The ultimate Cancun Travel Guide: All You Need to Know to Plan Your Trip

This Cancun Travel Guide is both your site map and your bible regarding everything in Cancun. It’s a summary of all the information in this Cancun Travel Blog and a go-to resource for the latest information on traveling to Cancun.

Cancun is one of the most popular Mexican beach vacation destinations, along with Los Cabos. Renowned mostly as a spring-breakers destination, Cancun is much more than that, and below I will show you all the amazing natural attractions and tours Cancun has to offer.

I have been living in Cancun for over a decade now. Although I am always traveling around Mexico, I still consider Cancun my home, which is why I suggest you stick around if you want to get fresh insider news about Cancun. 😎

I suggest you browse this site, where I continuously post information about Cancun. If you want to save time, check out this Cancun City Guide, which is a summary of the site’s content.

Traveling to Cancun at a Glance

Where is Cancun Located?

Cancun is located at the northern tip of the Mexican Caribbean Coast, in the state of Quintana Roo, one of the three states that make up the Yucatán Peninsula.

It borders the Yucatán state on the northwest side, the Campeche state on the southwest side, and Belize on the south.

Distances to the main destinations in the Yucatan Peninsula

Cancun to Playa del Carmen – 68 km / 42 miles
Cancun to Tulum – 131 km / 81 miles
Cancun to Valladolid – 156 km / 96 miles
Cancun to Holbox – 139 km / 86
Cancun to Merida – 303 km / 188

Also read: Time in Cancun

Things you should know before you go to Cancun

Currency: Mexican Pesos 1 USD = 19 MXN (approx)

Where to exchange money in Cancun – Avoid exchanging your currency at the airport or in your hotel. The best place to do it is a bank or an exchange bureau. There are many commercial plazas in the Zona Hotelera.

Main Airport: Cancun International Airport (CUN)

The most commonly used plug is an electric socket with two flat parallel pins, just like in the US. However, if you are coming from another country, you will need a universal travel adaptor.

Mexico Visa – If your country is not listed on this page, you can enter Mexico without a visa as a tourist. Otherwise, you will need to apply for a visa. Since every country is different, you should consult the Mexican consulate or embassy in your country.

Mexican SIM Card– I would recommend buying a Mexican SIM CARD for many reasons. Primarily because staying connected is a way to stay safe, and also because you can be reachable by your family and friends all the time (unless you don’t want to 😜), and you can share your beautiful vacation on your social)

Language Spoken—Although Spanish is the official language, and some prehispanic dialects are still spoken in some communities, English is widely spoken among those in the tourism business.

Related posts

► Is Cancun in the Caribbean? Cancun fun facts

How to Get to Cancun

Cancun International Airport is the second most trafficked airport in Mexico after Mexico City with 22.3 million passengers flying through it in 2021.

From the US, you can connect with the major airlines from the most popular hubs, while from Europe, you can also take charter flights from Spain, Italy, Germany, and Belgium.

I always recommend checking on Expedia for flights only or, even more conveniently, packages with flights and hotels.

How to Move Around in Cancun

Unfortunately, there is no Uber in Cancun for many reasons, which I will explain in a dedicated post. Therefore, if you want to move around, there are different options, which I am going to list below.

Getting from Cancun Airport to your Hotel

↳ Private Shuttle | The best option is booking a private shuttle with a recommended company, such as Cancun Airport transportation service, from 39 USD/65 USD round trip (up to 3 people).

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↳ Shared Shuttle | best budget option. The downside is that you will have to wait for other passengers and for the drop-off, especially if your hotel is the last one on the route. But for only 10 USD it may be worth it. Book it here!

↳ Car Rental | This is my favorite option as you can pick up your car at the airport and drop it off at the end of your vacation so you will be free to explore Cancun and its surroundings at your own pace. Check rates on DiscoverCars

↳ ADO public bus | If you travel on a budget, you can always rely on ADO (5 USD), which may involve a long wait, but it will take you to Cancun Downtown. From there, you will necessarily need a taxi.

↳ Taxi | A taxi from the Airport may cost something like 50 USD. I would not recommend this option because taxi drivers will always try to overcharge, especially at the airport.

A quick peek into Cancun-to-Hotel transportation options

Getting from Cancun to Anywhere

As I mentioned before, Cancun is a massive city with the Hotel Zone separated from downtown by the Nichupte lagoon. With the exception of a nice sidewalk along the hotel zone, the city is not walkable at all, and you need transportation to move around. So let’s see what is the best way.

✔️ Renting a Car – again, the best way to move around in Cancun and to reach the best attractions and nearby cities such as Tulum, Playa del Carmen, Valladolid, and more, having your own car is the best option. DiscoverCars is the platform I recommend where to look for the cheapest car rentals.

If you are concerned about renting a Car and driving in Cancun I have got you covered. It’s very easy and worry-free, especially after reading my guide 😉

✔️ Local city buses – From the Cancun hotel area to downtown, you can easily hop on the R1 and R2 buses that run along the strip, but once you get to Cancun Downtown, using local transportation is kind of a mess, and I would not recommend it.

✔️ ADO bus service – It’s a very efficient and cost-effective way to get from Cancun to almost anywhere, and although it is not as comfortable as driving your own car, the buses are brand new and clean. The service is also relatively cheap and connects you with all the major cities in the Yucatan peninsula and the entire of Mexico.

✔️ Colectivo (minivan) – if you want to try the local way and the cheapest one, you can use the colectivos (minivans) to get to either Playa del Carmen, Tulum, or Chiquila (Holbox). They leave from Tulum Av. opposite the ADO Bus station.

To get to Tulum, you will need to get off in Playa and then hop on another colectivo to Tulum.

When is the best time to visit Cancun

In Cancun, there are mainly two seasons: the wet season ( summer) and the dry season (winter). There are some transition weeks between the two main seasons, which are called shoulder seasons. Let’s see what each of them looks like.

💦 Cancun wet season (summer) -The wet season starts approximately in June and lasts until October. At this time of year, the temperature is higher, and there is a higher chance of rain and even hurricanes (that is why it’s also called hurricane season).

However, the sea water is warmer, and prices go slightly down. It is also called the Low season, although it’s not entirely so because there is still a good influx of tourists, especially families, due to school closure.

This is also when the sargasso is most likely to show up.

☀️ December through April (winter) – This is the dry season, characterized by mild temperatures, sunny days, and blue skies. The water temperature is cooler. Although there is less chance of rain, you can still find a few showers. This is the high season, because of the beautiful weather. Prices are at their highest, especially in December and Holy Week.

😎 After Easter – beginning of June (shoulder season) – This is generally the best time to travel to Cancun, in my opinion, because the prices are at their lowest, there are fewer crowds, and the water starts getting warmer.

We are still in the dry season, slowly sliding into the wet season, but the weather should still be nice for the most part. I say “should” because you can never be sure about the weather.

⛈ Mid-October – November (shoulder season) – This is another so-called shoulder season when the weather is the worst. The temperatures are at their highest, it’s most likely to rain, and the risk of a hurricane is even greater. But it can also be sunny and nice.

This time of the year is really unpredictable. The only thing you can be sure of is that it’s hot and humid. Sea temperatures are the warmest of the year, and water temperatures are pleasant. Sargasso is going away (🥳) and the beach is cleaning up for the dry season!

The lower rates and fewer crowds make this season a still-interesting time to travel to Cancun.

When is the best time to travel to Cancun? Check out my detailed article to learn more.

I will talk about Cancun Weather, events, and things to do for each month in specific posts.

Cancun Trip Cost Breakdown

Is Cancun expensive? It depends on how you travel. Below is a breakdown of average costs for 2025 to help you budget.

Money Saving Tip: Always pay in Mexican Pesos (MXN). Establishments often use a poor exchange rate (e.g., 18:1) if you pay in USD, whereas the bank rate might be 20:1.

Top 10 Things to Do in Cancun

Replace your current bulleted list with this detailed list. It keeps users on your page longer.

1. Visit Chichen Itza (World Wonder)

The most famous Mayan ruin in the world is just 2.5 hours from Cancun.

• Why go: To see the iconic El Castillo pyramid and the Great Ball Court.
• Cost: Entrance is approx. $614 MXN (~$35 USD) for foreigners.
• Pro Tip: Arrive at 8:00 AM sharp to beat the tour buses and the heat.
• Read our full Chichen Itza Guide >

2. Swim in a Cenote

Cenotes are natural limestone sinkholes filled with fresh, crystal-clear water. They are unique to the Yucatan Peninsula.

• Best near Cancun: Ruta de los Cenotes (near Puerto Morelos) has dozens of options like Cenote Siete Bocas or Verde Lucero.
• Cost: $200 – $500 MXN ($10 – $25 USD) entrance fee.
• See the Best Cenotes near Cancun >

3. Take a Ferry to Isla Mujeres

A charming island just 20 minutes by ferry from the Hotel Zone. Famous for Playa Norte, one of the best beaches in the world.

• Getting there: Take the Ultramar ferry from Puerto Juarez or the Hotel Zone ($25 USD round-trip).
• Must do: Rent a golf cart ($50-60 USD/day) and drive around the island.
• Full Isla Mujeres Guide >

4. Explore the Cancun Underwater Museum (MUSA)

Over 500 life-sized sculptures are submerged underwater to promote coral growth.

• How to see it: You can snorkel, scuba dive, or take a glass-bottom boat.
• Cost: Tours start around $50 USD.
• Read more about MUSA in our Diving Guide >

5. Party at Coco Bongo

More than just a club, it’s a Las Vegas-style show with acrobats, impersonators, and non-stop entertainment.

• Tickets: Start around $80-100 USD (includes open bar).
• Location: Heart of the Hotel Zone party center.
• Read our Coco Bongo Guide >

6. Relax at Playa Delfines (El Mirador)

The most famous public beach in Cancun, known for its bright blue water and the colorful “CANCUN” sign.

• Note: The waves can be strong here, so swim with caution.
• Cost: Free! (Umbrellas available for rent).
• Read our full Playa Delfines Guide >

7. Day Trip to Tulum Ruins

The only Mayan city built right on the coast. The view of the ruins against the turquoise Caribbean sea is iconic.

• Distance: 2 hours south of Cancun.
• Combine with: A visit to Gran Cenote or Playa Paraiso.
• Read more about Tulum Ruins >

8. Catamaran Cruise to Isla Mujeres

A full-day party on a boat with open bar, snorkeling stops, and free time on the island.

• Vibe: Fun, social, and sun-soaked.
• Cost: $60 – $100 USD, depending on the boat size and inclusions.
• See the Best Boat Tours >

9. Mercado 28 (Downtown Shopping)

A massive maze of stalls selling handicrafts, souvenirs, and local food.

• What to buy: Silver jewelry, hand-painted pottery, and hammocks.
• Warning: You must haggle here. Never accept the first price!
• Read our Shopping Guide >

10. Xcaret Park

An “eco-archaeological” theme park that is basically the Disneyland of Mexico. Underground rivers, animals, beach, and a spectacular night show.

• Cost: Expensive ($100+ USD) but worth it for a full-day experience.
• Read our Xcaret Parks Guide >

Top Tours in Cancun

There are so many activities and tours to join in Cancun that it’s almost difficult to choose. Here I am including the most popular tours from Cancun with the highest review rate. I hope it helps you narrow down your choice. More articles will follow! 🙂

Click on the image or text below to check rates and info of the tour ⤵️

Get your GoCity Cancun Pass

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Or read the Gocity Cancun Pass Review to learn more about the City pass!

Related articles

👉 The best 12 private tours from Cancun
👉 Contoy Island top tours

Do not miss visiting El Cuyo, Yucatan, one of the less crowded alternative to the busy Cancun. It’s only 2-hour drive from Cancun. Read my article for more info.

Where to Stay: Quick Picks

• See our Full List of Best All Inclusive Adult only Resorts in Cancun >
• See our Full List of Best All Inclusive Family Resorts in Cancun >
• See our Full List of Best Hostels in Cancun for a budget stay >

Don’t have time to read the complete guide? Here are our top picks for every budget

🏆 Best Luxury: Live Aqua Beach Resort All Inclusive Adult only

• Vibe: Secluded elegance, private balconies with plunge pools, and world-class dining.
• Best for: Adults and luxury travelers who want to escape the crowds.
• Location: km 12, near Plaza La Isla

➡️ Check out Live Aqua Beach Resort All Inclusive Adult only

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Best for Families: Hyatt Ziva Cancun All Inclusive

• Vibe: Surrounded on three sides by the Caribbean Sea. Incredible kids club, dolphin habitat, and calm beaches for swimming.
• Best for: Families with kids of all ages.
• Location: Punta Cancun (Heart of Hotel Zone).

➡️ Check out Hyatt Ziva Cancun All Inclusive

🥳 Best Party Hostel: Mayan Monkey

• Vibe: High-energy, lagoon views, and a massive bar/pool area. Great for meeting people.
• Best for: Solo travelers and party-goers.
• Location: Hotel Zone (Walking distance to clubs).

➡️ Check out Mayan Monkey

💰 Best Budget Hotel: Selina Cancun Downtown

• Vibe: Hip, co-working friendly, and central.
• Best for: Digital nomads and budget travelers who want to explore local food.
• Location: Downtown Cancun (near the ADO bus station).

➡️ Check out Selina Cancun Downtown

Where to Eat in Cancun

The Culinary scene in Cancun is very eclectic, although I believe there are still too many real Mexican restaurants compared to other parts of Mexico.

However, some are worth mentioning besides the incredible international cuisine, fine dining, and healthy spots.

As a Cancun resident, I have tried quite a lot of restaurants, and although I continue to try new ones every time I go back, it’s challenging to keep up with all the new spots.

I have published a full article on the best restaurants in Cancun that I invite you to read. Below are my top three spots!

Puerto Santo Laguna Sunset

The same owner of Puerto Santo restaurant in Puerto Juarez opened a new one on the Hotel Zone right in front of the lagoon.

The menu is similar, with international cuisine focusing on seafood. It’s located on an overwater deck with a stunning view of the Nichupte lagoon.

Address – Blvd. Kukulcán Km 13.5, Zona Hotelera, 77500 Cancún, Q.R.

Mu. Burger House

Mu has become one of my favorite places to dine in Cancun. They have two spots now but I loved the one on the Av. Nichupte.

The food is delicious, and if you are a vegan, worry not—they have you covered as well with their delicious lentil burger.

Their menu includes other exciting options besides burgers.

It’s definitely a place that I love to go back to over and over without getting tired of it.

Address #1 — Nichupte, SM 51 MZ 51 LOTE 11, 77533 Cancún, Q.R., Mexico

Contact Number — +52 (998) 1382813

Address #1 — Av Carlos Nader 44, 2A, 77500 Cancún, Q.R., Mexico

Contact Number — +529981746115

Socio Naiz

Socio Naiz is one of the coolest spots in Cancun for delicious tacos and comfort food with a twist. The place has a fun, modern vibe, and the menu goes way beyond the usual taco choices.

Address — Av. Huayacán 130, 77560 Cancún, Q.R., Mexico
Contact Number — +52 (998) 6898735

La Fonda del Zancudo

This one feels like eating in someone’s garden — super charming and tucked away from the chaos. The food is creative without being over-the-top, and everything tastes fresh and homemade. It’s great for a relaxed dinner with good wine and good company. The vibe alone makes it worth going back.

Address — Calle 18 Nte 113, SM 25, 77509 Cancún, Q.R., Mexico
Contact Number — +52 (998) 8844535

Thai (at La Isla Shopping Village)

Thai is perfect when you want good food with a gorgeous lagoon setting. The restaurant is decorated like a tropical hideaway, with wooden huts over the lagoon, so it feels special even if you’re just stopping by for a casual dinner. The curry dishes and the spring rolls are favorites, and the whole place is perfect for a date night or a nice evening out.

Address — Blvd. Kukulcán Km 12.5, La Isla, Hotel Zone, Cancún, Q.R.
Contact Number — +52 (998) 1768070

El Pocito

El Pocito is a classic Yucatecan spot, simple, affordable, and packed with flavor. If you want to try traditional dishes like poc chuc pate, cochinita, or papadzules, this is one of the best places in town. Locals love it, and once you eat there, you’ll understand why. It’s casual, authentic, and consistently good.

PRO TIP: The place is safe but it’s located in a shady area, so it’s best to go with a taxi and avoid walking around.

Address — C. 57 86, SM 59, 77518 Cancún, Q.R., Mexico
Contact Number — +52 (998) 8841254

WHAT TO PACK FOR CANCUN

Packing for Cancun is easy, especially if you plan a beach-focused vacation, in which case you can pack light. Things may change if you want to venture out and explore, which I always recommend.

Below, find what you MUST include in your suitcase. I will write separate posts with more detailed packing list suggestions, with some cute dresses, and Cancun outfit ideas for the ladies.

Keep in mind that although you are going to a beach destination where the dress code is usually relaxed, it’s not the case if you are going to a luxury resort, where you are required to dress up in many restaurants at night, and in fact, the ambiance calls for it as well. Check out my posts linked above where I cover all of that.

CANCUN TRAVEL COSTS & BUDGET GUIDE

Cancun can work for any budget, from backpacker to full luxury.
On average, you’ll spend $50–80/day on a tight budget, $150–250/day for a mid-range trip, and $350+ if you prefer upscale stays and tours.

Accommodation ranges from cheap hostels downtown to high-end beachfront resorts in the Hotel Zone. Food is as affordable as $1 tacos if you eat downtown, while Hotel Zone restaurants and fine dining can easily push meals to $40–100+. Transportation is cheap if you stick to local buses and colectivos, but taxis and airport transfers add up fast. Renting a car costs about $30–60/day plus insurance.

Activities go from free beach days to $60–120 tours, with premium experiences like Xcaret, whale shark tours, or yacht charters costing more. Nightlife also varies widely, from cheap beers downtown to $80–100 club entries in the Hotel Zone.

You can save a lot by eating local, using buses, staying downtown, booking activities ahead of time, and visiting during shoulder season (especially May and November).

In short: Cancun is as cheap or as luxurious as you want it to be — it all depends on where you stay, how you move around, and the kind of experiences you go for.

SAFETY IN CANCUN

When traveling to the Mexican state of Quintana Roo, where Cancun is located, the US Travel Advisory site suggests “Exercise Increased Caution”. It also says:

“There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Quintana Roo state, which includes tourist areas in Cancun, Cozumel, Isla Mujeres, Playa del Carmen, Tulum, and the Riviera Maya. However, personnel is advised to exercise increased situational awareness after dark in downtown areas of Cancun, Tulum, and Playa del Carmen and to remain in well-lit pedestrian streets and tourist zones. “

Also, considering the 22.5 million passengers that flew into Cancun International Airport in 2021, as I mentioned above, I would say that Cancun is indeed a safe place to travel.

Bad things have happened before, and I cannot promise they will never happen again, but they are usually drug and cartel-related, so if you keep out of that circle, you should be fine.

Then there is the usual small crime and petty theft, which you will find everywhere. So make sure you use some common sense, and you should be fine.

Also, you need to consider the following to avoid getting sick or robbed

► Don’t drink tap water

► Use mosquito spray to protect yourself from bites (even the dangerous ones, see below)

► Always stay hydrated, especially in the summer, but really, always!

► Use sun protector except for when you are in a cenote or in the sea because they damage the environment (use a rough guard in that case, instead)

► Don’t swim in the water when the flag is red – Cancun sea is beautiful but it can be dangerous as there are a lot of undertows and rip tides, which is why is also a great place for surfing in Mexico

► Don’t pay in US dollars even if they are accepted because the exchange rate would be a rip-off.

► Don’t stay in your hotel all the time, go out and explore (but only after reading this Cancun Travel Blog blog and learning your way around:)

► Don’t buy tours from street vendors. Some of them may be ok, but you never know, and if you have an issue, you may not find them again to report it.

► Don’t get wasted, especially if you are out alone.

► Get travel insurance before traveling.

Related posts

👉 Cancun Solo traveler complete guide
👉 Is Cancun safe to travel to?
👉 Can you drink water in Cancun?

Do I need travel insurance to travel to Cancun?

Yes, you do! I always recommend getting travel insurance before starting a trip, mainly for peace of mind.

Of course, we hope nothing happens, but no matter how cautious we are, many circumstances are beyond our control. We can fall victim, such as a flight delay a missing bag, or even a sudden flue that makes us miss the flight and lose loads of money that we have been saving for a year for our lifetime trip.

I am just giving examples. There are good hospitals in Mexico in case something happens but they are pricey. Good travel insurance will cover all of it.

Travel insurance is the only thing I buy, hoping I never have to use it. 😂 And it’s the only purchase for which I am happy to say that I have “thrown away the money,” but for the peace of mind it gives me, it’s all worth it.

If you ask me, I have two recommended sites, one is SafetyWings, which I find relatively affordable and quite comprehensive.

However, there is also a Travel Insurance master site that will help you find the perfect insurance for you.

You fill out the form with information about your profile and requirements, and they will select the insurance company that is a good fit.

CANCUN TRAVEL GUIDE FAQ

Can you brush your teeth with tap water?

Yes, you can, but I would advise against it to prevent any unpleasant bathroom situation.

Can you drink the water in Cancun?

No. Use bottled water or buy a water bottle to refill.

How many days in Cancun is enough?

It really depends on what kind of vacation you are looking for. If you just want to relax on the beach in your hotel, 4 or 5 days are more than enough.

If you love to explore, 1 to 2 weeks, depending on how much time you have. You can do so many things in Cancun and its surroundings that you will find plenty of things to keep you entertained.

Is it ok to travel to Cancun right now?

Yes, of course, it is more than okay. Just check the weather, the hotel rates, and our guide on when is the best time to travel to Cancun to make sure the weather conditions fit your needs.

What month is the best to go to Cancun?

Check out the WHEN TO VISIT session of this post, where I talk about it extensively.

What you should know before traveling to Cancun?

✔️ Pre-book your airport transfer

Cancun International Airport is a mess. Trust me, when you get out, you find your guy with your name on a board, it will make you feel relieved and at home.

I always recommend Cancun airport transport because it is reliable, and you can be sure somebody is waiting for you.

You won’t have to negotiate the rate or struggle to understand each other because they speak English. Their fleet is impeccably clean, and they have insurance.

The transfer is private, so once you arrive, you are off to your hotel with no waiting. This is how I love to travel.

✔️ Pay in pesos whenever possible; tip in pesos too

US dollars are generally accepted everywhere (except gas stations and toll roads), but it’s always better to exchange money at a bank or a Casa de Cambio (not at the airport) and pay in pesos; otherwise, you will pay way more.

✔️ Choose the right hotel for your budget

I have listed my top hotels in this Cancun Travel Guide, but I will write more about the best Cancun hotels, so stay tuned.

✔️ Don’t spend all your time on the beach

As I mentioned before, there is so much to do in Cancun that it’s a shame to spend all your time on the beach; try to make at least one or two tours during your stay. You won’t regret it.

✔️ And take it easy with the sun

Remember, we are in the Caribbean, where the sun is strong, even behind the clouds. So, whether you go to the beach or out exploring, remember to use good sunscreen.

✔️ Sign up for tours to nearby destinations

Unless you are renting a car, which I recommend, there are so many amazing tours to choose from. Do not miss them.

How much money should I bring to Cancun, Mexico?

Well, that depends on what you are planning to spend. Remember that for major expenses, you can use credit cards; Visa and MasterCard are widely accepted.

For souvenirs, toll roads, snacks, and tips, it’s advisable to have cash.

Why is Cancun considered so dangerous

Cancun is not considered dangerous. To learn more about the topic, read my full article on safety in Cancun.

Is it safe to drive from Cancun to Playa del Carmen at night

I never recommend driving at night. You never know what can happen. Even a simple flat tire can become an issue if it occurs at night in the middle of nowhere.

For what kind of traveler is Cancun?

Cancun is the perfect destination for all sorts of travelers on any budget, and for any type of vacation, you plan to have. Its spectacular beach can also be a great base for more adventurous travelers.

Honeymooners and spring breakers alike, families, and solo travelers will love what Cancun offers, especially after reading this guide.

Comparing Cancun to Other Destinations

One of the most frequently asked questions is, “Is it better to travel to Cancun or…?” In this section, you will find some interesting posts on how Cancun compares to many popular beach vacation destinations. Please bear with me as I add more and more places.