Things To Do
in Cancún
Cancún is a popular resort city located on the northeastern coast of the Yucatán Peninsula in Mexico. It is known for its beautiful white sandy beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters that attract tourists from around the world. The city offers a vibrant nightlife scene with numerous restaurants, bars and clubs.
Additionally, Cancún is a gateway to exploring the Mayan ruins, such as Chichen Itza and Tulum, as well as the nearby natural wonders of cenotes and eco-parks.
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Hasta luego" - See you later
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $300
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $75
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by lounging on the beautiful white sands of Playa Delfines. Enjoy the warm sun and turquoise waters while sipping a refreshing drink.
Continue your relaxation with a beachside lunch at one of the local restaurants. Afterward, take a dip in the ocean or try some water sports.
As the sun sets, stroll along the beach and enjoy the picturesque views. Dine at a beachfront restaurant and savor local seafood.
Visit the ancient ruins of El Rey to explore the fascinating history of the Mayans. Wander through the archaeological site and capture stunning photos.
Head to Tulum, where you can combine stunning cliffside views with historical exploration. After touring, enjoy lunch at a nearby café with a view of the ocean.
Return to Cancún and unwind at your hotel. Enjoy a quiet dinner, reflecting on the day's adventures.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful beaches with white sand and clear turquoise waters.
- Rich cultural history with nearby Mayan ruins and historical sites.
- Vibrant nightlife and entertainment options.
- Wide range of accommodation options catering to different budgets.
- Pleasant tropical climate year-round.
- Excellent food scene with a mix of local and international cuisine.
- Various recreational activities such as snorkeling, diving, and water sports.
- Potential for overcrowding, especially during peak tourist seasons.
- Higher prices compared to other destinations in Mexico.
- Tourist areas may feel less authentic and more commercialized.
- Concerns about safety in certain areas.
- Heavy traffic and congestion in popular areas.
- Environmental issues such as coral reef degradation.
- Possibility of hurricanes during the Atlantic hurricane season.
Best Activities in Cancún
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful underwater world of the Mesoamerican Reef, the second-largest barrier reef in the world, and marvel at the diverse marine life.
Discover the stunning coral formations, colorful fish, and other marine species in the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean Sea.
Experience the thrill of ziplining through the lush jungles of Cancún and enjoy breathtaking views from above.
Feel the adrenaline rush as you speed across the clear waters of the Caribbean on a jet ski, taking in the scenic coastline.
Soar above the turquoise waters of Cancún's beaches and enjoy panoramic views of the coastline and the hotel zone.
Tours
Uncover the best of Cancún with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Cancún
Visit one of these nice places.
Known for its stunning views and clear blue waters, Playa Delfines offers a perfect spot for capturing beautiful photos of the beach and the ocean.
A scenic overlook offering breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea and the Hotel Zone in Cancún. It's a popular spot for photography enthusiasts.
This shopping mall features a picturesque lagoon, waterfront restaurants, and a marina, making it a great location for capturing the beauty of the area.
Food in Cancún
Cancún Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A popular dish made with raw fish marinated in citrus juices, mixed with onions, tomatoes, cilantro, and served with tortilla chips. Try it at Marbella Market or La Habichuela.
Must-Try!
Marinated pork cooked on a vertical spit, sliced, and served on small tortillas with pineapple, onions, and cilantro. El Rey del Taco and Taqueria Coapense are known for their delicious Tacos al Pastor.
Grilled fish coated in a spicy adobo sauce, providing a delightful blend of smoky and spicy flavors. Visit La Parrilla Downtown or El Fish Fritanga to savor this dish.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Cancún better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market offering traditional street food such as tamales, empanadas, and churros. Don't miss the opportunity to taste local flavors here.
An open-air park where local vendors serve mouthwatering street food including elotes (grilled corn), esquites (corn salad), and marquesitas (crispy filled crepes).
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Cancún, it's important to be mindful of personal space and avoid standing too close to people, especially when in lines or crowded places.
When meeting someone for the first time or in a formal setting, it's customary to use formal greetings such as 'Buenos días' (good morning), 'Buenas tardes' (good afternoon), or 'Buenas noches' (good evening).
Respect for elders is highly valued in Mexican culture, so it's important to show deference and use polite language when interacting with older individuals.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Cancún with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Cancún
Ensure a smooth experience
In Cancún, it is customary to tip service staff, such as waiters, bartenders, and maids, around 10-15% of the total bill. Some restaurants may automatically add a service charge, so it's important to check the bill before tipping. Tipping in US dollars is widely accepted.
In Cancún, most businesses accept credit and debit cards, especially in tourist areas. It's also common to pay in cash, and US dollars are often accepted in addition to Mexican pesos. ATM machines are widely available for cash withdrawals.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Cancún.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit for warm temperatures and low humidity. Popular for winter sun vacations.
Warm temperatures and moderate humidity. Good for beach activities and outdoor excursions.
Hot and humid weather with occasional rain showers. Ideal for water sports and swimming.
Warm temperatures with higher chance of rain. Good for quieter vacations and exploring local culture.
Cancún at Night
Hiking in Cancún
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful natural sinkhole located near Chichen Itza, ideal for a refreshing swim after hiking in the surrounding area.
Famous for its stunning underwater caves, this area offers hiking paths and snorkeling opportunities in a lush jungle setting.
Features trails that take you through coastal cliffs, jungle, and ancient ruins, providing a mix of hiking and cultural exploration.
A UNESCO World Heritage site with diverse ecosystems, offering various trails for hiking while observing wildlife and beautiful landscapes.
An eco-archaeological park with trails through the jungle, cenotes to explore, and various activities, including hiking opportunities.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Cancún through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Cancún by plane.
The primary airport serving Cancún and the surrounding Riviera Maya region, it is one of the busiest airports in Mexico, handling a large number of international flights.
Located on Cozumel Island, this airport offers international flights, primarily catering to tourists visiting the island, accessible via ferry from Cancún.
A smaller airport located closer to Playa del Carmen, it primarily handles domestic flights but has increasing international services.
Located in Mérida, this airport serves as a hub for flights from various regions and offers some international connections.
Located in Chetumal, this airport serves the southern region of Quintana Roo and offers a limited number of international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Cancún, comprising individuals of mixed European and Indigenous ancestry.
Includes various ethnic groups such as the Maya, who have a significant presence in the region.
Primarily individuals of Spanish descent, as well as other European nationalities.
Includes people from other Caribbean nations, contributing to the multicultural aspect of Cancún.
A smaller demographic group, consisting of individuals from various Asian countries, contributing to the local economy and culture.
Includes individuals from North America and other Latin American countries who have moved to Cancún for work or residence.
The Soul of Cancún
Discover the essence of Cancún through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer, or football as it's known in most of the world, is incredibly popular in Cancún, with many local teams and a passionate fan base.
With beautiful beaches, beach volleyball is a popular recreational sport enjoyed by locals and tourists alike.
The warm waters of the Caribbean Sea make swimming a favorite activity for both residents and visitors.
The rich marine life and coral reefs around Cancún attract many snorkelers and divers from around the world.
Cancún is known for its beautiful golf courses, making it a popular spot for golf enthusiasts.
Although not as common as in other Mexican coastal regions, surfing is enjoyed at various spots along the coast.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Cancún.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Cancún offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes, with options like grilled cactus tacos, stuffed bell peppers, and fresh fruit plates. Look for the 'V' or 'VG' symbols on menus to indicate these options.
Several restaurants in Cancún cater to gluten-free diets, with offerings such as ceviche, grilled seafood, and corn-based tortillas. Always communicate your dietary needs to the staff for a seamless dining experience.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Cancún with these cultural adventures.
