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| Campeche Travel Guide |
Version Español |
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| Hotels, restaurants, travel services, tourist attractions, videos, maps, climate, etc. |
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| CAMPECHE TOURIST INFORMATION / TOURISM IN CAMPECHE |
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Nowadays Campeche is the proud owner of more than a thousand edifications of immeasurable historic value that have survived as witnesses of the commercial, military and religious purposes that this city had since the 16th century, becoming a link between two worlds: the Old and the New.
CampecheThe very complete fortification system that can still be found around the whole city is an essential example of the astonishing Spanish military architecture of the 17th and 18th centuries, a fundamental part of the integral defensive system that the Spanish troops used in the Caribbean to protect their cities from the constant pirate attacks.
Welcome to CampecheThe more than 300 years that have passed since the construction of the wall and the forts that protect the city, have not left a mark in them, nowadays they are considered to be some of the most important attractions of the city. The seven bastions that surround the Historic Center, eternal stone titans have prevailed unscathed to the passing of time, are now used for several purposes, some have been turned into museums, one of them is now a botanic garden and another one holds a permanent handicraft exposition.
Campeche vacationsThe great mansions of Campeche feature high ceilings and majestic interior arcs that make the rooms fresher. The balconies are decorated with beautiful wrought iron ornaments that delight the sight of the visitors and silently whisper their stories about a past of great economic splendor. Its beautiful cobbled streets go hand to hand with the gorgeous façades of the mansions, creating a wonderful and fascinating Colonial ambience.
CampecheFounded on October 4th, 1540 and being the only port habilitated as an access to dry land, this city was the spot from where the expansion to the interior of the Yucatan peninsula, started. The numerous pirate attacks suffered in this city started in 1559 with French attacks, continuing with those of pirates from England and Holland, due to the conflicts of these European countries against the Spanish Crown, and also to the great wealth that had been found in Yucatan.
Towards the end of the 19th century, Campeche had lost the economic solvency that it once had thanks to its maritime, commercial and farming position. By then it was the henequen haciendas the ones that increased the economy of the state, letting the state recover its economic prosperity. The haciendas featured main houses of great dimensions, barns, warehouses, water wheels and plantation fields. Some of them also featured offices, stores and churches. Nowadays these beautiful haciendas are used for tourist purposes, some of them have been restored and are used as luxurious hotels while some other are used for scheduled tourist visits.
Following the Renascent grid style, the streets of the city where built as a chess board, constructing a plaza in the squares near the sea where parties and ceremonies of the people where supposed to be celebrated, according to the Spanish Crown. The main buildings that gave legality to the powers of the conqueror were set around the plaza: the Cathedral (Nuestra Señora de la Purisima Concepcion parish), the shipyard, the court and the houses of the most important conquerors.
Welcome to CampecheIn the present-day the Historic Center is a fusion of buildings from the 16th to 19th centuries. It has a military, civil and religious architecture, office complexes and dwelling houses from the 20th century, located in areas gained to the sea. The beautiful colors and the lovely architecture make of the Historic Center one of the most interesting Campeche sightseeing places.
In the areas surrounding Campeche, several archeological zones with beautiful Maya constructions can be found. During your Campeche vacations we strongly recommend you to visit these interesting places and take a stroll among its huge constructions with gorgeous masks and patterns used as decorations in honor to the gods. In places like Edzna, city that was the regional capital during the years 400 and 1000 of our era, you can find a very advanced architecture and very important achievements in engineering, since it features conduits and dams that were used by the inhabitants to gather and distribute water.
The Petenes are islets found among mangroves, they have medium forest vegetation an extension of 130 thousand hectares; they are a great part of Campeche's seaboard. These ecosystems survive thanks to the fresh water of the surface and the salty water of the bottom of the springs. The Petenes are a refuge to a great variety of wild and aquatic animals, and they are a part of the Natural Reserve of the state.
Near the city you will find endless activities to embark into and lots of places to visit, to top everything up, this state's gastronomy is delicious and its people is kind and warm. Thanks to all of this, your Campeche vacations will turn into an unforgettable adventure you can share with your family or friends. Don't hesitate and come visit us!
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- HOTELS
- ATTRACTIONS
- RESTAURANTS
- NIGHTLIFE
- SHOPPING
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Hotel Plaza Campeche 
Address: Calle 10 s/n, esq Circuito Baluartes, Campeche
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Hotel Del Paseo Campeche 
Address: Calle 8 #215, Entre Circuito Baluartes y Callejón D, Campeche
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Hotel Francis Drake Campeche
Address: Calle 12 #207 Colonia Centro, Campeche
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Hotel Casa Don Gustavo Campeche
Address: Calle 59 #4, Centro histórico, Campeche
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Hotel Holiday Inn Campeche
Address: Av Resurgimiento #127, Col Prado, Campeche
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Hotel Plaza Colonial Campeche
Address: Calle 10 #15 Col Centro, Campeche
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Hotel Castelmar Campche
Address: Calle 61 #2-A entre 8 y 10, Col Centro, Campeche
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Hotel Ocean View Campeche
Address: Av Pedro Sainz de Baranda con Joaquin, Clausell, Malecón, Campeche
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Hotel Hacienda Uayamon Campeche
Address: Carr Uayamon-China-Edzna km 20, Campeche
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Hotel América Centro Campeche
Address: Calle 10 #252, Col Centro, Campeche
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Hotel Hacienda Puerta Campeche
Address: Calle 59 71, entre 16 y 18, Campeche
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Best Western Hotel Del Mar Campeche
Address: Av Ruiz Cortines #51, Centro, Campeche
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Hotel Chicanná Ecovillage Resort Campeche
Address: Carretera Escárcega-Chetumal km 144 S/N, Campeche
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Hotel Baluartes Campeche
Address: Av 16 de Septiembre #128, Campeche
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| TOURIST ATTRACTIONS IN CAMPECHE / PLACES TO VISIT IN CAMPECHE |
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San Fernando's Garrison
This historic colossus has been adapted to modernity; it has a musical interactive fountain that allows unifying the height of the different torrents of water. The design of the fountain evokes the concept of military architecture of the city. This park is complemented by the placement of 21 staffs with their respective flags in red and blue tones, these colors are the ones in Campeche's coat of arms.
Casa 6 (House 6)
Beautiful construction with architecture from the 17th century, it has been restored to represent the lifestyle of the people of Campeche in the 19th century. This place features a restaurant area and a bookstore and it works as an information module. Here you will find several weekly activities for all kinds of public.
Campeche Cathedral
One of the most beautiful Campeche attractions is its cathedral, located on the side of the Main Square in the Historic Center. In the beginning it was conceived as a small church with a thatched roof when Francisco de Montejo junior ordered its construction in 1540. Later on, in 1760 the chapel and the sea-side tower were built. Between the years 1849 and 1850 the land-side tower was built and finally in 1916 the luminous 4-face clock that is used until today was installed.
Edzna
This site was occupied from 600 B.C. to 900 - 1000 A.D. The first groups that settled in the area were drawn to the fresh water ponds that they found in the valley. This helped promote the rapid evolution of this city, which achieved its splendor from 500 - 900 A.D. It was a city that occupied about 25 square kilometers and to this day, there are a little over 200 structures, including stylobates, platforms, buildings and living quarters. Of these, the constructions around the Gran Plaza (the Great Plaza), the Plataforma de los Cuchillos (the Platform of Knives), the Casa Grande (the Great House) and the ball court, among other structures, have been excavated.
The Gran Acropolis is probably the most representative edifice of this site and is a great elevated rectangular platform upon which was constructed 11 or 12 structures. The general style of the compound is a clear influence of Peten in Guatemala. In Edzna, important information was uncovered relating to the hydraulic systems that irrigated the valley.
San Jose el Alto and San Miguel's Fort
On the hills that nestle the city of Campeche, San Miguel's fort and San Jose el Alto fort can still be appreciated in their entire splendor. San Jose el Alto fort has been turned into a complete and beautiful museum of colonial weapons and scale boats. From here you can enjoy an unsurpassable view of the city, appreciate its architecture and let your imagination transport you to old times when this place played an important roll in the defense of the inhabitants of the city.
San Miguel's fort still has its moat, its lifting bridge, towers and cannons. From here you will have an impressive view to the ocean, inviting you to want to get soaked with the history of the city, the history of the heroes that fought against the pirates in their constant attempts to invade Campeche and take over its wealth. San Miguel's fort keeps an important exposition of pre-Hispanic pieces, among the most important you will find jade masks that where found in the archeological zone of Calakmul.
Hacienda Tankuche
This is a french-style ex-hacienda that simulates a medieval fortification. Its central patio is ample; to the west you will find the main house, to the south, the machine room. In the left posterior side there is a semi-destroyed tower that once was used as a viewpoint. Nowadays, this old henequen production center is almost in ruins, but it is considered one of the most interesting Campeche attractions.
The Boardwalk
It features gorgeous viewpoints where some recreation areas have been constructed for families to enjoy the marine breeze and Campeche's sunsets. The boardwalk is constituted by 2 fast lanes and a slow lane, 3 pedestrian walkways a central 6-yard boulevard, a cycling lane and a walking lane, from beginning to end.
El Tranvia
If you are visiting Campeche, we recommend using the fun yet innovative means of transport that will allow you to learn more about the culture and history of this enchanting city. Named Cultural Heritage of Humanity by the UNESCO, Campeche's main sights, historical monuments, picturesque neighborhoods, the pier and other sites of interest are part of this tram's route. Don't miss your chance to learn more about this fabulous walled city.
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| RESTAURANTS IN CAMPECHE / PLACES TO EAT IN CAMPECHE |
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Campeche
This restaurant is located right in front of the Historic Center. Its traditional atmosphere and the varied menu make it the perfect place to dine. Come and enjoy a friendly and warm service.
Casa Vieja de los Arcos
This is one of the oldest restaurants in the city, housed in a building with colonial arches. It offers excellent Mexican cuisine and has a wonderful view of the cathedral and plaza. The decor pays tribute to its name, using antiques and Mexican handicrafts. At night, the illumination is dim so you can really appreciate the cathedral in all its illuminated glory.
Chac-Pel
Chac-Pel has experience in dealing with fresh seafood, offering a menu that is as exquisite as it is varied. To add to this is the typical service and attention of the locals. It is, without a doubt, an excellent place to start enjoying Campeche, its cuisine and its people.
Marganzo
The best fish and seafood dishes are found in Marganzo Restaurant. Come and enjoy our excellent service, relaxing and casual ambience as well as an extensive menu full of sea specialties. Our carefully cooked dishes will enchant your senses and will invite you to visit us over and over. Marganzo opens every day from early in the morning allowing you to take delight in our savory breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Mediterraneo
Looking for a casual place to spend a fun evening with your friends while listening to the best music? If so, Mediterraneo is your best choice. Mediterraneo is located on the promenade, giving you a gorgeous view of the ocean you can enjoy while dining.
La Parroquia
Campeche restaurants offer several exquisite smells to delight your senses in a unique way; La Parroquia is not an exception. You will find the most delightful and traditional cuisine that includes meats, pork in the tomato style, fish dumplings and tamales. Come and enjoy our specialties as well as our famous appetizers typical from Campeche. You will feel welcome thanks to our warm and kind treat. La Parroquia is waiting for you any day of the week and 24 hours a day.
La Pigua
La Pigua is definitely an advisable choice for dining in Campeche. At this place you can enjoy a very pleasant ambiance and a high quality service as you taste a great variety of seafood and fish as well as specialties such as: crab pincers, shrimps in the coconut style, pan de cazon, different types of cocktails and many other tasty regional dishes.
Besides, the restaurant features a small museum that serves as a private area for up to 12 people, where you can take delight in an exquisite dinner at a very exclusive atmosphere. Previous reservation required. |
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| NIGHTLIFE IN CAMPECHE / BARS & CLUBS |
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Iguana Azul
Come and enjoy a great ambience of endless party, dance 'til dawn to the rhythm of the hits of the moment and spend an unforgettable night with your friends. Find here a wide selection of drinks and snacks in a very nice and casual place. Iguana Azul awaits you with the best hits and an excellent service.
Laffite's
At Hotel del Mar you will find a disco that will keep you awake 'till the wee hours of the morning with the best hits of the moment, a wide selection of drinks and a great service, all the necessary ingredients to make your night nice and fun. Come to meet us! Laffite's is one of the best Campeche nightclubs.
Mediterraneo Bar
This bar is located right in front of the promenade. Its open air setting, the variety of drinks and the excellent music selection, make it the best choice to spend a nice evening with your friends. Mediterraneo Bar offers a great service and a casual ambience.
Rouge
This enormous nightclub is one of the most frequented in Campeche, where you can find excellent music and an interesting ambiance. Enjoy your favorite drinks at either of the two bars. Rouge is definitely a fantastic option for socializing as well as good times in Campeche.
Sole
This place opens as soon as the sun goes down. Here you can spend a relaxed evening listening to good music, drinking your favorite cocktails and admiring the beauty of the ocean right across the street.
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| SHOPPING IN CAMPECHE / WHERE TO BUY IN CAMPECHE |
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Traditional Pottery
Perhaps one of the most remarkable legacies inherited by the Campeche people from their Mayan ancestors is the delicate art of turning clay into fascinating figures that are beautiful to the sight. Generation over generation the secrets of the magic needed to mold the clay have been passed on and kept by these people. To develop this handcrafts an ancient Mayan wheel is used, it is formed by a chunk of secular wood that is turned by the artisans with their feet, while they mold gorgeous ornamental and practical objects with their hands.
Textiles
Campeche knitters slowly create detailed figures over the fabric, making exact replicas of nature itself in every stitch and with every new combination of colors. Campeche knitters put their very lives and souls in every new creation, choosing elements from the flora and fauna to help them capture their ideas in a very precise way and place them on the fabric. To behold the creation of these textiles is to become a witness of an art that has been preserved through centuries of tradition.
Bone Carving
Campeche artisans use this material to create gorgeous figures carved with great sensibility and skillfulness. When you decide to do some Campeche shopping, you should not forget to ask for this kind of handcrafts, since they would be a lovely souvenir to take home with you.
Natural Fiber
The fabulous jipi palm hats are made inside natural caverns or even inside caverns that have been dig exclusively for the purpose of this activity. The humidity and temperature of the interior of these caverns facilitate the management of the fiber, giving the artisans the chance to use all of their manual skillfulness in the creation of these gorgeous pieces.
Woodworks
The hands of the people from Campeche do magic with wood, from a simple piece they can create a fabulous work of art, furthermore when the artisan combines it with other materials such as knit cloth or woven jipi palm, blending in one piece, the magnificence of nature and the genius of the Campeche artisan.
Tukulna
Campeche Shops At Campeche's Historic Center you will find the Handcraft House Tukulna (House of the Thought), a gorgeous building that was restored in 1993. Traditional handcrafts of the state that hold a great cultural and traditional value are showed here, these pieces compel respect and appreciation.
Tepakan pottery, hammock weaving, jipi palm hats and some other jipi palm articles, are just some of the examples of the many things you will find when you visit Campeche. This is without a doubt, one of the most recommendable to go Campeche shopping, since you will find here all sorts of handicrafts and typical products of the region.
Handcrafts Bazaar
If you like handcrafts, this is the perfect place to spend a whole evening shopping! At the Bazaar you will find from cute, small earrings made from coconut shell and bracelets made from different kinds of seeds, to the most complex figures carved in bone or wood. Lamps, clothes, picture frames and many other things you can take home with you as souvenirs of your trip to this beautiful city.
Plaza Girasol
Plaza Girasol is a small shopping and dining center. It is an excellent choice for those who want to get a closer look to the lifestyle of the inhabitants of the beautiful city of Campeche. |
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