San Francisco de Campeche
Mexico · Campeche · 5 m
Description
San Francisco de Campeche (Campeche) is the capital of the Mexican state of the same name and one of the country’s best-preserved colonial cities. The UNESCO-listed fortified city on the Gulf of Mexico is known for its pastel-colored façades, Baroque churches, historic bastions, and surviving sections of the city walls once built to protect it from pirate attacks. Campeche combines colonial heritage and maritime history with a relaxed atmosphere and a sweeping waterfront promenade along the Gulf. The tranquil coastal city also serves as a convenient base for excursions to the Maya ruins of Edzná and the dense jungle landscapes around Calakmul.
Length of stay
Recommended length of stay: 1 to 3 days (optimal 2 days)
Travel season
Best time to visit: December – February
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Highlights
- Historic Fortified Town of Campeche
- Campeche city walls & bastions (Baluartes)
- Historic center & colorful colonial streets
- Independence Square (Plaza de la Independencia)
- Cathedral of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception
- Puerta de Tierra
- Puerta de Mar
- Baluarte de San Carlos & City Museum
- Baluarte de la Soledad & Museum of Maya Architecture
- Baluarte de Santiago & Xmuch'haltún Botanical Garden
- Baluarte de San Pedro
- Baluarte de San Francisco
- Baluarte de Santa Rosa
- Baluarte de San Juan
- Fort of San Miguel & Museum of Maya Archaeology
- Fort of San José el Alto & Museum of Underwater Archaeology
- Edzná archaeological site(Day trip)
- Calakmul archaeological site & biosphere reserve(Day trip)
- Campeche Malecón
- Campeche letters on the Malecón
- Novia del Mar Monument
- Church of San Román & Black Christ
- Church of San Francisco
- Church of Guadalupe
- Calle 59
- Casa No. 6 Cultural Center
- Campeche seafood & pan de cazón
- Balamkú archaeological site(Day trip)
- Hochob archaeological site(Day trip)
- Isla Aguada & Laguna de Términos(Day trip)
- Dolphin watching at Isla Aguada(Day trip)
- Los Petenes Biosphere Reserve(Day trip)
- Miguel Colorado cenotes(Day trip)
Getting there
- Airports:
- CPE
- Train stations:
- San Francisco de Campeche