In Valladolid you get a compact colonial town that works well as a low-key base for visiting Chichén Itzá and the many nearby cenotes. The centro is easily walkable, with Cenote Zací a few blocks in and regular colectivos to archaeological sites and nearby villages. Carry pesos and small bills since mercados, some taxis and smaller vendors often do not take cards, and aim for an early visit to Chichén Itzá to beat the heat and crowds. Wear sturdy shoes for cobblestones, bring sunscreen and insect repellent, try local Yucatecan dishes like cochinita pibil at the market, and keep valuables secured at night because petty theft can occur even in this otherwise tourist-friendly town.