Located in the northern part of Cozumel, the San Gervasio ruins are the island’s only preserved Mayan site and a must-visit for history enthusiasts. This archaeological complex was dedicated to Ix Chel, the Mayan goddess of fertility, midwifery, and medicine, and served as an important pilgrimage destination for Mayan women. Today, the site offers a fascinating glimpse into the ancient Mayan civilization, with well-preserved structures and a rich history to explore.

For those not quite ready to descend underwater, snorkelling provides a great alternative. A mask and breathing pipe are all the equipment necessary to see fascinating marine life unfold before your eyes as you swim through the dashingly clear waters.

Constructed on the site of a former mosque from the Islamic city, this church dates back to between 1402 and 1417, according to the oldest documented evidence. Featuring a single nave design and side chapels nestled between buttresses, the original Gothic structure has undergone significant modifications due to restorations and extensions carried out between the 16th and 18th centuries. Notable elements within the church include a Renaissance presbyter, shaped like a triumphal arch, and the chapel dedicated to the Holy Family (1765-1766), which showcases the artistic influence of sculptor Francisco Salzillo. The main entrance of the church, adorned with the shield of the Catholic Monarchs at its peak, is in the Isabelline Gothic style. In contrast, the adjoining communion chapel exhibits a more Baroque aesthetic, featuring an entrance constructed between 1726 and 1735.

Built between 1842 and 1870 on the former site of a Franciscan convent, The Stock Exchange Palace, or Palácio da Bolsa, is an impressive building in Neoclassical style, which currently houses the headquarters of the Porto Commercial Association. Classified as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, the Palácio da Bolsa attracts around 200,000 visitors a year, making it the most visited monument in the north of Portugal. Take a guided tour to see up close its magnificently decorated rooms, especially the Arab Room, which features the exotic Moorish Revival architecture. This room also serves as a reception hall for heads of state and personalities visiting the city.