The attractive walled city of Campeche is ablaze with immaculately kept pastel-coloured houses; the city is one of Mexico's colonial gems, the narrow streets full of elegant 18th and 19th century houses giving it a distinctly European feel.

The heavily fortressed defensive walls of World Heritage Campeche protect a port town full of treasures and nothing beats time wandering Campeche's old streets and seafront.

The city's Baroque cathedral was founded in 1540 and is one of the oldest on the peninsula, and - along with the impressive archeological museum at Fuerte de las Estalas - is the main highlight.

Immerse yourself in the Mayan culture and customs of the area, sample local specialties bursting with sweet, savoury and spicy flavours and try the region's plentiful seafood, such as shrimp and ceviche.