Landmarks of Yucatan, Mexico
The Yucatan Peninsula is located in the southeast of the country of Mexico. It is a popular tourist region in which the beach, nature and Mayan culture are the major attractions of the area. Yucatan is, in contrast to large parts of Mexico, fairly flat. Most tourists who come to Yucatan stay in the city of Cancun, in the more atmospheric Playa del Carmen or on the island of Cozumel. Due to the pleasant temperatures in the winter period, it is also busy in the Yucatan during the winter months.
Top 10 things to do in Yucatan
#1. Chichen Itza
One of the most important cities of the Maya was Chichén Itzá. The area is so large that it is recommended to hire a guide. You will find, among other things, the 365-step temple El Castillo (temple of Kukulcan), buildings in Puuc style and the observatory Caracol.
#2. Coba
According to BRIDGAT.COM, the Mayan city of Cobá is often visited for its ruins along the Lago Cobá and Lago Macanxoc lakes. Cobá is probably one of the oldest Mayan cities in the world. The highlight of a visit to these ruins is the oft-cited Temple Pyramid Nohoch-Mul also known as Castillo. The hundred-step temple is very impressive.
#3. Uxmal
Another ruin city is Uxmal. It is located about 80 kilometers south of Mérida. For example, there is the “pyramid of the wizard” about 40 meters high. It is again on a palace of the Vogelbinnenhof. You will also find a courtyard of the nunnery and cemetery group.
#4. Xelha
The archaeological site of Xelhá is located next to the city of Tulum. Xelhá has many treasures from the Mayan culture that can be visited. It belonged to one of the most important ports of that time. Now today Xelhá is also known for its Xel-Ha Natural Park. This commercial water park is centered in a natural cove where fresh and salt water meet. There is a natural aquarium and turtle sanctuary. Swimming with dolphins is one of the possibilities.
#5. Playa del Carmen
The seaside resort of Playa del Carmen can rightly be called a holiday village. The amount of luxury hotels, resorts on the beautiful beaches and chic clubs and bars have turned this once small fishing village into a true holiday paradise. Due to the mainly low-rise hotels, it does not appear as busy and grand as the seaside resort of Cancún. Of course, in Playa del Carmen, as in many other cities in Yucatan, ruins and pyramids can be found. Especially the Xaman-Ha ruins, which are scattered throughout the city. Playa del Carmen has everything to offer for a great stay.
#6. Tulum
Quintana Roo is home to the ancient Mayan city of Tulum. The city has a fairly unique location. It is located on a 12-meter high cliff on the Caribbean Sea, which gives you a majestic appearance over the turquoise-colored sea. Many historical sites can be found in and near the city of Tulum, including the Templo del Dios Descendente and the Templo de los Frescos murals.
#7. Cozumel
The island of Cozumel is a popular cruise ship docking point. The beautiful coral reefs invite you to dive and see the tropical fish. Mayan ruins can be seen in several places and there are still many unspoilt beaches to be found. In about 45 minutes you can take a ferry across to Playa del Carmen and San Miguel. The island of Cozumel has a wonderfully unique look and a beautiful sunset.
#8. Akumal
Many divers and surfers come to the resort of Akumal, which is located between the cities of Playa del Carmen and Tulum. Many reefs and caves are a true underwater spectacle. A translation of Akumal is “place of the turtles”. Snorkelers regularly encounter these under water. They often lay their eggs on the beach at night. The bay where Akumal is located is otherwise fairly quiet and has a very relaxed atmosphere.
#9. cancun
The most famous place in the Yucatan is the resort town of Cancún in the easternmost part of Mexico. Cancún has been a very popular holiday destination since 1960. Known for its beautiful beaches and nearby Mayan culture. With the arrival of many large hotels and resorts, there is unfortunately not much left of the authentic Cancún as a fishing village. Fortunately, the beautiful beaches, the warm climate and the fascinating underwater world still guarantee a wonderful stay in Cancún.
#10. Merida
The capital of Yucatan is Mérida. The colonial city has a beautiful cathedral on the central square ‘Plaza Grande’. Because most houses are predominantly white, Mérida is also called ‘La Ciudad Blanca’, the white city. The city has a number of beautiful parks such as the Santa Lucia Park where there is an antique market every Sunday. There is live music once a week in Santiago Park. There are many museums to visit in Mérida. A must is the museum of contemporary art MACAY Museum or the Mérida City Museum in the majestic former post office palace. Also visit the craft market of Lucas de Gálvez.