Cancun holidays

How to reach Cancún

Flight time: Direct flights to Cancún from London, and other major UK airports, typically take around 10 to 11 hours.

Transfer time: Once you land at Cancún International Airport, a transfer to the hotel zone or downtown will take about 20 to 30 minutes. Taxis and hotel shuttles are readily available.

Price: A standard taxi from the airport to the hotel zone costs around 750–1000 Mexican pesos (MXN), while a shared shuttle service might set you back around 250–400 MXN per person.

Best time to visit Cancún

Mexico is a year-round destination, but the best time for your Cancún holidays depends largely on your weather and sightseeing preferences.

December to April is high season, with pleasantly warm temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C. Rainfall is minimal with 8–10 hours of sunshine each day, making it an ideal time for beach days. This period also brings with it larger crowds and higher prices.

May to September can be rather warm and humid, with temperatures often soaring above 30°C. The chances of rain increase, particularly in September, which is also peak hurricane season. On the plus side, visitors can look forward to smaller crowds and more affordable hotel rates. Sunshine hours range from 7–9 hours a day.

October to November is a transitional season, with a mix of sunny days and occasional showers. Temperatures hover between 25°C and 29°C, with 7–8 hours of sunshine daily.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: Spanish is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

• Local habits and customs: It's customary to greet people with a handshake or a simple “hola”. Tipping is expected in restaurants (around 10–15 percent), and it’s also polite to leave small tips for hotel staff and taxi drivers.

• Currency: The Mexican peso is the local currency, but US dollars are also widely accepted. It’s a good idea to carry some pesos for smaller purchases.

• Getting around: Public buses are the most affordable way to get around Cancún, with fares costing around 10–15 MXN per journey. Taxis are also readily available, but be sure to agree on the fare before setting off. For those planning to explore beyond Cancún, car hire is your best option.

• Electricity and plug types: Mexico uses a 127V supply voltage and 60Hz, and the plugs are typically Type A and B. UK travellers will need a plug adaptor.

• Time zone: Cancún operates on Eastern Standard Time (EST), which is 5 hours behind GMT.

Best things to do in Cancún

Holidays to Cancún are perfect for those looking to relax by the sea, explore ancient ruins or enjoy exciting watersports.

Viewpoints and panoramas

• El Mirador, Playa Delfines: Located in the hotel zone, Playa Delfines offers one of the best panoramic views in Cancún. This beach is less crowded than others, and the view from the top of the hill is well worth the trip.

• Scenic Tower Cancún: For a 360-degree view of the city, the Scenic Tower Cancún is a must. This revolving tower takes you high above the city, with views of the coastline and the Nichupté Lagoon.

The best districts

• Zona Hotelera: This is the heart of Cancún’s tourist area, stretching along the beachfront. The area is packed with luxury resorts, restaurants and nightclubs. The beaches here are some of the best in Mexico.

• Downtown Cancún (El Centro): For a more authentic experience, head to downtown Cancún. Here, you can explore bustling markets like Mercado 28, dine at authentic Mexican eateries and mingle with locals at Parque de las Palapas, which often hosts live music and events in the evenings.

Historic monuments

• El Rey Ruins: Situated in the hotel zone, the El Rey Ruins are an archeological site that gives visitors a glimpse into Cancún’s ancient Mayan history. The ruins are relatively small but well preserved, and you’ll often see iguanas sunbathing on the stones.

• Museo Maya de Cancún: This museum is home to one of the most important collections of Mayan artefacts in the region. In addition to indoor exhibits, the museum’s grounds include the San Miguelito archeological site.

Day trips in the area

• Isla Mujeres: Just a short ferry ride from Cancún, Isla Mujeres is a tranquil island known for its beautiful beaches and excellent snorkelling spots. Playa Norte is the most popular beach here, offering calm waters for swimming. Rent a golf cart to explore the island and visit the Punta Sur sculpture park for the best coastal views.

• Chichén Itzá: One of the New Seven Wonders of the World, Chichén Itzá is a must. This ancient Mayan city is about a two-hour drive from Cancún and is best known for the iconic Pyramid of Kukulcán.

• Xcaret Park: For an immersive experience in Mexican culture and natural beauty, spend a day at Xcaret Park. This eco-archeological park offers a variety of activities, including exploring underground rivers and snorkelling in natural lagoons.

Activities for families in Cancún

Cancún is a family-friendly destination with a wealth of activities that cater to all ages.

• Aquaworld: A popular watersports hub offering everything from snorkelling and diving to jet skiing and parasailing.

• Interactive Aquarium Cancún: Located in the La Isla Shopping Village, this aquarium allows children to get up close with a variety of marine life. Kids can also interact with stingrays and dolphins.

Free things to do in Cancún

Cancún has plenty of free activities on offer, allowing visitors to enjoy the beauty and culture of the city without spending a penny.

• Explore the beaches: Many of Cancún’s beaches, including Playa Delfines and Playa Tortugas, are public and free to access.

• Visit Parque de las Palapas: Located in downtown Cancún, this park is a social hub for locals and visitors alike. It’s a great place to experience local culture, with food stalls, craft vendors and live entertainment, especially on weekends.

• Mercado 28: Browse this bustling market for souvenirs, handmade crafts and local food. Even if you don’t buy anything, it’s a great spot to soak up the local atmosphere and practise your bargaining skills.

• MUSA (Museo Subacuático de Arte): While you’ll need to pay for a snorkelling or diving tour to see the underwater sculptures up close, some of the art installations are visible from above. Visitors can get a glimpse of them while swimming or on a glass-bottom boat tour.

Discover Cancun’s Stunning Beaches

Cancun’s reputation for pristine beaches is well deserved, offering holidaymakers some of the most beautiful and diverse coastal experiences. Whether you’re looking to unwind or seek adventure, Cancun has a beach for every type of traveller.

Top Beaches to Visit in Cancun

• Playa Delfines: Known for its expansive shoreline and the famous "Cancun" sign, Playa Delfines offers a serene atmosphere away from the hustle of the Hotel Zone. It’s perfect for relaxing on the soft white sand while enjoying breathtaking ocean views.

• Playa Tortugas: For a livelier beach experience, head to Playa Tortugas. This vibrant spot is great for water sports such as jet skiing, snorkelling, and paddleboarding. The beach also offers beachside dining where you can savour local cuisine.

• Playa Norte (Isla Mujeres): Just a short boat ride away, Isla Mujeres’ Playa Norte is a must-visit. Its shallow, calm waters make it ideal for families and swimmers alike, while the island’s laid-back vibe is perfect for a peaceful escape from the mainland.

Activities and Experiences

• Snorkelling and Diving: Cancun is a gateway to the second-largest barrier reef in the world, the Great Mesoamerican Reef. Here, you can dive or snorkel to witness vibrant marine life, including colourful fish, sea turtles, and rays. Don’t miss the Cancun Underwater Museum (MUSA), where over 500 sculptures create a unique underwater landscape.

• Water Sports: Whether you're into jet skiing, paddleboarding, or parasailing, Cancun’s beaches are packed with adrenaline-filled activities. Many of the beach areas, such as Playa Tortugas, are well-equipped for water sports enthusiasts.

Best Times to Visit

The ideal time to enjoy Cancun's beaches is between December and April, when the weather is dry, and temperatures are perfect for both sunbathing and exploring the coastline. However, it’s also the busiest period, so booking in advance is recommended.

With its soft sands, crystal-clear waters, and a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, Cancun’s beaches promise an unforgettable holiday experience.

Local dishes in Cancún

Cancún is a vibrant destination where the food scene is as colourful as the scenery. Whether you're dining in a luxurious resort or grabbing a bite from a street vendor, Cancún holidays are a feast for the senses.

Some typical dishes

• Ceviche: A popular dish made from fresh fish or seafood, marinated in lime juice and mixed with tomatoes, onions and coriander. It’s refreshing and full of zesty flavours – perfect for a hot day.

• Tacos de Cochinita Pibil: A famous dish from the Yucatán, this slow-cooked pork is marinated in achiote and citrus, wrapped in banana leaves and roasted underground. The result is a tender, flavourful meat that’s typically served with pickled onions and tortillas.

• Tikin Xic: This traditional Yucatecan dish features fish marinated in achiote (a bright red seasoning), sour orange juice and spices. It’s grilled to perfection in banana leaves and is a must-try for seafood lovers.

Street food

• Elotes: Grilled corn on the cob, smothered in mayonnaise, cheese, lime and chilli powder. This popular street food is a tasty snack that you’ll find at markets and street corners throughout Cancún.

• Tacos al Pastor: A beloved Mexican street food, these tacos are made with spit-roasted pork, pineapple, onions and coriander, all piled onto a soft corn tortilla. They’re a delicious and affordable snack that’s perfect for eating on the go.

Sweets and desserts

Cancún offers a variety of traditional Mexican sweets, but Churros are among the favourites. These deep-fried dough sticks are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, dusted with sugar and cinnamon, and often served with a side of chocolate sauce for dipping. You’ll find them sold by vendors in parks and markets across the city, especially in the evenings.

Local drinks

• Margarita: No trip to Cancún would be complete without sipping on a classic margarita. This cocktail, made with tequila, lime juice and Cointreau, is a refreshing way to cool down after a day of sightseeing in the sun.

• Agua de Jamaica: A popular non-alcoholic option, this hibiscus tea is served cold and sweetened. It has a tart and refreshing taste and pairs well with spicy food.

• Mezcal: For a more traditional experience, try mezcal – a smoky agave spirit similar to tequila but with a more intense flavour. Sip it neat to appreciate its complexity, or enjoy it in a Mezcal Margarita.