cancun week trip

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7 Day Cancun Itinerary (The Best Things to Do in Cancun)

Are you planning a Cancun trip? Need a little help putting together a Cancun itinerary?

Whether you have one week in Cancun or just a weekend in Cancun, this Cancun Mexico itinerary is for you!

We recently went to Cancun and had a blast. There are so many fun things to do in Cancun! I’m excited to share with you a lot of options so you can plan the perfect Cancun travel itinerary! 

How many days in Cancun do you want to spend? This is the first question you will want to ask yourself! In this Cancun trip guide, I list the best resources, so you can plan a 3,4,5 or 7-day Cancun itinerary. 

Looking forward to Cancun water activities? Maybe more of a jungle adventure tour? Or maybe you just want to relax at a resort pool.  No matter what your preference is, this Cancun itinerary will be adaptable for you.

In this post, we will help you plan a trip to Cancun.  I have put together a 7-day Cancun itinerary.  It will include all the major things to do in Cancun for adults as well as Cancun family activities. We will also add a few day trips from Cancun.

Don’t worry if you are not spending one week in Cancun you can form a 3, 4, or 5-day Cancun itinerary based on what interests you most in this 7-day Cancun itinerary.

Let’s get started with a perfect Cancun itinerary for your Cancun trip. 

If you want to save this information for later be sure to Pin this to Pinterest.  

This post may contain affiliate links that will give me a commission at no additional charge to you. 

Where is Cancun Mexico + Map of Activities

Cancun Mexico is located on the Yucatan Peninsula right near the Caribbean Sea.  This map lists every Cancun activity in this post! You can see there are quite a few fun day trips from Cancun. 

Getting to Cancun

You will most likely arrive in Cancun at the Cancun International Airport.  If you have never been to Mexico it may be a bit overwhelming.  There are people everywhere trying to sell you timeshares.  (your best bet is to ignore them.)

Transportation to the Cancun Hotel Zone

There are a few options of transportation once you arrive in Cancun.  You can take a shuttle , rent a car , or opt for public transportation.  

We rented a car, our experience wasn’t wonderful. However, it is nice to have the freedom to be able to drive where you want to go, when you want to go.  I highly recommend reading my “ Should I rent a car in Mexico ” post so you can make a good decision.  

Take a Shuttle

Many of the hotels in the Cancun Hotel Zone offer a shuttle service. These typically cost between $24 to over $100 round trip depending on which hotel you stay at.  

Private Transportation Services

There are many companies that offer private shuttle services .  If you are going to use a shuttle service I would book ahead of time.  

Cancun Hotel Zone

The best place to book your accommodations is in the Cancun Hotel Zone  There are so many amazing resorts located along this area.  The beach is kept in impeccable shape.  The water is amazingly blue.  It is a gorgeous area.  

There are also many restaurants, shopping areas, clubs, and entertainment options all located in this area.  You really do not have to leave this area to have fun. 

Honestly, it is a lot safer to stay in this area because the police patrol it and want to keep it safe for tourists.  This is great advice when planning a trip to Cancun.

Hotel Brand Recommendations

• Marriott Hotels
• Moon Palace

I am just giving you brand names because each brand has several hotels located in this area.  Some are family-friendly while others are adults-only hotels. There are also all-inclusive options for most hotels.   

Okay, now that the basics are out of the way let’s start planning our 7-day Cancun itinerary! Remember if you are limited on time you can easily create a 4-day Cancun itinerary or any amount of time you have available. 

1. Day 1 Resort and Beach Day

Day 1 of your Cancun trip itinerary starts with checking in at your hotel.  Most resorts in Cancun offer amazing amenities.  Almost, every hotel has beachfront property as well.  Spend some time getting acquainted with the hotel.

Day 1 Cancun Itinerary Agenda

• Relax at the hotel pool
• Do one Cancun water activity (if you have time)

Relax at the Pool

One of the best things about Cancun is that it is a vacation where you can relax.  For day 1 of your Cancun itinerary, I suggest getting to know your hotel and what it has to offer. 

We stayed at the JW Marriott .   It was amazing and offered a lot of perks.  The pools were amazing! 

Depending on what time of day you arrive at you may have time to enjoy a short excursion. If you want to do something extreme you could do one of the following:

If those Cancun water activities are too extreme you could opt for parasailing or catamaran ride on the ocean as well.   

2. Day 2 - Cancun Itinerary - Ancient Ruins Chichen Itza

An adventure to Chichen Itza is a great day trip from Cancun and is on the schedule for day 2. It is a great option for your itinerary for Cancun Mexico 

Day 2 Cancun Itinerary Agenda

• Chichen Itza

Ready to get up early?  Today is the day to visit the ancient Mayan ruins of Chicken Itza. There are two options: booking a tour with transportation or if you rent a car, driving to Chichen Itza.

Getting There

Chichen Itza is a day trip from Cancun.  It takes 2 and a half hours to get there.  You will want to spend 3-4 hours exploring the site. This will still give you time to explore more around this area and get back to Cancun.  

Adults $571 MXN (around US $28 based on current exchange rates)

Child $85 MXN (around US $4.24 based on current exchange rates)

Chichen Itza Hours

9:30 am – 5:00 pm  

Word of Advice

When you arrive there are a lot of people begging to give tours (I didn’t know which people were official workers) ….this made me highly uncomfortable.  If I could go back in time I would have booked my tour ahead of time.  

What Else Should I Explore in this Area? 

• Valladolid 
• Cenote Maya

There are many cenotes in this area.  Many of the tours to Chichen Itza will include a cenote stop.  Some will also include a stop in the colonial city of Valladolid.  This is a great place to grab dinner. 

3. Day 3 - Cancun Itinerary - Xcaret

Day 3 of your Cancun itinerary is an amusement park day. You could create an itinerary for Cancun and only do Xcaret parks every day of your stay.  There are so many! 

Day 3 Cancun Itinerary Agenda

Xcaret is a fun place to visit! It is the premier entertainment park in Mexico.  There are actually a lot of Xcaret locations and activities. You can choose a combination ticket or just one park.  

• Xcaret Park – (Underwater Caves and a Cultural Show)

We went to Xcaret Park on our last visit to Cancun and it was really fun.  I loved the cultural experience.  I highly recommend going to at least one of the Xcaret parks.  

Each park has a different admission price.  The cheapest park is Xsenses and the most expensive park is Xplor

I think you need more than 3 days in Cancun, but if you only have enough time to plan a 3-day Cancun itinerary these are great options. 

4. Day 4 Cancun Itinerary - Isla Mujeres

Day 4 is all about enjoying the Cancun water activities, relaxing, and exploring the ocean. If you have one week in Cancun, I would add a day exploring Isla Mujeres. 

Day 4 Cancun Itinerary Agenda

After two really busy days exploring, let’s relax and take a laid-back trip to the Isla Mujeres.  You can take a ferry there or book a catamaran tour .   Once you are there you can:

• Visit Graffon Natural Reef Park

You probably want to dedicate an entire day to the Isla Mujeres.   

If you wish to plan a 4-day Cancun itinerary this is a good stopping point. Isla Mujeres is relaxing and a great way to end your trip. 

If you have more time to play, let’s keep planning a trip to Cancun and complete this itinerary for Cancun. 

5. Day 5 Cancun Itinerary 5 Days - Resort and Beach Day

In a 7-day Cancun itinerary, I think there needs to be a day of rest and recovery. Day 5 is all about rejuvenation.

Day 5 Cancun Itinerary Agenda

• Morning Yoga
• Spa Treatment

Rest Rest Rest!!!  This Cancun itinerary has been packed with fun so far.  Take a day to relax and recover.  Enjoy the hotel pool and relax on the beach. 

Tired of Relaxing?

If you are antsy you can book a tour to see the underwater museum.  (But don’t worry if you just want to relax, just relax) 

• Underwater museum (3 hours)

If you only have 5 days in Cancun, your Cancun itinerary will be complete.  If you are planning the entire one week in Cancun experience let’s keep going and plan out your 7-day Cancun itinerary.

If you are planning 5 days in Cancun, you may want to spend your last day exploring some of the options we have listed or Day 6. 

6. Day 6 Cancun Mexico Itinerary - Day Trip From Cancun

Day 6 is another exploring day.  Get out and see the Yucatan! 

Day 6 Cancun Itinerary Agenda

• Pick a Day Trip

There are so many great day trips from Cancun.  Depending on if you want to explore more Mayan ruins, or see more cenotes, or beaches you can pick any of the following options for a day trip from Cancun. 

• Cozumel  ( Chankanaab National Park )
• Punta Laguna
• Playa del Carmen
• Las Colaradas 

As you can see there are so many options for day tours.  You can easily plan a 7-day Cancun itinerary and use any of these suggestions. 

Day 7 Cancun Itinerary - Cancun

The final day of the 7-day Cancun itinerary is about getting ready to go home! 

Day 7 Cancun Itinerary Agenda

Last day in paradise. If this is the day you are headed back to the airport I would suggest not going on a tour and just relaxing by the pool or beach.  You could also check out a spa, do some yoga, or eat some really nice meals.   

Pack Up and Go Home

If you rented a car you can drive yourself to the airport.  If you need a shuttle make sure to make pre-arrangements.  One thing to mention, sometimes traffic back to the airport can be really bad! Give yourself time to get to the airport! 

Ready to Plan a 7-Day Cancun Itinerary?

Hopefully, this helps you plan your Cancun itinerary. Cancun is a place you can visit over and over again and still experience something new every time you come.   Pack your bags for Cancun and get ready for some fun! 

There are so many things to do in Cancun for Adults as well as Cancun family activities.  It really is a great vacation spot for everyone.  No matter if you are only staying a weekend in Cancun or have the time to plan a complete 7-day Cancun itinerary, I know you will have fun! 

Facebook Community

Do you have any more questions about Cancun or need more  Cancun Travel Tips ?

Join my   Travel Community on Facebook .  This is a great group that can help answer any travel question you might have.  I also try to add any deals that companies send me as well.

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32 Comments

I don’t even remember what it was like flying into Cancun but you are so right about the Timeshare ppl! 😅 There is sooooo much to do in Cancun and its surrounding areas. This is a great itinerary. Highly recommend cenote experiences too, they’re so fun!

Yes, so many great options!

I LOVE MEXICO! We have always had a fabulous experience! These are great recommendations!

Thanks! Cancun is so beautiful!

Ugh, these Cancun beaches are calling my name!

me too girl!

Such great tips on what to do and how to plan a trip to Cancun! My daughter and I will be in that area next month and are looking forward to doing some of these activities.

Oh good! so much fun to be had!

I want to travel to Mexico. I am bookmarking this post. It has a wealth of information I can use. I love that there is so much to do if you want or not. I do love some relaxing time while on vacation. My husband prefers to go, go, go. So this is the perfect place for us.

Yes, it is a good place to balance activities and beach!

Cancun is on my bucket list! I pinned this for later when I actually can travel there! I’ve always wanted to go! This is going to be so helpful!!! Thank you

Oh good! I hope you get to go!

This is simply beautiful! Pinning to my bucketlist!

It is a bucketlist location for sure!

Would love to go back! We missed a bunch of these activities!

I would love to explore more of the area!

This 7 day Cancun itinerary would be quite an amazing trip!! So many beautiful excursions and beaches.

There really is so much to see!

Mexico is my happy place! This is a perfect 7-day itinerary for Cancun.

Yes, such a great place!

Great tips! Cancun looks like a lot of fun. I will take any beach right now! LOL

Me too! It won’t stop snowing here!

I love the Yucatan! I’ve been wanting to head a bit north of Cancun for a while now.

Such a beautiful area! So much to explore!

This looks absolutely amazing! I love that area and can’t wait to get back there some day!

It is a great area!

I’d love to visit Cancun! This is the perfect 7 day itinerary.

It is such a great vacation!

I love that you included two rest days in the itinerary. Those are so important.

I think that is what Cancun is all about enjoying the resorts and relaxing….there are plenty of activities to do but relaxing is important too for sure!

Fantastic itinerary for Cancun.. I love it there! It’s definitely a must-see location!

It is a great getaway vacation!

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Where Is Cancun? + Map

Cancun is located in Mexico . More specifically, it sits on the northeast coast of the Yucatán Peninsula in the state of Quintana Roo, right on the Caribbean Sea.

To help give you a lay of the land, here is a Cancun map:

You can also click here for a link to the interative Google Map of Cancun.

Getting To Cancun

Getting to cancun by air.

Many people travel to Cancun by plane, arriving into Cancun International Airport — which is conveniently only 14 miles from the Hotel Zone.

To get to and from your hotel, it’s wise to pre-book your transportation. As noted above,  BeachBound  works directly with  Amstar DMC  for this.

In my experience, after clearing customs, it was easy to find my Amstar driver in his bright flower pattern shirt holding a sign with my name. The ride itself was comfortable, with a clean air conditioned car and a cooler filled with refreshments.

Bonus: The driver also gave me loads of interesting local tips — like that Taquería Los Chachalacos within the Hotel Zone is his favorite place to get tacos al pastor.

Getting To Cancun By Land

Additionally, travelers visiting Cancun as part of a larger Mexico itinerary may visit the destination by land. It’s easy to get from Cancun to Playa del Carmen , Tulum , and other nearby popular tourist destinations.

To complete the journey, you can rent a car (I recommend DiscoverCars for this) or take public transportation (ADO is the regional bus service).

Getting Around Cancun

There are a number of ways to get around Cancun, including:

Renting a car. Renting a car is generally considered safe in Cancun.

Booking tours. Amstar DMC   offers a number of excursions to add to your itinerary for Cancun, Mexico.

Walking. The Cancun Hotel Zone is very safe to walk around and has sidewalks.

Public bus. Cancun’s local bus system connects the main traveler points of interest like the Hotel Zone, Boulevard Kukulcán (downtown), and Avenida Tulum. Tip: Just make sure you have exact change in Mexican Pesos for the ride, as drivers often can’t break larger bills.

When To Visit Cancun

While Cancun is a year-round destination, certain times of year can be more enjoyable than others.

December through April is typically considered the best time to visit Cancun, with clear and warm weather that isn’t oppressively hot like it can be in the summer.

If you’re looking to book the cheapest time to vacation in Cancun, May through November tends to be more budget-friendly with better hotel and flight deals.

July is largely considered the warmest month of the year, though as someone who has personally visited Cancun in July, I’ll say you can still have a fun and memorable trip. Yes, it’s hot, but you’ll likely spend a lot of your time in the water anyway.

Want to avoid the spring break crowds? Book your Cancun trip outside of March or April — especially the last two weeks of March.

How Many Days Are Enough For Cancun?

If you’re wondering how many days in Cancun are enough, I’d say it really depends on your trip goals.

In my opinion, 3 days in Cancun is the minimum I would do. Less than that and you’ll basically be packing to leave before you’ve fully unpacked.

Cancun is a stunning destination full of opportunities to relax, so to really give yourself a chance to unwind, 4 days or more is best.

Now, if you’re planning a trip to Cancun, Mexico that includes a mix of relaxation, adventure, and exploration, a week is the perfect amount of time to really immerse yourself in what the destination has to offer. That is why I’m outlining a 7 day Cancun itinerary in this article.

How Much Is A Trip To Cancun?

Wondering “how much does a trip to Cancun cost?” Well, if you’re staying at an all-inclusive and stick to the food and experiences available onsite, it simply costs the amount you paid for your accommodation, plus flight, airport transfers, and optional (but appreciated) tips.

That being said, exploring Cancun beyond the resort is recommended if you’re looking to dive deeper into the destination. In Cancun and around the Yucatán Peninsula, you’ll find cenotes, Maya ruins, jungle adventures, and more. Most Cancun tours range from about $100-$300 per person.

You can also find flight deals by using these tips for finding cheap airfare , like signing up for alerts with Secret Flying and Airfarewatchdog.

In short, Cancun vacation costs vary, but it’s possible to enjoy the destination on a reasonable budget.

Where To Stay In Cancun

Most travelers to Cancun stay in the Hotel Zone (Zona Hotelera), a 14-mile strip showcasing over 70 hotels. Because there are so many options, it can be tricky to choose which Cancun resort to book.

I recommend choosing a place that is:

• On the Caribbean side of the strip (vs the lagoon side)
• Within Punta Cancun , the commerical heart of the Hotel Zone with loads of beach activities, restaurants, and nightlife

Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach

One property that fits both of those requirements — and more — is the Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach, a stunning 5-star all-inclusive resort full of incredible experiences.

Here is a quick gallery snapshot of the resort:

Featuring nine restaurants, a sports bar with game room, a sumptuous 40,000-square-foot spa, an oceanfront fitness center, multiple pools and swim up bars, nightly entertainment, direct beach access, and an array of onsite activities from water polo to kayaking to tequila tasting, you’ll truly never be bored.

I’ve been to many all-inclusives over the years, and can say the service and attention to detail at the Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach is outstanding.

Additionally, the dining and entertainment is next level. Not only do they host outstanding nightly entertainment like fire and aquatic shows, but almost every meal had an interactive element — from ballet dancers at Le Basilic to a mariachi band at La Joya to immersive 360-degree digital art at The Table.

The resort is also conveniently located adjecent to the ferry dock for trips to Isla Mujeres as well as next to Cancun’s famous nightlife-filled Party Zone. And if you’re traveling as a family, there is an onsite Coral KidZ Club to entertain the little ones.

In terms of accommodation, the property features 602 spacious and clean suites — all with ocean views and private terraces.

Looking to uplevel your Cancun trip? Opt for the resort’s Infinite Club, which features upgraded accommodation, access to exclusive areas of the resort, and special perks like hydrotherapy spa treatments, premium beverage selection, and special personlized resort experiences.

Click here for full information and to book your stay .

7 Day Cancun Itinerary

Now it’s time to dive into our Cancun 7 day itinerary .

This Cancun trip guide is based on my own experience in the destination, and is completely customizable. Feel free to move days around or swap out excursions to fit your interests.

There are some options for alternative Cancun experiences below, too. As stated above, your tours can be booked right through  BeachBound .

Additionally, I’ve included Cancun trip itinerary ideas for shorter trips toward the bottom of this guide. You’ll find options for 3 days in Cancun as well as 4 days in Cancun.

Remember, too, that the Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach hosts a wide array of daily activities, like pool games, bingo, kayaking, beach volleyball, tequila tasting, circus-style shows, and more.

Here is a sample schedule. Keep in mind, this isn’t even the full roster of events:

Day #1: Explore The Resort

Whether you’re staying for a week or only have one day in Cancun, you’ll definitely want to enjoy the resort.

The beauty of staying at an all-inclusive in Cancun is everything is taken care of, from the activities to the food to the drinks to the stunning scenery.

Since today is a travel day, it’s smart not to schedule too much for yourself. Spend time exploring the resort, swimming the Caribbean Sea, sipping cocktails at the swim up bar, and taking part in one of the many resort activities.

For dinner, immerse yourself in Mexican history and culture at The Table , an interactive 9-course dining and pairing experience. Each dish tells the story of Mexican history and Maya culture, from prehistoric times through colonization to modern day.

For instance, a king crab chilpachole cooked with lava rock in a dish made to resemble a volcano is served to represent how after the land was first created from cooling lava, crustacean-like creatures were the first life to emerge.

On top of that, digital art, live music, actors, and narration help to bring it all to life.

This will cerainly be a memorable meal, as The Table is one of the most unique restaurants in Cancun. Just note that seatings are limited and are only at 6:30pm on Fridays and Sundays.

Day #2: Enjoy Cancun’s Beaches

When researching what to do in Cancun , the beach will likely be at the top of your list. You could spend every day of your 7 day Cancun itinerary exploring the sand and be totally happy.

And for good reason: the Mexican Caribbean coastline is dreamy, with soft white sand and inviting turquoise waters.

Spend the morning swapping between swimming in the sea and lounging in the comfortable lounge chairs provided by the resort.

Then, after a lunch of fresh catch and conch ceviche at the al fresco Isla Contoy , get active with some kayaking, snorkeling, or stand up paddle boarding. You can also go jet skiing right from the resort!

Before heading back to your room to shower for dinner, enjoy a cocktail in the sand as you watch a beautiful Cancun sunset.

For dinner, opt for a AAA Five Diamond meal at Le Basilic , a fine dining French restaurant with a multi-course food pairing menu that features local ingredients and Mexican wines. Not only is the food delicious, but the eatery is decorated with abstract paintings created by local artist León Alva.

Live piano music and ballet dancing provide entertainment while you dine.

Afterward, check the resort’s nightly entertainment schedule, which ranges from circus shows in the Grand Coral Theater to live music in the Lobby Lounge to dancing in the Havannah Club and beyond.

Day #3: Day Trip From Cancun To Isla Mujeres

One great thing about planning a Cancun itinerary for 7 days is you have the chance to schedule in day trips — like to Isla Mujeres , a 4.3-mile-long island known for its beautiful beaches and abundant shopping.

The ferry departs from right next to the Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach , and it takes about 30 minutes to reach Isla Mujeres.

Once you exit the ferry terminal, you’ll be bombarded with street vendors trying to sell you their wares and taxi drivers offering tours of the island.

My suggestion: walk away from the main drag to the quieter side streets to enjoy the shops in a more peaceful setting. A few items you’ll see a lot of include macrame clothing, Cuban cigars, and Talavera Pottery .

You can also walk to the stunning Playa Norte (North Beach), which has soft white sand and translucent blue water.

On the beach are also restaurants and bars, some of which are really cute and offer beautiful ocean views.

To reach Playa Norte, you can walk El Malecon , a scenic seaside walking path between Calle Mateos and Calle Allende where you can enjoy a photo opp with the Isla Mujeres sign and potentially spot dolphins in the water

If you’d like to explore more of Isla Mujeres, you can rent a golf cart, which is about $50 for a half-day. A few experiences of interest on the island include:

• Seeing the waterfront sculptures at Punta Sur
• Visiting pretty churches like Capilla de Guadalupe and Iglesia de Concepcion Immaculada
• Purchasing handmade jewelry at the Women’s Beading Cooperative

Once back in Cancun, freshen up for a delicious dinner at La Joya , the Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach’s upscale Mexican restaurant. As you enjoy dishes like fresh fish in creamy tequila corn sauce and beef barbacoa cooked in maguey and avocado leaves, you’ll be entertained by an 8-piece mariachi band.

Pro tip: this eatery is known for its margaritas, which are delicious. I tried both a spicy margarita on the rocks and a frozen tamarind margarita. Yum!

Afterward, check out the nightly entertainment or play a round of air hockey or foosball in the Sports Lounge .

Day #4: Have A Cancun Jungle Adventure

Ready for an adventure? Today on your Cancun travel itinerary we’ve got another day trip, this time in the form of a jungle adventure.

There are a number of jungle tours that involve ziplining, ATVing, and swimming in Mexico’s famous cenotes — which are natural deep-water sinkholes.

The Yucatán Peninsula is home to at least 6,000 cenotes, so you certainly have plenty of options.

The closest cenotes to Cancun are along the Ruta de Los Cenotes Puerto Morelos , which is about an hour drive — either via tour or your own car — from the hotel. Many of the cenotes also have ziplines and high jumps that offer an adventurous way to enter the water.

Another option is Valladolid , which is about two hours away by car. While I personally haven’t visited this city, I’ve read that because Valladolid has a higher elevation than the coast, the cenotes feature more dramatic drops and scenery.

If you love adventure travel , this will likely be your best day in Cancun.

Afterward, come back to the resort to enjoy a delicious dinner at the Tuscany Trattoria & Terrace . Transport yourself from Mexico to Italy through plates of homemade pasta, creamy risotto, and bistecca alla fiorentina before enjoying some evening entertainment. Check the daily schedule to see the array of options.

Day #5: Visit Maya Ruins From Cancun

No Cancun travel blog would be complete without mentioning Maya ruins. If you plan to stay a week in Cancun, you definitely need to add this activity to your list.

The Maya are an Indigenous people of Mexico and Central America, who built remarkable cities featuring temples, palaces, and pyramids from the Mayan Preclassical Period (2000 B.C. to A.D. 250).

Today, these ancient cities sit in ruins, though are still incredibly impressive.

In fact, when researching what to do around Cancun, you’ll see numerous options for ruins to visit. A few of these include:

Chichen Itza. No travel guide to Cancun would be complete without mentioning this popular UNESCO World Heritage Site, which was one of the largest Maya cities. Known for its large central pyramid, It was founded by the Itza in the 5th century AD and is believed to have had over 50,000 inhabitants.

As it’s one of the New 7 Wonders Of The World, you’ll certainly want to add this to your 7 day Cancun itinerary.

Tulum Ruins. If you’re planning a Cancun Tulum itinerary, the Tulum Ruins are a must. These ruins are known for many things — like the site’s stunning location right on the Caribbean Sea. In fact, the Tulum Ruins are one of the few enclosed cities built by the Mayas, featuring walls on three sides and an open fourth side facing the water.

Coba. Coba is another popular Cancun Mexico itinerary addition. Located about 29 miles northwest of Tulum, Coba is known for having the highest pyramid in the northern Yucatan, called Nohoch Mul.

Ek Balam. While the previously mentioned Maya sites are mentioned in almost every Cancun information guide, Ek Balam is less touristy — though still very important, especially as the site was the region’s main political center for many centuries. A few highlights of a visit are seeing the uniquely shaped pyramid and getting to climb to the highest point of the ruins at 95 feet.

If you’d like to book a tour, Amstar DMC  offers a number of options.

For dinner, opt for a spot along the Hotel Zone or have an Italian meal at Viña Del Mar at the Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach. While gazing out over the Caribbean Sea, you’ll be entertained by a soprano and tenor show.

Since you don’t have to be up early tomorrow, consider leaving the resort to enjoy the nightlife in Cancun’s Party Zone .

Yes, it’s touristy, but you’ll find some epic dance parties at places like Coco Bongo and The City Discotheque , both of which also include acrobatic performances.

These clubs are surrounded by loads of other nightlife options, as well, and the streets in this area have a loud and festive feel.

If you’d prefer to enjoy Cancun’s nightlife away from the craziness of the Party Zone, another option of many is Distrito Gourmet , which is a kind of open-air food hall-meets-nightclub concept. The icing on top is that you also get beautiful water views.

Day #6: Explore Cancun Beaches & Hotel Zone & Spa Day

Whether you’re backpacking Cancun, traveling solo , creating a Cancun family itinerary, or planning a trip for two to Cancun, the beach will likely be a main point of interest.

In all honesty, you could visit the beach every day of your 7 day Cancun itinerary and still have an incredible trip.

Spend the morning swimming, snorkeling and paddling. Also, if you haven’t done so yet, take a short 15-minute walk along the beach to Punta Cancun Lighthouse . You can’t climb it, but it’s a scenic walk along — and sometimes in — the water that offers beautiful views looking back toward the resort.

After lunch at the poolside Bikini Bar or inside at the bistro-style Coral Cafe , take a walk along the Hotel Zone. There are a number of points of interest, like:

• Party Zone , a club area that is wild at night but still interesting to see during the day
• La Isla Shopping Village , a mall with a wide variety of shops, eateries, and attractions like Ripley’s Mirror Maze and the Tequila Museum
• Mercado Coral Negro , a flea market with souvenirs — though note it’s quite pricey
• Playa Delfines , a public beach where you can also take a photo with the Cancun sign
• El Sol de Cancun , a ferris wheel offering beautiful views of Cancun
• El Rey , Maya ruins named after “the King” statue on site that also has a botanical garden
• Museo Maya de Cancún y Zona Arqueológica de San Miguelito , a Maya museum and archeological site
• Mayan Market , which sells Maya-inspired jewelry and handicrafts as well as artisanal tequila
• Restaurante Lorenzillos , a great spot for fresh seafood meals right on the water
• Taquería Los Chachalacos , a taquería known for its delicious tacos al pastor

After exploring Cancun, head back to the Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach for a treatment at their Gem Spa .

Their signature treatment is the 80-minute Seventh Wonder Luxury Massage, which involves an essential oil massage where seven quartz stones are placed on the seven corresponding chakras of the body for a transformative experience.

When visiting, I personally did the Hydrotherapy Treatment, a 10-step circuit that involves a mix of hot and cold rituals.

Starting with a soothing eucalyptus steam, you’ll then cool down in a multi-jet shower before getting a clay body mask followed by closing the pores with cool ice crystals. From there, you’ll relax in a dry sauna followed by a rain shower. Up next is a series of pools: a hot whirlpool, a cool plunge pool, a colder plunge pool, and then a reflexology-focused underwater pebble walkway. The experience culminates with a swim in the “pool of sensations” with massaging neck jets, bubbles, floor geysers, and other therapeutic elements.

Afterward, you’ll be nice and relaxed for dinner on the beach at Nah K´aax , which means “Jungle House” in the Mayan language. Listen to the waves lapping up onto the coast as you dig into Mexican-Asian eats in a boho chic space.

You’ll also have live entertainment, either from a DJ spinning right on the beach or their twice-weekly fire show.

Day #7: Enjoy A Cancun Sunrise

Last on my one week in Cancun itinerary is catching the sunrise!

While I personally woke up for sunrise every day of my Cancun trip, I realize getting out of bed before 5:30am isn’t for everyone.

If you haven’t seen a Cancun sunrise yet by the last day of your trip, make sure you take this final opportunity to do so.

If possible, skip going back to bed and instead and enjoy the resort amenities one last time before you have to leave for your flight. Savor an al fresco breakfast, swim in the pool, and dip your toes in the Caribbean Sea one last time before heading back home to reality.

Alternative: 4 Day Cancun Itinerary

Can’t swing a 7 day Cancun itinerary? You can still have an epic trip! Here is my 4 days in Cancun itinerary:

• Day 1: Explore the resort, relax by the pool, and partake in some included activities
• Day 2: Relax on the beach, do some water sports, and book a spa treatment
• Day 3: Do a Cancun day trip like exploring Maya ruins or having a jungle adventure
• Day 4: Wake up to see a Cancun sunrise and enjoy the pool or beach before your flight home

Alternative: 3 Day Cancun Itinerary

Only have time for a weekend in Cancun ? Here is how I would spend 3 days in Cancun:

• If you want to get away from the resort, do a quick nearby day trip like visiting the El Rey Ruins right in the Hotel Zone for an hour or two
• Day 3: Wake up to see a Cancun sunrise and enjoy the pool or beach before your flight home

Tips For First Time Travelers To Cancun

Wondering how to plan a trip to Cancun, Mexico ? To help make your beach vacation as amazing as possible, here are a few tips for visiting Cancun:

Check the latest entry and exit rules for travel in Cancun. This goes for general passport, visa, and vaccination requirements, as well as necessary steps due to the pandemic.

Don’t schedule too much on your first day. Traveling is exhausting — especially when you factor in early wake up times and time zone changes — so don’t schedule too much for yourself on your arrival day. The good thing is all-inclusive resorts like the Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach have daily activity schedules, so if you’re feeling energetic there will be plenty to do.

Bring cash for tips and extras.  While tipping at an all-inclusive resort in Cancun is not mandatory, it is a nice gesture. The local currency is the Mexican Peso, though you can also tip in US dollars (just make sure to leave only bills and not coins).

Note that paying in Mexican Pesos off the resort can get you better rates. For instance, we paid US dollars for our ferry tickets to Isla Mujeres — and paid about $6 more per ticket than we would have if we used pesos.

Note that many all inclusive resorts bake tips and taxes into the room rate, though leaving a little extra for your servers and bartenders is a kind way to show your appreciation. You should also tip bag handlers, spa workers, and housekeeping.

As an initial guideline, consider tipping about $5 for breakfast and lunch and $10 for dinner.

Allow yourself to relax. If you’re lucky enough to have planned a 7 day Cancun itinerary, you’ll have plenty of time to just enjoy the all-inclusive resort and partake in all of the included food, drink, activities, and entertainment — not to mention the gorgeous scenery and beach. Dedicate a good chunk of your itinerary to enjoying these amenities.

Take at least one day trip. While your Cancun all-inclusive resort will certainly be a trip highlight, there is more to the destination. Spend some time getting to know the local history, culture, and landscape. Even if you only have a weekend trip to Cancun planned, you can still see Maya ruins right within the Hotel Zone. And if you have a week to spare, a 7 day Cancun itinerary gives you plenty of time to enjoy the resort and beyond.

Wear (reef-safe) sunscreen & sunglasses.  Cancun is a sunny Caribbean destination, so you’ll definitely want to pack sunscreen and sunglasses. To help protect the environment, consider a high SPF reef-safe sunscreen.

Wake up for at least one sunrise. The sunrise in Cancun is gorgeous and absolutely worth waking up early for. There is also something truly special about wandering the resort on your own.

Is Cancun Safe?

Yes, Cancun is a safe travel destination — as long as you know where to go and where to avoid.

The Cancun Hotel Zone, for instance, is very safe, and you’ll see many local police helping to keep it that way. My Amstar driver explained that because tourism is so vital to Cancun’s economy, the destination really works hard to keep it safe for visitors.

If you plan to leave the Hotel Zone, check with your hotel to see where is and isn’t safe to explore in Cancun.

Mexico Travel Insurance

When visiting Mexico—or anywhere else in the world—it’s wise to get travel insurance.

For this, I have two recommendations:

SafetyWing . If you’re looking for something straightforward and budget-friendly, you can’t beat SafetyWing. They offer one global policy that you can cancel at any time or continue paying for long-term coverage (making it the perfect option for digital nomads!).

Their plan includes medical coverage, trip interruptions, personal liability, unplanned overnight stays, lost luggage, and more.

World Nomads . For something more comprehensive, World Nomads is a great option. While you’ll pay a bit more, you’ll typically get higher coverage maximums as well as additional inclusions—like trip cancellation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Traveling To Cancun

Q) how many days do you need in cancun.

You need a minimum of three days in Cancun to explore what it has to offer!

Q) Is 7 days in Cancun too much?

No, there are plenty of memorable activities to do in Cancun in a week. You can also visit other places along the Yucatán Peninsula. For instance, there are many fun things to do in Holbox , Tulum, and Playa del Carmen.

Q) Is Cancun an expensive holiday?

It depends on your travel style; however, you will find many free and cheap things to do in Cancun as well as a range of pricing for accommodation.

What would you add to this 7 day Cancun itinerary? Save this Cancun blog for later!

Bonus  mexico travel guides :.

Whether you follow my Cancun 4 day itinerary or spend a week, here are more travel guides that will help you plan your trip!

6 Best Beaches In Holbox, Mexico (Stunning!)

15 Best Beach Clubs In Holbox Island, Mexico

23 Best Things To Do In Holbox Island, Mexico (+ Sample Itinerary!)

14 Travel Tips For Puerto Vallarta For A Fun & Safe Trip (In-Depth Guide!)

Solo Travel In Puerto Vallarta: The Ultimate Guide

5 Active Ways To Explore Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula

21 Best Vegan Resorts In Mexico

Solo Travel In Mexico City: The Ultimate Guide

Related posts:

About Jessie Festa

Jessie Festa is a New York-based travel content creator who is passionate about empowering her audience to experience new places and live a life of adventure. She is the founder of the solo female travel blog, Jessie on a Journey, and is editor-in-chief of Epicure & Culture , an online conscious tourism magazine. Along with writing, Jessie is a professional photographer and is the owner of NYC Photo Journeys , which offers New York photo tours, photo shoots, and wedding photography. Her work has appeared in publications like USA Today, CNN, Business Insider, Thrillist, and WestJet Magazine.

Perfect 5-7 Day Cancun Itinerary for First-Timers! Tips & Guide

Disclosure: Some links are affiliate links – which means, at no extra cost to you, I earn a small commission if you make a purchase through a link.

Are you ready for an unforgettable adventure in paradise? I got you! This 5-7 day Cancun itinerary will help you make the absolute most out of your vacation time.

Cancun, Mexico, offers a little something for everyone. Whether you’re a beach lover, a food enthusiast, or just looking for thrilling adventures, it’s all here. Get ready to soak up the sun, explore ancient ruins, indulge in delicious cuisine, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

With five to seven days in Cancun, you’ll have just the right amount of time to experience all the exciting highlights of the Riviera Maya. So pack your bags and let’s embark on this exciting adventure!

Table of Contents

Are 5-7 Days in Cancun Enough?

You might wonder how many days in Cancun are enough?

If you’re traveling to Cancun on limited vacation days, 5 days are enough for first-timers to dip their toes in. You’ll get to explore the city, lounge on the stunning white sand beaches, and even take day trips to the nearby islands.

Now, if you have 7 days in Cancun, you can squeeze in more adventures or simply kick back and relax on the beach.

And here’s the best part: since getting around the Riviera Maya from Cancun is such a breeze, you’ll have endless choices of exciting activities and attractions at your fingertips.

Trust me, you won’t be able to do everything in 5-7 days. You will leave Cancun craving for more! But hey! That’s just the perfect excuse to come back again, right? I know that’s exactly what I did!

Are you ready to optimize your 5 day Cancun trip? Let’s go!

Suggested 5-7 Day Cancun Itinerary

Consider this sample itinerary when you’re planning a trip to Cancun. I’ve planned this itinerary so that it’ll alternate between slow pace and fast pace days. Switch around the days so you can create your own perfect 7 day Cancun itinerary.

Day 1 – Hotel Zone & Beach Day

Day 2 – isla mujeres & snorkeling, day 3 – chichen itza & cenotes.

• Day 4 – Downtown Cancun & Cirque du Soleil

Day 5 – Cozumel & Submarine Ride

Day 6 – xcaret park, day 7 – shopping & bird’s-eye view.

Get ready to kick off your first day in Cancun by exploring the Hotel Zone and soaking up the sun on the beach as soon as you’ve settled in!

Cancun’s Hotel Zone is famous for its fancy resorts, lively parties, and breathtaking beaches. Stroll down the main strip of the Hotel Zone, known as Boulevard Kukulcán, and marvel at the incredible hotels that line the street..

And if you are near the Mayan Museum of Cancun (Museo Maya de Cancun), why not swing by and learn about some Mayan history?

In the afternoon, grab your beach essentials and head over to beautiful Cancun beaches, such as Playa Delfines or Playa Tortugas. Spend some time sunbathing on the soft white sands or take a dip in the crystal-clear turquoise waters.

End your day with a delicious dinner at one of the many restaurants in the Hotel Zone. Whether you want Mexican or international cuisine, there are many choices available.

I highly recommend Restaurants Mextreme , a lively traditional Mexican restaurant. You won’t be there just for the food, but also for the vibes and dances.

Not ready to call it a day yet? Check out some of Cancun’s famous nightclubs, such as Coco Bongo, and immerse yourself in its energetic nightlife.

Afterwards, head back to your hotel to get some well-deserved rest before you exhaust yourself. Our exciting days in the city are just getting started!

Day two, let’s get going!

Jump on a ferry and embark on an exciting day excursion to Isla Mujeres, a little island situated just a short 15-minute ride off the coast of Cancun. With its compact size, you can easily explore the entire island in no time, making it an ideal choice for a day trip.

Exploring the island in a golf cart is one of the top activities to do on Isla Mujeres. Don’t forget to bring your driver’s license so you don’t miss out! Have a blast exploring the island!

Make sure you put these two stops down on your Isla Mujeres itinerary: the turtle santuary and the Temple of Ixchel, located at the farthest point of the island!

Can’t drive, that’s okay too! There are plenty of things to do on Isla Mujeres even without a car.

Join a tour for some epic diving in the Caribbean Sea!

The Manchones Reef is only 10 minutes boat ride from Isla Mujeres. Here you’ll find yourself in the enchanting underwater world of MUSA (Cancun Underwater Museum of Art). Take your pick of diving and swimming alongside colorful fish or snorkeling on the reef .

And when the sun sets, indulge in a sunset dinner with breathtaking views. Isla Mujeres has it all, from rugged adventures to serene moments. Just make sure to catch that last ferry back to Cancun!

Rise and shine! You’ll need to wake up extra early, for it’s going to be a long day.

Right in the heart of the jungle lies an ancient Mayan city, just waiting for you to explore. Chichen Itza is an absolute must-see on all first-time visitors’ itinerary. You definitely don’t want to miss out on it, especially if you are in Cancun for 5-7 days.

There are plenty of ways you can do this day trip. You can opt for a solo road trip, hop on a bus, or join a lively tour from Cancun to Chichen Itza. For more details, check out my comprehensive travel guide to Chichén Itzá !

Either way, prepare yourself for a mind-boggling experience. It’s like stepping back in time, except without the time machine. Prepare to spend at least 3 hours touring around the ancient Mayan ruins.

Don’t forget to drop by a cenote for a revitalizing swim before returning to Cancun.

Now that you’re back in Cancun, bet you’re starving! But don’t go into hangry mode just yet.

No matter where you’re staying, you can enjoy a delicious feast at the Brazilian steakhouse, Mr. Pampas . It’s conveniently located in both the Hotel Zone and downtown Cancun. Not only that, this all-you-can- eat experience will cost you less than $30 per person!

Day 4 – Downtown Cancun & Cirque du Soleil

Let’s explore Cancun’s bustling downtown on day 4. Take a leisurely walk down Avenida Tulum, filled with an array of shops and restaurants.

Don’t miss out on Market 28 , a vibrant handicraft market, perfect for souvenir shopping!

During the evening, locals gather at the Palapas Park for food and music. The night market is one of the best places in Cancun to experience local life. There’s also a circular ride that toys with human emotions by hanging you upside down in the air for a good minute.

But don’t end the day just yet. The highlight of this day is the  Cirque du Soleil’s Joya show . Since it’s near Cancun, you can easily take a taxi over.

Witness the breathtaking acrobatics and spellbinding performances of this world-renowned circus. Snag a dinner & show combo ticket if you want to enjoy some fine dining before the show.

It bummed me out to miss the Cirque du Soleil’s Joya show during my first trip to Cancun. Which is why I made it a priority the second time around and even included it in this first-timer’s Cancun itinerary!

If you only have a 5 day trip to Cancun, get ready to wrap up your vacation with a bang by heading to Cozumel island for an unforgettable adventure!

Here’s a detailed guide if you help on how to get to Cozumel from your hotel.

Hop into the Atlantis submarine and embark on a breathtaking journey to the bottom of the ocean floor.

Fun fact: Less than 1% of the world’s population has ever experienced a submarine ride. Well, you’re about to become part of that exclusive group!

Be prepared to witness the most magnificent sights imaginable as you descend deeper into the unknown. From vibrant coral reefs to fascinating marine life, you will be able to see it all up close. There’s no better way to end your 5 days in Cancun than with this unforgettable submarine ride.

Looking to make your return trip a breeze? Cozumel’s got you covered with its very own international airport! Picture this: lounging on the stunning beaches of Cozumel, soaking up the sun before hopping on your flight. Sounds like the perfect way to this Cancun trip, right?

Otherwise, head back to Cancun. Since the submarine tours are early in the morning, you’ll have plenty of time to catch your afternoon flights.

Now if you got a week in Cancun, there’s still much to do!

Get ready to have a blast at the beach clubs on the west side of the island and enjoy some well-deserved down time! If you rent a car or moped, you can explore the whole of Cozumel!

Before you head back to Cancun, enjoy the evening in Playa del Carmen. Explore the shops and nightlife on Fifth Avenue.

Xcaret Park is another day trip from Cancun that you must put on your itinerary! This massive ecological park will take at least 2 whole days if you want to explore it completely. Regardless of who you’re traveling with, there’s something for everyone at Xcaret Park.

Begin your day by swimming through the refreshing underground rivers. Don’t worry if you can’t swim. There are life jackets and lifeguards, plus 5 exit points along the way. I can’t swim and still had a blast.

Enjoy the rest of the morning sunbathing on the beach (we’ll all know we’ll need to even out that tan from the past few days) or try out some exciting water sports.

When you feel your stomach growl, dry off and make your way to one of the many buffets available for a delightful lunch. Once you’re full, continue wandering through the Xcaret Park.

See the amazing marine life at the aquarium or dive deep into Mexico’s culture. Check out the history and traditions at the Folk Art Museum or the Mayan Village. Get up close and see wildlife, birds, and butterflies in their respective sanctuaries.

The day ends with an epic 2 hour cultural show!

With an all-inclusive ticket combo , you can make the most of your day. This incredible package provides round-trip transportation, lockers, buffet lunch–all in one!

We’re back in the Cancun hotel zone for the last day of our 7 day itinerary. End the amazing week by spending the day treating yourself to some retail therapy at the many shopping centers. This is the perfect time to buy some souvenirs for your friends and family (and for yourself!).

Make sure you don’t miss out on the chance to see Cancun from above! Experience the thrill of parasailing or enjoy a ride on a Ferris wheel for a bird’s-eye view of the city. These are short activities you can easily fit into your last day in Cancun before your flight.

Planning Your 5-7 Days Cancun Itinerary

Have I got you excited yet? Here are some resources to help you get started on planning the perfect Cancun trip for 5-7 days!

Want a complete guide? This post I’ve written about  things to do in Cancun will give you a full rundown of what to expect in Cancun, as well as more fun attractions in Cancun.

Save Money with Go City Cancun Pass

There’s a bunch of things to do in Cancun that I can’t even squeeze into this 5-7 day itinerary! If you’re all about joining excursions, getting a Go City Cancun Pass will totally help you save some cash! Plus, some activities on this Cancun itinerary are already included in the pass, so it’s definitely worth checking it out to see if it suits your trip.

You can choose a pass depending on how many days or activities you’re up for and get ready to have a blast!

What to Pack for Cancun

• Enough summer clothes for 1 week in Cancun
• Driver’s license (you’ll need it to rent the golf carts!)
• Beach towel
• Sunscreen (lots of them! The sun is strong!)
• Comfortable walking shoes – like Tevas
• Refillable water bottle with a purifier – Grayls (don’t drink the tap water in Mexico!)

Where to Stay in Cancun

There’re plenty of choices for where to stay in Cancun. You got the main areas – Hotel Zone or downtown Cancun.

For Cancun resorts and beach life, the Hotel Zone is where it’s at!

If you’re looking to immerse yourself in the local culture, staying in downtown Cancun is the way to go. Here, you’ll find a vibrant atmosphere with local markets, authentic eateries, and lively entertainment. It’s also a lot more budget friendly.

If you have many nights in Cancun, you can also try splitting up your stays between the two neighborhoods to experience it all.

Downtown Cancun

• The Quetzal
• Moloch Hostel & Suites
• Salvia Cancun Aparts – ocean view suites
• Cancun Beachfront Condo

Flying into Cancun International Airport

One thing that makes a vacation in Cancun so popular is the fact that it has its own international airport! It’s super convenient to get to from many countries.

Once you’ve arrive in Cancun, go through customs and collect your luggages. Swing by the ATMs to take out some Mexican pesos for your trip before you leave the airport.

How do I get from Cancun Airport to Cancun?

The Cancun International Airport is located just south of Cancun. Getting to Cancun has never been easier for first-time visitors.

The airport offers various ground transportation services, including taxis, shuttles, and rental cars. If you’re traveling alone and will like to save some money, make a beeline to the ADO bus stop just outside the terminal building. The bus to downtown Cancun leaves frequently throughout the day.

Getting around Cancun

This itinerary for 5-7 days in Cancun is totally doable with public transit. Download the Moovit app to get directions and real-time bus arrivals. There’s even a feature where they’ll alert you when to get off the bus! It’s super convenient.

Traveling in a group? Consider taking taxis or renting a car .

While you don’t need a car for this 5-day itinerary, having a car definitely makes traveling around much easier. So if you’re planning to drive, bring your driver’s license (or an International driver’s license if yours is not in English).

Best Time to Visit Cancun

If you’re looking for the best time to visit Cancún, get ready for an amazing adventure! Cancún is a paradise any time of the year, but knowing the perfect season to go can make your experience even more extraordinary.

One week in Cancun is a popular winter getaway choice for many people in the northern hemisphere. Which means from December to April, Cancun experiences its peak season. This means vacationing with incredible weather, but at a hefty price tag!

If you’re on a  budget , the low season from May to November might be the ideal time for you. You’ll be able to get great deals on accommodations and tours.

Swimming with Whale Sharks

One of the best things about going to Cancun during the summer months is the whale season, from June to September. It’s an incredibly fun experience to see these magnificent creatures in their natural environment. If you’re traveling to Cancun during the summer, you must include this on your Cancun trip itinerary!

Here are a few tours that offer swimming with whale sharks!

Check availability with EcoColors Mexico

Check availability with Ocean Tours Mexico

Check availability with Isla Fun Tours

Must-Visit Archaeological Sites

Ready to embark on an adventure to uncover all the archaeological wonders? The Yucatan Peninsula, where Cancun is located, holds a treasure trove of remarkable Mayan ruins. Apart from the must-visit Chichen Itza mentioned in this Cancun itinerary, you’ve also got Tulum, Coba, Uxmal, and Ek Balam waiting for you. Perfect reason to plan another trip, isn’t it?

• Travel guide & tip to Tulum Ruins
• Travel guide & tips to Uxmal Ruins

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re seeking relaxation or adventure, Cancun never fails to deliver unforgettable memories. Use this 5-7 day itinerary to help you plan your ultimate itinerary for Cancun.

Ultimate Guide to Visiting Chichen Itza: Day Trips and Best Tours

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Discover Cancun and Riviera Maya in a week

Mention you’re going to Cancun and most people would think about some of the world’s most awe-inspiring beaches. This spring break holiday destination definitely has beaches, but Cancun is so much more than that. With our 7-day suggested itinerary, you would have a real taste of this captivating city, you will be introduced to the best attractions and you will be able to visit the ancient Mayan ruins. You can absolutely make any changes you like, to adapt the tour to your preferences and create your own itinerary.

Things to know before travelling to  Mexico:

Language – Being a Spanish colony for three centuries, Spanish have become the nation’s language which is widely spoken by majority of the people in the country. However, it is important to note that the people also use Mexican Spanish, a manipulation of the Spanish language which has its own distinct pronunciation, grammar, and slang. Ergo, tourists who speak Spanish might have a hard time understanding when the locals speak Mexican Spanish.

Currency exchange –  The official Mexican currency is the Mexican Peso. Exchanging money in Cancun is easy and follows the same standard to elsewhere in America. Most major establishments like hotels and restaurants in major tourist and business destinations accept credit cards. The best way to get local currency is to use the ATMs, which are widely available in Cancun and other major cities, and withdraw in Mexican Peso to get the best rate.

Safety and security – There is currently no nationwide security advisory in effect for Mexico. Check your country’s travel advisory website to get the most up-to-date information for your personal safety abroad. Keep your guard up at all times and avoid any streets that are not crowded. Do not carry debit or credit cards with you, or hide it in your bra or shoes. There were incidences of robbery when offenders will escort you to an ATM and make you take out as much as you can. Leave your passport in the hotel’s safety deposit box and just carry a photocopy.

Getting around – Travelling in Mexico is relatively easy because of highly developed and cheap public transportation system. However, tourist attractions in Cancun and Mayan Riviera are not within walking distance from the resorts, where you will most likely stay. Rental cars, taxis and local bus are some of the options to get around.

Where to stay – Cancun and Riviera Maya have heaps of accommodation to suit every pocket, from budget hostels to luxury hotels. For first time travelers who are looking for relaxation and a little bit of sightseeing, then we recommend staying in the Hotel Zone ( Zona Hotelera ). If you’ve been to Cancun or Mayan Riviera once before, and would like to venture away from most tourists, then we suggest Isla Mujeres, located 13 kilometers off the coast of Cancun.

Day by Day Itinerary: Discover Cancun and  Riviera Maya in a week

Day 1: Cancun

Assuming you had to cross an ocean to get to Mexico, your first day will be rife with jet lag. Take a flight that arrives in  Cancún International Airport (CUN) as early as possible and check into your preferred hotel/hostel. The airport is in the middle of Cancun and Playa Del Carmen and travel time to either is approximately 50 minutes. Taxi service is available outside the Arrival Hall and provides 24-hour service to the passengers. A cheaper alternative is ADO Bus, which provides regular service to Cancun and Playa Del Carmen.

Where to stay in Cancun:

NIZUC Resort and Spa ( Blvd Kukulcan Km 21, Cancun 77500, Mexico )

Secrets The Vine Cancun ( Blvd Kukulcan Km. 14.5 | Retorno del Rey, Lot 38 + 38-b, Zona Hotelera, Cancun 77500, Mexico )

Live Aqua Beach Resort Cancun ( Blvd Kukulcan km 12.5 | Zona Hotelera, Cancun 77500, Mexico )

Hyatt Zilara Cancun ( Blvd Kukulcan Km 11.5 | Zona Hotelera, Cancun 77500, Mexico )

The Ritz-Carlton, Cancun ( Retorno del Rey 36 | Zona Hotelera, Quintana Roo, Cancun 77500, Mexico )

There’s no better way to get acquainted with the city than visiting a local market. Head to Coral Negro Flea Market and do some shopping. Spend the rest of the day in Playa Delfines , a very popular beach with transparent turquoise water and white sand. This postcard perfect beach, not too far from the Hotel Zone, provides serene beach experience plus greater privacy. However, it is not an ideal beach for swimming because of heavy currents and riptides. The beach is secluded and not spoiled by commercialism that’s why you won’t find any fancy hotels, restaurants and bars. Make sure to bring your snacks and supplies if you would like to spend the whole day here.

Day 2: Cancun

On day 2, join a Mexican cooking class. On this tour, you will learn how to cook Mexico’s national dish and know its history and origin. You will also be introduced to traditional Mexican flavors and learn the best way to cook authentic Mexican food. There are plenty of tours offered online, so make sure to read reviews first before you make your reservation. Can Cook in Cancun is currently the number one cooking class in Cancun based on TripAdvisor reviews. At 115 USD it is not the cheapest option to spend your afternoon in Cancun but it is a different experience and it is totally worth its cost.

Day 3: Valladolid

You can dedicate Day 3 in Valladolid , a charming colonial town in the heart of Yukatan Peninsula. Check out from your accommodation in Cancun, then travel to Valladolid. The town is located 2 hours west of Cancun and can be reached by taking ADO bus or local buses. Upon arrival, check into your chosen accommodation and rent a bike. Biking around Valladolid is a great option which allows you to enjoy the area at your own pace. Don’t forget to wear a helmet and follow the traffic rules around the central area.

Where to stay in Valladolid:

El Meson del Marques ( Calle 39 No. 203 x 40 y 42 | Centro Historico, Valladolid 97780, Mexico )

Casa Tia Micha ( Calle 39 Numero 197 Entre 38 y 40, Valladolid 97780, Mexico )

Hotel Posada San Juan ( Calle 40 x 49 | Parque de San Juan, Valladolid 97780, Mexico )

Hotel Zaci ( Calle 44 # 191 por 37 y 39, Valladolid, Mexico )

Casa Marlene ( Calle 39 Numero 193, Valladolid 97780, Mexico )

Day 4: Chichen Itza

On day 4, wake up early and join a guided tour to the enigmatic site of Chichen Itza , a UNESCO World Heritage site in the Yucatan Peninsula. By joining a guided tour , you will learn about how this great civilization developed some of the most complex architectural buildings, astronomical observatory structures, and impressive stone monoliths among other things. The highlight of this ancient site is the Temple of Kukulkan also known as El Castillo pyramid ruin. If you have extra money to spend, then avail a Chichen Itza tour with a Private Archaeologist. Some tours provide early access to Chichén Itzá, which will give you more time to marvel at the ancient structures without the crowds.

Day 5: Tulum

On your fifth day, take an all-inclusive day trip to breathtaking Tulum Ruins from Valladolid. Like the majority of Mayan cities, Tulum had a significant role during the Mayan Empire’s post-classic period. Because of its strategic location on a coast, Tulum served as a trading port. Your tour guide will tell about the site’s history and you will be introduced to some of Tulum’s Ancient architectural wonders. After your historic tour, do not miss to stop at the nearby beach and take an optional swim.

Day 6: Playa Del Carmen

On day 6, after having a filling breakfast, travel to Playa del Carmen . ADO runs 11 buses a day betweem Valladolid and Playa del Carmen ( more info can be found on ADO’s website ). The trip takes between 2 hours and 20 minutes to 3 hours and 10 minutes. Ine-way ticket cost about 8 USD.

Where to stay in Playa del Carmen:

Hotel Casa Ticul ( Quinta Avenida entre calle 38 y calle 40 Lote 8 | Zazil Ha, Playa del Carmen 77710, Mexico )

Secrets Capri Riviera Cancun ( Carretera Federal 387, Chetumal | Cancun Km. 299, Solidaridad, Playa del Carmen 77710, Mexico )

La Pasion Hotel Boutique by Bunik ( Calle 10 norte | Between Ave 15 & 20, Playa del Carmen 77710, Mexico )

La Tortuga Hotel & Spa ( 10th Avenue between 12th and 14th Street North, Playa del Carmen 77710, Mexico )

Excel Sense Playacar Boutique Hotel ( Paseo Xaman Ha Manzana 16 Lote 16 | Playa Car Fase 2, Playa del Carmen 77717, Mexico )

Depending on your time of arrival, you can either take it easy and soak up the atmosphere in Playa Del Carmen or you can begin your tour of its famous attractions. Check into your preferred accommodation and hit one of the top rated restaurants in the city.  Rest a bit then get set to explore some of the most famous attractions of Playa Del Carmen like Xcaret Eco Theme Park , Cenote Chaak Tun   ( swim in caves with crystal clear water) , Quinta Avenida and La Playa Xpuha .

Day 7: Playa Del Carmen

Today marks the end of your adventure in Mexico. Taking in to consideration that you most likely stayed out rather late the other night, you can start your last day in Playa Del Carmen at around 10 to 11 in the morning. If your flight is in the evening or late afternoon, explore the city for other attractions you might have missed. Fit in one last amazing lunch or dinner in the city. You could even squeeze in some souvenir shopping at Quinta Avenida ( 5th Avenue ) before you travel to the airport. Head to the airport in time to check in for your international flight home, opt to continue traveling independently in Mexico, or extend your stay in Playa Del Carmen. The decision is all yours!

This is the end of our 7-day suggested itinerary. You may extend your vacation for as long as you prefer or until you get to see all attractions that interest you. Take time to meet the locals, sample the best Mexican dishes or explore other parts of Mexico. If the pace gets too hectic, then reorder your sightseeing priorities. Happy travel!

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Cancun   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Jonathan Ross | Getty Images

18 Best Things To Do in Cancun

Cancún, Mexico, is known for its white sand beaches, its adventure tours and the many must-see attractions you can visit nearby. For example, this region of Mexico earns praise for cultural landmarks like Chichén Itzá and the underwater art museum

• All Things To Do

Chichén Itzá Chichén Itzá

U.S. News Insider Tip:  Visit El Mestizo, about 3.5 miles from Chichén Itzá, for an authentic Mexican lunch after touring the archeological site. I recommend ordering the pollo adobado, which remains one of my favorite chicken meals I've ever had abroad. –  Leilani Osmundson

Chichén Itzá is a large Mayan archaeological site and one of the most notable and recognized landmarks on the Yucatán peninsula. The site itself was originally a main hub of Mayan civilization and has since been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The focal point of the ruins is the pyramid-like El Castillo that was once used by Mayans as a temple to the god Kukulkan.

Isla Mujeres Isla Mujeres

U.S. News Insider Tip: For close proximity to Isla Mujeres during your beach vacation, consider staying at the Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach Cancún hotel, located on the tip of Zona Hotelera. The ferry to Isla Mujeres departs from Playa Caracol, which is located just a few minutes' walk from the hotel. – Holly D. Johnson

To escape the frantic beat of Cancún's nightlife and beaches, head to Isla Mujeres ("Island of Women"). There is little to do on this 5-mile island just a 30-minute ferry ride from Cancún, but travelers like it that way.

Playa Tortugas Playa Tortugas free

Widely considered a beach spot for locals, Playa Tortugas is known for its relaxed atmosphere and clean sands. The area also boasts impressive views and travelers report several places nearby to grab a meal or drink. From here, daily ferries also depart for Isla Mujeres .

Some travelers enjoy Tortugas so much that they choose the area over their own hotel's beach. Visitors appreciated that the public beach is free to enjoy and the water is calm and relaxing (a particular highlight for those traveling with children). Others warned of pushy salespeople and crowded sands. Playa Tortugas is located in Cancún just northwest of the Hotel Zone and accessible by bus or rental car. Umbrella and chair rentals are also available.

El Rey Ruins El Rey Ruins

While they may not have the awe factor of  Chichén Itzá , the El Rey Ruins have convenience on their side. Located in the heart of the Hotel Zone, these ruins are extremely accessible to visitors, and the site's small size makes it easy to see in a short time. Thought to be used as a royal retreat at one point, El Rey dates back to 1250.

But for many past visitors, the ruins themselves were not the primary attraction: people flock to El Rey to mingle with the hundreds of iguanas that have invaded the former Mayan town, saying the iguanas make for some unforgettable photo-ops. You can reach the site via a city bus, taxi or rental car.

Isla Contoy Isla Contoy

Isla Contoy National Park is a small island located off the coast of mainland Mexico, north of Cancún and Isla Mujeres . For the most part, this island is known for its stunning white sand beaches and spectacular nature views, and as a refuge for seabirds (more than 170 species) and other marine wildlife. The island is located alongside the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the second longest reef in the world, which makes it an ideal spot for snorkeling or diving to see coral, tropical fish or both in some of the clearest waters in all of the Caribbean.

The only way to visit Isla Contoy is through a boat tour company, but the trip can be worth it since the small destination only allows up to 200 visitors per day. While some boat tours that visit Isla Contoy include snorkeling, lunch or both, many also combine the visit with a few hours at Isla Mujeres. Either way, most boat tours that visit the island start at around $130 per adult, with many costing upwards of $150.

Cancún Golf Courses Cancún Golf Courses

With tropical weather and luxury resorts luring tourists from around the globe, it's no surprise that a world-class golf scene has developed around Cancún. With numerous distinct options, the biggest issue facing golfers is where they should schedule a tee time.

One memorable range is the 18-hole Playa Mujeres Golf Club, which players describe as a satisfying mix of challenging and scenic. However, reviewers do note that the course is expensive to play if you're not a guest at the Dreams or Secrets resorts.

Avenida Kukulkan Avenida Kukulkan free

Even if you don't seek out Avenida Kukulkan, you'll likely cross its path at least once during your Cancún vacation. That's because Avenida Kukulkan is Cancún's main artery, stretching from downtown through the hotel zone and running south toward the airport. The avenue is lined with pathways and an endless number of shops and eateries, along with hotels and resorts. If you're not strolling along the avenue, you'll likely be riding the bus along it since this is the main route for the buses most frequently used by tourists.

Recent travelers described Avenida Kukulkan as a safe, well-maintained and well-lit, place to walk or jog. In fact, the street is a great place to get in some exercise on your vacation since there are ample sidewalks the whole route. Still, some travelers say there isn't much to do here other than get from one place to another or see the towering hotels that occupy the area.

Playa Delfines Playa Delfines free

If you're tired of the standard beaches along the Hotel Zone, try heading to Playa Delfines, which is a largely undeveloped ribbon of sand located near the El Rey ruins . Likewise, the beach often lacks the heavy crowds found elsewhere throughout the Hotel Zone. This is also where you'll find the colorful "Cancún" sign featured on many of the city's postcards and brochures.

Travelers regard Playa Delfines as the quintessential escapist's beach as there is very little in terms of umbrellas or shade and few vendors hawking goods or services. Just be mindful of heavy currents and riptides, since the beach is known for its rough waters.

Avenida Tulum Avenida Tulum free

While Avenida Kukulkan provides the primary artery for Cancún's Hotel Zone, Avenida Tulum serves as the main thoroughfare through the mainland portion of Cancún. The boulevard cuts straight through downtown, providing an excellent avenue for people-watching and exploring. Between restaurants, hotels and other stores, visitors will find an assortment of landmarks along the avenue, including two well-known and oft-photographed statues, the Monumento a la Historia de México and the Fuente del Ceviche. Additionally, Palacio Municipal, headquarters of the municipal government, sits along Avenida Tulum and is sandwiched between a public park and a sculpture garden.

Past travelers enjoyed strolling around Palacio Municipal and the surrounding streets, which offers a unique and much less touristy atmosphere from Cancún's Hotel Zone. Many also rave about the affordable shopping here, as well as the inexpensive places to grab a bite to eat.

Playa Marlin Playa Marlin free

Situated in the Hotel Zone about a 5-minute walk from the Kukulkan Plaza shopping mall, Playa Marlin offers a broad stretch of sugar white sand. There's also lifeguards and beach supplies, such as chairs and umbrellas, for rent.

Recent travelers said that Playa Marlin is a beautiful public beach, perfect for those who aren't staying at a beachside resort . Still, some warn of powerful waves and strong undertow. Though the waters can be too rough for swimming, they're great for water sports like parasailing.

Nichupté Lagoon Nichupté Lagoon

Nichupté Lagoon is a vast tropical paradise that's located in between mainland Cancún and the strip of land that makes up the hotel zone. This region has become a natural reserve for the mangrove ecosystem, and it is made up of seven different lakes.

Not only is Nichupté Lagoon popular for fishing, but it sees a range of visitors that participate in activities like kayaking, canoeing and underwater activities like snorkeling throughout the year. The lagoon is also popular for its wildlife tours, which let eager visitors check out local animals like seabirds, migratory birds and crocodiles.

Museo Maya de Cancún Museo Maya de Cancún

Museo Maya de Cancún houses archeological pieces from significant historic sites across Mexico. Within its exhibit halls, the museum displays a range of archeological artifacts, many of which were found at Chichén Itzá , Palenque and Comalcalco. In addition to its memorable artifacts, Museo Maya de Cancún's architecture proves impressive. It boasts floor-to-ceiling, hurricane-resistant glass windows – a necessary design element following the original anthropology museum's closure in 2004 due to hurricane damage.

Past visitors appreciated the archeological site adjacent to the museum, which offers walking trails to explore. They also recommended visiting the museum on a rainy day, as most of Cancún's alternative attractions are outdoors. Many also remarked that some, but not all, of the information shared within the museum was offered in both English and Spanish.

El Parque de las Palapas El Parque de las Palapas free

This small plaza sits in downtown Cancún and blurs the lines between a local and tourist hot spot. Fans of street food will appreciate the assortment of vendors that line the park and offer delicious Mexican dishes. Past visitors praise the readily available churros and marquesitas (a crepe-like dessert). If you enjoy live music, the area also boasts a stage for performances, which generally occur on Friday evenings.

El Parque de las Palapas sits in downtown Cancún, roughly 6 miles west of the northern end of the Hotel Zone. The plaza's position – a block off Avenida Tulum – makes it easily accessible for anyone staying in or exploring the downtown area.    

Museo Subacuático de Arte (MUSA) Museo Subacuático de Arte (MUSA)

Unlike a traditional museum, Museo Subacuático de Arte (Underwater Museum of Art) is composed of concrete structures spread across the seafloor. The underwater museum sits somewhere between Isla Mujeres and the Hotel Zone and is divided into three areas: Manchones, Punta Nizuc and Punta Sam. The more than 470 sculptures found within Manchones are only accessible via scuba diving. Punta Nizuc houses 33 sculptures, which travelers can see while snorkeling in the area. The nine sculptures visible at Punta Sam sit in the shallowest water. Travelers who'd prefer to stay on land can swing by the MUSA's small gallery near downtown Cancún.

In general, past travelers praised the unique experience. Many reviewers also agreed the trip to the underwater museum is well worth it to see the colorful fish and the lifelike statues firsthand. Others were disappointed that they didn't see more statues during boat and snorkel trips.

Xavage Park by Xcaret Xavage Park by Xcaret

Xavage Park by Xcaret is a thrill park that offers activities the entire family can enjoy. Basic admission includes a ropes course, the chance to go kayaking and access to the park's splash zone. Meanwhile, the more robust package includes whitewater rafting, a jet boat ride, a ropes course, monster truck rides, zip lines, kayaking and splash zone access. Both packages include snacks, a buffet meal and nonalcoholic drinks. Note that some age and height restrictions apply to these activities, such as the fact that drivers must be at least 5.2 feet (and passengers must be 4 feet tall) to ride in the monster truck. Children younger than 12 but taller than 4.5 feet must be able to verify their age with a photo ID.

Past visitors seem to agree the park is clean and well run. Most say they had a great time and stayed active while enjoying the weather and scenery. Reviewers also said the food included in the package was tasty. 

La Isla Shopping Village La Isla Shopping Village free

Travelers in search of a little retail therapy will appreciate the assortment of storefronts in La Isla Shopping Village, including options like Abercrombie & Fitch, Prada and Studio F. True to its name, the open-air shopping area is separated from the rest of Cancún's Hotel Zone by a small canal. It is also located just north of Playa Marlín .

Past visitors were delighted by the mall's offerings, which include a Ferris wheel and an interactive aquarium that hosts regular dolphin shows, in addition to numerous food options. Along with a selection of assorted eateries, the shopping village also houses clothing and souvenir stores in its collection of retail options.

Xoximilco Xoximilco

Xoximilco claims to be a "floating fiesta in Cancún," but it's much more than that. This Mexican theme park aims to explore and celebrate local culture through food, music and games. Visitors get the opportunity to learn and experience Mexican traditions and folklore throughout each visit. Essentially, Xoximilco is a cultural experience that includes a boat ride plus dinner and entertainment.

A ticket to Xoximilco comes with a range of included amenities and activities, such as a gondola ride through festive canals, a Mexican dinner and culinary experience, an open bar, a range of live music performances and a personal guide. 

Coco Bongo Cancun Coco Bongo Cancun

Considered  the  spot for nightlife in Cancún, Coco Bongo isn't your traditional, DJ-controlled nightclub. Instead, thousands of travelers pack the house to witness nonstop performances from acrobats, conga lines, live bands and musician impersonators. A typical night at Coco Bongo involves projected videos, balloons, soap bubbles and confetti.

While Coco Bongo is a nonstop amalgam of cocktails and dancers, you can also dance the night away on the club's dance floor. If you're seeking some stage antics and endless performances, that's another reason Coco Bongo is definitely worth a try. Most travelers say that they had a great night at Coco Bongo, even if their seats offered poor views, there were long lines for drinks and the tickets were expensive.

Explore More of Cancun

Best Hotels

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The Ideal Cancun Itinerary for 3 / 4 / 5 / 7 Days

By: Author Stefania Guglielmi

Posted on Last updated: October 8, 2024

Categories Mexico , North America

Are you planning your Cancun itinerary? You’re in luck, because you’ve just found the ultimate itinerary guide to the destination, whether you’re staying there for 3, 4, 5, or 7 days. Check it out!

Cancun is a vibrant, bustling city that combines city life with the most dreamy beaches and paradisiac resorts.

With so many attractions to offer, and aiming to cater to all sorts of travelers, Cancun is definitely Riviera Maya’s hot spot . It’s probably already in your Yucatan road trip plan!

And while a couple of days might be enough to check out the main landmarks in town , you could easily spend a whole week there. Chilling at the beach, swimming in the cenotes, and visiting nearby locations are a few of the wonderful activities to enjoy.

Over the last few years , I’ve spent a good amount of time in Cancun . Every time I visit Tulum or Yucatan, I always fly in or out of the country from Cancun Airport. It only makes sense to spend a few days here and make the most of its attractions!

Whether you plan to stay for a long weekend, 4, 5, or 7 days, this Cancun itinerary will help you plan your travel schedule . Find astounding locations to visit, and discover the best nightlife in town (among plenty other things!) below.

Table of Contents

HOW TO GET TO CANCUN FROM CANCUN AIRPORT

There are various ways you can make the journey from Cancun International Airport to Cancun. The best transfer option will actually depend on your budget and priorities .

I’ve listed below all the possible alternatives. You can choose the one that suits your travel necessities best!

▶️ The most convenient option is pre-booking a private transfer . Your English-speaking driver will be waiting for you at the airport’s arrival area. They’ll lead you to a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle where you’ll settle for the ride.

You’ll then be driven to your hotel in either Downtown Cancun or the Hotel Zone. We personally used this company multiple times and always had a great experience – 5-star service!

The private transfer to Cancun costs $44 one-way, and $85 if you book round trip. The price is the same for groups starting at 3 participants, making it all the more convenient if you’re with more people. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

▶️ If you’re traveling on a budget, the shared shuttle is a fantastic alternative. It takes slightly longer than the private transfer as it will be dropping off other passengers along the way.

However, it takes you to your hotel’s front door at a more affordable price. The shuttle is particularly convenient for solo travelers.

The one-way trip to Cancun costs $12 per person. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

▶️ If you plan on going on day trips from Cancun and driving around the Yucatan peninsula, you might as well rent your car at the airport and drive to Cancun .

Both Downtown Cancun and Zona Hotelera are 14 miles north of the airport, and the drive takes a little less than 30 minutes. 

Renting a car in Mexico, though, is a little tricky , especially because of the scams you’re likely to encounter. Most car rentals will try to charge you extra money.

In most cases, it’s for damages or scratches that may have already been in the vehicle when you rented it.

That’s why is very important to take pictures of the car as soon as you get it , in case it’s already slightly damaged and you need proof that it isn’t on you. 

To avoid this kind of situation, I recommend booking your car online ahead of time . That’s what I do! I use Discover Cars to compare prices and make sure I’m getting the best deal. ➥ COMPARE PRICES HERE

Discover Cars is an online booking service that offers a wide range of rental options from various agencies in Cancun. This makes it easier to find a rental car that suits your budget and needs. I especially like their cancellation policy. With Discover Cars, you can typically cancel your booking for free up to 48 hours before the pickup time. This is a much more generous cancelation policy than most other platforms. It’s always important, however, to read the specific terms and conditions of your rental agreement. Policies can vary based on the rental company and the rate you choose.

SAVE MONEY WITH THE GO CITY CANCUN PASS

To save money when exploring Cancun, I recommend getting the Go City Cancun Pass . You can choose between the Explorer and the All Inclusive Pass depending on your interests. 

The Explorer Pass lasts 60 days and allows you to visit the number of attractions you desire (either 3, 4, 5, 7, or 10).

The All-Inclusive Pass , on the other hand, enables you to visit as many attractions as you can manage in a certain amount of days, from 1 to 5 days or 7 days. 

Depending on how many attractions you want to check out, the pass will help you save a lot of money . Each individual entry ticket is more expensive when purchased separately than it is with the pass. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

THE IDEAL CANCUN ITINERARY

After traveling to Cancun multiple times, I created this itinerary in a way that makes sense no matter if you’re visiting Cancun for 3, 4, 5, or 7 days .

If you’re in Cancun for 7 days, simply follow the complete itinerary . Of course, feel free to skip any attractions you’re not interested in, or switch the attractions based on your interests and schedule.

For example, you might visit Cancun for 5 days but you prefer to visit Xcaret (that is not in the 5-day itinerary) rather than the cenotes in Cancun. Remember that this is just a sample itinerary!

Also, some people might think this is too packed and want to spend more days lounging at the beach or by the pool. This is perfectly fine!

In fact, you’d probably have a great time by just spending most of your time at your resort. It all comes down to personal interests – some people like to be on the go all the time, while others just want to chill.

So, without further ado, let’s get started!

Traveling to Mexico is quite safe, but you should always get travel insurance for your trips… just in case! As we all know after the last couple of years, unexpected things can happen and you want to be covered when you need it the most. I’ve personally had to use my insurance multiple times while traveling! I recommend SafetyWing , which covers you in 185 countries and is affordable. Prices start at 8 USD for one week.

3 Days in Cancun Itinerary

If you’re embarking on a 3 day trip to Cancun , make the most of it by following this short itinerary.

Day 1: Relax at Your Hotel

The first day you arrive in Cancun, you’ll probably want to chill at your hotel . Especially if you’re staying in a resort with many amenities!

Most hotels in Cancun feature a swimming pool with a bar , a spa, attractions for young guests, and a gym. Some even boast children’s clubs and live entertainment. Relaxing and enjoying the hotel’s facilities is also part of the experience.

Make sure to chill and save your energy for your second-day adventures , as you’ll be going on a day trip!

Day 2: Head to Isla Mujeres

Isla Mujeres is a paradisiac island off the coast of Cancun with dreamy beaches, a fun downtown, and Mayan Archeological Site.

The island boasts several miles of perfect white sand and crystal clear water that will surely keep you glued to the beach. Make sure to rent a golf cart and explore the other parts of the island as well, though!

There’s fantastic street art and plenty of craft shops in Isla Mujeres. There’s also a pirate’s hacienda, a Natural Reef Park, and an underwater museum where you can snorkel or dive in.

You also can’t skip Ixchel, a Mayan temple built to honor the goddess of fertility . Isla Mujeres actually means Women Island , and the name is believed to have been inspired by the goddess Ixchel.

Visiting the islands is one of the best things to do in Cancun.

➤ This Isla Mujeres Catamaran Tour with Snorkel, Open Bar and Transportation from Hotel is a full-day sailing excursion. Besides some free time to explore, you’ll go snorkeling in prime locations around the island. Back onboard, make the most of the catamaran’s open bar! ➥ BOOK IT HERE

➤ You can take your boat trip to the next level by booking a Luxury Catamaran and Snorkel with Lunch and Open Bar, and Visit to Isla Mujeres . You’ll stop at fantastic snorkeling spots, visit the island, and enjoy delicious food and drinks onboard. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

If you want to visit on your own, you can check my post about getting from Cancun to Isla Mujeres .

At night, back in Cancun, go partying at Coco Bongo , a Cancun classic. Coco Bongo is the most popular nightclub in the city, but it’s not just a regular club.

There is a spectacular show every night that features flying acrobats, dancers, and very talented artists . That’s besides bars and great music to dance to! It’s said to be a Vegas show and the Cinco de Mayo festivities, all rolled into one.

The venue accommodates 1,800 people, but tickets sell out fast, so I’d recommend buying yours in advance. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

If that doesn’t sound like your kind of night, but you’d still like to go clubbing , some great alternatives are:

• Mandala Cancun
• The City Cancun

On the other hand, you might be hoping for a more relaxing evening in Cancun. Dinner and drinks are a great way to end a jam-packed day, and you’ll find countless options in the Cancun Hotel Zone.

My personal recommendations include these:

• Taco & Tequila , where you’ll find the most traditional food + drink combination in Cancun, Mexico.
• Casa Rolandi for Italian cuisine.
• Nicoletta is another great Italian restaurant.
• Harry’s Prime Steakhouse for meat lovers.

Day 3: Beach Day in Cancun

On the last day of your 3 day Cancun itinerary you’ll get to relax at the beach . Cancun is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the area, and there are many gorgeous strips of sand and turquoise waters to choose from.

While the list of white sand beaches in Cancun is long, number one is undoubtedly Playa Delfines .

This spectacular beach features shallow turquoise waters, which makes it ideal for families. It also boasts the customary powdery white sand and offers free palapas to its visitors.

Playa Delfines is far from the resorts that act as a backdrop to most Cancun beaches , another reason why it’s considered the most beautiful.

Another amazing beach in Cancun is Playa Forum on the northern end of Cancun Hotel Zone. There’s also Playa Pez Volador , surrounded by lush vegetation, Playa Tortugas (Turtle Beach), and Playa Chac Mool .

At most Cancun beaches you can also practice watersports , rent sunbeds to sunbathe or nap by the sea, get drinks and food from the beach bars , and snorkel.

After a day under the sun, get ready to enjoy dinner and a magnificent show to end your 3 days in Cancun trip on a great note: Joya .

Joya is a Cirque du Soleil experience that offers fine dining in a stunning setting in the jungle, while you marvel at the hypnotic show.

Joya presents a beautiful story that showcases the heritage and history of Mexico. It features incredibly talented artists and amazing visuals. ➥ BUY YOUR TICKETS HERE

4 Days in Cancun Itinerary

Follow the activities above for your first 3 days , and visit Chichen Itza on the last day of your 4 day Cancun itinerary.

Day 4: Visit Chichen Itza

Chichen Itza is Mexico’s most visited attraction . The archaeological site of Chichen Itza is around 1,500 years old. It held incredible importance to the Mayan civilization, considered one of the biggest cities in pre-Hispanic America .

These Mayan ruins feature many structures , among which the Kukulcan Pyramid stands out. They provide great insight into the Mayans’ beliefs and knowledge.

I highly recommend visiting the ancient ruins as part of your Cancun 4 day itinerary. It’s one of the most meaningful historical sites on the continent!

Before you visit, make sure you read my post about the most incredible fun facts about Chichen Itza . You’ll get to understand the site more deeply – and have fun in it!

Chichen Itza is about 124 miles from Cancun , and the drive there takes 2.5 hours. Since you’re only going on a day trip, I suggest booking a tour .

You’ll have both transfers covered, plus a guided tour of the ruins and food. Below are the best options.

➤ The Chichen Itza, Cenote and Valladolid All-Inclusive Tour is a full-day tour. It includes a visit to Chichen Itza with a knowledgeable guide, a swim in a nearby cenote, and some time in the charming town of Valladolid.

You’ll also enjoy a buffet meal, and benefit from hotel pick-up and drop-off. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

➤ This Chichen Itza Private Tour includes skip-the-line tickets, as well as a guided visit of the ruins. You’ll have a private guide, and spend time swimming in a sacred cenote. You’ll also swim in a cenote, and visit the ruins of Ek Balam, another fantastic Mayan city. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

➤ This Chichen Itza Private Tour includes skip-the-line tickets, as well as a guided visit of the ruins with your private guide, and some time to swim and cool off at a sacred cenote. You’ll also visit the town of Valladolid, and enjoy the snacks and beverages provided. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

If you want to plan the trip on your own, I have a guide about visiting Chichen Itza from Cancun that you should check out!

That’s a wrap for this Cancun Itinerary (4 days) , which should enable you to discover some of the main attractions and the region around town.

5 Days in Cancun

Follow the itinerary above for your first 4 days. Then, prepare for a fifth day full of adrenaline to end your 5 day trip to Cancun.

Day 5: Cenotes in Cancun and Jungle Adventure

Cenotes are one of the most beautiful features of the Yucatan Peninsula . They are natural sinkholes formed thousands of years ago. They are fed by underground rivers, offering cool, fresh water in which to swim and snorkel.

There are many cenotes near Cancun , and you should definitely visit a few of them if you’re staying in Cancun for 5 days. I’ve written a whole post about the best Cancun cenote tours , so if you have time, check it out!

But how about you combine a visit to the cenotes with some jungle adventure? The amount of eco and adventure parks in Cancun make it a great destination to enjoy a thrilling day!

Most experiences combine the excitement with some downtime cooling off at the cenotes . Below are the best tours that offer you both. Check them out!

➤ The Tour Cenotes Oasis Maya by Xcaret from Cancún is a full-day trip that takes you into the jungle. There you’ll kayak in underground rivers, swim in the cenotes, and snorkel.

You’ll also rappel down a rock wall into a cenote. Discover the mythical tales that surround the cenotes, and enjoy a picnic lunch. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

➤ This ATV Adventure,Interactive Bridges, Ziplines, Cenote& Free Lunch takes place in Extreme Adventure Eco Park. You’ll get to drive an ATV on mud roads, soar above the jungle on the zipline course, and then cool off in a wonderful cenote.

The tour includes refreshments and hotel roundtrip transportation, and it’s family-friendly. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

➤ The Selvatica Adventure Park: Ziplines and Cenote Tour from Cancun is a great half-day activity. You’ll enjoy the 10 different ziplines, including a zipline coaster and Aquazip, and finish your trip cooling off in a beautiful cenote. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

It’s the last night of your Cancun itinerary (5 days), and I suggest that you spend it in Playa del Carmen . Playa is renowned for its nightlife, and it will provide a nice change from Cancun’s night scene.

While there’s also another Coco Bongo in the city , whose party atmosphere is said to put Vegas to shame, you can have a great time just strolling along 5th Avenue.

This main street in Playa del Carmen features a great number of bars, restaurants, and shops, and at night it becomes even livelier . You’ll see street performers, street food stalls with all sorts of dishes, and a lot of movement, music, and smells. 

You can also go to one of the beach or rooftop bars for a few drinks, and have dinner at Zitla , Porfirio’s , or Harry’s . If you’re up to partying, Coco Bongo and Mandala are your best options. 

This 5 days in Cancun itinerary combines nature , adrenaline , relaxation , and vibrant nightlife . You truly enjoy the most of what the city has to offer! If you’re lucky enough to spend a whole week in Cancun, continue reading.

7 Days in Cancun

Wondering what to do in Cancun for 7 days?! Easy. First of all, follow the guide above to plan your first 5 days in the city.

Then, read on to discover what other activities you can enjoy when organizing a Cancun 1 week itinerary.

Day 6: Day Trip to Tulum

On day 6 of your Cancun itinerary for 7 days, I recommend going on a day trip to Tulum . Tulum is a charming, boho-chic town south of Cancun. It boasts stunning beaches, one of the most spectacular Mayan ruins you’ll see, and a great vibe. 

Among the attractions you can’t miss are the Tulum Ruins , perched on a clifftop with stunning views over the sea. You should also check out the gorgeous Tulum beach , and visit the cenotes that surround Tulum . They are some of the best in the peninsula! 

There are a few ways you can organize your Cancun to Tulum day trip , either taking public transportation, driving, or going on a tour.

The last option is fantastic if you don’t rent a car and want to skip the planning for both the transfers and the activities. 

➤ This Viator Exclusive: Tulum Ruins, Reef Snorkeling, Cenote and Caves lasts a full day. It takes you on a guided visit of the Tulum Ruins, as well as snorkeling on the reef. End the day cooling off in a cenote.

All entrance fees and a buffet lunch are included. ➥ BOOK IT HERE  

➤ The Tulum Ruins Visit and Swim in a Cenote Guided Tour is a full-day trip. You’ll enjoy a tour around the Tulum Ruins with a knowledgeable guide, and then visit two beautiful cenotes to cool off and swim.

All transfers are covered, as well as the ruins’ entrance fee. ➥ BOOK IT HERE  

➤ This Tulum, Coba, Cenote & Playa del Carmen with Buffet Lunch covers a great number of sites in a single day. You’ll visit both Tulum and Coba Ruins with a guide, as well as relax in a spectacular cenote and wander around Playa del Carmen.

A buffet lunch and all entrance fees are included. ➥ BOOK IT HERE  

Day 7: Xcaret or Xplor or Rio Secreto

This Cancun Itinerary (7 days) finishes with a visit to one of the spectacular adventure parks in the area.

▶️ Xcaret is a beautiful eco theme park that boasts dozens of thrilling activities , taking advantage of its natural wonders. Situated in the jungle, it offers hikes, shows, cenotes to swim in, underground rivers, and even Mayan ruins. 

At nighttime, it showcases its best trait: the Xcaret Show Espectacular . This astounding performance tells the history of Mexico with music, lights, and actors. 

➤ This Priority Access: Xcaret Day Trip+ Night Show+ Transportation *Official Product* is the perfect way to visit. You’ll make use of all the activities, equipment, and hammocks to rest.

Enjoy the fantastic night show, and if you upgrade your ticket there’s also a buffet lunch with fruit. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

➤ Driving there? Get the Xcaret Plus Admission to gain access to the park, use of all its facilities, fre eparking, and a buffet lunch. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

▶️ A fun alternative is Xplor, another adventure park situated near Xcaret. It also offers adventure activities that go from ATVing to ziplining , swimming in underground rivers, and relaxing in a cenote. 

➤ This Xplor Adventure Park Tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, as well as priority access to Xplor to enjoy all the activities on offer. The ticket includes a buffet lunch, beverages, lockers, and equipment. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

➤ If you’d rather drive there, get the Xplor Admission ahead of time. It includes free parking, access to all the activities and rest areas, a buffet lunch, and soft drinks. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

▶️ You can otherwise take a trip to Rio Secreto , another gem in the Riviera Maya. Rio Secreto, which translates to Secret River, is an underground river. It boasts so many stalagmites and stalactites that has been given the nickname crystal museum .

When visiting, you’ll get to swim in the river marveling at your surroundings and meeting the small animals that inhabit it.  

➤ The Rio Secreto Underground River Tour with Crystal Caves grants you access to the site. There you’ll explore a network of underground rivers with a professional guide. Discover the labyrinths and stalactites, and cap off the trip with lunch. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

▶️ Another top adventure park is Xavage . This is possibly the best attraction to enjoy thrilling watersports! It features canals where you can kayak , jet boat excursions , and white water rapids.

Besides, you’ll find a zipline , a rope circuit , and a Splash Zone for children.

➤ Get the Priority Access: XAVAGE with Transportation *Official Product* to visit. It includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, as well as entrance to Xacage and use of all the activities and rest areas. After the adventures, refuel with a tasty lunch. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

➤ If you don’t need the transfers, get the Xavage Admission directly. It includes entrance to the park, all the activities and equipment, and a delicious buffet lunch. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

You got to the end of the perfect Cancun 7 day itinerary! With it, you’ll be able to plan a fantastic vacation in the city and its surroundings.

Feel free to adapt the itineraries to your own fancy and interests, and make sure to enjoy yourself. Cancun is a gorgeous destination, and I’m sure you’ll have a great time , regardless of how many days you spend there!

WHERE TO STAY IN CANCUN

All-Inclusive Resort : Wyndham Alltra Cancun – This All-Inclusive Resort is situated right on the beach. It features a fitness center, a massive swimming pool, a restaurant & bar, and a spa. There are also family rooms, a games room, and a children’s playground. Breakfast in the room is available as well.

Luxury Hotel : Hyatt Zilara Cancun – This 5-star hotel boasts astounding views of the sea, besides providing great amenities to guests. There are personal trainers at the gym, a pool, a private beach, and a tennis court. Plenty of activities can be enjoyed; there is enough to keep you entertained the whole of your stay! 

Boutique Hotel : Casa Tortugas Boutique Suite – The suites are equipped with a seating area, a kitchen, and a fully equipped bathroom. There’s a swimming pool overlooking the sea, and a sun terrace with loungers. The hotel is very close to restaurants, bars, and the beach. 

On a Budget : Bed and Breakfast Pecari – This B&B offers cozy and very comfortable rooms with A/C and a private bathroom. Some rooms feature a balcony, and all guests have free parking, breakfast, and access to the outdoor pool. 

Hostel : Mayan Monkey Cancun – This fabulous hostel offers both dorms and private rooms, as well as an outdoor pool, a shared kitchen, a bar, and a restaurant. There are also sun loungers and bike rentals, besides events that make it very easy to meet other travelers. 

CANCUN ITINERARY FAQ

How many days in Cancun you should plan will depend on your interests, but I’d say 3 to 5 days is the perfect amount of time. However, I’d recommend planning a trip to Cancun for a full week if you also want to go on day trips.

Yes, 7 days is definitely enough time to explore Cancun and also go on day trips to some other cities in the Riviera Maya. This itinerary for Cancun should help you plan your perfect 7 days in the city!

The cost of your trip will depend entirely on the type of trip you embark on, and how long you stay there. If you’re traveling on a budget, one week in Cancun can cost you around $600 including lodging, food, and some tours/activities. If you decide to go on luxury, the trip for two can cost well over $2500.

If you’re looking to spend a long weekend in Cancun, you’ll be able to discover some of the city’s gems, enjoy the nightlife, and relax by the beach. I’ve written this Cancun 3 day itinerary which will help you plan a fantastic trip there!

A perfect Cancun itinerary 5 days includes chilling at the stunning beaches, visiting Chichen Itza, exploring Isla Mujeres, and swimming in the cenotes.

The best months to visit Cancun weatherwise are December through March. It’s also the perfect season to see whales!

Looking forward to a holiday shopping spree! There are plenty of shops and local boutiques in the city, as well as a few renowned shopping malls. These include La Isla Shopping Village, Marina Puerto Cancun, and Plaza Las Americas.

Stefania Guglielmi is the founder of Every Steph. Originally from Bologna, Italy, she's been traveling full-time since 2016 and has visited over 50 countries across 6 continents. She believes sustainable travel and luxury travel can go hand in hand and has been advocating for responsible tourism since 2014. Stefania's advice and travel experiences have been featured in important publications such as Business Insider, Refinery29, and Yahoo Money.

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Cancun essentials: Everything you need to plan the perfect Mexico getaway

For decades, Cancun, on Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula in the southeast of the country, has been a go-to for Americans looking for a quick beach getaway. It's just a two- to three-hour flight from cities like Atlanta, Houston, St. Louis and Washington, D.C. Flights have traditionally been inexpensive and, in this age of COVID-19, Mexico has made it easy to visit. Mexico is one of TPG's picks for where to travel right now. There are no restrictions or requirements to enter Mexico at this time. You will, however, need a negative COVID-19 test to re-enter the U.S. , but most resorts in Cancun can assist you with this.

There are two things that typify Cancun: the Caribbean Sea that laps its incredible white sand beaches and the party scene that's a fixture of many resorts, bars and clubs. Most travelers start with a visit to the ubiquitous Senor Frogs bar and grill chain and then work their way up to the city's classic nightclubs.

But, there is so much more to Cancun than its spring break scene. It's home to the world's second-longest coral reef, which means there are plenty of opportunities for snorkeling and scuba diving. Parasailing and fishing are other popular pastimes and there are some Mayan ruins, such as Zona Arqueologica El Rey, that you can see right in town.

Here's what you need to know to plan a trip to Cancun.

When to visit Cancun

December through April is peak season in this part of Mexico, but steer clear of March and April if you wish to avoid spring breakers. May through August brings warmer and more humid weather. You may encounter perfect weather from September through November, but it's the season for rain and hurricanes so keep that in mind as a possibility.

If you travel during hurricane season and your trip investment is hefty, consider buying trip insurance that covers named hurricanes. But if you want more flexibility to cancel your trip based on the threat of bad weather, purchase a policy with a cancel for any reason add-on .

How to get to Cancun

I know this is The Points Guy and we all love using miles and points for all our trips. However, it's usually quite easy to find very affordable airfare from U.S. gateways to Cancun. The above map shows nonstop, round-trip prices from a variety of cities to Cancun for dates from June through October. We're talking $173 round-trip from Miami, $181 round-trip from Denver and $245 round-trip from New York.

Before redeeming miles, check cash prices to see if it makes more sense to book your flights that way.

Cancun is a fantastic option for a special trip where you want to pull out all the stops because it is possible to fly there in style. Learn how to fly to Cancun in a lie-flat seat.

These are the U.S. gateways with service to Cancun International Airport (CUN). (Note that not all airlines have resumed routes from all gateways to Cancun. Check with your preferred airline to confirm the route has returned or when it's scheduled to resume.)

• Atlanta (ATL): Delta
• Austin (AUS): Southwest, Spirit
• Baltimore (BWI): Southwest, Spirit
• Boston (BOS): American Airlines, Delta, JetBlue
• Charlotte (CLT): American Airlines, VivaAerobus
• Chicago (MDW): Southwest
• Chicago (ORD): American Airlines, Frontier, Spirit
• Cincinnati (CVG): Delta, Frontier, VivaAerobus
• Cleveland (CLE): Frontier, Spirit
• Columbus (CMH): American Airlines
• Dallas (DFW): American Airlines, Spirit, Sun Country
• Denver (DEN): Frontier, Southwest, United Airlines
• Detroit (DTW): Delta, Spirit
• Durham (RDU): American Airlines, Delta
• Fort Lauderdale (FLL): JetBlue, Southwest, Spirit
• Houston (HOU): Southwest
• Houston (IAH): Spirit, United Airlines
• Indianapolis (IND): American Airlines, Frontier
• Kansas City (MCI): American Airlines, Frontier
• Los Angeles (LAX): Delta, Interjet, United Airlines
• Miami (MIA): American Airlines, Interjet, LATAM
• Minneapolis (MSP): Delta and Sun Country
• Nashville (BNA): Spirit, VivaAerobus
• Newark (EWR): Frontier, United Airlines, VivaAerobus
• New Orleans (MSY): Spirit
• New York (JFK): American Airlines, Interjet, JetBlue
• Orlando (MCO): Delta, JetBlue
• Phoenix (PHX): American Airlines
• Pittsburgh (PIT): Spirit
• Philadelphia (PHL): American Airlines, Frontier, Spirit
• Portland (PDX): Alaska Airlines
• Saint Louis (STL): American Airlines, Frontier
• Salt Lake City (SLC): Delta
• San Diego (SAN): Alaska Airlines
• San Francisco (SFO): United Airlines
• Seattle (SEA): Alaska Airlines, Delta
• Washington (IAD): United Airlines

Where to stay in Cancun

As you search for the perfect resort, understand that Cancun is divided into two areas: the Zona Hotelera and El Centro. The Hotel Zone is a long beachfront strip of resorts interspersed with restaurants, bars, nightclubs and shopping centers. When people think of Cancun, they are picturing this area and it's where you want to stay. El Centro is a downtown area.

For families, here are some particularly family-friendly resorts in Cancun .

If you're not sure if Cancun is right for you, check out TPG's favorite points hotels on the beach in Mexico .

Cancun all-inclusive resorts

• Armar House, All-Inclusive (Marriott)
• Breathless Riviera Cancun Resort & Spa, Ascend Collection: from 65,000 Choice points
• Hideaway at Royalton Riviera Cancun All-Inclusive Resort (Marriott)
• Hilton Cancun, an All-Inclusive Resort: opening soon
• Hyatt Zilara Cancun: from 25,000 Hyatt points
• Hyatt Ziva Cancun : from 25,000 Hyatt points
• Now Jade Riviera Cancun, Ascend Collection: from 25,000 Choice points
• Now Sapphire Riviera Cancun, Ascend Collection: from 25,000 Choice points
• Planet Hollywood Cancun All-Inclusive Beach Resort (Marriott)
• Planet Hollywood Adults Scene Cancun All-Inclusive Beach Resort - Adults Only (Marriott)
• Royalton CHIC Suites Cancun All-Inclusive Resort & Spa (Marriott)
• Royalton Riviera Cancun All-Inclusive Resort & Spa (Marriott)
• Secrets Riviera Cancun Resort & Spa, Ascend Hotel Collection: from 75,000 Choice points
• Zoetry Paraiso de la Bonita Riviera Maya, Ascend Collection: from 90,000 Choice points

Cancun resorts

• Canopy by Hilton Cancun La Isla: 35,000 to 80,000 Hilton points
• InterContinental Hotels Presidente Cancun Resort: from 30,000 IHG points
• JW Marriott Cancun Resort & Spa : from 40,000 Marriott points
• Marriott Cancun Resort: from 30,000 Marriott points
• Renaissance Cancun Resort & Marina: from 30,000 Marriott points
• The Ritz-Carlton, Cancun : from 40,000 Marriott points
• The Westin Lagunamar Ocean Resort Villas & Spa, Cancun: from 40,000 Marriott points
• The Westin Resort & Spa, Cancun: from 30,000 Marriott points
• Waldorf Astoria Cancun: opening soon

Riviera Maya resorts

Riviera Maya, another popular Mexican resort area, is just to the south of Cancun and encompasses destinations such as Playa del Carmen, Xcaret, Xel-Ha and Cozumel Island. It's about an hour's drive to Riviera Maya from Cancun and two hours to Cozumel.

• Acanto Playa del Carmen, Trademark Collection by Wyndham: from 15,000 Wyndham points
• Andaz Mayakoba Resort Riviera Maya : from 25,000 Hyatt points
• Cozumel Hotel & Resort, Trademark Collection by Wyndham: from 15,000 Wyndham points
• Grand Hyatt Playa del Carmen Resort : from 25,000 Hyatt points
• Hilton Playa del Carmen, an All-Inclusive Adult Only Resort: 46,000 to 80,000 Hilton points
• Hotel La Semilla, Playa del Carmen, a Member of Design Hotels: from 30,000 Marriott points
• InterContinental Hotels Presidente Cozumel Resort Spa: from 44,000 IHG points
• Secrets Aura Cozumel, Ascend Hotel Collection: from 35,000 Choice points
• Sunscape Sabor Cozumel, Ascend Hotel Collection: from 30,000 Choice points
• The Fives Downtown Hotel & Residences, Curio Collection by Hilton: 35,000 to 70,000 Hilton points
• The Westin Cozumel: from 30,000 Marriott points
• The Yucatan Resort Playa del Carmen, Tapestry Collection by Hilton: coming soon
• Thompson Playa del Carmen Main House: from 12,000 Hyatt points
• Thompson Playa del Carmen Beach House : from 20,000 Hyatt points
• Wyndham Garden Playa del Carmen: from 15,000 Wyndham points
• Viva Wyndham Azteca - All-Inclusive Resort: from 30,000 Wyndham points
• Viva Wyndham Maya - All-Inclusive Resort: from 30,000 Wyndham points

What to see and do

Sand, sun and sea are the main draws in Cancun and you can enjoy all three from the comfort of your resort. Most hotels in Cancun's Hotel Zone are beachfront with plenty of loungers, palapas or cabanas to choose from and they also have pools for when you're not in the mood for sand.

The world's second-longest coral reef is right offshore, so you can book snorkel or diving excursions -- or even just a sunset catamaran sailing if you'd prefer to stay topside.

If you do go diving, check out the Underwater Museum of Art (MUSA) at the National Marine Park of Cancun and Isla Mujeres. You can explore 500 sculptures in three galleries: Manchones Gallery, in Isla Mujeres, where the sculptures are 26 feet deep and Punta Nizuc Gallery and Punta Sam Gallery, both in Cancun, with sculptures at a depth of 3 feet.

Shop for Mexican handicrafts at Mercado 28, located downtown. Just be ready for aggressive sales tactics and know that negotiating price is expected. There are some good restaurants and street food in the area and it's also a good place to find tour operators if you're not satisfied with the options at your hotel. You can book everything from parasailing to horseback riding to trips to a local cenote (a sinkhole swimming hole).

For a bit of history, check out the Mayan Museum of Cancun and the Zona Arqueologica El Rey ruins.

Finally, for adrenaline junkies, Xavage by Xcaret offers white-water rafting, jet boat tours, ziplines, ropes courses and even a "monster truck" experience.

Safety in Mexico

The U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Consular Affairs has issued a Level 3: Reconsider Travel advisory for Mexico. You can read the COVID-19 health alert and the security alert pertaining to cartel violence in the country.

Despite the travel advisory, many Americans feel safe traveling to Cancun because it is a very defined resort area catering to tourists. Some visitors preferred to stay at their resort for the entirety of their stay. If you venture beyond your resort, take the same type of precautions you would at home. Be aware of your surroundings, know where you're going and how to get there, and avoid sketchy areas. Your hotel concierge can help you map out a plan to see the surrounding areas in a safe way.

Bottom line

Beach fans, divers and anyone that enjoys resort-style vacations will fall in love with Cancun and its affordability. Visitors tend to return year after year -- either to their favorite resort or trying a new spot on every trip. It's the perfect place to home base for day trips to visit Playa del Carmen, Xcaret or Cozumel as well.

• X (Twitter)

Cancun Itinerary – 3 Days to 1 Week in Cancun

Are you thinking about travelling to Cancun?

We love the Yucatan peninsula for its fantastic beaches , its Mayan ruins and its vibrant towns. No matter how much time you spend in Cancun, you have a lot of options for what to do. You might even have so many options that you have a hard time deciding what to choose.

That is why we have put together this very flexible itinerary for Cancun. We are going to cover the best places in the Yucatan peninsula, so you don’t miss out on the highlights. At the same time, there will be enough time to relax on a beach and enjoy your holidays.

Keep reading to find out how to spend your days in Mexico!

Want to save time when booking your trip? Then let us help you with these resources!

Best hotels in Cancun :

• Iberostar Selection Cancun (all-inclusive hotel with a private beach and multiple pools)
• Suites Malecon Cancun (mid-range; in the centre of Cancun, with a pool, a gym and panoramic views of the city and the lagoon)
• Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach Cancun (luxury; offers a private beach, six different restaurants and many pools)
• Bed and Breakfast Pecari (budget; includes breakfast and access to a pool)

Book your flight to Cancun by comparing the best deals on Skyscanner !

Join a tour to explore Cancun and Yucatan :

• Guided tour to Chichen Itza (see the famous Mayan ruins, swim in a cenote and visit Valladolid)
• Tulum adventure tour (discover the Mayan ruins of Tulum, snorkel at a reef and go for a swim in a cenote)
• Isla Mujeres sailing adventure (sailing tour to Isla Mujeres, including stops to snorkel and see the island)
• Jungle adventure (includes horseback riding, an off-road ATV experience, ziplining and much more)

Book your rental car on rentalcars.com .

Want to use public transport? Then get your bus tickets on Busbud .

Book your airport transfer ahead of time to ensure you have a good time from the first moment on.

Table of Contents

Cancun itinerary

No matter if you are on a 5-day trip to Cancun or you have one week in Mexico, this Yucatan itinerary will help you find out what to do.

We are going to start by including the highlights of the region in a 3-day itinerary for Cancun. Then, we add on one day at a time, so this itinerary works even for longer holidays.

Make sure to skip to the end afterwards to find out how to get around and where to stay in Cancun!

3 days in Cancun

Day 1 – relaxing at the beach.

Welcome to Mexico!

You have probably heard of Cancun’s fantastic beaches, so we suggest that you start your Yucatan vacation by relaxing on one.

Depending on where you come from, you might have had a long flight to arrive here. You might even be suffering from jetlag, so it’s a good idea to take it easy on your first day.

If you stay in a hotel with beach access, just grab a towel, walk down to the waterfront and enjoy your day. Grab a cocktail, dip your feet into the turquoise water and relax.

If not, don’t worry. Fortunately, you can find multiple public beaches in Cancun. Playa Delfines is the most famous one and definitely one of the best Yucatan beaches. Come here if you want to enjoy white sand and crystal clear water. Plus, you can take a picture of the Cancun sign on this beach!

Just be careful when you go in the water, as Playa Delfines is known for its strong currents.

Day 2 – Chichen Itza

The second day of this Cancun 3-day itinerary is dedicated to one of the highlights of Yucatan – Chichen Itza.

Chichen Itza is one of the best Yucatan ruins that you can visit. The main attraction in this complex is the giant pyramid, but there is so much more to see!

Make sure to stop by the ball court and learn more about the Mayan ball games. Did you know that the losing team was often sacrificed afterwards? The players were literally playing for their lives!

Today is also a great chance if you want to swim in a cenote in Yucatan. The Mayan people often used those sinkholes for sacrifices, but today, many are accessible for swimming and diving.

Next to Chichen Itza, you can find the Cenote Ik Kil, one of the most stunning cenotes in the area. The water is much colder than you might expect, but it’s perfect for cooling down on a hot day, and the views are fantastic.

If you’re going by bus or driving, you can easily add this cenote to your itinerary. If you’re joining a guided tour, make sure to book one that includes a visit to a cenote.

Which brings us to the possible options for making this trip. The first one is to go by public transport. You can take an ADO Bus from Cancun to Chichen Itza. As only limited buses drive this route every day, you will have to make sure to time your visit well.

You can book your tickets at the ADO bus terminal and also online. The ADO website is in Spanish, but you can also book your ticket on Busbud .

If you prefer having more flexibility and driving to Chichen Itza yourself, you need to rent a car. We recommend getting it on rentalcars.com , where you can easily get an overview of the cheapest available rental cars.

The last option is to join a guided tour from Cancun. Most tours offer hotel pick-ups and include a few more stops along the way. We highly recommend choosing one that lets you visit a cenote. Take a look at this tour , which receives excellent ratings and also includes stops in Valladolid and Cenote Saamal.

Day 3 – Isla Mujeres

How are you enjoying travelling Yucatan so far?

After relaxing at the beach and exploring Chichen Itza, it is now time to head to one of Mexico’s islands.

You can find Isla Mujeres just off the coast of Cancun, which makes it a very convenient day trip. The island is known for its fantastic beaches, laid-back atmosphere and for being small enough that you can quickly get around in a golf cart.

Start your day at Playa Norte, one of the best beaches on Isla Mujeres. If you want to, you could easily spend the whole day here.

From Playa Norte, head to the town centre. Here, you can find lots of shops, restaurants and cafes. It’s a great destination if you want to buy souvenirs, but it’s also perfect if you just want to enjoy a cold drink.

As we already mentioned, one of the best things to do in Isla Mujeres is to rent a golf cart and drive around the island. We recommend going to the southern tip of the island, where you can find some small Mayan ruins and enjoy the view.

Along the way, make sure to stop at La Tortugranja, where you can learn more about the turtles that live here. This turtle sanctuary protects turtle eggs and works in the conservation of many local turtle species.

To get to Isla Mujeres, you need to catch a ferry from Cancun. The port is called Puerto Juarez, and ferries regularly connect the island with the mainland. You can buy your ticket at the port, but if you prefer having them in advance, you can also get them online .

4 Days in Cancun

For a 4-day Cancun itinerary, we recommend that you follow the steps above and then head to Tulum on your last day.

The Mayan ruins in Tulum are famous for their location just next to the beach. They might not be as big as the pyramid in Chichen Itza, but they are a lot of fun to visit. Plus, despite its smaller size, Tulum was once an important ceremonial centre.

Make sure to take a towel and beach clothes. If the weather is nice, you can go for a quick swim in the sea, just next to the Mayan ruins.

Besides the archaeological site, Tulum has a few more sights that you should check out. First, you can also discover some fantastic beaches here. If you want to, you could head to the public beach and spend the rest of the day there.

You could also explore Tulum itself. The town is known for its hippie vibe, and this is a perfect opportunity to check it out yourself. You can also find delicious Mexican food in Tulum, so make sure to grab a bite before returning to Cancun.

5 days in Cancun

If you have five nights in Cancun, you’re lucky because today, you will see one of the best cities in the Yucatan peninsula. Merida is known for its colonial architecture and its many opportunities to experience the local culture.

The easiest way to get to Merida is by car. Buses take around four hours, and you can save a bit of time if you go by car. Plus, getting a rental car and going on a one-day Yucatan road trip offers you more flexibility.

In Merida, it’s best to start exploring the city at the Plaza Grande. Around this central square, you can already see lots of historic buildings. Plus, it’s a great place if you want to sit down and people watch for a while.

Next to the central square, you can find the Palacio de Gobierno, the government palace. If you go inside, you can discover murals depicting the history of Merida and the local Maya population. Make sure to go up to the first floor if you want to see all of them!

Merida is home to lots of museums, so now is your chance if you want to visit one of them. The Gran Museo del Mundo Maya de Merida, for example, will teach you everything you have ever wanted to know about the Maya civilisation.

If you get hungry, make sure to grab traditional Mexican food in one of the many restaurants. Merida is the perfect city if you want to try regional food from Yucatan.

6 days in Cancun

Isla cozumel.

Turning this itinerary into a Cancun itinerary for 6 days is very easy. Just follow the above days and then head to Isla Cozumel on your sixth day.

Isla Cozumel features some of the best beaches in Yucatan. The island is much bigger than Isla Mujeres, so you will need to rent a car to get around.

Once on the island, make sure to head to the southern tip of the island. You need to pay to enter the Punta Sur Eco Park, but it is well worth it.

Here, you can explore a mangrove forest, walk along eco trails and see some of the local flora and fauna. You are guaranteed to see many birds along the way, and you can learn more about the mangrove forest ecosystem.

The Punta Sur Eco Park is also home to a fantastic beach. You can easily spend the day here, relaxing in the sun and swimming in the turquoise water.

If you prefer to visit a public beach, head to Palancar Beach. The beach is great for relaxing, and it’s also pretty good for snorkelling. You need to bring your own snorkelling gear, but you have the chance of seeing fish in the water along the beach.

Last, you could consider joining a tour that takes you to the main snorkelling spots around the island. Check out this tour which includes a boat ride to three fantastic snorkelling spots, including El Cielo beach, famous for its starfish.

To get to Isla Cozumel, you first need to get to Playa del Carmen. If you already have a rental car , you can drive, but otherwise, you can consider taking an ADO bus . Take a taxi from the bus terminal to head to the ferry dock and then catch the ferry to Isla Cozumel .

7 Days in Cancun

Go on an adventure / playa del carmen.

If you are looking for a 1-week Yucatan itinerary, you should follow all of the days as mentioned above. For the last day, you have lots of different options and the choice is up to you.

Would you like to go shopping and explore a city? Then you should head to Playa del Carmen to check out La Quinta. This pedestrian street is lined by souvenir shops, stores selling artwork and cafes and restaurants.

Another option is to visit a museum, like the Frida Kahlo Museum, or head to the nearby Cenote Azul for a swim.

If you are not interested in Playa del Carmen, we recommend joining one of the many excellent tours you can find in Cancun.

You could go horseback riding, fly through the jungle on a zipline and much more on this adventure tour . Or you could search for whale sharks with this tour .

If you prefer a relaxing day, you could also head to Isla Mujeres on a sailing adventure. Even if you’ve visited the island already, this tour is mainly about the sailing adventure, so make sure to check it out !

Last, you also have the option of staying in Cancun for a relaxing day at the beach. Soaking up the sun and swimming in the crystal clear water is a great way to end your 7-day Cancun itinerary.

If you have more time

If you have more than just one week in Cancun, we have a few suggestions for you. There are lots of things to do in Yucatan which you can explore during your holidays.

One option is to not only stay in Cancun. A road trip across the peninsula is a great way to explore the region. You could spend a night or two in Merida and see the Mayan ruins of Uxmal. Chichen Itza is more famous, but we loved Uxmal just as much as it is much less touristy.

Another excellent option for an overnight stay outside Cancun is Isla Holbox. This island is famous for its fantastic beaches, its sandy streets and its colourful houses. Plus, you have the chance to see whale sharks in this area.

You could also head south from Cancun and explore the coast. From Cancun, you could head to Bacalar, a town known for the nearby Lagoon of Seven Colours. On a sunny day, the water in the lagoon shines in every shade of blue you can imagine.

If you have an additional week, why not come up with a Cancun to Belize itinerary? You can combine the highlights of our itinerary above with a visit to Bacalar and then head to Caye Caulker in Belize from there.

Make sure to check out our Belize itinerary to discover all of the other great places that the country has to offer!

Where to stay in Cancun

There are so many great options for where to stay in Cancun that booking your trip can easily feel overwhelming. Finding the best Cancun hotel depends on many factors, including your budget, whether or not you want to have direct access to the beach and what you want to get out of this trip.

Here are some options that you should check out:

All-inclusive : If you’re looking to stay at an all-inclusive resort with direct access to the beach, then check out the Iberostar Selection Cancun. This hotel offers a private beach, multiple pools and comfortable rooms. Plus, if you need a rental car for the day, you can rent it directly in the hotel. Click here to see the latest reviews and book your stay !

Luxury : Do you want to stay in an extraordinary hotel with excellent ratings, a private beach and a 40,000-square-foot spa? Then check out the Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach Cancun. You can choose from six different restaurants, relax by the pool or spend hours on the private beach. Check out availability and prices now !

Mid-range : All of the above hotels are located in the Cancun hotel zone, where you have access to a private beach. If you’re happy to stay in a different area and head to the public beach, you can find excellent mid-range hotels. The Suites Malecon Cancun, for example, offers panoramic views of the lagoon and the city. The hotel features a pool and a gym and is the perfect base for following our Cancun trip itinerary. Click here to see whether it is still available for your stay !

Budget : If you’re travelling to Cancun on a budget, you have multiple options. The Hostalito is great if you’re looking for a hostel where you can get a dorm bed. There’s a pool, a lounge and plenty of opportunities to meet other travellers. Or you could stay at the Bed and Breakfast Pecari, where you also have access to a pool. The rates include free breakfast, and the owner is lovely, so make sure to check it out !

For your honeymoon : You can easily use this post to put together your Cancun honeymoon itinerary if you combine the above activities with a fantastic hotel. Take a look at the Moon Palace Cancun and their honeymoon suite. You’ll have a double whirlpool tub in your room, plus access to 24-hours room service and a private beach lounge area. What else could you ask for? Click here to book your stay now!

How to get to Cancun

Even though you can find multiple airports in Yucatan, we highly recommend flying directly to Cancun.

As Cancun is a popular holiday destination, you can usually find good flight deals. The easiest way to ensure you don’t pay too much for your flight is by searching on a website like Skyscanner . Here, you can see all available options and find the website where your flight is the cheapest.

Click here to go to Skyscanner and search for your flights to Cancun now !

From the airport, you have multiple options for getting to your hotel.

The first one is to take a bus. ADO buses connect the airport with the city regularly and are a great option if you’re on a budget. You can even look up the timetable and book your ticket in English on Busbud .

The next option is to get a taxi. You will find many taxi drivers waiting at the airport. Be careful to agree on the rate before you get into the taxi, or insist on using the meter to avoid getting ripped off.

An easier option is to book your airport transfer ahead of time. You can easily book a transfer on Viator , and a driver will be waiting for you at the airport.

The last option is to get a rental car . This is great if you’re planning on driving around the Yucatan peninsula, but you need to double-check whether you can park your car at your hotel. Some hotels charge extra for parking, so look it up in advance to avoid unpleasant surprises.

Getting around Cancun and Yucatan

Whenever possible, we have mentioned methods of transport in our itinerary. Yucatan is surprisingly big, so getting around can be a bit tedious at times.

Within Cancun, you can either take public transport or use a taxi. When you want to leave the city, you have three options.

The easiest is to join a guided tour. We have a few examples of tours above that we think you might like, so make sure to check them out.

The other options are to either travel by bus or to rent a car . A car gives you considerably more flexibility, but as I mentioned above, you will need to make sure that you can park it at your hotel. It’s also more expensive than going by bus.

If you prefer to use public transport, ADO buses connect most major cities and towns on the Yucatan peninsula. If you speak some basic Spanish, you can look up the schedule and book your tickets on their website .

If you prefer an English website, then you can book your tickets on Busbud. Booking is very easy, and you have support in English if you need it. Click here to look into bus tickets now !

We hope you found this Yucatan itinerary useful. We loved travelling through Latin America and have a few more resources that help you plan your trip and inspire you for future travels. Make sure to check them out:

• Discover the best beaches in Mexico and Central America
• Head to Belize from Cancun – find out now how to get to Caye Caulker
• Extend your holidays and spend one week in Belize
• Love beaches? Then head to Utila, a Caribbean island in Honduras.

Until your next adventure!

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Ilona is a world traveller passionate about sharing her experiences and giving advice to fellow travellers. Having visited over 70 countries, she is always excited about her next trip.

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More About Cancun

Cancun is a major resort destination on the Yucatan Peninsula overlooking the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea. One visit and you'll understand why this stretch of white-sand beach transformed into the thriving resort destination you'll experience today. The hotel zone stretches along the coastline between the Nichupte Lagoon and the aquamarine waters of the Caribbean.

While most people connect Cancun to Spring Break, there is much more to this seaside resort community than a rowdy reputation. This region of Mexico is known for its extensive Mayan culture and artifacts. The Museo Maya de Cancun, located in the hotel zone, hosts more than 400 artifacts and an outdoor exhibit including original ruins among walking paths.

To the north is the community of Playa Mujeres, a sleepy resort area that has grown in recent years. Exquisite resorts are staking a claim along this area offering an alternative to the bustling hotel zone without sacrificing the beach experience.

To the south, stretching from Puerto Morelos to Tulum is the resort area known as Riviera Maya. For information on this area, please explore our Riviera Maya page.

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The Beach : 15 miles of beachfront stretches as far as you can see separating a lagoon from the stunning Caribbean.

Mayan Culture : The Museo Maya de Cancun and El Rey Archeological Zone for some local insight into the Mayan culture.

Nightlife : Bars, lounges, dance clubs, and more line the hotel zone offering ample entertainment options.

Shopping : For a break from the beach, take a stroll at La Isla Shopping Village and Plaza Kukulcán. If you are looking for local artisans, visit the markets in El Centro.

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Cancun Travel Guide

Last Updated: September 16, 2024

Cancun is synonymous with luxury, partying, spring breakers, resorts, and beautiful beaches. It’s often seen as an American playground and the city is a hub for expats and digital nomads in Mexico .

If I’m being honest, the main drag is very touristy and kind of terrible. It’s a good place to go for your stereotypical vacation but there’s not much more than that there. During spring break, college kids flock here to get drunk and tan so it’s best to avoid visiting then (unless you also want to partake in the rowdy festivities). This is a city that was built for tourists.

However, if you leave the main resort area of Cancun, you’ll find a city with friendly people, character, and amazing food. It’s real Mexico!

And, throughout the region, you’ll also find plenty of Mayan ruins and numerous cenotes.

Cancun has a lot more to it than just Senor Frogs, resorts, and drunk college kids, but you do have to go looking for it.

This travel guide to Cancun can help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your time in the gorgeous slice of Mexico!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• How to Stay Safe
• Where to Stay
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• How to Get Around
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Cancun

Click Here for City Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in cancun.

1. Explore Chichén Itzá

Chichén Itzá is a Mayan ruin dating back to 550 CE. It was home to an estimated 35,000 people – the most populous city in the Yucatan Peninsula. Historians believe the location was chosen due to its proximity to Xtoloc cenote, an underground freshwater source. Today, it is one of the largest (and most popular) Mayan archaeological sites in Mexico and one of the Wonders of the World. You can wander the UNESCO World Heritage Site’s ruins, including 5 square kilometers (1.9 square miles) of temples, intricately carved columns, tombs, and even ball courts. At the center of the ruins sits the famed El Castillo pyramid, a massive structure towering meters (98 feet). Entry is 571 MXN.

2. Explore the cenotes

In Cancun, you can find some of the world’s best underwater cenotes (natural pits or sinkholes that expose fresh groundwater) and cavern systems. The Yucatan Peninsula is famous for its cenotes, and they were an important resource for the ancient Maya. Popular cenotes near Cancun include Cenote Azul (150 MXN), Cenote Ik Kil (150 MXN), Gran Cenote (500 MXN), and Cenote Zahil Ha (200 MXN). Most are less than two hours away from the city by car.

3. Relax on Isla Mujeres

Isla Mujeres , which translates to “Women Island,” is just a short ferry ride away from Cancun. Originally a fishing village, the island maintains its charming atmosphere while being home to some 23,000 people. Kayaking, fishing, sailing, and swimming with sharks are popular activities here. You can enjoy snorkeling or scuba diving in the crystal clear Caribbean sea. The island is also a hatching ground for baby sea turtles.

4. Check out Cancun Underwater Museum

The Museo Subacuático de Arte features over 500 underwater sculptures in Cancun National Marine Park, which are designed to be platforms for coral growth to regenerate the damaged ecosystem. You can experience the magic via snorkeling, scuba diving, and glass-bottom boat tours. Since its founding in 2009, a lot of growth has occurred and every spring, more plants bloom. Snorkeling tours of the Underwater Museum cost around 965 MXN.

5. Visit Tulum

Once a vital Mayan port city, Tulum is located 136 kilometers (85 miles) from Cancun. It is best known for its Mayan ruins, which rest on 12-meter (136-foot) bluffs overlooking the Caribbean Sea. Today, the ruins are a popular tourist attraction, however, the town of Tulum is equally popular with its beautiful beaches, surfing, markets, and cheap eats ( though I hated my time there ). From Cancun, a bus to Tulum costs around 196 MXN. Admission is 85 MXN.

Other Things to See and Do in Cancun

1. shop at market 28.

The downtown area is home to most of the colorful local craft markets in Cancun. Leather, silver, pottery, glassware, artwork, handicrafts, and traditional Mexican blankets are all sold here, making it the perfect place to browse, people-watch, and shop for souvenirs. It’s open daily from 9am-8pm.

2. Go clubbing

Cancun is famous for its nightlife. Most of the nightlife is concentrated around the Hotel Zone in an area aptly known as “party central.” Many of the world’s biggest DJs make regular appearances in the many clubs. During spring break, things get even more crowded and more expensive so be sure to book early if you’re visiting then. Coco Bongo, La Vaquita, and Grand Mambo Cafe are among the most popular places to go.

3. Hit the spa

Cancun is one of the top spa destinations in the world. There are tons of options to choose from, all offering varying treatments and package deals. Consider an ancient Mayan healing session or go with a classic massage. Temazcal Cancun offers massages for 900 MXN and is best known for its temazcal experiences. A type of sweat lodge, temazcal rituals date back to ancient Mesoamerica and were used to cleanse and purify after a battle, or to aid with healing the sick, as well as women giving birth. This experience lasts 2-3 hours and includes a temazcalero guide, volcanic stones, a bonfire, medicinal herbs, cleansing, and teas. The cost is 1,170 MXN.

4. Visit Museo Maya de Cancún

This museum is located on the south side of the Centro de Convenciones, Cancun’s convention center. Home to around 400 artifacts from important Mayan sites throughout the Yucatan Peninsula and throughout Mexico, the museum is one of the best sites in Mexico for learning about Mayan culture and history. Admission costs 70 MXN and includes access to the San Miguelito Archaeological Zone (an area of Mayan ruins).

5. Go diving

Cancun lies along the Great Mesoamerican Reef, the largest reef in the western hemisphere. The area has over 100 types of coral and more than 160 types of reef-inhabiting fish. There are also 5 different species of sea turtles here, making it a great place to spot local wildlife. Scuba diving costs around 2,700 MXN per person for a two-tank dive.

6. Swim with whale sharks at Isla Contoy

An easy day trip from Cancun, Isla Contoy is a small island nature reserve with stunning beaches and over 100 species of birds. It is also home to a large concentration of whale sharks. Whale sharks can grow up to 15 meters (almost 50 feet) in length but don’t worry, they are gentle giants! The island itself is small (it’s just 8.5 kilometers/5.3 miles long) and is only inhabited by a handful of biologists. Just 200 people are allowed on the island each day. You can book tours through a tour agency or hotel, or you can apply to visit with the park office in Cancun. Contoy Adventures is a well-known tour agency offering whale shark experiences for 3,260 MXN. Tours operate from May 20th until September 17th.

7. Take a cooking class

Cooking classes are one of the best ways to learn about a new culture (and the skills you learn are a great souvenir too). Mexico Lindo is one of the best in the Cancun area. Located in the jungle, the class duration is roughly 5.5 hours and includes breakfast, cooking a 6-course meal, snacks, and a tequila tasting. Cooking classes are scheduled Monday through Friday, with a different menu each day. The cost is 2,600 MXN.

8. Go on a taco tour

Street tacos are one of the best things about traveling in Mexico. Cancun Food Tours offers a 3.5-4.5-hour tour through downtown Cancun which includes a market tour and plenty of yummy taco tastings, with the opportunity to make your own tortillas, too. They also have vegetarian substitutions available as well. Tours cost 1,479 MXN per person.

For more information on specific cities in Mexico, check out these guides:

• Mexico City Travel Guide
• Oaxaca Travel Guide

How to Stay Safe in Cancun

Cancun has long been the playground of tourists from throughout North America and Europe. As with most tourist hotspots, the most common crimes here are pickpocketing and bag snatching. This is especially common in crowded areas and on the beach when you’re not paying attention. Make sure to always keep your valuables secure and out of reach.

Overall, dangerous crimes against tourists are uncommon here (it’s mostly jsut petting crime). The people who do tend to be involved in incidents are usually doing drugs or taking part in sex tourism. Avoid all of that and you’ll greatly reduce your risks here.

During busy times like spring break, petty crime increases. Don’t leave drinks unattended and be vigilant with your valuables. Be careful and aware of your surroundings when withdrawing your cash from an ATM. When possible, use indoor ATMs just to be safe.

If you’re worried about getting ripped off, read this blog post about common travel scams to avoid here .

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here but you’ll definitely want to keep an eye on your drinks, avoid walking alone late at night outside busy areas and just keep a watchful eye. Despite the glitz, this isn’t one of the safest parts of Mexico. For specific tips, check out one of the many solo female travel blogs on the city.

If an emergency occurs, dial 911. If that doesn’t work (since 911 isn’t available everywhere), dial 066.

Always trust your gut instinct. Avoid isolated areas at night, don’t wander around alone at night, and be aware of your surroundings at all times. And make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past.

Where to Stay in Cancun

Cancun has plenty of fun and affordable hostels. Here are my suggested places to stay:

• Hostel Natura Cancún
• Mayan Monkey Hostel
• Hostel Ka’beh Cancun
• Nomads Hotel Hostel & Rooftop Pool
• Nomads Boutique Hotel & Hostel
• Selina Cancun Laguna Hotel Zone

Cancun Travel Costs

Accommodation

• Hostel dorms – 280-450 MXN per night
• Hostel private rooms – 1,000-1,500 MXN per night
• Budget hotels – 600-950 MXN per night
• Airbnb private rooms – 300-590 MXN per night
• Airbnb apartments – 800-1,500 MXN per night
• Street food – 10-45 MXN
• Sit-down restaurants – 120-500 MXN
• Beer – 30-60 MXN
• Groceries for a week – 500-585 MXN

Cancun Suggested Budgets

Backpacker – 1,000 mxn per day.

If you’re backpacking, this budget gets you a hostel dorm, street food and self-cooked meals, public transportation, and mostly free or cheap activities like snorkeling and enjoying the beach. If you’re drinking a lot, I’d add another 100-300 MXN per day depending on how much you want to party.

Midrange – 1,800 MXNPer Day

On a midrange budget, you can stay in a private Airbnb. You’ll be able to eat at restaurants serving cheap traditional cuisine, enjoy a few drinks, take the occasional taxi to get around, and do more paid activities like cooking classes or museum visits.

Upscale – 3,800 MXN Per Day

On a “luxury” budget you can stay in a hotel, eat out for all your meals anywhere you want, have plenty of drinks, take taxis everywhere or rent a car, and do some guided food or mezcal tours. This is just the ground floor for luxury, though!

Cancun Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Outside the resort and tourist area, Cancun, like the rest of Mexico, won’t break the bank. Inside that area, everything is priced for tourists and you’ll burn through your money pretty easily. Here are some ways to save in Cancun to help you keep your budget intact:

Being a water filter – Since the tap water here isn’t safe to drink and single-use plastic is bad for the environment, bring a water filter. LifeStraw makes reusable bottles with a built-in filter so you can ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Eat street food – The street stalls that line the streets in Mexico are safe to eat at and provide the cheapest and tastiest food around. If you don’t want to eat there, find restaurants that cater to locals. If you start eating that’s designed for tourists, you’ll pay triple what you should.

Travel off-peak – Try to visit Cancun in the off-season (between June and November) as accommodation is significantly cheaper.

Stay with a local – Don’t want to book a room at a resort? Use Couchsurfing to stay with locals who have extra beds and couches for free. You’ll not only save money on accommodation but you’ll get to connect with a local who can share their insider tips and advice.

Save money on rideshares – Uber is cheaper than taxis and is the best way to get around a city if you don’t want to wait for a bus or pay for a taxi.

How to Get Around in Cancun

Public transportation – Cancun is pretty easy to get around. The bus runs 24 hours and fares cost 8.50 MXN. Try to have exact change as drivers cannot break big bills.

Taxi – In Cancun, taxis are not metered, but 30 MXN is a good guideline for city center travel. I’d skip the taxis if you can though as they add up fast.

Ridesharing – Uber is available here and is cheaper than taxis. A ride from the hotel zone to downtown costs around 198 MXN.

Bicycle – Cancun isn’t ideal for cycling but if you want to get around by bike, rentals cost 220-350 MXN per day.

Car rental – If you want to rent a car to explore the area, expect to pay around 800 MXN per day. An international driver’s license is not required. For the best car rental prices, use Discover Cars .

When to Go to Cancun

Summer (May to October) is the rainy season in Cancun. You can expect it to rain each day heavily, but the downpour is usually short. Temperatures during this time are somewhere between 24-32°C (75-90°F).

From the beginning of August to the end of November is hurricane season and is not a good time to visit.

December to the end of April (winter) is the busiest tourist season and Cancun is packed with travelers from all over North America and Europe. This is the best time to visit if you’re looking to take advantage of Mexico’s tropical environment. The hotel zone is overflowing at times, so think about staying outside the zone if you’re on a budget. The average daily temperature during this time is 28°C (82°F). Prices are also higher during this time, especially in the hotel zone.

Spring break is probably one of the busiest times in Cancun as college and university students flock to the hotels and hostels. It is a crazy party and things can become very crowded very quickly. Prices also spike during this time, especially near the beaches. I would avoid coming here during this time unless you really want to splash out and party.

Note: If you plan to do anything in the ocean, be sure to pack biodegradable sunscreen before you leave for your trip. The guides on your snorkeling/diving excursions sometimes won’t tell you until the last minute that regular sunscreen is not allowed (it’s damaging to the coral and overall water quality).

Cancun Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Cancun Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more tips for your trip? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Cancun travel and continue planning your trip:

Is Cancun Safe?

Mexico: A Love Story

How to Stay Safe in Mexico as a Solo Female Traveler

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Cancun Mexico Road Trip: Our 2 Week Yucatan Peninsula Road Trip for First Timers

By: Author MC Miller

Posted on Last updated: July 8, 2023

Categories Adventure Travel , Mexico , North America , Road Trips , Travel Blog Post , Travel Guides

Planning an epic Mexico  road trip? Here’s our detailed breakdown of the perfect  two-week itinerary in Mexico.   

While a Mexico Road trip may not be the first thing that springs to mind when you think of a holiday to Mexico, after several trips to Mexico, we believe a road trip in Mexico is the very best way to see all the amazing things the country has to offer.

Our good friends are from Mexico (we met them on an exchange in our university days in Norway!) so we often venture back to Mexico to visit them. This time we opted out of the Collectivos and Group Tours in favour of renting a car in Cancun to explore the incredible Yucatan peninsula.

If you are visiting Mexico for the first time, here is what we would recommend seeing in a 2 week Mexico road trip itinerary of the Yucatan peninsula for first-time visitors.

Road Trip Mexico Itinerary – Plan a Trip to Mexico

How to Get to Mexico?

There are numerous great airports to fly into Mexico. The best airport to fly into for a Yucatan peninsula road trip are either MEX (Mexico City) or CUN (Cancun).

If you are coming from the United States, flights into Mexico can be very affordable due to the abundance of low cost carriers frequenting these airports including Interjet, Volaris, SouthWest and Spirit.

You can fly from Miami to Cancun for as little as $100 (2-hour flight). For discounted flights, we use Skyscanner to search for the cheapest flights available.

The best way to access Mexico from elsewhere in the world including Europe may be to first fly into Miami and get a connecting flight to Mexico. Recently, we took a flight with Norwegian Airlines for $220 one way including baggage from Europe to Fort Lauderdale. 

We would not recommend driving from the US to Mexico. While it is *usually* safe border towns have the worst reputation in Mexico for crime. For that reason, we advise to fly from the US to Mexico and rent a car on arrival.

How to Get Around Mexico 

Recently, we hired a car in Cancun and it was by far our favourite way to get around Mexico.  We have also done road trips with our Mexican friends (Mexico City – Cuernavaca) & (Leon – Guanajuato, San Miguel) and it was definitely the better choice to get around.

The good news is car hire is very affordable in Mexico . Provided you are not traveling directly in the holidays you should be able to get an affordable car hire from any major airport in Mexico.

For example, our last car rental in Mexico cost us $75 for a week including full insurance, which is just over $10 a day.

Driving in Mexico is super easy, especially in the Yucatan peninsula where we would recommend a road trip for first timers in Mexico. If you would like a little extra help, you can see our exact directions from Cancun Airport to Tulum .

There are also no problems to drive with a foreign driving license in Mexico. However, if it is in a language other than English or Spanish, it is always best to have it translated.

Gas is a little more expensive than most places in the US, 20 pesos or $1 USD per litre (around US$4 per gallon (3.78L) however, considering car hire is about a third of the price of most places in the US, a little extra on petrol doesn’t make much difference in the budget.

Tip: If you have a choice between a toll road or a toll free road in Mexico, for safety reasons it is always best to select the toll road.

By Day Trips

If you prefer not to drive, Mexico is a great place for tours. There is a tour to just about every major tourist spot in Mexico so you won’t have trouble getting around Mexico by doing day trips.

There are loads of tours with pricing and reviews at  GetYourGuide . We personally love this site as they have free cancellations and mobile vouchers – our plans are always changing so it is nice to know you can change your travel plans on the go.

There are tours from Cancun for as little as $45.

When to Do a Mexico Road Trip?

Mexico is a warm and sunny destination year round so it is always a good time for a road trip!

While it can become light jacket weather in North Mexico including Mexico City during winter (Dec-Feb), in Yucatan (where we suggest you do your first road trip in Mexico) it is ‘summer’ year round. Yippee!

The coldest Cancun gets is around 68°F (20°C) in January. Temperatures can rise to up to 95°F (35°C) in July in Cancun.

As a tropical destination, the heat can be unbearable in summer in Mexico. For this reason, our favourite time to visit Mexico is in winter between November to February. 

If you want to avoid peak prices, avoid Christmas and New Years. It is low season until December and after New Years when people head back to work after Christmas break. 

How Much Time for a Mexico Road Trip to the Yucatan Peninsula?

You could spend a lifetime in the Yucatan Peninsula and still not see every amazing beach, Mayan ruin and cenote the region has to offer.

If you want to cover the best of this area of Mexico well, without needing to check every single attraction off the list, we would recommend at least two weeks. If you have less time, you can focus on less towns. A possible combination might be (Cancun + Playa del Carmen) OR (Tulum + Valladolid.)

If you want to stretch out your trip and make it a little more relaxing, you can schedule more time in Cancun or Playa del Carmen.

Recommended Two Weeks in Mexico itinerary summary:

• 2 Days in Cancun – to explore epic beaches and the famous Cancun beach strip
• 1 Day in Isla Mujeres – to swim with Whale Sharks, see turtles and drive around on golf carts.
• 2 Days in Playa Del Carmen – to explore more pristine beaches in a more traditional environment
• 2 Days in Cozumel  – to visit one of the best islands in Mexico
• 5 Days in Tulum – to swim in amazing cenotes and see epic Mayan ruins
• 2 Days in Valladolid  – to explore a quintessential Mexican small city and hunt for hidden cenotes.

How Much Does a 2-Week Mexico Road Trip Cost?

Many people choose Mexico as a travel destination as it is an incredibly affordable place to vacation.

As tourism increases, we have noticed that the prices in Mexico have increased over the years however, it is still an incredibly affordable place to vacation in comparison to the US or Europe.

While using collectivo (shared van, local transport) is probably the most affordable way to travel Mexico (costing around 30 pesos a ride), it can be unreliable and leave you waiting in the hot sun for hours.

Other than collectivos, hiring a car is the next most affordable way to complete a Mexican road trip from Cancun. Expect to pay around around US$150 for a 2-week car rental and another $200 for gas. 

The hotel strip in Cancun is notoriously an expensive place to stay where (seriously amazing) all inclusive accommodation in Cancun can set you back US$200 + for a 4 star hotel with everything including drinks included.

If you want to keep costs down, you can stay with the locals in downtown Cancun (totally safe) but it will take you 25 minutes per day in the car each day to access the beach. 

See more: Adults only all inclusive resorts in Cancun.

Outside of the hotel strip in Cancun and other all inclusive hotels scattered across the Yucatan peninsula, accommodation in Mexico is more affordable than most places in the United States and Europe.

Outside of peak times, you can get a comfortable 3-star budget hotel  for as little as US$40-60 per night and around $60-80 per night for a 4-star hotel. During school holidays, Spring Break and annual breaks like Christmas, prices in the area increase as much as double.

Food and drink in Mexico is as cheap or as expensive as you want to make it. You can dine locally for as little as $10 for two people or there are fancy Western style resorts which will cost you as much if not more than dining in the United States.

Our 2-Week Cancun Mexico Road Trip Itinerary

Itinerary day 1-2: cancun.

Cancun is the airport that you will likely be flying in and picking up your car hire so it makes sense to spend a few days relaxing in and around some of the most beautiful beaches in the world.

The Hotel Zone or Zona Hotelera in Cancun (where majourity of people stay on the 15-mile strip of sand in beachfront properties) has a reputation for hosting first time American travelers to Mexico, who are nervous to venture out and explore uncharted territory (these people certainly aren’t thinking to hire a car for example)

The Hotel Zone IS a very Americanised experience, it is much like being in America really, there is little to no cultural value here, and while it is probably not our favourite place in Mexico we would recommend spending a few nights for 2 reasons: 1. the beaches are possibly our favourite on the coast (BIG call) 2. an all inclusive resort is a pretty cool experience – like being on a cruise ship, but on land…

If you like nightlife and partying you will also LOVE Cancun as you can find interesting bars and restaurants lining Kulkukan Boulevard, the only road on the  Hotel Zone beach strip. One of the most famous shows/nightclubs to visit in Cancun is Coco Bongos which includes a Vegas style show followed by a night club (ending at 3.30am)

If you feel like adding a little culture into itinerary OR you want to save money, we would suggest either visiting or staying in Downtown Cancun . Prices in Downtown Cancun are about a third of the cost of the Hotel Zone.

Our favourite place to visit in Downtown Cancun is Parque Las Palapas , a local park which often hosts local performances and is lined with very affordable street food. If you want to pick up a cool Mexican souvenir, the best and most affordable place to do so is downtown at Mercado 28 (get ready to barter).

Tacos we bought in downtown Cancun. We paid 25 pesos for 5

If you want to do some interesting and unique snorkeling in Cancun during your few days staying there, we would recommend going on a snorkeling or diving tour (starting at $47 for a snorkeling tour) with the Underwater Museum of Art.

The cool thing about this tour is that it is dedicated entirely to conservation. The museum has a total of 500 sculptures which were pioneered for the creation of artificial reefs to prevent mass tourism damaging the eco-system at the Manchones reef. The statutes are a new technique for coral to grow on and a way to save the oceans for generations to come which is pretty cool.

If you are are an adventure junkie, Cancun has some of the best adventure parks in the world including Xplor Adventure Park which for $120 per person includes all inclusive zip lineing through the jungle,  ATV rides, underground caving and rafting.

An activity that totally peaks my interest in Cancun is the Lucha Libre (traditional Mexican fighting in masks) which are held in downtown Cancun every Tuesday, Friday and Sunday. For 250 pesos ($12) you can get front row tickets including a beer!

It is possible to visit Cenotes and the famous Chichen Itza Maya Ruins from Cancun but we would recommend doing these things from Tulum and Valladolid.

If you want to check out some ruins close to Cancun we would recommend the El Meco ruins  which are located only a 20 minute car ride from Cancun.

In 1-2 days, you would not be able to do all the activities in Cancun. If you love everything we listed here, you may want to extend your time in Cancun out a bit.

Where to stay in Cancun?

There is accommodation in Cancun to meet a variety of budgets.

For budget conscious travelers, it is best to stay in the downtown Cancun area and make trips to the Hotel Zone and any other place you might like to visit in Cancun.

Parking can be a little tricky in the Hotel Zone. If you want to stay in Downtown Cancun, there are a few good free parking spots including Playa Ballenas which is free to park in the hotel zone. 

Here are our top picks for where to stay in Cancun:

Downtown Budget Conscious Traveler: Hotel Suites Gaby

We have personally stayed at Hotel Suites Gaby while in Cancun. It is clean and comfortable accommodation with free parking in downtown Cancun. You can easily walk to Parque Las Palapas from the hotel. Oh, and wifi works which is always nice. Wifi in hotels can be unrealiable in Mexico so when the signal is strong it is a big thumbs up from me!

• Book Hotel Suites Gaby for your dates

Best Budget All Inclusive Hotel Cancun: Melody Maker Cancún

Pros: Modern decor, pools appealing to adults not just for kids, nice white sand beaches on the Cancun hotel zone strip, rooms look super fresh and tidy, some rooms have a nice outdoor spa on the balcony, indoor dining areas a sophisticated – looks high-end with leather seats, breakfast room has nice high ceilings and extends right onto the sand, nice day beds with umbrellas, Beautiful symmetry,

Cons: not much entertainment at night if you don’t want to watch a movie. Reportedly limited options on food

• Book The Melody Maker for your dates in Cancun

Best Budget All Inclusive Hotel Cancun:  Villa Del Palmar

Another good choice for a budget, all inclusive in Cancun is the Villa Del Palmar hotel.

Pros: hammock on the balcony, clean – not modern but not old decor, good room size at 50m2, free wifi, nice infinity pool with daybeds overlooking the beach. Good variety of restaurants: 6 including Buffet & à la carte: International, Japanese, Mediterranean, Mexican, Steakhouse cuisine.

Cons: Located near Isla Mujeres but a little far from Cancun. The beach doesn’t seem as nice as the hotel zone beaches. People report lots of seaweed.

• Book The Villa Del Palmar for your dates in Cancun

Best Luxury All Inclusive Hotel Cancun: Hyatt Viva Cancun

If you are coming to Cancun on a honeymoon or a special occasion we would recommend a stay at the Hyatt Viva Cancun, one of the best rated all inclusive hotels on the Hotel Zone of Cancun.

Pros: The hotel is located on one of the most beautiful strips of Cancun where you can enjoy white sand beaches and clear-blue waters. There is also a lot to do at the hotel from theater shows to water sports to tequila tastings and even a microbrewery. 

Cons: The price is high but for the luxury you receive we think it is quite good value.

• Book The Hyatt Viva Cancun for your dates in Cancun

Itinerary Days 2-3: Isla Mujeres 

Only a 15 minute ferry ride from Cancun is the beautiful island of Isla Mujeres. The ferry leaves  every half hour from 5:00 am until 9:30 pm. See here for the ferry website with more information.

One of the biggest draw cards to visiting Isla Mujeres is the ability to swim with whale sharks . You can also swim with them at the nearby Island of Isla Holbox, which is an alternative spot to Isla Mujeres to swim with whale sharks.

If you want to have a chance to swim with whale sharks you will need to visit between May – September. If you want to swim with whale sharks between this time, it is best to book a tour in advance. Here is a eco-friendly small group tour to swim with whale sharks. It is best to pick a small group tour to protect the whale sharks.

If your visit to Isla Mujeres doesn’t fall within whale shark time of year (BOO!) there are still tonnes of fun things to do on the island – the water and sand on the island is stunning so it would be worthwhile to make a visit to the island for the stunning surroundings alone.

One of the most popular beaches on the island is Playa Norte  which is a stunning strip of beach lined with resorts and cool beach bars. It is also a great place to watch the sunset. If you are choose to stay on the island for a few nights, Playa Sol is a great alternative sunset spot on Isle Mujeres.  It is also known as being less commercialised as Playa Norte so as a general rule it is a cheaper place to go for food and drink.

One of the quirky things to do on Isla Mujeres is to hire a golf buggy and travel around the island on that as it’s not recommend to bring your car over to the island. This is probably the most fun way to get around the island but it isn’t particularly cheap. Golf Buggys can cost up to 1500 pesos or $80.

If you hire a buggy drive your buggy to the beautiful beach and cliffside of Punta Sur. Punta Sur is worth the trip for the spectacular views it provides. There used to be Mayan ruins here but sadly, there have mostly been destroyed now by hurricanes.

If you are not in season for whale sharks but you love animals like us, we would highly recommend a visit to  Tortugranja , a turtle sanctuary for endangered sea turtles. It is very affordable for entry, only $3 per person. You can also buy some food to feed the turtles.

If you love turtles, between May – July you can see loggerhead turtles laying eggs on some protected beaches in the island. A good spot is Casa Sirena Hotel where if you are lucky you can spot the turtles at night. Book in advance as this hotel is popular and often books out.

On the island there are a few water parks where you pay a fee to use their facilities for the day. One of the most popular is the Garrafon Natural Reef Park which includes luxury beach loungers,  kayaking an infinity pool, ziplining and a pristine place for snorkeling. It costs $70 per person to enter the park.

If you are coming from Cancun and don’t want to stay on the island, an alternative is to get a tour which includes entry & ferry transfers. We would recommend this tour which isn’t a whole lot more expensive.

If you would like a more budget experience, next to the reef park is a cheaper alternative for budget travelers at Garrafon de Castilla . For 100 pesos per person ($5 USD) it is a great no frills snorkel spot with beach chairs and a restaurant where you can purchase reasonably priced food and drink.

You can also access the MUSA , underwater musuem from Isla Mujeres so if you didn’t get a chance to do so from Cancun, this is your chance. It is necessary to book a tour to visit MUSA as the underwater art is a while off shore so it is necessary to have a boat.

Where to stay in Isla Mujeres?

There are great options for both budget and luxury travelers in Isla Mujeres.

Here are our top picks for where to stay in Isla Mujeres, depending on your budget :

Budget Conscious Traveler: Posada Paso Del Sol 

Posada Paso Del Sol is the perfect place for budget travelers on Isla Mujeres. The rooms are clean, beautifully decorated and each feature their own ensuite bathroom.

• Book Posada Paso Del Sol for your dates in Isla Mujeres.

Mid Range Comfort Traveler: Hotel Kinich

Hotel Kinich is the perfect place for mid range travelers on Isla Mujeres. The 4 star accommodation is located in a great spot on the Island and each modern room has air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi.

• Book Hotel Kinich during your dates on Isla Mujeres

Luxury Traveler: Izla Beach Front Hotel 

This luxury beachfront hotel is our pick for a luxury stay on Isla Mujeres as it consistency gets great ratings for its clean, modern and comfortable lodging at an affordable price. The hotel includes 2 pools including a rooftop pool and a restaurant on premises.

• Book The Izla Beach Front Hotel for Your Dates in Isla Mujeres

Itinerary Days 3-5: Playa del Carmen

We have visited Playa del Carmen quite a few times as it a less expensive and more authentic Cancun. Of course there are still the commercialized parts of Playa Del Carmen (it also has a CoCo Bongos for example) but as a whole it is more authentic Mexican experience than Cancun.

1-2 nights here is plenty as there is not a whole lot of fun things to do here that you cannot do in our preferred town on the Yucatan peninsula, Tulum.

The beach trip at Playa del Carmen is filled with fancy hotels and beach clubs that often have a cover charge or minimum spend to buy something there.

If you would like to spend a day on the beach, Lidos Beach Club is one of the better and more affordable options. It has only a $200 peso ($10 USD) minimum   spend and the seats and loungers are very comfortable.

If you prefer a more local beach, you can head to the free and local preferred beach of Punta Esmeralda , a 15 minute drive from downtown Playa.

We would also recommend a few hours wondering around Playa Del Carmen’s 5th Avenue , La Quinta as there is a lot of interesting restaurants and shops to explore.

Playa Del Carmen has some great and very affordable Mexican cuisine so make sure you eat lots while in Playa del Carmen. Our favourite is El Fargon , which sell authentic and delicious tacos for 15 pesos each.

In Playa del Carmen you will come across a lot of street vendors, especially around Parque Fundadores . Don’t miss the opportunity to try some Elote (grilled Corn with mayonnaise) – Mike loves it, Im not so much of a fan and a Marquesita , essentially a nutella and cheese crape. You can also buy tacos and tortas from street vendors at better prices than the surrounding restarants.

If you want to splurge a new and interesting dining experience one night, Alux Restaurant offers cool cave dining in Playa del Carmen. A main meal in a cave will set you back 500 pesos + ($26 USD). For budget travelers they have a 150 peso special which includes one drink and a cave tour.

If you are one for a bit of adventure, you can do a cave swim at Rio Secreto  while in Playa. You will need a guide for this. You can book your tour here .

On your journey between Playa del Carmen and Tulum we would recommend stopping a t Xpu-ha Beach for a bit of  secluded paradise without the hoards of tourists. It is well worth the 100 pesos entry ($5 USD). If you would like a sun lounger or food and drink, it costs extra.

There is a cenote located directly across the beach called Cenote Azul  if you feel like visiting a cenote while at the beach. The cenote costs 120 pesos entry ($6 USD). 

Further along from Xpu-ha Beach , on your way to Tulum or as a day trip from Tulum is  Akumal  where you have the chance to swim with sea turtles. The best time to show up at the   Akumal beach is early morning, when the turtles are more active. As it gets later in the day, crowds show up at the beach and scare the turtles away.

Where to stay in Playa Del Carmen ?

We have stayed in Playa Del Carmen a few times in the past and have found some fabulous places to stay!

Here are our top picks for where to stay in Playa Del Carmen , depending on your budget :

Budget Conscious Traveler: Wabi Hotel

We have personally stayed at Wabi Hotel before and would highly recommend it. It is a clean and comfortable hotel in Playa del Carmen with free parking. We would recommend spending a few extra dollars on the Superior room as it is well worth it.

• Book The Wabi Hotel for Your Dates in Playa Del Carmen here

Mid Range Comfort Traveler: Wyndham Garden Playa del Carmen

If you want a mid range accommodation in Playa in an international brand name where you really cantgo wrong we would suggest the Wyndham Garden Playa del Carmen. For what you get it is a great rate.

• Book The Wyndham Garden Playa del Carmen for Your Dates in Playa Del Carmen here

Luxury Traveler: Ocean Riviera Paradise El Beso – All Inclusive Adults Only 

We just booked a stay at the Ocean Riviera Paradise El Beso with our parents who are visiting us in Playa del Carmen. We are very excited. It looks fabulous and it was the best value for money we could find in the luxury all inclusive category in Playa de Carmen.

• Book The Ocean Riviera Paradise El Beso here

Itinerary Days 5-7: Cozumel

Cozumel is another nice island you can access from Playa Del Carmen. The ferry takes around 30 minutes to reach Cozumel.

There are two options with your car on Cozumel. Firstly, you can bring your rental car on the car ferry, this is a different ferry to the passenger ferry and costs 500 pesos per car.

Having a car is really necessary on Cozumel so you either take your rental car or rent a car on Cozumel – a popular rental car option in Cozumel is to rent a jeep, which is a bit of fun.

If you decide to rent a car over in Cozumel, you can take a regular passenger ferry. There are a few companies that make the route. You can check prices and book via their websites –  Barcos Caribe ,  Ultramar  & Mexico Waterjets.

Note: The ferry ride can be a bit bumpy so if you are susceptible to sea sickness you may want to take tablets with you.

The island of Cozumel is known for its incredible snorkeling and diving opportunities so it is highly advisable to take a reef trip while you are on the island. For this you have a few options. The best option is to take a  reasonably priced boat tour from Cozumel boat tours are the best way to experience the amazing reefs of Cozumel which cannot be accessed on shore.

If you are on a budget conscious trip, we recommend visiting the Money Bar in Cozumel  for snorkeling. It is free entry, remember to BYO your own  snorkel.  Naturally, they do expect you to buy at least a drink. Note, there is a happy hour between 5-7pm for 2 for 1 drinks!

Us a few years ago at the Money Bar

Being a stunning island, it will come as no shock to you that some of the best things to do in Cozumel include exploring the incredible beaches. As a general rule, the west side of Cozumel, facing Mexico as calmer waters and more alive coral than the east size of the island which has much stronger currents.

Playa Corona is one of the closer beaches to downtown Cozumel but it is not the prettiest beach ever. For a prettier beach head to Playa Chen Rio, Playa Palancar or Sunset Beach . 

In true Yucatan peninsula form, there are a number of beach clubs and adventure parks on Cozumel. One of the more popular ones being the Chankanaab Adventure Beach Park . For 400 pesos or 23 USD you can enjoy swimming pools, pre-Hispanic Replicas, tropical gardens, a picturesque beach with hammocks and lounge chairs. 

The alternative and equally popular adventure park on the island is  Punta Sur Ecological Park which includes its own lighthouse in the entry cost ($16).

There is also a chance to see crocodiles and a marine seal show. Mind you, why would you merely want to see a crocodile when you can swim with one at The Carwash Cenote in Tulum (not even joking).

For those who love history, there are some small Mayan Ruins in Cozumel known as the Ruins of San Gervasio worth checking out on Cozumel Island. Mayans lived in the Yucatun peninsula until Spanish settlers arrived, and due to disease and other factors, resulted in the ultimate demise of their population.

What is left behind by the Mayans is amazing ruins for us to discover including San Gervasio on Cozumel, the Tulum Ruins , Coba and Chichen Itza to name a few.

The Ruins of San Gervasio are far from the most popular ruins in the area but they are worth checking out if you are in Cozumel. To fully appreciate the history behind the ruins, it is always advisable to get a guide. We would recommend this beach and ruins of San Gervasio tour if you would like to visit.

If you decide to visit the ruins, bring some bug spray with you as the mosquitoes are rife! Whenever we travel to Central or South America we always bring mosquito bracelets with us.

For fishing fanatics, there is great deep sea fishing off the coast of Cozumel. Of course, a tour is required to go deep sea fishing. We would recommend this one if deep sea fishing tickles your fancy.

Where to stay in Cozumel ?

The great thing about Cozumel is it is not a stupidly expensive island. Sure, it has luxury accommodation options but there are also some great places to stay for the budget conscious traveler in Cozumel.

Here are our top picks for where to stay in Cozumel , depending on your budget :

Budget Conscious Traveler: Casa del Mar Cozumel Hotel & Dive Resort

The Casa del Mar is a reasonably priced resort on Cozumel for the budget minded traveler.

The hotel is our pick for a budget hotel in Cozumel as it has an outdoor pool and also offers free access to the Nachi-Cocom Beach Club.

Book the Casa del Mar Cozumel Hotel & Dive Resort here

Mid range comfort traveler: hotel b cozumel-boutique by the sea .

Hotel B Cozumel is our pick for a stunning 4* hotel in Cozumel as it has an amazing infinity pool overlooking the sea. The rooms are clean, comfortable, have air-conditioning, wifi and a private terrace which is always nice.

• Book the Hotel B Cozumel-Boutique by the Sea here

Luxury Traveler: President InterContinental Cozumel Resort & Spa

This hotel is the perfect for a stunning luxury stay in Cozumel as it has a private beach , 2 outdoor pools, 2 tennis courts and is close to attractions such as Chankanaab National Park.

• Book The President InterContinental Cozumel Resort & Spa here  

Itinerary Days 7-12: Tulum

Tulum is our favourite place to go on the Yucatan peninsula.

Tulum has really changed over the years. Five years ago, we visited Tulum and it was very much a hippy eco-friendly town, there was no air con in any of the hotels and definitely no Starbucks. Not to say i don’t think eco-friendly is great BUT its darn hotel in Tulum so ya girl needs air-con, just sayin’. 

So, five years ago I only had a day trip to Tulum and on our most recent trip we got to stay in Tulum and it was fabulous. If you need to cut anything from the trip, here a tip, don’t cut Tulum .

Okay so why is Tulum so great? Well, in my opinion it has the best cenotes in the Yucatan peninsula. If you are short on time, wait to visit a cenote until you get to Tulum.

The best cenotes to visit in Tulum include: Gran Cenote (around 350 pesos), Cenote Dos Ojos (price changes based on season but can be 600pesos +), Cenote Calaverra (150 pesos), Cenote Carwash (100 pesos BUT you can try to argue to get in for 50 pesos).

There is also some great Mayan ruins called the Tulum Ruins directly overlooking the beach in Tulum which are pretty nice. It is very hot walking around the Tulum Ruins so make sure you bring an umbrella.

Most people choose to do the hippy thing and rent a bike in Tulum but I personally think having a car is so much better. While they all sweated it out in the sun, we drove in air conditioning and were able to access many attractions such as Tulum’s Natural Mud Bath Laguna Kaan Lum which isn’t possible on bike.

If you decide you want to rent a bike for a bit of fun in Tulum, you can get one for around 10 USD a day. Bike rental companies are everywhere and how much you pay depends a lot on how well you can negotiate.

Many people use their bike to access the free beaches in Tulum including Playa Paraiso (you can also get free parking here). Our favourite bar near Playa Paraiso is Casa Maria Mexican Grill  which have a great happy hour 4-7 with half price beers.

We would also recommend taking a trip to Tulum Luxury Hotel Zone which is the opposite direction to Playa Paraiso. Here you can shop till you drop in gorgeous bohemian clothing stores and visit fancy instagrammable cafes and bars including Matcha Mama , I Scream Bar and Raw Love.

If you want an iconic picture on an instagrammable white swing in Tulum, head to Coco Tulum Bar .

Azulik Tulum have amazing instagrammable birds nests will amazing views of the Tulum jungle. Alternatively Casa Malca, the home of notorious drug Cartel leader Pablo Escabar. There is a minimum spend of $50 for people who are not hotel guests.

If you are happy to forgo the instagrammable cafes and restaurants, stop at the hippy bar called, Taqueria La Eufemia . Despite the fact that most places are quite expensive on the Tulum Luxury Hotel Zone this bar has very reasonable prices.

Where to stay in Tulum ?

We found Tulum to be a little more expensive than Playa del Carmen but overall not to bad. In our opinion, it is worthwhile to pay a little more money to stay here.

Here are our top picks for where to stay in Tulum , depending on your budget :

Budget Conscious Traveler: Hotel Arco 

Hotel Arco is a great option for a budget conscious traveller in Tulum. The hotel includes a fitness center, terrace and restaurant as well as an outdoor pool and air conditioned rooms.

Book Hotel Arco during your dates in Tulum here

Mid range comfort traveler: central park tulum.

The Central Park Tulum is our pick for a mid range comfort hotel in Tulum with a beautiful outdoor pool. Something quirky, some rooms even come with an oven for those who like to cook at home.

Book Central Park Tulum for your dates in Tulum here

Luxury traveler:   the beach tulum, book the beach tulum for your dates in tulum here.

We stayed at a new hotel in Tulum (not in the above list) it had pros and cons.

Let’s start with the cons, as it was new, in one room we had problems with wifi and another room we had problems with aircon. They did move us to a room with 0 problems in the end.

On the plus side, for what we paid it was dirt cheap, in a perfect location and brand new with all modern appliances which was great. I do like modern and luxury.

Also, maybe our experience was an anomaly as it has a 9 review score on booking.com. If you would like to check it out and decide for yourself, it is  this hotel.

Note : There is an option at this point to make a trip to the stunning Lagoon Bacalar. It is a 2.5 hour drive from Tulum. If you choose this option, it is a 3 hour drive to Valladolid. Alternatively, skip Valladolid and just go here.

Itinerary Days 12-13: Valladolid

It is a 1.5 hour drive from Tulum to Valladolid. When we first arrived we thought “ What on earth are we doing here!? ” The outskirts of the town are not very nice but give it time, the very centre of Valladolid is super cute and well worth your trip.

On your way from Tulum to Valladolid you might like to make a stop at the Coba ruins , Mayan ruins in the middle of the jungle in Mexico. They are also the only Mayan ruins in Mexico where you can climb to the roof. There is an amazing view of the jungle from the top of the Coba ruins.

If you are not cenoted out by the time you visit Valladolid, Valladolid is the town of Cenotes. The best cenotes in Tulum include Xkeken, Samula, Zaci, Oxman, Hibiku, Palomitas, Xcanche, Dzitnup, Suytun.

Arguably, the most impressive cenote to visit is Suytun , a cenote in cave with stalactites. The only natural light is from a hole in the roof which lets a beam of light in.

If you want to visit this cenote, arguably, the most popular cenote in Valladolid, it is absolutely essential to arrive at the opening time of 9am otherwise the magic of the cenote will be lost as you will be sharing the space with a lot of tourist buses.

Stroll around the colonial downtown area of Valladolid and stop to marvel at the beautiful Convent of San Bernadino .

For dinner, eat at our favourite restaurant in Valladolid, La Selva. It serves great food and is very budget friendly. It costs 13 pesos (about 75cents) for pretty much anything on their menu.

From Valladolid, drive to the most iconic Mayan ruin in the area, Chichen Itza .

Where to stay in Valladolid ?

For a small town, there are surprisingly a lot of good options for places to stay in Valladolid.

Here are our top picks for where to stay in Valladolid , depending on your budget :

Budget Conscious Traveler: Casa Sisal

We stayed at Casa Sisal and we would highly recommend it. It was cheap and comfortable. The only downside, they did have internet but it was average quality.

Book your stay at Casa Sisal here

Mid range comfort traveler: nh valladolid .

For a comfortable, yet not too pricey stay in Valladolid, we would recommend the NH Valladolid.

The great thing about this hotel is it is just a 10-minute walk from the main square of Valladolid.

We would recommend this hotel for its comfort and the fact it has a lot of facilities son premises including a hot tub, sauna, fitness center and outdoor terrace with sun loungers.

• Book your stay at NH Valladolid here .

Luxury Traveler: AC Hotel Palacio de Santa Ana 

One of the few 5 star hotels in town, and the only one we could find is the AC Hotel Palacio de Santa Ana 

One thing that stands out to us about this hotel is that it is located in the historic Los Jerónimos Monastery, which dates back to the 18th century, on the banks of the Pisuerga River which is pretty cool. If we are going to splurge on 5* accommodation we always like it to have something pretty special and unique about it.

Book your stay at AC Hotel Palacio de Santa Ana here

If you have more time at this point?

If you have some more time at this point and are wondering what else to explore, you may like to schedule a trip to the Las Coloradas Pink Lake. 

We have never been to this lake because of the mixed reviews it gets. On one hand, you can see some pretty pink flamingos at the lake on the other hand, people claim the pink in the lake is oversaturated and not really that pink at all.

If you go to the pink lake, let us know what you think!

Itinerary Days 13-14: Cancun

From Valladolid, head back to Cancun. There are two options:

• You can take a toll road which takes 1 hour 50 minutes to Cancun and costs 185 pesos; or
• You can take the coastal route you came back through Tulum and Playa del Carmen. There is no toll but the journey takes 3 hours, 15 minutes

As you are probably exhausted from your long road trip, we would suggest getting a comfortable airport hotel for your last night in Cancun before flying out. We would recommend Fairfield Suites by Marriott.

Well that’s it folks, an epic Mexico road trip! We hope you have an amazing time in Mexico, we are sure you will. If you have any other great tips we didn’t mention or want any other advice, we are always happy to help so leave a comment below.

Wondering where to go on your trip from Cancun? May we suggest Cuba? There are great cheap flights from Cancun to Cuba and it is a pretty interesting place to go!

Inspired? Pin this Mexican Road Trip to Pinterest!

MC Miller is a travel blogger and writer who has travelled America extensively and abroad to over 80 countries. He founded Couple Travel The World in 2017. Since then, he has spent over 6 years on the road as a full time travel couple. When he not traveling he likes to spend quality time with his partner Bett, planning our their next date or romantic getaway!

• Yucatan Road Trip: The Perfect 2 Weeks in Mexico

If you’re wondering how to fill 2 weeks in Mexico then taking a Yucatan road trip is always going to be one of the most thrilling ways to organize your trip.

This tropical region is where you’ll find hundreds of mysterious cenotes, impressive Mayan ruins, golden beaches with azure waters, and fascinating cities rich in Mexican culture and heritage. Not to mention world-class diving and snorkeling!

But with so many sights to choose from, it can be exhausting to piece it all together into the perfect route. And that’s where my Yucatan Peninsula road trip itinerary comes into the picture!

The following guide contains everything you need to know about what places to visit, which hotels to stay at during your trip, and even where to eat.

A quick note before we begin that this Yucatan itinerary covers the Yucatan Peninsula rather than just the Mexican state of Yucatan. In fact, the peninsula is inclusive of Campeche and Quintana Roo as well as Yucatan. Let’s get started!

* Disclosure: This post contains a few affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through my link. *

Table of Contents

Overview of Your Yucatan Road Trip

Breakdown of your 2 weeks in mexico.

Before we go over the schedule day by day, here is a quick overview of your Yucatan road trip itinerary. 

• Day 1: Arrive in Cancun 
• Day 2: Cancun

Day 3: Day trip to Isla Mujeres

Day 4: valladolid.

• Day 5: Chichen Itza & Cenote Ik Kil 
• Day 6: Cenote Zaci, Cenote Suytun, Cenote Chukum
• Day 7: Cenote Oxman, Uayma, Merida

Day 8: Merida

• Day 9: Izamal, Cobá Archaeological Zone, arrive in Tulum

Day 10: Tulum

• Day 11: Tulum Archaeological Zone & Cenote Hopping 
• Day 12: Cenote dos Ojos, Cenote Azul, arrive in Playa del Carmen

Day 13: Playa del Carmen

• Day 14: Return to Cancun airport

Map for your Yucatan road trip itinerary

Below you can find a customized map that includes all the locations you’re going to visit on this Yucatan road trip itinerary.

I marked the different parts of the road trip with different colors so you can easily see which places you’re going to in each part of the Yucatan Peninsula.

How to use this map: This map is fully interactive, so you can move around, zoom in/zoom out, and click on the icons. If you want to see a larger map, click on the bracket in the upper right corner. To see more details and the different layers, click on the tab in the upper left corner. If you want to save it for later, click on the star icon next to the name of the map. Then simply open Google Maps either on your desktop or phone, go to ‘Saved’/’Maps’, and open the map whenever you need it.

Day 1-2: Cancun

Welcome to the Yucatan! After a potentially long experience of traveling to the region on day one, I recommend that you devote the first full day of your 2 weeks in Yucatan to relaxing in the immediate Cancun area.

Seize the opportunity to enjoy the swimming facilities at your resort, hit the beach, and sample the local sites. Unless you want it for added convenience you will not need to collect your rental car until the fourth day when you depart Cancun.  

In terms of things to do in Cancun, you can head over to the downtown area (Ciudad Cancun) and explore the streets and public parks while you find your feet. The Malecón Tajamar is also a fantastic spot to take a walk to coincide with sunset.

There are lots of other activities in the region including visiting cenotes and zip lines but as you’ll have the opportunity to experience these later during your Yucatan road trip, I highly recommend making the most of the downtime by winding down in your hotel resort and checking out the beaches in the Hotel Zone.

Where to stay in Cancun 

Cancun is situated at the eastern tip of the Yucatan Peninsula and is divided into two parts. Downtown Cancun is located on the mainland while the Zona Hotelera (Hotel Zone) straddles a long, narrow stretch of island that juts out into the Caribbean Sea and runs parallel to the city.

The Hotel Zone is broken down into a string of districts known as the North, Middle, and South Hotel Zones and the whole strip is buzzing with beach resorts, restaurants, and amenities.

For the purpose of this Mexico 2 week itinerary, I recommend that you opt for one of the hotels situated in the Hotel Zone. These are my top picks for where to stay in Cancun.

• Luxury: Le Blanc Spa Resort Cancun
• Mid-range: JW Marriott Cancun Resort & Spa
• Budget: Occidental Tucancún

For the third day of your 2 week Mexico itinerary, you can head to the outlying Isla Mujeres, the “Isle of Women”. 

Isla Mujeres is a small island that registers around 7 kilometers (4.3 miles) in length. It is accessible via a short boat ride from Gran Puerto Cancun in Puerto Juarez or from one of the jetties on the Hotel Zone if you prefer.

The island was dedicated to the goddess of fertility and love, Ixchel, and in pre-Hispanic days Mayan people would leave offerings to her on the gorgeous beaches that border the island. 

Once you reach Isla Mujeres you can hire a golf cart for the day and tour the island at leisure, stopping to swim in the turquoise waters and explore the sights. If you prefer to go with a guided tour, check out this Catamaran tour with Lunch and Open Bar !

There are plenty of opportunities to snorkel off the beaches or you can also book an excursion if you’d rather. Scuba diving is also an option if you want to factor this into your Yucatan road trip itinerary.

Some of the most popular attractions on the island include the northernmost beach of Playa Norte, the southern cliffs of Punta Sur, and MUSA which is accessible as a snorkeling or diving tour. During the summer months (May until September) it is possible to swim with the gentle whale sharks just off the island.

I have written an entire blog post dedicated to how to plan a day trip to Isla Mujeres so you can check that out for the full information on how to organize your outing.

Driving time: 2 hours 15 minutes (175 km/108 miles) from Cancun to Valladolid

Today it’s time to check out of your hotel in Cancun and truly start your Yucatan road trip itinerary! If you haven’t picked up a rental car yet, now is the time to do so.

After checking out, head straight to Valladolid which will take you around 2 hours and 15 minutes if you take the 180D highway. Although you have to pay a toll fee for using the highway (355 MXN/15 USD), I still recommend taking this road as it’s in very good shape and it will help you speed up the driving time.

One thing to note is that you won’t come across any gas stations on the highway so make sure to fill up before starting the journey!

Exploring Valladolid

The attractive city of Valladolid is rich in historical buildings that include the Convent of San Bernardino of Siena.

Constructed between 1552 and 1560 this beautiful building was originally a monastery and was the first home of the Franciscan Order in Valladolid. Step inside for the chance to see the magnificent frescoes and stately wooden altarpiece.

There is also a small museum that will fill you in on the history and archaeology of the cenotes that stud the Yucatan region. The convent is open daily, 8 am – 5 pm, and there is a small admission charge of 30 MXN (1.5 USD) if you want to go inside.

Right in the very heart of the city, you will find the Parque Principal Francisco Cantón Rosado which features an impressive statue and shaded seating areas.

If you fancy brushing up on your trivia while stocking up on treats for family and friends back home you can check out the museums that are dedicated to chocolate and tequila, both of which are a short walk from the square.

Beyond the convent and main square, you can spend the rest of your day exploring the little cobblestone streets and ducking into cafes. There are also a number of cenotes in and around Valladolid although you can save these for the next couple of days of your Yucatan Peninsula road trip.

If you’re interested in some dinner recommendations, check out the colonial restaurant and rooftop bar of El Meson del Marques for the best views (pictured below) , Restaurante El Atrio del Mayab across the park for a romantic dinner, or Restaurante Ahal for some delicious local flavors.

Where to stay in Valladolid 

Valladolid is a small city that is divided down into districts and neighborhoods. The most central of these – Sisal, San Juan, and Candelaria – put you within a short walk of the major attractions and places to eat in the town and I recommend that you select accommodation around these areas.

These are my recommendations for where to stay in Valladolid during your Yucatan road trip.

• Luxury: Hotel Posada San Juan
• Mid-range: Hotel Fundadores
• Budget: Hotel Casa Rico

Day 5: Chichen Itza & Cenote Ik Kil

Chichen itza.

Driving time: 45 minutes (42 km/26 miles) from Valladolid to Chichen Itza

For the fifth day of your 2 weeks in Yucatan you can finally tick off one of the most famous sites in the country! The archaeological site of Chichen Itza is a 40-minute drive from central Valladolid so you can visit it as a day trip. 

Built between 250 AD and 900 AD (the exact dates are hotly contested), Chichen Itza developed into a center of political and economic power during the Mayan era. By the 9th century, the rulers of Chichen Itza held power over the vast majority of the central and northern Yucatan peninsula.

The name is understood to mean “at the mouth of the well of the Itza” and it is believed that Itza is symbolic of water. Archaeologists have discovered a large cenote in the northern segment of the site which research suggests was used for human sacrifices. 

While exploring the ruins of the ancient complex you will have the opportunity to get up close to the remarkably well-preserved El Castillo Pyramid (also known as the Kukulkan Pyramid). The light from the equinox casts shadows down the steps to create the illusion of a descending serpent.

Other sites include the Great Ball Court and The Snail. This UNESCO World Heritage Site was commended as one of the “New” Seven Wonders of the World in 2007.

The complex is open daily, 8 am – 5 pm and you can purchase your tickets on site.

Admission to Chichen Itza is 533 MXN (26.2 USD) that is made up of the actual entrance fee of 80 MXN (4 USD) plus a state fee of 453 MXN (22.2 USD). You have to pay for these in separate windows and while the state fee can be paid by credit card, the entrance fee is cash only.

If you would prefer to visit Chichen Itza with a guide then it is possible to organize this from Valladolid. Certain tours also include a stop at Cenote Ik Kil but you will need to double-check that before you book. Even if you would prefer to visit independently, it is beneficial to pre-book your admission tickets in advance.

Cenote Ik Kil

Driving time: 5 minutes (3 km/1.8 miles) from Chichen Itza to Cenote Ik Kil, then 40 minutes (40 km/25 miles) back to Valladolid

After you finish exploring Chichen Itza you can head 5 minutes down the road to take a dip in the first of several cenotes of your Mexico 2 week itinerary.

Cenote Ik Kil was held sacred by the ancient Mayan civilization and is where they would go to worship their god of the rain, Chaac. Admission to Cenote Ik Kil is 150 MXN (7.3 USD) and the sinkhole is open daily, 9 am – 5 pm.

If you’ve not eaten yet, then you might want to eat lunch at the buffet next door to the cenote or pick up some refreshments from the snack bar. 

Day 6: Cenote hopping around Valladolid

If yesterday’s trip to Cenote Ik Kil gave you a flavor for subterranean swimming then you’ll be pleased to hear that you have three more to look forward to on the sixth day of your Yucatan itinerary.

Cenote Zaci, Cenote Suytun, and Cenote Chukum are all super close to Valladolid so drive time today will only come out at around one hour (32 kilometers/20 miles). If you intend to swim in all three then you’ll want to factor in at least 1-1.5 hours at each cenote. 

Cenote Zaci

Cenote Zaci is situated in the center of Valladolid so you can head there first and beat the crowds. This open cenote reaps all the benefits of the natural light that pours in from above and helps keep the environment a lush shade of green.

If you’re feeling up to the challenge, you can dive from the cliffs that reach heights of 8 meters (26 feet). Admission to Cenote Zaci is 30 MXN (1.5 USD) and it is open daily, 9 am – 5 pm.

Cenote Suytun

Driving time: 15 minutes (8.5 km/5 miles) from Valladolid to Cenote Suytun

The next cenote on your Yucatan road trip is one of the most Instagrammable places in Mexico. Cenote Suytun is characterized by its stalactites and stalagmites as well as the long walkway that takes you out into the middle of the cave where you can get a vantage point while the sun beams down from above.

The best time of day to experience the beams of sunlight is just after midday. It’s best to schedule your visit to Cenote Suytun at around noon to capture the best lighting conditions.

Factor in the rule that guests are only allowed to spend an hour at Cenote Suytun. Admission is 150 MXN (7.3 USD) and it is open daily, 9 am – 5 pm.

Cenote Chukum

Driving time: 10 minutes (7 km/4.5 miles) from Cenote Suytun to Cenote Chukum

Your final sinkhole of the day, Cenote Chukum, was named after the chukum trees that grow in the vicinity. This whopping big cenote is kitted out with three diving platforms, a rope swing, and a zipline to enhance the adventurous experience.

The entry charge is 200 MXN (9.7 USD) and the cenote is open to the public daily, 9 am – 5 pm. 

For more tips and in-depth details about visiting the cenotes, you can refer to my complete guide to the best cenotes in Yucatan . 

Dinner in Valladolid

Driving time: 25 minutes (15 km/9.5 miles) from Cenote Chukum to Valladolid

After an energetic day exploring the cenotes, you can look forward to treating yourself to a dinner in Valladolid. You can use my recommendations from the previous day or if you’re looking for something new, read on below.

Casa Conato Cultural is a laid-back bar with a menu that consists of Mexican classics as well as pizzas and light bites. The place is upbeat in the evening and it’s a great choice if you fancy staying out for a couple of drinks.

Alternatively, Le Kaat offers an extensive vegan menu that is packed with goodness in a beautiful setting.

Day 7: Cenote Oxman, Uayma & Merida

You need to check out of your Valladolid hotel this morning and drive to today’s final destination, Merida, with scenic stops at Cenote Oxman and Uayma. Driving time today comes out at around 2.5 hours (175 km/108 miles). 

Cenote Oxman

Driving time: 15 minutes (6.5 km/4 miles) from Valladolid to Cenote Oxman

Your first stop of the day is the picturesque Cenote Oxman which is a cerulean blue sinkhole in the depths of a collapsed cave. Long tendrils of tree roots and other foliage hang down over the water and there are a number of diving platforms if you’re feeling brave enough to take the plunge.

It is possible to swim in the cenote but if you do not feel like it, I still recommend that you squeeze a stop in your Yucatan road trip itinerary purely to see the spectacle for yourself and take some photos.

The admission fee for Cenote Oxman is 150 MXN (7.3 USD).

If you prefer, you can pay 250 MXN (12.2 USD) which taps on a dining experience at the Hacienda Cenote Oxman. You can decide whether to take 200 MXN (9.7 USD) in credit to put towards a meal in the restaurant or alternatively you can apply 250 MXN (12.2 USD) to the buffet spread.

Besides the cenote, the hacienda features a large open-air swimming pool. 

Driving time: 20 minutes (14.5 km/9 miles) from Cenote Oxman to Uayma

Uayma is a small town that makes a huge splash with its architecture. Make a beeline for the church and former convent of Santo Domingo de Guzmá.

Built using stones sourced from the surrounding Mayan temples, the convent was erected by the Spanish. The exterior features a kaleidoscope of motifs against the russet-hued bricks.

You can take a stroll through the streets to take in the colorful residences such as Casona Santo Domingo de Guzmán and other traditional homes. If you didn’t eat at Cenote Oxman then you can pick up a light lunch in Uayama. There are a couple of local taquerias and convenience stores in town.

Dinner in Merida

Driving time: 2 hours (170 km/105 miles) from Uayma to Merida

Now it’s time to head to your final destination today, which is going to be Merida. One thing to note is that after Uayama, you’ll need to drive up to the 180D highway again which means another toll fee. This time you’ll have to pay 196 MXN (10 USD).

Once you arrive in Merida, you’ll probably want to head straight out for dinner so you can read my recommendations below.

Rosa Sur 32 fuses together Mexican and Mediterranean cuisine to create a flavorsome, healthy, and filling dining experience in an elegant setting. The menu also highlights some of the leading dishes from the Yucatan region.

Las Vigas is situated a stone’s throw from Plaza Grande and serves affordable Mexican plates although it’s more the kind of place to go for a party atmosphere with a jovial vibe and excellent deals on drinks. 

Where to stay in Merida

Merida is the capital and largest city in the state of Yucatan. As it is somewhat bigger than the other cities featured on this Yucatan road trip, you will need to ensure your accommodation isn’t too far out of the city.

The Zocalo area is situated around the Plaza Grande and puts most of the major attractions on your doorstep. Slightly further afield, the neighborhoods of Santa Ana and Santa Lucia offer more affordable accommodations.

These are my recommendations for where to stay in Merida.

• Luxury: El Palacito Secreto Luxury Boutique Hotel & Spa
• Mid-range: Villa Orquídea Boutique Hotel
• Budget: Hotel Santa Ana

There is so much to see in Merida so it is absolutely worth dedicating a full day of your 2 week Mexico itinerary to explore the colorful sights.

This is one of the best cities for absorbing and connecting with traditional and modern Mexican culture and you can happily lose a few hours roaming the Zocolo with its vibrant haciendas and cafes.

The Plaza Principal de Mérida, or Plaza Grande, marks the heart of Merida and is where the guided walking tours usually depart from if you want to sign up to learn all about the city.

Nearby, the Parque de Santa Lucía is another attractive spot to wander and take photos and is also a meeting place for tours offered by Free Walking Tours Merida .

The leafy Plaza Grande is the setting for the Catedral de San Ildefonso, a 16th-century cathedral constructed atop a Mayan temple using bricks salvaged from the remains.

It is free to enter the cathedral where you can spot the giant crucifix that represents the unity between Spanish and Mayan heritage. 

If you’re happy to drive further out then you can check out the archaeological site of Dzibilchaltún. Meaning “writing on flat stones” this historic city is an interesting contrast in comparison with the other Mayan sites you’re visiting as while it doesn’t offer the gigantic pyramids of other destinations, the setup of the city is wholly different.

You can explore such sites as the sacbe trails, the Temple of the Dolls, and the Open Chapel which resembles an amphitheater. Admission to Dzibilchaltún is 80 MXN (4 USD) and it’s open daily 9 am – 4 pm. 

While you could easily spend an entire day touring the city’s museums, the Mayan World Museum of Merida is the best one to visit with limited time. The collection spans Mayan art, handicrafts, The museum is open Thursday to Sunday, 10 am – 5 pm, and the admission fee is 150 MXN (7.3 USD). 

If you would prefer to head to a more centrally located museum then try the Museum of the City of Merida which provides a full panorama of the city’s history from the Mayan times to the present day. This museum is open Tuesday to Friday, 9 am – 6 pm, and on weekends, 9 am – 2 pm. Admission is also 150 MXN (7.3 USD). 

Day 9: Izamal, Cobá Ruins & Tulum

This morning you can check out of your Merida hotel and tackle the longest drive on your Mexico 2 week itinerary to Tulum with stops at Izamal and the Cobá Archaeological Zone. Drive time today is around 4 hours 15 minutes (293 km/182 miles).

Driving time: 1 hour (68 km/42 miles) from Merida to Izamal

With an array of sunshine-colored buildings, Izamal earned itself the nickname of the Yellow City of the Yucatan. The city was painted yellow as the Mayans considered the region as the dwelling place of the sun god, Kinich Kakmo.

Sites to check out include the Pirámide Kinich Kakmó, one of the largest pyramids built by the Mayans in the Yucatan region. According to folklore, a deity in the form of a macaw would collect offerings left atop the monument.

The site is open daily, 8 am – 5 pm, and it is free to visit. Across the road, you can also visit the Pirámide de Itzamatul.

You can also visit the mustard-toned Convento de San Antonio and enjoy a sheltered walk along the covered colonnades. The convent is also free to visit, making IIzamal a budget-friendly addition to your Yucatan road trip.

Cobá Archeologial Site

Driving time: 2 hours 15 minutes (173 km/108 miles) from Izamal to Cob á Archeological Site

On your way to Tulum from Izamal, you can once again take advantage of the 180D highway. The toll fee is exactly the same as it was on the way to Merida, which is 196 MXN (10 USD).

Make one more stop right outside Tulum, and take a wander around the Cobá Archaeological Zone which contains the remains of an ancient Mayan city. Cobá translates to “waters ruffled by the wind” and is likely a reference to the two large lagoons on the premises.

Nohoch Mul is the star of Cobá and it is possible to climb up the 120 steps to the top of this huge pyramid for a panoramic view across the surrounding jungle. Standing at a height of 41.6 meters (137 feet), Nohoch Mul is in fact taller than the 30 meters (97.4 feet) tall El Castillo Pyramid. 

The Cobá Archaeological Zone is open daily, 9 am – 5 pm, and the admission fee is 80 MXN (4 USD). As it takes around three hours to walk around the complex in full, you might find it best to get around with a bicycle which is available for 50 MXN (2.5 USD). 

Dinner in Tulum

Driving time: 1 hour (52 km/32 miles) from Cob á Archeological Site to Tulum Beach

No doubt you’ll feel hungry when you reach Tulum and you’ll be overjoyed to hear that there is an endless supply of places to eat! The Tulum Beach Strip is brimming with options where you can find nutritious and appetizing dishes.

Head to Atila for beachside fine dining presented with a flourish or make a date at Parole Tulum if you want something romantic. The Italian menu is served to a backdrop of live violinists.

Where to stay in Tulum

When it comes to choosing where to stay in Tulum, you basically have two options: Downtown Tulum and Tulum Beach. However, within these two districts, there are sub-sections to take into consideration when selecting the best part of Tulum to stay in.

Downtown Tulum is set back from the coastline with the national park sandwiched in between. You can find dozens of restaurants, shops, and other amenities in the town and it is not an overwhelming size.

The most beautiful setting is the Tulum Beach Strip, which is an extension of the Tulum Hotel Zone.

Located around 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) from the town, this strip runs southwards from the Tulum National Park and Archaeological Park with all properties boasting seafront access.

For a quick solution, check out my top picks below for different budgets.

• Luxury: The Beach Tulum
• Mid-range: Gramercy Tulum
• Budget: Zamas Hotel

Tulum Beach is one of the most beautiful beach towns in Mexico and it’s one of the places to go for a morning stroll with your camera. The resort has sprung to fame thanks to its Instagrammable spots that pop with color.

It’s up to you whether you go for a wander and check out the Tulum Beach Strip cafes and lookouts at leisure or maybe you want to specifically plan to visit the most Instagrammable places in Tulum .

With sculptures, signs, swings, and cafes to tempt you, a couple of hours wandering around the area will provide you with months worth of content for your feed!

One of the most iconic spots is the Ven a La Luz statue that welcomes arrivals to the Ahau Resort at Tulum Beach. This 8 meters (26 feet) tall representation of a woman opening her heart gets pretty popular so you’ll want to arrive there early.

If you want to multitask your shooting then head to one of the cute cafes such as Matcha Mama or Raw Love Tulum where you can grab a nourishing yet made-for-Instagram smoothie. One of the quirkiest spots is surely the giant pink rabbit that marks the entrance to Conestesia Restaurant.

As it’s been a busy couple of days and you’re now nearing the end of your Yucatan Peninsula road trip, this afternoon you can look forward to relaxing at either your hotel, a local beach club, or the public beach.

Tulum Beach is lined with beach clubs where you can rent a bed and pamper yourself with juices, cocktails, and fresh fruit. Check out the luxurious Mía Restaurant & Beach Club or Taboo Tulum if you’re looking to indulge yourself. 

Day 11: Tulum Archaeological Zone & Cenote Hopping

After recouping your energy, today you should rise early and head out to visit the Tulum Ruins before calling in at the local cenotes. Drive time today will be approximately 1 hour (30 kilometers/18.5 miles). 

Tulum Archaeological Zone

Driving time: 15 minutes (6 km/3.7 miles) from Tulum Beach to Tulum Archaeological Zone

The Tulum Archaeological Zone is located a 15-minute drive north of the Tulum Beach Strip, within the Parque Nacional Tulum. The complex comprises the ruins of a Mayan city that rests on a bluff overlooking the Caribbean Sea.

Inhabited since 564 AD, the city was a religious and ceremonial center. Admission to the Tulum Archaeological Zone is 80 MXN (4 USD) and it’s open daily 9 am – 3.30 pm. Aim to arrive as early as possible to beat the intense midday heat. 

Cenotes around Tulum

You can spend the rest of your afternoon hopping around Tulum’s local cenotes. The ones that I have included in this 2 week Mexico itinerary are close by to one another (in fact, they’re on the same road!) and do not require too much driving.

However, if there are too many for one day, feel free to shorten my list and just visit the ones that most appeal to you. 

Cenote Calavera

Driving time: 15 minutes (7 km/4.5 miles) from Tulum Beach to Cenote Calavera

Resembling a human skull, Cenote Calavera is perhaps the spookiest sinkhole in the Yucatan. It’s fairly well hidden away and has thus far escaped the tourist scene so you might manage to have this one to yourself if you’re lucky.

The admission fee is 250 MXN (12.2 USD) plus 200 MXN (9.7 USD) if you want to take photos. It’s open daily, 9 am – 5 pm.

Gran Cenote

Driving time: 2 minutes (2.2 km/1.3 miles) from Cenote Calavera, or 20 minutes (9.5 km/6 miles) from Tulum Beach to Gran Cenote

In contrast to Cenote Calavera, the more popular Gran Cenote is composed of two sunken basins that are linked together with a series of caves.

But if the beautiful setting of Gran Cenote wasn’t enough, the water is alive with turtles and you are more or less guaranteed to spot them as well as the resident bats and birds who call the cenote home.

Admission to Gran Cenote is 300 MXN (14.6 USD) and it is open daily, 8 am – 4.45 pm. 

Cenote Aktun-Ha

Driving time: 4 minutes (4 km/2.5 miles) from Gran Cenote, or 20 minutes (13 km/8 miles) from Tulum Beach to Cenote Aktun-Ha

Cenote Aktun-Ha goes by the nickname “Cenote Car Wash” because in past years, local taxi drivers would bring their vehicles to the cenote to wash them!

This no longer is permitted and, instead, the water has returned to its former glory and Cenote Aktun-Ha has become one of the leading destinations for cenote diving in the Yucatan Peninsula. 

If you want to take photos, then Cenote Aktun-Ha is a little more pricey. The entry charge is 250 MXN (12.2 USD) but then you would need to pay an extra 150 MXN (7.3 USD) to use your camera and 150 MXN (7.3 USD) if you want to shoot with a drone.

There is also a mandatory charge of ​​30 MXN (1.5 USD) to hire a lifejacket if you want to swim in this cenote. Bear this in mind if you’re spending 2 weeks in Yucatan on a budget. 

Cenote Zacil-Ha

Driving time: 2 minutes (350 m/1,150 feet) from Cenote Aktun-Ha, or 20 minutes (13.5 km/8.5 miles) from Tulum Beach to Cenote Zacil-Ha

Cenote Zacil-Ha is right across the road from Cenote Aktun-Ha. This open cenote is shrouded by greenery and is a popular hangout for birds.

Local families tend to favor this cenote as it’s particularly family-friendly with its shallow depths of up to 10 meters (32.8 feet), the zipline, and the additional two swimming pools located within the area.

Another reason to wrap up your day at Cenote Zacil-Ha? You can get a free pedicure from the fish in the water! The admission fee for the cenote is 200 MXN (9.7 USD) plus 150 MXN (7.3 USD) if you want to use your camera. 

Day 12: Cenote Dos Ojos, Cenote Azul & Playa del Carmen

On the twelfth morning of your 2 weeks in Mexico, you can check out of your Tulum hotel and drive to Playa del Carmen. Drive time including the cenote stops equates to 1 hour 30 minutes (86 kilometers/53.5 miles). 

Cenote Dos Ojos

Driving time: 35 minutes (26 km/16 miles) from Tulum Beach to Cenote Dos Ojos

Cenote Dos Ojos, the “Two Eye Cenote”, comprises two cenotes that are connected by an underwater tunnel. You can swim in either of the two cenotes: you’ll notice that one is a vibrant shade of blue while the other is much darker.

Cenote Dos Ojos is situated close to a third cave which is home to a colony of bats but if you want to visit this one too then you’ll need to pay for a guided tour.

Entry to Cenote Dos Ojos is 350 MXN (17 USD) or you can pay 700 MXN (35 USD) for a guided tour which includes the bat cave. The cenote is open daily, 8 am – 5 pm.

Cenote Azul

Driving time: 30 minutes (30 km/18.5 miles) from Cenote Dos Ojos to Cenote Azul

If you want to experience some of the best cenote snorkeling conditions during your Yucatan Peninsula road trip, you’ll want to visit Cenote Azul.

The “blue cenote” is alive with corals and plentiful aquatic life. Adventurous souls might want to jump from the cliffs to the watery depths below.

The entry fee for Cenote Azul is 120 MXN (5.8 USD) and it is open daily, 8.30 am – 5.30 pm.

Dinner in Playa del Carmen 

Driving time: 30 minutes (30 km/18.5 miles) from Cenote Azul to Playa del Carmen

Once in Playa del Carmen you can drop off your rental and head out for dinner in town.

El Fogon is one of the most popular restaurants in town and although you can expect a line to greet you the food is absolutely worth the wait. The menu features all your favorite Mexican dishes plus a generous drinks menu to wash your fajitas down with.

If you fancy a change from Mexican food you can check out Luma Taverna Del Mar which specializes in fresh seafood prepared with a Mediterranean influence. 

Where to stay in Playa del Carmen 

Situated in the state of Quintana Roo, the resort town of Playa del Carmen is part of the Yucatan Peninsula’s Riviera Maya strip of Caribbean shoreline. It’s a fraction larger than Tulum but smaller and less busy than Cancun.

Much of the action within the Centro district revolves around Quinta Avenida which bustles with street food stalls, restaurants, and stores where you can pick up locally made souvenirs.

South of Centro, Playacar is the setting for the most luxurious beach resorts, while to the north you will find more affordable options and family-friendly resorts. Below you can find my top picks for where to stay in Playa del Carmen.

• Luxury: Andaz Mayakoba
• Mid-range: Wyndham Alltra Playa del Carmen
• Budget: Singular Joy Vacation Rentals

How you spend your day in Playa del Carmen is going to depend on your personal preferences and how much you are prepared to spend.

You might want to seize the moment to spend a final day at one of the best beaches in Playa del Carmen , visit a few more cenotes or adventure parks, or spend your day cafe hopping and picking up mementos on Quinta Avenida.

Cenotes & Beaches

If you haven’t had your fill of cenotes then there are a couple of options close to the town that you can check out including Cenote Chaak Tun and Cenote Cristalino. In case you’re looking for an adventure, you can try out this Riviera Maya buggy tour with cenote swim !

In terms of beaches, most of the beachfront at Playa del Carmen is occupied by resorts and beach clubs that you will need to pay to hire a bed at if your chosen accommodation isn’t on the sand.

Mamita’s Beach Club is a swanky option and you can offset the higher fee towards the cost of food and drink. The lively Lido Beach Club is a more affordable option where you can rent a chair or a bed and again part of the rental fee goes towards any food or drinks.

If you want to get a final burst of excitement to conclude your Yucatan road trip then you could drive to one of the nearby adventure parks. There are three options to choose between: Xcaret, Xel-Ha, and Xplor.

Xcaret is the most well-known of the parks and draws together adrenaline activities with cultural pursuits. The park contains three underground rivers, a beach, and natural wells.

You can also visit the Coral Reef Aquarium, the Butterfly House, and the Aviary, and catch cultural dances and performances. Tickets to Xcaret start at 2,078 MXN (103 USD). 

Xel-Ha is your one-stop shop for snorkeling, river tubing, gentle hiking, and the exploration of cenotes, caverns, and jungle.

Together, Xcaret and Xel-Ha are the most appropriate options for families with younger children but both parks appeal to all types of travelers due to the scope of activities and nature sights. Admission to Xel-Ha starts at 1,889 MXN (94 USD). 

For those seeking the highest level of thrill, Xplor features two zip line routes that fly you over the top of the canopy and deposit you in the cooling waters. You can also swim through subterranean rivers and drive jeeps through the jungle. Admission to Xplor starts at 2,456 MXN (122 USD). 

Day 14: Return to Cancun

Driving time: 45 minutes (55 km/34 miles) from Playa del Carmen to Cancun Airport

It’s the final day of your trip and all that is left to do on your Yucatan road trip itinerary is squeeze in one final trip to the pool at your Playa del Carmen resort, check out of your hotel, and drive back to Cancun for your flight.

Drive time from Playa del Carmen to Cancun International Airport is 45-60 minutes (55 kilometers/34 miles). Make sure to leave plenty of time for this road as it can get quite busy and missing your flight is not the best way to end your 2 weeks in Mexico!

Useful Info for Your Yucatan Road Trip

How to get to yucatan.

You can access the Yucatan Peninsula by a number of international airports including Cancun (CUN), Cozumel (CZM), and Mérida (MID), all of which are well connected to Mexico City and international destinations.

However, for the purpose of this 2 week Mexico itinerary I suggest that you fly in and out of Cancun International Airport in the state of Quintana Roo.

As one of the largest and busiest airports in the region – Latin America’s third and Mexico’s second busiest airport to be precise – Cancun is well served by international flights from the US, Europe, and beyond.

If connections work out better you can also choose to fly into Mexico City International Airport (MEX) and then transfer to Cancun from there. Flight times from Mexico City to Cancun take approximately 2 hours 30 minutes. 

From Cancun International Airport you’re looking at a 20-minute transfer downtown or to the Zona Hotelera (Hotel Zone). 

Best time to visit the Yucatan Peninsula

The best time to plan your Yucatan Peninsula road trip is between December and April. This is when the weather is at its driest and temperatures are most comfortable. Even though this is coined as the “winter” period, daytime temperatures never drop below 20°C (68°F).

The summer months of May and onwards bring hotter temperatures and the onset of the rainy season where heavy rainfall is to be expected. This can prevent access to certain sites on your Yucatan itinerary and will make the driving conditions more dangerous so it’s best to avoid traveling during these months.

Remember to plan your trip for early November if you hope to experience some of the Día de los Muertos celebrations.

Driving tips for Yucatan

The Yucatan is fortunate to comprise flat paved roads that are safe, well-maintained, and perfectly pleasant to drive.

As with the US and most European countries, you must drive on the right-hand side of the road. The minimum age to rent a car in Mexico is 21 but drivers under the age of 25 are subject to paying higher fees.

Once you’re behind the wheel, driving in the region is a straightforward affair and the locals are used to sharing their roads with international tourists. To ensure you don’t encounter any surprises on your Yucatan road trip, these are a couple of rules and customs to be familiar with:

• If your vacation falls within the rainy season be mindful that the heavy downpours will hinder your progress. Check that your windscreen wipers work well and try to avoid driving during storms and the heaviest rains. 
• Check your tire pressure as driving at faster speeds on these hot asphalt roads can cause blow-outs.
• All gas stations in the Yucatan Peninsula are staffed by attendants and it is customary to leave a small tip of around 10 MXN (0.5 USD). Check that they have set the pump to “zero” before they start. 
• Check the locations of gas stations and plan your gas stops in advance. There are lots of long roads where you’ll find no gas stations, for example between Cancun and Valladolid, so it’s important to have enough fuel for the drive.
• You can generally park everywhere but always avoid the yellow and red curbs in the major cities as these forbid parking.
• Do not leave your valuables in your rental when sightseeing. Theft is rare but it can happen. Some of the cenotes have lockers where you can safely leave your important documents but always leave them at hotels where the itinerary makes this possible. 
• Hopefully, you will not need this during your Yucatan Peninsula road trip but in case you do encounter a breakdown, make a note of the number for the Green Angels [Ángeles Verdes]. This is a free service and they are available at 01-800-987-8224.

Planning a trip to Mexico?

Then you might want to take a look at all our other travel guides about Mexico. I promise, they are just as awesome as this article was!

Yucatan Peninsula:

• 12 Best Cenotes in Yucatan You Can’t Miss
• 16 Best Tulum Instagram Spots for Epic Photos
• The Perfect Day Trip to Isla Mujeres from Cancun: All You Need to Know
• Luxurious Beach Vacation: JW Marriott Cancun Resort & Spa Hotel Review

Mexico City:

• 7 Best Areas to Stay in Mexico City for Every Budget
• How to See the Best of Mexico City in One Day
• The Ultimate 3 Days in Mexico City Itinerary

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