Things To Do
in Campeche
Campeche, Mexico is a beautiful colonial city located on the Yucatán Peninsula. It is known for its well-preserved historic city center, surrounded by ancient fortifications and walls built to protect the city from pirate attacks. The city is filled with colorful buildings, cobblestone streets, and charming plazas.
Campeche also boasts a rich cultural heritage, with museums showcasing Mayan artifacts and a vibrant local arts scene.
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Hasta luego" - See you later
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $25
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $25 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the impressive San Francisco de Campeche Cathedral. Wander the colorful streets, taking in the colonial architecture and vibrant murals.
Enjoy a traditional meal at a local restaurant, trying dishes like pan de cazón. After lunch, explore the forts of San Miguel and San Jose del Alto for stunning views.
Stroll along the malecón, soaking in the evening sea breeze. Relax at one of the waterfront cafes with a refreshing drink.
Head out early to the nearby Puuc ecotourism site, where you can hike and spot native wildlife. Bring your camera for breathtaking views of the natural landscape.
After exploring, enjoy a picnic lunch amidst nature. Visit the nearby cenotes for a refreshing swim in crystal-clear waters.
Return to Campeche and enjoy dinner at a seaside restaurant. Don’t forget to try local seafood specialties.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage, including Mayan ruins and colonial architecture.
- Beautiful beaches along the Gulf of Mexico.
- Delicious local cuisine, with fresh seafood and traditional dishes.
- Laid-back atmosphere and friendly locals.
- Affordable cost of living compared to many Western countries.
- Potential for eco-tourism, with nearby natural parks and reserves.
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors.
- Hot and humid climate may be uncomfortable for some.
- Infrastructure may not be as developed as in larger cities.
- Issues with crime and safety in some areas.
- Seasonal tourism can lead to crowded areas during peak times.
- Language barrier for those who do not speak Spanish.
Best Activities in Campeche
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Embark on a journey to the impressive UNESCO World Heritage site of Calakmul, home to ancient Mayan ruins and diverse wildlife within the Calakmul Biosphere Reserve.
Discover the vibrant history and architecture of Campeche's walled city, a designated UNESCO World Heritage site boasting colorful buildings and rich cultural heritage.
Indulge in water sports and relaxation on the beautiful beaches of Isla Aguada, offering opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, fishing, and more.
Tours
Uncover the best of Campeche with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Campeche
Visit one of these nice places.
A scenic waterfront promenade offering stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico and the city's historic architecture.
This historic city gate provides panoramic views of the old town and the surrounding area, perfect for capturing the city's charm.
Visit this historic fort for breathtaking views of the city and the coastline, great for capturing both natural and architectural beauty.
Food in Campeche
Campeche Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Poc-chuc is a traditional Mayan dish featuring marinated pork, typically grilled and served with pickled onions, rice, and black beans. This succulent and flavorful dish can be savored at local eateries and traditional restaurants like La Pigua.
Must-Try!
Panuchos are a beloved Yucatecan dish consisting of corn tortillas stuffed with refried beans and topped with various garnishes such as shredded chicken, avocado, pickled onions, and salsa. For an authentic taste, head to the bustling Mercado de San Benito.
Cochinita Pibil, a hallmark of Yucatecan cuisine, is slow-roasted marinated pork wrapped in banana leaves, resulting in tender and aromatic meat. Sample this iconic dish at La Parroquia, renowned for its traditional preparation.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Campeche better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
One of Campeche's most vibrant food markets, Mercado de San Benito offers a sensory feast of local specialties, including fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and street food stalls serving up delectable dishes like panuchos, salbutes, and empanadas.
Along the scenic malecón, visitors can find an array of street food vendors offering freshly grilled seafood, ceviche, and refreshing aguas frescas. This is an ideal spot to savor coastal delights while soaking in stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Campeche, it is important to show respect for elders by using formal titles such as 'Señor' and 'Señora' when addressing them.
Greetings are an important part of the culture, so it is customary to greet people with a handshake and maintain a comfortable distance while conversing to respect personal space.
Respectful behavior includes expressing appreciation for the local cuisine, such as traditional Mayan dishes, and showing gratitude when dining at local restaurants.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Campeche with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Campeche
Ensure a smooth experience
In Campeche, it is customary to tip around 10-15% in restaurants if a service charge is not already included. Tipping hotel staff, tour guides, and taxi drivers is also appreciated but not always expected.
Most businesses in Campeche accept major credit cards, but it's also a good idea to carry cash, especially for smaller vendors and markets. ATMs are widely available in the city for cash withdrawals.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Campeche.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The summer season is the most popular time to visit Campeche, with warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine. However, it can also be humid and prone to occasional tropical storms.
Winter brings cooler temperatures and less humidity, making it a comfortable time to visit Campeche. There are also fewer tourists during this season.
Spring is a pleasant time to visit Campeche, with mild temperatures and beautiful blooming flowers. It's a great time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Fall in Campeche can bring rain showers and the occasional hurricane, so it's important to keep an eye on the weather if planning a visit during this season.
Campeche at Night
Hiking in Campeche
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A large biosphere reserve with lush jungles, wildlife, and ancient Mayan ruins, offering various hiking trails for nature enthusiasts.
Located slightly further away, this park features diverse ecosystems, offering spectacular hiking routes with stunning mountain views.
A mid-level hiking spot in Campeche, known for its beautiful scenic views and natural landscapes, suitable for day hikes.
Although primarily a wetland area, it offers several trail options around the lagoon for those interested in bird watching and nature walks.
A historical trail that crosses through various landscapes in the region, excellent for hikers interested in culture and history alongside nature.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Campeche through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Campeche by plane.
The nearest airport serving Campeche, Mexico, with limited international connections.
Located in Cozumel, this airport serves several international flights especially from North America.
Located in Merida, it offers a wide range of domestic and international flights.
One of the busiest airports in Mexico, located in Cancun, with numerous international connections.
Located in Villahermosa, this airport serves both domestic and limited international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of the population in Campeche, comprising mixed indigenous and European ancestry.
The original inhabitants of the region, including groups like the Maya who have a significant cultural presence.
A small but notable demographic group descended from African slaves brought to the region.
Latinos of full Spanish ancestry, typically concentrated in urban areas.
People from other Mexican states who have moved to Campeche for work or family reasons.
The Soul of Campeche
Discover the essence of Campeche through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is the most popular sport in Campeche, with many local clubs and a strong following among fans, especially during the national league matches.
Baseball enjoys great popularity in Campeche, where local teams participate in the Mexican league, and the sport has a significant cultural impact in the region.
Basketball is widely played and enjoyed in Campeche, with various schools and amateur leagues contributing to its growth.
Volleyball is a popular sport in Campeche, particularly along the coast, with many beach courts available for play.
Boxing has a strong presence in Campeche, with local gyms training many athletes and hosting amateur competitions.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Campeche.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Campeche's traditional cuisine prominently features seafood and pork, many restaurants and cafes offer vegetarian and vegan adaptations of classic dishes, such as panuchos and papadzules, often prepared with creative plant-based fillings and toppings.
Travelers with gluten restrictions can find accommodating options at various establishments in Campeche, with restaurants and cafes offering gluten-free versions of dishes like cochinita pibil and providing alternatives such as corn tortillas or rice-based accompaniments.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Campeche with these cultural adventures.
