Mexico 3 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Cancun and Exploration of Playa del Carmen

Morning

  • Arrive at Cancun International Airport (CUN)
  • Take a taxi or shuttle bus to your hotel in Playa del Carmen (~45 minutes, $30-$50 USD)
  • Check-in to your hotel and freshen up
  • Visit the nearby 5th Avenue (Quinta Avenida), a pedestrian street lined with shops, restaurants, and bars

Afternoon

  • Head to the beach! Playa Mamitas is a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing
  • Take a ferry to Cozumel Island (~45 minutes, $20-$30 USD return) for snorkeling or scuba diving excursions
  • Visit the ancient Mayan ruins of Xcaret Park (optional)

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at one of the many restaurants in Playa del Carmen, try some Mexican cuisine like tacos or ceviche
  • Explore the lively nightlife, with bars and clubs along 5th Avenue

Things to Know

  • Visa requirements: US citizens do not need a visa for tourism or business stays up to 180 days. Check with your government’s travel advisory website for specific requirements.
  • Currency: Mexican Peso (MXN), although USD is widely accepted
  • Language: Spanish, but many locals in tourist areas speak English

Day 2: Tulum and Coba

Morning

  • Take a guided tour to the ancient Mayan ruins of Tulum (~2 hours, $60-$80 USD)
  • Explore the stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters of Tulum National Park
  • Visit the nearby town of Tulum for lunch and shopping

Afternoon

  • Head to Coba Ruins (~1.5 hours, $40-$60 USD), a larger and more remote Mayan site
  • Take a bike tour or walk through the jungle to explore the ruins
  • Swim in one of the many cenotes (natural swimming holes) in the area

Evening

  • Return to Playa del Carmen for dinner and relaxation
  • Consider a sunset sailing trip or a relaxing massage at one of the many spas

Day 3: Cancun and Isla Mujeres

Morning

  • Take a ferry from Cancun to Isla Mujeres (~15 minutes, $10-$20 USD return)
  • Explore the island by golf cart or bike, visiting the lighthouse, beaches, and sea turtle sanctuary
  • Enjoy lunch at one of the many seafood restaurants on the island

Afternoon

  • Return to Cancun and visit the Hotel Zone (Zona Hotelera), a bustling area with shopping centers and restaurants
  • Relax on one of the many beautiful beaches in Cancun, such as Playa Delfines or Playa Nizuc

Evening

  • Enjoy a farewell dinner at one of Cancun’s many excellent restaurants
  • Depart for the airport and your return journey home

Transportation

  • Taxi: widely available, but agree on the price before you start your journey
  • Shuttle bus: book in advance through your hotel or a reputable provider
  • Rental car: consider renting a car for more flexibility, especially if you plan to explore further afield
  • Ferry: frequent services connect Playa del Carmen with Cozumel and Cancun with Isla Mujeres

Other Things of Interest

  • Learn some basic Spanish phrases to interact with locals and enhance your experience
  • Be mindful of your surroundings and take necessary precautions to stay safe
  • Try some local cuisine, such as cochinita pibil (slow-roasted pork) or chiles rellenos (stuffed peppers)
  • Consider purchasing travel insurance to cover unexpected medical or travel-related expenses