
San Francisco de Campeche: A Colonial Treasure on the Coast of Mexico
San Francisco de Campeche, commonly known as Campeche, is a city located on the Yucatan Peninsula, in southeastern Mexico. It is the capital of the state of Campeche and is famous for its well-preserved historic center, which has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
Historic Center of Campeche
The historic center of Campeche is a must-visit for any tourist. Here, the cobblestone streets, pastel-colored houses, and colonial churches create a charming atmosphere. The walls surrounding the historic center are a reminder of the time when Campeche was an important port and was constantly under the threat of pirates. Today, you can walk along these walls and visit the bastions that were used to defend the city.
Fortresses and Museums
Campeche has two impressive fortresses: the Fort of San Miguel and the Fort of San José. Both fortresses house museums that offer a fascinating insight into the city's history. The Museum of Mayan Architecture, located in the Fort of San Miguel, has an impressive collection of Mayan artifacts, while the City Museum, in the Fort of San José, focuses on the history of Campeche.
The Gastronomy of Campeche
The gastronomy of Campeche is another of the city's attractions. Seafood is a main ingredient in many dishes, including the famous pan de cazón, a shark lasagna that is a local specialty. Other dishes you should try are the enchipotlados shrimps and the a la talla fish.
The Surroundings of Campeche
The surroundings of Campeche also have a lot to offer. A short distance from the city, you can visit the Mayan ruins of Edzná, which feature an impressive five-level pyramid. You can also explore the Calakmul Biosphere Reserve, where you can see a wide variety of wildlife and visit the ruins of an ancient Mayan city.
The Nightlife in Campeche
The nightlife in Campeche is quiet but enjoyable. You can enjoy a dinner at one of the many restaurants in the historic center, have a drink at a bar overlooking the sea, or simply stroll through the illuminated streets and enjoy the atmosphere.
In summary, San Francisco de Campeche is a destination that combines history, culture, gastronomy, and natural beauty. Whether you're interested in colonial architecture, Mayan history, delicious food, or simply relaxing in a beautiful place, Campeche has something for you.
Gastronomic Products of San Francisco de Campeche
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Shark Bread
Shark bread is one of the most representative dishes of Campeche. This dish is prepared with corn tortillas, shredded shark (a type of small shark), tomato sauce, and black beans. It is served in layers, similar to lasagna, and is accompanied with avocado and habanero sauce.
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Cochinita Pibil
Although it is a dish originating from Yucatan, cochinita pibil is very popular in Campeche. It consists of pork marinated in achiote and sour orange juice, wrapped in banana leaves and cooked in an earth oven. It is served shredded and is accompanied with pickled red onion.
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Seafood
Given its coastal location, Campeche offers a wide variety of fresh seafood. The most popular are shrimp, octopus, and snappers, which can be enjoyed in ceviches, soups, tacos, and other dishes. The seafood is caught daily and served fresh, guaranteeing its quality and flavor.
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Traditional Sweets
Campeche is famous for its traditional sweets, such as cocoyoles in syrup, marquesitas, and papaya sweets. These sweets are a delight for the palate and a sample of the rich culinary tradition of the region.
Highlighted Gastronomic Places of San Francisco de Campeche
San Francisco de Campeche, with its rich history and culture, offers a wide variety of places to enjoy its delicious cuisine. Below, we present some of the most outstanding:
La Pigua Restaurant
Known for its excellent Campeche cuisine, La Pigua Restaurant is a must-see in Campeche. Here you can taste traditional dishes such as coconut shrimp, octopus in its ink, and the famous fish a la talla. The pleasant atmosphere and friendly service make this place a perfect option to enjoy an unforgettable meal.
Chocol'Ha
If you are looking for a place with charm and good prices, Chocol'Ha is an excellent option. This cozy establishment offers a wide variety of chocolates and typical sweets from the region, such as chocolate with chili and papaya candy. In addition, its extensive coffee menu will allow you to pair your favorite sweets with the best selection of Mexican coffees.
La Parroquia de Campeche
La Parroquia de Campeche is a restaurant with a great tradition in the city. It offers a wide variety of typical dishes from the region, such as panuchos, tamales, and zarandeado fish. Its family atmosphere and excellent service make this place an ideal option to enjoy authentic Campeche cuisine.
Los Delfines Seafood Restaurant
Los Delfines Seafood Restaurant is an ideal place for seafood lovers. Here you can enjoy a wide variety of dishes made with the freshest seafood, such as garlic shrimp, grilled lobster, and fish ceviche. Its relaxed atmosphere and excellent location facing the sea make this place a perfect option for a special meal or dinner.
Sporting Activities in San Francisco de Campeche
Diving
Campeche has a large number of coral reefs and shipwrecks that you can explore. The most popular diving sites include the Alacranes National Marine Park and Jaina Island.


Sumérgete en la tecnología con el Cressi Leonardo, un Ordenador de Buceo intuitivo y elegante, perfecto para buceadores de cualquier nivel. Diseñado para la máxima simplicidad y eficiencia, este ordenador en blanco y negro ofrece funciones esenciales en una pantalla clara y de fácil lectura, asegurando que tu atención se mantenga en la belleza del mundo submarino. No solo es una herramienta, sino tu compañero de confianza bajo el agua. Adquiere el Cressi Leonardo hoy y eleva tu experiencia de buceo a nuevas profundidades.
Sport Fishing
Sport fishing is a very popular activity in Campeche, especially tarpon fishing. Tourists can rent a boat and fishing gear to enjoy a day at sea.


Domina las aguas con el Hilo Trenzado de multifilamentos para Seaknight Pesca en mar. Este hilo ofrece una resistencia excepcional de 15 a 100LB, garantizando durabilidad y sensibilidad superiores. Su trenzado de alta calidad asegura una fuerza incomparable y resistencia a la abrasión. Prepara tu equipo para emocionantes aventuras en el mar y confía en este hilo para enfrentarte a cualquier desafío. ¡Hazlo tuyo y pesca con total confianza!
Cycling
Campeche has several cycling routes that will allow you to explore the city and its surroundings. You can rent a bicycle and tour the walled city, the forts, and the beaches.


Ilumina tu camino y asegura tu visibilidad con las CIRYCASE Luces Bicicleta Delantera y Trasera, el complemento esencial para cualquier ciclista nocturno o aventurero de acampada. Con una potencia súper brillante, recargables por USB y una resistencia al agua de grado IPX6, estas luces te garantizan seguridad y durabilidad en cualquier condición. Equipadas con 8+12 modos de iluminación para adaptarse a tus necesidades y una batería de larga duración, son perfectas para mantener tus viajes bien iluminados. No dejes que la oscuridad limite tu pasión por montar; adquiere tu set de luces CIRYCASE hoy y continúa explorando sin fronteras.
Kayaking
The mangroves and rivers of Campeche offer excellent opportunities for kayaking. You can rent a kayak and explore the Los Petenes Biosphere Reserve or the Ría Celestún Natural Park.


Infla y desinfla tus equipos de recreación y camping con facilidad usando la Bomba de Aire Eléctrica Portátil ZStarlite. Esta bomba versátil es perfecta para colchones inflables, piscinas, barcos y juguetes hinchables, asegurando que estés siempre listo para la diversión sin el esfuerzo manual. Compatible tanto con 240V AC como con 12V DC, la ZStarlite se adapta a tus necesidades en casa o en movimiento. Viene equipada con 3 accesorios para diferentes válvulas, garantizando un ajuste perfecto y una eficiencia máxima. No dejes que la tarea de inflar disminuya tu ánimo aventurero; lleva contigo la bomba ZStarlite y disfruta del aire libre sin límites.
Hiking
Campeche has several trails that will take you through the jungle and to Mayan archaeological sites. You can take a hike in the Calakmul Natural Park or in the Ría Celestún Biosphere Reserve.


Enfréntate al clima sin miedo con los DAFENP Pantalones Trekking Impermeables y Térmicos, tu escudo contra los elementos en cada aventura. Diseñados para mantenerte seco y cálido, estos pantalones te permiten seguir explorando incluso en condiciones adversas. No dejes que el tiempo te detenga; equípate con DAFENP y transforma cada salida en una conquista confortable y segura.
Places near San Francisco de Campeche
If you're in San Francisco de Campeche and wish to explore a bit more, here we present some nearby cities and towns that offer unique tourist and gastronomic experiences: