Campeche, Mexico: Walled City & Travel Guide
San Francisco de Campeche is a beautifully restored walled colonial city on the Gulf of Mexico — a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the gateway to the Maya ruins of Edzná and Calakmul.
Why visit Campeche?
San Francisco de Campeche is a beautifully restored walled colonial city on the Gulf of Mexico — a UNESCO World Heritage Site of pastel streets, Spanish fortifications built to fend off pirates, and an easygoing, uncrowded feel. It is also the gateway to two of the Maya world's great ruins, Edzná and Calakmul.
How to get to Campeche from the US
Campeche's airport (CPE) has limited service, so most US travelers fly into Mérida (MID) and drive about 2–2.5 hours, or connect through Mexico City. Campeche pairs naturally with a Yucatán road trip.
Best time to visit
November to March is the most comfortable, with warm, drier days. April to June is very hot, and the summer is humid with some rain.
Top things to do in Campeche
Walk the walled historic center and its colorful streets, climb the city gates and bastions (baluartes) for sea views, stroll the malecón at sunset, and take day trips to the Maya ruins of Edzná (about an hour away) and the remote jungle city of Calakmul near the Guatemala border.
Where to stay
Stay inside or just outside the walled city (Centro Histórico), where restored colonial buildings make charming boutique hotels within walking distance of everything.
Is Campeche safe for tourists?
Campeche carries a Level 2 “Exercise Increased Caution” advisory, the same level as most of Mexico's main tourist destinations. Campeche is widely regarded as one of the calmer, safer cities in southern Mexico. Use normal travel precautions and check the current US State Department Mexico Travel Advisory before your trip.
The Yucatán Peninsula Circuit
Campeche is the ideal starting point to explore the Yucatán Peninsula. Visit Mérida, an elegant colonial city, and the impressive Chichén Itzá ruins. From Campeche you can also access Palenque in Chiapas, with extraordinary Mayan ruins in the jungle. Complete the circuit with Cancún and the Riviera Maya.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Campeche?
On the Gulf of Mexico in the north of the Yucatán Peninsula, about 177 km (2–2.5 hours) from Mérida.
How do I get to Campeche from the US?
Campeche's airport (CPE) has limited service; most travelers fly into Mérida (MID) and drive about 2–2.5 hours, or connect through Mexico City.
What is there to do in Campeche?
Walk the walled historic center and its bastions, enjoy the malecón at sunset, and take day trips to the Maya ruins of Edzná and Calakmul.
When is the best time to visit?
November to March, when it is warm and drier. April to June is very hot and summer is humid.
Is Campeche safe for tourists?
Campeche carries a Level 2 ‘Exercise Increased Caution’ advisory and is regarded as one of the calmer, safer cities in southern Mexico. Use normal precautions and check the current US advisory.