Weather in Izamal

Izamal's entire historic centre is painted a striking ochre-yellow, earning it the nickname 'Ciudad Amarilla' and a place among Mexico's official Pueblos Mágicos. Built atop and around ancient Maya pyramids, the town's colonial convent sits directly on a former temple platform, and horse-drawn carriages still clatter through its quiet, colourful streets.

Best areas to stay in Izamal

Convento de San Antonio de Padua

The town's monumental yellow convent, built atop a Maya pyramid platform with a vast atrium.

Kinich Kak Moo

A large Maya pyramid within the town, climbable for views over Izamal's yellow rooftops.

Central Plaza

The yellow-painted heart of town, surrounded by shops, eateries and the convent.

Centro Cultural y Artesanal

A craft centre showcasing Yucatecan textiles, hammocks and traditional crafts.

Getting to Izamal

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Flights

Fly into Mérida (MID), then drive or take a bus about 1 hour to Izamal.

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From London

~13-15 hours from London via Mexico City or a US hub, plus the onward drive.

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Getting around

The town centre is compact and walkable; horse-drawn carriages are a popular way to get around.

Frequently asked questions

Why is Izamal painted yellow?

The tradition dates back to preparations for a papal visit in the 1990s, and the colour has since become the town's defining feature and a point of local pride.

What Maya ruins are in Izamal?

Several pyramid mounds remain within the town itself, including Kinich Kak Moo, one of the largest pyramid bases in the Yucatan, climbable for views over the rooftops.

How do I get to Izamal?

It's about an hour's drive from Mérida, making it a popular half-day or day trip from the Yucatan's capital.

What is the Convento de San Antonio de Padua?

A 16th-century Franciscan convent built on top of a Maya pyramid platform, with one of the largest atriums in Mexico.

Is Izamal worth an overnight stay?

A day visit covers the main sights, but an overnight stay lets you experience the town's quiet evening atmosphere and a horse-drawn carriage ride at sunset.

Traveler reviews

★★★★★

Every street really is painted yellow, it's striking and photogenic everywhere you look. Climbing Kinich Kak Moo for the view over the town was a highlight.

Marisol T. · February 2024

★★★★☆

Easy day trip from Mérida. The convent's huge atrium was impressive and the town felt calm and welcoming, much less touristy than the coast.

Owen R. · December 2023

★★★★★

Took a horse-drawn carriage ride at sunset which was a lovely way to see the yellow streets glow in the evening light.

Lucia V. · January 2024