Travel Keyring

Cancun travel guide

Mexico

Basics

CountryMexico

Time zoneAmerica/Cancun

CurrencyMXN

Official language(s)Spanish

Be sure to try the local cuisine. It's advisable to stay around tourist areas for safety.

Places to visit

La Isla Shopping Village

A popular shopping and strolling destination in Cancun’s Hotel Zone, with canals and open-air spaces.

HoursDaily 10:00 AM–10:00 PM

AdmissionFree

Travel tipIt’s especially pleasant in the evening for dinner and a walk.

Playa Delfines

A wide public beach in Cancun’s Hotel Zone, known for its open Caribbean views and photo spot.

HoursOpen 24 hours daily

AdmissionFree

Travel tipBring sun protection and water, as shade is limited.

Yamil Lu'um

A small Maya ruin preserved within the Hotel Zone, an easy historical stop near the beach.

HoursOpen 24 hours daily

AdmissionFree

Travel tipIt’s compact, so it works well as a short stop combined with other plans.

Parque de las Palapas

A central city park where you can feel local life and enjoy a relaxed walk. It is a comfortable stop for families as well.

LocationAv. José López Portillo, Cancún, Quintana Roo, México

HoursDaily 6:00–22:00

AdmissionFree

Travel tipWeekends are lively with local crowds; bring a hat and water because the sun can be strong in the daytime.

El Meco Archaeological Site

A Maya site that is relatively easy to reach from downtown Cancun and can be explored in a quieter setting. It is a good choice for travelers who want a short visit to ancient ruins.

LocationAv. López Portillo s/n, Cancún, Quintana Roo, México

HoursDaily 8:00–17:00

AdmissionPaid admission

Travel tipThere is little shade, so go early in the morning and bring plenty of water.

Xcaret Park

Xcaret is a theme park filled with experiences of nature and culture.

HoursEveryday 9:00 - 21:00

Admission$70 USD

Travel tipEnjoy various activities and experience nature.

Tulum Ruins

Tulum is a coastal Mayan archaeological site offering stunning ocean views.

HoursEveryday 9:00 - 17:00

Admission$15 USD

Travel tipTake great photos along the beach and enjoy a relaxing time by the shore.

Maya Museum

The Maya Museum features various exhibits about Mayan culture.

HoursEveryday 10:00 - 19:00

Admission$5 USD

Travel tipLearn about Mayan culture through the diverse exhibits.

Food to try

Taco Truck

A popular Mexican restaurant serving the best tacos.

HoursEveryday 10:00 - 22:00

Admission$15 USD

Travel tipMake sure to try them!

Events

Riviera Maya Jazz Festival

A major jazz event held in Cancun and the nearby Riviera Maya, featuring live performances in a beachside atmosphere.

WhenAround November every year

HoursEvening performances during the event

AdmissionSome free, some ticketed

Travel tipPopular shows can fill up quickly, so check details in advance.

Basic travel phrases (Spanish)

Hola

Hola · Greeting

Gracias

Gracias · Thanks

Mucho gusto

Mucho gusto · Nice to meet you

Que tengas un buen día

Que tengas un buen dia · Wishing a good day

Bienvenido

Bienvenido · Welcome

See all travel guides