Cancun - overhead view of two people paddling in a canoe

Getting around Cancun: how to get around Cancun for tourists

Your go-to guide packed with information for getting around Cancun and beyond, including getting to and from the airport.
By Nicole Muto

Traveling to Cancun for the vacation of a lifetime? Whether you're a first-time tourist or a frequent visitor to the Mexican paradise, this guide will provide you with great tips and tricks for navigating.

Cancun is relatively easy to navigate and get around, as many of the best attractions and sightseeing spots are located in the Hotel Zone. The Hotel Zone is the main tourist area of Cancun and is very walkable. Aside from that, there are tons of taxis available and great public transport options, like the bus.

Driving or renting a car in Cancun is typically only suggested for visitors who plan to explore areas outside of the heart of Cancun frequently during their trip. 

Planning to see lots of Cancun attractions? With Go City® you won't miss a thing, plus with a pass, you can save up to 50% compared to buying individual entry to everything you want to do - winning!

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By public transport

 

Cancun public transport sign

Most travelers in Cancun agree that the bus is the best way to get around. With routes that can connect you between the Hotel Zone, Boulevard Kukulcán (downtown), and Avenida Tulum, you can get to just about everything on your bucket list by bus.

The buses run every five minutes, with the most popular routes being R1 and R2. Either of these routes will take you back and forth between downtown and the Hotel Zone. A one-way fare typically costs 10.50 Pesos which is roughly 50 cents in USD. The buses do not accept American coins and it is often hard for drivers to break big bills, so make sure to carry Pesos on you if you plan to ride the bus.

Top tips for getting around by bus

🚍Keep your bus tickets - you can use them to redeem discounts at local stores

🚍Let your driver know your destination. They will be happy to let you know when the bus has arrived at your stop

🚍Buses running along the ocean side of the road head north toward downtown

🚍Buses running along the lagoon side of the road head south toward the Hotel Zone

There are also regional buses that run between Cancun and other popular tourist towns. These buses are operated by ADO and are typically a bit more expensive than the local bus service. You can book tickets for buses that will take you between Cancun, Tulum, Playa Del Carmen, and Chichén Itzá. 

If you plan to visit any of these locations, remember that many of the attractions on Go City Cancun passes include round-trip transportation - handy!

👉 RutaDirecta is a great site for mapping out your local bus route

👉 For more information about regional buses, check ADO's website

On foot

Cancun street and walking street sign

Once you've made it to popular spots like the Hotel Zone or Boulevard Kukulcán, it's very easy to explore on foot. The Hotel Zone is home to many attractions, restaurants, shops and hotels. Nearly all hotels and residences are walkable to a beach.

Walking up and down the strip you'll find Señor Frog's, Carlos'n Charlie's, Cancun Wax Museum, and many different boat tours and snorkel excursions that leave from the marinas. While Cancun itself is rather spread out, you'll find that it's very easy to walk around once you've arrived at the most popular areas.

By taxi

Taxi in Cancun

You'll never need to worry about finding a taxi in Cancun, they're just about everywhere! There are no metered taxi rates in Cancun, so be sure to discuss your fare before setting off. Depending on how far you're going and where you're being picked up from, your ride can cost anywhere between $10-$25 USD. Your fares may be lower if you can pay in Pesos and drivers do not always have change for American bills.

If you're planning to take a taxi from the airport, expect to pay somewhere around $40-50 USD. You can purchase a taxi ride at one of the information desks within the airport or negotiate with drivers waiting at the pickup gates. It's important to check for your cab driver's permit, which they are required to display in a prominent place. Always cross-reference license plate information as well. Uber is also available in Cancun but is not a popular mode of transportation. It's much easier to find a taxi in the area.

Renting cars and parking

Car in Cancun

Since the taxis are plentiful and the buses provide an easy way to connect you between downtown and the Hotel Zone, renting a car is only suggested if you plan to travel further distances. If you choose to rent a car, make sure to thoroughly inspect the vehicle and insurance/rental agreement before operating it. Renting a car in a foreign country can be a bit more complicated than expected. There is also limited parking in popular tourist areas like the Hotel Zone.

In the past, visitors in Cancun who have rented cars have noted that local police tend to pull over tourists, so always make sure you are abiding by all traffic laws. It is important to know possible moving violation ticket prices beforehand so you don't get overcharged.

The best way to get to further destinations, like Playa Del Carmen or Tulum, is to arrange a bus ride with ADO or take advantage of the many Go City attractions that offer included transportation.

By ferry

Ferry in Cancun

If you plan to visit Isla Mujeres (which you should!), then you should definitely be familiar with the ferry system in Cancun. Isla Mujeres is a picturesque little island located 15 minutes off the coast of Cancun. Ferries run all day between the island from three different docks in Cancun. El Embarcadero, Playa Tortugas, and Playa Caracol are all located in the Hotel Zone.

Ferry timings and prices

  • Service is generally provided from 9 AM to 9 PM at each departure point
  • Ferries run every 30 minutes
  • Ferry fares typically cost $19 USD for adults and $14 USD for kids for a round-trip ride.

Another way to get to Isla Mujeres is with a pass from Go City, which offers several attractions in Isla Mujeres that include round-trip ferry transportation.

By plane

Plane in Cancun

Cancun International Airport is located approximately 25 minutes outside of the Hotel Zone. You'll have the option to pre-book a shuttle directly to your hotel, or you can grab a taxi upon arrival.

Getting a taxi from the airport

To get a taxi, simply follow signs to ground transportation. Remember that local traffic can add a significant amount of time to your trip, so plan accordingly.

Getting a bus from the airport

You can also arrange a bus ride with ADO to the bus terminal in downtown Cancun. From there, you can hop on a local bus route and get to your hotel easily.

If you're traveling with a lot of luggage, it's much easier to book a shuttle or taxi. It's hassle-free and very affordable.

Explore Cancun with our passes

Check out passes from Go City and you could save yourself up to 50% on your must-sees!

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Things to do in Cancun on 4th of July Weekend
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Things to do in Cancun on 4th of July Weekend

Planning on spending the 4th of July weekend in Cancun? Good choice! Below, we'll detail all the best things to do on your mini-vacation. Whether you're looking to bar hop, go adventuring, or simply relax, we've got you covered. Including: 4th of July Fireworks Bars and Clubs Adventures Water parks and more! Fireworks Extravaganza at Laguna Beach It wouldn't be the 4th of July without fireworks, would it? So, if you're looking for things to do over on the big weekend, head to Laguna Beach for the ultimate spectacle of gunpowder and minerals! Proceedings kick off at 9PM, and beyond the fireworks themselves, you'll find plenty of food and drinks trucks to keep you topped up. And, well, you're on the beach, so no harm in getting there early and making the most of it! Cancun Nightlife Cancun's bar and club scene is unprecedented, offering revelers a metric ton of places to sip refreshing cocktails, chug a beer, or groove the night away on the dancefloor. And, during the 4th of July weekend, it's no different. In fact, you'll find plenty of spots that offer drinks deals during the weekend, as well as sets from renowned DJs. So, our best advice is to shop around and see what suits your fancy. Coco Bongo Beach Party Speaking of Cancun's nightlife, we'd be remiss to not mention the famous Congo Bongo. This is one beach party that'll be popping off during the 4th of July weekend, so if you're looking for boozy things to do, why not celebrate there? With Go City, all your drinks are included. All you need is to turn up, take a seat, and watch the show. Oh, did we forget to mention that your Congo Bongo beach experience features DJs, musicians, death-defying aerial acrobats, and other adrenaline-fueled performances? Our bad. Water Sports and Snorkeling Adventure Why not make your 4th of July break in Cancun an adventurous one? If you're a fan of hidden treasure, colorful marine life that won't bite your head off, and stunning displays of bioluminescent light, why not try a snorkeling adventure beneath the waves? Your guide will be on hand to...guide you to each part of the reef, where you'll see magical parts of nature come to life. Oh, and the shipwreck, which has lay on the ocean bed for hundreds of years. Cultural Excursion to Chichen Itza If you like your adventures to be above the water rather than below, why not explore the ruins of an ancient Mayan city? Head to Chichen Itza and take a trip back through the very fabric of time. There, marvel at the impressive pyramids, learn about Mayan history, and witness the architectural wonders of this magnificent archaeological site. Be sure to take some photos too - the Mayans won't mind. Romantic Dinner Cruise Taking your husband, wife, or partner to celebrate the weekend? If you're looking for romantic things to do in Cancun on the 4th of July, why not whisk them away on a Romantic Dinner Cruise? Multiple courses featuring veggie and meat options, decadent drinks, and grand views all await you. And if you're lucky, you'll spot some of the city's fireworks from your table. The rest of the romantic gestures we leave up to you. Ventura Park If the heat's getting to you and you need to cool off, splash your way to Ventura Park. With tons of waterslides, pools, and other watery goodness to soothe your sunburnt back, it's one of the best things to do in Cancun on the 4th of July weekend with kids. And hey, the children are our future, so why not make their present a fun one? Isla Mujeres If you'd rather relax during your mini vacation, head to Isla Mujeres. Just a short boat ride from the Cancun mainland, this tropical paradise is as tranquil as islands come. Picture yourself lounging on pristine beaches, snorkeling in turquoise waters, and exploring charming streets. You can practically taste it, can't you? That taste is bliss. Utter bliss. And by god, does it taste glorious. Visit Tulum Another day, another spectacular Mayan ruin. This time it's in Tulum, an archeological wonder that overlooks the Caribbean Sea. Don your best adventurous fedora, holster your whip, and prepare to wander through ancient structures, relax on the picturesque beach, and soak in the awe-inspiring beauty of this archaeological site. Beach BBQ and Picnic Of course, if you'd rather create your own experience this 4th of July, then Cancun's got plenty of space for it. Heading to one of the city's beaches and cooking up a storm is one of the best things to do on your vacation if you're traveling with a group. Pack your favorite snacks, grill some delicious food, and relax under some palm trees. The most daring of you can even put on your swimmers and take a dip in the crystal clear waters. So brave. Yacht Party on the Caribbean Sea Do you ever feel the need to rub shoulders with wealth? Ever wondered what it's like to own a yacht and party the night away as you drift over the Caribbean Sea? Well, you needn't wonder any longer. All aboard! Sip a cocktail or two, dance the evening away, and make sure to grab some pics of the wonderful view. Image courtesy of marketa1982/Shutterstock Xoximilco Cancun And finally, we'll end our exploration of the best things to do in Cancun on the 4th of July weekend with an actual, bonafide floating bar. But it's not just your average floating bar - oh no. Instead, this galleon of gallons is an homage to Mexican culture. You'll drift along the Xoximilco canals, feast on Mexican dishes, drown your sorrows in delicious booze, and bob your head to live Mexican music. And the whole thing is curated by your very own host, who'll do their darndest to break the ice, make you laugh, and force you to have fun - just like any good host should! And that's all the best things to do in Cancun on the 4th of July weekend! If you're planning on staying a little longer than the holiday, you might need some inspiration for your extended vacation. If so, Go City's got you covered. With our All-Inclusive Pass and Explorer Pass, you can see all of Cancun's best bits for one low price!
Dom Bewley
What to do on Memorial Day Weekend in Cancun
Blog

What to do on Memorial Day Weekend in Cancun

While Memorial Day in America is typically a time to reflect and honor service people who have given their lives for our freedom, many people also use the holiday as a chance to get away and enjoy themselves. And, given Mexico's neighborly nature, many choose to head to Cancun. If you're considering the same, but wonder what to do there on Memorial Day weekend, we can help. In this guide, we'll take a look at all the best experiences to try over the holiday. So take a look, and see what suits you! Including: Ancient sites Sailing adventures Snorkeling tours Theme parks and more! Visit Chichén Itzá & Valladolid If you fancy something cultural, look no further than a roundtrip tour of Mexico's magnificent Mayan marvel, Chichén Itzá. This tour picks you up from your hotel and takes you to the site, where you'll have two and a half hours to wander around the temples and structures, learn about their history, and take plenty of photos while you wander. Once you've seen enough of the famous pyramid, you'll be whisked away to Valladolid, where you'll have an hour and a half to freely explore baroque-style cathedrals, Spanish colonial architecture, and myriad pastel-colored buildings. If you want to balance out your weekend of partying with some culture and history, and want to know what else to do on Memorial Day in Cancun, this tour could be just the ticket. Enjoy a Parasail Adventure If it's thrills and spills you're after, look no further than this exhilarating parasailing experience! You won't get many better views of Cancun, either. Your parasailing adventure will take you above 3 miles of the Cancun coastline, giving you ample opportunity to see the beautiful beaches beneath your feet. And don't worry, your roughly 10-minute glide through the sky will be entirely safe; state-of-the-art equipment is used to keep you firmly fixed to the vessel below. You'll even have a walkie-talkie should you need to contact the crew. They'll rein in the rope if you're too high up for comfort. It's a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see the stunning coastline from a whole new perspective. And hey, feeling like you're flying's pretty cool too. Experience a Reef, Turtle, and Shipwreck Snorkeling Tour Have you ever wanted to explore a shipwreck on the sea floor, swim alongside sea life, and witness true underwater beauty? If so, this snorkeling tour is just for you. Just a short boat ride off the coast of Cancun, you'll drop anchor and have two hours to explore the wonders of the deep at five different stops. The first, El Meco, is part of the Great Mayan Reef. You won't get many better looks at coral up close on the planet. The second stop is an area where sea turtles love to hang out. With a near-100% chance of seeing them up close, it's one of the tour's highlights. The third is a unique underwater museum called MUSA, and it's exactly as it sounds. Underwater exhibits, art, and more are ripe for viewing. The fourth stop is the aforementioned shipwreck - arguably the tour's highlight. The fifth and final stop takes you back to the surface, where you'll gaze upon awe-inspiring cenotes. Whether you're a newb or a seasoned pro, if you're game for a tropical paddle, you needn't wonder what to do on Memorial Day weekend in Cancun. You know what to do - it's this. Live it up at Ventura Park If you prefer thrills of the white-knuckle sort, a trip to Ventura Park should be top of your Memorial Day itinerary. Adrenaline junkies should check out Aaahventura, a zip line that soars above the treetops. It's not for the faint of heart, but the views from on high will reward those daring enough to try! You'll also love the park's go-karts, rollercoasters, bungee swings, and water slides. Those of you who prefer the stress-free life, we feel you. And don't worry; you're catered to too! The Lazy River is the perfect way to kick back and enjoy the ride, letting you enjoy the gorgeous scenery at a slower pace. You've also got mini-golf, VR, and dolphin swimming - if you're an animal lover. Perfect for the whole family if the sun is out in full force, Ventura Park is one of the best attractions in Cancun! Party on at the Cancun Jumpoff Don't worry, party people; we haven't forgotten about you either. Plenty of people head to Cancun to live it up over the Memorial Day weekend. If you're one of them, you won't be better served than at the Cancun Jumpoff. It's a four-day extravaganza filled with beach parties, pool parties, and non-stop fun. DJs spin the latest dance hits, and there are contests and other activities to keep the energy up. If you want to meet new, like-minded people, you'll find thousands of them there. Whether you're traveling down with friends, going with your partner, or doing it solo, you won't find many better parties over the Memorial Day weekend than at Cancun Jumpoff. Just don't bring the kids - this one ain't for them. Max your cards on a shopping tour But maybe you're not in it for the party. Maybe you'd rather hit the shops and spend big during the holiday sales. Don't worry; we've got you covered too. This shopping tour covers the two best spots in Cancun - more on them in a bit. Let's start at the beginning, where you'll be whisked away on a luxury air-conditioned bus, where your expert tour guide will provide you with a background of the sun-soaked city, its history, and how the locals live. Which will come in handy when you visit your first destination - Mercado 28. It's a flea-market-style shopping area with booths and restaurants owned and operated by locals, making it the perfect place to find hand-crafted purses, accessories, jewelry, or other souvenirs for friends back home. You'll also dine in style at one of the many authentic restaurants in the area. The next stop is Plaza Las Americas, where you'll find big-name brands sold at low, low prices. This one isn't for your friends and family back home; it's your turn to treat yourself. So, if you were wondering what to do on Memorial Day weekend in Cancun, we hope this guide has given you some ideas! If you need more inspiration for your Cancun break, check out Go City. With our All-Inclusive Pass and Explorer Pass, you can see all of Cancun's hottest attractions for one low price!
Dom Bewley

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