How to Spend THREE DAYS in Tulum, Mexico: 3-Day Itinerary

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Planning a trip to Tulum? You’re in for a treat!

This beachy Mexican town has exploded in popularity over the past few years—and once you visit, you’ll definitely see why. With white-sand coastlines, ancient ruins, jungle adventures, incredible food, and a laid-back vibe, it’s the perfect escape.

After many vacations here, we’ve uncovered the best tours, eats, and chill spots that Tulum has to offer. Whether you’re craving cenote swims, street tacos, or just some much-needed sunshine, this three-day Tulum itinerary will help you experience the highlights—without the stress of figuring it all out on the fly. Let’s dive in!

Itinerary Overview

This three-day Tulum itinerary blends just the right amount of adventure, culture, and chill time, so you can experience the best of the region without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. We’ve carefully curated this guide based on multiple visits, balancing iconic highlights with local gems that are totally worth your time.

From swimming in magical cenotes and visiting ancient Mayan ruins to lounging on white-sand beaches, this itinerary has a little something for everyone. You’ll have guided tours where it counts, plenty of flexibility built in, and all our insider tips to help make the most of your time in Tulum.

Day 1: Kick things off with a cenote-hopping adventure before exploring Tulum Pueblo in the afternoon. This evening, go on a walking food tour and cap off your evening with drinks, live music, and that laid-back Tulum vibe.

Day 2: Take your pick between a full-day trip to the iconic Chichén Itzá or a closer-to-town combo tour of the Tulum Ruins and snorkeling. Then relax over a hearty dinner and icy drinks back in town.

Day 3: Ease into your final day with boutique browsing and beach club lounging at the Tulum Beach Zone before setting sail on a sunset catamaran cruise. End the night with a nightcap in one of Tulum’s chicest cocktail lounges.

Day 1

Breakfast – DelCielo

Kick off your Tulum adventure with breakfast at DelCielo, one of the most beloved brunch spots in Tulum Pueblo. This cozy café is known for its fresh, locally sourced ingredients and tropical vibes. From their famous fluffy chilaquiles to healthy smoothie bowls and fresh-squeezed juices, there’s something delicious here for everyone. 

Doors open at 8 am, and we recommend arriving early to beat the crowds and enjoy a relaxed start, especially since your morning tour begins at 9 am. But don’t worry, the meeting spot is just a quick 2-minute walk away!

Morning – Swim through secret cenotes on a half-day experience

There’s no better way to dive into Tulum (literally!) than with this 4-hour cenote-hopping adventure through some of the Yucatán’s most magical swimming spots. The tour kicks off at 9 am, just a 2-minute walk from DelCielo, making it a super convenient—and super refreshing—start to your day.

You’ll visit three totally different cenotes, each with its own vibe. First up is Gran Cenote, a stunning turquoise pool perfect for snorkeling. The visibility is incredible, and all the gear is provided (which I really appreciated!).

Next is Casa Cenote, tucked into the jungle and surrounded by mangroves with a soft, sandy bottom. The final stop is Cenote Zemway, a local gem that’s perfect for cliff jumps or a relaxing float in the cool, refreshing water.

What we loved most about this tour was the variety, not just in scenery, but in the experiences at each stop. Plus, since the tour avoids the most touristy cenotes, it felt peaceful and uncrowded.

If you’re short on time but want to experience the best cenotes near Tulum in just half a day, this is the way to do it. You can even add lunch for $15 USD, which totally hit the spot after all that swimming!

Read the hundreds of five-star reviews and secure your spot on this cenote tour here!

Lunch – Taqueria Honorio

After your morning of swimming through cenotes, head just one minute down the road to Taqueria Honorio, a local legend when it comes to tacos. This no-frills, no-reservations spot is beloved for its cochinita pibil, a citrusy, spice-marinated pork that’s slow-roasted until it’s “melt-in-your-mouth” tender.

It’s fast, casual, and absolutely packed with flavor—perfect for refueling after a morning in the water. Come hungry and don’t be surprised if you find yourself dreaming about these tacos long after you’ve left Tulum! Just note that it’s closed on Tuesdays, so plan accordingly.

Afternoon – Wander through Tulum

After lunch, you can head back to your hotel for a siesta or spend the afternoon soaking up the laid-back vibes of Tulum. Lunch will likely wrap up around 2–2:30 pm, so you’ll have a couple of hours to wander at your own pace. The evening food tour meeting point isn’t far away, so there’s no need to rush.

Here are a few ideas to make the most of your afternoon:

Shop for souvenirs at the local boutique stores

Tulum Pueblo is full of small, locally owned shops where you can find everything from embroidered dresses to handmade pottery. We recommend stopping by Oceana Tulum Boutique for boho-style clothing and accessories, or Mixik, which offers a great selection of fair-trade crafts and colorful local artwork. Everything is within walking distance, and there are plenty of shady streets to explore.

Cool off with a treat or coffee break

Need a little refreshment? Stop by Panna e Cioccolato for one of their famous paletas (the coconut and mango are our top picks), or swing by Cara Feliz Tulum for a cold brew or iced latte. Both spots have laid-back patios that are perfect for a little downtime. Prefer a quieter setting? Parque Dos Aguas, just around the corner, offers shady benches and a peaceful place to take a break.

Dinner – Eat your way through Tulum on a food Tour

Cap off your first day in Tulum with one of our favorite activities—a food tour! This 3-hour small-group experience kicks off at 5 pm and includes stops at seven of Tulum’s best local eateries and food stalls.

We absolutely loved exploring the streets of Tulum with our guide, Enrique, a proud local who brought so much insight (and humor!) to the evening. As we wandered through town, he shared fascinating bits of history and culture behind each dish we tried, including tacos al pastor, tamales, rich mole, and even a creamy arroz con leche for dessert.

One of the best parts? We got to try things we’d never think to order on our own, like a smoky salsa that nearly blew our heads off (in the best way). Enrique even taught us how to tell if a tamale is truly fresh by the way it peels from the husk. It felt more like spending the evening with a new friend than being on a tour.

Beyond the delicious food, it was the personal stories and welcoming local vibe that made this tour so special. You won’t just eat like a local—you’ll experience Tulum like one, too. Honestly, we never would’ve found many of these hidden gems without being on the tour!

If you’re a foodie (or just love good food), this is an absolute must-do while in town. Come hungry—you’ll be glad you did!

Secure your spot on this popular food tour here before it books up!

Evening – Wind down with live music

After your food tour wraps up at Parque Dos Aguas, take a short 8-minute stroll over to Batey Mojito and Guarapo Bar, one of our favorite places to end the night in Tulum Pueblo.

Known for drinks made with fresh-pressed sugarcane and tropical fruit, often mixed tableside, this spot blends lively energy with a laid-back vibe. Whether you grab a seat under the twinkling string lights or hang out near the small stage, you’ll be treated to live music from rotating local acts that range from jazz to Latin fusion.

We recommend ordering the passionfruit flavor (you’ll thank us later!) and enjoying this low-key end to your first day in Tulum!

Related Read: Still haven’t booked a place to stay? Hotels here book up fast, so check our Tulum hotel guide to find a great one!

Day 2

Day 2 kicks off with a tough (but exciting!) choice between two incredible tours, each offering a different way to explore the region’s famous Mayan ruins.

If you’re dreaming of the iconic Chichén Itzá, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, Option 1 takes you deep into the Yucatán to see the grand pyramid of El Castillo up close. It’s a longer day with more time on the road, but the experience is truly unforgettable!

Prefer to stay closer to Tulum? Option 2 keeps things easy with a visit to the scenic Tulum Ruins, perched dramatically on seaside cliffs. It’s a shorter outing that’s perfect for families or anyone looking for a more relaxed pace.

No matter which one you choose, you’ll get a dose of ancient history, stunning views, and a unique adventure to remember. Let’s dive into the details of each option to help you decide!

Option 1: Spend the day visiting Chichen Itza, a beautiful cenote & Valladolid

If seeing Chichén Itzá is on your bucket list (and honestly, it should be!), this full-day tour is the way to do it. Running from around 7 am to 5 pm, this all-inclusive, small-group experience blends history, culture, and natural beauty into one unforgettable outing.

Your day starts with convenient pickup from your hotel, followed by a scenic drive inland to explore Chichén Itzá, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. You’ll learn about the fascinating Mayan civilization as you stand in the shadow of El Castillo, the towering pyramid that dominates this ancient site.

Next, cool off with a refreshing swim in a gorgeous cenote—the perfect break from the heat—before wrapping up the day with a visit to Valladolid, a colorful colonial town where you’ll have time to wander the plaza and soak in the local charm.

What really sets this tour apart is the attention to detail. It includes all those sneaky hidden fees that cheaper tours often leave out, so there are no surprise costs. Even better, group sizes are capped at just 10 people, making for a far more relaxed and personal experience than the big 40+ bus tours.

With a friendly guide, seamless logistics, and stellar 5-star reviews, this is a stress-free way to check off one of the world’s most iconic sites!

Check availability for our favorite Chichen Itzá tour here!

Option 2: Full-day Tulum Ruins, reef snorkeling, and cenotes

If you’ve been to Chichén Itzá before, or are after something a bit closer and more relaxed, this top-rated full-day tour is the perfect pick. Running from around 8:30 am to 4 pm, it includes hotel pickup in the Tulum area and combines history, nature, and adventure into one epic day out.

You’ll kick things off with a guided visit to the Tulum Ruins, perched dramatically on limestone cliffs above the Caribbean Sea. This ancient Mayan trading hub is not only historically fascinating but also incredibly photogenic, especially with that backdrop of turquoise water and white-sand beaches. Your guide shares insightful stories that bring the site to life, and then you’ll have time to explore the ruins on your own, which we especially loved.

Next, you’ll head to Playa Maya for an exciting reef snorkeling session in the crystal-clear waters of the Mexican Caribbean. The reef was teeming with marine life—we spotted tons of colorful fish and even a few sea turtles. It was a definite highlight!

Finally, you’ll venture into the jungle for a refreshing swim in a freshwater cenote. We had a blast jumping in, swimming under the leafy canopy, and spotting tropical birds overhead. It was the perfect way to wrap up the day.

This tour offers an unforgettable adventure without ever leaving Tulum. With over 3,600 five-star reviews, it’s easy to see why travelers love it—every stop is unique, well-paced, and completely stress-free from start to finish.

Check pricing and availability for your travel dates here!

Dinner/Evening – El Asadero

After some well-earned downtime at your hotel, it’s time to dig into a hearty dinner, and El Asadero is just the place. This no-frills, open-air steakhouse is a favorite among both locals and travelers, known for its perfectly grilled meats, creamy guacamole, and icy margaritas that hit the spot after a long day in the sun.

The laid-back courtyard setting and friendly service make it the ideal spot to unwind and reflect on the day’s adventures. We recommend making a reservation for around 8 pm, which gives you plenty of time to freshen up and relax after whichever tour you chose earlier in the day.

Whether you’re craving a sizzling arrachera steak or just a strong margarita and some snacks, El Asadero delivers a satisfying and low-key end to your second day in Tulum.

Related Read: Curious which cenote tour is right for you? Check out our guide to the 5 best cenote tours in Tulum here for the top picks—whether you’re after caves, jungle vibes, or a quick swim.

Day 3

Breakfast – Ki’bok Coffee Tulum

Tucked into a quiet corner of downtown, Ki’bok Coffee Tulum is a local favorite—and it’s easy to see why. The courtyard is breezy and shaded, the espresso is strong and delicious, and the staff are always warm and welcoming.

If you’re heading to the Tulum Ruins today, we recommend arriving right when they open at 7 am to give yourself a head start. Otherwise, feel free to take it slow and ease into your morning here.

From savory huevos rancheros and flaky croissant sandwiches to fresh juices and house-made pastries, it’s the perfect way to fuel up for your final day in Tulum!

Morning – Option 1: Self-guided morning at the Tulum ruins

If you didn’t visit the Tulum Ruins on Day 2, this is the perfect opportunity to explore them at your own pace. The site opens at 8 am, and we recommend arriving by 8:30 am to beat the crowds and the midday heat. Trust us—there’s nothing like wandering through ancient stone temples with the sound of crashing waves in the background and panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea.

You can buy your entry ticket at the gate for around 100 MXN (about $5 USD) per person. No guide is required, and most visits last 1.5 to 2 hours. Make sure to bring plenty of water, wear good walking shoes (the terrain is uneven in spots), and don’t forget sun protection. There’s not a lot of shade on site.

Getting there is easy: it’s about a 10–15 minute taxi ride from town, or you can even bike there if you’re staying in Aldea Zama or central Tulum. Once you’ve had your fill of cliffside ruins, you can unwind by heading down to the Beach Zone next for some well-earned relaxation!

Morning – Option 2: Tulum Beach Zone and boutique browsing

If you already explored the Tulum Ruins on Day 2, keep this morning chill and low-key with a wander through the stylish Tulum Beach Zone. Take a taxi or bike down to the main beach road and kick things off with a smoothie or green juice from Matcha Mama, a local fave for healthy, refreshing sips.

From there, stroll the sandy roadside path and pop into some of the area’s trendiest shops—UMA NOMAD and WeLove are just a few of the chic boutiques worth browsing. You’ll also pass boho beach clubs like Ziggy’s, which is a good spot for a quick bite to eat or beverage with an ocean view.

This slow-paced morning is a great way to soak in the beachy Tulum vibe before it gets too hot out. Plus, you’ll still have plenty of time to get back and gear up for your afternoon adventure!

Lunch – Mr. Shmokey

We highly recommend sticking around the Tulum Beach Zone for lunchtime. This area is full of fun and tasty lunch options, including our favorite, Mr. Shmokey. This casual spot is known for its next-level hot dogs, stacked sandwiches, and juicy burgers that totally hit the spot after a morning of beachside wandering.

It’s laid-back, quick, and perfect for refueling before your afternoon. Whether you’re craving something smoky, spicy, or slathered in sauce, this place has got you covered!

Afternoon – More beach time!

Spend your final afternoon in Tulum soaking up the sun at one of the beach zone’s more relaxed, scenic spots. Ziggy’s and Akiin Beach Tulum are two of our favorite beach clubs for a laid-back vibe without the party scene—think swaying palms, swimmable turquoise waters, and great food and drink service right to your lounger.

Grab a comfy daybed, order a drink (or two), and settle in with a book or just enjoy the view. With chill music in the background and your toes in the sand, this is the perfect way to wind down your trip before tonight’s sunset cruise.

We recommend heading back to your hotel around 3 pm to give yourself time to freshen up before the evening event (more on that below!).

Dinner/Early evening – Toast to your trip on a sunset catamaran cruise

Wrap up your Tulum adventure in unforgettable fashion with this luxury sunset catamaran cruise along the Riviera Maya. This experience includes round-trip transport, an open bar, and light dinner-style snacks as you sail into golden hour on the Caribbean Sea.

Pickup is included from a list of Tulum hotels, and if yours isn’t on the list, don’t worry—you’ll just need to meet at a designated hotel pickup point (often only a short taxi ride away). We recommend being ready by 4:30 pm, depending on your location.

We loved how easy everything was—no crowds, no chaos, just a smooth check-in and friendly crew welcoming us with drinks the moment we stepped aboard. Everyone found a comfy spot to lounge (there’s plenty of space), and we quickly fell into relaxation mode.

Once on board, you can sit back, soak in the sea breeze, and watch the sky light up in fiery hues as the sun sets over the water. It’s peaceful, scenic, and the perfect way to toast to an epic three days in Tulum. After, you’ll return to your hotel around 8 pm, with just enough time for a nightcap!

Reserve your spot on this sunset cruise here and get FREE 24-hour cancellation!

Evening – Wind down at Obsidiana Tulum

If you’re not quite ready to call it a night after your sunset cruise, head to Obsidiana Tulum for some killer drinks and a live DJ. With its warm lighting, natural stone walls, and sultry atmosphere, this spot feels like Tulum’s elegant, grown-up answer to nightlife.

Grab a seat at the bar or tuck into one of the cozy corners and order a signature beverage or something creative off their seasonal menu. It’s intimate, stylish, and just the right pace to reflect on the past few days of adventure.

Whether you’re toasting to new memories or just soaking in the last few vacation vibes, Obsidiana is a beautiful way to close out your three days in Tulum!

Related Read: Looking for even more ways to enjoy Tulum? Check out our guide to the 10 best things to do in Tulum here for can’t-miss experiences, hidden gems, and local favorites that go beyond this 3-day itinerary.

Where to Stay in Tulum

No matter what you’re looking for in a hotel, Tulum has it! Offering everything from hostels to 5-star luxury hotels, there is accommodation for any budget. So to help you narrow it down and pick the best one, I’ve listed my favorite options below:

Luxury – $$$

If you’re dreaming of a luxury all-inclusive getaway in Tulum, Dreams Tulum Resort & Spa is a top choice. This beachfront property has it all—multiple restaurants and bars, a full-service spa, two pools, and even a kids’ club. The location is a bit more secluded (perfect if you’re looking to truly unwind), but it’s still just a short drive to the Tulum ruins and cenotes.

Rooms start around $400 USD, which is a pretty good deal considering it includes all meals, drinks, and activities. You can check availability and book your stay here!

IKAL Tulum Hotel is a 5-star luxury stay that feels more boutique than big resort. This eco-luxury beachfront property blends minimalist design with lush jungle surroundings, offering gorgeous thatched-roof villas just steps from the sea. There’s an on-site restaurant and beach club, but without the all-inclusive format, you’ll have the freedom to explore Tulum’s incredible dining scene.

Rooms start around only $230 USD per night and can be reserved in advance here.

Mid-Range – $$

Naala Tulum is a stylish and affordable boutique hotel just outside the hustle of downtown. It features a large outdoor pool, clean and modern rooms with comfy beds, and an on-site restaurant and bar for easy meals and drinks. While it’s not beachfront, it’s just a quick drive or bike ride to the beach and nearby cenotes, making it a great base for exploring all that Tulum has to offer without breaking the bank.

Check prices and book this stay here on Booking.com!

Budget – $

Oryx Hostel – Just a few steps from downtown Tulum, gardens surround the property so you’ll feel like you’re staying in a tropical jungle. There are hammocks, a nice outdoor pool area, and tons of fun activities like salsa dancing! Plus, breakfast is included every morning, so you can easily fuel up for the day ahead.

Stays here are as cheap as $20 USD a night in a dorm room or around $70 USD for private rooms, and can be booked on here on Booking.com.

Check out all of the accommodations available in Tulum here!

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!

Tulum has so much to offer, but we hope this three-day itinerary makes planning easier. It’s packed with our favorite cenotes, ruins, food tours, and beach clubs—all the highlights we’ve come to love over the years. Whether it’s your first time visiting or a return trip, these handpicked experiences will help you get the most out of your stay without feeling rushed.

Still planning your trip around Mexico? Be sure to check out some of our other Mexico travel guides here for more ideas. Or we’ve included a few of our most popular posts below to help you keep the adventure going. ¡Buen viaje!

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