Cancún

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Top attractions in Cancún

See all tours & things to do in Cancún

Top 10 things to do in Cancún

Stunning beaches and a thriving nightlife are Cancun's main attractions, but it would be foolish to limit yourself in a city that offers visitors so much! From ancient ruins to top restaurants and wildlife, here are a few of the highlights.

  • 1. Contoy Island

    Isla Contoy is a nature reserve and home to many birds, plants, and turtles. Tours are usually led by a biologist and end with snorkelling off its pristine shoreline!

  • 2. Chichen Itza

    This renowned archaeological site is the most essential item on any Cancun sightseeing list. The restored pyramid at its heart crowns an iconic city from Mayan mythology.

  • 3. Ik Kil

    The Yucatan's vast groundwater sinkholes were considered portals to the underworld by the ancient Maya. Few are as famous as Ik Kil, which is open for public swimming!

  • 4. Cancún Underwater Museum

    Snorkel through this incredible museum at the Aquaworld scuba-diving center – home to hundreds of submerged sculptures and the world's largest artificial coral reef!

  • 5. Coba

    Climb the 130 steps to the top of the Mayan pyramid, and look out over the ruins of an ancient city that was once the grave enemy of Chichen Itza!

  • 6. Xel-Ha Park

    There's plenty for the whole family to enjoy at this ecotourism hotspot. Swim with dolphins, manatees, and stingrays when you're not relaxing amid the spectacular scenery!

  • 7. Dos Ojos

    The "Two Eyes" cenote system still hasn't been completely explored, but the parts that have offer crystal-clear waters and a lot of natural light – perfect for snorkelling!

  • 8. Isla Mujeres

    It's only a 15-minute boat ride to the "Island of Women," where visitors can enjoy the uncluttered beaches, tour the lively town on a golf cart, or go swimming with dolphins!

  • 9. Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve

    Stretched over more than a million acres, Sian Ka'an boasts numerous archaeological sites and wildlife habitats, as well as gorgeous beaches that must be accessed via the jungle!

  • 10. Tulum

    Don't have time for Chichen Itza or Coba? Then head to Tulum. The ruins aren't quite as impressive, but it's closer and there are lots of great open-air restaurants downtown!

Planning Your Visit

  • Best time to visit?

    Peak season is December to April, with near-perfect weather drawing the larger crowds. Though spring, summer, and fall may offer more enticing vacation deals and hotel rates, the summers are punishingly hot and the fall months often stormy.

  • How many days?

    With so many immersive activities and attractions, you'll want to spend at least a week in Cancun to make the most of your visit!

  • Which currency?

    The official currency of Mexico's eastermost city is, of course, the Mexican peso. However, American dollars are widely accepted in the tourist areas. Either way it isn't hard to find a bank or exchange house that will swap whatever cash you came with.

Good to know

  • Language
    Spanish
  • Currency
    Mexican Peso (MXN)
  • Time Zone
    UTC (-05:00)
  • Country Code
    +52
  • Best time to visit
    Summer is peak season, so delay your visit to September through November, when you'll still enjoy good weather, but fewer crowds. Just remember, the light drizzle is ever-present!

Top Attractions in Cancún

Things to Do in Cancún

Cities in Mexico

Other Sightseeing Options in Cancún

Want to discover all there is to do in Cancún? Click here for a full list.

What people are saying about Cancún

Overall rating

4.3 / 5

based on 4,182 reviews

Went on this tour on our last day in cancun. Loved every minute of it! It's fast paced and you get about an hour to hour and a half at each destination, but that was more than enough to take everything in without feeling rushed. Richy and Raymond were very fun and courteous and accommodated us with everything we needed. Can not say enough good things about our guides. Small groups which is a plus. We were 10 total and everyone had a great time. Raymond advised us on what's worth doing and what not to do at each destination and that was a big plus. We went and did the right things the right way. I would definitely recommend this tour. Be ready for a busy but really fun day.

Coba, Cenote, Tulum and Playa del Carmen Tour from Cancun Reviewed by Serghei, 2/17/2021

We got to see a lot of places in one day. Felt a bit rushed but everything was on time and got picked up in our hotel located in Hotelera zona in Cancun. Cenote was beautiful and food was delicious. Chichen Itza and ballcourt looked amazing and tour provided information about Mayans. Valladolid was a quick 30 min stop on our way back. My only complaint is that there were a lot on people on bus tour with few empty seats with this ongoing pandemic. I thought maybe they would reduce amount of ppl. Overall good experience.

Chichén Itzá: Hubiku Cenote & Valladolid Tour Reviewed by Yaretzy, 2/1/2021

I highly recommend this tour. Our tour guide Cayan was great, very informative. We stopped at four different restaurants and had different types of tacos. All were delicious. Our last stop was for dessert and it was delicious too. Cayan provided historical details about the area and the food. If you don’t do anything else in Cancun take this tour. You will be impressed.

Cancún: Taco & Local Beer Tasting Tour Reviewed by Avis, 2/21/2021

Loved this excursion don’t hesitate to buy this it was a lot of fun...however at many resorts they are at the Oceanside selling excursion so if you don’t wanna travel to there meeting spot then few dollars more (20+) buy it at your resort but this spot is cheaper now if you buy in person it’s like 80 vs 64 on here. Had a really good time.

Cancun: Jet Ski Rental Reviewed by Anonymous, 2/20/2021

Bus was comfortable, clear instructions and very punctual. Activities were engaging. Alfredo drove very well and Alan was educational and entertaining. Lunch stop doesn't have the best options for vegetarians and vegans. Get on this tour for a day well spent!

Cancún/Riviera Maya: Chichén Itzá, Valladolid & Cenote Tour Reviewed by Anonymous, 2/17/2021

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