Cancún, Mexico-6-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Beach Time

Morning

  • Arrive at Cancun International Airport (CUN)
  • Take a taxi or shuttle to your hotel in the Hotel Zone (Zona Hotelera)

Afternoon

  • Check-in to your hotel, such as the Hyatt Zilara Cancun or The Grand Park Royal Cancun
  • Spend the afternoon relaxing on the beach at Playa Delfines, one of the most popular beaches in Cancun
  • Take a dip in the crystal-clear waters and enjoy the sun, sand, and scenery

Evening

  • Head to La Parroquia, a lively restaurant serving traditional Mexican cuisine
  • Try their famous tacos al pastor and enjoy the live music and vibrant atmosphere
  • Explore the nearby Party Center Cancun, where you’ll find bars, clubs, and shops

Tips

  • Be sure to exchange your currency to Mexican pesos (MXN) at the airport or a local bank
  • Don’t drink tap water; stick to bottled or filtered water
  • Learn some basic Spanish phrases, such as “gracias” (thank you) and “¿dónde está…?” (where is…)

Day 2: Chichen Itza and Valladolid

Morning

  • Take a guided tour to Chichen Itza, one of the Seven Wonders of the World ( approx. 2 hours from Cancun)
  • Explore the ancient Mayan ruins, including the Pyramid of Kukulkan and the Temple of Warriors

Afternoon

  • Visit the charming colonial town of Valladolid, known for its colorful buildings and rich history
  • Stop by the Convent of San Bernardino de Siena, a beautiful 16th-century convent
  • Try some local specialties, such as cochinita pibil (slow-roasted pork) and papadzules (tortillas stuffed with hard-boiled eggs)

Evening

  • Return to Cancun and enjoy dinner at La Casa de las Enchiladas, a cozy restaurant serving traditional Yucatecan cuisine
  • Explore the Avenida Tulum, a lively street filled with shops, bars, and restaurants

Transportation

  • Book a guided tour that includes transportation from Cancun to Chichen Itza and Valladolid
  • Alternatively, rent a car or take a bus (ADO) from Cancun to Valladolid and then to Chichen Itza

Day 3: Isla Mujeres

Morning

  • Take a ferry from Puerto Juarez to Isla Mujeres, a picturesque island located just off the coast of Cancun
  • Rent a golf cart or bike to explore the island

Afternoon

  • Visit the Tortugranja, a sea turtle sanctuary and rehabilitation center
  • Relax on the beautiful beaches, such as Playa Norte or Playa Sol
  • Snorkel or swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Mesoamerican Reef

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Lola Valentina, a stylish restaurant serving seafood and international cuisine
  • Watch the sunset at the island’s southern tip, Punta Sur

Tips

  • Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun
  • Be respectful of the island’s environment and wildlife

Day 4: Coba Ruins and Tulum

Morning

  • Take a guided tour to Coba Ruins, an ancient Mayan city located deep in the jungle (approx. 2 hours from Cancun)
  • Explore the ruins, including the Nohoch Mul pyramid and the Sacbesob Road

Afternoon

  • Visit the stunning beach town of Tulum, known for its dramatic coastline and ancient Mayan ruins
  • Explore the Tulum National Park, which features several beaches, ruins, and a scenic coastal road

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at El Caminante, a cozy restaurant serving seafood and Mexican cuisine
  • Watch the sunset from the beach or a cliffside bar

Transportation

  • Book a guided tour that includes transportation from Cancun to Coba Ruins and Tulum
  • Alternatively, rent a car or take a bus (ADO) from Cancun to Tulum and then to Coba Ruins

Day 5: Xel-Ha Park and Playa del Carmen

Morning

  • Visit Xel-Ha Park, a natural aquarium featuring an array of marine life
  • Snorkel or swim in the park’s crystal-clear waters and enjoy the scenic surroundings

Afternoon

  • Head to Playa del Carmen, a lively beach town located just south of Cancun
  • Explore the Quinta Avenida, a pedestrian street filled with shops, restaurants, and bars
  • Relax on the beautiful beaches, such as Playa Mamitas or Playa Punta Esmeralda

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at La Bodeguita del Medio, a lively restaurant serving Mexican cuisine and live music
  • Explore the nearby Xcacel-Xcacelito, a scenic beach with a lighthouse and stunning sunsets

Tips

  • Be sure to book your tickets for Xel-Ha Park in advance, as they often sell out quickly
  • Bring insect repellent to protect yourself from mosquitoes and other bugs

Day 6: Departure

Morning

  • Spend the morning relaxing at your hotel or exploring the nearby area
  • Check-out of your hotel and head to the airport for your departure flight

Tips

  • Be sure to check the weather forecast before departing, as storms can impact flight schedules
  • Bring a copy of your passport and any necessary documents, such as travel insurance

I hope you enjoy your trip to Cancun!