We spent nearly 6 months exploring the Yucatan peninsula, and one of the most magical stops was Izamal, a small town that stole our hearts. We called it home for about a month, soaking in the vibrant yellow streets, rich history, and laid-back vibes. In this post, I’m sharing everything we got into while living in this sunshine-soaked city.

Where Is the Small City of Izamal?

This little gem, which seriously feels like it should be a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is tucked away in the state of Yucatán, Mexico. We called it home for about a month (maybe two? time kinda blurred 😅) thanks to its super central location. 

Izamal is just a short distance north of the 180 toll road, making it an easy one-hour drive from both Mérida’s city center and the iconic Chichen Itza. Plus, it’s surrounded by tons of other historical sites that make exploring this region so worth it.

How to Get to Izamal

There are a few ways to reach Izamal, Mexico. We chose to rent a car, thanks to a great deal with America Car Rental, which gave us the freedom to explore nearby sites at our own pace. The Tren Maya Izamal Station wasn’t open yet when we visited, but it is now and makes for a great option if you’re planning a day trip without a car. You can also hop on an ADO bus, which connects Izamal with major cities like Mérida and Valladolid.

Getting to Izamal is easy and flexible:

• ADO bus: Comfortable, frequent services link Izamal with Mérida, Cancún, and Valladolid, perfect for families.
  
• Rental car: Offers freedom to explore the Yucatán countryside roads are good and tolls are manageable. This is our preferred method.
  
• Tren Maya (The Mayan train): The new Izamal station lies about 7 km southwest of town. A short taxi or shuttle (about 35 MXN) gets you into the center.

Why Is Izamal Yellow & What’s the Best Way to Experience It?

There’s no one official answer, but a local told us the yellow buildings are painted that way to honor the Mayan sun god, Kinich Kak Moo, whose name means “the fire macaw with the sun face.” Yellow symbolizes the sun, and the whole town glows in his honor.

The best way to soak it all in? On foot. Wandering the colonial streets lets you slow down and admire the Spanish-style architecture mixed with traditional Mayan homes. Some buildings date back to the 1700s, and others are still made with thatched roofs and natural materials passed down through generations. It’s like walking through a living history book, just way more colorful.

What Are The Best Hotels in Izamal?

We were originally searching for a month-long rental closer to Mérida and Chichen Itza, but we ended up finding a spacious home right in the heart of this yellow city. We love small towns with rich history, and Izamal completely won us over. It was the perfect place to settle in for a while.

Coqui Coqui Casa de los Santos Izamal

While we didn’t get the chance to stay here, this boutique property is absolutely stunning and one of the best Izamal Hotels. Even if you’re not checking in, it’s worth stopping by for their signature perfumes and thoughtful gifts to bring home. Coqui Coqui has locations all over, but this one in Izamal is one of our top picks for a luxurious and aesthetic stay.

Hacienda Hotel Santo Domingo

Tucked just outside the main hustle of town, this peaceful hacienda is perfect if you’re looking for a quiet retreat. The property offers a variety of room types, including junior and family suites, making it a great place for couples or families needing a little more space to spread out.

Hotel San Miguel Arcangel

If you want to be in the heart of Izamal, this charming hotel puts you right in the middle of it all. Some rooms offer balconies, and the peaceful courtyard—with its koi pond and lush greenery adds a relaxing touch to your stay. It’s a cozy base for exploring the yellow city.

Are You Traveling With Kids?

If you’re adventuring with little ones like we are, there are plenty of family-friendly options, too. Just a heads-up: hotels closer to the city center and the main church tend to have a livelier nightlife scene. It’s part of the charm, but it also means louder music and more activity on weekends. If you’re looking for peace and quiet, consider staying a bit farther from the action.

Key Dates to Know Before You Book a Stay in Izamal

October 19–28

Izamal comes alive during the Fiesta of the Santo Cristo de Sitilpech, a deeply respected celebration honoring the Black Christ. Expect colorful festivities and fireworks, day and night. It’s beautiful, but definitely not quiet!

October 31–November 2

Experience Hanal Pixán, Yucatán’s unique version of Day of the Dead. This cultural celebration includes altars, traditional foods, and deep-rooted Mayan customs honoring loved ones who have passed.

If you’re visiting during these dates, be sure to book early and pack some earplugs just in case 😉

Things To Do in Izamal

Take a ride in one of the Horse-Drawn Carriages

One of the most charming ways to see Izamal is by hopping in a horse-drawn carriage. The coachmen usually hang out near popular spots like the base of Pyramid Kinich Kak Moo on Calle 27, around the center of town, or by the main church and El Arco de Izamal on Calle 31.

If you’re out for a stroll, you might even spot them in quieter corners of town—like I did near Capilla de San Roman while getting some steps in. It’s a fun, relaxed way to soak in the yellow city’s colonial charm.

Visit the Convento de San Antonio aka the Yellow Catholic Church 

Visit the Convento de San Antonio, the iconic yellow Catholic church at the heart of Izamal. It’s home to the largest atrium in the Americas and blends ancient Mayan roots with Catholic tradition. It was painted yellow in honor of the visit of Pope John Paul II in August 1993.

Which Archaeological Site Should You Visit?

The yellow city of Izamal is home to three unique archaeological sites worth exploring. If time allows, visit all three, each set of Mayan ruins tells its own story and served a different purpose in ancient times, offering a deeper glimpse into the region’s history.

Pirámide Kabúl

Just a few blocks from the Convento de San Antonio de Padua, the Kabúl Pyramid is a fascinating glimpse into Izamal’s ancient past. You can even spot it from the elevated church grounds! While it’s located on private property and not easily accessible, it’s still worth a look.

Zona Arqueológica Chaltún Há

Located on the south side of town, Chaltún Há is about a 25-minute walk or a short drive from the center. Hidden off the typical tourist path, these ruins sit in a lush, jungle-like setting. We didn’t get to explore them ourselves, but if you’ve got the time, it’s a peaceful spot worth checking out!

Kinich Kakmó Pyramid

This massive archaeological site quickly became a regular stop on my walks to the grocery store, it’s just a short detour from the town center. Covering an entire city block at 200 by 180 meters and standing 34 meters tall, Kinich Kak Moo is one of the largest pyramids in the Yucatán and is dedicated to the Mayan sun god. 

It’s easy to access during the day through the main gate, though you might find side stairways if you’re wandering. What makes it extra special? Its size, central location, and the fact that it’s totally free to visit.

Walking around this towering structure feels like stepping into a history book.

Pro Tip: After soaking in the views, grab a cold ice cream from the little shop by the entrance, it’s the perfect way to cool off in the Yucatán heat!

Pirámide de Itzamatul

This second pyramid in Izamal feels peaceful and almost hidden, surrounded by trees and tucked away from the crowds. From the street, it may not look like much, but there’s a quiet trail that wraps around the back and leads to the top.

The final seven steps feel symbolic, often linked to completion, spiritual connection, and Mayan beliefs about nature and cycles. It’s not just a climb, it’s a moment to pause and reflect. If you’re looking for a more introspective and off-the-beaten-path experience, this site delivers.

The Best Restaurants in Izamal 

Restaurante Zamna

This charming spot sits right off Calle 31 as you enter Izamal from the west. We stopped here for lunch and it did not disappoint. The menu is full of delicious Mayan dishes that feel both homey and elevated.

Some must-tries: the rice with fried plantains and pickled red onions, empanadas made with chaya leaf masa (seriously, the texture and flavor pop!), and of course, cochinita pibil tacos. Don’t leave without trying those.

Restaurante Kinich Izamal

Just two blocks from the main square (Plaza Izamal), this restaurant is perfect for a family meal, whether you’re a group of 4 or 20. They’ve got plenty of space and even a playground to keep the kids entertained.

They serve up traditional Mayan dishes, including a standout cochinita pibil. Honestly, we thought it edged out the version at Restaurante Zamna just a bit, but both are worth a visit! You can check out their full menu here.

Short Day Trips from Izamal

We actually loved being based in Izamal, it’s quiet, colorful, and centrally located to so many unforgettable experiences. If you’re planning a visit, here are a few amazing day trips that are totally doable from town:

• Chichén Itzá – One of the most iconic ruins in Mexico, and it lives up to the hype.
  
• Valladolid – A charming colonial town with great food and cenotes nearby.
  
• Iglesia de Uayma – This colorful church is stunning and super photogenic.
  
• Cenote Suytun – That famous beam-of-light photo spot? Yep, it’s here.
  
• Celestún – Head here for the flamingos and boat tours through the biosphere reserve.
  
• Pomuch – If you’re visiting during Día de Muertos, don’t miss the powerful tradition of bone cleaning in this small but meaningful town. Full article here.

Should You Visit Izamal, Mexico With Your Family?

Is Izamal worth visiting? Absolutely. This yellow city is a popular destination for weekend day-trippers from nearby cities like Merida, and it’s easy to see why. It has that Pueblo Magico charm, reminding us a bit of Todos Santos with its colorful culture and colonial-meets-Mayan vibes.

If you’re slow traveling like we are, Izamal is a gem. Between the ancient pyramids and Spanish-style buildings, you might start wondering if you’re in Mexico or a quaint European village. While the restaurant scene has a few solid spots, don’t expect endless variety like in larger cities.

We spent the month of October here and loved using it as a home base to explore the region. One highlight was visiting Pomuch, where we witnessed the tradition of Choo Ba’ak, relatives cleaning the bones of their loved ones. We also celebrated Hanal Pixán (Yucatán’s Day of the Dead) in Merida with friends, and if you’re here during this time, don’t miss the Festival de las Catrinas.

Izamal might be a small town, but it’s packed with meaning, beauty, and unforgettable family moments.