Known worldwide for its stunning beaches of turquoise water and white sand, there is much more to see in Cancun Mexico. Thanks to its incredible expanse of natural beauty, activities and gastronomy, this city is considered a real tourist gem.
Whether you’re travelling alone, with friends or family, in Cancun you’ll be able to enjoy both what the city has to offer and all the incredible natural sites that surround it. You’ll also be able to get to know more about the Mayan culture, characteristic of Mexico. Are you going to miss it?
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Things to do in Cancun Mexico
Puerto Juarez
Puerto Juarez is also known for being the fishermen’s neighbourhood of Cancun, as well as being the only coastal area outside the hotel zone of the city.
On this beautiful promenade you’ll find some of the best seafood stalls, not to mention a myriad of restaurants to choose from to stop for a local dish overlooking the sea. Also, this point is also known for being the port from which Isla Mujeres is accessed.
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Chitzen Itza
Mexico is known, in large part, for its impressive Mayan ruins; however, of all the ruins to choose from, we recommend starting with Chitzen Itza.
Besides being one of the most impressive and visited corners of Cancun, this place is full of mysteries about the Mayan civilization. There you will find the famous Temple of Kukulcan. It formed by a huge throne and a stone jaguar, a must to bring your camera!
Monument to the History of Mexico
At the roundabout in the centre of Cancun, at the junction of two important avenues in the city. They are the imposing Monument to the History of Mexico.
Also known by the locals as La Licuadora, this monument created by José Delarra has a characteristic contemporary style; on its walls, you can find some symbolizing different events and epochs of the history of Mexico. It is a visual gem.
Dolphin Beach
Considering that we always try to avoid tourist crowds, our recommendation is that among all the incredible beaches you can choose from in Cancun, you should definitely go to Playa Delfines.
This beach, unsurprisingly, offers stunning turquoise waters characteristic of the area, as well as an extensive sandy area. You can spend a relaxing morning or enjoy surfing thanks to the great waves that this place has to offer.
Municipal Palace
Located on Avenida Tulum is the Palacio Municipal, which houses the seat of the municipal government of the city of Cancun.
This beautiful building is located in a large square, in the centre of which stands the statue of the important figure of Benito Juarez. This place usually hosts different events throughout the year. We recommend you to walk around this area at night, as the Palace is beautifully illuminated, so don’t forget your camera!
Underwater Art Museum
The Underwater Museum of Art, located under the sea surrounding Cancun, Punta Nizuc and Isla Mujeres, hides a large exhibition of sculptures.
It is not only characteristic for housing all these figures underwater, but you can also enjoy a great variety of sculptures of different natures intermingled with
Parish Church of Cristo Resucitado (Risen Christ)
One of the most interesting religious sites to see in Cancun Mexico is the Parroquia de Cristo Resucitado, being the only church located within the hotel zone of the city.
Its most characteristic feature is a large sculpture of the Risen Christ. You can also enjoy a large garden where you will find the Virgin of Guadalupe in a beautiful fountain.
Mayan Museum of Cancun
There is undoubtedly a lot to see in Cancun Mexico, but it is always important to know its history in order to enjoy the city more thoroughly.
This museum houses exhibitions on some of the most important archaeological cultures for the Mayan culture. Divided into three large rooms, you can learn about different civilizations and eras. A place that will definitely leave you wanting to know more about the history of this city.
El Rey Archaeological Zone
Considered one of the most important archaeological zones in Cancun, El Rey is a large area of ruins where you can learn more about the Mayan culture.
Located on Kukulcan Avenue, in this archaeological zone you can take a tour while you get to know some of the most important Mayan structures and ruins. As well as better understand their history and civilisation. A real historical jewel to see on your trip to Cancun Mexico.
Travel Tip: To organize your trip we recommend using Passporter totally free. You can be inspired by the experiences of other travelers, choose the places that interest you most, create the travel route with a geolocated map, upload all important documents such as reservations and invite your friends so that everyone can participate in the organization of the trip.
What to do around Cancun Mexico?
Cancun’s surroundings are full of emblematic natural sites that you can’t miss on your trip. Take note of these recommendations and make the most of these wonders.
Tulum
First of all, Tulum is an impressive walled city that has a great historical value and offers a wide archaeological natural exhibition.
Some of its most emblematic sites include the ancestral ceremonial centre, from where you can enjoy incredible views of the Caribbean Sea. Don’t hesitate to take a stroll through its famous Mayan Ruins. Here you will find the famous Castillo del Mar, one of the main attractions of the beautiful Riviera Maya.
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Cozumel
Cozumel is one of the most famous islands of the Mexican coast, and a place you can’t miss on your trip to Cancun.
Characterised by its beautiful reefs and, of course, its turquoise waters, you will not only find beach and sea on this island. Besides having the opportunity to practice some aquatic activities such as scuba diving, if you prefer to stay on land you can choose to get lost in its imposing jungle. Cozumel is certainly not a place to get bored.
Isla Mujeres
Located just a few minutes from Cancun, Isla Mujeres is a land that blends the urban and the natural with a special harmony.
Being full of beaches and cliffs, this island is one of the favourite places to visit for travellers. Also, it has a wide range of historical sites and Mayan ruins, making it a complete tourist destination. You can reach it by a very affordable boat trip and you can’t miss it!
Xcaret Natural Sanctuary
The Xcaret Natural Sanctuary is located just an hour away from Cancun and is one of the activities you can’t miss on your trip.
This sanctuary, characteristic for mixing Mayan culture with local traditions, makes this place a natural paradise. It offers a wide variety of archaeological exhibits and activities; among them, you can try swimming with dolphins, scuba diving or the Mayan ball game. When you want to stop for a break, you can buy some local food to take away.
Secret River
One of the places around Cancun that you can’t miss is the Rio Secreto. You’ll be blown away by its incredible natural beauty, and it’s no wonder why.
Forming an underground river with crystal clear waters and stalactite ceilings, you can stroll, swim or even snorkel in its waters along a 600-metre-long course. Meanwhile, you will be accompanied by a guide who will explain the history of this place.
What to do in Cancun Mexico with kids?
Scenic Tower
The Torre Escenica is an imposing infrastructure that soars through the Cancun skyline and is visible from most parts of the city.
With a height of up to 85 metres, this tower allows a panoramic view of the city. It makes an ideal place to take photos or videos of Cancun. The sensation of height will leave both adults and children speechless, and you will be able to enjoy incredible views of the Caribbean Sea.
Cancun Interactive Aquarium
The Cancun Interactive Aquarium is one of the most recommended activities if you are travelling with children. Located in the Plaza La Isla, it will be the ideal place to spend the afternoon with the family.
Inside you will be able to enjoy an extensive exhibition of all kinds of marine species from the Caribbean. Among them, you will find seahorses, jellyfish, rays… and even sharks! Moreover, on this visit you will not only be able to contemplate them. But you will also have the opportunity to feed and even interact with these impressive animals. The kids won’t be the only ones to be fascinated.
Kabah Urban Park
Considered as the lungs of the city, Kabah Urban Park is located in the heart of downtown Cancun and is one of the most appreciated places in Cancun, especially by the locals.
With a huge extension of green area, this park is the perfect place to go for a walk or a bike ride with the little ones. They will enjoy a quiet time surrounded by trees, as well as having the opportunity to participate in some of the workshops that are organized on weekends in the park, they will be totally delighted!
Crococun Zoo
It is well known that children love zoos, but these places are not just for the little ones.
At the Crococun Zoo you can spend a great day with your family while meeting amazing creatures, such as crocodiles. In addition, the little ones will have the opportunity to feed some of the exotic animals there, and they can even pet them! You will have a day full of adventures.
Itineraries for your trip to Cancun Mexico
What to see in Cancun Mexico in 1 day?
- Municipal Palace
- Puerto Juarez
- Visit El Rey Archaeological Zone
- Stroll along Delfines Beach
- See the Monument to the History of Mexico
- Climb the Scenic Tower
What to see in Cancun Mexico in 3 days?
- First, visit the Chitzen Itza.
- Then, visit the Underwater Art Museum.
- Also, Cancun Mayan Museum.
- Visit Tulum.
- Moreover, escape to Isla Mujeres.
- Dive the Rio Secreto.
- In addition, stroll through Kabah Urban Park.
- Finally, visit Xcaret Natural Sanctuary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Due to its geographical position, Cancun is a destination that offers a tourism specially dedicated to the beaches and its natural environment. However, it also offers a wide cultural offer both in the city and in the surrounding areas for those travellers who are also interested in learning about the history and culture of the area.
Cancun is not considered a dangerous destination as far as crime is concerned, but you should be aware that in any tourist destination theft can occur. Avoid carrying valuables, documents or large amounts of money, especially on the beaches or in the party areas.
The easiest way to get to Cancun is by landing at Cancun International Airport (CUN), which you can fly into from almost anywhere in the world.
– First, you can take the bus, which has 3 city lines: Autocar, Turicun and Maya Caribe. The cost of a ticket is around 8.50 pesos (equivalent to around 0.35€).
– Also, you can take a taxi, although it’s the most expensive form of transport. You can check fares inside the taxi itself, which will vary according to your destination.
– In addition, you can hire a car to comfortably get around Kukulcan Boulevard. Drive around the city or even drive to a suburban destination.
The best months to travel to Cancun are from December to April, as you can enjoy sunny weather with little rainfall, and prices are not too high as there is not much demand during this season.
How to plan your itinerary of the places you want to see in Cancun Mexico?
Download the Passporter app and plan your trip in the most organised way and according to the days and places you want to see in Cancun Mexico.
With the app you can:
- Be inspired by the experiences of other travellers.
- Save valuable information about the destinations you want to visit that you have found on the internet. Just install the Chrome extension and save everything useful for your trip.
- Save your tickets and reservations.
- Organise your route on google maps with your accommodation as the starting point or any other that you indicate.
- Know the best travel option for each place.
- Save and publish as you go your own photos and experiences in each of the places, for when someone asks you “How was your trip in Cancun Mexico? Visit my traveler profile on Passporter.
If you are interested in learning more about how to use and get the most out of the Passporter app, you can read our post: How to create a travel itinerary on Passporter.
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