Mexico 4 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Cancun and Exploring the Hotel Zone

Morning

  • Arrive at Cancun International Airport (CUN)
  • Take a taxi or shuttle to your hotel in the Hotel Zone (Zona Hotelera)
  • Check-in to your hotel and freshen up
  • Spend some time relaxing on the beach or by the pool

Afternoon

  • Visit the nearby Playa Delfines, a popular beach with crystal-clear waters and powdery white sand
  • Take a leisurely stroll along the Kukulkan Boulevard, lined with shops, restaurants, and bars
  • Stop by the Cancun Sign, a iconic landmark for photos

Evening

  • Head to Coco Bongo, a lively nightclub with acrobatic performances and live music
  • Try some local cuisine at one of the many restaurants in the area, such as La Parroquia or El Fogoncito

Things to Know

  • Mexico is generally a safe country, but take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings
  • The Hotel Zone is a tourist-friendly area with many English speakers, but it’s still a good idea to learn some basic Spanish phrases
  • Be prepared for crowds and long lines at popular attractions

Day 2: Tulum and Playa del Carmen

Morning

  • Take a guided tour to Tulum National Park, an ancient Mayan city perched on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea ( approx. 2 hours from Cancun)
  • Explore the ruins, including the Temple of the Frescoes and the Castle
  • Learn about the history and culture of the Mayan civilization

Afternoon

  • Head to Playa del Carmen, a bustling tourist town with shops, restaurants, and bars (approx. 1 hour from Tulum)
  • Visit Quinta Avenida, the main street lined with boutiques and eateries
  • Take some time to relax on the beach or by the pool at your hotel

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at one of the many international restaurants in Playa del Carmen, such as Ah Cacao or La Bodeguita
  • Explore the town’s vibrant nightlife, with bars and clubs like Abolengo or Coco Maya

Transportation

  • Book a guided tour to Tulum that includes transportation from your hotel
  • Alternatively, take a taxi or bus from Cancun to Playa del Carmen (approx. 1 hour)

Day 3: Chichen Itza and Merida

Morning

  • Take an early morning flight from Cancun to Merida, the capital of Yucatan state (approx. 1.5 hours)
  • Visit Chichen Itza, one of the most famous Mayan ruins in Mexico (approx. 2 hours from Merida)
  • Explore the ancient city, including the Pyramid of Kukulkan and the Ball Court

Afternoon

  • Return to Merida and explore the historic center, including the Plaza Grande and the Cathedral of San Ildefonso
  • Visit the Museum of Mayan Culture, which showcases the history and traditions of the Mayan people
  • Take some time to relax at your hotel or explore the local markets

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at a traditional Yucatecan restaurant, such as Oliva Enoteca or La Chaya Maya
  • Explore the city’s cultural scene, with performances and events like the Merida En Domingo festival (Sunday)

Visa Requirements

  • US citizens do not need a visa to enter Mexico, but must present a valid passport
  • Check with your local authorities for specific requirements based on your nationality

Day 4: Coba Ruins and Swimming in Cenotes

Morning

  • Take a guided tour to Coba Ruins, an ancient Mayan city deep in the jungle (approx. 2 hours from Merida)
  • Explore the ruins, including the Nohoch Mul pyramid and the Sacbesob Road
  • Learn about the history and culture of the Mayan civilization

Afternoon

  • Visit a nearby cenote, a natural swimming hole formed by the collapse of limestone rocks (approx. 1 hour from Coba)
  • Swim in the crystal-clear waters and enjoy the lush surroundings
  • Return to Merida or Cancun for your departure flight

Transportation

  • Book a guided tour to Coba that includes transportation from your hotel
  • Alternatively, take a taxi or bus from Merida to Coba (approx. 2 hours)

Other Things to Know

  • Mexico uses the Mexican peso as its official currency, but USD is widely accepted in tourist areas
  • Be prepared for varying weather conditions, including heat, humidity, and occasional rain showers
  • Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting ancient ruins or attending cultural events

I hope you enjoy your trip to Mexico!