Things To Do
in Izamal
Izamal is a small colonial town in the Yucatán Peninsula known for its warm ochre-washed walls and sunlit plazas. It sits at the crossroads of Maya history and Spanish colonial heritage, crowned by the imposing Convento de San Antonio de Padua. The town’s streets radiate from a grand central square and weave between pyramids, monasteries, and colorful doorways.
Today, visitors come to wander its photogenic streets, sample regional cuisine, and savor a unique blend of Mayan and Catholic culture.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by wandering through the picturesque streets of Izamal, known for its vibrant yellow buildings and colonial charm. Visit the majestic Convento de San Antonio de Padua, a stunning 16th-century convent that stands on the site of an ancient Mayan temple. Don’t forget to capture the essence of this magical town with some photographs as the morning sunlight brings out the vibrant hues.
After a hearty traditional lunch, continue your exploration by visiting the local artisan shops where you can find unique handicrafts made by local artisans. Spend some time at the Kinich Kakmó pyramid; climb to the top for an astounding view of the surrounding area, immersing yourself in the rich history of the ancient Mayans. As you walk back to the town center, enjoy the lively atmosphere filled with locals and visitors alike.
As the sun sets, take a leisurely stroll through the town square, enjoying the warm evening air and the glow of the streetlights against the yellow buildings. Stop at a local restaurant for dinner, where you can savor authentic Yucatecan cuisine and perhaps listen to live music. End the day by taking in the peaceful ambiance of Izamal, reflecting on the day's adventures.
Rise early for a day trip to the nearby Mayan ruins of Ek' Balam, where you can explore ancient temples and enjoy the impressive architecture. Climb to the top of the Acropolis for breathtaking views of the jungle and the surrounding landscape. This immersive experience offers a glimpse into the grandeur of the Mayan civilization.
After exploring Ek' Balam, return to Izamal for a leisurely lunch at a local eatery, enjoying Yucatec cuisine like cochinita pibil or panuchos. Post-lunch, relax in the quaint town square, where you can engage with locals and experience the vibrant culture surrounding you. Use this time for shopping, picking up souvenirs or gifts that highlight the region's artisan crafts.
Spend your evening visiting the local market, where you can find fresh produce, spices, and handcrafted items while absorbing the lively atmosphere of the town. Consider joining a food tour to experience a range of local dishes and learn about their significance within Yucatecan culture. As night falls, enjoy a slow-paced stroll and witness the warm glow of the yellow buildings under the stars.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $1-3 |
| 🌮Street snack | $1-3 |
| 🚌Local transportation (short ride) | $1-3 |
| 🛏️Hostal/guesthouse bed | $12-25 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Photogenic yellow-town aesthetics and a compact historic center
- Rich blend of Maya heritage and Spanish colonial architecture
- Proximity to Mérida and other Yucatán highlights
- Delicious regional cuisine and approachable markets
- Limited nightlife compared to larger destinations
- Very hot and humid in peak season
- Limited large-scale public transport within town
- Some attractions require day trips outside Izamal
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "Estoy perdido" - I am lost
Places to Visit in Izamal
Visit one of these nice places.
Massive ochre walls, archways, and a grand staircase provide striking backdrops at all hours, especially during golden hour.
A Mayan pyramid near Izamal offering elevated views over the town and surrounding countryside; ideal for wide-angle and sunset shots.
Symmetrical streets and vibrant doorways framed by the yellow facades create classic travel photography scenes.
Every corner features colorful doors, ironwork, and shaded arcades perfect for street photography and portrait work.
Food in Izamal
Izamal Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Slow-roasted pork marinated in achiote and spices, traditionally cooked in a pit; best enjoyed with fresh tortillas and pickled onions.
Must-Try!
Bright lime-infused chicken soup with tortilla strips and aromatic herbs; a refreshing starter or light meal.
Corn tortillas rolled and filled with pumpkin-seed sauce and eggs, topped with tomato-chile sauce.
Layered fish and tortilla dish fried to a crisp, often served with tomato sauce and onions.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Traditional market offering fresh produce, local snacks, tortillas, and everyday ingredients; a great place to try marquesitas and other street treats.
Crispy crepe-like rolled snacks filled with cheese and optional toppings like chocolate or Nutella; commonly found from street vendors near the plazas.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet people with a friendly 'Buenos días' or 'Buenas tardes' when entering shops or beginning conversations.
Dress modestly and speak softly when visiting churches or religious sites; photography may be restricted inside some locations.
Safety
Tipping in Izamal
Ensure a smooth experience
In sit-down restaurants, tip 10-15% if service is not included. For street food and mercados, tipping is optional and usually modest. Taxis typically do not expect tips beyond small change or rounding up.
Cash (MXN) is widely accepted in markets and small eateries. Many restaurants in Izamal accept cards, but carry cash for markets and street stalls. ATMs are available in town and Mérida for larger withdrawals.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with blooming flowers; expect comfortable wandering weather but still prepare for strong sun.
Hot and humid with frequent afternoon showers; carry water, sunscreen, and a light rain shell.
Pleasant daytime temperatures; ideal for walking tours and photography without extreme heat.
Milder evenings and comfortable daytime temperatures; great for outdoor exploring and market visits.
Izamal at Night
Hiking in Izamal
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Moderate hike through the Puuc limestone hills near Uxmal, offering forest views, ancient ruins, and a sense of stepping back in time.
Nature trails near Mérida with cenotes and birdwatching; a good day trip for light hiking connected to archaeological sites.
Airports
How to reach Izamal by plane.
Main international gateway for the region; about 60-70 miles (roughly 1.5 hours by road) from Izamal. Regular domestic and some international connections; taxis or shuttles connect to Izamal.
A major international hub about 180 miles (3.5–4 hours by road) from Izamal; useful for later legs of a Yucatán itinerary.
Smaller regional airport about a few hours from Izamal; alternative for some routes and connections within the region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Izamal sits within a region with a significant Maya presence alongside mestizo communities; Spanish is the predominant language with Yucatec Maya spoken by some residents.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across the region; local games and pick-up matches are common in town and nearby communities.
A regional pastime with local leagues and community events in towns throughout Yucatán.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Izamal.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes feature pork or chicken; opt for sopa de lima without chicken stock, fresh salads, beans, rice, and cheese-filled options. Look for vegetarian plates at mercados or request plant-based versions of classic dishes.