when it was joined again by a stretch of wall to the bastion of solitude.

Bastion of La Soledad

Its construction dates from approximately the end of the 17th century and it was the third in the city’s defensive system, as well as one of the most important due to its proximity to the Puerta de Mar (Sea Gate). Built in the 17th Century, has remains of the wall in one side. Since 1958 there is a Museum with Archeological, Ethnographical and Historical pieces.

On one of its sides it preserves part of the old wall, the roundabout, battlements and sentry boxes. Access to the bastion leads to a large patio that served as the entrance to the different rooms of the building, where the soldiers were stationed and weapons and gunpowder were stored. On one side of the patio you can see the ramp that leads to the roof terrace and the roundabout, from where you can see the sea and the city.

Santiago Bastion

It was built in the 18th Century. This bastion was the last of the eight to be completed, its current form differs greatly from the original, which was similar to that of San Carlos, currently at the top of its entrance it reads 1704, although it does not exactly correspond to the date of the completion of the entire completely walled enclosure, this was completed shortly before 1710. The modest current construction houses a Botanical Garden called “X’much-Haltún” with an interesting list of plants from the region.

San Matías’ Battery

Together with the San Lucas battery, they defended possible landings towards windward, they were on the coast at the foot of the San José redoubt. It still retains the ramp that leads us to the top of its solid structure. In periods of high tide it used to be surrounded by the sea.

San Luis’ Battery

It was built at the foot of Fort San Miguel, on the leeward coast, in the last third of the 18th century. It is in a perfect state of preservation, unlike others that have disappeared over time. Its plant is rectangular and it is surrounded by a moat, two flown sentry boxes look towards the sea. It is currently protected by the Secretary of the Navy and can be visited as a tourist attraction in the city.

Battery of San Lucas

San Lucas’ Battery

On the foundations of this battery the wall that surrounded it was rebuilt. It was part of the windward fortification and is part of the set of new fortifications that by 1792 had already been completed to reinforce the Plaza de Campeche. Currently within its perimeter there is a neighborhood and only the exterior view of the wall remains as a trace of its existence.

“La Casamata y El Polvorín” (The Casemate and the Powder Magazine)

The Polvorín is one of the military buildings that was built on the outskirts of the town of Campeche during the 18th century. It was built on top of a small hill called El limonar, located just over four kilometers from the center of the town in a southeasterly direction. This building was intended to store gunpowder, and 160 meters from it, another for housing the officer and troops that guarded it.

The first building for the gunpowder store consists of a barrel-vaulted gallery, surrounded and protected by an open space in the form of an atrium, limited by a masonry wall, which in its northwest corner contains a sentry box with its corresponding loopholes. The second building intended for the accommodation of the officer and the troops, is made up of a terrace or patio with masonry parapet surrounding the rooms on three of its sides, composed in turn of a portal with semicircular arches and two more pieces.

All roofless and with its masonry walls. Near this construction is another smaller one. Currently, this building is completely rescued and enabled as a Cultural Center.

Religious Architecture in CAMPECHE

The cathedral of campeche.

Dedicated to Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception. It is the main Church of the Diocese of the same name, seat of the Bishopric. It is located in front of the Plaza de la Constitución of the city. The rank of cathedral was granted in 1895 by Pope Leo XIII. It is a baroque-style building with neoclassical features, famous for housing figurines of sacred art in its interior, highlighting a monument called “El Santo Entierro” that represents a coffin with the figure of Christ and that during Good Friday is carried by the main streets of the city.

The Cathedral of Campeche

Church of San Roque and San Francisquito

Built in the mid-seventeenth century (1634), based on quarry stone and masonry. Architecture with Franciscan modalities. Solid building surrounded by battlements, highlights a belfry that looks back and another in the front. It is of a single nave; with a beamed ceiling, it has baroque altarpieces, four altars, one of them central in Solomonic baroque style.

Church of Santa Ana

Built in the year 1735 based on quarry stone and sascab. The portal is made up of a main semicircular arch, with an iron gate and fluted pilasters on its sides, a coral window with a railing, a two-part belfry and battlements on the walls; the ceiling is vaulted with a single nave with a semi-orange dome; it has side chapels: the floor plan of the church is in the shape of a Latin cross.

Church of Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe

Its construction dates back to the last third of the 16th century and apparently was completed in 1660. It was dedicated to the cult of the Virgin of Guadalupe de Villuercas from the Spanish region of Extremadura, since there were many Spaniards from that region.

Towards the 18th century, the force of custom caused the cult to be transferred to that of the national Guadalupana. The temple has a very simple façade, with its semicircular arch at the access door, a balcony as a choir window and a bell tower on its left side.

Temple of San Roman

It was built towards the middle of the 16th century. It has a simple facade in a very sober style, the door is a semicircular arch barely decorated with discreet moldings and has a coral window above it. The enclosure is flanked by a simple tower with two bodies, the upper one with a clock between ogee arches.

Church of Saint John of God

Church of San Juan de Dios

It is the sixth fortification built during the walling of the city. It has a quadrangular floor plan, so its four walls faced the outside, and it still has four sentry boxes on its corners. Its access door shows on the lintel a shield with the papal tiara and the keys to heaven, which is the symbol of Saint Peter, and inside there is a small patio with a staircase that leads to the roof, where it is possible to see the garitons One of them had a bell that alerted the population in the event of an attack and another still has its latrine.

During the 19th century it played a very important role during the battles it had against the Mérida government and against General Santa Anna, its function was as a refuge for the troops as well as an ammunition and gunpowder depot. Possibly its purguero witnessed tortures carried out in the 18th century during the so-called Holy Inquisition. In this construction, a dome crowned by a lantern stands out in which a fire was lit as a sign that it was a hospital.

Church of San Francisco

Franciscan missionaries founded the first Franciscan convent in the year 1546 on the land of the indigenous town of Kin Pech, one mile from the Villa de San Francisco de Campeche, in the same place where the first mass was celebrated in the current Mexican territory around 1517.

Significant historical events took place in this convent, such as having offered hospitality to the wife of Martín Cortés -son of the conqueror of Mexico-, who gave birth there on October 31, 1562 to a man named Jerónimo, baptized in that place. by Bishop Don Francisco de Toral and having Don Francisco de Montejo as godfather.

Former Temple of San José

Undoubtedly one of the most beautiful in the city due to its façade, which exhibits a modest baroque style in which the use of Talavera-type tiles admirably stands out, as a complement to a decoration that as a whole offers a certain Moorish air. The building was erected by the Jesuits around the year 1716, on the site of another old temple dedicated to Saint Joseph, patron saint of carpenters and shipbuilders.

Former Temple of San Jose

Its interior has a Latin cross floor plan and only remains of its choir and a small gallery that were probably used to hear mass from the old annexed college, which the Jesuits built and which functioned until the date of their expulsion in 1767. Today the old temple building is used as a gallery for events and cultural exhibitions, while the adjoining building, where the school used to be, is today the Campechano Institute.

Church of the Dulce Nombre de Jesus

Built in the 17th century based on quarry stone and sascab. It is a solid building with thick walls, supported by buttresses and surrounded by battlements, some built in the 17th century and others in the 18th century. The façade is made up of a main entrance with a semicircular arch with a wooden door, a coral window and a two-part belfry. The building is surrounded by an iron fence supported by columns.

Church of Santa Lucia

This is a typical temple, with the Franciscan style that prevailed in most of the churches in Campeche. Its main façade has an access formed by a semicircular arch supported by Tuscan columns; crowned by a coral window and in the upper part by a belfry in a mixtilinear form in which four semicircular arch openings can be seen as bell towers.

On the sides of the belfry, pyramidal finials can be seen. The cover is of sober characteristics in stonework with lateral walls supported on buttresses. Its interior is very simple, it is a single nave with a vaulted beam ceiling in the form of a continuous barrel.

Civil Architecture in CAMPECHE

Library of campeche.

The Campeche Library represents an invaluable space rich in history and modern technology that makes one reflect on the magnificence of the city’s roots. When the Spanish settled in 1540 and named Villa de San Francisco e Campeche to this region, the governmental structure established by the Mayans changed, as well as its urban layout.

In this way the buildings that were erected around the square would be the most relevant for the population; political, military, religious and later commercial power. The second half of the 18th century, and in particular the historical cycle opened by the Bourbon reforms, meant for Villa de Campeche and its jurisdiction the beginning of an era of prosperity. The main powers were located inside the wall. Within which the annex stands out in 1779 according to the plan signed by Agustín Crame, of the Town Hall House, or House of the Cabildo, being the building of maximum political power.

Library of Campeche

Due to political changes, Campeche as an independent state from 1857, has to change its structure, so the Municipal Palace, which was the seat of highest authority in the city, is modified. With the title of city it is necessary to implant buildings around the square, and in 1858 Campeche needed a Government Palace to establish the executive power, being located to the right of the central axis. In this way, from 1962 the cycle of the colonial city ends to give way to a modernist one; the Municipal Palace, the Government Palace and the Maritime Customs are demolished.

It is during the year 2000 that the construction of the Campeche Library begins with the intention of rescuing its structure and recovering part of its former splendor; This is built on the north side of the Plaza de la Independencia in the Historic Center of the city of San Francisco de Campeche, a building with the same proportions and dimensions as the one that occupied the town hall since the 18th century.

In this way, the reconstruction of the town hall house is a contemporary work inserted in an old urban fabric that should have adhered to the pre-existing urban organization, respecting the historical and congruent parcel of the surrounding environment, through the architectural characteristics of proportion, scale, materials, color and ornamentation of the urban environment. All this with two specific objectives to create a space of cultural and technological wealth channeled to the Campeche community, so on June 5, 2003, the Campeche Library opens its doors.

Tram ride through the historic center and the city’s forts

Take a tour of the main sites as well as historical monuments of the city of Campeche Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Passing through the traditional neighborhoods, along the city’s boardwalk, on other of its routes you can also go to see “the forts” of the city: San Miguel and San José, both located on the top of the hill as faithful lookouts of the city.

Pirate ship “Lorencillo”

Take a tour of Campeche Bay, which hundreds of times was invaded by corsairs and pirates like Sir Francis Drake, the place where that ship departs from is perfect to taste different typical dishes and have a pleasant moment with family or friends.

Municipal Archive

Built in the 19th Century, first it was a school and then a prison. This archive has documents from the legal, administrative and civil memory of the city of San Francisco de Campeche, a collection that covers the 19th century to date.

The building, built on one level, has a simple facade with seven windows, two vertical and two horizontal on the right side of the access and three horizontal on the left side. The central gate is formed by an arch delimited by pilasters with a capital topped by a thin double molding and above this a cornice from which the two simulated pilasters and capitals continue, topped in turn by another cornice, which runs the entire length. of the permanent wall of cannons in the city.

Finishing off the central gate is a belfry in the shape of a bell with a molding that runs along its contour, inside there is an empty niche that ends with a limestone cross. On the left side of the main access there is a sentry box built at the time the building was used as a jail.

Carvajal Mansion

Carvajal Mansion

House built in the 17th Century with a Moorish style. Two-level building of aristocratic colonial design, built at the end of the 17th century. The main hall stands out for being divided by Moorish-type mixtilinear arches supported by Doric columns. A majestic marble staircase stands out, the railings of the stairs, the windows and the balconies are artistically forged ironwork.

Located on Calle 10, between 51 and 53, this construction from the early 18th century is an example, of the few that exist in the city, of the Arab influence, we can appreciate this by its multi-lobed arches that give it its own personality.

Musical Fountains on the Esplanade of the World Heritage Square in the Historic Center

It is an interactive musical fountain that allows unifying the height of the different torrents of water, as well as its design that evokes the concept of military architecture in the city.

Historical Center

In it you will find the most representative of the colonial era in each of the houses that with their sober beauty in their facades, showy gates and stately windows are unique in the southeast.

The architecture of the colonial times and subsequent periods represent more than 452 years of work, with religious buildings such as the Cathedral, the walls of Campeche are also testimony to the colonial era that revives and is breathed at every step through the streets of the city.

Cultural Center “Casa No. 6”

It offers a reconstruction of a typical house of the Campeche upper classes from the 17th to the 19th centuries. The house is on one level, consists of a gate framed by quarry jambs and lintels and crowned by an undulating molding in the form of a pediment, topped by a cross. On the façade you can see its four windows with dust covers, pedestals and huge wrought iron bars, characteristic elements of local architecture since the 18th century. It currently functions as a bookstore, cafeteria, craft store and tourist information module.

Cultural Center Casa No. 6

Campeche Institute

The Meritorious Campechano Institute is one of the Mexican schools with the greatest tradition. Founded in 1859, it achieved popularity in the second part of the 19th century and the beginning of the 20th.

Government Palace

This building represented in its historical moment, the emblem of an architectural renewal of this capital city, promoted by Governor José Ortiz Ávila, according to the modernist vision of the sixties.

Campeche Main Park

This work was carried out at the end of 1540 and had a remodeling in 1826, it was called Plaza de la Independencia, it was modified again in the 20th century in the decades of the 30s, 60s and 80s. Now it is a limited square with a fence of ironwork with six access doors of the same material. In the middle there is a 16-sided kiosk with eight entrances and 24 columns, the roof is made of zinc sheeting, crowned by a small dome. It is richly ornamented with natural vegetation that evokes the bucolic tropical atmosphere.

Bridge of the Mercedes (of the dogs)

Built in the 19th century (1888), by order of Colonel Francisco de Paula Toro and with the title of Merced de Santa Ana, under the direction of friar José de la Luz Solís. It is supported by an arch and four dog sculptures in the corners.

Building that houses the House of Culture

Built in the 18th century (1724), based on quarried stone and masonry. It has a cloister flanked by semicircular arches, which has a cistern in the center; it is roofed with log. It was built as an annex to the Church of San Francisquito, it functioned as a convent and later as a hospice. At the beginning of the 20th century it was used as the seat of the State Congress; later it was abandoned until 1976, when it was restored to house the House of Culture of the Campeche municipality.

Lerma Lighthouse

This lighthouse offers a view of Campechana Bay and for many years this lighthouse witnessed the construction of many shrimp boats that were exported all over the world, being the most important shipyard in the Gulf of Mexico at the time.

Campeche old lighthouse

Perched on one of the towers of the San José temple, is the most elegant lighthouse in Campeche. Of English construction, its installation dates back to 1864 and represents the first signaling of this type on our coasts. Its elegance stands out when observing the talavera façade of the Ex-Temple of San José. Its metal dome topped by a wind vane shows the elegance in the constructions of this time. Today, the old San José Lighthouse continues to stand out on the panoramic views of Campeche, to the delight of the inhabitants of Campeche and visitors who seek to explore the beauties of the Historic Center.

San Francisco Square

San Francisco Square

To one side of the Plazuela de San Francisco, built in 1737, is the Church of San Francisco. This square is characterized by having a tower with a clock made in 1861 and for being always lively at night thanks to the picnic areas. There are also the remains of the San Lucas battery, built around 1782, it remains facing the sea near the square.

Malecón (Pier)

This monumental work is a place of rest and family life. The boardwalk extends from the Justo Sierra Méndez monument to Joaquín Mucel avenue, with a length of almost 3.5 kilometers, and was inaugurated on August 10, 2000. It has two expressways with three lanes, a low-speed road with two lanes, three pedestrian crossings and a central median six meters wide.

It has a track for cycling and skating, one more for jogging, which go from start to finish of the work, as well as viewpoints where recreation areas were built that have become meeting places for families, who come to enjoy the sea breeze and the Campeche sunsets.

59th Street “Tourist Corridor”

59th Street is emblematic for its historical importance. It is the one that united the sea with the land and that has buildings of interest along its entire length, like the previous districts, you can enjoy it with its new clothing, its old houses, with the same facades painted with a range of pastel tones, which gallantly they provide shade both at dawn and at dusk, now that it is a tourist corridor, it offers passers-by the atmosphere of a city encapsulated in time, but alive.

Joaquin Clausell Gallery

The gallery is located at Calle 12 number 173 in the Historic Center of the city of San Francisco de Campeche, and honors with its name José Joaquín Quirino Marcelino Clausell, who was born in the city of San Francisco de Campeche on June 16, 1866. , son of Catalans, studied at the Benemérito Campechano Institute, and later, he studied law in Mexico City; he stood out in journalism, a branch that he took advantage of to expose his ideas.

Joaquin Clausell Gallery

He settled in Europe, where he was impressed with art and began to paint; returning to Mexico as an important artist. His paintings stand out for their landscapes and beautiful seascapes, such as the Bathers, Clouds over Crops, the Force of the Sea, among others.

Domingo Pérez-Piña Art Gallery

The Domingo Pérez-Piña Art Gallery is a cultural space that provides all the facilities for any exponent and that offers an adequate area for the benefit of the community.

House of Crafts Tukulná

The Casa de Artesanías “Tukulná” (House of Thought) houses exhibition halls with various types of natural handicrafts from the state, such as Tepakán pottery, hammock weaving, hippie hat making, etc. Dresses, books, preserves, wood crafts, stonework, not to mention the fine work done in bull horn, which, due to its similar consistency, is an ideal substitute for hawksbill turtle shells, are also on display to the public which is in danger of extinction.

It is a space dedicated to preserving the customs, traditions and expressions of popular art of the people of Campeche. You can buy the finest pieces, a product of the craftsman’s ingenuity and inspiration.

Ah Kim Pech Craft Bazaar

Inaugurated on August 5, 2005 in San Francisco de Campeche, the Ah Kim Pech Craft Bazaar is a space created by the State Government where artisans from the different municipalities of Campeche exhibit and sell their products directly. Located on the city’s boardwalk, the Bazar has 37 stores that represent more than one group of artisan producers.

The variety of Campeche handicrafts that can be purchased at this place at the best prices is very wide: hammocks, rocking chairs, garden hammocks, hippie palm hats, hippie palm curiosities, hand embroidery, machine-embroidered hipiles, jewelry bone and bull horn, shell and snail jewelry, utilitarian wooden objects, handcrafted aromatherapy products, preserves, creams, chili sauces, fans.

Theaters in CAMPECHE

Circo teatro renacimiento.

The Circo Teatro Renacimiento is a historical and cultural venue, located in the traditional Barrio de San Francisco, an area designated as Cultural Heritage of Humanity. In 1906, businessmen Cenobio Inclán and Rafael Alcalá Hernández had the idea of building a place that would allow all kinds of shows to be scheduled, thus the Renaissance Circus Theater emerged.

First, a wooden building was built, which was destroyed by fire, so a masonry building was built with the name of Nuevo Circo Teatro Renacimiento, which quickly became one of the favorite places of Campeche society. for the variety of shows and for the elegance of its facilities.

Circo Teatro Renacimiento

Between the 20s and 40s of the 20th century, different circuses, bullfights with distinguished matadors and constant programs of box fights were held at the Circo Teatro Renacimiento. It also functioned as an event hall, where both popular dances and civic events were held. The Famous Corona Caravan also arrived with singers, orchestras and comedians. Film functions of the so-called “Golden Age” of the National Cinema were included.

At the beginning of the 70’s of the 20th century, the Circo Teatro Renacimiento closed its doors and the building was abandoned for more than 20 years, until the Government of Campeche, through the State Coordination of Cultural Heritage Sites and Monuments , decided to rehabilitate it and return it to its former splendor, taking into consideration its great historical, architectural and social value, as the protagonist of an entire era in the life of the people of Campeche.

Now, the Circo Teatro Renacimiento has resurfaced to become the perfect setting for social and cultural events, to be a space where the past and the present come together for the coexistence and enjoyment of all.

Francisco de Paula Toro Theater (The Coliseum)

It is from the 19th century (1833), restored and modified in 1914. It is currently the theater of the city of San Francisco de Campeche, its exterior consists of a portico with four tall Doric columns and it is roofed with coffered ceilings, its interiors are decorated with balconies and wooden columns, saucer dome and wooden ceiling, its forum has a decorated arch supported by columns with fluted walls with wooden Doric capital. Theater 401 Lic. Ignacio García Téllez

It was built between 1966 and 1967 and inaugurated on July 27, 1967 with the performance of the play “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” directed by Mr. Manuel Ávila Cano. The architect Luis Arriaga López was in charge of the remodeling in 2005, reopening on December 22 of that same year. Plays, music, children’s shows, festivals, conferences, assemblies and delegation reports are performed. Joaquín Lanz Paullada University Cinema-Theater

Innumerable cinematographic projections have been made in it, as well as cultural events that promote art and knowledge throughout the municipality. It was inaugurated on July 1, 1967. Theater, music, dance, children’s shows, festivals, movies, conferences, assemblies and UAC administration reports are currently held.

Juan de la Cabada Theater

This cultural venue opened its doors in January 1989, since then it has been the venue for important plays and cultural events for the entire municipality.

Theater Hall of the Ministry of Culture

It is part of the facilities of the Ministry of Culture of Campeche. The space was adapted and inaugurated in January 2012.

Haciendas in CAMPECHE

Hacienda blanca flor.

It was built in the 17th Century and is located in Hecelchakan. During the Caste War, in May 1848, defenders of the hacienda successfully fought off Maya rebels. Blanca Flor boasts an elegant but evocative 18th century ruined chapel (above), set dramatically on a hillside beside the old Mérida-Campeche highway, across from the hacienda itself. Through its gaping pedimented doorway, the visitor can glimpse the peeling painted walls of the sanctuary, abandoned and untouched for almost 100 years. Today, the Hacienda works as a beautiful Hotel.

Hacienda Blanca Flor

Hacienda Uayamon

Located in Campeche, in the 16th century it was a cattle breeding area, but it was untill the 19th century when the hacienda was a real example of modernity using electricity, railway, and giving educational and medical services to the workers. Today it is a luxury hotel.

This hacienda was founded in the last decade of the 16th century, to be used as a livestock production center. In the year 1685 it was the object of a bloody looting by the pirates Graff and Grammont. These buccaneers also attacked the city of San Francisco de Campeche. Uayamón continued as a ranch, in the seventeenth, eighteenth and early nineteenth centuries, it managed to position itself as one of the most powerful haciendas in the region. The rooms of the Hacienda Uayamón have been perfectly restored and exhibit a mixture of its original architecture with more contemporary details.

Hacienda Santa Cruz

Located in Calkini, it used to be an henequen field, built in 1866. It still remains its wide central yard (garden), the facade, the engine room, the storage room, the chapel of “El Santo Cristo del Amor”, and the original orchard, where jipi palm is growing today.

Hacienda San Luis Carpizo

Located in Champoton, it was a very important hacienda in the area. Today, it is occupied by the Mexican Army.

Hacienda Tankuche

Located in Calkini, it has a French style, simulating a medieval fortress. You can appreciate a wide central garden, the main house, and the engine room.

Museums in CAMPECHE

City museum.

The walled enclosure began with the construction of this bastion. Its name is in honor of Carlos II, in its 840 square meters of surface, today it houses the City Museum where items from the Colonial era are preserved, such as cannons and armor used at that time. In its interior vault there is a prison known as “the flea market” where the prisoners were locked up.

Mayan Culture Museum

In what were the old rooms of the soldiers, the warehouses, the kitchen and the magazine of this building, today an interesting sample of the pre-Hispanic and colonial history of Campeche is exhibited.

Mayan Culture Museum

The magnificent ceramic pieces from various archaeological sites of the entity and the wonderful collection of jade masks found in Calakmul stand out. In the colonial part there are some pieces of furniture and scenes of daily life of that time, objects for domestic use and the remains of a beautiful rudder that was located in a branch of the Usumacinta River. In addition you can see a collection of ships and weapons. The final part is decorated with the symbols of trade and navigation.

Xmuch-Haltun Botanical Garden

The name of this pleasant site means in Mayan “water that springs from the earth”. The garden has an interesting sample of the entity’s flower, which includes a wide variety of plants, ranging from the most common to the rarest, which only grow in remote latitudes of the state.

Museum of Stelae Dr. Román Piña Chan

Housed in the old rooms of the old Baluarte de la Soledad, this museum exhibits an interesting collection of pieces and objects rescued from various archaeological sites in the entity.

The Mayan stelae stand out, some of great beauty and value. The pieces come mainly from sites such as Xcocha, Acanmul, Cayal, Edzná, Xcalumkín and Xculoc, among others.

Camino Real de Hecelchakán Museum

Housed in a small old house, it exhibits in five small rooms a simple collection of pieces from the Mayan culture, among which several stelae and ceramic pieces rescued on the nearby Jaina Island stand out. There are also illustrations and dioramas on the daily life of the Mayans and various historical events.

Mayan Architecture Museum

The museum has a display of diverse mayan objects. The Museum of Mayan Architecture (Baluarte de la Soledad) is a military construction from the end of the 17th century, it is located in front of the sea and represents one of the most important examples of the defense that the city of Campeche had. It is considered the largest of the eight that were built to unite the walled enclosure of the town of San Francisco de Campeche.

In 2005, this space was intervened, both in relation to the building, as well as in relation to the museum furniture, as well as in the contents of its speech. Its collection was enriched, reopening that same year with the name of the Museum of Mayan Architecture, Baluarte de la Soledad (formerly the Museum of Mayan Stelae).

Mayan Architecture Museum

It currently offers a rich sample that contains architectural elements that come from four of the architectural regions of the Mayan culture, with which the entity has: Peten Norte, Río Bec, Chenes and Puuc. In addition, as part of the collection that is exhibited, it is worth mentioning the presence of the funerary trousseau from Structure VII of the Great Plaza of Calakmul, the bench from Rio Bec, the stone sculpture of the Lord Main Bird, from Chunhuhub, as well as the Mask of the god K’wiil, from the Villamar ranch. You can see columns, jambs, lintels, stelae, panels and anthropomorphic figures from sites such as Xcalumkín, Edzná, Itzimté, Kankí and El Palmar.

Museum of Mayan Archeology

This museum is made up of two unique collections of its kind in the entire Mayan area, one consists of the jadeite funerary masks from the tombs of the Divine Lords of Calakmul and the collection of funerary figurines from the island of Jaina. Likewise, stela number 9 from Calakmul can be seen, with epigraphic records of dates, names and images of one of its rulers and wives.

Other significant pieces are the plate with the lid of an iguana, with a great content of religious ideas expressed in an iconographic way, and the bowl with a lid in the shape of the head of a Black Jaguar or the Night Sun, both excavated in the Becan Archaeological Zone. From the House of the Itzáes or Edzná, the stone sculpture in the form of a drum in which the image of a queen appears.

In 1963 the building was rehabilitated to install the Museum of Weapons and Seamanship. In 1978 its collection was replaced giving way to the inauguration of the Mayan Archeology Museum. In February 2020, after an intervention to the building and the renovation of the museography, it was reopened as the Museum of Mayan Archeology. Fort of San Miguel.

Ships and Weapons Museum

It displays a series of colonial weapons and ships traded during the pirate era. The old rooms, occupied by soldiers and lookouts, today house an interesting historical exhibition distributed in five rooms. Here the visitor will obtain a general vision of what the city of Campeche was like when it was completely fortified; old paintings and stories of the fearsome pirates who attacked the city several times; objects that were traded through the port, weapons and beautiful models of some of the ships that were used for navigation, trade and piracy back in the 17th and 18th centuries.

Map of Tourist Attractions in CAMPECHE CITY

More Tourist Attractions in CAMPECHE

Calakmul

Archaelogical Sites in Campeche

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Campeche - Isla Aguada

Campeche City Surroundings

Campeche is one of the states in the Mexican southeast that is worth visiting for its charming corners full of nature and cultural richness. Therefore, on this occasion, we present some of the most striking interesting sites in Campeche that will surely leave you speechless on your next trip. Take the best photos, fall in love with the best views, let yourself be surprised by its little towns full of history and learn more about the richness of this place.… Read More

Gastronomy of Campeche

Gastronomy of Campeche

The state of Campeche is famous for its excellent gastronomy, unique and original for its creativity, seasoning and taste. Its gastronomic personality is the result of its Mayan heritage, combined with the contributions of the Spanish, and even pirates and corsairs also brought new components and forms of preparation in the various dishes that can be savored in the region today. Campeche has a wide variety of seafood, which has been fully used in its cuisine.… Read More

Ciudad del Carmen

Ciudad del Carmen

It was founded during the pre-Hispanic period, and after the arrival of the Spaniards the island was populated mainly by pirates, it was known as “Isla de Tris”. Cd. del Carmen has an extension of 6,353.3 square miles and is surrounded by beautiful landscapes with tropical vegetation. Also known as the Pearl of the Gulf, the island lies off the coast and is connected to the mainland by two bridges over the Laguna de Terminos, one of them with a length of more than two miles is the longest in Mexico. The natural attractions along with the archeological sites and the European style buildings in town, convert the island in a very apealing place for visitors.… Read More

Palizada - Campeche

Magical Towns in Campeche

Among all the wonders of the state, there are also two of its magical towns: Isla Aguada and Palizada. Two ideal destinations to live under the colors of the sunsets, the beauty of its architecture and the legends of its streets.… Read More

Ecotourism in Campeche

Ecotourism and Adventure in Campeche

Ecotourism in Campeche is lived between majestic jungles and mangroves, fill your vacations with unforgettable adventures! If you are looking to reconnect with nature and live it to the fullest, you will love ecotourism in Campeche. Get ready to go through jungles surrounded by tropical jungle and Mayan culture, mangroves and petenes surrounded by rich wildlife.… Read More

Beaches in Campeche

Beaches in Campeche

Thanks to the natural beauty that surrounds them, and the low presence of tourism, the state has some of the most beautiful beaches in Mexico. Its sand, which ranges from golden to white, and the tranquility of its sea, are oases away from the big cities and crowds, where you can relax and enjoy nature.… Read More

Traditions of Campeche

Traditions of Campeche

Campeche is without a doubt one of the most beautiful and traditional States of Mexico. Campeche is located in the southeast of Mexico and borders the states of Yucatan to the north, the state of Quintana Roo to the east, and the countries of Guatemala and Belize to the south. The capital of this State is called San Francisco de Campeche and it is also the city with the largest population in Campeche.… Read More

Flights & Hotels in CAMPECHE​

More tourist attractions in mexico.

Ecotourism in Mexico

  • Ecotourism and Adventure

Mexico is one of the best countries for Ecotourism as it has a great variety of flora and fauna, as well as a large number of refuges for extraordinary species. You can enjoy recreational activities of appreciation and knowledge of nature through contact with it, such as: stargazing, observation of natural attractions, wildlife and bird watching. Throughout México there are more than 176 protected natural areas, 5 of them considered by UNESCO as Natural Heritage of Humanity. Just for this and much more, we believe that Mexico is a Paradise for Ecotourism.… Read More

Interesting Sites and Activities

  • Traditions in Mexico

It is practically impossible to make a meticulous, and above all, accurate selection of the places to visit in Mexico. Each place that our country houses is unique and beautiful in its own way. Mexico, with its nearly 2 million km², has a large number of scenarios to offer, as well as endless activities to do. Do not lose your way and enter the places to visit in Mexico. In Mexico, apart from the beaches and its famous archaeological sites, there are many other really interesting sites and activities that you should know. In the surroundings of the main cities you will find places full of culture and tradition, where you can spend relaxing, interesting and fun vacations. On your trip through Mexico you cannot stop obtaining souvenirs, the crafts that are made here are of the highest quality and recognized worldwide. A shopping tour cannot be missed.… Read More

Capital Cities of Mexico

  • Capital Cities

Folklore, gastronomy, literary culture, art and exhibitions, is what you will find in the capitals of the states of Mexico. To the north, colonial Mexico, Puebla, Guadalajara, Guanajuato, the Sonoran desert and the California peninsula. To the east Veracruz and the gulf. To the west Acapulco, Oaxaca and Tuxtla Gutiérrez. And to the south the Riviera Maya and the pyramids of Chichén-Itzá, Tulúm and Cobá in Yucatán, Palenque in Chiapas, the cenotes, and the Central American jungles.… Read More

Beaches in Mexico

On the Beaches of Mexico you can immerse yourself in the intense blue ocean of the Pacific bays, sunbathe on the shore of the warm and transparent waves of the Caribbean Sea in Quintana Roo or even rest on the beautiful coasts of the Gulf of Mexico. Mexican beaches hide wonderful secrets for the traveler. By visiting them, in addition to enjoying the excellent climate and water activities, you can discover splendid archaeological sites and interesting colonial cities without traveling long distances.… Read More

Gastronomy of Puebla

The Gastronomy of Mexico has a great diversity of typical dishes, which is why it was recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Heritage of Humanity. The basic and representative ingredients of Mexican dishes are: corn, coriander, chili, beans, piloncillo, nopal and tomato. Mexican cuisine is also characterized by its sauces, which serve as an accompaniment to traditional dishes, prepared based on spices.… Read More

Archaeological Sites

  • Archaeological Sites

The Archaeological Zones are the cultural past of every Mexican. You will be amazed at the ambient, nature and the environment that surrounds them. Climbing to the top or being around it will take us back in time to admire every detail. México is a country of culture and traditions, many of which we have inherited from the pre-Hispanic inhabitants of this vast territory, although it is true that there were more settlements in the central and southern part of the country, it is also possible to find some archaeological remains in the north. … Read More

Magical Towns in Mexico

  • Magical Towns

A Magical Town is a place with symbols and legends, towns with history that in many cases have been the scene of transcendent events for our country, they are places that show the national identity in each of its corners, with a magic that emanates from its attractions ; visiting them is an opportunity to discover the charm of Mexico. The Magical Towns Program contributes to revalue a set of populations in the country that have always been in the collective imagination of the nation and that represent fresh and varied alternatives for national and foreign visitors. A town that through time and in the face of modernity, has conserved, valued and defended its historical, cultural and natural heritage; and manifests it in various expressions through its tangible and intangible heritage. A Magical Town is a town that has unique, symbolic attributes, authentic stories, transcendent events, everyday life, which means a great opportunity for tourist use, taking into account the motivations and needs of travelers.… Read More

States Of Mexico

States Of Mexico

Mexico has an incredible diversity of landscapes, where the beauty of its beaches, internationally recognized, stands out. In its vast territory of coasts, there are beaches of unparalleled beauty, and colorful landscapes. A large network of first-class hotels and tourist services is available to visitors to these beaches. Mexico is also mystical places, dotted with archaeological testimonies inherited from its original inhabitants. Monuments made by the Mayas, Aztecs and Toltecs are located in magical landscapes, like lighthouses in an ocean of natural beauty. They offer visitors buildings that tell their history, and museums that collect their cultural heritage. And that keep alive ancestral traditions, in ceremonies and festivals, where you can enjoy cultural activities and entertainment.… Read More

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IMAGES

  1. Campeche, Mexico

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  2. A Traveler's Guide to Campeche City

    campeche mexico tourism

  3. 11 Fun Things To Do In Campeche: Mexico’s Rainbow City!

    campeche mexico tourism

  4. Campeche, Mexico Travel Guide: Things to Do in Campeche and More

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  5. Travel guide to Campeche, Mexico

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  6. 11 Fun Things To Do In Campeche: Mexico’s Rainbow City!

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COMMENTS

  1. The Best Reasons To Visit The City Of Campeche Mexico

    Here's a rundown of the reasons why. 1. There's maritime and Maya history to explore. As a thriving port on an important trade route, Campeche was the constant target of pirate attacks in the 16th century and was thus heavily fortified.

  2. 24 Best Things to do in Campeche Mexico: 2024 Local's Guide

    Admire the Iglesia San Juan de Dios. Things to do in Campeche. The church of San Juan de Dios is an altogether darker, more imposing, and Gothic-looking church compared to others in Campeche. It dates back to 1626 and was built with the dual purpose of serving as both a church and a hospital for the sick.

  3. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Campeche

    The cultural center is set in a remarkable yellow colonial edifice right on the main Campeche Independence Sq, next to... See ways to experience (3) 12. Cenote Miguel Colorado. 70. Bodies of Water. By WSix. It is possible though to access the cenote at the side of the utility shed and make the walk down to the docks.

  4. Campeche 2024: All You Need to Know Before You Go

    Campeche Tourism: Tripadvisor has 37,623 reviews of Campeche Hotels, Attractions, and Restaurants making it your best Campeche resource. Skip to main content. ... Campeche, Mexico. from $134/night. 2023. Hyatt Place Ciudad del Carmen. 431. Ciudad del Carmen, Mexico. from $48/night. Hotel Tucan Siho Playa. 145. Champoton, Mexico. from $78/night.

  5. 20 Best Things to Do in Campeche: All Places to Visit (2024)

    The sight of the colonial city of Campeche as seen from the walls 2. The city museum. If you want to learn more about the history and culture of Campeche, you should visit the Museo de la Ciudad. It is located in the Baluarte de San Carlos, which was the first part of the wall to be built.. The museum displays how the city looked like in colonial times, with models, paintings, and artifacts.

  6. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Campeche

    Nothing around to do around during in our visit. 6. Catedral de Campeche. 384. Churches & Cathedrals. By pthomas156. The first glimpse of this perfectly lit cathedral as you round the corner into the plaza at night knocks your socks off. See ways to experience (5) 7.

  7. 29 Best Things To Do In Campeche, Mexico

    One of the best things to do in Campeche, Mexico, to learn more about its past is to visit the Museo de la Ciudad. This museum stands as a true treasure trove of insights, offering a vivid journey through the city's rich and storied past. The exhibit will walk you through the city's past from Mayan times to the conquest, the Spanish ...

  8. Campeche travel

    Campeche. Mexico, North America. Campeche is a historical fairyland, its walled city center a tight enclave of restored pastel buildings, narrow cobblestone streets, fortified ramparts and well-preserved mansions. Added to Unesco's list of World Heritage sites in 1999, the state capital lacks a little of a 'daily life' ambience, as few people ...

  9. A Travel Guide to Campeche: Best Things to Do

    Although Campeche is the capital of Mexico's state carrying the same name, you would have never guessed it is so large when walking its streets. ... Every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday (check with the tourism office of Campeche if days hadn't been changed) the gate is lit, and visitors can watch an illumination show reminding us the pirate's past.

  10. 15 Best Things To Do in Campeche, Mexico

    Be sure to get up onto the museum's roof for a superb sea view before you leave. 5. Visit The Impressive Edzná Maya Site. About 50km from the city centre of Campeche lies Edzná, a primary archaeological site surrounded by lush green jungle, and probably one of the best-kept secrets in the state of Campeche.

  11. Campeche, Mexico Travel Guide: Things to Do in Campeche and More

    There are two forts in Campeche: Fuerte San José, pictured above, and Fuerte San Miguel. San José is particularly spectacular with its inlaid yellow entryway. Both of these forts are on the outskirts of Campeche — San José to the north, San Miguel to the south — so I recommend visiting them on your way out of town.

  12. Best Things to do in Campeche, Mexico

    Visit Centro Cultural Casa No 6. Marvel at the Museo de la Arquitectura Maya Baluarte. Relax at the Xmuch'haltun Botanical Garden. Cool Things to See & Do in Campeche at Night. See the Night Illumination Show at Puerta de la Tierra. Drink at the Best Bars in Campeche.

  13. The Best Things to Do in the City of Campeche, Mexico

    4. Take a sunset stroll along the Malecón de Campeche. Architectural Landmark. Almost as much as sitting in the zócalo, locals love a leisurely stroll along the malecón. In Campeche, it's a lovely long waterfront promenade that runs for miles along the shores of Bay of Campeche, which is part of the Gulf of Mexico.

  14. 22 Awesome Things To Do In Campeche In 2023 (With Videos)

    The 22 Best Things to Do In Campeche, Mexico. Best Things To Do In Campeche's Historic Center. 1. Wander Through The Colorful Streets Of Campeche's Old City. 2. Watch Life Pass By At Campeche's Independence Square. 3. Get A Glimpse Of Campeche's Opulent Past At Centro Cultural Casa No. 6. 4.

  15. Ultimate Campeche Mexico Guide for Travelers in 2024

    Campeche Mexico: Know before you go. 💰 Currency: Mexican Peso. ⏰ Time Zone: Central Daylight Time (GMT-5) 🗣 Language: Spanish, though English is common, and you may even hear some indigenous languages. 🎫 Mexico Visa: The vast majority of travelers do not need a visa for Mexico — this includes Americans, Canadians, Japanese and most ...

  16. The Backpacker's Travel Guide to Campeche

    The full name is San Francisco de Campeche, but it's often simply referred to as Campeche. It is the capital city of the state it shares its name with, and an up-and-coming tourist destination on Mexico's Caribbean coast. Campeche's colorful colonial city center is one of the cutest in all of Mexico, and was even designated a UNESCO site.

  17. Campeche, Mexico 2024: All You MUST Know Before You Go

    from $92 per adult. Visit The Walled City of Campeche: City Highlights + Museums + a Workshop. 0 reviews. from $505 per adult. Edzná in Colectivo, a Voyage Through History with a Local Guide. 0 reviews. from $34 per adult. Daylight Tour to the City of Campeche with Guide. 1.

  18. Campeche, Mexico

    Campeche is without a doubt one of the most beautiful and traditional States of Mexico. Campeche is located in the southeast of Mexico and borders the states of Yucatan to the north, the state of Quintana Roo to the east, and the countries of Guatemala and Belize to the south. The capital of this State is called San Francisco de Campeche and it ...

  19. Campeche, Mexico Travel Guide: Things To Do In Campeche And More

    Welcome to Campeche, a hidden gem nestled on the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico. This charming city is known for its rich history, stunning architecture, pristine beaches, and vibrant culture. Campeche offers a perfect blend of old-world charm and modern attractions, making it a unique destination for travelers looking to immerse themselves in the ...

  20. 15 Best Beaches in Campeche, Mexico

    Address: Caracol, 24188 Ciudad del Carmen, Campeche, Mexico. 7. Playa Isla Aguada. Credits: Bernard DUPONT/ Flickr. Playa Isla Aguada. This destination is remarkable for its fishing activities. However, its greatest strength lies in hosting a beehive of people searching for respite in the water.

  21. Historic Fortified Town of Campeche

    Outstanding Universal Value. Brief Synthesis. The Historic Fortified Town of Campeche, located in the State of Campeche, was founded in the 16 th century on the coast of the Gulf of Mexico, in the Maya region of Ah-Kim-Pech by Spanish conquerors. It was the most important seaport at the time and played a major role for the conquest and evangelization of the Yucatan Peninsula, Guatemala and ...

  22. Campeche City

    Campeche City. Since the year 800 B.C. the Mayas flourished in Campeche and developed cultures known as Chenes, Puuc, Río Bec and Peten. In 1531, Francisco de Montejo founded the Villa de Salamanca de Campeche, and in 1540 his son who was called "el Mozo" (the youthful), founded the "Villa de San Francisco de Campeche".

  23. Campeche

    Campeche (Spanish pronunciation: [kamˈpetʃe] ⓘ; Yucatec Maya: Kaampech [ˈkàːmpetʃ]), officially Estado Libre y Soberano de Campeche (English: Free and Sovereign State of Campeche), is one of the 31 states which, with Mexico City, make up the 32 Federal Entities of Mexico.Located in southeast Mexico, it is bordered by the states of Tabasco to the southwest, Yucatán to the northeast ...