How to spend 5 Days in Cancun: The Best Itinerary + Where to Stay

Planning to visit Cancun for 5 days and wondering about the best places to see?

You’re in the right place!

I’ve put together a detailed 5-day itinerary to help you make the most of your trip. This guide will take you through all the must-see attractions and top activities in Cancun.

I’ll walk you through each day, sharing the best things to do and see, along with some great tips and accommodation suggestions to suit your budget.

Ready to discover the best spots in Cancun for a perfect 5-day trip? Let’s dive in!

Day 1: Dive into Cancun’s Wonders

A. Snorkel in the Cancun Underwater Museum

Kick off your adventure by snorkeling in the Cancun Underwater Museum (MUSA). This unique attraction features over 500 life-size sculptures submerged in the clear waters of the Caribbean Sea. It’s an amazing sight that combines art and nature in a very special way.

The museum helps coral and marine life grow, making it a fascinating place for both art lovers and nature enthusiasts. You can explore two reefs: Punta Nizuc and Manchones.

You can choose to snorkel, dive with a tank, or take a tour on a glass-bottom boat to see these incredible sculptures.

B. Relax and Play at the Beaches

After exploring the underwater wonders, head to some of the best beaches in Cancun such as Playa Delfines, Playa Tortugas, or Playa Chac Mool. Here, you can either relax on the soft sands or dive into fun activities like jet skiing,  parasailing, or driving a speedboat.

Each beach has its own charm: Playa Delfines is known for its beautiful panoramic views, Playa Tortugas offers a lively atmosphere with plenty of restaurants and bars, and Playa Chac Mool is perfect for water sports enthusiasts. You can even surf at Playa Chac Mool!

If you are traveling with your family in Cancun, I recommend you go to Playa Langosta, which is ideal for children because of its crystal-clear and shallow waters.

C. Evening Drinks at La Isla Shopping Village or Plaza Forum

As the sun sets, head to La Isla Shopping Village or Plaza Forum for some evening drinks. Both offer plenty of bars and lounges where you can relax with a cocktail and enjoy Cancun’s lively atmosphere.

La Isla Shopping Village is an open-air mall with beautiful lagoon views. It has over 150 stores and lots of fun things to do, like Ripley’s Museum, the Sky Wheel, and The Wax Museum. It’s perfect for a laid-back evening.

Plaza Forum By The Sea, located at Punta Cancun, is popular with tourists. This three-story complex has many shops, restaurants, and nightclubs. You can buy silver, crafts, and clothes, or grab a quick bite at the fast-food places. The Hard Rock Café is a highlight here.

For a fun night out, Plaza Forum is surrounded by some of the best clubs like Coco Bongo and The City.

Day 2: Explore Ancient Ruins and Enjoy Evening Entertainment

A. Tour to Chichen Itza and Ik Kil Cenote

Start the second day of your 5 days in Cancun with an early morning tour to Chichen Itza, one of the New 7 Wonders of the World and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Chichen Itza, founded by the Itzaes in the 6th century, was the most powerful city in the Yucatán Peninsula! Invaded by the Toltecs in the 10th century, it was mysteriously abandoned around 1250.

Today, in about 2h30- 3h, you can visit the main pyramid of Kukulkan (also commonly called El Castillo), the Temple of the Warriors, the Observatory, the Ball Court, and many other ancient structures.

After exploring Chichen Itza, head to the nearby Ik Kil Cenote, one of the most stunning cenotes in the Yucatan, just 2.5 miles away.

This blue cenote, 82 feet underground, is surrounded by lush plant-covered walls and long vines.

Cenote Ik Kil is accessible for the whole family, offering amenities like a gift shop, lockers, changing rooms, a large parking lot, and safety ropes in the water. Make sure to bring your swimsuit and a towel!

How to Get to Chichen Itza from Cancun:

• Rent a Car: Drive to Chichen Itza in about 2.5 hours. Parking costs 80 pesos.
• Take an ADO Bus: Depart from Cancun’s Bus Terminal at 8am and return at 4:30pm. Note that there is only one bus daily.
• Join a Guided Tour (the most convenient option): Includes round-trip transportation, a guided visit of Chichen Itza, a stop at the beautiful cenote Ik Kil, a buffet lunch, and a visit to the colonial city of Valladolid.

B. Evening Adventures: Pirate Ship or Cirque du Soleil JOYÀ

In the evening, consider two great options for entertainment: the exciting Jolly Roger pirate ship or the mesmerizing JOYÀ by Cirque du Soleil

First, embark on a pirate ship adventure aboard the Jolly Roger, a replica of Christopher Columbus’ Santa Maria, used during his first expedition to the Americas in 1492.

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

Get your Jolly Roger tickets here:

Alternatively, you can experience JOYÀ by Cirque du Soleil. Set in an intimate theater at the Vidanta Riviera Maya resort, JOYÀ combines breathtaking acrobatics, stunning costumes, and mesmerizing music in a way only Cirque du Soleil can deliver.

The show follows a young girl on a magical journey to discover her family’s secrets, inspired by Mexico’s rich history and culture.

There are several ticket options for JOYÀ to suit your preferences and budget; pick your favorite and get your tickets here:

Day 3: Explore Isla Mujeres or Isla Contoy

On Day 3 of your 5-day Cancun trip, choose between spending the entire day on Isla Mujeres or taking a trip to Isla Contoy with a brief stop at Isla Mujeres.

A. Isla Mujeres

Isla Mujeres, located 3 miles off the coast of Cancun, is a beautiful island with a rich history.

In pre-Hispanic times, the island was dedicated to Ixchel, the Mayan goddess of the moon. Mayan women made pilgrimages here as part of their transition from girlhood to womanhood.

The island also served as a refuge for famous pirates and slave traders.

• To plan your perfect day on Isla Mujeres, be sure to read my full article detailing all the best spots and activities!

Start your day by heading to Playa Norte, one of the most stunning beaches in Mexico, where you can relax on the soft white sand or swim in the calm, turquoise waters.

Next, rent a golf cart or a bike and head to Punta Sur Sculpture Park at the island’s southern tip for breathtaking views, amazing sculptures, and the ancient Mayan temple of goddess Ixchel!

For some adventure, head to Parque Garrafon, located next to the Sculpture Park.

This park offers a variety of activities such as zip-lining, snorkeling among amazing reefs, kayaking, and even just relaxing in a hammock by the pool.

If you want a more exclusive experience, you can get the VIP tickets to Garrafon Park that give you access to a private area with premium food and drinks, making your visit even more enjoyable.

To be honest, it’s my favorite place on Isla Mujeres—I usually head there directly to spend the whole day! 😍

B. Isla Contoy with a Stop at Isla Mujeres

Another great option is a trip to Isla Contoy, which includes a quick stop at Isla Mujeres.

Isla Contoy is my favorite beach in Mexico—it feels like a scene from a movie with its white sand and palm trees.

This island is a protected nature reserve, so only 200 visitors are allowed each day. The exclusivity is fantastic, especially given how busy Cancun and the Riviera Maya can be!

Isla Contoy is a true paradise, known for its pristine beaches and rich wildlife. You can explore the island on foot, taking the short guided tour, or just relax on the beach and soak in the natural beauty.

• Don’t miss out on my detailed experience at Isla Contoy, where I share all the highlights and tips for visiting this beautiful island!

Day 4: Discover the Wonders of Tulum

Today, spend the day exploring Tulum, a charming town known for its chic bohemian vibe, stunning coastal views, and ancient Mayan ruins.

You’ll visit the famous Tulum ruins, take a refreshing dip in a cenote, relax on the beautiful beaches, and enjoy the vibrant nightlife.

A. Visit to the Tulum Archaeological Site

Begin your day with a visit to the archaeological site of Tulum, a must-see on your 5 days in Cancun itinerary, and try to arrive as soon as it opens at 8 a.m. to avoid the crowds and the heat.

Though not the biggest site, in my opinion, its stunning location makes it unique: perched on a cliff overlooking the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea, this ancient Mayan city offers breathtaking views!

This walled city, dating back to the 6th-15th centuries, was a sacred site for the worship of the Descending God and a crucial hub for Mayan land and sea trade.

Today, in just 1.5 to 2 hours, you can explore the ruins and discover well-preserved structures like El Castillo, the Temple of the Frescoes, and the Temple of the Descending God.

• Be sure to check out my detailed article about the Tulum ruins for more in-depth information and tips on making the most of your visit!

B. Cool Off in a Cenote

After exploring the ruins, cool off with a visit to a nearby cenote.

For a first experience swimming in a cenote or if you’re traveling with kids, I recommend the Gran Cenote, with its crystal-clear waters that are perfect for swimming and snorkeling.

Another great option is Cenote Calavera, located on the same road (109), and perfect for capturing stunning Instagram photos.

For a more off-the-beaten-path experience with fewer tourists, head to Cenote Zemway or Cenote Aktun-Bej, which are lesser known but still amazing.

• To discover all your cenote options around Tulum, check out my guide on the best cenotes in Tulum!

If you want to fully enjoy the cenotes in Tulum, consider taking this bike tour that takes you to different types of amazing cenotes (underground rivers and open cenotes) with a traditional meal in the jungle. Book it here:

C. Afternoon Stroll Along Tulum’s Beach Strip

In the afternoon, spend some time in the Hotel Zone, known as the Tulum Beach Strip. It is lined with trendy boutiques, charming cafes, restaurants and beach clubs. It also offers access to beautiful beaches like Playa Paraiso and Playa Las Palmas.

This is the perfect place to grab a bite! There are fantastic options for every budget, including Casa Maria Mexican Grill, El Paraiso Tulum Restaurant, Cinco Tulum, La Zebra Restaurant, and many more.

• Check out my list of the top places to eat in Tulum to make your choice!

D. Nightlife in Tulum

Although very different from Cancun and Playa del Carmen, nightlife in Tulum is internationally known, offering everything from beachside cocktails and jungle parties to stunning rooftop views.

The Papaya Playa Project, a beachfront boutique hotel, is perfect for chilling during the day and DJ events at night, especially their famous full moon parties. Casa Jaguar offers an intimate setting with great music and cocktails.

For something unique, visit Batey – Mojito & Guarapo Bar for their delicious passion fruit mojito and live music.

Tulum also has great rooftop bars: Mateo’s Mexican Grill for vibrant atmosphere and stunning sunsets, Muuyal Rooftop for a tranquil evening, and Nana Rooftop for live techno music.

Day 5: Spend the Day in Playa del Carmen or Cozumel

For the last day of your 5-day Cancun trip, you have two fantastic options: spending the day in Playa del Carmen or exploring the beautiful island of Cozumel.

Cozumel is accessible by ferry from the Playa del Carmen port, so you’ll head to Playa del Carmen either way!

A. Playa del Carmen

You can kick off your day in Playa del Carmen with a hearty breakfast at one of the many great spots that suit all tastes and budgets.

For a local and affordable option, head to Tortas del Carmen, which offers a variety of Mexican tortas (sandwiches) with different fillings, including vegetarian options.

For a more relaxed atmosphere and a beautiful garden setting, my favorite spot is La Cueva del Chango. Their chilaquiles are a must-try! And trust me, I live in Mexico City—the mecca of chilaquiles—so I know it’s tough to find great ones outside the capital, but these were absolutely delicious.

For a taste of France in Playa del Carmen, visit Chez Celine or Choux Choux. They offer quiches, omelettes, salmon egg benedict and some of the best pastries in town.B. Head to the Best Beaches

After breakfast, head straight to some of Playa del Carmen’s best beaches.

Playa Fundadores or the famous Playa Mamitas are very central, but if you’re looking for something a bit quieter and less touristy, check out Playa Avenida Colosio, Playa 88, or Playa Punta Esmeralda.

If you’re looking for more comfort, consider visiting one of the many beach clubs in Playa del Carmen, like Lido Beach Club, Coralina Daylight Club, and Mamita’s Beach Club, which offer food, drinks, music, and amenities for a fee.

For those who love adventure, there are plenty of adrenaline-pumping activities to choose from: a catamaran tour, a parasailing ride, the ATV and speed boat adventure or (my favorite 😃) the buggy and cenote tour

In the afternoon, stroll along Quinta Avenida (Fifth Avenue), the city’s main shopping street, which stretches over several kilometers. It is lined with restaurants, bars, shops and boutiques offering everything from clothing and jewelry to handcrafted souvenirs and traditional Mexican crafts.

Make sure to visit Parque Fundadores, one of the oldest parks in the city and home to the iconic statue of the Mayan Portal. The park hosts various events, and you can see the Danza de los Voladores, a ritual declared Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO, during the day. At night, enjoy the impressive pre-Hispanic dances.

B. Cozumel Island

Cozumel, the third largest island in Mexico, has been declared a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO for its rich biodiversity.

Recognized as one of the best diving destinations in the world, Cozumel boasts exceptional diving and snorkeling spots.

The Cozumel Reef National Park, part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System, offers incredible marine life diversity, including turtles, 26 species of coral, and 300 species of fish, all in clear waters with excellent visibility.

For your day in Cozumel, you have many exciting options:

Option 1: Discover Cozumel’s best snorkeling spots, including El Cielo, known for its numerous starfish. You can book the snorkeling tour here, which includes lunch.

Option 2 (my favorite option!): Take the jeep tour to the beautiful Punta Sur Reserve, which offers snorkeling, free time on the beach, lunch at a beach club, and a tequila tasting. Book the Punta Sur Tour here! 

Option 3 (great for families): I recommend to check out Chankanaab Adventure Beach Park (Get your tickets here!) or Playa Mia Grand Beach Park

Best Places to Stay for an Unforgettable 5-Day Vacation in Cancun

• 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 Spending Just 5 Days in Cancun Enough?

Five days in Cancun is enough to see many of the major attractions and enjoy the beautiful beaches, but it will definitely leave you wanting more!

If you have more time, consider adding a day trip to Holbox Island, known for its stunning beaches and laid-back atmosphere.

You can also swim with marine turtles in Akumal, explore the Natural Biosphere Reserve of Sian Ka’an, or have a blast at fun parks like Xplor or Xcaret.

Check out my other Cancun guides for more tips and insights:

• Cancun: The 30 Best Places to Visit and Highlights
• 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
• 4 Days in Cancun – The Best Itinerary + Where to stay

Rent a Car in Cancun

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

While a car might not be essential for getting around the city itself, it’s a must-have for discovering the surrounding areas and the rest of the region.

Personally, 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, 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
• 4 Days in Cancun – The Best Itinerary + Where to stay
• 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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