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Getting to Valladolid

Valladolid, a charming colonial town in the Yucatán Peninsula, is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the region. Located approximately 97 miles (156 kilometers) west of Cancun, and 102 miles (164 kilometers) east of Merida, it offers a perfect blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. Notably, it's also close to the iconic ruins of Chichen Itza, making it a popular stop for travelers visiting the famous site. Here’s your guide on how to get to Valladolid from both Cancun and Merida, along with some tips for an enjoyable journey.


From Cancun to Valladolid


Private Transport

For a truly comfortable and stress-free journey, why not opt for a direct private transfer from Cancun to Valladolid? This option allows you to travel at your own pace, making it perfect for groups or families. With 24/7 service available from any location in Cancun, including Cancun International Airport, a private van can accommodate up to 10 people. While the cost may be slightly higher at $350 per van transfer, it offers a convenient and direct route to your destination. You can book your private transfer here.


By Car

If you prefer to drive, renting a car is a great option. The journey takes approximately 2 hours. There are two routes: a toll road and a free road. If you're in a hurry, the toll road is the way to go, while those with more time may prefer the scenic free road for a more immersive experience.

  1. Toll Road: This well-maintained road is the fastest option when driving to Valladolid, this is the route that the ADO bus, and private transport services will take. Although there’s a toll to use the road, the efficiency and comfort it offers are often worth the price.

  2. Free Road: This scenic route takes nearly an hour longer but is perfect for those wanting to explore. You can stop at various cenotes along the route, making it a great choice for adventurers, it passes through local towns with many stalls along the route selling local food, produce, and souvenirs (often for a better price than you can find in Valladolid, Cancun, and other towns and cities more popularly visited.)



By Bus

The ADO bus service operates regularly from Cancun's bus station to Valladolid, taking about 2 hours. The comfortable buses are air-conditioned, ensuring a stress-free experience, this is the most 'budget-friendly' option when traveling from Cancun to Valladolid with tickets costing approximately 190 MXN - 250 MXN pesos ($10 - $13 USD) per person. They have coaches, as well as smaller shuttle buses available. The bus station in Valladolid is just two blocks from the main square.


By Train

The Tren Maya®, "Mayan Train” offers a modern and scenic way to travel from Cancun to Valladolid, taking approximately 1 hour 30 minutes. The service not only offers a contemporary, and comfortable journey but also provides panoramic views of the lush Yucatan landscape, enhancing the travel experience. Prices range from 472 MXN - 756 MXN (depending on the seat type that you choose) per person for international tourists, this is approximately $24 - $49 USD per person. Taking the train to Valladolid, you will arrive at the train station just outside the city, from here you can take a taxi to your destination.


From Merida to Valladolid


By Car

The drive from Merida to Valladolid is approximately 2 hours. Like the Cancun route, you can choose between using the toll road or driving the more scenic route on the free road.


  1. Toll Road: The toll road between Valladolid and Merida is a quick and efficient option, taking approximately 1 hour and 50 minutes to drive.

  2. Free Road: The free road provides an opportunity to explore beautiful cenotes and experience local scenery along the route, it takes a little longer than the toll road, at approximately 2 hours 20 minutes.


By Bus

The ADO bus service runs frequently from Merida's historic center to Valladolid, with a travel time of approximately 1 hours and 15 minutes. The buses are comfortable and feature air conditioning, ensuring a relaxing journey. Both coaches and smaller shuttle buses are available. This is the most 'budget-friendly' option when traveling from Merida to Valladolid with tickets costing approximately 168 MXN - 336 MXN pesos ($8 - $17 USD) per person. They have coaches, as well as smaller shuttle buses available.


By Tren Maya

Traveling from Merida to Valladolid on the Tren Maya®, "Mayan Train" is a fantastic choice. Departing from Teya Station, just outside the city, the journey takes 1 hour 50 minutes with two departures daily. The train provides a comfortable and scenic ride, making it a delightful way to see the region. Prices range from 506 MXN - 809 MXN (depending on the seat type that you choose) per person for international tourists, this is approximately $25 - $41 USD per person.


If you're coming from Cancun or Merida, getting to Valladolid is easy, with different options, and routes. Whether you choose the efficiency of a private transfer, the convenience of the ADO bus, or the scenic Tren Maya®, "Mayan Train", your journey to Valladolid will be as memorable as the destination itself. You can choose the option that best suites your budget and timing. Make sure to explore Valladolid’s rich cultural offerings once you arrive, and consider stopping at cenotes along the way for an unforgettable journey!

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