Palenque is located in the state of Chiapas in Mexico. The small city of Palenque is a gem in the Maya Low Lands.
The archaelogical site and waterfalls in Palenque have made this an increasingly popular destination for travelers, but it’s still off any mainstream map!
Palenque city often acts as a base for travelers to explore this lesser-known area of Mexico. In Palenque, you’ll find lots of restaurants and bars as well as hotels to choose from. There is also a large bus station here, making it easily accessible for those traveling around by bus. There is also a small airport on the outskirts of Palenque.
While Palenque is somewhat touristic, it still has managed to keep much of its original Mexican charm. When we last visited, I really enjoyed the many authentic (and cheap!) taco restaurants. The area of the city near the river is much more touristy than the areas near the main highway, and you should try to explore both areas on your visit. Palenque is pretty small, so it is pretty easy to wander around on foot.
The Maya ruins called “Palenque” are not to be confused with the modern city of Palenque. The city of Palenque is actually located about a 15-minute drive from the Palenque Ruins. Most people base themselves in the city and visit the ruins on a day trip.
