Cancun

Discover Cancun's Wonders

Cancun is a world-famous beach destination on the Caribbean coast, known for its white sandy beaches, vibrant nightlife, and luxury resorts. Visitors can explore ancient Mayan ruins, snorkel in crystal-clear waters, and enjoy exciting nightlife. With its turquoise beaches and endless entertainment options, Cancun is a top destination for beach lovers and partygoers alike.

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Description

Today, Cancún is known worldwide for its turquoise-blue water beaches, luxurious resorts, and bustling nightlife. But before this Mexican city became a major tourist destination, the region, which was once home to the Mayan civilization, was mostly wetlands, mangroves, jungles, and untouched beaches. After it was left abandoned for centuries, the Mexican government finally realized in 1968 its true potential as a holiday hotspot. Currently, Cancún is divided into two distinctive districts, the famous Hotel Zone (Zona Hotelera), a beachfront strip of hotels, resorts, eateries, shops, bars, and nightclubs, and the actual city of Cancún, known as El Centro. The Hotel Zone, which is surrounded by 25 kilometers of pure white sandy beach, is linked to the city via the four-lane Boulevard Kukulcán.

Useful information

Population:

1,023,000 (2023)

Currency:

Mexican Peso 1 $ = 100 Centavos. USD are widely accepted in tourist areas. Prices may be in USD or MX pesos.

Emergency Info:

911

Opening Hours:

Downtown 9am–9pm. Hotel Zone 10am–10pm. Shops & malls are usually open 7 days a week. Small shops may close for siesta between 2pm and 4pm.

Do & See

Aquaworld

What better way to enjoy water sports than in the warm, crystal-clear turquoise waters of Cancún? Whether you choose to go swimming, sailing, kayaking, windsurfing, kite sailing, jet-skiing, parasailing, diving, or snorkeling along the second-largest reef in the world, you'll not be disappointed. Maybe you prefer to stay on the surface and experience the thrill of deep-sea fishing or just relax on a sunset cruise — there is literally no water sport imaginable that you won’t find here. Aspiring and advanced divers should not miss a dive in the famous diving paradise of Cozumel. Another must is the popular jungle tour through the nature reserve of the Nichupte Lagoon where you can be a captain of your own boat.

Cancún Theatre & Mexican Folk Art Museum

Discover one of Cancún’s little treasures, the Mexican Folk Art Museum brimming with excellent examples of Mexican folk art and crafts. You can also experience the traditions and culture of Mexico at Xcaret Park, which offers an incredible show with advanced technology, amazing costumes, and an impeccable set design.

Cenotes

Cenotes (sinkholes) are deep wells with crystal clear water that can be accessed when the roof of a cave collapses. Fed by underground rivers, the cenotes were the main source of freshwater for the Mayans and therefore are considered sacred. They are unique to the Yucatán peninsula, and still to this day, the underground cave system connecting all the cenotes remains largely unexplored. Witnessing the breathtaking beauty of the large clusters of stalactites and stalagmites being mirrored in the crystal clear cool waters is a unique experience. Every cenote has its own particular beauty, and putting on a swimsuit and snorkeling in the pool is an absolutely unforgettable experience. Some tour operators also offer cave diving excursions for very experienced divers.

Dolphinaris Cancún

Is swimming with dolphins a dream for you? Then make it a reality at the Dolphinaris Cancún. Here, you get to interact with these beautiful and smart creatures, become a trainer for a day, and follow the daily routines of a dolphin's life. An unforgettable experience for both the kids and the grownups.

Downtown

Downtown (El Centro) is the actual backbone of Cancún. What it lacks in history, it makes up for being a true melting pot — an exciting mix of the old traditional Mexico and an ultra-modern urban sprawl. Avenida Tulum, the main street, passing through the heart of the city, is easy to reach by public transport. The street is lined with shops, cafés, bars, and restaurants. Be sure to stop by Parque de las Palapas, on the market square, where locals come to chat and watch the entertainment provided by various local groups. The lively atmosphere and the sound of Mexican music are infectious, and any worries will quickly be postponed to "mañana." Browse around the artisan stalls and try some of the local sweet delicacies or visit the "Hippie Market" around the corner. In the evenings, the place to be is Avenida Yaxchillan with its lively restaurants and bars, popular with locals and tourists alike.

Eco Parks & Tours

If you're looking for a great family day out, don’t forget to visit the eco-parks of Xel Há and Xcarét. With shows and adventures set in stunning lush tropical vegetation with exotic wildlife, these parks offer an entertaining, educational, and fun day out for the young and old alike. For the slightly more energetic and adventurous, try one of the exciting eco-tours which will make you feel like a true explorer.

Hotel Zone

Most hotels in the Hotel Zone or Zona Hotelera are located directly on Cancún's beautiful beach. The Hotel Zone itself is divided into kilometer-long sections, which make it easy to navigate. The heart of the area is undoubtedly Cancún's famous buzzing party zone (km 8), where the bars and nightclubs draw both young and old crowds until the early morning hours. The party also attracts performing and visiting celebrities so you'll never know who you might be rubbing shoulders with.

Interactive Aquarium

Unlike most aquariums, at the Interactive Aquarium of Cancún, you'll get a chance to get up close to sea creatures and even interact with some of them. Here, you can touch starfish and sea urchins, swim with dolphins, or watch them put on a show. There are over 140 species on display here and the Aquarium is open 365 days a year.

Dining

Bovinos

Bovinos is a high-end all-you-can-eat Brazilian-inspired steak house serving Brazillian barbeque on skewers that is carved tableside, as well as an extensive buffet of side dishes and salads — a true meat lovers paradise.

Casa Tequila

Picturesque bar and restaurant serving authentic Mexican dishes from around the country, especially the Maya area, as well as an expansive assortment of tequilas and Mexican craft beers. Plus, a mariachi band brings the entire experience together.

Elefanthai

In this traditional Thai-style establishment, every table setting consists of an individual stylish palapa with its own unique table and sofa, giving the restaurant a serene and elegant ambiance. Enhancing the experience is dolphins swimming gracefully on one side and a fantastic view over the lagoon on the other. Classic Thai specialties and Indian cuisine in an ultra-chic atmosphere.

Hard Rock Cafe Cancún

Nestled amongst the shops at Forum By The Sea is Hard Rock Café, a perfect place to stop for lunch, dinner, a cold beer, or listen to live music. There is a bar and tables outside on a patio overlooking the beach and, of course, a chance to buy memorabilia from their collection.

La Dolce Vita

Consistently rated as one of the top restaurants in Cancún, La Dolce Vita serves fresh seafood, homemade pasta, pizza, and Italian desserts in a warm and welcoming setting with a garden terrace. The food here is outstanding, the wine list exquisite, and the service impeccable.

La Palapa Belga

A hidden gem in Cancún's Hotel Zone, La Palapa Belga offers traditional French and Belgian specialties in a gorgeous and romantic location overlooking the lagoon. Plus, friendly and welcoming staff and reasonable prices. The mussels served in a cooking pot are highly recommended.

La Parrilla

Vibrant Mexican restaurant in downtown Cancún serving a large selection of Mexican seafood and meat dishes accompanied by a Mariachi band and skillful waiters — some of them can even carry stacked cocktails on their heads without dropping them. The portions at La Parrilla are generous, and the food is quite tasty, but this place does tend to get busy and very loud, so if you're in the mood for a quiet evening dinner, consider going somewhere else.

La Pizzarra

Come for the view, stay for the food! Right on the bayside at La Isla Cancun Shopping Village, La Pizzarra offers Neapolitan-style pizza, wine, and pasta in a beautiful and romantic location that gets even more spectacular around sunset.

Cafés

Cafe Antoinette

Cafe Antoinette will charm you with its cozy French atmosphere, freshly baked baguettes, homemade quiches, and exquisite macarons. All their products are prepared according to traditional practices and guarantee authentic flavors and a real feel of timeless Paris.

Café con Gracia

Providing a lovely and welcoming outdoor seating area and cozy interiors, Café con Gracia is a perfect gathering point for a cup of coffee, tea, a frappe, or some homemade baked goods. On the menu: bagels, paninis, waffles, desserts, and "cuernitos" — the Mexican version of a croissant.

Café Nader

Café Nader feels like the Mexican version of an American diner. So expect hearty meals such as enfrijoladas, tacos de barbacoa, and parrillada. It's a bit fancier than a regular café and therefore a bit more expensive. They serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner and is a popular brunch place on Sundays. Café Nader is also famous for its sweet bread, which is baked every 30 minutes in front of the customers, and as soon as they're ready, they'll let you know by ringing a bell.

Prana Café

Housed inside the upscale Marina Puerto Cancún shopping complex, Prana Café is the ideal breakfast and brunch destination for health-conscious travelers. Indulge in a holistic culinary experience, nourishing both your body and spirit with a selection of healthy keto, vegan, and vegetarian options. From flavorful toasts to plant-based burgers and hot dogs, as well as a wide array of sandwiches, desserts, and smoothie bowls.

Rooster

A cute little coffee shop in downtown Cancún dishing up morning staples, like waffles, omelets, and avocado toast, plus paninis, salads, and bagels at lunchtime. The eggs Benedict with smoked salmon comes highly recommended.

Bars & Nightlife

Casa Tequila

Coco Bongo

Coco Bongo is not your typical nightclub. Instead of a dance floor and DJ acts, the venue, which is “a combination of Cirque du Soleil, a concert, a theater, and a disco,” hosts musical performances by local artists impersonating famous singers and actors. Plus, dancers, trapeze artists, and gymnasts, all work to create an atmosphere of fun and enjoyment that audiences will remember for the rest of their lives.

Congo Bar

Lively, multi-level venue playing all sorts of music and offering live DJs, lots of dancing, and drinks at reasonable prices. Join the conga line and get ready to socialize with tourists and locals alike.

Cuncrawl

Let some experienced guides take you to the hippest Cancún bars and nightclubs and enjoy yourself with an open bar tab — you'll have the chance to meet new people and discover new places from the viewpoint of a local.

D'Cave

D'Cave's experienced DJs spin a mash-up of 80s, 90s, hip-hop, and dance tunes, paying homage to all styles and tastes. Boasting trendy interiors and showcasing laser effects, the nightclub is a major draw for tourists in Cancún.

Mandala

Upscale spot for nightlife in Cancún, Mandala features great music (mostly electronic), bottle service, and an open-air, vibrant atmosphere, which is enhanced by a young and cosmopolitan crowd that fills the dance floor till the early hours.

Monkey Business

Informal bar and restaurant in the middle of the Hotel Zone offering a great selection of drinks, burgers, and quesadillas, as well as live music and shisha. Great spot to drop by before hitting Cancún's nightclubs.

Señor Frog's

Señor Frog's is both a restaurant and an upbeat bar, combining a family-friendly atmosphere with events and parties that fear no rivals. Gratify your taste buds with delicious Mexican specialties or pop in at night, when the dance floor fills up with people, Señor Frog's is an unbeatable component of Cancún's nightlife.

Shopping

Kukulcan Plaza

Kukulcan Plaza is a beautiful and modern mall right on the main street of the Hotel Zone. It is renowned for its assortment of luxury shops and international names. Here you'll also find some souvenir shops, local brands, and a few eateries. The mall boasts stunning architecture, including an elaborate Mayan stained-glass dome. It's here where the Luxury Avenue Boutique Mall is located, offering the most famous — and expensive — brands.

La Isla Paradise Experience

La Isla is a lively, open-air shopping complex featuring shady alleys and pretty canals, showcasing a wide array of shops, restaurants, and attractions, including a Ferris wheel. Take a stroll down the quaint streets, browse at the shops renowned worldwide, or grab a bite to eat — La Isla is a pleasant shopper's paradise.

Las Plazas Outlet

Located 12 km from the Hotel Zone, Las Plazas Outlet is a partly outdoor and indoor shopping mall housing a cinema, lots of eateries, as well as several shops of internationally famous brands, such as Puma, Nike, Adidas, Lacoste, Hugo Boss, Guess, Calvin Klein, among others.

Luxury Avenue Mall

With its touch of luxury shopping, Cancún turned into a most coveted holiday resort. The Luxury Avenue Mall boasts the most prestigious brands in beauty, fashion, jewelry, and watches in a luxurious environment and exclusive service.

Mercado 28

Mercado 28 is the perfect destination to browse the colorful stalls and get a glimpse of Mexican souvenirs and handicrafts. Vendors tend to be pushy, but with good haggling skills, you can find a comprehensive variety of products at reasonable prices, including pottery, clothes, and knickknacks.

Plaza Las Americas

Plaza Las Americas is a huge shopping center in downtown Cancún, boasting a diverse assortment of shops, eateries, and cafés. Connected to another big shopping mall, the whole complex features both large international brands as well as small shops owned by locals. Plus, a casino, a pharmacy, a cinema, and a few hotels.

Tourist Information

Best Time to Visit

If you want to avoid holiday crowds and high prices, the best time to visit Cancún is from May to November, particularly in September and October. However, these two are also the rainiest months. If you prefer escaping the cold winter to relax in the sun, book your trip in December or January, the high season in Cancún.

Passport & Visa

Visa exemption applies to citizens of all EU countries, most countries in the Americas, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, and more. Both tourists and business visitors from these countries may stay in Mexico for up to 180 days. For Russian, Turkish, and Ukrainian passport holders, electronic authorization (SAE) is required, which then grants travelers from these countries the right of a single entry followed by a stay of up to 30 days. Please consult an official source/consulate in your home country for the latest information on visa requirements.

Cancún Airport International (CUN)

Cancún Airport International (CUN) offers travelers two distinct transfer options to reach the Hotel Zone. Opting for an airport taxi shuttle is the quickest and most convenient choice, ensuring a swift 30-minute journey directly to your hotel. For budget-conscious travelers, the ADO bus to Cancún's city center provides a more economical option. However, from the city center, you'll still need to take a taxi to the Hotel Zone or switch to the local R-1 or R-2 public bus, which runs to the Hotel Zone every few minutes. The total journey time will be around 1 hour and 20 minutes depending on traffic.

Public Transport

Cancún's central bus station is located at the corner of Avenidas Tulum and Uxmal, offering excellent and regular connections to most touristic destinations. A regular shuttle transfer to Playa del Carmen leaves every 15-30 minutes. The frequent local bus service between the Hotel Zone and downtown Cancún (R-1 or R-2 buses) is quite efficient, although old, and runs around the clock. Buses stop on hand signal and will often leave before everyone is seated; bus stops are marked with a blue and black sign with a picture of a bus. You can buy tickets on board but don't forget to check your change before taking your seat.

Taxi

Taxis are a common mode of transport in Cancún. Despite warnings to agree on a price before getting in, one should know that all taxi drivers belong to a syndicate, and there is an official fixed price list split into various zones that all taxi drivers must carry (also available in all hotels). Taxis in the Hotel Zone are more expensive than downtown, and a standing taxi always costs slightly more than one flagged down from the curb. A couple of alternatives are the Taxi Cancun taxi service that serves all over Cancún and runs around the clock, and reserving a ride with Uber.

Electricity

110 Volt. Hotels usually offer voltage converters for 220 Volt devices.

Pharmacy

There are two types of pharmacies in Mexico, the regular Farmacia and the Farmacia Similares. The former sells well-known brand medications whilst the latter sells cheaper non-branded medicines. You can find a Farmacia on almost every corner within Cancún's downtown, with several located in the Hotel Zone. Many Farmacias are open 24 hours and offer a delivery service for a small surcharge.

Post

The postal service in Mexico is very slow and often not very reliable. Sending anything of importance or value is usually safer by courier service. Cancún’s main post office is located in the city center where stamps or postcards can be found; mailboxes are red and easy to recognize.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time of year to visit Cancun?

The best time to visit Cancun is from December to April when the weather is warm and dry. This period is ideal for enjoying the beaches and outdoor activities.

What are the must-see attractions in Cancun?

Must-see attractions in Cancun include the Mayan ruins of El Rey, the underwater museum MUSA, and the stunning beaches like Playa Delfines and Playa Tortugas.

How can I get around Cancun once I arrive?

In Cancun, you can get around using public buses, which are frequent and affordable, or taxis for more convenience. Renting a car is also an option if you plan to explore further.

What local dishes should I try while in Cancun?

While in Cancun, try local dishes like cochinita pibil, a slow-roasted pork dish, and ceviche made with fresh seafood. Don't miss out on tasting authentic tacos al pastor.

How many days should I plan to stay in Cancun?

A stay of about 4 to 5 days is ideal to explore Cancun's beaches, visit nearby attractions, and enjoy some relaxation time. This allows for a balanced experience.

Are there any worthwhile day trips from Cancun?

Yes, day trips to Isla Mujeres for its beautiful beaches and to the ancient Mayan city of Chichen Itza are highly recommended. Both offer unique experiences outside Cancun.

What is the local currency in Cancun and can I use US dollars?

The local currency in Cancun is the Mexican Peso, but US dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas. It's advisable to carry some pesos for smaller purchases.

Trips

Riviera Maya Discovery

Mayan Riviera Escapade

Cancun Discovery

Tulum Escapade

Family Mayan Adventure

Riviera Maya Discovery

Mayan Riviera Escapade

Cancun Discovery

Tulum Escapade

Family Mayan Adventure

Riviera Maya Discovery

Mayan Riviera Escapade

Cancun Discovery

Tulum Escapade

Family Mayan Adventure

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