campeche mexico tourism

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The 11 Best Reasons to Visit Campeche, Mexico

With most visitors to the Yucatán Peninsula making a beeline for the beach resorts on the Caribbean side, Campeche , which lies on the Gulf of Mexico coast, is often overlooked. But with hilltop fortresses, colonial-era architecture, buzzing nightlife and just-caught seafood, this richly historic port more than merits a stopover. Here’s a rundown of the reasons why.

1. there’s maritime and maya history to explore.

Architectural Landmark

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. Much of the defensive wall from the 17th and 18th centuries still survives, as do two hilltop fortresses that were used to spot and guard against assaults from the sea. They both offer spectacular views over the coast, and one of them, the Baluarte de la Soledad, also houses the Maya Architecture Museum, which is well worth a visit.

2. It boasts a Unesco-listed city center

A lot of wealth poured into Campeche in the 18th and 19th centuries, much of which is still on display in the wonderfully grand mansions dotted around the historic center. A beautiful main square, the Plaza de la Independencia, fringed with colonial stone arcades, also features a soaring cathedral and leafy central park where locals stroll, sit and shoot the breeze. It’s all easily navigated on foot – the best way to explore is via a walking tour; alternatively, jump on a vintage tram for a different view of the famously colorful streets.

3. You’ll find ancient Maya sites within day-tripping distance

Archaeological site, Historical Landmark, Architectural Landmark

This region of Mexico features some of the most impressive and best-preserved archaeological sites of the ancient Maya. At under an hour’s drive away, Edzná is the closest major site, and features a dramatic Great Acropolis and a five-level temple. The site’s lesser-known status means fewer, if any, crowds, and a serenity that really adds to the magic of these ancient ruins. The better-known Uxmal, with its famed Pyramid of the Magician, is also just a couple of hours away, while the mighty Chichén Itzá is a three-and-half-hour drive away.

5. You’re surrounded by some of the best beaches in Mexico

Natural Feature

Just a couple of hours up the coast is the sleepy beach town of Celestún, with a lovely long stretch of white sand overlooking the Gulf of Mexico. The whole area around here is a biosphere reserve, most famous for its seasonal flamingos. To the south is the still relatively unknown but beautiful beach resort and quaint colonial town Ciudad del Carmen. You’re also within road-tripping distance of the idyllic sands of Tulum, on the popular Caribbean side of the peninsula.

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.

6. The best places to stay are in storied buildings

Boutique Hotel

With such a well-preserved historic center, it’s no wonder many of the colonial-era residences have been converted into boutique hotels. The Casa Don Gustavo Boutique Hotel is one such place, occupying a charming 18th-century mansion that feels like stepping back in time. Another top luxury pick on the outskirts of the old town is the Hacienda Puerta Campeche , comprising restored 16th-century haciendas (farms) with a secluded pool surrounded by ancient stone walls.

7. You can salsa the night away on buzzy Calle 59

The ever-popular nightlife strip in the city is home to numerous bars and restaurants that spill out onto the pedestrianized Calle 59. It’s a great street to wander, choose a table and drink while soaking up the balmy, buzzing atmosphere. Friday night is when it really comes alive, with the promise of open-air salsa parties where everyone from novices to seasoned dancers wiggles their hips to lively local bands.

8. Get real local flavor at Mercado Principal

There’s nothing like visiting the main market in most towns to really immerse yourself in the sights, sounds and, well, smells of a place – and the Mercado Principal in Campeche is no different. Across the street from the Baluarte de San Pedro, this bustling hive of commerce sells everything from just-off-the-boat seafood to precarious piles of fruit and vegetables. Also, there are numerous street-food stalls here serving local specialties, such as steaming tamales and tacos.

9. Take a sunset stroll along the Malecón de Campeche

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.

10. Give praise at the Catedral de la Inmaculada Concepción

Church, Cathedral, Architectural Landmark

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.

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

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.

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

Adventurous Kate contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I will earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks!

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 .

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.

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

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 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

Have you been to Campeche? Share away!

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

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.

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

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

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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 .

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 !

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.

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!

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

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!

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.

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!

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.

• 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

• 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!

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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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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Yucatán Peninsula

Few Mexican destinations can dazzle you with ancient Maya ruins, azure Caribbean and Gulf of Mexico waters and colonial cities all in one fell swoop. Actually, there's only one – the Yucatán Peninsula. The peninsula comprises parts of Belize and Guatemala, as well as three separate Mexican states: Yucatán, Quintana Roo and Campeche. Quintana Roo is probably the best known thanks to the tourism mega-destinations of Cancún, Tulum and Playa del Carmen, where millions flock annually to get their share of vitamin D on brochure-perfect beaches or resort infinity pools. But head just a couple of hours west and you hit Mérida, the capital of Yucatán state, whose colonial architecture and contemporary restaurants are a satisfying change of pace, not to mention the many cenotes (freshwater springs) nearby. Neighboring Campeche state is home to mind-blowing Maya ruins galore. This entire compact peninsula holds wonderful, varied and accessible travel surprises.

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Attractions

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Tulum Ruins

Tulum is one of the most visited archaeological zones in Mexico and for good reason: it’s sublime. The ruins sit on seaside cliffs, high above turquoise…

Parque Nacional Isla Contoy

A white sand beach with manta rays gliding through the shimmering turquoise waters. No hotels. No nightclubs. No roads or cars of any kind. It’s hard to…

Wandering barefoot through the contemporary art museum at Azulik hotel, you feel like you’re in a giant cocoon. Nature surrounds you, inside and out:…

Museo Maya de Cancún

Surrounded by dense tropical forest, the contemporary Museo Maya de Cancún is a welcome respite from the beach and buffet lines of the neighboring high…

Reserva de la Biosfera Sian Ka'an

While floating down a canal that Mayans dug by hand centuries ago, you see tall grasses on either side and colorful birds flying overhead. You hear the…

Campeche State

Edzná’s massive complexes, that once covered more than 17 sq km, were built by a highly stratified society that flourished from about 600 BC to the 15th…

Chichén Itzá

Yucatán State & the Maya Heartland

Chichén Itzá, meaning 'mouth of the well of the Itzáes' in Mayan, is a stunning ruin well worth visiting for its spectacular, iconic structures and…

Quite unlike any other Maya city you'll visit in Yucatán, Calakmul was ‘discovered’ in 1931 by American botanist Cyrus Lundell, and is located deep in the…

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• Zona Arquelogica Edzna
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• 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
• Campeche: Highlights, Museums and Downtown Tour
• Petenes biosphere tour
• Half Day Private Tour of Campeche, the Walled City

The Partying Traveler

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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

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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.

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

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

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 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 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

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

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

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.

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.

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

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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19 Amazing Things to Do in Campeche Mexico + Practical tips

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If you are wondering what are the best things to do in Campeche and the best places to visit, this post will answer all your questions about this beautiful and often underrated colonial city of Mexico.

In this Campeche travel guide I will share everything you can do in Campeche city (also called Francisco de Campeche) and state of Campeche, how to move around, and all the practical tips you need to plan your own amazing itinerary in this amazing underrated Mexican State.

When I explored the beautiful city of Campeche I was on a Yucatan road trip, driving from Bacalar, which is also another amazing spot that you shouldn’t miss. More about it at the end of the post.

After Bacalar, I drove all the way north towards Calakmul and obviously explored that part of Mexico for a week to continue all the way through Campeche, including Candelaria, the Laguna de Termino, down to Miguel Colorado until I finally reached the multicolored walled city of Campeche

Things to do in Campeche Mexico

Campeche’s historic center with its old city walls is a Unesco World Heritage Site , since 1999 and it still conserves its ancient walls and system of fortifications, designed to defend this Caribbean port against pirate attacks from the sea.

I loved the unique vibe of this city and its historical feel.

I was walking through the chequerboard of the historical center, fascinated by the pastel-colored walls, the baroque architecture of the old buildings the unexpected creativity manifested in the interior design of coffee’ shops and restaurants, and churches.

Here below find all the things you can do in Campeche city and Campeche state.

1. Take a walking tour and learn about Campeche history

Its historic Fortified Town has been built by the Spanish founders when they realized that it needed extra protection from the pirates’ attacks.

In fact, being a harbor town and the second most important commercial center in the Gulf of Mexico, after Merida, made Campeche one of the most haunted cities by the aggressive pirates and corsairs in the Caribbean sea.

Later on, at the beginning of the 18th century, in order to reinforce the protection, another two forts were built in addition to the hexagonal walls, the redoubt of San Jose on the East Hill of the village and the fuerte San Miguel on the West Hill, as well as the batteries of San Lucas, San Matias and San Luis, examples of the military architecture of the 17th and 18th centuries. (SOURCE – UNESCO SITE )

Among other historical buildings, you must visit, Plaza Mayor, overseen by the magnificent Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, and several other churches, scattered around the historical center, the Toro theatre and the municipal archives.

The Cathedral of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception is, in fact, one of the most beautiful religious buildings in the Yucatan Peninsula. It is baroque in style, with two large towers, and was built in 1705.

The Museum of Sacred Art is also located here. Entrance to the cathedral is free.

A walk around downtown Campeche

A 2-hour walk around the city with a local guide. Starting from Parque Principal, we will walk through downtown streets, discovering and learning about Campeche’s history. The sites include House No. 6, Cathedral of Campeche, San Francisquito Curch, Sea Gate, San Carlos Fort, Soledad Fort, Tukulna, and Land Gate.

2. Sit in one of the cafes on the popular street 59

The historical center is brimming with pretty colorful streets and beautiful buildings, small restaurants, churches, and museums .

In particular, called 59 which connects the 2 main doors of the city, Puerta de Mar y Puerta de Tierra.

On the side of Puerta de Mar, you will see also the tourist office where you can get information on local events and things to do.

On the Puerta de Tierra, they normally have a night show on the weekend around 7 pm where local actors will narrate their history.

But make sure you check with the tourist office as they may change the schedule according to season. 

3. Enjoy the sunset from the Malecon, the seaside road that runs across the city.

Beautifully designed to favor runners and bikers, the Malecon (sea promenade) is a great place where to hang out at sunset, both because the temperature is bearable and you can enjoy amazing views over the Gulf of Mexico.

4. Browse around the local market

That was an experience, full of colors. The market is very crowded so watch the purse, but you will enjoy watching the locals chatting singing, dancing, and making deals over products of any different types.

The fruit and veggie stalls were my favorites, so nicely organized in many different patterns of shapes and colors and precise order. If you need anything…just go to the Market and you will find it.

5.  Stay in one of the charming haciendas

Right in town, by the “Puerta de Tierra” in Calle 59 is located the Hacienda Puerta Campeche , a Starwood Luxury collection signature.

It is a cute little jewel in the historical city, to make your stay even more enjoyable with a full immersion in history and luxury.

If you haven’t heard about the haciendas in the Yucatan peninsula , I have got you covered as well.

Similar to that within the same group of Haciendas of the Luxury Collection is the stunning and elegant  Hacienda Uayamon located at 30 minutes distance from the city.

6. Visit Fuerte de San Miguel

If you are not joining a guided tour, the Fuerte de San Miguel would be a great place to start your self-guided itinerary of the City. It’s in fact one of the most emblematic buildings in the city.

It was built in the 18th century with the purpose to reinforce the defense of the city against the pirates’ attack since the fortified walls were not enough.

Its rooftop used to have 20 cannons some of which are still there for visitors to see.

You can also enjoy an amazing view of the bay.

Inside the Fuerte de San Miguel, you will now find a small museum of archeology where you can admire a few stelae and other vestiges found in the Calakmul and Becan archeological sites.

7. Visit Xmuch’haltún Botanical Garden

Xmuch’haltún means, “water that springs from the earth” in Mayan language.

You will be able to admire a central fountain that feeds several canals leading to the plants throughout the garden for watering purposes.

The garden includes a large variety of tropical species and Mayan herbal medicine.

The most interesting part is the information about the kinds of herbs and plants that were used in the past for dying fabrics and thatching homes and other interesting functions. 

The botanical garden is located in the city center where originally the Baluarte de Santiago was situated.

It’s open every day from 9 am to 4 pm and the entrance fee is 20 MXN (1USD)

8. Visit the Centro Cultural Casa no. 6

Despite the odd name, this building is definitely worth passing by as it’s a great example of Campeche architecture in colonial times.

It’s now home to a library, coffee shop, artisan shops, and tourist information

Address: Calle 57, centro histórico, 24000 San Francisco de Campeche, Campeche.

Opening hours : from 8 am to 9 pm from Monday through Friday and Saturday and Sundays from 9 am to 9 pm

Entry fees : 20.00 MXN

9. Visit Mansión Carvajal

Another significant building that deserves a visit while you are walking around Campeche.

Mansion Carvajal is a beautiful house probably built in the 18th-century home of the landowner Fernando Carvajal Estrada and his wife María Lavalle de Carvajal.

He was also the owner of the largest hacienda in the peninsula, Uayamón , which is now one of the best luxury haciendas in the Yucatan Peninsula

On the second level you can admire its balconies with wrought iron windows and the letters “FCI”, which are the initials of the father of the great landowner.

Opening hours : from 9:00 am to 6 pm Location : Calle 10 s/n Campeche City

10. Take TRAM tour of Campeche

This fun tour is a ride on old trams that have been refurbished to take tourists around Campeche and show them all the historical landmarks of the city while a knowlegdeable guide shares some interesting facts about the history and culture.

There are different itineraries that you can choose from and they all leave from the Plaza Mayor.

The tour costs 100 MXN per person but they need at least 10 participants in order for the tour to take off.

Day trips from Campeche

11. visit the magnificent archaeological site of edzna’.

I believe the Edzna ruins are one of the most fascinating and mind-blowing of all, for the dimension and the logistics of their structures most of all.

Walking around those huge perfect buildings you will feel like being taken back in time.  Try it and let me know.  Sit on the first stairs looking at the main square and shout.

Hear the eco talking back to you. That’s the way they used to communicate with one another. Through perfect architecture tricks.   

What is the meaning of Edznà?

Itzá is the name of one population, the Chontal who were living in the city.

For this reason, the neighboring inhabitants refer to them as the “Itzaes”  and Edzna means Casa de los Itzaes (Itzae’s home). This site has been populated from 400 ad to 1450 ad. when it was abandoned.  

The archaeological discovery brought to light numerous painted facades that represented gods and mythological creatures in various colors, which reflects a typical architectural characteristic of the “Peten” .

Also, you can find hints of the Chenes, Puuc, and Tardios, all different lineages of the Mayan civilization.  

How to reach Edzna’ archeological site

The best way is by rental car and drive from Campeche to Edzna, which will give you the freedom to check out other sites in the surroundings.

It’s located 55 km south of Campeche you can get there by car through Route 180 and 261. It is well indicated.

Or you can get there by public transportation either from Champoton or Campeche. 

The other option would be to join a tour from Campeche . The advantage would be that you have a guide and transportation included and you don’t have to worry about the organization.

Also, it’s always a great idea to have a guide when you visit an archeological site since they will be able to share some interesting facts about the site that you wouldn’t know otherwise.

Join a tour to Edzna ruins

4 hour tour from your hotel to Edznà archeological site accompained by a certified guide!

12. Take a tour to Calakmul and Balamku from Campeche

Calakmul archaeological site and biosphere is one of the most magnificent and extensive to see while Balamku, located right in front is one of the most unique for it’s well preserved large frieze.

Both are quite far away from Campeche and if you don’t have a car it’s impossible to visit them in only one day.

This tour is the solution. I need to warn you it’s not for everyone. It’s a 15 hours tour starting from the 5 am pick up. But if you really want to visit Calakmul and you don’t have much time, it’s a great opportunity to do it.

▶ Read more about the tour and book it in advance

13. Visit Isla Arena

If you are interested in exploring a little off the beaten path, where locals go, Isla Arena could be a great destination.

Located at about 2 hrs and 30 minutes from Campeche on the way to Merida, Isla Arena is a small laidback fishermen’s town where you can relax on a beachfront cabaña and take boat tours to see the flamingos.

In fact, it’s only 40 minutes boat ride from the more popular Celestun home of pink flamingoes colonies.

In Isla Arena, you can also visit the museum of the Mexican Actor Pedro Infante and then relax on the beach.

You can check out Wotoch Ayin: La Casa del Cocodrilo for some kayak tours in the mangrove areas

On the way to Isla Arena or on the way back stop at El Remate, a natural pool with crystal clear spring waters surrounded by lush tropical vegetation where to relax or enjoy some of the activities offered.

It’s quite a popular place among locals so try to get there early on weekdays only to avoid crowds.

14. Visit Champoton

Champoton is one of the biggest towns close to Campeche situated on the Coast on the way to Ciudad del Carmen. There you can visit the spectacular Hacienda San Luis Carpizo if it is still open to the public.

It belonged to Don José María Carpizo, an agricultural producer and it was restored in 1999 by the Mexican Navy to house the Marine infantry school there.

When I was there I managed to get a tour from some of the militaries who were happy to show me around and share the history of the place.

Then you can enjoy a local dish in one of the seafood restaurants on the beach or if you love fishing you can book a fishing tour.

15. Spend some time on Playa Sabancuy

Campeche is not exactly a place that you go for the beaches. However, if you want to spend some beach time, Sabancuy has one of the best beaches in the area, with white sand and pristine waters.

You can also find some interesting snorkeling boat trips and other activities as the area is becoming more and more prepared for tourism.

Here you can also find nice hotels and posadas where to stay along the coast.

16. See the dolphins in Isla Aguada

On the way to Ciudad del Carmen, before the long bridge across the Laguna de Termino, you will find a small town called Isla Aguada, which translates to “watered island”. Odd, I know!

You wouldn’t have any reason to visit here if it was not for the awesome boat tour that local fishermen offers from the Malecon (seafront promenade).

It’s a 2-hour tour that takes you around the Laguna de Termino, a huge bay where a cute family of dolphins lives freely.

You will stop by a bank of sand in the middle of the lagoon to spot some birds as well and you can swim if you wish.

17. Visit the cenote of Miguel Colorado

Miguel Colorado is a surreal place located only a 2-hour drive from Campeche that is worth visiting if you love nature.

I visited Miguel Colorado during a road trip around the Yucatan Peninsula and I had a blast. I arrived in the small town of Miguel Colorado in the evening and I was lucky to find the only place to stay available at that time.

It was a nice cabaña with external bathrooms and it was kind of creepy at night because I was the only guest.

I arrived just on time for the sunset and I was offered a tour by a local girl to visit a bat cave. I was curious and I accepted.

She took me on her motorbike in the middle of a field and then we walked up to a hill at the edge of a huge cave waiting for the bat to come out.

When the night had come it was fascinating to see all the bats coming out and the owls trying to catch them for their dinner.

During the night I had a cat visiting me and spending the night with me which was nice but odd.

When I talked to the lady who was managing the cabañas the following morning and I told her about the cat, she smiled and told me that it was there to protect me from the snakes.

That freaked me out for a moment but I was happy to learn about that the following day and grateful for my random guardian angel.

Early morning I drove up to the Cenote and was happy to learn that I arrived right before two coach busses full of people.

I enjoyed visiting the cenote in tranquillity, swimming, and kayaking around by myself.

You can easily spend the entire day in Miguel Colorado cenote, and enjoy all the available activities, from the zipline, hiking, bird watching, biking, and more.

Opening hours – from 8 am to 5 pm every day

Entry fee – it depends on the package you choose and the activities you prefer. Starting from 200 MXN (10 USD)

18. Visit the Mayan Ruins of Xtampak

Located in the north of Campeche, Xtampak is the ancient city of the Chenes region. Its name means “ In front of the wall ” and it’s considered one of the largest and most important cities in this region.

It hasn’t been excavated as much as the other popular sites of Campeche like Calakmul and Edzna, but visiting it is still a remarkable experience.

Xtampak entrance fees

• Entrance fee: $65 MXN (US$3.5).

Mexican nationals and foreign residents of Mexico get free admittance on Sundays.

Xtampak opening hours

• Opening hours: 9 AM to 5 PM daily.

19. Learn how to make the famous jipi japa straw hats

I am sure you know the famous Panama hats, right? the one that is not made in Panaman but in Ecuador! I bed you didn’t know! Well there is also the Mexican version of it and it’s called jipi japa And the true original one is made in a small town of Santa Cruz in Campeche.

The art of making straw hats by hand has been transferred from generation to generation and they are still doing it the old way sitting in low chairs in caves. If you get there in the moring you may have the chance to see how they do it.

It’s on your way to Isla Arena so you can combine the two sites in one day.

How to get to Campeche

Now that you know all the reasons why you should visit Campeche let’s talk about how to get there.

Getting to Campeche by plane

There is an airport in Campeche but no international flights get there.

You will be able to connect in Mexico city though if you want to fly into Campeche.

Book your shuttle transfer from the airport to your hotel

Getting to Campeche by bus

You can get to Campeche by bus from Cancun, Merida, Tulum, Bacalar, and Chetumal among others, depending on your itinerary and where you are coming from.

Check on the ADO bus website for schedule and price. And you can also book your bus ticket online.

Getting to Campeche by car

Getting to Campeche by car is the best option if you have plenty of time on your hand and you love to explore.

You can book the car to be picked up at the airport where you are landing whether it’s in Cancun or Merida, and start your road trip itinerary from there.

I would just make sure you drop off the car in the same location where you pick it up in order to avoid high drop-off surcharges.

You could check car rental prices on Discover Cars platform where you can compare prices among different car rentals and find the best deals.

Discover Cars Mexico Review

Discover Cars is one of the most popular car rental for many reasons, among which:

✔︎ straight forward information ✔︎ full coverage add-on ✔︎ listing of different companies with reviews

The Best Mayan Sites to Visit in Campeche

Besides Edzna, situated only 1 hour from the city Campeche and the lesser known but very intriguing Xtampak there are many other incredible archeological sites in Campeche that are worth mentioning.

Since I have talked about them in another post I am just linking to the other page in case you want to learn more.

Keep in mind though that you will definitely need a car if you want to explore those places as they are located in remote areas that are not always well connected by local transportation.

I will also include the distance from Campeche for your convenience.

Balamku Archeological Site – 242 km / 150 miles Calakmul archeological site and Biosphere – 242 km / 150 miles Chicanna’ ruins – 288 km/ 178 miles Hormiguero – 318 km / 197 miles Xpuhil – 297 km / 184miles

Things to do in Campeche: final thoughts

As you can see there are so many interesting places to visit in Campeche even though it’s lesser talked about compared to other regions in the Yucatan Peninsula.

So make sure you keep it in your mind when you are planning your Yucatan intinerary, especially if you are coming during the day of the dead celebration.

Make sure you don’t miss a stop to Pomuch in that time of the year.

✨ Mexico Travel Planning Guide ✨

👉 do i need travel insurance to travel to mexico.

I would do it if I were you. You never know what can happen and know that no matter what, you will be covered with any expenses will give you peace of mind, and make your travel worry-free. You can check out SafetyWing which I have used and find it affordable and comprehensive and also Travel Insurance Master w hich is great because you can insert all your information and what kind of insurance you need and their system will pull out the best insurance for your need.

🚰 Can I Drink Tap Water in Mexico?

No, you can’t! Maybe in some areas or in some homes where they have installed water filters but to be on the safe side, I would say, never drink tap water in Mexico. Carry a water bottle with you and fill it up where you find available potable water sources. Most of the hotels have those.

🚗 Is It Safe to Drive in Mexico?

The short answer is: depending on where you are. Although in general if you stick to the main roads and don’t drive at night you should probably be safe. In lesser tourist areas you should probably check the local news to stay up to date. Driving in the Yucatan Peninsula is easy everywhere, even at night, although I would still avoid it. I recommend Discover Cars because the site offers the option to compare prices among different car rentals and you can add their own full coverage.

Read more on my guide on Renting a car in Mexico .

📱 Will My Phone Work in Mexico?

It will probably work, especially if you have a European or US phone, but your roaming rates may be to the stars (check with your SIM provider). Even if have an affordable international rate, you will be much better off by buying a Mexican SIM Card . It’s cheap, easy to set up, and it will keep you connected with your friends, family, and, more important, google Maps so you will never get lost!

🤕 Is It Safe to Travel to Mexico Right Now?

The short answer is, yes it is. However, there are parts of Mexico that are indeed troubled and you should avoid for now, and others that are super safe and easy to travel around.

Regardless of where you are you should always use some common sense rules such as, never flaunting expensive clothing, accessories, electronics, or money and keeping a low profile.

Read more on my detailed guide on safety in Mexico . If you are traveling to a specific destination I have got you covered as well:

• Is Cancun Safe?
• Is Tulum Safe?
• Is Puerto Vallarta safe?

💉 Do I Need Any Vaccine to Travel to Mexico?

No, there is no vaccine requirement (of any kind) to travel to Mexico

🇲🇽 Do I Need a Visa to Travel to Mexico?

If you are coming from the US or Europe you don’t need a VISA to enter Mexico. Once you get in you need to fill out a form that you need to keep with you until you leave. If you don’t have it you will pay a fine. Although the tourist visa for US and European travelers used to be 6 months long which you could easily renew by leaving the country for a couple of days and going back, nowadays they have been stricter. You may be asked how you would sustain your living and other similar questions. Sometimes they even ask you to show your credit cards. It seems odd but they can do that. If you intend to stay longer than a usual couple of weeks’ vacation time, just be honest and explain your plans. If you are not from the US, check this site to see if you need a visa

💸 Where Do I Find the Best Travel Deals for Mexico? 💸

A trip to Mexico can be expensive if you love to travel with all the comforts (like I do). There are a few tricks that will help you find the best deals. Here are my tips:

👉 DON’T travel in the high season, which is Holy week, Christmas and winter in general, and August. 👉 Book months in advance to find early booking discounts 👉 Use aggregators such as Discover Cars to find price comparisons and VRBO for vacation rentals! 👉 Look for packages flights+hotels on Expedia . 👉 Check on Booking.com or Hotels.com for hotel deals

Happy travels!!

Isabella is traveler and animal lover, a former tourism professional with an multinational background that lead her to Mexico, that she can proudly call home. After seven years in Cancun where she's still a resident, she took a bold leap, leaving her fancy job to embrace a nomadic lifestyle. She traveled all over Mexico, from Baja California to Ciudad Juarez, Oaxaca, Chiapas Hidalgo exploring and living like a local. Isabella founded Let's Travel to Mexico to help travelers plan their own trip on and off the beaten path in this beautiful land that she loves so dearly.

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

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 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.

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 .

Campeche City

Edzna Ruins

Calakmul Ruins

Isla Aguada

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?

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!

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

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!

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.

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A Mayan Temple-Filled Road Trip Through Mexico’s Campeche State

By Michael Snyder

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

All listings featured in this story are independently selected by our editors. However, when you book something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Of the three states that make up the Yucatán Peninsula , Campeche is both the largest and the least visited. It is home to one of Mexico's most beautiful colonial cities, exceptional food, and endless swaths of inland tropical forest studded with Mayan ruins. Good roads and a well-earned reputation for safety make it one of the best states in the country for a road trip , with ample opportunities for detours and pit stops at ancient temples half-consumed by the jungle.

The historic plantation turned hotel Hacienda Uayamón

A vibrant scarlet macaw, a common sight in the Yucatán

Any visit to Campeche should begin with a stay at Hacienda Puerta Campeche , a Luxury Collection Hotel, in the 481-year-old capital city that gives the state its name. Set within centuries-old fortifications, the tidy streets of the old town are lined with pastel-hued houses whose windows are thrown open to draw in breezes off the electric-blue sea. Inside the city walls, the barrios of Santa Ana and San Francisco are home to some of Campeche's best food. Have lunch by Parque de Santa Ana: tacos of cochinita pibil at Taquería Hecelchakán, or tortas de lechon (roasted-pork sandwiches) at Taquería del Parque. For dinner, La Pigua, in Barrio de Guadalupe, specializes in seafood, while the simple fondas under the arches at the Portales de San Martín are ideal for late-night tamales and icy coconut horchata.

Start early, driving southeast from the capital to the archaeological site of Edzna, where iguanas skitter across grassy plazas framed by meticulously restored pyramids. From there, continue south for about three hours to the community of Conhuas, and check in to the Hotel Puerta Calakmul ecolodge, a cluster of cabins at the edge of the Calakmul Biosphere Reserve. After lunch at the hotel's restaurant, visit Balamku, a small archaeological site just northwest of Conhuas, to see one of the best-preserved Mayan friezes. Time and energy permitting, use the remainder of the day to explore the ruins of Becán, where covered passageways and a tight urban layout give the rare sense of what Mayan daily life was like, and nearby Chicanná, famous for its ornate façades.

Chile peppers for sale at a market in the capital city Campeche

An ancient ceiba tree at Hacienda Uayamón

Wake before dawn to the sound of howler monkeys and drive 90 minutes south through virgin forest to Calakmul, once a rival to Tikal in Guatemala and awmong the mightiest cities of the classical Mayan world. At the archaeological site, a vast network of pathways winds through the jungle between plazas and soaring pyramids, whose peaks rise like mountains above the canopy. Spend a few hours here before returning, invigorated and exhausted, to your room at Hotel Puerta Calakmul for a siesta. Then, as the sun dips low, drive four and a half miles east to a cave hidden just off the road and watch millions of bats spiral into the evening sky.

There are several routes back toward the capital, the most interesting of which passes a half-dozen Mayan sites where you'll encounter few other visitors. Stop at Xpujil, with its magnificent three-towered temple, before turning north off the main road and cutting through nearly 90 miles of virtually uninterrupted greenery. (If you have a couple of extra days, look into staying at Indigenous villages that are a part of the peninsula's community-tourism network). The road eventually turns west through the town of Dzibalchen, passing the marvelous ruins at Hochob, whose elaborate geometric carvings are among the finest examples of the Rio Bec architectural style, sometimes dubbed Mayan Baroque. By evening, you'll arrive at one of the Yucatán's best hotels, the Hacienda Uayamón , located a short distance outside the capital. Set in a former plantation for henequén, the agave fiber that powered the peninsula's formidable economic engine until the 20th century, it makes for a refined and peaceful last stop.

This article appeared in the September/October 2021 issue of Condé Nast Traveler. Subscribe to the magazine here .

Recommended

Hacienda Puerta Campeche, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Campeche

Etéreo, Auberge Resorts Collection

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11 Fun Things To Do In Campeche: Mexico’s Rainbow City!

Posted on Last updated: December 15, 2023

Categories Mexico

Expert travel storyteller Jordan Adkins, founder of InspiredByMaps.com, brings a decade of adventures across 101 countries and 450+ UNESCO sites into rich, off-the-beaten-path narratives, melding ecological expertise with genuine, seasoned travel insights. His full bio can be found here.

Campeche – a stunning colonial UNESCO World Heritage site in Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula – is like something straight out of a fairy tale, complete with pirates, beautiful mansions, and old-world forts to protect the damsel in distress.

Located on the opposite side of the Peninsula, but seemingly a world away from Cancun , Tulum , and the Maya Rivera, Campeche stands in stark contrast as a place where the world slows down, authenticity is rife, and locals can be seen going about their daily life.

The main attraction here, and that through which Campeche earned it’s UNESCO designation, is the historic old town with outer walls and fortifications designed to defend the Caribbean port for the omnipresent Pirate attacks in the 17 th and 18 th century.

While the main wall was completed too late in the game to protect the city for the worst of the attacks, today, most of the fortified baluartes (bastions or bulwarks) have survived to make for a great way to re-enact your Pirates of the Caribbean fantasies!

Within the old town, every building has been painstakingly restored to pristine pastel perfection. In essence, all the muted colors of the rainbow are on display here, and just walking the narrow cobblestone streets will inspire you to grab your camera at every turn.

With well over 2,000 historic buildings protected and returned to original condition, the historical center itself is enough reason to visit. Still, just outside the city walls, you can get your typical Mexican big city fix, with a crazy market, tranquil malecón (seaside walk), intriguing street art, and shopping malls if you need it.

Back inside the old town, it seems international tourists have not yet figured out the secret of Campeche – so prices remain low and everyday life continues. Domestic tourism and the relaxed lifestyle on offer provide just enough drive for dozens of eateries, bars, and cafes (all of which were unexpectedly high quality) that are dotted around the town and its central street.

An absolute must-see place on any trip to Mexico – here are 11 fun things to do in Campeche Mexico to convince you that you just have to go to Mexico’s Rainbow City!

Page Contents

1. Marvel At The Museo De La Arquitectura Maya

2. get snap happy with all the architecture and churches, 3. reminisce about the past at casa 6 historic museum, 4. enjoy the sunsets which seem to last for hours, 5. indulge in fine dining and relax in quaint cafés, 6. transport yourself back in time at edzná, 7. get off the beaten track at fuerte de san miguel, 8. enact your pirate fantasies – atleast for an evening, 9. wander the old city wall (and keep an eye out for pirate attacks), 10. learn more about campeche’s history at the museo de la ciudad, 11. explore modern street art in campeche’s new town.

An unexpected treasure that at only 30 pesos is a steal for the wide variety of Mayan antiquities and stelae stores on offer here from all over the Peninsula. Well-explained and jam-packed, this small museum is also housed in an old part of the city wall, so don’t forget to head up top afterward for an incredible view.

A great introduction to Mayan culture and their written language yet detailed enough for those who have already visited a few ruins to find something of interest.

Just wandering these storied streets leaves you in awe. Not only because of the sheer variety of pastel colors Campeche seems to have assembled but also due to the gorgeously preserved mansions, you’ll get glimpses of through iron bars. Then there are all the glorious churches you can wander through, most of which are eerily empty today but whose decorations hark back to a time when money, gold, and trade thrived here.

Catedral de Nuestra Señora de la Purísima Concepción is probably the most stand-out building in the city, with its baroque façade and uncharacteristically austere interior.

This beautiful limestone structure towers over the town and reminds it’s citizens who are number one. However, pack your camera and hit the streets, and you are sure to find your own favorite building – there are over 2,000 to choose from after all! Wandering these streets is easily one of my favorite things to do in Campeche Mexico.

A glimpse into high society and what was once the cities most prestigious address, across the green plaza from the Campeche Cathedral. A typical upper-class house from the pre-revolutionary era, you can learn more about the cities changing fortunes and global trade relations here through the furniture on display.

Only USD 2 a visit it is well worth it, though one gets the feeling you could see much of this by walking into any of the local houses in the area – which speaks only to how well the town has preserved its heritage.

A small patio at the back is great to enjoy a book – which coincidentally can be brought from the small boutique bookshop here with everything Campeche related you could ever imagine…and then some!

With a unique position on the Yucatan peninsula, Campeche is granted those ‘to-die-for’ sunsets that the Mayan Rivera and Cancun can never have. Full of deep reds, oranges, and yellow every night is a unique piece of art that you would do well to take time to appreciate.

While the sterile malecón by the seaside seems to be a favorite amongst locals to view this masterpiece, I preferred the most intimate and relaxed surround’s afforded by H177 Hotel’s exclusive rooftop terrace.

For guests only, I can also highly recommend this hotel (and you can read my H177 Hotel Campeche Review here) not only for its staff, rooms, and price – but also for its rooftop lounging to appreciate the sunset every night which seems to go for hours! So really, one of the best things to do in Campeche is to sit back, relax and enjoy the show!

As previously mentioned, the variety of dining establishments in Campeche is likely to bewilder – if not outright blow away, and there is something for everyone. From fine-dining and steakhouses to quiet cocktail bars, delicious pizzerias, and lounge-able cafés.

I was in foodie heaven (or at least a food coma for most of the time!). I happened to be there during the cities famous restaurant week, so I was able to sample plenty of dishes. I loved everything – but my favorites would have to be Luan Café , Café Sotavento , La Parrilla Colonial for something a bit more upscale, or Casa Vieha del Rio for a great cocktail and unbeatable view of the Campeche Cathedral.

If you are ever stuck for inspiration, Calle 59 houses the cities dining precinct, is closed to traffic, and has plenty of outdoor seating for food inspiration. The must-try food of this region, or the typical campechano dish, is undoubtedly pan de cazón – an intriguing layered tortilla contraption complete with minced shark meat straight from the city harbor, beans and a heavy dose of tomato sauce.

Also, try camaron de coco (prawns in coconut) or horchata de coco (rice and coconut drink), and in no time, you’ll fit in with the locals.

!Buen provecho!

The closest Mayan Ruins to Campeche – this site, while not UNESCO listed, covers over 17 square kilometers and was in use for over 2,000 years, from 600 BC all the way through to the 15 th century! While lacking the fame of Palenque , Tikal , or Chichen Itza , this also has it’s own advantages as you can wander practically free of tourists and wonder what led to this great cities decline and eventual abandonment.

For serious ruin buff’s UNESCO listed Uxmal is only a 2-hour bus trip away and can be done on the way to or from Merida – the biggest city in the Yucatan, but for now, we are still focused on things to do in Campeche Mexico!

Not only did those colonial Spanish seek to wall up Campeche in its heyday as protection for pirates, but they also rushed to develop secondary defenses, including Fuerte de San Miguel, about 2 kilometers south of the city along the coast. The views and sunsets along here are to die for – up on a hill looking out across the empty blue ocean, but the Fort itself remains a highlight complete with a large (empty) moat, a drawbridge, and large stone walls that still keep any intruders out.

If you can’t bear the heat of the middle of the day visit, the Fort also houses the excellent Museo Arqueológico de Campeche that contains many Mayan pieces of art from Calakmul and Edzná – including burial art, jewelry, and a jade mask. Don’t ask me why they decided to house it here and not in the cities Mayan museum, but it is definitely worth a peek!

A taxi from the center city is 50 pesos or a bus that plies the main highway below is 7 pesos. Also, be sure to combine with the below Campeche attraction.

While the golden age of piracy in the Caribbean may long be gone – tourists and locals alike can still live out their buccaneering fantasies on weekends in Campeche with a unique city tour from the ocean on a real Pirate ship at sunset. After that, head back into the old town for the quirky and adventurous ‘pirate light show’ at  the Puerta de Tierra (Land Gate). Here most nights, visitors are treated to pyrotechnics show, a history lesson (in Spanish) and a rather eery walk on the city walls at night.

For extra authenticity, head to one of the many bars around after for some rum and grog! The Pirate Ship leaves at 5 pm from the seafood restaurant El Faro del Morro just underneath the San Miguel Fort on Saturday and Sunday nights, and the Pirate show in Campeche starts at 8 pm on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.

Whether or not you have children, the Campeche show is one of the most fun things to do in Campeche, Mexico!

 As one of the largest trading ports in the New World, Campeche was constantly under pirate attack. One of the worst was the Sacking of Campeche in 1663 by over 20 ships (the biggest pirate attack in history!) that sent shockwaves around the world and forced King George of England to cease all state-sponsored piracy – though buccaneering continued in a private capacity.

Still, after this assault, the King of Spain was forced to construct Campeche’s now famed walls to protect the city, which took over 50 years to construct. At over 2 kilometers long and 8 meters wide, they made the city practically impregnable. Fortunately, they were never really tested after this, and today 7 of the eight bastions of the wall remain (along with two sections of the wall).

Each of the bastions houses some small museum that is worth checking out, and one house the Jardín Botánico X much Haltún (a Botanical Garden), which I thought was incredibly unique.

A free museum in the main square, the Museum of the City Campeche, has been recently renovated. It now houses a very modern showcase of the cities history from the Mayan times, through conquest, colonization, pirate attacks, and through to Campeche’s rivalry with Merida and Campeche’s role in Mexican Independence. Highlights are some of the period clothes, scale replica’s of Campeche during different eras, a reconstructed room of a ship, and several muskets and antiques. The major texts are also in English!

While inside the picture-perfect old town of Campeche, you will only find pastel colors adorning the exteriors of buildings; if you take a little time, the urban art of Campeche will both delight and surprise. Always changing and hard to pin down, one of my favorites the modern art-deco artwork in front of the uninspired and out-of-place Palacio de Gobierno (Government Palace) on the edge of town.

Be sure to keep your eye on the giant canvases in the sky that are the sides of new buildings outside of town, or peak into empty parking lots or alleys to see what awaits you. 

While the street art here doesn’t begin to rival the works found in Mexico City , or elsewhere in Latin America like Medellin , Buenos Aires and Sao Paulo , the mere presence of these brightly colored murals in a quiet ‘backwater’ town says a lot. It tells you Campeche is fun, forward-thinking, creative, looking to the future and a place for those who enjoy seeking out the secrets of a destination rather than having them presented in a neat package for mass consumption. 

Above all, Campeche is modest –  which makes every discovery all the more delightful!

The UNESCO Listed Old Town of Campeche remains one of Mexico’s best-kept secrets – a rainbow city on the Yucatan Peninsula largely unfrequented by international tourists who opt for garish Cancun instead.

This inaction and relative anonymity amongst fellow travelers leaves a picturesque colonial town, with pastel mansions and narrow cobblestone streets there for the taking – for those who will make the journey here – just as it did for Pirates for many centuries.

These 11 things to do in Campeche will help you discover one of Mexico’s best-kept secrets and hopefully help show you all the best things to do in Campeche Mexico – but of course, there are always more things waiting to be discovered by those who take the time to come and experience Campeche. A real colonial wonder, the Old Town of Campeche, has something for everyone.

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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

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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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CAMPECHE CITY

México » States » Campeche » Campeche City

Tourism in 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.

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.

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

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.

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)

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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.

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 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.

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).

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

Archaelogical Sites in Campeche

The centers of the cities were filled with foundations for the temples, palaces, ball courts, astronomical observatories and rooms; like those seen in the Campeche Petén, the Puuc region, that of Los Chenes, that of Río Bec and that of the rivers and lagoons.… Read More

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

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

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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 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

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

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Flights & Hotels in CAMPECHE​

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• Animal Rescue in Mexico

Welcome to Campeche

Rent a car or moto to move around Campeche and its surroundings more comfortably by dismissing predicament and avoiding traffic jams.

Searching for where to stay in Campeche or surrounding towns? Check these hotels and hostels in Campeche for all budgets and all tastes.

Campeche is known for its gastronomy, deliciously diverse cuisine. Check out these bars, cafes, and restaurants in Campeche and around.

Discover the best nightclubs and bars in Campeche. Here are some of the places for rambling around the town, letting loose, and dancing.

Find popular guided tours and excursions in Campeche and its surroundings. Book your transfer from the airport to Campeche or vice versa.

Language schools and other educational institutions and centers offering Spanish language courses and cultural programs in Campeche, Mexico.

Bastion – Baluarte de San Francisco

Bonita Beach

Campeche Cathedral

Campeche City Walls

Fuerte de San Miguel

Malecon de Campeche – Seaside promenade

Novia del Mar Monument

Puerta de Tierra

500 years of history.

Originally, the Spaniards lived inside the walled city, while the natives lived in the surrounding barrios, which still retain their original churches and buildings.

UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE

Campeche retains many of the centuries-old colonial Spanish city walls and fortifications which protected this port city (although not always successfully) from pirates and buccaneers’ assaults. The history and the state of preservation and quality of its architecture earned Campeche City the status of a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999.

1-DAY EXCURSIONS FROM CAMPECHE CITY

Ciudad del Carmen

  Pre-Columbian era

Campeche retains many of the old colonial Spanish city walls and fortifications which protected this port city from pirates and buccaneers’ assaults. Its architecture earned Campeche City is UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999.

Read more..

  The legend of the foundation

More than one thousand buildings with a historic value have survived as witnesses of space and temporal superimposition of several significant historic periods of Mexico. Due to the constant attacks of buccaneers and pirates such as Francis Drake, John Hawkins, Laurens de Graaf, Cornelis Jol, Jacobo Jackson, Jean Lafitte, Francisco de Grammont, Bartolomé Portugués, William Parker, Francisco Nau, Edward Mansvelt, Henry Morgan, Lewis Scot, Roche Braziliano and Michel de Grammont for almost 160 years, in 1686, the government started to fortify the city.

READ MORE ABOUT CAMPECHE

Things to do in Campeche, Mexico

Is Campeche City worth visiting?

Best time to visit Campeche

What to do in Campeche in one day trip?

What is campeche city best known for.

History and timeline

CAMPECHE ON GOOGLE MAPS

Is Campeche Safe? Your 2024 Guide by a Local

Is Campeche safe to travel to in 2024? Safety is likely to be at the forefront of your mind if you are planning a trip to the southeastern Mexican state of Campeche. 

(Safety is one of the main concerns for people traveling to Mexico, period. It’s a place that people are often concerned about visiting). 

The state is one of three that make up the Yucatan tristate peninsula. 

(This consists of Campeche, the Yucatan state, and Quintana Roo). This region is ultra popular with tourists and is known for being one of the safest parts of the country that you can travel to. 

However, at the same time, Campeche is the least visited state in the region. Campeche is both the name of the state and its capital city (Campeche city). 

So is Campeche safe to travel to? Absolutely yes! 

This article has been written by a British Travel Writer based in Merida, Mexico . I have traveled to Campeche numerous times – both with friends and as a solo female traveler. 

It will run through all the things that you need to consider before you travel to Campeche, and how to stay safe during your trip. 

Table of Contents

Is Campeche Safe to Travel to in 2024? 

Campeche is generally a very safe place to travel. Use the same common sense precautions here as you would at home or when traveling anywhere else and you will be fine. 

The U.S. Department of State awards a safety rating to each of the 32 Mexican states based on any perceived risks or dangers. Campeche state and the Yucatan state have been identified as the two safest states in the country. 

The official advice is to “Exercise normal precautions when traveling to Campeche. There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Campeche state.” 

This should be reassuring if you are concerned about traveling to the region. Other states have been flagged as places to “exercise increased caution” and “reconsider travel”. 

A handful of Mexican states are on the “do not travel” list. The safety situation varies from state to state in Mexico and various government travel advisories differentiate between them. 

The UK government travel advisory also recognizes Campeche as a safe place to travel. 

Crime rating in Campeche 

Crime levels are low in Campeche. This includes both violent crimes as well as petty crimes like bag-snatching, pickpocketing, etc. 

Numbeo index provides a safety rating out of 100 to assess how safe or dangerous various global cities are. 

Campeche has a rating of 27.08 out of 100 which is low. By comparison, New York City has a “moderate” rating of 53.44 as does Los Angeles with a rating of 59.57. 

When comparing crime rates in Campeche to those in other Mexican cities, Guadalajara has a high crime rate of 73.74 and Chihuahua has a high crime rate of 69.7. 

Tips for staying safe in Campeche 

Some practical tips to help you stay safe during your time in Campeche are detailed below. 

Safety in Campeche City 

Despite the fact that Campeche City is the capital of Campeche state, it has a very small-town feel about it. The city has a population of just under a million people. (928,363 residents)

Campeche was a super important trading port during the Spanish occupation in the 17th century. From here, dyewood, salt, and other goods were transported across the world. 

Campeche was the capital of the Yucatan peninsula on several occasions. It then became the capital of the new Campeche state in 1863. 

Today the historic center of Campeche is UNESCO protected. It is one of the most beautiful colonial cities in Mexico. 

The pastel-colored houses and narrow cobbled streets and passageways here are a photographer’s dream. Campeche’s strategic importance as a Spanish trade port made it a target for attacks from pirates and other invaders. 

As such, numerous fortresses and defensive walls were built around the city. These still exist today and are a highlight of visiting. 

You can walk along the bastions of the old defensive walls. At night, fabulous light and sound shows portraying the history of Mexico are projected onto them. 

The fortress of San Jose (Fuerte de San Jose el Alto) sits high on a hilltop and offers incredible panoramas over the city and the Gulf of Mexico. You can also visit the underwater archeology museum inside. 

Public transport in Campeche state 

One thing to keep in mind about Campche being the least-visited state in the Yucatan peninsula? The tourism infrastructure in the area isn’t quite where it needs to be yet. 

Public transport exists here and it is okay for getting from Merida to Campeche (and vice versa) and out to the pristine Isla Aguada. But besides that, getting where you need to go can be a bit of a headache if you are not renting a car in Mexico. 

The ruins of Edzna and Calakmul are two of the best Mayan ruins in the country. Because they are a little trickier to get to than places like Uxmal or Chichen Itza they see a fraction of the crowds. 

It is incredible to reach Calakmul, nestled deep in the jungle, and be the only person wandering around the ruins. If you love history and archaeological sites, it is well worth the effort to get to them. 

But do mentally prepare yourself for long journeys that involve multiple changes and extended periods of waiting around at the side of the road or in small towns. Direct buses from Campeche to Edzna run a couple of times a day. 

Since they are infrequent, you may find that you wait a while for your return journey. To get to Calakmul, you have to first take the bus to the village of Xpujil.  This takes just under 4 hours.

From Xpujil to Calakmul, it’s another 2 hours. The hotels here run small trips where they take tourists to and from Calakmul each day. Keep in mind that you probably need to stay overnight in Xpujil to break up the journey.

Traveling in remote areas

It is a good idea to pick up a Mexican sim card once you arrive in the country so that you can stay connected. However, when you reach remote areas – like woodland near Edzna or the dense jungle in the southern part of the state, there is no data or phone service. 

If you were to break down here while driving, well, it would be a while before someone came the other way. That’s not super likely to happen (let’s think positively here!) 

But it pays to prepare. Always make sure that you have plenty of water and snacks for long journeys and a spare tire in the trunk of your car. 

The remote nature of some corners of Campeche state can be extremely daunting. When you get to the region near Calakmul, jaguars, and other wild cats have even been seen wandering down the road. 

Campeche city is (mostly) safe at night 

Campeche has some great restaurants, bars, and nightlife. Calle 59 is the place to go when the sun goes down.

This pedestrianized street is lined with bars, clubs, and restaurants. Tables and chairs are set out in the middle of the street and reggaeton music blares out from every angle. 

Calle 59 is usually bursting with life, especially on Friday and Saturday nights. This is also a great place to sample some Yucatecan cuisine. 

Food in this region of Mexico has some distinct differences from Mexican food in general. Many of the recipes are thousands of years old and still follow the same cooking practices that were invented by the Ancient Maya! 

If you want a more low-key spot away from the noise and the crowds, Aduana Vasconcelos (C. 59 1, Zona Centro) is a great place to go. They serve up Yucatan and Campechan delicacies and they even prepare little charcuterie boards so that you can try lots of little local dishes at once. 

The Campeche seafront Malecon is also lined with bars and clubs. You are perfectly safe walking to either place after dark. 

The Malecon is a pretty lively place and there are always local couples taking romantic walks, groups of teenagers hanging out, etc. It never gives a creepy vibe. 

Just be sure to watch your alcohol intake and not wander around drunk. Stick to the main areas and you will be fine. Don’t go wandering off down random dark, sketchy-looking side streets to shortcut back to your hotel. 

Is Campeche safe? Final thoughts

Do you have any final thoughts or concerns about staying safe in Campeche?  As I mentioned, I live in Mexico and have traveled to the area dozens of times. 

Please don’t hesitate to reach out to me if you need anything. I will do my best to get back to you ASAP. 

If this is your first time planning a trip to the area and you are searching or accommodation options, you might also enjoy this post on the best Campeche hotels.

Safe travels! Melissa xo

Melissa Douglas

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The Hottest Place In The World Today–109 Degrees F

It’s 109 degrees F in Campeche, Mexico. The city of 250,000 sits on the Yucatan Peninsula’s west coast on the Gulf of Mexico.

America’s Most Climate-Friendly City –Detroit?

Campeche, founded in 1540, is one of Mexico’s oldest cities. Its economy is dominated by fishing and tourism. 

From April to July, the mean maximum temperature is above 95 degrees F. The monthly record for each month is over 100 degrees F, topping 113 in May and 111 degrees F in April. The city’s rainy period runs from June through September. 

Unesco describes the city “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.”

As areas of the world experience temperatures above 100 degrees more frequently, it raises the question of whether their populations can remain in these areas safely or will eventually be forced to migrate elsewhere. It is hot enough in Campeche to raise this question.

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The Maya Train Will Get You to All of Yucatán’s Best Spots. But Not Yet.

In December, the train began running on its first route through Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula. On a five-day journey a few months later, the author encountered enthusiasm, and scheduling hiccups.

By Elisabeth Malkin

Elisabeth Malkin has been visiting the Yucatán Peninsula for three decades.

I stepped off the platform at the gleaming new Maxcanú train station, eager to see the magnificent Maya archaeological site of Uxmal. All I needed was a taxi to take me there, a trip of about 30 miles away.

There are no taxis, said the stationmaster, as we stood on the polished limestone floors of the high-ceilinged station, which was cool and breezy despite the brilliant late-morning sun outside. And I was the third person in two weeks to get off at Maxcanú expecting to reach Uxmal, he said.

I was midway through a five-day trip to explore the brand-new Maya Train and several of its destinations in the Yucatán Peninsula of Mexico . Designed to run 965 miles (1,554 kilometers) around a loop of 34 stations when completed, the train will whisk passengers in cool comfort through colonial cities, archaeological sites, splashy resorts and tropical forests.

Now I was stunned. Wrangling a taxi has never been a problem in Mexico. But the drivers gathered in the main square of Maxcanú offered only beat-up vans that hopscotch through small towns, where I might or might not find a taxi to Uxmal. The next van was leaving in 45 minutes.

Yucatán’s layers of history have long held me spellbound. During earlier car trips, I have clambered up deserted Maya temples and palaces, stepped into the cool naves of massive 16th-century churches and visited restored haciendas, testaments of the ostentation — and hardship — of the peninsula’s 19th-century plantation economy. Traveling by train, I thought, would allow me to steep myself in more of that history.

But as I found in Maxcanú, a train won’t necessarily get you to where you want to go.

During my February trip, I traveled on the only route then available, an east-west leg that opened in December and runs from Cancún to Mérida, and then south through the port city of Campeche to the Maya site of Palenque (a short route between Cancún and Playa del Carmen opened last month, with three trains a day). I encountered scheduling confusion, unfinished stations and a dearth of trains — just two operating daily each way between Cancún and Campeche, and only one to Palenque. Overnight sleepers and special dining trains seem years away.

President Andrés Manuel López Obrador considers the Maya Train his showcase development project, and wants to inaugurate the rest of the train before he leaves office on October 1. Based on my experience, that goal seems elusive.

A $29-billion route through the jungle

I started my journey in Cancún, where in the pre-dawn gloom the station hovered like a glowing spaceship. An attendant scanned the ticket I had bought online and a half-dozen more pointed me toward my tourist-class car, which was about a quarter full. I planned to go to Campeche, about 300 miles away, stopping once each day. At 120 kilometers (about 75 miles) an hour, the train covers the route in about six hours, the same as a car. (When construction is complete, the train’s speed should increase to 160 kilometers an hour.)

The car’s wide windows looked out at a wall of low jungle. The blue-green seats were comfortable and there was ample space between the rows. I bought a very good cappuccino at the snack bar, but declined the plastic-wrapped sandwiches. The rest of the merchandise was fruit cups, milk boxes and junk food.

The train will ultimately cost much more than the $29 billion budgeted so far, and it’s not the first time ambitious planners have alighted on the region. Cancún was once a tiny fishing village, selected half a century ago as a tourist hub. Last year 10 million international tourists flew into its airport, more than the airports of Mexico City, Los Cabos and Puerto Vallarta combined.

But uncontrolled growth has stressed the Caribbean coast’s fragile environment. The Maya Train, scientists warn , will push those problems south, threatening the area’s water supply, its unique system of underground limestone caves and its vast nature reserves.

Mr. López Obrador has charged ahead, handing the train over to the military , and arguing that it will spread Cancún’s wealth and attract new visitors. Mexico received more than 42 million overseas tourists last year and they spent almost $31 billion .

Local governments see an opportunity. “The train will allow people to disperse throughout the peninsula,” said Michelle Fridman, the tourism secretary for Yucatán state, which promotes dozens of attractions far beyond highlights like Mérida and Chichén Itzá .

Now that the train is operating, transport companies will begin to connect stations with lesser-known sites nearby, she said.

It’s fair to ask whether the train is the most effective way to develop the peninsula’s tourism. Tour companies already run trips to many sites from major cities, which are well served by buses. Driving a rental car through most of the area is considered safe , according to U.S. State Department travel guidance .

Route of Mexico’s Maya Train

Canceled trip.

It took two hours (and one time-zone change) to reach Valladolid, a colonial city of handsome streets and ancient churches, where I bought the rest of my tickets at the station. A tourist-class ticket from Cancún to Valladolid costs 472 pesos (around $28) for foreigners and 355 pesos (around $21) for Mexicans. First class, with wider seats, costs 755.50 pesos and 566.50 pesos, and discounts are available for older travelers and residents of the five states along the train’s route. (A first-class bus from downtown Cancún to Valladolid costs between 222 and 344 pesos, depending on the time of day, and takes half an hour longer.)

It was impossible to run the new Maya Train tracks into dense city centers and the Valladolid station, like the rest, was outside the urban core. A waiting bus took disembarking passengers downtown, a 15-minute ride for 35 pesos.

That day I toured Ek Balam , the site of a ninth-century Maya kingdom that is dominated by a 100-foot palace distinguished by a facade of carvings depicting winged warriors, stylized animal features and geometric patterns bordered by giant fangs. Admission to the site includes entry to the X-Canché cenote, one of thousands of limestone sinkholes that were sacred to the Maya.

Later that afternoon, I was wandering through the Museum of Ethnic Clothing, a private collection of traditional dress, embroidery and hats, when a WhatsApp message from the ticket office blinked on my phone. My train scheduled for the following day was canceled.

I decided to deal with the problem in the morning and enjoy the city. As I wandered past the antique shops and boutique hotels of the elegant Calzada de los Frailes, it was clear that Valladolid’s tourism, and the infrastructure to handle it, was well established. The Maya Train is simply an alternative way to reach a city that tourists discovered years ago.

‘We’re on the Tren Maya!’

In the morning, I found that my train had not been canceled, but the station for which I had a ticket, Tixkokob, was closed. I got off instead one stop earlier at Izamal, known for its ocher streets and the giant Franciscan convent of San Antonio de Padua, built atop the ruins of a pyramid.

During the 90-minute ride, I heard widespread enthusiasm among fellow travelers who expressed a willingness to give the train time to work out the kinks. “We’re an experiment,” said Oliva Escobedo Ochoa, 64, who was vacationing from her home in central Mexico.

Leticia Iliassich, 57, who is Mexican, was traveling with her Croatian husband along with relatives from Mexico and Croatia. They had initially been scheduled on an earlier train to Mérida that had been canceled. “We knew that it was a new project,” she said. “We don’t mind.”

The group had already sent a video to friends declaring, “We’re on the Tren Maya!”

At the Izamal station I hitched a 15-minute ride into the town center with a man who had asked me to take his photo alongside the train and his father. From there I negotiated a taxi to Hacienda San Lorenzo Aké, a working hacienda that still turns the fiber from an agave plant called henequén into coarse rope. Global demand for henequén, known as Yucatán’s “green gold,” brought fantastic wealth to the region in the mid-19th century, speckling the peninsula with more than 1,000 haciendas. ( Many are now sumptuous hotels.)

Where geometry, nature and the divine merge

It was during my third day that I found myself stuck in Maxcanú, after a 90-minute train ride from Izamal. The stationmaster, an army captain, offered me a ride to Uxmal, just as he had to the stranded tourists before me.

Eying Uxmal’s 4 p.m. final ticket sale, I accepted.

My situation made it clear just how distant the Maya Train’s promises are for tourists seeking to explore more of Yucatán. In time, that will change, said Ms. Fridman, the tourism secretary. “The idea is to have more hotels along the train line,” she said. “That will happen little by little.”

But Uxmal , among the most stunning of the Maya sites, made up for the inconvenience. Uxmal’s grand buildings are faced with intricate decorative masks as well as friezes in which geometry, nature and the divine merge. New plaques at each structure offer detailed information in English and Spanish, part of the government’s investment in improving displays at Maya sites for the train project.

Most tourists either take day trips by car or bus to Uxmal from Mérida or stay at one of three nearby hotels. As I finished dinner at my hotel, the dining room began to fill up: 47 Polish tourists had arrived.

Panama hats and a cramped van

My plan for the day was to go by taxi to Bécal, a town where Panama hats are woven in limestone caves to keep the fibers soft, and then pick up the afternoon train in nearby Calkiní for the port city of Campeche.

But I spent so much time watching the hat-making demonstration and then fitting my new hat and buying gifts that we set off with little time to reach the station. To my chagrin, I missed the train, the last one of the day.

On Calkiní’s central square, I found a van that was leaving for Campeche. Cost: 65 pesos. Time: about 1 hour and 20 minutes, similar to what I would have spent on the train. Of course, I was trapped in a cramped seat and had to listen to the driver’s choice of sentimental ballads, but I was dropped off in downtown Campeche, close to my hotel.

The next day, I toured the Museum of Maya Archaeology , an expertly curated collection that included haunting jade funeral masks, glyphs and delicate ceramic figures.

José Madrigal, 45, an engineer from Fremont, Calif., was trying to make Maya pottery interesting for his twin sons. The boys had just turned 5 and their birthday present had been a ride on the Maya Train. “They love trains,” Mr. Madrigal said. Then the family moved on, keeping up a brisk clip through the museum. They had another train to catch.

Should you take the train?

Yes, if you are traveling between larger stations. The train also offers a way to get to Palenque, which is harder to reach and has roads with security concerns. Travelers can stow bicycles on board.

To see train times, check the destinations on the website . You cannot buy tickets online more than a week in advance. But when you finally board, the ride is smooth — and the coffee is excellent.

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

Open Up Your World

Considering a trip, or just some armchair traveling here are some ideas..

52 Places:  Why do we travel? For food, culture, adventure, natural beauty? Our 2024 list has all those elements, and more .

Mumbai:  Spend 36 hours in this fast-changing Indian city  by exploring ancient caves, catching a concert in a former textile mill and feasting on mangoes.

Kyoto:  The Japanese city’s dry gardens offer spots for quiet contemplation  in an increasingly overtouristed destination.

Iceland:  The country markets itself as a destination to see the northern lights. But they can be elusive, as one writer recently found .

Texas:  Canoeing the Rio Grande near Big Bend National Park can be magical. But as the river dries, it’s getting harder to find where a boat will actually float .