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There are great many things to do in Mexico, and so are in Izamal.
Izamal is a city brimming with vibrant colors and rich history, where ancient Mayan architecture meets colonial beauty.
It’s a place where time seems to stand still, where the cobblestone streets draped in bougainvillea lead to hidden courtyards and enchanting plazas.
From exploring towering pyramids to savoring delicious Yucatecan cuisine, Izamal beckons visitors to immerse themselves in its mesmerizing blend of past and present.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Izamal:
1. Kinich Kak Moo Ruins
Ancient Mayan ruins located in Izamal, Mexico.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the ruins of Kinich Kak Moo, which include impressive pyramids and structures that were once used for rituals and ceremonies.
The site offers stunning views of the surrounding jungle and landscape.
Don’t miss: The impressive pyramid at the center of the ruins, which offers a challenging but rewarding climb to the top. This is a great spot to take in the scenery and snap some photos.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and insect repellent as the site is located in a hot and humid environment.
Also, consider hiring a local guide to learn more about the history and significance of these ancient ruins.
2. Itzamatul Church
Itzamatul Church is a prominent religious landmark located in the charming town of Izamal, Yucatan, Mexico.
What to see or do: Explore the history and architecture of the church, including its impressive bell tower which can be climbed for stunning views of the town and surrounding landscape.
Attend a service or ceremony to experience the spiritual energy of the church.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the nearby Convent of San Antonio de Padua, another important religious site in Izamal. The town is also known for its vibrant yellow buildings and colonial charm.
Insider travel tips: Visit during the evening to experience a spectacular light and sound show projected onto the exterior of the church. Be respectful when visiting the church and its grounds, as it is an important indigenous spiritual site.
3. Convent of San Antonio de Padua
A beautiful and historic convent located in the heart of Izamal, Mexico.
What to see or do: Visit the stunning yellow facade of the convent, which dates back to the 16th century. Explore the quiet interior of the chapel, filled with intricate frescoes and beautiful artwork.
Walk through the convent’s beautiful gardens and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Don’t miss: The nightly light show, which illuminates the convent’s exterior and tells the history of the site through music and video. This is a must-see attraction that you won’t want to miss.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, as the grounds of the convent can be quite large and there is plenty of walking to do.
Also, make sure to arrive early in the evening to secure a good spot for the light show, as it can get quite crowded.
And don’t forget to bring your camera – the convent is a popular spot for photos!
4. Pyramid of the Magician
Archaeological site consisting of a pre-Columbian Mesoamerican pyramid located in Izamal, Yucatan, Mexico.
What to see or do: Visitors can climb to the top of the pyramid and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The site also features other ancient ruins to explore and learn about the history of the Mayan culture.
Don’t miss: The light and sound show that takes place in the evenings, which brings the history of the site to life through an immersive multimedia experience.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to bring comfortable shoes as the climb up the pyramid can be steep.
It’s also recommended to visit the site early in the day or in the late afternoon to avoid the heat and crowds.
Additionally, consider booking a guided tour to learn more about the culture and history of the area.
5. San Idelfonso Cathedral
San Idelfonso Cathedral is a historic Spanish colonial-era Catholic cathedral located in the charming town of Izamal, Yucatan, Mexico.
What to see or do: Visit the stunning yellow façade of the cathedral, which is lit up during the evening, creating a magical atmosphere in the town.
Explore the beautiful interior that showcases intricate Spanish Baroque style architecture and magnificent artwork. Climb up to the bell tower and enjoy the panoramic views of the town and surrounding countryside.
Attend mass or join a guided tour to learn about the history and significance of this grand cathedral.
Don’t miss: The impressive altarpiece which is the grand centerpiece and stands tall behind the altar. It is adorned with gold leaf and intricate carvings which depict scenes from the Bible and the life of saints.
Insider travel tips: Visit the cathedral during the evening when it is beautifully illuminated, to truly appreciate its beauty. Take a stroll in the charming town where you can find numerous restaurants, shops, and other historical landmarks.
Try the famous Yucatecan cuisine, which includes delicious dishes like cochinita pibil and panuchos. Don’t forget to carry a hat, sunscreen, and comfortable footwear as the town can get pretty hot and humid.
6. The Yellow City
A colonial city in Mexico known for its yellow-painted buildings.
What to see or do: Visit the Kinich Kakmó pyramid, one of the largest in Mexico.
Don’t miss: Trying the local cuisine, including cochinita pibil (slow-cooked pork) and papadzules (tortillas filled with hard-boiled eggs and pumpkin seed sauce).
Insider travel tips: Visit during the week if possible to avoid crowds.
7. Flamboyanes
A street lined with beautiful Flamboyant trees, located in the charming town of Izamal in the Yucatan peninsula of Mexico.
What to see or do: Take a leisurely stroll down the street and admire the stunning pink and orange Flamboyant trees that provide a picturesque canopy overhead.
The street is also home to a number of small shops and restaurants that are worth checking out.
Don’t miss: Taking a break at one of the cafes or restaurants to enjoy a cold drink or a delicious meal while basking in the shade of the Flamboyant trees.
Insider travel tips: Visit in the morning or early evening to avoid the midday heat, and bring a camera to capture the vibrant colors of the Flamboyant trees.
8. Santa Cruz Church
Santa Cruz Church, also known as the Chapel of Santa Cruz, is a small colonial-era church located in Izamal, a magical yellow town in the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico.
What to see or do: The church features a beautiful, ornate façade adorned with intricate stonework and carvings.
Inside, there are several stunning murals and paintings, including a depiction of the crucifixion of Jesus that is believed to be the oldest in Mexico.
Don’t miss: Be sure to admire the stunning view of the church from the nearby Kinich Kak Moo Pyramid. The combination of the yellow façade and green trees against a bright blue sky is truly breathtaking.
Insider travel tips: If you want to learn more about the history of the church and the town, consider hiring a local guide. They can provide interesting insights and take you to lesser-known spots that you wouldn’t find on your own.
Additionally, the best time to visit is during the annual Festival of the Cross, held around May 3rd, when the town is decorated with crosses made of flowers and other materials.
Finally, bring a hat and sunscreen, as it can get quite hot during the day.
9. Chacmultun Ruins
The Chacmultun Ruins are ancient Mayan remains located in Izamal, Yucatan, Mexico.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the overgrown ruins of Chacmultun, which include several impressive structures such as pyramids, temples, tombs, and palaces.
The ancient architecture is covered in vegetation and the site boasts a peaceful, remote atmosphere, making it a great spot for an otherworldly adventure.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the site’s main pyramid, which towers above the other ruins. The view from the top is spectacular and it’s a great place to snap some memorable photos.
Insider travel tips: – Visit early in the morning to avoid the heat of the day and the crowds.
10. Folk Art Museum
A museum that showcases the folk art and crafts of the Yucatán Peninsula, located in the charming town of Izamal.
What to see or do: Explore the colorful exhibits featuring textiles, ceramics, and wood carvings created by local artisans. Be sure to also check out the museum’s beautiful courtyard.
Don’t miss: The opportunity to purchase unique, handmade crafts and souvenirs in the museum’s gift shop.
Insider travel tips: – Visit on a Sunday evening to see the town’s impressive Franciscan convent illuminated with colorful lights.
11. Tixcocob
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12. Cenote Yokdzonot
Cenote Yokdzonot is a natural sinkhole filled with crystal-clear water, located near the charming town of Izamal in the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico.
What to see or do: Swim or snorkel in the refreshing waters of the cenote to cool off from the heat. You can also explore the natural surroundings, including the lush jungle vegetation and the fascinating rock formations.
Don’t miss: Take some time to relax on one of the many wooden platforms surrounding the cenote and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. If you’re lucky, you might even spot some local wildlife!
Insider travel tips: – Bring biodegradable sunscreen to protect yourself and the delicate ecosystem of the cenote.
13. Kankirixche Cenote
Kankirixche Cenote is a natural swimming pool located in the town of Izamal, Mexico.
What to see or do: Visitors can swim in the crystal-clear waters of the cenote and explore the underwater caves.
Don’t miss: The stunning rock formations and stalactites that hang from the cave’s ceiling, which are illuminated by natural light filtering through the cenote’s opening.
Insider travel tips: Bring your own snorkeling gear to explore the underwater caves. Plan to arrive early in the morning to avoid crowds and fully experience the cenote’s peaceful atmosphere.
14. X-Canche Cenote
Natural sinkhole or cenote located near the city of Izamal in Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula.
What to see or do: Swim in the crystal clear turquoise waters of X-Canche Cenote and explore the limestone formations. Snorkeling and diving are also popular activities here.
Don’t miss: Admiring the unique sight of the sunbeams filtering through the natural openings in the cenote’s roof and illuminating the water below, creating an ethereal experience.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early in the morning to avoid the crowds and bring your own snorkeling gear if possible. It’s also recommended to wear biodegradable sunscreen and insect repellent to respect the fragile ecosystem of the cenote.
15. Hacienda San Jose Carpizo
Historic Hacienda turned boutique hotel located in Izamal, Yucatan.
What to see or do: Relax and enjoy the peacefulness of the hacienda, take a refreshing dip in the pool, take a stroll through the lush gardens, visit the nearby Mayan pyramids and ruins, explore the charming colonial town of Izamal.
Don’t miss: The opportunity to try traditional Yucatecan cuisine at the on-site restaurant, La Hacienda. Also, the chance to witness the beautiful sunset from the hacienda’s rooftop terrace.
Insider travel tips: Book a room with a private terrace and hammock for ultimate relaxation. Also, take advantage of the hacienda’s free bike rentals to explore the surrounding area.