Cancun, Mexico 3 Day Itinerary

Title: 3-Day Cancun Itinerary - A Tropical Mexican Adventure

Day 1: Explore the Heart of Cancun

Morning: Arrival & Hotel Check-in

  • Arrive at Cancun International Airport (CUN), pick up your luggage and head to your hotel.
  • Recommended Hotels: Ritz-Carlton Cancun, JW Marriott Cancun Resort & Spa, or Moon Palace Cancun (all offer luxury accommodations and are located in the Hotel Zone).

Afternoon: Visit Downtown Cancun

  • Take a taxi or rent a car to visit Downtown Cancun.
  • Explore the Plaza Las Americas, the city’s largest shopping mall with various stores and eateries.
  • Visit the Museo Maya de Cancun to learn about the region’s rich Mayan history.

Evening: Dinner & Nightlife

  • Have dinner at El Fish Fritanga, a local seafood restaurant known for its fresh catches.
  • Experience Cancun’s vibrant nightlife in the Party Center or La Isla Shopping Village.

Day 2: Discover Ancient Ruins & Beautiful Beaches

Morning: Chichen Itza Tour

  • Book a tour to visit the famous Chichen Itza, an ancient Mayan city and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
  • Explore the pyramid of Kukulcan, the Temple of Warriors, and other architectural wonders.

Afternoon: Swim in Cenotes & Relax on a Beach

  • Return to Cancun and visit a nearby cenote (a natural sinkhole filled with groundwater). Ik Kil is a popular choice.
  • Spend the rest of your afternoon relaxing on one of Cancun’s beautiful beaches such as Playas Tortugas, Playa Delfines, or Playacar.

Evening: Seafood Dinner & Sunset

  • Enjoy a seafood dinner at Papaya Playa Project or Los Almendros Playa Gordo, both offering fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.
  • Watch the sunset over the Caribbean Sea – it’s a sight you won’t forget!

Day 3: Island Hopping & Underwater Adventures

Morning: Isla Mujeres

  • Take a ferry to Isla Mujeres, a charming island just off the coast of Cancun.
  • Visit the Turtle Sanctuary and swim with dolphins at Garrafon Natural Reef Park.
  • Explore the island’s narrow streets, colorful houses, and beautiful beaches.

Afternoon: Snorkeling & Underwater Museum

  • Head back to Cancun and spend your afternoon snorkeling at Musa, an underwater museum featuring sculptures by Jason deCaires Taylor.
  • Alternatively, take a trip to the Nizuc Reef for some fantastic snorkeling or scuba diving experiences.

Evening: Farewell Dinner & Cultural Show

  • Have a farewell dinner at Avenida Tulum, a pedestrian street filled with local eateries and live music.
  • End your trip with a traditional Mayan cultural show at Cocodrilo Ristorante or Temazcales.

Things to Know

  1. Mexican pesos are the official currency, but many places also accept US dollars.
  2. Cancun’s rainy season is from May to October; pack accordingly.
  3. Taxis and rentals cars are common forms of transportation in Cancun.
  4. Haggle at local markets for the best deals on souvenirs and handicrafts.
  5. Always practice safe sun habits, as the tropical sun can be intense.
  6. Tip: Bring reusable water bottles to reduce plastic waste, and use refill stations throughout Cancun.

Enjoy your unforgettable 3-day adventure in Cancun, Mexico! #CancunTravel #MexicoVacation