Campeche, Mexico's Hidden Gem, Named U.S. Level 1 Destination
Campeche, a mid-sized city in Mexico with nearly a million inhabitants, has been making waves in the tourism industry. Recently, the U.S. State Department has recognized Campeche as a Level 1 destination, one of only two cities in Mexico to achieve this status. This comes as no surprise, given the city's remarkable growth in tourism, with a 9.7% increase in visitors year-on-year.
Campeche's Historic Center is a major draw for tourists. Here, visitors can stroll through centuries-old houses, along pedestrian-friendly lanes, and relax in leafy plazas. The area is also home to antique cafes, offering a taste of the city's rich history. Remarkably, Campeche has managed to retain its colonial-era walls, a feat matched only by Quebec City in Canada. The city's historic architecture is so well-preserved that Campeche City boasts one of Mexico's best-preserved 16th-century townscapes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
At the heart of the city lies the Plaza de la Independencia, a testament to Campeche's Spanish colonial past. Flanked by arcaded buildings and local-owned eateries, the plaza is a hub of activity. The Catedral de Nuestra Señora de la Purísima Concepción, with its patterned, black-and-white marble floors and pyramid-shaped main altar, is another must-see attraction.
Campeche's appeal as a tourist destination continues to grow. In 2024, the city welcomed a staggering 1,747,057 visitors, with no signs of slowing down this year. Despite its growing popularity, Campeche remains a safe and welcoming city, often competing with Mérida for the title of safest city in Mexico. As Playa del Carmen, another city on the western side of the Yucatán Peninsula, experiences a 9.7% increase in tourism, Campeche is solidifying its position as Mexico's trendiest tourist destination.
