Planning a trip to Cancun? You’re in for a treat. With its turquoise beaches, tasty street food, friendly locals, and nearby ancient ruins, Cancún is the perfect mix of fun and culture. Whether it’s your first time or you’ve been before, this guide has all the tips you need to make the most of your trip.
How to Get From the Airport to the City Center
Most people arrive at Cancún International Airport (CUN), which is about 25 minutes from the Hotel Zone or downtown.
Your options include:
- Pre-booked shuttles – Easy and reliable. Great if you want someone waiting for you.
- Taxis – Convenient, but more expensive. Agree on a price before you ride.
- Ride-shares like Uber – Sometimes available near the airport, but not always.
- ADO buses – Budget-friendly and perfect if you’re heading downtown.
Getting Around Cancún
Getting from place to place is simple:
- Buses – R1 and R2 run between the Hotel Zone and downtown. They’re cheap and fun.
- Taxis – Always check the price before getting in.
- Walking – Great for short distances in tourist areas.
- Bikes – Some hotels rent them, and they’re fun for a beachside cruise.
What to Eat in Cancún (and Where to Eat It)
Cancún is a dream for food lovers, from taco stands to fancy seafood.
Must-try dishes:
- Tacos al pastor – Spicy pork with pineapple.
- Cochinita pibil – Yucatan-style slow-roasted pork.
- Ceviche – Fresh seafood marinated in lime.
Where to go:
- Parque Las Palapas – Street food heaven.
- El Fish Fritanga – Local seafood favorite.
- La Habichuela – Mayan-inspired menu with a pretty garden setting.
Things to Do in Cancún
There’s plenty to see beyond the beach.
Here are some highlights:
- Relax on Playa Delfines or Playa Tortugas
- Snorkel or scuba dive at the MUSA underwater museum
- Take a ferry to Isla Mujeres
- Visit Chichén Itzá for a day trip
Family-Friendly Activities
Cancún is great for families, too.
- Xcaret – An eco-park with shows and animals.
- Aquarium Cancún – Fun and educational.
- Captain Hook Pirate Dinner – A pirate show on a boat!
Where to Stay in Cancún
Choose a spot based on your vibe:
- Hotel Zone – Beach, nightlife, and lots of hotels.
- Downtown Cancun – More local and budget-friendly.
- Puerto Juárez – Quiet, with easy ferry access to Isla Mujeres.
When to Visit Cancún
Here’s how the seasons break down:
- High season (Dec–April) – Great weather but higher prices.
- Shoulder season (May–June, Sept–Nov) – Fewer people and better deals.
- Low season (July–August) – Hot, humid, and more rain.
Free or Affordable Things to Do
You don’t need a big budget to enjoy Cancún.
- Hang out at public beaches
- Visit local markets like Mercado 28
- Explore Parque Las Palapas
- Catch the sunset at Playa Delfines
Cancún Nightlife Tips
There’s a party for every mood.
- Coco Bongo – Part club, part Vegas show.
- Mandala Beach Club – Dance barefoot in the sand.
- Downtown bars – Quieter and more local.
Staying Safe in Cancún
It’s generally safe, but keep these in mind:
- Don’t flash valuables.
- Stick to busy areas at night.
- Be cautious of overpriced taxis or unofficial tour sellers.
- Use ATMs inside banks or malls to avoid skimming.
What to Pack for Cancún
Here’s a quick checklist.
Bring:
- Light clothes and swimwear
- Sunscreen (reef-safe)
- Mosquito repellent
- A reusable water bottle
- Small bills in pesos
- Copies of your passport and ID
In Case You Get Sick…
If you end up with food poisoning, sunstroke, or a stomach bug, don’t panic. You can book an English-speaking doctor straight from your phone using Air Doctor.
About the Air Doctor App
With the Air Doctor app in your pocket, you can access medical care and receive expert medical guidance anywhere you travel.
Air Doctor offers a wide range of benefits, including:
- A global network of over 20,000 multi-lingual doctors and specialists
- Choice of clinic, at-home (hotel), and video consultations
- Healthcare access in 90 countries
- 24/7 multi-lingual support
- Transparent pricing and reviews
- Most common medical specialties, including ENT specialists, and pediatricians
FAQs
Pesos are better. Some places take USD, but you’ll get a better deal with local currency—especially at markets and in taxis.
Stick to well-lit, busy areas and you’ll generally be fine. If you’re out late, grab a cab back to your hotel.
Beaches, Mayan ruins, all-inclusive resorts, and nightlife. It’s a favorite for spring breakers, honeymooners, and families alike.
