How to get to Campeche

When planning an itinerary across the Yucatán Peninsula, many travellers wonder how to reach Campeche — a charming colonial walled city on the coast of Mexico, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. You can reach this historic centre via various routes: by taking a domestic flight, boarding a comfortable coach, or hiring a car for a picturesque drive along the bay. Deciding to visit Campeche will open doors to a world of vibrant architecture and rich history, and the journey to the city will be a comfortable start to your adventure.

For those who value time, the optimal choice is a flight to Campeche International Airport (CPE). This compact aviation hub, named after engineer Alberto Acuña Ongay, receives regular flights connecting the region with other parts of the country and is conveniently located relative to the city's attractions.

Alternatively, travellers often consider arriving in neighbouring Mérida, which is approximately 160 kilometres away and offers a broader network of international flights. One can also utilise the airport in Ciudad del Carmen, located 187 kilometres from Campeche; both options allow for easy access to your final destination.

Thanks to the implementation of the massive "Maya Train" (Tren Maya) infrastructure project, rail travel has become one of the most convenient ways to reach the city. This modern route traverses the picturesque regions of the Yucatán Peninsula, connecting historical heritage with the natural beauty of Mexico.

The railway station in Campeche receives trains arriving from key tourist hubs such as Cancún, Mérida, and Palenque. Travellers can choose this mode of transport as a comfortable and fast alternative to buses, enjoying views of tropical forests and a high level of service en route.

Bus services on the Yucatán Peninsula are distinguished by a high level of comfort and regularity, making this mode of transport an excellent choice for tourists. The popular route from neighbouring Mérida covers a distance of 180 kilometres in approximately 3.4 hours. It is also convenient to arrive from the Gulf of Mexico coast: a trip from the city of Ciudad del Carmen (about 206 kilometres) will take around 3.7 hours.

For those planning an international journey and travelling from the south, there are options from Belize, for example, starting from the town of Corozal. Most intercity buses in the region are modern coaches equipped with air conditioning and comfortable seats, so the journey to the sights of Campeche passes almost unnoticed.

Travelling by car is one of the most scenic ways to reach Campeche, allowing you to plan stops independently and enjoy the views of the Yucatán. The most popular and shortest route leads from Mérida: the 178-kilometre distance can be covered in just over 2 hours via a convenient highway. Another popular option for those driving along the Gulf coast is the trip from Ciudad del Carmen, which takes about 3 hours to cover the 206-kilometre path.

For tourists departing from more distant points, such as the Belizean town of Corozal, the journey of nearly 392 kilometres requires about 5.5 hours behind the wheel. Renting a car provides maximum freedom of movement across Mexico, but one can also use intercity taxi services. Although the cost of such a trip will be noticeably higher than a bus ticket, the comfort and speed often justify the expense. The road network in the region is well-developed, making car travel a safe and pleasant experience.

Preparing for your trip to Campeche will help you avoid minor inconveniences and focus entirely on the beauty of the colonial architecture. We have gathered several useful recommendations to make your holiday in this picturesque corner of Mexico as comfortable and safe as possible.

1. Clothing and Essentials: The climate here is hot and humid year-round, so prioritise loose-fitting clothing made from natural fabrics such as cotton or linen, which is also suitable for modest dressing preferences. Be sure to bring comfortable flat shoes, as the historic centre is paved with cobblestones. Do not forget a hat and sunglasses, while a light cardigan may only be useful in venues with strong air conditioning.
2. Transport: The historic city centre is compact and is best explored on foot so as not to miss the details of the ancient facades. For trips outside the fortress walls, local taxis are a convenient and affordable option. Tourist trams (tranvía) also circulate around the city, offering excellent sightseeing tours.
3. Finances: The official currency is the Mexican Peso. Although major hotels and restaurants accept bank cards, always carry cash for visiting small cafes, souvenir shops, and markets. You can exchange currency at banks or exchange bureaus (casas de cambio) in the city centre; the rates there are usually more favourable than at the airport.
4. Health and Safety: Campeche is considered one of the safest cities in the country, where families can walk calmly even in the evening. However, due to the tropical climate, it is worth using mosquito repellent, especially at sunset. Pharmacies are frequently found, but it is better to bring specific medications with you.
5. Communication: The main language is Spanish. In tourist areas, staff often speak English, but proficiency levels may vary. Locals are very friendly and will appreciate it if you learn a few basic phrases in Spanish, or simply download an offline translator on your smartphone.
6. Local Etiquette: Mexicans are very polite, so it is customary to greet people ("Buenos días", "Buenas tardes") when entering a shop or getting into a taxi. Leaving a tip (propina) of 10–15% of the bill in restaurants and cafes is considered a standard of good manners.
7. What to Avoid: It is strictly advised not to drink tap water; purchase only bottled water. Also, try to avoid long walks under the open sun during the siesta period (from 13:00 to 16:00) to prevent heatstroke.
8. Extra Tip: Be sure to set aside an evening for a walk along the waterfront (Malecon). It is a favourite recreational spot for citizens, where you can watch stunning sunsets over the Gulf of Mexico and enjoy the fresh sea breeze after a hot day.

By following these simple tips, you can easily adapt to the local rhythm of life and get the most out of your journey. May your introduction to the fortress city leave only warm and vivid memories!