This blog may contain affiliate links. Read our disclosure policy for more info.
Planning a short trip to Playa del Carmen? You’re in the right place!
This lively seaside town on Mexico’s Riviera Maya is the perfect blend of beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and fascinating day trips. The challenge is that there’s so much to do—between cenotes, ruins, islands, and the town itself, it can feel overwhelming to figure out where to start. But we can help!
Since we’ve been here more times than we can count, we’ve designed the perfect three-day itinerary to balance relaxation with adventure so you won’t feel rushed, but you’ll still make the most of your time. From strolling along 5th Avenue to swimming in cenotes and sailing into the sunset, Playa del Carmen has something special waiting for you.
Ready to dive in? Let’s get started!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did was this full-day Chichen Itza tour. We got goosebumps standing before the Kukulcan Pyramid, and swimming in a jungle cenote was the perfect refresh. Plus, exploring Valladolid made the day unforgettable!
Check out the 20,000+ 5-star reviews and book this tour here!
Itinerary Overview
One of the best parts about visiting Playa del Carmen is how easy it is to get around. The downtown area and beaches are compact and very walkable, so you won’t need to worry about renting a car for this itinerary. Most tours include hotel pick up, which makes day trips stress-free, and when you want to get somewhere on your own, taxis are plentiful. For longer distances, the local bus system (known as colectivos) is also a budget-friendly and reliable option.
Over the next three days, you’ll balance laid-back mornings and beach time with exciting tours that showcase the best of the Riviera Maya. We’ll start by exploring Playa del Carmen itself before heading out on a full-day adventure to either Chichen Itza or Isla Mujeres. Finally, you’ll wrap up your trip with jungle thrills, tacos, and a sunset sailing cruise. It’s a mix of sightseeing, food, and relaxation that captures the spirit of Playa perfectly!
Day 1: You’ll explore lively 5th Avenue, relax on the beach, and end the evening with a guided walking food tour through Playa del Carmen.
Day 2: This day takes you beyond the city, with the choice of a full-day tour to Chichen Itza (including a cenote and Valladolid), or a boat trip to Isla Mujeres.
Day 3: Your final day is filled with adventure, starting with a morning jungle buggy tour and wrapping up with a luxury sunset sailing cruise along the Riviera Maya.
Day 1
Breakfast – La Vagabunda
Our first morning in Playa del Carmen starts off with a hearty breakfast at La Vagabunda, a local favorite right on 5th Avenue. Opening bright and early at 7 am, it’s the perfect spot to fuel up before a day of exploring. We don’t have any tours this morning, though, so get here when you’re ready!
The menu is big and varied, with everything from traditional Mexican dishes like chilaquiles and huevos rancheros to lighter options if you prefer something simple. We loved the lively atmosphere here! You’re right in the heart of the action, which makes it a natural starting point for strolling down La Quinta.
Morning – Explore Playa del Carmen
After breakfast, spend a couple of hours strolling along 5th Avenue (La Quinta), the lively pedestrian street that really feels like the heartbeat of Playa del Carmen. It’s easy to lose track of time here, so we’d suggest allowing at least two hours to wander, browse the shops, and soak up the atmosphere.
You’ll find everything from designer boutiques to artisan markets, so whether you’re just window shopping or on the hunt for souvenirs, there’s plenty to keep you entertained.
As you walk, pop into Quinta Alegría Mall for some air-conditioned browsing or stop by Ah Cacao Chocolate Café for a mid-morning coffee or a rich slice of Mexican chocolate cake. We also love detouring off 5th Avenue into the side streets, where you’ll find smaller local shops and markets that feel far less polished but much more authentic.
Aim to wrap up your walk around late morning so you have plenty of time to grab lunch and your beach bag before you head toward the water for the afternoon.
Lunch – Señor Frog’s
By the time midday rolls around, it’s the perfect moment to take a break and grab lunch at Señor Frog’s, which opens at 11 am. This iconic spot is just as much about the lively, playful atmosphere as it is about the food.
You’ll find a mix of classic Mexican dishes, burgers, and plenty of tropical drinks, all served with a big helping of fun! The music is usually upbeat, and the staff loves to keep the energy high, so it’s a great choice if you’re in the mood for something casual and entertaining.
We think aiming to sit down around noon works well, giving you plenty of time to recharge before heading to the beach for the afternoon. Order a plate of tacos, dig into some nachos, or go all in with sizzling fajitas, lunch here always feels like part meal, part party.
Afternoon – Relax at the beach
After a busy morning of exploring, it’s time to slow down and enjoy Playa del Carmen’s biggest draw—the beach! Plan to spend a few hours here, either unwinding at your resort pool or heading to one of the public beaches nearby. Most are within a short walk or taxi ride from downtown, making it easy to find the right spot for your mood.
- Playa Mamitas – Probably the most famous beach in Playa del Carmen. The sand is free to enjoy, but just behind you’ll find the lively Playa Mamitas Beach Club, where you can grab food, order drinks, or rent a lounge chair for the afternoon.
- Playa Punta Esmeralda – A quieter, family-friendly option that locals love. The unique feature here is a small cenote that flows right onto the beach, perfect for cooling off after some time in the sun.
- Playa 88 – Located just north of the city, this stretch of sand is known for being cleaner and more peaceful than the central beaches. It’s a great choice if you’re after a more relaxed vibe.
- Playacar Beach – Head south of downtown and you’ll find this wide, calm beach. It’s usually less crowded and cleaner than the main city beaches, making it ideal for a few uninterrupted hours of sunbathing or swimming.
By the time late afternoon rolls around, you’ll feel refreshed and ready to dive into Playa’s food scene for dinner and a fun evening activity!
Evening – Taste your way around the city on a food tour
Wrap up your first day in Playa del Carmen with a treat for your taste buds that kicks off at 5 pm in downtown, just steps from 5th Avenue. On this guided Local Walking Food Tour, you’ll leave the tourist restaurants behind and dive straight into the flavors locals actually eat. The tour lasts about three hours and is a fantastic introduction to Playa’s food scene, especially if it’s your first time here.
We loved how the walk took us through bustling markets and small eateries we probably never would have found on our own. Along the way, you’ll sample everything from freshly made quesadillas with a surprise twist to tropical fruits and juices at a family-run stand.
Of course, no evening in Mexico is complete without tacos al pastor, and this tour makes sure you get some of the best. You’ll also taste mole at a traditional antojito spot before finishing on a sweet note with paletas, colorful Mexican popsicles that are perfect in the warm evening air.
By the time everything wraps up around 8 pm, you’ll not only be full but also have a deeper appreciation of Mexican cuisine and the role it plays in everyday life here. Check out over 1,000 five-star reviews here to see why this food tour is ranked among the highest in Playa del Carmen!
Check out over 1,000 5-star reviews and book this popular food tour here!
Day 2
Today is all about getting out of Playa del Carmen and experiencing more of the Riviera Maya. You’ve got two incredible options, each offering something totally different. If history and culture are calling your name, a full-day tour to Chichen Itza, a cenote, and the colonial town of Valladolid is the perfect way to step back in time and see one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
On the other hand, if you’d rather keep things light and tropical, a catamaran trip to Isla Mujeres gives you a full day of sunshine, snorkeling, and island vibes. Both tours are fantastic—it just depends on whether you’re craving ancient ruins and tradition or crystal-clear waters and laid-back fun.
Full Day Option 1: Visit Chichen Itza, a cenote, and Valladolid
If you’re ready for a day steeped in history and culture, this full-day tour to Chichen Itza is one of the most rewarding trips we’ve taken from Playa del Carmen. Hotel pickup runs between 6:30 and 7:30 am, and from there we head inland to Chichen Itza, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
Standing before the Kukulcan Pyramid is unforgettable, especially as the guide explains how Mayan astronomers designed it so the serpent shadow appears during the equinox. We had about 2 hours here, which gave us enough time to walk the main plaza and see some of the surrounding temples, too.
Afterward, nothing feels better than a swim in a cenote, a natural sinkhole with cool turquoise water hidden in the jungle. Sliding into the water was such a refreshing break, and it’s easy to see why these places were sacred to the Maya. Lunch is included at a nearby spot, giving us a chance to recharge before the final stop in Valladolid.
This small colonial town has such a colorful, laid-back charm—we loved strolling the plaza, admiring the pastel-colored streets, and peeking into little shops before heading back to Playa in the evening.
At the time of booking, we suggest choosing the all-inclusive option, since it covers your entrance fees, lunch extras, and even a lifejacket at the cenote. It makes the day smoother, though it’s still a good idea to bring some pesos along for snacks or souvenirs.
With over 20,000 five-star reviews, this is a tour you don’t want to miss—book here!
Full Day Option 2: Isla Mujeres day trip
Just off the coast near Cancún lies Isla Mujeres, a little island paradise that quickly became one of our favorite day trips from Playa del Carmen. Known as the “Island of Women,” it’s home to stunning beaches, colorful streets, and a laid-back Caribbean vibe.
For this itinerary, we recommend booking this popular catamaran tour at 11:30 am, which gives you time for a relaxed breakfast before pickup (which will begin a bit earlier). You’ll be back in Playa del Carmen around 6 pm, making it a shorter and more leisurely option than Chichen Itza.
The moment we stepped onto the catamaran, we felt like vacation had truly begun. The sea breeze, sunshine, and open deck set the perfect tone. The first stop is a snorkeling session at the second-largest coral reef in the world, where the guides made us feel completely safe and comfortable in the water. Once snorkeling is done, it’s time for a gourmet lunch and open bar onboard, the perfect way to enjoy the warm afternoon.
Arriving at Isla Mujeres is a treat in itself. You’ll have a few hours to explore on your own, whether that’s wandering the island’s colorful streets, relaxing on Playa Norte (often named one of the best beaches in Mexico), or joining a guided mini tour of the island.
We loved how flexible this part of the day felt, with plenty of time to soak in the scenery at our own pace. With thousands of rave reviews, it’s no surprise this trip is considered one of the very best things to do in Playa del Carmen.
You can book this unforgettable day tour with FREE 24-hour cancellation here!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
Dinner – La Cueva del Chango
After a full day of exploring, dinner at La Cueva del Chango is the perfect way to wind down. This beloved Mexican restaurant is known for its lush jungle patio, where tables are set among greenery and twinkling lights, creating a relaxed and romantic vibe.
The menu highlights traditional dishes made with fresh, local ingredients, and the mole here is a standout. We also loved the fresh juices and drinks, they pair so well with the rich flavors of the food.
Arriving back from your tour in the evening, this spot feels like a little oasis in the middle of Playa del Carmen. It’s popular, so making a reservation here is a smart idea if you’re visiting in high season.
Evening – Mamitas Beach Club
If you still have some energy in the tank after dinner, head over to Mamitas Beach Club, one of Playa del Carmen’s best-known nightlife spots. Just a 10-minute walk from La Cueva del Chango, this beachfront club blends the fun of a party with the beauty of the Caribbean. DJs keep the music going late into the night, and there’s often a lively mix of locals and travelers dancing under the stars.
Having your feet in the sand while enjoying a drink and good music really feels like the quintessential Playa experience. If you’re looking to dive into the city’s nightlife scene, this is a great place to start.
Day 3
Morning – Go on an ATV excursion
You’ll kick off your final day in Playa del Carmen with a burst of adventure on this 3-hour jungle buggy tour! We recommend the 8:30 am departure, since it gives you plenty of time for the rest of the day, although the 11:30 am option is great too if you had a late night. With hotel pickup included, we found it easy to just show up and let the fun begin.
Once you’re behind the wheel of a 4×4 Can-Am buggy, get ready for a thrilling ride through the lush Riviera Maya jungle. You’ll drive about 25 miles (40 km), bouncing along muddy trails and passing through stretches of thick tropical greenery.
We loved the stop midway at a hidden cenote, where we swam, snorkeled, and explored a small cave. The cool, fresh water felt amazing after the ride, and it really broke up the morning in the best way!
The tour runs for about three hours (just note it’s not available on Sundays), and with snacks and water included, you’ll be back in Playa by lunchtime. We came away from this one grinning ear to ear—it struck the perfect balance of adrenaline and relaxation!
Ready for a little adventure? Book your spot on this buggy tour here!
Lunch – El Fogón
By the time you finish the Jungle Buggy Tour around 11:30 am, you’ll be ready for a hearty lunch back in Playa del Carmen. El Fogón is the perfect stop, a no-frills, authentic taco restaurant that’s hugely popular with both locals and visitors. The atmosphere is casual and lively, with the smell of meat sizzling on the grill greeting you as soon as you arrive.
We couldn’t get enough of their al pastor tacos, carved straight from the spit and topped with pineapple, cilantro, and onion. The portions are generous and the prices are very reasonable, so you can order a few different tacos to try without overthinking it. It felt like the ideal post-adventure meal, satisfying and packed with flavor.
Afternoon – Your choice
After finishing up at El Fogón, you’ll likely be back on your feet by around 1 pm. That leaves you with a relaxed afternoon to spend however you’d like. You might want to take it easy by lounging at your hotel pool or heading back to the beach for one last swim. Playa del Carmen has no shortage of sandy spots, and sometimes the best plan is simply grabbing a towel and letting the hours slip by in the sun.
If you’re up for a little more activity, there are some great local spots worth checking out. For shopping, the Playa del Carmen flea market is a fun place to browse colorful souvenirs and handmade crafts. We also love Chela de Playa, a local brewery pouring crisp craft beers that are perfect for a hot afternoon.
And if a beachfront drink sounds more your style, Zenzi Beach Club has a laid-back vibe with live music and plenty of shade. However you choose to spend these hours, the idea is to keep it light and relaxed before your evening cruise.
Evening – Relax on a sunset cruise
After a laid-back afternoon in Playa, it’s time to end your trip on a high note on this luxury sunset sailing cruise. Pickup from your hotel will be arranged in advance, so you can simply sit back and enjoy as you’re taken to the marina. Then, the boat departs at 5:30 pm, giving you front-row seats to one of the most beautiful times of day on the Riviera Maya.
Once on board the catamaran, you’ll be treated to snacks and an open bar while the crew takes care of everything. Sailing along the coastline as the sky shifts from soft pinks to deep purples is a magical experience, and it feels even more special with the sea breeze in your hair and a drink in hand.
We loved how calm and unhurried the evening felt! It was the perfect way to soak up the beauty of the Caribbean before saying goodbye to Playa del Carmen. The cruise ends around 7:30 pm, and by the time you’re dropped back at your hotel, you’ll be floating into your final dinner with a smile!
You can reserve this sunset cruise with flexible payment options here!
Dinner – Zitla
Back on land, wrap up your final night in Playa del Carmen with dinner at Zitla, a lively downtown spot that always feels full of energy. The atmosphere here is casual and colorful, with a mix of indoor and outdoor seating that makes it great for groups or a fun night out. The menu leans on Mexican favorites with a creative twist, and the cocktails are just as memorable as the food.
We loved the upbeat vibe—it felt like the kind of place where you could linger over dinner without rushing. After a sunset cruise, it’s the perfect setting to share stories from your trip and toast to three amazing days in Playa del Carmen.
Related Read: Want even more ideas for your trip? Check out our guide to 10 fun and exciting things to do in Playa del Carmen here for tours, activities, and hidden gems you won’t want to miss.
Where to Stay in Playa Del Carmen
Now that you’ve got your days in Playa del Carmen all planned out, you’ll need somewhere to stay. With so many options, it can be tough to decide, so we’ve narrowed it down to our favorites for different budgets and styles. If any of these still have availability for your travel dates, grab them while you can—hotels here book up fast, especially during peak season.
El Taj Oceanfront and Beachside Condo Hotel – $$$
For luxury travelers, The El Taj Oceanfront and Beachside Condo Hotel offers a great central location that’s still secluded. As the name suggests, this hotel is right on the ocean, plus it also has a pool, is located in the heart of town, and offers a huge variety of rooms, including one, two, and three-bedroom apartments!
Rooms here at El Taj start around $200 USD, which is pretty good considering how fantastic the rooms are. You can check out available dates and book your stay online here.
Soho Playa Hotel – $$
When I’m traveling on a moderate budget and want a nice place, not in a resort, I love Soho Playa Hotel. The hotel has a fantastic location, a pool, free breakfast, an on-site restaurant, and a really clean and modern design. Plus, if you feel like stretching out and relaxing, you can even make the most of their free yoga classes!
A one-night stay here at the Soho Playa Hotel starts at around $135 USD per person. This is quite a popular hotel, though, so make sure to reserve your room online in advance!
Che Playa Hostel and Bar – $
For budget travelers, Che Playa Hostel and Bar is one of the best hostels in Playa del Carmen. The hostel is located in the heart of town and comes with a small rooftop pool and bar, a social atmosphere, clean facilities, and helpful staff.
The rooms are pretty affordable, as you might expect! A bed in a dorm here for one night costs less than $25 USD per person, and you can book on Hostelworld or Booking.com.
Related Read: Want more hotel options? Check out our detailed guide on where to stay in Playa del Carmen here, with the best neighborhoods and stays for every budget.
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!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.
Thanks for reading!
We hope this 3-day Playa del Carmen itinerary helps you plan an unforgettable getaway! From strolling along 5th Avenue to swimming in hidden cenotes, exploring Chichen Itza, or sailing out on the Caribbean at sunset, every moment here brings its own kind of magic. The balance of beach time, adventure, and culture is exactly why we keep coming back again and again.
If you’re planning more travels around this area, don’t miss all our other Mexico guides here—we’ve shared plenty of personal tips and recommendations to make your trip smoother. Or check out some of our most popular blogs below for even more travel inspiration!
Where to Stay in Tulum, Mexico: 7 Best Areas & Hotels
How to Spend THREE DAYS in Cozumel, Mexico – The Best 3-Day Itinerary
How to Spend FIVE DAYS in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico – The Best 5-Day Itinerary