Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula and surrounding regions are dotted with ruins that tell the story of the Maya civilization—from dazzling pyramids to jungle-hidden temples and cloud-covered bastions. Here are seven sites that shouldn’t be missed, including a few iconic names and a couple of hidden gems you might not have heard of yet.
Chichén Itzá
As one of the New Seven Wonders, Chichén Itzá’s El Castillo pyramid is the star attraction—its seasonal serpent-shadow spectacle is legendary. Wander through its vast ceremonial center to discover the Temple of Warriors, the Great Ball Court, the Observatory, and the Sacred Cenote—each spot echoing Maya rituals and astronomical genius .
Tulum
Clinging to a bluff overlooking the Caribbean, Tulum is as photogenic as it gets. This walled coastal city feels intimate and dramatic at once—with turquoise waves crashing below and frescoed temples like El Castillo and the Temple of the Frescoes offering a vibrant glimpse into later Maya architecture.
Coba
Hidden deep in the jungle, Coba lets you climb the Nohoch Mul pyramid—one of the tallest in the Yucatán—for panoramic forest vistas that not many ruins offer. Spread across a vast area connected by ancient sacbé roads, it’s quieter and more adventurous, with bike rentals making exploration easier.
Ek Balam
A favorite among travelers who want to escape the crowds, Ek Balam’s centerpiece is the climbable Acropolis, which features jaguar-mouth carvings and intricate stucco—something you won’t find at sites like Chichén Itzá. It’s smaller but full of personality and offers the chance to swim in the nearby Cenote X’Canche.
Uxmal
Moving to the Puuc architectural style, Uxmal is a masterpiece of ornate stonework and layered facades, most notably the Pyramid of the Magician and the Governor’s Palace. It’s less crowded and often overlooked, but its craftsmanship and restored murals make it a must-see.
Palenque
Tucked into the Chiapas jungle, Palenque is known for its lush, atmospheric setting and structures like the Templo de las Inscripciones, where King Pakal’s tomb lies below. Even though only a fraction of its core has been restored, its detailed sculpture and forest cover give it an almost mythical vibe.
Calakmul
For true explorers, Calakmul is in remote Campeche, deep in dense rainforest—and its twin pyramids rise up like silent sentinels in the canopy. Less visited than many sites, it rewards those who make the effort with solitude and a sense of discovery matched by few others.
Laura Lynch, creator and writer of Savored Journeys, is an avid world traveler, certified wine expert, and international food specialist. She has written about travel and food for over 20 years and has visited over 75 countries. Her work has been published in numerous guidebooks, websites, and magazines.