Cancun Travel Guide
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Top Attractions
Cheap Flying Tips
Where to Stay
Things to Do
Your Guide to Cancun
If you’re a travel buff, there’s no doubt that Cancun is on your list of top places to visit. This Mexican city is known for its white sandy beaches, clear blue water, and activities unlike any other. It’s no surprise that a whopping 6 million people visit every year!
This article serves as the ultimate guide to visiting Cancun, complete with top attractions, popular activities, and even tips to score cheap flights! We’ll also cover some popular hotels and unique Airbnb experiences that can’t be found anywhere else.
There is so much to learn about the traveler’s dream that is Cancun. Read on to discover what this gorgeous city has in store for you!
Top Attractions in Cancun
Lounging in the sun is always a good call when visiting a location like Cancun, but be sure to check out some of the unique attractions in the area! This next section will cover three of the top attractions in Cancun, including:
- An underwater museum
- Ancient ruins
- An outdoor nature park
Cancun Underwater Museum
This museum tour is incredibly immersive, or should we say sub-mersive! Officially titled Museo Subacuático de Arte, or MUSA for short, this underwater experience is a collection of nearly 500 submerged statues. Guests can really get up close and personal to the art- no diving skills necessary.
Tourists can choose from three museum tour options:
- Snorkeling
- Diving (with or without certification)
- A ride on a glass-bottomed boat
Prices vary depending on which tour you’ve selected, but guests can expect to pay between $47 and $145. Tours can be booked online at MUSA’s website.
The Ruins of Chichén Itzá
You don’t have to be a history nerd to appreciate Chichén Itzá, one of Mexico’s most impressive archeological sites. Ancient Mayans once inhabited the area, but today visitors from all over the world come to marvel at its beauty.
You can visit Chichén Itzá on your own, or you can book a tour to be led around by a guide. If you are visiting on your own, make sure to bring plenty of pesos for the admission fee and dress comfortably. You’ll be doing quite a bit of walking!
Parking is incredibly affordable, but do your best to get there early and avoid the crowds.
Xcaret Nature Park
Traveling with a group of people? Xcaret Park combines virtually every possible activity into one enclosed area. Your adventurous friends can swim through underground rivers while you check out beautiful churches and archeological sites. There’s even a children’s area for the young ones.
Xcaret also owns several other parks, including a zip-lining experience entitled Xplor. There’s even a hotel on-site so that you can spend your whole Cancun vacation relaxing in one spot. Guests can book one of Xcaret’s packages or create their own and customize their experience.
Regular admission costs $98 per person for one day with discounted prices the longer you stay. Admission can be purchased at Xcaret’s website.
The Experience Flying into Cancun Airport
There is only one airport in Cancun, the Cancun International Airport. It is Mexico’s second busiest airport, so it’s important to plan ahead before arriving so that you don’t get stuck in lines. Because Cancun’s airport is an International Port of Entry, you’ll need to be prepared to undergo any screening when flying internationally.
Any visitors arriving internationally will first need to provide entry documents to the immigration reception area. These documents include a passport or travel visa. Once checked in, you’ll need to proceed to the luggage claim before heading to customs, where your baggage will be scanned and you’ll be required to fill out a declaration form.
After leaving customs, you’re free to exit the airport and continue on to your lodging. Bus transportation is available to downtown Cancun for only $5.
We recommend being prepared as soon as you land with your passport and declaration forms, but be prepared to wait in lines due to the number of people who visit the airport every day. Once you’re familiar with the arrivals process, your Cancun arrival should go off without a hitch.
Top 3 Tips to Fly Cheap to Cancun
Because Cancun is such a popular vacation destination, flight prices can be pretty expensive. However, there are a few handy tips to remember when beginning your booking process that may help save you money in the long run.
1. Avoid busy travel times
People visit Cancun all year round, but booking your trip between major holidays is a good way to save some money. Summer vacation, spring break, and Christmas are big travel times, so plan your trip somewhere between for cheaper fares.
2. Set a Google alert
Flight prices fluctuate so often that it can be hard to keep up. Setting up a Google Flights alert will ensure you are notified every time there’s a price change for your desired flight, meaning you always get the lowest price possible.
3. Book in advance, but not too early
According to Hopper Media, you can save the most money by booking a flight to Cancun fifteen days in advance. It may seem like it’s cutting it close, but it’s worth it for the savings!
Popular Areas of the City to Stay
There are two main areas tourists typically stay when visiting Cancun: Zona Hotelera and the downtown El Centro. When traveling internationally, it’s best to stick to areas where tourists typically are to avoid running into any problems. These two areas offer plenty of lodging options to choose from.
Zona Hotelera
You’ll find the most tourists at Zona Hotelera, which is bustling with activity and full of different hotels and resorts for every budget. It’s typically referred to as the most convenient place to stay in Cancun due to its proximity to the ocean and special amenities for tourists. You’ll never run out of things to do here!
El Centro
If you want your vacation to be a mix of beaches and urban life, El Centro is a great place to set up your home base. It’s full of great spots to hang out such as parks and unbeatable restaurants known for serving delicious authentic Mexican cuisine.
The next two sections will cover some popular hotels and Airbnbs in these two areas to give you some inspiration for booking your next trip.
Popular Hotels in Cancun
You know where you’re going, but where are you going to stay? These are some of the most popular hotels in each area, either for the bargain master trying to save cash or for those looking for the finer things.
Zona Hotelera
There are tons of different four and five-star hotels in Zona Hotelera to choose from. Some of these include:
- The Ritz-Carlton: AAA five-diamond hotel with a private beach, swimming pools, and spa. See options here on Tripadvisor.com
- Hard Rock Hotel: All-inclusive resort giving guests access to private balconies and on-site dining. See options here on Tripadvisor.com
- Beach Palace: First-class resort including private balconies and double hot tubs. See options here on Tripadvisor.com
- NIZUC Resort & Spa: Secluded resort located 10 minutes from the airport. Spacious rooms with guest access to a private dock. See options here on Tripadvisor.com
- Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach: This large five-star luxury hotel includes six on-site restaurants and ocean views. See options here on Tripadvisor.com
El Centro
Those staying in El Centro can ditch the fancy beach resorts and save a little bit at one of the many popular options, including:
- Ocean Spa Hotel: This stay is located only a 25-minute drive from the airport and includes two outdoor pools, a spa, and free WiFi. See options here on Tripadvisor.com
- Flamingo Cancun Resort: This $57/night hotel is located on the beach. See options here on Tripadvisor.com
- Hotel Krystal Cancun: Affordable beachfront hotel complete with swimming pools and restaurants. See options here on Tripadvisor.com
- Hotel Dos Playas Faranda: Popular three-star resort offering guests amenities like free WiFi and mini-fridge. See options here on Tripadvisor.com
As you can see, you’ll find many fancy resorts in Zona Hotelera as opposed to cheaper, straight-forward options in El Centro. Both are great places to visit, so it’s really all up to your personal preferences!
Popular VRBOs in Cancun
Beachfront Oasis Villa
Immerse yourself in the beauty of Cancun’s coastline in this stunning beachfront villa. With a private infinity pool, panoramic ocean views, and luxurious amenities, this idyllic rental promises an unforgettable stay.
Tropical Lagoon Retreat
Discover serenity in this private lagoon retreat, featuring lush gardens, a private pool, and direct lagoon access. Located minutes from Cancun’s top attractions, this peaceful rental offers the perfect balance of relaxation and adventure.
Luxurious Penthouse Condo
Experience upscale living in this modern penthouse condo, boasting floor-to-ceiling windows, a rooftop terrace, and stunning views of Cancun’s skyline. With easy access to the beach and vibrant hotel zone, this rental promises a memorable stay.
Tranquil Golf Getaway
Tee off in style at this luxurious golf course villa, situated in a prestigious gated community. Featuring a private pool, contemporary design, and easy access to world-class golf courses, this rental is perfect for avid golfers.
Top Things To Do in Cancun
You may want to plan ahead when visiting Cancun! With so many different activities to choose from, it can be difficult to fit everything into a short vacation. Here are five of the top things to do in Cancun so that you can be prepared before landing on the shores.
- Relax on the beach. Cancun is known for their beaches for a reason! Spend some time lounging in the sand and soaking in Mexico’s rays.
- Zipline through the trees. Xcaret’s sister park Xplor is begging to be well, explored! Check out what Cancun has to offer from a bird’s eye view.
- Along with Cancun’s underwater museum, there is plenty of aquatic life to be marveled at. Ample opportunities allow interested visitors the chance to check out what’s under the sea!
- Enjoy the local cuisine. You are in Mexico, after all! Visit some of the local restaurants for authentic Mexican cuisine that you literally can’t get anywhere else.
- Visit historical ruins. There are tons of different archeological sites to visit when in Cancun. Journey back in time to an era of native rule!
Coolest Airbnb Experiences in Cancun
Airbnbs don’t have to be a cheaper alternative to hotel rooms. In fact, some of the coolest and most unique overnight experiences are Airbnbs! Below are some of the most beautiful and luxurious Airbnbs that Cancun has to offer.
- Beachfront in Brisa: This insanely gorgeous studio has a balcony facing the ocean for unbeatable views. Located in the residential area of Cancun, you’re sure to be separated from the noise while still enjoying the scenery.
- Private Villa: Luxury is an understatement with this $2,700/night villa! There are six bedrooms complete with their own balcony, television, and in-suite bathroom. This is the perfect option for those traveling with a lot of people!
- Beach Penthouse: Penthouses aren’t only for city dwellers! Enjoy a beautiful, luxurious beachfront stay just a few miles away from Zona Hotelera.
- Rooftop Pool: Take in the nighttime sights of El Centro from a shared rooftop pool! Guests staying in this private suite are in the heart of all of Cancun’s action.
- Infinity Pool: Love to swim? This incredible apartment in Zona Hotelera comes complete with an infinity pool along with beautiful views of the lagoon.
Final Thoughts
Cancun is one of the top vacation destinations across the world for a reason. Every year, millions of people flock to the white sandy shores to relax and enjoy everything the city has to offer. We hope that this article has served as a helpful guide for planning your next trip to Cancun!
Read More Cancun Travel Tips
- Cancun’s Best Hotels
- The Best Boutique Hotels in Cancun
- Best Bed & Breakfasts in Cancun
- The Top VRBO’s in Cancun
- Cancun’s Best Resorts
- The Best Fine Dining Restaurants in Cancun
- Best Dive Shops in Cancun
- The Top Things to do in Cancun
