Hey you! Let me tell you about the most incredible week I spent exploring the Yucatán Peninsula of Mexico – and trust me, you’re going to want to bookmark this for your next adventure!
Discover the Enchanting Yucatán Peninsula
The trip in cities:
- Cancun – Arrival city and departure point
- Tulum – Lunch stop on the way to Bacalar
- Bacalar – 2-night stay (lagoon town)
- Izamal – Day trip from Chichén Itzá (the “Yellow City”)
- Chichén Itzá – 2-night stay (archaeological site area)
- Valladolid – 1-night stay (colonial city)
- Temozón – 2-night stay at Hacienda Temozón
- Mérida – Day trip from Temozón (capital of Yucatán)
Additional locations mentioned (not cities but important stops):
- Ek Balam (archaeological site near Valladolid)
- Cenote Xcanche (near Ek Balam)
About the Yucatán
This stunning peninsula is like stepping into a time machine meets paradise! Located in southeastern Mexico, the Yucatán is home to the ancient Maya civilization’s most impressive ruins, crystal-clear cenotes (natural swimming holes in limestone caves – absolutely magical!), colorful colonial cities, and some of the most beautiful turquoise waters you’ll ever see. The region perfectly blends rich cultural heritage with Caribbean beach vibes, making it the ultimate destination for history buffs and beach lovers alike.
Why Visit at Year-End?
Girl, December and early January are honestly the BEST time to visit Mexico! Here’s why: the weather is absolutely perfect – warm days around 26-28°C (78-82°F) with lower humidity and minimal rain, plus cooler evenings that are just perfect for romantic dinners. You’ll get to experience amazing local festivities like Las Posadas (December 16-24), Christmas celebrations with their unique Mexican twist, and New Year’s Eve parties that are absolutely incredible! Plus, you might catch Día de los Santos Inocentes (December 28th – Mexico’s version of April Fools’ Day) which is so fun to witness.
I went to Mexico on this incredible group trip through a travel agency from December 26 to January 3, and it was absolutely magical. We flew Air France from Paris to Cancun (about 11 hours), and what followed was the most amazing road trip through the Yucatán Peninsula!
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Important Pre-Trip Advice & Safety Tips
Okay babe, before we dive into the itinerary, let’s talk about staying safe and smart while traveling in Mexico!
Before You Go
- Don’t pack anything too valuable or flashy – leave the designer jewelry at home, girl! The Yucatán cities are actually super chill and safe, but better safe than sorry.
- Make multiple copies of your passport – keep one in your luggage, one in your day bag, and leave one with someone at home.
- Download offline maps on Google Maps for the entire route before you leave.
- Learn some basic Spanish phrases – locals really appreciate the effort!
- Get travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and car rental excess.
- Notify your bank you’ll be traveling to avoid card blocks.
- Register with your embassy’s travel program.
While You’re There
- Driving Safety: Keep all valuables hidden when driving – nothing visible on seats or dashboard. If police stop you (it happens!), stay calm and polite. Have copies of documents ready, NOT originals.
- Water Safety: Stick to bottled water – even for brushing teeth at first until your stomach adjusts.
- Food Safety: Eat at busy restaurants with good reviews. Street food is usually safe if it’s freshly cooked and hot.
- Money Matters: Use ATMs inside banks during daytime. Carry pesos for small purchases – many places don’t take cards.
- Beach Safety: Watch for warning flags at beaches. Currents can be strong!
- Personal Safety: Don’t walk alone late at night in unfamiliar areas. Use official taxis or Uber.
- Sun Protection: Seriously girl, the sun is NO JOKE – reapply sunscreen constantly!
- Cenote Safety: Only swim in cenotes with life jackets available and during daylight hours.
What to Avoid
- Don’t drink tap water or use ice in drinks unless you know it’s purified
- Avoid showing off expensive cameras, phones, or jewelry in crowded areas
- Don’t exchange money on the street – use official exchange offices or ATMs
- Don’t leave drinks unattended at bars
- Avoid unlicensed taxis – stick to official ones or Uber
- Don’t swim in cenotes or ocean if you’re not a confident swimmer
- Avoid political discussions or demonstrations
Now let’s get into this amazing adventure!
Mexico Day 1: Arrival in Cancun
About Cancun: This famous resort city is your gateway to the Yucatán! While known for its hotel zone and party scene, it’s also perfectly positioned for exploring the peninsula’s treasures. The city offers modern amenities, beautiful beaches, and everything you need before starting your adventure.
We arrived in Cancun at the end of the day, so we had a private driver take us to our hotel – just 20 minutes from the airport. Super convenient after that long flight!
Where We Stayed: Eco Hotel el Rey del Caribe (one night)
Hotel Alternatives:
- Luxury: Live Aqua Beach Resort Cancun – Adults-only beachfront luxury with stunning infinity pools and gourmet dining. Perfect for starting your trip in style!
- Budget: Selina Cancun Downtown – Hip hostel/hotel hybrid with a social vibe, rooftop bar, and affordable private rooms. Great for meeting other travelers!
What to Do:
- Relax after your flight and acclimate to the time zone
- Take a quick stroll around the hotel zone if you have energy
- Grab dinner at the hotel or nearby
Where to Eat:
- La Parrilla – Authentic Mexican cuisine with amazing atmosphere and live mariachi music (4.4★ on Google)
- Porfirio’s Cancun – Upscale Mexican with modern twist, beautiful presentation (4.5★)
- Tacos Rigo – Local favorite for authentic street-style tacos, super affordable (4.6★)
Outfit Tip: Comfortable travel clothes – you’ll want to just chill after that long flight!
Mexico Day 2: Road Trip to Bacalar
The Journey: 350 km, approximately 4 hours and 15 minutes
This morning, a driver took us to the rental car agency. Make sure your driver has their license and an international debit card in their name – both are required!
Pro tip: Take photos of the rental car from all angles before leaving the lot – document every existing scratch! This will save you potential hassles when returning it.
Tulum Stop
About Tulum: This coastal bohemian paradise perfectly blends ancient Maya ruins, pristine beaches, and trendy beach clubs. The ruins sit dramatically on cliffs overlooking the turquoise Caribbean – it’s absolutely Instagram-worthy!
We stopped for lunch at La Coqueta Tulum and made a quick beach stop to see the famous Tulum ruins from afar before continuing our journey.
Things to Do in Tulum (if you have more time):
- Visit the Tulum Archaeological Site – ruins right on the beach!
- Explore the trendy beach clubs along the hotel zone
- Swim in nearby cenotes like Gran Cenote or Cenote Calavera
- Browse the cute boutiques and yoga studios in town
- Visit the Tulum Art Club for local artisan finds
Bacalar
About Bacalar: Welcome to the “Lagoon of Seven Colors” – and girl, it LIVES UP TO THE NAME! This magical town is built around a stunning lagoon with the most incredible shades of blue you’ve ever seen. It’s way more laid-back than touristy Cancun or Tulum, and that’s exactly what makes it special.
Where We Stayed: Villas Bakalar – Not a traditional hotel but more like well-appointed Airbnb apartments with two rooms each, full kitchens, balconies with lagoon views, and plenty of space. No reception or restaurant, so it’s very independent.
Hotel Alternatives:
- Luxury: Rancho Encantado – Boutique eco-resort right on the lagoon with stunning casitas, kayaks, and amazing service (4.8★)
- Budget: Hotel Laguna Bacalar – Simple, clean rooms with lagoon access and friendly staff without breaking the bank (4.3★)
Where to Eat:
- Mango y Chile – Fresh, creative Mexican cuisine with vegetarian options and lagoon views (4.6★)
- La Playita – Right on the lagoon, perfect for watching sunset with fresh ceviche (4.5★)
- Nixtamal – Traditional Yucatecan food, family-run with amazing homemade tortillas (4.7★)
Outfit of the Day:
- For the road: Comfy message tee and striped cotton trousers with platform sandals
- For the night: Large flowy floral pattern trousers with crop top tied at the front
Mexico Day 3: Cenotes & Bike Tour in Bacalar
Activities:
Morning: Cenote Boat Tour – We booked a boat tour to visit the cenotes around Bacalar’s lagoon. The water is unbelievably clear and those different shades of blue are absolutely mesmerizing! You’ll visit spots like Cenote Negro (the deepest part) and the Pirates’ Channel.
Afternoon: Bike Tour – After lunch at a local restaurant (the food was incredible despite the simple setting!), we rented bikes from a shop in the city center and explored more of the area. It’s such a fun way to see the town!
Things to Do in Bacalar:
- Visit Fuerte San Felipe – a historic fort with lagoon views
- Swim in the Cenote Azul – a massive open cenote perfect for swimming
- Paddle board or kayak on the lagoon
- Visit Los Rapidos – natural lazy river experience
- Watch the sunset from the lagoon (absolutely magical!)
- Explore the town’s colorful murals and artisan shops
Evening: Dinner at Finistere – an Italian restaurant (yes, Italian in Mexico, but it was delicious!)
Outfit of the Day:
- For activities: Swimsuit with a sarong worn as a skirt, then switch to shorts for biking with flat sandals
- For the night: Flowy dress with a scarf to cover – it can get a bit chilly in the evening!
Mexico Day 4: Drive from Bacalar to Chichén Itzá
The Journey: 290 km, approximately 3 hours and 40 minutes
Important Note: We got stopped by police at what seemed like a state border. They asked for our passports – we gave them the originals (even though the agency recommended giving copies!), but everything was fine. They just asked basic questions like where we’re from and where we’re heading. Stay calm and polite if this happens to you!
About Chichén Itzá: You’re now near one of the New Seven Wonders of the World! This ancient Maya city is the crown jewel of Yucatán archaeological sites. The main pyramid, El Castillo (also called the Kukulkán Pyramid), is absolutely breathtaking and represents the Maya’s incredible astronomical knowledge.
Where We Stayed: Villas Arqueologicas – Just 5 minutes by car from Chichén Itzá’s main entrance. Super convenient for early morning visits before the crowds arrive!
Hotel Alternatives:
- Luxury: Hacienda Chichen Resort & Yaxkin Spa – Beautiful colonial hacienda with lush gardens, right next to the ruins entrance (4.5★)
- Budget: Hotel Dolores Alba Chichen – Simple but comfortable with a pool, great value and friendly staff (4.2★)
Where to Eat:
- Las Mestizas – Traditional Yucatecan food in a beautiful colonial setting (4.4★)
- Restaurante Pueblo Maya – Buffet-style with local specialties, good for groups (4.3★)
- Kinich – In nearby Izamal, known for authentic Maya cuisine and cochinita pibil (4.5★)
We arrived and just relaxed at the hotel for the evening after that long drive.
Outfit of the Day:
- For the drive: Comfortable shirt, tank top and wide-leg cotton trousers
- For the night: Same outfit or switch the top to a chic blouse
Mexico Day 5: Day Trip to Izamal, the Yellow City
About Izamal: this “Yellow City” is like walking into the sunniest Instagram feed ever! Almost every building is painted in this gorgeous golden-yellow color, and it’s absolutely charming. It’s one of Mexico’s “Pueblos Mágicos” (Magic Towns) and totally deserves that title!
What We Did:
- Visited the massive Convento de San Antonio de Padua – one of the largest monastery atriums in the world!
- Explored local boutiques and art galleries showcasing regional artists
- Climbed the Kinich Kakmó pyramid – yes, there’s a pyramid right in town!
- Wandered the colorful streets and took a million photos
Things to Do in Izamal:
- Take a horse-drawn carriage tour around town (so romantic!)
- Visit the Centro Cultural y Artesanal – amazing local crafts
- Explore the local market for authentic souvenirs
- Try traditional Maya cuisine at local restaurants
- Visit during sunset when the yellow walls glow golden
Pro Tip: We wanted to eat at a highly-rated restaurant but it was fully booked – make reservations in advance if you have a specific place in mind!
Back to the hotel by late afternoon to rest, then dinner at the hotel.
Outfit of the Day:
- For daytime: Flowy floral dress with flat sandals and shoulder bag – wear comfy shoes because there’s LOTS of walking!
- For the night: Same outfit or change to another flowy dress
Mexico Day 6: Guided Tour of Chichén Itzá & Valladolid
Morning: Chichén Itzá Tour
We had a private guided tour of Chichén Itzá that lasted about 2 hours – absolutely worth it! Our guide explained the incredible history of the Kukulkán pyramid and the Maya civilization. The astronomical precision of this place is mind-blowing!
Did You Know? During the spring and autumn equinoxes, the sun creates a shadow that looks like a serpent descending the pyramid’s staircase – it’s called the “descent of Kukulkán”!
Things to See at Chichén Itzá:
- El Castillo (Kukulkán Pyramid) – the iconic centerpiece
- Temple of the Warriors with its thousand columns
- The Great Ball Court – largest in Mesoamerica
- El Caracol (The Observatory) – used for astronomical observations
- Sacred Cenote – where Maya made offerings to the gods
- Platform of the Skulls (Tzompantli)
Evening Show: There’s a night show called “La Noche de Kukulkán” (30 minutes) that’s an amazing way to learn about Maya history through lights and projections, but we had to skip it since we needed to get to Valladolid.
Valladolid:
About Valladolid: This gorgeous colonial city is like the perfect middle ground between touristy and authentic. The colorful buildings, charming squares, and local vibe make it one of my favorite stops on the whole trip!
The Journey: 50 km, about 45 minutes from Chichén Itzá
Where We Stayed: Casa Tia Micha – Only 7 rooms, super discrete entrance (we almost missed it!), but absolutely charming with delicious food. Just 5 minutes from San Gervasio church.
Hotel Alternatives:
- Luxury: Hotel Boutique Casa Quetzal – Beautifully restored colonial mansion with rooftop pool and gourmet restaurant (4.8★)
- Budget: Hostel La Candelaria – Clean, friendly hostel with private rooms available and great rooftop (4.6★)
Things to Do in Valladolid:
- Visit the main square (Parque Francisco Cantón Rosado) – super lively!
- Explore San Gervasio Church – beautiful colonial architecture
- Swim in Cenote Zaci right in the city center
- Visit Casa de los Venados – private home with incredible Mexican folk art collection (free, donations accepted)
- Shop at the local market for authentic crafts
- Walk down Calzada de los Frailes – the most picturesque street
We spent the afternoon exploring the colorful streets and colonial architecture, then found a great restaurant for dinner.
Where to Eat:
- Casa Italia – Italian-Mexican fusion in a gorgeous courtyard setting (4.6★)
- Yerba Buena del Sisal – Farm-to-table Mexican with beautiful presentation (4.5★)
- Squimez – Local favorite for traditional Yucatecan food, super authentic (4.4★)
Outfit of the Day:
- Chichén Itzá: Large tee with leggings, sneakers, hat and sunglasses with a backpack
- Valladolid: Shorts set (shirt and shorts) with a cropped tank top and platform sandals, shoulder/crossbody bag
- For the night: Ruched pencil skirt and crop top with heeled sandals and a straw clutch
Mexico Day 7: Ek Balam & Cenote Xcanché, then Temozón Hacienda Stay
Morning: Ek Balam Archaeological Site
We had another private tour (1.5 hours) at this incredible archaeological site. While smaller than Chichén Itzá, Ek Balam is special because you can still climb the main pyramid – and girl, the view from the top is WORTH IT!
About Ek Balam: The name means “Black Jaguar” in Maya, and this site is known for its incredibly well-preserved stucco sculptures. The Acropolis here is one of the tallest Maya structures in the Yucatán!
What to See:
- The Acropolis – climb to the top for panoramic views!
- Intricate stucco carvings (some of the best-preserved in the Maya world)
- The Ball Court
- Learn about the site’s role in Maya political networks
Cenote Xcanche Adventure
After the tour, we had bikes included to ride to Cenote Xcanche – about 20 minutes through the jungle. OMG, this cenote is MAGICAL! When the sun comes through the opening, the water just glows this incredible turquoise. We brought our swimsuits and took a dive – the water was cold at first but so refreshing after the bike ride and the heat!
Pro Tip: They have ice cream at the shop next to the cenote – perfect post-swim treat!
Afternoon: Hacienda Temozón
The Journey: About 60 km, approximately 1 hour
Time to experience authentic hacienda living! We spent the rest of the afternoon just enjoying this beautiful property.
An Hacienda is a traditional Mexican estate, originally large plantations from colonial times. Many have been beautifully restored into luxury hotels that give you this amazing glimpse into Mexico’s aristocratic past. Think sprawling grounds, colonial architecture, gorgeous courtyards, and that old-world charm mixed with modern comfort – it’s like living in a historical romance novel for a night!
Where We Stayed: Hacienda Temozón – The architecture is absolutely stunning with gorgeous grounds and a beautiful pool. The breakfast was good, though dinner was just okay. The reception wasn’t the most welcoming, but the restaurant staff was lovely.
About Hacienda Temozón: This restored 17th-century hacienda gives you that authentic historical experience. The property is expansive with beautiful colonial architecture, lush gardens, and that old-world charm we talked about earlier!
Note: This area is quite remote, so hotel alternatives and restaurant recommendations aren’t applicable here – the hacienda is your full experience!
What to Do at the Hacienda:
- Relax by the stunning pool
- Explore the extensive grounds and gardens
- Take photos of the beautiful architecture
- Enjoy the peaceful, serene atmosphere
- Maybe book a spa treatment if available
Outfit of the Day:
- For Ek Balam: Leggings, crop tee, sneakers and backpack with sun protection + swimsuit underneath
- For the night: Maxi cotton dress
Mexico Day 8: Mérida, Capital of Yucatán
About Mérida: Welcome to the cultural capital of the Yucatán! This vibrant city is often called the “White City” and it’s the perfect blend of colonial charm, Maya heritage, and modern Mexican culture. The architecture is stunning, the food scene is incredible, and the local vibe is so warm and welcoming!
The Journey: 60 km, just under 2 hours
Things to Do in Mérida:
- Explore the Plaza Grande (main square) – beautiful colonial buildings all around
- Visit the Mérida Cathedral – stunning 16th-century architecture
- Walk down Paseo de Montejo – the city’s grand boulevard with mansions
- Visit Casa Montejo – a 16th-century mansion-museum
- Explore the local markets – Mercado Lucas de Gálvez is amazing!
- Visit Museo Casa Montejo for history
- If you’re there on a weekend, there are free cultural events and street performances
- Try traditional Yucatecan dishes like cochinita pibil and papadzules
- Visit the Gran Museo del Mundo Maya if you love museums
- Shop for authentic guayaberas (traditional shirts) and hammocks
We spent a few hours exploring the city, then headed back to the hacienda to relax before dinner.
Hotel Alternatives in Mérida:
- Luxury: Rosas & Xocolate Boutique Hotel & Spa – Ultra-chic boutique hotel in a restored mansion with chocolate-themed spa (4.7★)
- Budget: Nomadas Hostel Mérida – Hip hostel with pool, great common areas, and private rooms available (4.5★)
Where to Eat in Mérida:
- Apoala Mexican Cuisine – Modern Oaxacan food, absolutely delicious and beautiful presentation (4.6★)
- La Chaya Maya – Traditional Yucatecan food, local favorite with generous portions (4.4★)
- Mercado 60 – Food hall with multiple vendors, great for trying different things (4.3★)
Outfit of the Day:
- For daytime: Maxi crochet dress, sandals and shoulder bag
- For the night: Shirt and trousers set with chic flat sandals
Day 9: Return to Cancun & Departure
The Journey: 320 km, approximately 3 hours and 15 minutes to Cancun
Last day in Mexico ! We drove back to Cancun, returned the rental car (remember those photos you took at the beginning? Now’s when they come in handy for the final inspection!), and took the shuttle from the rental agency to the airport for our flight back to Paris.
Pro Tip: Give yourself plenty of time at the airport – Cancun can get busy, especially during holiday season!
Outfit of the Day: Comfortable airport outfit – think cozy but put-together for that long flight home!
Essential Packing Checklist
Documents (Keep Multiple Copies!):
- Passport (valid for at least 6 months) + 3-4 photocopies
- ESTA authorization (if transiting through the United States)
- International driving license
- Credit/debit cards in the principal driver’s name
- Travel insurance documents
- Hotel confirmations
- Flight tickets (printed and digital)
- Car rental confirmation
- Emergency contact information
Sun Protection (Seriously, Don’t Skip This!):
- High SPF sunscreen (reef-safe for cenotes!)
- After-sun lotion or aloe vera gel
- Sunglasses (polarized are best)
- Wide-brimmed hat or baseball cap
- Light scarf or sarong for coverage
Insect Protection:
- Strong mosquito repellent (with DEET)
- After-bite cream
- Light long sleeves for evenings
Electronics:
- Phone and charger
- Camera and charger
- Portable power bank
- Adapter for American plugs (Type A/B)
- Waterproof phone case for cenotes
- Headphones
Clothing Essentials:
- Light, breathable fabrics (cotton, linen)
- Swimsuits (at least 2)
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Sandals
- Sneakers for ruins
- One nicer outfit for dinners
- Light cardigan or jacket for AC/evenings
- Workout/athletic wear
- Underwear and socks
- Sarong or cover-up
Toiletries & Health:
- Prescription medications
- Basic first aid kit
- Anti-diarrhea medication (just in case!)
- Pain relievers
- Motion sickness tablets
- Hand sanitizer
- Wet wipes
- Tampons/pads (hard to find specific brands)
- Contraception if needed
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Deodorant
- Shampoo and conditioner (small bottles)
- Razor
- Makeup and makeup remover
- Contact lens solution if needed
Other Essentials:
- Reusable water bottle (with filter is ideal)
- Dry bag for water activities
- Backpack for day trips
- Ziplock bags (for wet swimsuits, etc.)
- Small flashlight or headlamp
- Travel towel (quick-dry microfiber)
- Snacks for road trips
- Spanish phrasebook or app
- Notebook and pen
- Cash in USD (for tips and small purchases)
- Small lock for luggage
Final Thoughts
This week in Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula was honestly one of the most magical trips I’ve ever taken! From the incredible Maya ruins to swimming in crystal-clear cenotes, exploring colorful colonial cities, and experiencing authentic Mexican culture – every single day brought new adventures and memories.
The beauty of this road trip is the freedom it gives you – you can stop whenever something catches your eye, adjust your schedule, and really immerse yourself in each place. The Yucatán is incredibly diverse, offering everything from adventure to relaxation, history to natural beauty.
My biggest takeaway? The people were SO warm and welcoming, the food was incredible (seriously, I’m still dreaming about those tacos!), and the sense of history everywhere you go is just incredible. Plus, traveling during the holiday season meant perfect weather and such a festive atmosphere!
So grab your girlfriends, pack your bags, and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime. Mexico is calling, babe – and trust me, you’re going to fall absolutely in love with it just like I did!
Safe travels and enjoy every magical moment! 🌴✨
¡Buen viaje!
