Planning a 3-Day Trip to Tulum

Spend your first day at the beach and ruins, dedicate day two to cenotes, and finish day three exploring the town and local art. Focus on staying within the 'Tulum Town' (Pueblo) area to save on transport and food costs.

  1. Secure your transport from Cancun. Book a shared shuttle or take the ADO bus from Cancun International Airport (CUN) to the Tulum bus terminal. Do not rely on local taxis at the airport as they can cost upwards of $120 USD.
  2. Choose your home base. Stay in Tulum Pueblo for lower costs and access to authentic restaurants. If you prioritize beach access, stay in the Hotel Zone (Zona Hotelera), but expect to pay a 300% premium on meals and drinks.
  3. Rent a bicycle. Rent a bike for $10 per day from your accommodation or a local shop. It is the most efficient way to navigate the heavy traffic between the town and the beach road.
  4. Timing your site visits. Arrive at the Tulum Ruins at 8:00 AM sharp when they open. This avoids the massive tour bus crowds that arrive from Cancun by 11:00 AM.
Is Tulum walkable?
No. The distance between the town (Pueblo) and the beach is about 4-5 kilometers. You will need a bike or a taxi.
Do I need to carry cash?
Yes. While larger hotels take cards, street stalls, cenotes, and local taxis are cash-only. Use ATMs in the town rather than the beach.