As far as colonial cities in Mexico go, Campeche must be one of the more beautiful ones. Buildings of saturated pastel hues line the streets that appear to be cleaned regularly. The city is surrounded by a fortress wall that was constructed to protect against pirate attacks. This is why you’ll see many businesses have pirate-themed decor. What else is that the pirate novelties are actually quite tasteful, another testament to the impressive architecture and general aesthetics of Campeche. (Click here for photos)

But it can’t all be sunshine and lollipops for this city. In the city center, where the hostels and hotels are located, there is nary a restaurant to be found, and those you do see are either over-priced or not enticing, or (more likely) both. Campeche is located right on the gulf and there are markets with fresh seafood to be had, but finding a hostel with a suitable kitchen (more than hot plates) was another challenge.

(NOTE: Our coverage of Campeche is not very extensive being that we didn’t find it an easy town to get by tramping in. Restaurants were unimpressive and hostels we found lacked the kitchens to make up for this. But there is a good market here with lots of food carts surrounding it, as well as many hotels.)

GETTING // GOING

Merida – Campeche

Campeche – Sabancuy

SLEEPING

Monkey Hostel

Parroquia Hostel

EATING

As stated above, finding a decent meal is tricky. Your best bet is to head toward the market and get some antojitos at a food cart.

OUR STORY