Cancun Mexico 7 Day Itinerary

7-Day Itinerary for Cancun, Mexico

Day 1: Arrival & Exploring Downtown Cancun

Accommodation

  • Stay at Gran Porto Real Cancun, a 4-star hotel located in the heart of the city with easy access to shopping and dining.

Activities

  • Spend the day exploring downtown Cancun, visit Plaza Las Americas for some shopping and Parque de las Palapas for local food and cultural performances.

Food & Drink

  • Try local dishes like Cochinita Pibil, Tacos al Pastor, and fresh seafood at El Fish Fritanga.

Day 2: Isla Mujeres

Transportation

  • Take a ferry from Gran Puerto Cancun to Isla Mujeres.

Activities

  • Visit the Isla Mujeres Turtle Farm, swim at Playa Norte, and explore the island’s beautiful beaches and narrow streets.

Food & Drink

  • Have lunch at Jovanes Restaurant and try their famous fish tacos.

Day 3: Exploring Zona Hotelera

Activities

  • Spend the day enjoying the white sandy beaches of Zona Hotelera, visit Xcaret Park for eco-archaeological activities, or take a snorkeling trip to see the underwater world.

Day 4: Tulum & Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve

Transportation

  • Rent a car and drive to Tulum (about 1.5 hours from Cancun).

Activities

  • Visit the ancient Mayan ruins of Tulum, then head to the Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve for a guided tour to see unique flora and fauna.

Day 5: Chichen Itza & Valladolid

Transportation

  • Continue your road trip to Chichen Itza (about 1.5 hours from Tulum). After visiting the ruins, head to Valladolid.

Activities

  • Explore the colonial town of Valladolid, visit the Convent of San Bernardino de Siena and enjoy a traditional Yucatecan meal at Los Hijos del Cardenal.

Day 6: Cenotes & Playa del Carmen

Transportation

  • Drive back to Playa del Carmen (about 1.5 hours from Valladolid).

Activities

  • Visit the famous Cenote Chaak Tun, then spend the afternoon exploring the vibrant town of Playa del Carmen and its beautiful beaches.

Day 7: Relax & Departure

Activities

  • Spend your last day relaxing at the hotel or beach, maybe try some spa services.

Food & Drink

  • Have a farewell dinner at Catch Restaurant, known for its seafood and stunning ocean views.

Things to Know

  • Mexican Pesos are the local currency.
  • The Yucatan Peninsula is home to many cenotes, natural sinkholes filled with fresh water.
  • Haggling is common in markets, but prices are usually negotiable everywhere else.
  • Taxis and ride-sharing apps like Uber are widely available.
  • Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and at night.

Tips

  • Pack a lightweight rain jacket, as afternoon rains are common.
  • Wear reef-safe sunscreen to protect both you and the marine life.
  • Try local fruits like mangoes, papayas, and coconuts.
  • Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to make interactions with locals easier.