How to spend 4 days in Cancun: The best itinerary + Where to stay

You want to visit Cancun in 4 days and you’re looking for the best things to do?

You’re at the right place!

In order to help you plan your stay, I have prepared for you this 4-day itinerary in Cancun. It’s perfectly optimized to allow you to discover the must-see attractions of the city.

In this guide, I will detail the day-to-day program, with all the best things to do and activities for each stage of your itinerary and I will also give you all my best tips and accommodation suggestions depending on your budget.

So, what are the best places to visit in Cancun in 4 days? Where to stay?

Day 1: Snorkeling, Beaches, and Nightlife

A. Snorkel in the Cancun Underwater Museum

Start your first day in Cancun with a visit to the Cancun Underwater Museum (MUSA) a unique museum features over 500 sculptures submerged in the ocean.

These sculptures were created by local artists to promote coral reef conservation and create an artificial habitat for marine life!

The MUSA, divided into two galleries—Salon Manchones (26 ft depth) and Salon Nizuc (13 ft)—where you can snorkel (book it here) or scuba dive (book scuba diving here) based on your experience and preference to explore this unique underwater attraction.

B. Relax and Have Fun at Cancun’s Best Beaches

After snorkeling, head to some of the best beaches in Cancun.

If you are looking for a more laid-back vibe, I suggest visiting Playa Delfines. It’s one of the largest and most popular beaches in Cancun, where you can also see the colorful Cancun sign and take a picture with it.

For a family-friendly beach with calm water, Playa Tortugas is a great option.

If you prefer a lively beach with many bars and restaurants nearby, check out Playa Chac Mool. Here, you can rent a sunbed or an umbrella, and if you want to try some surfing, it’s perfect for renting a surfboard or bodyboard.

Of course, there are many other great beaches in Cancun, like Playa Langosta, Playa Marlin, Playa Linda, and more—just explore and see which one you like best.

C. Evening Drinks at La Isla Shopping Village

In the evening, head over to La Isla Shopping Village for some drinks. Trust me, you’ll be glad to escape the beach and enjoy some air conditioning during the hottest part of the day!

La Isla Shopping Village has over 150 stores, restaurants, and entertainment options like the Ripley’s Museum, the Sky Wheel, The Wax Museum, Kid’s Paradise, Chocolate Factory, Tequila Museum, and the Mirror Maze.

D. Party at Cancun’s Hotel Zone Nightclubs

For your first evening, you have several exciting options.

A fantastic choice is the Xoximilco Cancun, where you can enjoy Mexican music, food, and drinks on colorful boats.

If clubbing is more your style, you can also check out The City or Mandala, both excellent choices for a night of dancing and fun.

But if you are ready to party, head to Coco Bongo, the legendary nightclub in Cancun’s Hotel Zone. This unique venue offers a mix of live performances, DJs, stunning acrobatics, and pop-culture acts like “The Mask,” “Moulin Rouge”, “Queen” and more, all while you dance and enjoy your drinks.

Day 2: Cultural Excursions and Evening Entertainment

A. Morning Tour to Chichen Itza and Ik Kil Cenote

When spending 4 days in Cancun, make sure to visit Chichen Itza, one of the New 7 Wonders of the World and a UNESCO World Heritage Site!

The most iconic structure at Chichen Itza is El Castillo, also known as the Temple of Kukulcan. As you explore the site, you’ll also come across other remarkable structures like the Great Ball Court, the Temple of the Warriors, and the El Caracol observatory.

• For everything you need to know, be sure to check out my comprehensive guide to Chichen Itza!

After exploring the archaeological site, cool off with a swim in the Ik Kil Cenote, one of the most beautiful cenotes in the Yucatan Peninsula, located just 2.5 miles from Chichen Itza!

When you arrive, you’ll see a stunning blue cenote 82 feet underground, surrounded by plant-covered walls and long vines.

It offers a variety of services including a gift shop, lockers, changing rooms, and a large parking lot. You can reach the cenote via a stone path and either jump into the water from a small platform or use the stairs.

It’s accessible to the whole family, with ropes in the water to help you float.

To get from Cancun to Chichen Itza, you have several options:

• You can rent a car and drive to Chichen Itza, which takes around 2.5 hours, with parking costing 80 pesos.
• Alternatively, you can take a public bus from Cancun’s ADO Bus Terminal, though note there is only one bus per day (departing at 8:00 AM and returning at 4:30 PM).
• The most convenient way to visit Chichen Itza is by joining a guided tour, which includes round-trip transportation from your hotel, a knowledgeable guide, free time and buffet lunch at Cenote Ik Kil and a stop in the colonial town of Valladolid.

Book the Chichen Itza tour here:

B. Evening Entertainment: Pirate Ship or Cirque du Soleil Show

In the evening, you’ve got two fantastic options for entertainment that I think you’ll love.

The 1st option is to embark on a pirate ship adventure aboard the Jolly Roger. This ship is a replica of Christopher Columbus’ Santa Maria, which was used on his first expedition to the Americas in 1492.

While sailing the waters between Cancun and Isla Mujeres, you’ll enjoy a gourmet dinner and open bar, with a thrilling pirate battle, acrobatics, fireworks, and live music.

For a more relaxed evening, you can attend the Cirque du Soleil show, JOYÀ.

Set in an intimate, custom-built theater at the Vidanta Riviera Maya resort, JOYÀ is a visual feast that combines breathtaking acrobatics, stunning costumes, and mesmerizing music in a way only Cirque du Soleil can deliver.

The show tells the story of a young girl who embarks on a fantastical journey to uncover the secrets of her family’s past, drawing inspiration from Mexico’s rich history and culture.

There are several ticket options for JOYÀ, so you can choose the experience that best suits your preferences and budget:

• Show Only Experience: Includes a seat at a lateral table or a high stool at the back of the theater, with the option to purchase drinks or popcorn from the bar.
• Show, Premium Seats, Drinks and Appetizers Experience: Includes 7 gourmet appetizers, half a bottle of Champagne, and central seats.
• Show and Dinner Experience: Includes a 3-course dinner, half a bottle of Champagne per person, and seats close to the stage.
• VIP Show and Dinner Experience: Includes priority theater access, a welcome cocktail in the VIP lounge, a 3-course dinner, unlimited Champagne during dinner, and the best seats in the theater.

You can select your prefered option here:

Day 3: Explore Isla Mujeres and Isla Contoy

Option A. Visit the Beautiful Island of Isla Mujeres

While enjoying Cancun in 4 days, take a trip to the charming island of Isla Mujeres, just a short ferry ride away.

In the morning, catch the ferry to Isla Mujeres.

Once you arrive, you can rent a golf cart or a bike to easily explore the island at your own pace. Start your adventure at Garrafon Reef Park, where you can spend the morning snorkeling, relaxing, and swimming in the clear waters.

After enjoying Garrafon Park, go to Punta Sur to see the stunning sculpture park and the temple of Ixchel, the Mayan goddess of the moon and fertility. The views from here are breathtaking, and it’s a perfect spot for capturing some amazing photos.

In the afternoon, relax at Playa Norte, the most popular beach on the island. With its soft white sand and calm, turquoise waters, it’s the ideal place to unwind.

Before catching the ferry back to Cancun, take a leisurely stroll along Hidalgo Avenue, where you can enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, do some shopping, and perhaps have a final drink or snack.

Option B.  Isla Contoy (Includes Quick Stop at Isla Mujeres)

If you’re looking for a more laid-back and unique experience, consider taking a trip to Isla Contoy, home to my favorite beach in Mexico.

I remember perfectly, approaching by boat for the first time, I couldn’t believe my eyes; I had only seen this kind of landscape in the movies!😍

This nature reserve is a hidden gem with pristine white sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and lush vegetation.

Because of its protected status, only 200 visitors per day are allowed on the island, enhancing its peaceful and exclusive feel.

Make sure to book your tour in advance with a company that has the required permit to visit the island.

The tour includes roundtrip boat transportation, snorkeling, an open bar on the boat, a lunch of Tikin Xik Mayan grilled fish on Contoy beach, free time on Isla Contoy, and a stopover on Isla Mujeres.

Book the Isla Contoy Tour here:

Day 4: Discover Tulum

If you have 4 days in Cancun, don’t miss the chance to spend a day in Tulum, a beautiful town known for its stunning beaches and well-preserved Mayan ruins.

A. Morning Visit to the Tulum Archaeological Site

Begin your day by exploring the ancient ruins of Tulum, one of the most iconic attractions in the Riviera Maya. Arriving early, right when it opens at 8 a.m., is the best way to avoid the crowds and the heat.

The ruins sit on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea, offering a breathtaking backdrop to the ancient structures. This walled city, dating back to the 6th-15th centuries, was a sacred site for the worship of the Descending God and a key point for Mayan land and sea trade.

Although it might not be the most grandiose archaeological site in the region, it is truly unique due to its stunning location within Tulum National Park, the only protected area in this busy region between Cancun and Tulum.

Spend about an hour and a half exploring and learning about its history, where you’ll see the wall with watchtowers, El Castillo, the Temple of the Frescoes, the Temple of the Descending God, and other fascinating structures like the House of the Columns, House of Halach Uinic, House of the Chultun, and House of the Cenote.

B. Cool Off in a Cenote

After exploring the ruins, cool off by visiting a cenote. These natural freshwater pools were sacred to the Mayas, who believed they were a gateway between the earthly world and the underworld.

For a first visit, I recommend the Gran Cenote, one of Tulum’s most famous cenotes, which is easily accessible by car or bicycle from the ruins. Here, you can swim in crystal-clear waters surrounded by natural beauty. It’s a sanctuary for both snorkelers and divers, offering a glimpse into the underwater world.

Nearby, Cenote Calavera, also known as the ‘Skull Cenote,’ welcomes you with a trio of holes resembling a skull, offering a unique swimming experience.

Another great option is Cenote Nicte-Ha, ideal for enjoying nature.

C. Afternoon on Tulum’s Beach Strip and Beaches

In the afternoon, take a walk along Tulum’s Beach Strip, also known as the hotel zone. This area is perfect for some shopping and a delicious lunch, with a variety of boutiques and a laid-back vibe that lets you soak in the beach vibe.

After exploring the strip, head to one of Tulum’s beautiful beaches, such as Playa Paraiso or Playa las Palmas.

Along the beach, you’ll find amazing beach clubs and restaurants like Casa Maria Mexican Grill (my favorite!), El Paraiso Tulum Restaurant, La Zebra Restaurant, Rosanegra, and many more.

D. Evening in Tulum

As the day comes to an end, you can return to Cancun or stay in Tulum to enjoy its vibrant nightlife.

The Papaya Playa Project, a beachfront boutique hotel, is perfect for chilling during the day or enjoying DJ events at night. Personally, I love its eclectic music and stunning location.

For a unique experience, try Batey – Mojito & Guarapo Bar. Their passion fruit mojito is delicious, and they have live music every day with a great atmosphere filled with travelers from around the world.

Tulum also has several rooftop bars offering distinct experiences. Mateo’s Mexican Grill is known for its vibrant atmosphere and stunning sunsets, Muuyal Rooftop offers a tranquil evening, and Nana Rooftop livens up the night with live techno music.

How to Get to Tulum from Cancun:

• By Bus: 2 hours by ADO or OCC bus. Departures every hour from 5:30 am to 9:30 pm.
• By Colectivos: This is the cheapest way, but there is no direct colectivo. Take a van from Cancun to Playa del Carmen, then another van from Playa del Carmen to Tulum. The final stop is in front of the ADO bus terminal in Tulum on Highway 307.
• By Car: Approximately 1 hour and 53 minutes on Mexico Highway 307, which goes along the Riviera Maya.
• Join a tour: To spend a perfect day in Tulum without worrying about transportation, I recommend this tour. It includes hotel pickup, a guided tour of the Tulum ruins, a visit to the Coba ruins, and free time at a cenote!

Book it here:

Best Places to Stay in Cancun for a Perfect 4-Day Trip

• Mayan Monkey Cancun: hostel with a festive atmosphere in Cancun’s hotel zone, very close to the beach and bars. Features include a terrace, outdoor pool, bar with happy hour, air conditioning, ping-pong, good WI-FI. Offers private rooms and dorms, starting at just $24 USD!

• Bed and Breakfast Pecari: For more comfort, I highly recommend this establishment. A beautiful B&B located in a quiet street near the city center and the ADO bus station. Enjoy a relaxation area by the pool, spacious rooms, and a good breakfast, starting at $50 USD per night

• Beachscape Kin Ha Villas & Suites: offers rooms, suites, and villas for 2 to 12 people with direct access to the beach. Includes an outdoor pool, children’s pool, gym, restaurant, and beach bar. Breakfast included, starting at $218 USD per night

• The Royal Sands Resort & Spa: spacious rooms and suites with ocean views in the heart of Cancun’s hotel zone. Features a large outdoor pool, gym, spa, fine restaurants, sports bar, and many activities. All-inclusive, starting at $485 USD per night.

Is 4 Days in Cancun Enough?

Absolutely, 4 days in Cancun is enough to experience the best this vibrant destination has to offer.

With a well-planned itinerary, you can enjoy Cancun’s beautiful beaches, try fun activities like snorkeling and jet skiing, do some shopping, and enjoy the exciting nightlife.

You will also explore amazing archaeological sites such as Chichen Itza and Tulum, take a refreshing dip in stunning cenotes, and discover the charm of Isla Mujeres and the paradisiacal Isla Contoy.

Of course, if you have the opportunity to stay for 5, 6, or 7 days in Cancun, you could explore even more.

You could visit Playa del Carmen, swim with turtles in Akumal, and enjoy the incredible attraction parks like Xcaret, Xplor, and Xel-Ha.

Additionally, you could spend a day on the stunning Cozumel Island, experiencing its unique underwater world and beautiful beaches!

Rent a Car in Cancun

Renting a car is for sure the best way to explore Cancun and make the most of your stay!

While it’s not super useful to visit the city, having a car is a must to discover the rest of the country.

To rent a car, personnally, I always use Booking.com Cars, for a few reasons:

• You can easily compare the rental cars prices between all the agencies: for sure the easiest way to find the best rate!
• Cancellation is often offered free of charge: no need to worry if you change your mind
• Booking Cars offers full insurance coverage at a lower price than the rental companies, so it’s an instant saving with no effort

Simply click on the green button to find your rental car at the best price:

How to Find a Cheap Flight to Cancun

Cancun International Airport is a major hub, well-connected with frequent flights from Europe and North America by leading airlines such as Air Transat, Air Canada, Iberia, Aeromexico, Interjet, and KLM. Finding a flight that fits your schedule is easy.

To snag the best deals on flights to Cancun and other domestic routes in Mexico, use our flight comparison tool, partnered with Skyscanner. It’s your quickest way to find the best prices!

You’re traveling in Mexico? These articles will help you!

Discover all my articles about Mexico: All my articles to help you plan your trip to Mexico are listed there.

• The 35 Best Things to Do in Mexico
• Yucatan Peninsula: Top 20 things to Do and See
• Cancun: The 30 Best Places to Visit and Highlights
• Where to stay in Cancun? The guide to the best hotels and resorts, for all budgets
• The Best Hotels near Cancun Airport
• 1 Day in Cancun – The Perfect 24h itinerary
• 2 Days in Cancun – How to make the most of your week-end in Cancun
• 3 Days in Cancun –  What to See, Do and Eat
• 5 Days in Cancun – The Ideal Itinerary for First-Time Visitors
• The 15 Best Cenotes near Cancun

• Itinerary: 1 week in Yucatan – The Ultimate 6, 7 or 8 days Itinerary
• Itinerary: 10 days in Yucatan – Best Itinerary for 9, 10 or 11 Days in Yucatan
• Itinerary: 2 weeks in Yucatan – Epic Itinerary + All my Best Tips!
• Itinerary: 3 weeks in Yucatan – Best things to do in 20-21 days
• Itinerary: 1 month in Yucatan – Yucatan Peninsula in 29, 30 or 31 days from Cancun
• Road trip in Yucatan: The best itineraries for 7, 10, 15, 21 days and 1 month

• Itinerary: 10 days in Mexico – Mexico City, Chiapas and Yucatan
• Itinerary: 2 weeks in Mexico – Best itinerary to discover the Yucatan Peninsula and Chiapas!
• Itinerary: 3 weeks in Mexico – Mexico City, Puebla, Oaxaca, Chiapas, Campeche, Yucatán and Riviera Maya
• Itinerary: 1 month in Mexico – My Epic 30-31 Days Itinerary from Mexico City to Cancun
• Road trip in Mexico: The best itineraries for 10, 15, 21 days and a month

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