Cancun, Mexico-6-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Beach Time

  • Arrival: Fly into Cancun International Airport (CUN) and take a taxi or shuttle to your hotel
  • Hotel: Stay at the Grand Park Royal Cancun or similar, located on the beach in the Hotel Zone
  • Beach Time: Spend the afternoon relaxing on Playa Delfines, one of Cancun’s most popular beaches
  • Dinner: Head to La Parroquia, a local favorite serving Mexican cuisine
  • Things to Know:
    • Be prepared for crowds and long lines at the airport
    • The Hotel Zone is a safe area, but take normal precautions with your belongings
    • Don’t drink tap water; stick to bottled or filtered water

Day 2: Chichen Itza and Valladolid

  • Breakfast: Enjoy a buffet breakfast at your hotel
  • Chichen Itza: Take a guided tour to this ancient Mayan city, one of the Seven Wonders of the World (approx. 2 hours from Cancun)
  • Valladolid: Visit this charming colonial town for lunch and exploration
  • Lunch: Try El Mesón de Valladolid, serving traditional Yucatecan cuisine
  • Return to Cancun: Head back to your hotel in the evening
  • Dinner: Experience La Habichuela, offering gourmet Mexican cuisine

Day 3: Tulum and Playa del Carmen

  • Breakfast: Grab a quick bite at your hotel or a nearby café
  • Tulum: Visit this stunning coastal Mayan site, known for its dramatic ocean views (approx. 2 hours from Cancun)
  • Playa del Carmen: Spend the afternoon shopping and dining in this lively tourist town
  • Lunch: Enjoy seafood at El Puerto, overlooking the Caribbean Sea
  • Return to Cancun: Head back to your hotel in the evening
  • Dinner: Savor La Casa de las Enchiladas, offering creative Mexican dishes

Day 4: Xel-Ha Park and Snorkeling

  • Breakfast: Fuel up at your hotel or a nearby restaurant
  • Xel-Ha Park: Spend the day snorkeling, swimming, and relaxing in this natural aquarium (approx. 1 hour from Cancun)
  • Lunch: Enjoy an all-inclusive meal at Xel-Ha Park
  • Return to Cancun: Head back to your hotel in the evening
  • Dinner: Discover La Bodeguita del Medio, a lively spot for Mexican cuisine and live music

Day 5: Isla Mujeres and Cancun Underwater Museum

  • Breakfast: Grab a quick bite at your hotel or a nearby café
  • Isla Mujeres: Take a ferry to this peaceful island, perfect for snorkeling, swimming, or simply relaxing (approx. 30 minutes from Cancun)
  • Cancun Underwater Museum: Visit this unique museum featuring more than 500 sculptures submerged in the waters off Isla Mujeres
  • Lunch: Enjoy fresh seafood at Mar-Bella, located on the island
  • Return to Cancun: Head back to your hotel in the evening
  • Dinner: Treat yourself to Puerto Madero, offering gourmet seafood dishes

Day 6: Departure

  • Breakfast: Enjoy a farewell breakfast at your hotel
  • Check-out: Check out of your hotel and head to the airport for your departure flight
  • Tips:
    • Be prepared for crowds and long lines at the airport
    • Don’t forget to try some local currency, Mexican pesos (MXN)
    • Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun

Transportation

  • Taxis: Available at the airport and throughout Cancun
  • Shuttles: Book a shuttle service in advance for transportation between the airport and your hotel
  • Rental Cars: Rent a car if you plan to explore the surrounding area or visit nearby cities
  • Public Transportation: Use buses (R1 or R2) or colectivos (shared vans) for an affordable way to get around Cancun

Other Things of Interest

  • Coba Ruins: Explore this ancient Mayan city, known for its pyramids and scenic surroundings (approx. 3 hours from Cancun)
  • Xcaret Park: Visit this eco-archaeological park featuring cultural performances, water activities, and a butterfly pavilion (approx. 1 hour from Cancun)
  • Cenotes: Swim in one of the many nearby cenotes (natural swimming holes) for a unique experience
  • Markets: Visit the Mercado de San Miguel or Market 28 to shop for souvenirs, try local food, and mingle with locals