How to Spend FIVE DAYS in Cancun, Mexico: 5-Day Itinerary

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Cancún is a place where powdery beaches, shimmering Caribbean water, ancient ruins, and lively local flavors all compete for your attention. With so many amazing experiences on offer, it’s easy to wonder what to prioritize or how to fit it all in. That’s where this itinerary comes in!

After spending time exploring both the Hotel Zone and the wider Riviera Maya, we’ve pulled together a five-day plan that balances big adventures with relaxed moments, cultural highlights with fun day trips, and plenty of great meals along the way.

Here’s exactly how to enjoy the best of Cancún—organized, stress-free, and filled with unforgettable days.

Itinerary Overview

Getting around Cancún is surprisingly easy, especially if you’re staying in the Hotel Zone, where most hotels, beaches, malls, and restaurants line a single road, Boulevard Kukulcán. The red R1 and R2 buses run along this strip every few minutes and continue into downtown, offering a fast and very affordable way to move around for confident travelers. For those who prefer door-to-door comfort, especially older visitors, taxis or hotel-arranged ride services are the better choice.

It’s also worth noting that many of the major tours in this itinerary include hotel pickup and drop-off, so transportation on big excursion days is completely taken care of. With that in mind, you’ll be perfectly set up to explore Cancún and its surrounding highlights with ease.

Here’s a quick look at what your five days in Cancún will look like:

Day 1: Ease into Cancun with a light beachfront breakfast, a scenic stroll at Playa Delfines, and a thrilling speedboat and snorkeling adventure through Nichupté Lagoon. Refuel at La Isla, enjoy a relaxed afternoon by the pool, and wrap up the day with a taco-and-brew tour through downtown’s most authentic taquerías.

Day 2: Sail to Isla Mujeres on a luxury catamaran for snorkeling and beach time before enjoying a cultural afternoon at the Museo Maya and San Miguelito ruins. End the evening with steak and seafood at Puerto Madero and a peaceful lagoon-side stroll.

Day 3: Spend your day exploring the ancient world on a full-day tour to Chichén Itzá, complete with a cenote swim, buffet lunch, and free time in colorful Valladolid, then return to Cancun for a cozy, traditional Mexican dinner at Hacienda Sisal.

Day 4: Start slow with a relaxed morning before venturing into the underground world of Río Secreto for a day of cave exploration, crystal-clear rivers, and quiet nature. Finish with a calming Thai dinner at Elefanthai, complete with lagoon views and warm evening light.

Day 5: Choose your perfect finale: explore Tulum’s clifftop ruins and swim in a cenote, or dive into a full day at Xcaret Eco Park with rivers, wildlife, culture, and a spectacular nighttime show. End your final night with sunset dining at RosaNegra overlooking Nichupté Lagoon.

Day 1

Breakfast – Hotel breakfast or nearby beachfront café

There’s no better way to ease into your first morning in Cancun than by keeping things slow and simple. You’ve got a boat tour coming up around midday, so this is the perfect moment to enjoy something light before the adventure kicks off. Most hotels in the Hotel Zone serve a solid breakfast with things like fresh fruit, eggs, yogurt, pastries, and a good cup of coffee. It’s easy, it’s convenient, and it lets you linger a bit while you wake up to that Caribbean sunshine.

If you prefer to head out, there are plenty of casual beachfront cafés nearby. The red local bus runs up and down Boulevard Kukulcán all day, and it’s an easy way to hop between spots in the Hotel Zone. A taxi will get you there in about 5 to 10 minutes from most hotels, too.

One of my favorite laid-back breakfast stops is The Surfin Burrito, a super chill little café just across from the beach. They’ve got tasty breakfast burritos, simple egg dishes, and cold coffee drinks that hit the spot—plus they open early at 7 am. It’s the kind of place where you can grab something filling without feeling stuffed before your boat day begins.

Morning – Ease into Cancun with a beach walk and Hotel Zone views

After breakfast, head over to Playa Delfines (Dolphin Beach), one of the prettiest public beaches in the Hotel Zone and a perfect first stop to settle into that Cancun rhythm. This is where you’ll find the colorful Cancun sign—ideal for those classic “we made it!” arrival photos—along with a wide stretch of soft sand and a breezy viewpoint overlooking the turquoise water. You don’t need to plan a full beach day here; just a short walk along the shore or a few minutes taking in the view is enough to start the morning on a relaxed note.

Getting here is easy. From The Surfin Burrito or most central Hotel Zone hotels, it’s about 10–20 minutes south by taxi or on the red R1/R2 bus, which stops right next to the viewpoint. Timing-wise, this works well—you’ll have plenty of time to wander, enjoy the scenery, and still make it to your midday boat tour without feeling rushed.

Early afternoon – Head out on a speedboat and snorkeling adventure to Nichupté Lagoon

After your relaxed morning, shift into adventure mode with one of Cancun’s most exciting experiences—this jungle speedboat and snorkel tour. The 12 pm option fits perfectly after your beach stop and still leaves plenty of daylight to enjoy the afternoon. Plus, the meeting point is just a 5-minute taxi ride from Playa Delfines, so the transition is super easy.

The tour starts with a short safety briefing at the marina, followed by simple instructions on how to drive your own two-person speedboat. Even total beginners pick it up quickly. Once you’re out on the water, the real fun begins—racing through the mangrove-lined channels of Nichupté Lagoon. The mix of jungle scenery, calm lagoon water, and the feeling of zipping through narrow waterways makes this ride feel straight out of an adventure film.

Midway through, you’ll stop at Punta Nizuc for a guided snorkel. This spot sits at the edge of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, so expect colorful fish, patches of coral, and clear blue water that’s easy for swimmers of all skill levels. The guides stay close and make the experience accessible for everyone.

With over 1,000 five-star reviews, this tour is consistently rated among the top activities in Cancun. It’s fast, fun, beginner-friendly, and an unforgettable way to see both the lagoon and the reef—all wrapped up in just two hours.

Snag your spot on this exciting speedboat tour here!

Lunch – La Isla Cancún

After you make it back to the marina, head over to La Isla Shopping Village for an easy, flexible lunch break. It’s one of the best spots in the Hotel Zone to refuel because everything is close together, mostly shaded, and super walkable—exactly what you want after a couple of hours on the water. 

You’ll find plenty of lagoon-side restaurants here, whether you’re craving a relaxed seafood meal at Cancun Lighthouse Restaurant or something more casual like tacos or Mexican plates at Taco y Tequila. There are also burgers, cafés, and quick bites, depending on how hungry you are after the tour.

Getting here is simple: from the marina, it’s usually a 5–10-minute taxi ride or a short bus ride along Boulevard Kukulcán. And when you’re done eating, getting back to most mid-zone hotels is another easy 5–10 minutes by taxi. By the time you wrap up lunch and wander a bit, it’ll likely be around 3:30 pm, giving you a comfortable 2.5-hour break before your evening food tour. 

Afternoon – Pool time and light shopping near La Isla

This part of the day is all about taking it easy. After lunch, head back to your hotel for a quick shower and some downtime, whether that means lounging by the pool, relaxing in a shady spot, or enjoying your hotel’s stretch of beach. You’ve had a fun, active morning, so giving yourself a little break before the evening food tour makes the whole day feel more balanced.

If you’re still feeling energized, you can pop back over to La Isla Shopping Village or wander through nearby Plaza Party for a bit of light shopping or a mid-afternoon coffee. Both areas are easy to navigate and offer plenty of small shops where you can pick up souvenirs or simply stroll around without committing to anything big. This time block is meant to stay flexible—no rushing, no tight timing—just a relaxed window before gearing up for the next activity.

Since all of these spots sit along Boulevard Kukulcán, getting around is straightforward, and you can reach them in 5–10 minutes by taxi or by hopping on the red local bus.

Dinner/Evening – Taste your way through downtown Cancun

For your first evening in Cancun, it’s time to jump into the city’s true food scene with this downtown taco and beer food tour. While the Hotel Zone has plenty of good restaurants, the most authentic Mexican flavors are found downtown, and this tour takes you straight to the best taquerías without you having to navigate anything on your own.

It starts at 6 pm and includes hotel pickup, making it an easy transition from your relaxing afternoon. The whole experience runs for about 4.5 hours, usually wrapping up around 10:30 pm.

With your English-speaking guide leading the way, you’ll visit several local favorites serving everything from tender carne asada to perfectly seasoned al pastor, carved fresh from the flame. These tacos are the real deal: spicy, juicy, smoky, and packed with flavor in a way the Hotel Zone just can’t replicate. Along the way, you’ll enjoy four beers, dessert, and even a bit of live Mariachi music, turning the evening into a complete cultural experience.

Everything is included—your tastings, drinks, dessert, and hotel pickup—so you’ll head back absolutely stuffed and satisfied. It’s one of the most fun and flavorful ways to experience downtown Cancun beyond the beaches!

Taste the best of Cancun—book your spot on this taco and beer tour here!

Day 2

Morning/Early afternoon – Sail to Isla Mujeres on a catamaran and swim at Playa Norte

Day two begins with a classic Cancun experience, and this time you’ll be heading straight for Isla Mujeres aboard a luxury catamaran. The island is famous for its white-sand beaches and bright turquoise water, and this cruise is one of the most relaxing ways to enjoy it. 

We recommend the adults-only morning departure at 8:30 am, which lasts about 5.5 hours and gets you back around 2 pm. Families can choose the 11:30 am option, a kid-friendly version that returns closer to 5 pm.

Once you’re on board, the day unfolds at a leisurely, Caribbean pace. The crew sails along Cancun’s coastline toward Isla Mujeres, and the ride is scenic and fun thanks to the open bar, sunny deck space, and calm water. There’s also a snorkeling stop along the way where the water is clear enough to see schools of fish gliding over the reef below.

When you reach the island, you’ll have time to explore at your own pace or follow the guide to a few favorite viewpoints. Isla Mujeres is small but full of charm—gorgeous beaches, colorful streets, and shops that are fun to wander through. After a bit of island time, everyone boards the catamaran again for a breezy ride back to Cancun, complete with more drinks, great views, and plenty of time to relax.

It’s the kind of outing that feels both effortless and memorable, and a perfect way to ease into your third day in the Mexican Caribbean.

Read THOUSANDS of reviews and book this catamaran cruise here!

Afternoon – Slow afternoon at the Museo Maya de Cancún and San Miguelito ruins

Once your catamaran docks around 2 pm, head back to the hotel for a quick shower, a change of clothes, and a little downtime. After a full morning on the water, giving yourself about an hour to reset makes the afternoon feel much smoother.

Around 3:30 pm, take a short taxi ride to the Museo Maya de Cancún, located right in the Hotel Zone. This modern, air-conditioned museum is a great low-effort cultural stop, especially if you want to dive a bit deeper into Mayan history without committing to another big excursion. Inside, you’ll find beautifully presented exhibits featuring carved stone pieces, pottery, and models that help tie together everything you learned at Chichén Itzá. The space is bright, accessible, and easy to navigate, with ramps and lifts that make it comfortable for all ages.

Just outside the museum, a shaded path leads to the San Miguelito ruins, a compact archaeological site tucked among the trees. The walk is flat and manageable, and the small clusters of structures offer a peaceful glimpse into everyday Mayan life.

Entrance to both the museum and ruins is 90 pesos (about $5 USD), making it an easy, worthwhile outing. From most mid-zone hotels, the trip is roughly 5–15 minutes by taxi along Boulevard Kukulcán.

If you’re feeling tired after the cruise, you can always skip the museum and spend the whole afternoon relaxing by the pool instead. Still, the Museo Maya and San Miguelito combo is a gentle, engaging way to round out the day before dinner.

Dinner – Puerto Madero Cancún

After a relaxed afternoon of culture and light exploring, ease into the evening with dinner at Puerto Madero Cancún, one of the Hotel Zone’s most polished yet welcoming restaurants. Known for its Argentinian-style steaks and fresh seafood, this spot combines excellent food with a refined, modern atmosphere. If the weather is nice, reserve a table on the terrace overlooking Nichupté Lagoon—it’s a beautiful place to unwind as the sun sets over the water. 

From most mid-zone hotels, you’re only a 5–10 minute taxi ride away along Boulevard Kukulcán, and hotel staff can help arrange transportation both ways.

Evening – Go for a stroll alongside the Lagoon

Once you’ve finished dinner, take a few minutes to enjoy a gentle walk along the lagoon-side walkway near Puerto Madero. It’s quiet, breezy, and a lovely way to stretch your legs after a big meal. The reflections on the water at night make this area exceptionally peaceful.

When you’re ready, hop into a taxi for an easy ride back to your hotel. End the night with a relaxed drink in the lobby bar or simply call it an early evening—you have an early start tomorrow!

Day 3

Morning/Afternoon – Step back in time at Chichen Itza

Kick off day three with a bucket-list experience—this full-day tour to Chichén Itzá, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and the most famous Mayan archaeological site in Mexico. We recommend choosing the all-inclusive option, but the standard hotel pickup and drop-off works well too. Pickup usually begins around 6–6:30 am (exact time varies by hotel), and the entire experience lasts about 12 hours, giving you a full day of history, culture, and exploration without feeling rushed.

You’ll arrive at Chichén Itzá early, before the biggest crowds and midday heat. Your guide sets the scene right away, leading you to El Castillo, the iconic pyramid designed with incredible astronomical precision. Hearing how the structure aligns with the sun during the equinox makes seeing it in person even more impressive. 

From there, you’ll walk through the ancient grounds to highlights like The Great Ball Court, the largest in Mesoamerica, where the Mayans once played the ritual ball game pitz. Standing inside the massive stone court while learning its history is a surreal experience.

After exploring the ruins, the tour takes you to a nearby cenote for a refreshing swim, followed by a laid-back buffet lunch and a tequila tasting—a fun way to experience local flavors. The final stop of the day is the colorful colonial town of Valladolid, where you’ll have time to wander the charming plaza and take in the slower pace of local life.

With over 5,000 five-star reviews, this tour is a clear traveler favorite and one of the best ways to immerse yourself in the history and culture of the Yucatán Peninsula.

Secure this top-rated Chichén Itzá adventure here!

Dinner/Evening – Hacienda Sisal

After a full day exploring ruins, cenotes, and colonial towns, unwind with a relaxed dinner at Hacienda Sisal, one of the most atmospheric yet welcoming restaurants in the Hotel Zone. Dinner service runs from 5 pm–10 pm daily (except Sundays), so timing works nicely after your full-day tour.

Set in a traditional hacienda-style building, the restaurant feels warm and inviting—dim lighting, rustic arches, and a calm courtyard vibe that’s perfect after a long day on your feet. The menu focuses on classic Mexican dishes done really well. You can expect favorites like cochinita pibil, sizzling fajitas, rich mole, fresh handmade tortillas, and plenty of salsas that bring out the region’s flavors. Pair it all with a margarita (they’re known for them) or a local beer if you’re craving something cold and refreshing.

From most mid-zone hotels, it’s about a 5–10 minute taxi ride along Boulevard Kukulcán, but it’s a popular spot for both visitors and locals, so reservations are recommended, especially if you prefer a quieter table or want to avoid a wait.

Day 4

Morning – Grab breakfast and enjoy an easy morning

Start day four with something light and relaxed after yesterday’s full schedule. Grab breakfast at your hotel or a nearby café sometime between 8 and 9 am, keeping it simple with fruit, eggs, pastries, or whatever feels good before an active afternoon ahead. Once you’ve eaten, enjoy a gentle start to the day—take a short walk along your hotel’s beach, sip a coffee in the lobby bar, or settle into a lounge chair by the pool with a book.

If you’ve chosen the transportation-included option for today’s activity (which we recommend), aim to be back in your room and ready to meet the guide 20–30 minutes before your scheduled Río Secreto pickup time. This gives you a comfortable buffer to change, gather your things, and wait in the lobby without rushing. It’s a calm, easy way to begin what will soon turn into a very memorable adventure.

Late morning/Afternoon – Discover the hidden world of Rio Secreto

This underground river tour takes you beneath the surface of the Yucatán Peninsula into Río Secreto, a protected network of underground rivers and crystal-clear caves near Playa del Carmen. We recommend choosing the transport-included option, which typically begins around 11 am. It’s a smooth, comfortable way to get there, and the timing works perfectly with your morning. The experience lasts about 6 hours, so you’ll return to Cancun around 5 pm.

Río Secreto is unlike anything else in the region—a quiet, otherworldly environment filled with dramatic stalactites, stalagmites, and shimmering freshwater pools. Walking through the dimly lit passages can feel a little intimidating at first, but guides stay with you the entire time, and the routes are safe, shallow, and manageable for most travelers. 

Once you settle in, it becomes incredibly peaceful, and the natural formations are mesmerizing. Kids and adults alike tend to love this experience because it feels like stepping into a hidden world.

After exploring the cave system for a couple of hours, you’ll enjoy a buffet lunch included with your visit. Some versions of the tour also offer add-ons—like short visits to nearby Mayan ruins or extra adventure activities—though the classic cave route is more than enough on its own. One important note: skip sunscreen and bug spray for this activity, as the chemicals can harm the delicate cave ecosystem (and you won’t need them underground anyway).

Río Secreto is also a great choice on a cloudy or rainy day since the entire experience is underground. It’s a unique, low-impact, and truly memorable way to spend the afternoon.

This tour may sell out—book it here and get FREE 24-hour cancellation!

Dinner/Evening – Elefanthai

After an afternoon of exploring Río Secreto’s hidden world, unwind with a peaceful dinner at Elefanthai, one of the most atmospheric lagoon-side restaurants in the Hotel Zone. The setting is charming with wooden decks, warm lighting, and cozy palapa-style nooks that feel tucked away from the busier parts of Cancun. If you arrive just before dusk, you’ll catch the last soft light over Nichupté Lagoon, followed by shimmering reflections from the Hotel Zone once night falls.

The menu leans toward flavorful Thai curries, noodles, and shareable plates, making it a refreshing change from the Mexican dishes earlier in your trip. The environment is calm and intimate rather than loud or rushed, which is especially nice for travelers who want a relaxing, sit-down dinner after a full day of adventure. Making a reservation online is recommended, especially if you prefer a lagoon-view table.

Most Hotel Zone hotels are only a 5–10 minute taxi ride away along Boulevard Kukulcán, and after dinner, you’ll find taxis waiting near the main entrance of La Isla Shopping Village, making it an easy ride back to your hotel for a quiet nightcap or an early bedtime. It’s a peaceful, restorative way to round out the day.

Related Read: If you find yourself with some extra time, see our top things to do in Cancun blog for even more fun activities!

Day 5

Today gives you a choice between two standout experiences, depending on what you’re in the mood for. If you’re craving history, ocean views, and a refreshing cenote swim, Tulum is the classic pick. But if you’d prefer a full day of water, culture, wildlife, and an unforgettable nighttime show, then Xcaret Eco Park offers a full-immersion experience from morning to night. Both options are easy, guided, and completely stress-free.

Option 1: Morning/Afternoon – Walk the clifftop ruins of Tulum and swim in a cenote

This full-day Tulum ruins and cenote tour is ideal if you want a mix of ancient history, dramatic scenery, and refreshing swims. The tour begins early, with pickup around 6 am, and lasts up to 10 hours, wrapping up near 4 pm—perfect for making the most of the cooler morning hours at the ruins.

Your first stop is Tulum Archaeological Zone, where the Mayan ruins sit dramatically on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea. With your guide, you’ll explore temples, coastal viewpoints, and learn about the city that once functioned as a major seaport. The setting is stunning, with a turquoise ocean below and stone structures above, and photographing the views alone feels worth the trip.

After exploring the ruins, you’ll have time to relax at Tulum Beach, wander the shoreline, or even snorkel in the clear waters with the ruins as your backdrop. Later, the tour continues to a nearby cenote, where you can cool off in freshwater pools formed by underground rivers. Swimming in a cenote is one of the Yucatán’s signature experiences—calming, refreshing, and completely unique.

Lunch, snorkeling gear, and guided commentary are all included, making this a smooth, easy way to see some of the Riviera Maya’s most iconic sights. With THOUSANDS of glowing reviews, it’s a top choice for travelers who want a complete but balanced adventure day.

Check availability for this Tulum and cenote adventure here!

Option 2: Morning/Afternoon – Explore Xcaret Eco Park

If you’re in the mood for a day packed with variety, this full-day Xcaret Eco Park tour is an excellent choice. Pickup times are coordinated in advance, and once you arrive at the park, you’ll have an entire day to explore its blend of nature, culture, and water activities—plus an incredible evening show that’s considered one of the best performances in the region.

Xcaret isn’t just a waterpark – it’s an eco-adventure park built around rivers, coves, jungles, and archaeological features. You can float down underground rivers, snorkel in the Caleta inlet, relax on the beach, wander through a butterfly sanctuary, explore small Mayan pyramids, or watch live cultural presentations throughout the day. There’s also an aquarium, a sea turtle sanctuary, and optional (extra) wildlife encounters like swimming with dolphins or manta rays.

If you want a smoother experience, upgrading to the Xcaret Plus service is recommended. It includes buffet lunch, lockers, dressing rooms, and snorkeling equipment—handy when you’ll likely be in and out of the water all day.

As evening settles in, stay for Xcaret México Espectacular, a massive performance featuring traditional dance, music, and storytelling that beautifully captures Mexico’s culture and history. It’s a spectacular way to end the day and a highlight for many visitors.

This is a full, unforgettable experience that lasts the entire day and into the evening. It’s perfect for travelers who want a high-energy finale to their Cancun itinerary!

Don’t miss this fun-filled experience—reserve your Xcaret pass here!

Dinner/Evening – RosaNegra

For your final night in Cancun, celebrate in style at RosaNegra, one of the Hotel Zone’s most striking lagoon-side restaurants. Set along the edge of Nichupté Lagoon, the space features multilevel wooden decks that stretch out over the water—an incredible setting for sunset, when the sky glows gold, and the reflections shimmer all around. 

The menu leans into modern Mexican and Latin flavors, blending high-quality ingredients with creative presentation. Think beautifully grilled meats, vibrant ceviches, handmade tortillas, and bold, colorful dishes that feel festive without being overly heavy. The atmosphere is lively but polished, with a sense of occasion that makes dinner here feel like a true finale to your trip.

Because it’s such a popular spot, making a reservation here is highly recommended, especially for sunset tables. So, it’s worth planning ahead to secure a good view. 

Linger over dinner, soak up the lagoon breeze, and enjoy your final night in Cancun with a place that delivers great food, gorgeous scenery, and the perfect celebratory atmosphere.

Where to Stay in Cancun, Mexico

Choosing where to stay in Cancún is key to planning your trip, especially with so many great options along the Hotel Zone. Whether you prefer a full-service resort, a spacious mid-range stay, or a budget-friendly spot near the beach, there’s something for every traveler and budget.

Here are three standout picks across luxury, mid-range, and budget categories. Just note that hotels in the Hotel Zone fill up fast in peak season—so if you see availability for your travel dates, it’s best to book sooner rather than later.

Luxury – $$$

Grand Park Royal Cancun is an upscale all-inclusive resort set on its own private stretch of white-sand beach in the Hotel Zone. Rooms feature sea views, balconies, minibars, and flat-screen TVs, while upgraded villas add perks like butler service and 24-hour room service. With two oceanfront pools, a spa, and multiple restaurants serving Italian, seafood, Mexican, and Asian cuisine, you’ll have plenty of variety without leaving the property. 

Depending on the season and room choice, rates typically range from about $200–$550 USD per night. Check availability and book Grand Park Royal Cancun on Booking.com.

Mid-range – $$

Beachscape Kin Ha Villas & Suites is a fantastic mid-range pick in the Hotel Zone, especially if you want extra space and a more relaxed, low-rise beachfront setting. Rooms and suites come with kitchenettes, balconies, and free WiFi, while the larger villas are great for families or longer stays. The property sits on one of Cancun’s calmest, widest beaches and features a large pool, gardens, and two on-site restaurants serving everything from Mexican dishes to international favorites.

Nightly rates typically fall between $140–$220 USD for rooms and suites, with villas available at higher rates. See current deals and availability on Booking.com.

Budget – $

Mayan Monkey Cancun – Social Hotel is one of the best budget stays in the Hotel Zone, offering a fun, modern, adults-only atmosphere just steps from Playa Chac Mool. The property features a pool with lagoon views, a lively bar and restaurant, strong WiFi, and even a shared kitchen—great for keeping costs down. You can book private double rooms with queen beds or upgrade to spacious suites, while dorm beds offer the most affordable option.

Expect dorms from about $23–$35 USD per night and private rooms and suites from around $105–$150 USD. Check availability and current prices on Booking.com.

For even more great options, check out all the accommodations listed for Cancun here!

Related Read: Need some help navigating the hotel zone? Check out our Ultimate Guide to Cancun’s Hotel Zone to learn about our personal tips, favorite areas, and must-book hotels and activities.

Renting a Car in Mexico

Undoubtedly, one of the best ways to get around Mexico is in a rental car. 

I struggled to get around by bus and taxi for the longest time. But after renting a car in Cancun in 2023, I never looked back. It allowed me to explore the country without worrying about tours or taxis. It was why I fell in love with Mexico and eventually decided to live here periodically. 

I refuse to use local services whenever I rent a car in Mexico. The truth is they sometimes can’t be trusted or come with hidden fees (or costly insurance that doesn’t make sense.) There are even rental car scams! So instead, I use Discover Cars, the company most experienced travelers or ex-pats in Mexico recommend. Read my honest review of Discover Cars here for more details!

The rates on Discover Cars are cheap, too, with the average rental costing around $25 USD per day. Full coverage insurance can be added for an extra $10 USD a day too. 

Driving in Mexico also only requires a driver’s license using the Roman alphabet. If yours uses another like Japan and China, you simply need an international driving permit. 

Insurance is required, but if you book with Discover Cars and get the full coverage, that’s all you need! Oh, and being over 18 is required, and if you’re over 25, your rental will be much cheaper! 

Thanks for reading!

After traveling to Cancun countless times, we’ve perfected a 5-day itinerary! Between the stunning beaches, water-filled day trips, and tasty local food, your vacation will be the perfect balance of relaxation and adventure. Just be sure to secure your experiences and hotels in advance, especially if you’re traveling during peak times, as Cancun is popular (we learned this the hard way!).

Need more resources? See all of our Mexico blogs here. We have lots of guides about traveling around the Yucatan, just in case your trip takes you further than Cancun. Here are a few related blogs to inspire your next destination – cheers!

10 Things to Know BEFORE Booking a Taco Tour in Cancun, Mexico

21 Things to KNOW Before Renting a Car in Cancun

Where to Stay in Playa del Carmen, Mexico: 6 Areas & Hotels