The Most Amazing Things to do in Campeche
This small city is only two hours away from Merida and is a true off-the-beaten-path city found in the famous Yucatan Peninsula. Because the city is small, it fairly easy to discover its beauty in only a few days.
Things to do in Campeche
Table of Contents
Stroll the Colorful Streets
Like mentioned before, Campeche is one of the most colorful city centers I’ve ever seen. It was a complete joy to walk down its streets taking in all the beauty of the pastel-colored buildings that lined the city center.
I simply could not stop taking pictures! The city requires that the buildings in the center keep their colonial look and therefore it has this charm of the past that simply takes your breath away.
Hang out and Eat at Calle 59
This was one of my favorite spots in Campeche and all where all the great vibes are at! Calle 59 is a rainbow street lined with many restaurants. The street is set up with lovely outdoor seating.
It’s the perfect hang-out spot for grabbing food and drinks with a friend during the day or night, or you can go alone and still enjoy it.
The restaurants on this street are a little pricier than the small family-owned restaurants throughout the center, but they are still reasonably priced.
Prices range around 95-200 pesos depending on what you order. Do not miss this street!
Puerta de la Tierra Y Espectaculo de Luces
Campeche is the only city in Mexico with a wall that was built to protect it from pirates back in the day. However, the wall was never completed in time but it now stands as an entryway to the center.
At Puerta de La Tierra entrance, you can go into an informational room about the wall and for 15 pesos, you can walk the wall above. I definitely recommend going up because it has some nice views of the center and colorful houses down below.
At night, for only 60 pesos you can go back to see the light show displayed on the wall.
Plaza de Armas o Plaza de La Independencia
Plaza de las Armas, which is also known as Plaza de la Independencia or Parque Principal to the locals, is the heart of the city center. It is a beautiful square where many activities take place, such as festivals, art events, and political demonstrations.
This plaza is surrounded by important buildings to the city such as Palacio del Gobierno (Government Palace), Centro Cultural Casa #6, La Catedral, and La Casa Vieja.
Fuerte de San Miguel
This fort, also known as Museo Arqueológico de Campeche Fuerte de San Miguel was once utilized for the fights in which Campeche was involved during the 19th century.
The museum exhibits pieces from various Mayan cities including masks that belonged to Calakmul. Some of the other pieces found are jade necklaces, vessels, and other items they used.
The fort itself is significant as once a military site and part of the history of the city. The entrance is 55 pesos and a taxi to the site should cost about 35 pesos.
It is located on a hill and has a great view of the sea.
Museo de Barcos y Armas Fuerte de San Jose el Alto
Similar to Fuerte de San Miguel, it is located on the most elevated northern part of the city and has spectacular views of the sea and the city. The site gives insight as to how the city fortified itself against pirates.
The museum inside has a collection of pieces related to militia, commercial trade, and boat usage during the mid 20th century. The entrance is 45 pesos and a taxi will take you there for 35 pesos.
Estatua de Benito Juarez
Just a 15-minute walk from Fuerte de San Jose, there is a big statue of Benito Juarez, the 26th Mexican President. He is known for being the first president of indigenous origin.
Benito Juarez was born poor in Oaxaca, orphaned young, and went to school when he was 12. He is one of the most well-remembered presidents in Mexico.
When you visit the statue, there is an awesome view of the city and the sea down below.
Fuentes Danzarinas
I’m a lover of dancing fountains and Campeche puts on a free show at night. It is absolutely stunning and the fountains dance to the rhythm of the music. In my case, they danced to Christmas music which made it all the more magical.
Malecon Letters
Campeche has an incredible Malecon that runs along the beach. It has a specific space for hanging out, a space for jogging, and a space for bike riding.
Along the Malecon, there are outdoor work-out machines, sculptures and statues, and colorful letters with the city name that Mexico is known for.
You’ll notice locals and visitors alike, use the Malecon for exercise or a simple stroll throughout the day.
Sunset at the Malecon
I put this as a separate activity because it is a must-do in the evening when the sun is setting. Campeche is known to have some of the best sunsets and I was able to witness it as true. I saw one of my favorite sunsets here and the atmosphere is absolutely relaxing and the view breathtaking.
Tranvia Turistica-El Guapo
The best way to learn about the history of Campeche is to take a one-hour tour of the Touristic Tram, or Tranvia Turistica named El Guapo. For just 100 pesos, they take you around the city to the most important points and neighborhoods.
It’s very relaxing actually and I enjoyed my time riding while listening to the history of the city. You can catch the tram in the city center at Plaza de las Armas.
Centro Cultural El Palacio
This cultural center is found in the city center and it educates on the interesting history that makes up Campeche.
The rooms that make up the museum are interactive, hold paintings, and mainly it teaches the history of pirates and the constant attacks on the city and the reason for which the city has a wall surrounding it.
The museum also shows information about the products that were exported and the navigation boats and routes that were used.
At night, the cultural center puts up a spectacular light show to demonstrate the history of the city. I was bummed to miss the light show because I was told it was amazing. The museum and the light show are both free.
Centro de Cultura Casa #6
This house turned museum was restored in 1998 to use as a cultural reference of what it was like to live in the 18th century. It holds beautiful replicas of furniture pieces and accessories.
The museum is small but beautiful. It is located in the city center and the entrance is only 20 pesos.
Pregonero Statues
Pregoneros are characters of the city who during parliament, in a high voice, and public places offered their services and products to the inhabitants of the city.
They walked the neighborhoods and offered products such as bread, fish, candy, fruit, and more. Little by little these characters became an important part of the city and even have a song related to them.
Years later, the artist Miguel Ángel Horn made a petition to put these statues in honor of the history of the city. Now you can find them throughout the center.
Day Trip to Edzna Ruins
The Yucatan Peninsula has many Mayan Ruins to explore and near Campeche, you can find Edza. It is a fascinating archeological site to check out.
This site gets very few tourists, therefore you are likely to enjoy the place without any crowds at all or maybe have it to yourself as I did. During pandemic days, I saw maybe 7 other people on site that day.
Normally, most structures can be climbed except for the main pyramid. However, during my visit, climbing was closed off to help with social distancing. The odd part about that is I practically had the place to myself.
It is believed it was inhabited as early as 600 BC and the city that was built had elaborate underground systems to capture and retain water. You can see the Little Acropolis, Temple of the Masks, the Ball Court, and more.
Edzna is definitely this well-kept secret archeological site that will most likely be well-known one day.
Where to Eat
- Amvigv– Tacos al Pastor, 95 pesos
- Patronis: Wings y Papas Francesas, 120 pesos
- Fresh Greens: Omelet fruit, coffee, bread, 100 pesos
- Luz de Luna: Scrambled eggs, coffee, fruit, tortillas, beans, chilaquiles 95 pesos
Where to Stay in Campeche
Definitely stay in the city center within the walls built around it. This way you get the pleasure of walking around everywhere. Another option is to stay on the Malecon to enjoy beach views from afar.
Campeche is budget-friendly, so you are most likely to find something cheap. There are also many hostels for those who want to save more. I stayed at Maya Campeche Hotel and it is within walking distance to my favorite places.
Two blocks from the plaza center, a 10-minute walk to the Malecon, and a 3-minute walk to Calle 59. What I liked best was the rooftop with views of the city.
How to Get Around Campeche
Campeche is a small city, therefore Uber does not exist here. The best way to get around is to walk. The city center is small enough to do this. But if you go to the forts, then a taxi is your best bet.
You will pay under 50 pesos to get around to most places and no more than 200 pesos to get to the airport. Before riding, ask the price so you don’t get scammed.
However, the taxi drivers here have been the most honest at the pricing in comparison to most places I’ve been.
What to Pack
Here are some travel items to pack for your trip to Mexico.
Travel Booking Resources
Book Your Flight:
To find cheap flights, check Skyscanner and Google Flights. These search engines check airlines to find you the best deals. The more flexibility you have, the better flight deals available.
Book Your Accommodation:
Booking.com is my favorite booking site for hotels but it also shows great deals on hostels and apartments. Plus, when you reach Genius Level, you get special discounts, included breakfasts, and upgrades on some hotel rooms. Hostelworld is specifically for budget travelers who enjoy hostels. This is the best place for finding great options.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance and Visa Applications:
Travel insurance will protect you against theft, injury, illness, and cancellations. Sometimes unexpected things happen during a trip and protections will keep you covered. Two great options are: Safety Wing and World Nomads. Also, iVisa can help you get a visa if you need one.
Book Tours:
Sometimes the best way to see a place is through tours. I recommend checking out Get Your Guide for some fun and unique adventures wherever you go.
Check out my other travel resources to help you book your trip!
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The Best Things to do in Campeche
