3 Days in Cancún Things to Do Where to Stay and Must Sees

Cancún, located on the Yucatán Peninsula in Mexico, is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and rich cultural heritage. If you’re planning a trip to Cancún, here are some travel tips to help you make the most of your visit:

Pack plenty of sunscreen and stay hydrated, as the sun in Cancún can be intense.
Learn some basic Spanish phases to help you communicate with locals.
Try authentic Mexican cuisine at local restaurants and street vendors.
Book excursions to explore Mayan ruins and eco-parks for a deeper understanding of the region’s history and environment.
Use pesos for local purchases, as it is the most widely accepted currency in Cancún.
Be respectful of the local culture and customs, including dressing modestly when visiting religious sites.
Stay safe by avoiding risky behavior and always keeping an eye on your belongings.
Take advantage of public transportation options like buses and taxis to get around the city.
Enjoy the nightlife in places like the Hotel Zone and downtown Cancún, but drink responsibly and watch out for scams.
Purchase travel insurance to cover unexpected expenses like medical emergencies or trip cancellations.

Things to Do in Cancun / Top 20 Must See Sites and Monument to Visit in Cancun

Chichen Itza: Explore the ancient Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The site is home to the iconic El Castillo pyramid and the Great Ball Court. (Reference: https://www.chichenitza.com/)
Tulum: Visit the stunning seaside ruins of Tulum, perched on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea. Learn about the history of this ancient port city and enjoy the picturesque views. (Reference: https://tulumruins.net/)
Xcaret Park: Spend a day at Xcaret Park, an eco-archaeological park with a variety of activities including snorkeling, ziplining, and swimming in underground rivers. (Reference: https://www.xcaret.com/)
Isla Mujeres: Take a ferry to Isla Mujeres, a charming island off the coast of Cancún known for its white-sand beaches and laid-back atmosphere. Explore the island by renting a golf cart or bike. (Reference: https://www.islamujeres.com/)
Museo Maya de Cancún: Learn about the Mayan civilization at the Museo Maya de Cancún, which features artifacts and exhibits related to the region’s history and culture. (Reference: http://museo-mayacancun.com/)
Xel-Ha Park: Visit Xel-Ha Park, a natural aquatic theme park where you can swim, snorkel, and relax in the crystal-clear waters of cenotes. The park also offers a buffet lunch and unlimited drinks. (Reference: https://www.xelha.com/)
El Rey Ruins: Explore the ancient ruins of El Rey, located in the Hotel Zone of Cancún. This archaeological site features well-preserved Mayan structures and offers insight into the region’s past. (Reference: https://www.visitmexico.com/en/actividades-principales/quintana-roo/zona-arqueologica-el-rey/)
La Isla Shopping Village: Shop, dine, and explore at La Isla Shopping Village, a popular open-air mall in Cancún. Enjoy waterfront views, a variety of stores, restaurants, and entertainment options. (Reference: https://laislacancun.com/)
Coco Bongo: Experience the legendary nightlife of Cancún at Coco Bongo, a high-energy nightclub with live shows, music, and entertainment. Dance the night away in this lively and colorful venue. (Reference: https://www.cocobongo.com/)
Playa Delfines: Soak up the sun at Playa Delfines, one of the most beautiful beaches in Cancún. Relax on the powdery white sand, swim in the turquoise waters, and enjoy stunning views of the Caribbean Sea. (Reference: https://www.visitmexico.com/en/actividades-principales/quintana-roo/playa-delfines/)
Mercado 28: Shop for souvenirs and local handicrafts at Mercado 28, a traditional Mexican market in downtown Cancún. Browse through stalls selling jewelry, clothing, pottery, and other authentic items. (Reference: https://www.cancun.com/attractions/mercado-28/)
Garrafon Natural Reef Park: Visit Garrafon Natural Reef Park on Isla Mujeres for snorkeling, zip-lining, kayaking, and other outdoor activities. Explore the marine life and coral reefs of the Caribbean Sea. (Reference: https://www.garrafon.com/)
Cancún Underwater Museum: Dive or snorkel at the Cancún Underwater Museum, an art installation featuring over 500 submerged sculptures. This unique attraction combines art and conservation efforts in a stunning underwater setting. (Reference: https://musacancun.org/en/)
Cancún Wax Museum: Step into the world of celebrities and historical figures at the Cancún Wax Museum. Pose for photos with lifelike wax replicas of famous personalities from Mexico and around the world. (Reference: http://www.museodecera.com.mx/en/)
Parque Las Palapas: Experience local culture at Parque Las Palapas, a bustling park in downtown Cancún. Enjoy live music, food vendors, and cultural events in this vibrant and lively outdoor space. (Reference: https://www.cancun.com/attractions/parque-las-palapas/)
Xoximilco Cancún: Cruise the scenic canals of Xoximilco Cancún in a traditional trajinera boat. Enjoy a festive evening of music, dancing, and traditional Mexican cuisine as you float through the colorful waterways. (Reference: https://www.xoximilco.com/cancun/)
Parque Kabah: Escape the city and explore nature at Parque Kabah, a peaceful park with walking trails, gardens, and wildlife. Relax in the tranquil surroundings and enjoy a break from the hustle and bustle of Cancún. (Reference: https://www.cancun.com/attractions/parque-kabah/)
El Meco Archaeological Site: Visit the El Meco Archaeological Site, a hidden gem near Cancún with well-preserved Mayan ruins. Climb to the top of the main pyramid for panoramic views of the surrounding area. (Reference: https://www.visitmexico.com/en/actividades-principales/quintana-roo/zona-arqueologica-el-meco/)
Cancún Sign: Take a photo at the iconic Cancún sign, located near Playa Delfines. This colorful sign is a popular spot for tourists to capture memories of their visit to Cancún with the Caribbean Sea as a backdrop. (Reference: https://www.visitmexico.com/en/actividades-principales/quintana-roo/letrero-de-cancun/)

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Our Top Travel Gear and Equipment Recommendations: Best Camera, Photo and Video Equipment for Your Travels

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3 Days in Cancun / 3-day itinerary for your visit to Cancún:

Day 1:

Morning: Visit the ancient ruins of Chichen Itza and learn about the history of the Mayan civilization. (Price: $25-$30 for entrance fee, transportation options available)
Afternoon: Explore the eco-park of Xcaret and enjoy activities like snorkeling, ziplining, and swimming in underground rivers. (Price:
$100-$150 for entrance fee, transportation options available)
Evening: Experience the nightlife at Coco Bongo and dance the night away at this lively nightclub. (Price: $60-$100 for entrance fee and drinks)

Day 2:

Morning: Take a ferry to Isla Mujeres and spend the morning relaxing on the white-sand beaches. (Price: $20-$30 for ferry ride)
Afternoon: Explore the Museo Maya de Cancún and learn about the Mayan culture and history of the region. (Price: $5-$10 for entrance fee)
Evening: Enjoy a sunset dinner at a waterfront restaurant in the Hotel Zone and take in the beautiful views of the Caribbean Sea. (Price: $30-$50 for dinner)

Day 3:

Morning: Visit the Cancún Underwater Museum and dive or snorkel among the underwater sculptures. (Price: $50-$70 for entrance fee and equipment rental)
Afternoon: Relax and unwind at Playa Delfines, soaking up the sun and swimming in the clear turquoise waters. (Price: Free)
Evening: Take a walk around Parque Las Palapas and experience the local culture with live music and food vendors. (Price: Free)

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Where to Stay in Cancun / Top Rated Hotels in Cancún:

Top Rated Cancun Hotels priced over $200 per night:

Best Reviewed Cancun Hotels priced between $100 to $200 per night:

Recommended Hotels in Cancun priced between $50 to $100 per night:

Top Cancun Hotels priced between $20 to $50 per night:

Best Budget Hotels and Hostels in Cancun priced below $20 per night:

Please note that ratings and prices may vary depending on the season and availability. Make sure to check the current rates and availability through the provided links.

We hope this travel guide helps you plan your trip to Cancún and makes your visit unforgettable. Safe travels!

For more about Mexico, Mexico City, Cancun and other travel destinations in Mexico, read the travel tips and see all travel stories, videos, photos and writing on Rolling Coconut’s Travel section.

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