Cancún

Mexico, North America

Cancún is a vibrant city known for its stunning white-sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and lively nightlife. Famous for its luxurious resorts, it serves as a gateway to ancient Mayan ruins such as Tulum and Chichén Itzá. The area also offers thrilling water sports, vibrant markets, and a rich cultural experience, making it a top choice for young travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure.

Quick facts

Target stay

5-7 days

Type

City

Vibe

Party

Airport

Cancun

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

10 Best Things to Do in Cancún

1

Est. 8 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Chichen Itza

Explore ancient Mayan ruins and iconic pyramids.

Booking required
2

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Swim in Cenotes

Dive into stunning natural sinkholes filled with fresh water.

No booking required
3

Est. 5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore Isla Mujeres

Take a ferry to this beautiful Caribbean island.

No booking required
4

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Relax on Playa Delfines

Enjoy sunbathing at this stunning beach with clear water.

No booking required
5

Est. 2.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Tulum Ruins

Wander through Mayan ruins overlooking the Caribbean Sea.

No booking required
6

Est. 4 hrs

Year round

Adults only

Party at Coco Bongo

Experience an unforgettable nightlife show and party.

Booking required
7

Est. 8 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Xcaret Park

Enjoy eco-archaeological park with cultural performances.

Booking required
8

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Take a Jungle Tour

Explore the lagoon on a speedboat and snorkel.

Booking required
9

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Cancun Underwater Museum

Snorkel among submerged sculptures in the ocean.

No booking required
10

Est. 6 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Go to Xel-Ha Park

Experience a natural aquatic theme park with snorkeling.

Booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~15%)

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Low

LGBTQ+ safety score

4 (#41 globally)

Cost

Cheap

Currency

Mexican Peso

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Spanish

(<20% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Mole

VE

Rich sauce made with chiles and spices (National dish)

Tacos al Pastor

Tortillas filled with marinated pork

Chiles en Nogada

Stuffed peppers with meat and walnut sauce

Pozole

Hearty soup with hominy and meat

Tamales

V

Corn dough filled with various ingredients

Phrases to learn

English

Spanish

Hello

Hola

(Oh-lah)

Yes/No

Si / No

(See / No)

Thank you

Gracias

(Grah-thee-ahs)

Excuse me

Perdón

(Per-dohn)

How much?

¿Cuánto?

(Kwan-toh)