The state of Campeche is the part of the Yucatán Peninsula bordering on the Gulf of Mexico. It’s also the name of one of the municipalities in the region and the capital city of the same region, which does make it a bit confusing.
Campeche is less well-known than the part of the Yucatán Peninsula in the state of Quintana Roo, but it does have some spectacular Mayan ruins, a beautiful colonial capital city, and pretty landscape of relatively flat woods and cenote-dotted tropical rainforest. It also has some rather lovely beaches and the huge draw of being less-visited, yet extremely welcoming.
Campeche city is where you’ll find most of the best places to stay in Campeche. A beautifully preserved pastel fairyland of a colonial old town, this state capital is so well restored that it feels almost like a living museum. Even the traditional market and fishing docks remain. Alongside the graceful mansions built by Spanish inhabitants in the 18th and 19th centuries there are two forts and a very impressive architectural museum.
Campeche’s ruins include the collection of Ruta Río Bec, which are several Maya towns and cities all laid out around each other. This is a really interesting site as it shows how closely some of these centres were located - even in a remote region of the jungle. While the group at Ruta Río Bec are not well restored at the moment, the Edzná ruins, which are about an hour out of Campeche city, have been beautifully restored. Calakmul has impressively tall structures, and you’re just across the state border from Uxmal in Yucatán.
With less hotel options than its more touristy neighbours the best places to stay in Campeche can often get booked up in advance so we advise you plan well ahead.
If you'd prefer the privacy of a self-catering option then browse through the wide variety available online with our partner, Booking.com.
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Campeche
An 18th-century colonial mansion set on a pretty cobbled street in the heart of historic Campeche. The ten suites have been lovingly restored yet still keep their original charm; filled with antiques and decorated in warm hues. Meals take place in the elegant courtyard and the garden houses a pool.
Campeche (Uayamon-China-Edzna, Uayamon)
A glorious combination of mustard yellow ruins and chic contemporary design all set in utterly tranquil surrounds. Traditional rooms are colonial in style with high beamed ceilings, black and white tiled floors, four-posters and whirring fans. A superb spa and atmospheric restaurant. Bliss.
Campeche
This luxury hotel consists of a series of restored 17th-century haciendas in downtown Campeche, Mexico. Entering through heavy wooden double doors, discover original chequered tiles on the tropical terrace. High ceilings and exposed beams make for elegant guestrooms, completing the Old World charm.
