Izamal, Mexico: Discover The Yellow City of Yucatan
Izamal, Mexico is a charming and picturesque town located in the heart of the Yucatan Peninsula. Nicknamed the “Yellow City” for its traditional golden-yellow buildings, Izamal is a town with a rich colonial past, accessible ancient ruins, and a friendly, small-town atmosphere. Find out how to plan a visit to this up-and-coming destination.
Have you heard of Yucatan’s Yellow City? Izamal is a colonial town located between Merida and Valladolid, close enough to be seen on a day trip from either. But if you have more time, you won’t regret spending longer in this sunny little city!
The town is easily explored on foot, and spiffy horse-drawn carriages add to its charm. Visitors can stroll down the cobblestone streets and admire the bright hue of the buildings, or take a self-guided tour to learn more about the town’s history and culture.
With its colorful colonial architecture, ancient ruins, and friendly locals, Izamal is a must-visit destination for travelers to the Yucatan Peninsula. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or simply soaking up the atmosphere of a charming Mexican town, Izamal belongs on your Yucatan itinerary.
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Want to visit Izamal on a tour? These options have great reviews and easy online booking:
From Cancun: Private Day Tour from Cancun to Izamal with Lunch
Looking for a great hotel near Izamal?
Try the Coqui Coqui Casa de los Santos Izamal for Yucatecan charm with adults-only modern luxury, or the HOTEL BOUTiQUE KOCAI condo hotel in town with thatched roof rooms, AC, and a sparkling pool.
In this Guide to Izamal, Mexico: The Yellow City
History of Izamal Mexico | Things to Do in Izamal | Convento de San Antonio de Padua | Kinich Kakmó Pyramid | Food and Drink | Culture and Festivals | Where to Stay in Izamal | When to Visit | Getting There | Tours to Izamal | Why You Should Visit
History of Izamal Mexico
Izamal is a small city located in the Mexican state of Yucatán, approximately 72 kilometers (45 miles) east of the state capital, Mérida. The city has a rich history that dates back to the 8th century BC, when it was first settled by the Mayan civilization. The city was an important center for the worship of the Maya god, Itzamná, and the sun god, Kinich-Kakmó. A dozen temple pyramids were devoted to these or other gods.
When the Spanish arrived in Izamal, they built a town on the same site where the indigenous people had lived. The Spanish colonists chose Izamal as the site for an enormous and impressive Franciscan monastery, which was built on top of a pre-existing Mayan temple. This monastery, known as the Convento de San Antonio de Padua, is still standing today and is one of the city’s most popular tourist attractions.
Throughout most of Mesoamerican history, Izamal was continuously occupied. In 2000, the city’s estimated population was 15,000 people.
Today, Izamal is known in Yucatán as the Yellow City (or La Ciudad Amarilla), as most of its buildings are painted yellow. The city is also known as the City of Hills, due to the Mayan ruins that form hills surrounding the town center.
Things to Do in Izamal Mexico, The Yellow City
Many travelers wonder if Izamal is worth visiting. Izamal is an an authentic Mexican town and an interesting destination. It offers a special mixture of history, culture, gastronomy, and landscapes – especially with its Mayan ruins.
Here’s an overview of the primary attractions in Izamal that encapsulate the magic of this charming city.
Explore the Colonial City Center
The colonial city center of Izamal is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting the area. This is where you can really see why it is known as the “Yellow City” due to the painted buildings that line the streets. Visitors can explore the city center on foot or by horse-drawn carriage (known locally as calesas) to take in the golden architecture and vibrant culture.
Convento de San Antonio de Padua | Izamal Convent
The Izamal Monastery, also known as Convento de San Antonio de Padua, is the most important historic landmark in the city.
An important example of Spanish colonial design, the Convento de San Antonio de Padua was constructed in 1561. Built by the Spanish atop the Maya temple Ppap Hol Chak, the Franciscan convent has a spacious outdoor atrium, second in size only to that at the Vatican itself. Its calm ambiance and gorgeous murals are an essential stop for lovers of history and art.
Visitors can explore the monastery’s beautiful architecture and learn about its history.
Note: Modern English-speakers are used to convents being places for nuns, but in earlier days and other languages, this was a general term used also for monasteries.
The Significance of the Pope’s Visit
One of the Convent’s most noteworthy events was the visit of Pope John Paul II in 1993. This monumental occasion was a symbolic gesture to reconcile the Catholic Church with the indigenous Maya community.
During this visit, the Pope held a significant mass in the Convent’s atrium, acknowledging and respecting the deep-rooted spiritual beliefs of the indigenous people while fostering dialogue and understanding between cultures.
In the outdoor atrium, you’ll see a statue of Pope John Paul II that commemorates his visit
Kinich Kakmó Pyramid
The Kinich Kakmó Pyramid is an ancient Mayan pyramid located just a few blocks north of the Convent. It is one of the largest pyramids in the Yucatan Peninsula and is believed to have been built between 800 and 1000 AD. Visitors can climb to the top of the pyramid for stunning views of the surrounding area.
The Izamatul Pyramid and Other Maya Sites in Izamal
The Izamatul Pyramid is often overlooked by visitors, providing a more peaceful exploration opportunity. Other historical remnants scattered throughout the town are the El Conejo, Chaltun Ha, Habuc, and Kabul Ruins. Though not as grand in stature as Kinich Kakmó, these sites hold significant value in the region’s past.
Parque Itzamna | Plaza Izamal
This park is located just north of the Convent and is the home of the famous “Izamal letters.” Be sure to snap a photo here!
Parque 5 de Mayo
Located diagonal from Parque Itzamna, this large plaza has many benches for sitting and watching the town go by. This park as well as the Izamal Plaza are often full of vendors, carnival attractions, and street food during festivals.
Izamal Market
The Izamal Market is a bustling hub of activity where visitors can experience the local culture and buy handmade crafts and souvenirs. The market is open every day and is a great place to find unique gifts and mementos of your trip to Izamal.
Centro Cultural y Artesanal
Izamal’s Centro Cultural y Artesanal serves as a focal point for regional art and craftsmanship. This cultural venue exhibits works from the area’s skilled creators, granting a unique window into the city’s artistic side.
Hecho a Mano Izamal
Hecho a Mano Izamal is a prime market featuring handcrafted items from local artisans. You’ll find a wide variety of traditional products and souvenirs here.
Izamal Video Mapping Light Show
Monday – Saturday nights (no Sundays) at 8:30PM there is a free light and sound show projected on the facade of the Convent. Titled The Light of the Maya,the show lasts about a half hour.
Food and Drink in Izamal
Izamal is a great destination for those who love Mexican cuisine. The city is known for its delicious and authentic Yucatecan dishes, which are a blend of Mayan, Spanish, and even some Caribbean flavors. The food in Izamal is not only tasty but also affordable, making it a good place for budget travelers.
One of the must-try dishes in Izamal is the cochinita pibil, a slow-roasted pork marinated in achiote paste and sour orange juice. It is usually served with tortillas, pickled onions, and habanero salsa. Another popular dish is papadzules, a traditional Yucatecan dish made of rolled tortillas filled with hard-boiled eggs and topped with pumpkin seed sauce.
Also keep an eye out for poc chuc. This is thinly sliced pork marinated in sour orange juice and spices, grilled to perfection and served with pickled onions and roasted vegetables.
Tzic de venado is another popular local dish which consists of shredded venison with orange and lime juice, chiles, and cilantro piled on tostadas or tortillas.
Kinich El Sabor de Izamal
If you are looking for a place to eat, Kinich El Sabor de Izamal is one of the best restaurants in the city. It offers a wide range of Yucatecan dishes, including cochinita pibil, papadzules, and sopa de lima (lime soup). The restaurant is located in a beautiful colonial building with a charming courtyard, making it a perfect spot for a romantic dinner.
Street Food in Izamal
If you prefer street food, head to the market in the center of the city. You can find a variety of snacks, such as panuchos (tortillas filled with refried beans and topped with shredded chicken, pickled onions, and avocado), salbutes (fried tortillas topped with shredded chicken, lettuce, tomato, and avocado), and marquesitas (rolled wafers filled with cheese and sweet toppings).
For those who want to learn more about Yucatecan cuisine, guided tours here often include stops for food and drink in Izamal. These tours take you to local markets and restaurants. Some even include cooking classes, where you can learn how to make traditional dishes like cochinita pibil and papadzules. By joining these tours, you can also get a deeper understanding of the local culture and history.
Culture and Festivals in Izamal
City of Three Cultures
Izamal’s heritage is a blend of Maya civilization, Spanish colonization, and today’s contemporary society. Referred to as the “City of Three Cultures,” Izamal embodies the intersection of pre-Columbian, colonial, and modern civilizations. The blending of these cultural eras is still visible today in the city’s buildings, cusine, culture, and people.
Ancient times saw Izamal as a vital Maya ceremonial center, hosting architectural wonders like the Kinich Kakmó Pyramid. Additional Maya sites like the Itzamatul, Kabul, and Ppap Hol Chak complexes reveal more aspects of the ancient civilization.
The Spanish arrival in the 16th century marked a pivotal moment, leading to cultural and architectural changes. The Convento de San Antonio de Padua, constructed atop Maya ruins in 1561, stands as a symbol of Spanish influence. Along with the convent, churches and chapels throughout the city signify the Spanish impact on Izamal’s architecture and culture.
In Izamal today the Mayan language is spoken as much as Spanish; it is the first language still in many homes. When you visit, listen to see if you can hear residents conversing in Mayan!
The city’s culinary scene is another reflection of its blended heritage, featuring a menu of Yucatecan dishes that incorporate both Maya and Spanish ingredients and cooking techniques.
In 2008, Izamal was placed on the tentative list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. This list includes natural and/or cultural heritage locations that a State Party believes possess potential Outstanding Universal Value to people across the globe, making them fitting candidates for nomination to the World Heritage List.
Hanal Pixán
Hanal Pixán is a traditional festival celebrated throughout Yucatan. Other regions of Mexico celebrate a similar holiday known as Dia de Muertos, but the Yucatecan version is called Hanal Pixán. The festival takes place from late October until November 1st and 2nd and is a time for families to honor and remember their loved ones who have passed away.
During the festival, families build altars in their homes and decorate them with flowers, candles, and food offerings. The streets of Izamal are also decorated with colorful altars, and there are parades and processions throughout the city.
Feast of the Immaculate Conception
Izamal celebrates the Feast of the Immaculate Conception in December, which merges Catholic customs with Maya practices, music, and dance. Both residents and tourists assemble to partake in parades, fireworks, and indigenous performances, all of which emphasize the city’s distinct cultural character.
Izamal Carnival
The Izamal Carnival is a lively and colorful event that takes place in February or March, depending on the date of Easter. The festival is a celebration of the arrival of spring and is marked by music, dancing, and parades.
The streets of Izamal are decorated with colorful streamers and balloons, and the locals dress up in elaborate costumes and masks. The carnival is a great time to experience local culture and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
Other Festivals in Izamal
Aside from these two festivals, Izamal also celebrates other traditional Mexican holidays such as Independence Day and Christmas. Visitors to Izamal during these holidays can enjoy parades, fireworks, and other cultural events.
Where to Stay in Izamal
Izamal offers a range of accommodations, from budget-friendly hostels to upscale haciendas. If you can visit Izamal for an overnight or longer stay, here are some of my top hotel recommendations.
- Luxury: Coqui Coqui Casa de los Santos Izamal | Yucatecan charm with modern luxury, offering a serene, adults-only retreat in the heart of historic Izamal.
- Midrange: Hacienda Sacnicte | Restored hacienda outside town blending colonial elegance with lush landscapes.
- Midrange, in town: HOTEL BOUTiQUE KOCAI | Condo hotel in town with thatched roof rooms, AC, and a sparkling pool.
- Budget: Hotel San Miguel Arcángel | Mexican-style hotel located near Izamal’s main square., with an on-site cafeteria and tropical gardens.
When to Visit Izamal, The Yellow City
November to March during the dry season is the best time to visit Izamal.
Izamal experiences a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry periods.
The dry season runs from November to March, offering sunny days with slightly milder temperatures, making it the best time for sightseeing. Expect temperatures from the mid-60s to low-80s Fahrenheit (around 8°C to 28°C).
The wet season spans from June to October. If you visit during this time, expect occasional heavy rains and higher humidity. Temperatures range from the high-70s to mid-90s Fahrenheit (around 25°C to 34°C).
Be sure to pack light, breathable clothing, a hat and sunscreen; with a rain jacket or umbrella if visiting during the wetter months.
Getting There and Around
Izamal is located in the Mexican state of Yucatán, 45 miles (72 km) east of the state capital of Mérida. Here are some ways to get to and around Izamal.
By Car
The best way to get around Izamal and its surrounding areas is by car. The toll roads in the Yucatán are well-maintained and safe. If you’re flying into the region, you can rent a car at the airport in Merida or Cancun. If you’re already in the area, there are several car rental agencies in Mérida and other nearby cities. Some hotels (such as in Tulum) will also help you arrange car rental.
By Bus
There are several bus companies that operate between Mérida and Izamal.
- The Oriente bus line offers regular services between Merida and Izamal, with the journey taking approximately 1.5 hours. Buses leave from Terminal Oriente, and tickets can be purchased directly at the station for the equivalent of $2-3 USD.
By Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Mérida and other nearby cities. The cost of a taxi ride from Mérida to Izamal is around around $40-50 USD. At the taxi stand, you might be able to share a taxi (colectivo-style) with other travelers; you would need to wait for others to join, though.
If you’re staying in Izamal, you can also hire a taxi to take you to nearby attractions, such as the cenotes in Cuzamá.
By Train
Mexico’s Tren Maya is planned to begin operating in December 2023 and Izamal is one of the stops along its Gulf Route! Find out more and start planning your journey with my preview of the Maya Train route and sights.
By Tour from Merida or Cancun
From Cancun: Private Day Tour from Cancun to Izamal with Lunch
Getting Around Izamal
Izamal is a small city, and most of its attractions are within walking distance of each other. However, if you prefer not to walk, there are several options for getting around:
- Bicycles: You can rent bicycles from several shops in town like Izamal Bike. This is a great way to explore the city and its surrounding areas.
- Horse-drawn carriages: Horse-drawn carriages are a popular way to explore Izamal.
- Taxis: Taxis are readily available in Izamal.
Why Is Izamal Yellow?
The signature yellow color of Izamal is a defining aspect of the city, yet the precise cause of this choice is shrouded in a combination of history, myth, and guesswork. Here are the main theories:
- Spiritual meaning: The prevalent belief connects the yellow shade to the Mayan Sun God, Kinich Ahau. Since Izamal was once a vital religious hub devoted to this god, the color may have been selected to pay tribute to him. The existence of a grand pyramid devoted to Kinich Ahau in the city’s center backs this idea.
- Colonial influence: Another perspective argues that the yellow was picked during the time of Spanish rule. In the Catholic faith, yellow symbolizes God’s presence. Thus, the Spaniards might have used yellow to symbolize the merging of Mayan and Catholic beliefs.
- Papal tribute: A theory held by some local people posits that the town was colored yellow to celebrate Pope John Paul II’s visit in the 1990s. Since yellow and white are the Vatican’s official colors, this may seem plausible, but evidence shows the town was yellow prior to this event.
- Tourism: A more practical idea is that the uniform color acts as a lure for tourists. (Hey, it worked on me!) An entire town painted in a single color is bound to pique interest and draw visitors, thereby enhancing local tourism.
While these ideas provide reasonable explanations, the actual reason could be a fusion of historical, spiritual, and practical reasons. Regardless of its origin, the yellow color continues to be a vital element of Izamal’s allure and character.
Why You Should Visit Izamal Mexico, The Yellow City
Izamal, Mexico is a charming and picturesque town that is full of history and culture. Here are a few reasons why you should consider visiting Izamal:
- Escape the crowds: Unlike some of the more well-known destinations in Mexico, Izamal is not overrun with tourists. This means that you can explore the town at your own pace and enjoy a more relaxed and authentic experience.
- Experience the culture: Izamal is known for its rich cultural heritage, which is evident in its architecture, cuisine, and traditions. The town is home to several historic sites, including the Convento de San Antonio de Padua and the Kinich Kak Moo pyramid.
- Enjoy the region: Izamal is the perfect stop on a longer Yucatan itinerary to places like Valladolid, Merida, Progreso, and Rio Lagartos. Whether you want to explore Maya ruins, swim in sparkling cenotes, or enjoy the history and culture of cities, there are plenty of opportunities for this in and around Izamal.
Overall, Izamal is a hidden gem that is well worth a visit for anyone who wants to experience the beauty and culture of Mexico in a more authentic and relaxed setting. So why not add Izamal to your travel itinerary and discover all that this charming town has to offer?
