Complete First Timer’s Guide to Visiting Chichen Itza, Mexico

If you are looking for an amazing archaeological adventure, look no further than the Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza, Mexico! If you’re going to see this unique site in the Yucatan Peninsula for the very first time, here’s my complete guide to visiting Chichen Itza that includes EVERYTHING you need to know, from how to get there, costs, whether or not you should take a tour and my personal tips as well!

Chichen Itza is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world’s most famous ruins – and potentially the most popular tourist destination in all of Mexico, with more than 2 million visitors per year!

Let’s get started!

What is Chichen Itza?

Chichen Itza Mayan Ruins Mexico

Here’s a little bit of history and some interesting Chichen Itza facts before we jump right into it!

The ancient Mayan city of Chichen Itza was one of the largest and most important cities in all of the Mayan empire. The city was originally built around 600 AD, and at its peak, it is estimated that there were over 100,000 people living there.

The city was originally built as a ceremonial centre, and was home to many large temples and pyramids. Soon enough, Chichen Itza grew and became one of the biggest economic powerhouses in the area – and its impressive architecture was there to prove it. The city fell into ruin around 1200 AD, and was abandoned soon after.

The exact reason for the abandonment of Chichen Itza is unknown, but it is thought to be due to either environmental reasons or political unrest. The Spanish conquistadors found the lost Mayan civilization in the 16th century, but Chichen Itza remained largely forgotten until it was rediscovered by archaeologists in the early 1900s.

Today, the ruins of Chichen Itza ancient Mayan city are one of Mexico’s most popular tourist destinations and it is also listed as one of the “New Seven Wonders of the World”. The archaeological site has been extensively restored, and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

RELATED READ: Cancun vs Playa del Carmen vs Tulum – Which One Should You Choose for Your Travel Style?

Where is Chichen Itza located

Chichen-Itza-Map

Chichen Itza, officially known as Zona Arqueológica de Chichén Itzá, is not far from Riviera Maya in the Yucatan Peninsula, so only a day trip away. The archaeological sites are almost halfway on the main highway between Merida and Cancun.

Chichen Itza map

Now, before we get into all the details, here’s a little map of Chichen Itza so you can really visualise the grandeur of this once thriving civilisation, as well as some of the most important tourist attractions on-site such as the El Castillo pyramid and the Sacred Cenote:

map of chichen itza

Google Maps location – here.

Chichen Itza opening hours

Chichen Itza Mayan ruins are open every day year-round, from 9 AM to 5 PM. Last entry is at 4 PM and the site closes at 5 PM.

NOTE: Sometimes, due to extreme weather conditions (hurricanes, storms), the site may close. Be sure to check the weather forecast beforehand!

Chichen Itza entrance fee

Chichen Itza Pyramid

The Chichen Itza entrance fee in 2022 is 571 MXN, which converts to 28.6 US$, split into two components. Here’s the explanation:

This means that, unless you have online tickets bought beforehand, you’ll have to queue in two different lines at two different booths in order to get your “complete” entrance ticket. Both of these booths are close to the main entrance.

MY TIP: BUY YOUR CHICHEN ITZA TICKET ONLINE.

In order to avoid queueing, I strongly advise you get your ticket beforehand. There are a couple of hidden advantages here.

First, you avoid going there and finding out that all the tickets are sold out (there’s currently a 3.000 person limit at Chichen Itza in order to avoid overcrowding). That would be a real bummer! Second, you avoid queuing at two different booths to pay the two entrance fees. And third, you avoid the hassle of making sure you have enough cash on you!

main pyramid at Chichen Itza

You can get skip-the-line tickets online here:

TIP: Make sure you bring cash, as the card machines are often not working.

TIP #2: The admission fee changes often (it already increased two times in 2022), so it’s better to check the updated prices on Chichen Itza official website before going.

NOTE: You can use your phone camera, DSLR or point-and-shoot camera on-site for free. If you want to use a video camera or GoPro, on the other hand, you’ll have to pay an extra fee that usually ranges from 10 to 25 US$.

NOTE #2: There’s also a special event happening at night called “Kukulkan Nights”. This is basically a light and sound show on El Castillo Pyramid (also known as Kukulkan Pyramid) starting at 8 PM from Tuesday to Sunday. Admission to the show is 600 MXN (30 US$) and you must get a separate ticket for it from the ticket booth on-site (available from 5 PM to 8 PM).

Personally, I think it’s a bit overpriced and not that interesting to make me return to the pyramid at night. I would skip it and go visit a cenote or a different attraction.

Facilities at Chichen Itza

There’s a parking lot there with a 80 MXN (4 US$) parking fee, as well as luggage lockers for 40 MXN (2 US$) and even an on-site restaurant called Oxtun, with air conditioning. Being the only restaurant in the complex, the prices are rather high and the food is not that good, so I’d recommend bringing your own snacks and drinks instead. Alternatively, you can go and eat in Pisté after your visit.

If you want to buy a souvenir, you’ll see dozens of sellers in the complex FIGHTING to get you to buy memorabilia from them – and most of them can be quite pushy. They even have whistles that they blow, which can be really annoying. Be prepared to say a firm “no” and walk away when needed. I know this is how they pay for their living, but most of them enter the site unauthorised.

And just like with any other crowded attraction all around the world, it’s best to always be aware of your belongings and surroundings – just to be safe! The lockers at the entrance are a safe place to leave your bags.

RELATED READ: 21 Best Cenotes in Tulum and How To Visit Them

Best time to visit Chichen Itza, Mexico

Best time to visit Chichen Itza Mexico

Chichen Itza is a great place to visit any time of year, but if you want the best experience possible, then aim to visit during the dry season. November-April offers beautiful weather and plenty less people so your trip will be more enjoyable!

Avoid December and January as these are the peak months when tourism can get pretty busy. November or February tend to be the best as these are the two shoulder season periods, meaning slightly cooler days and a smaller chance of this Mayan site being swamped by other travellers flooding in from Playa del Carmen!

As for the time of day, I naturally recommend arriving as early as possible in order to beat the crowds and the horrible midday heat. Chichen Itza opens at 8 AM, and there will already be a small line at the entrance at that point. The busiest time of day starts from 10-11 AM onwards, usually ‘till 2 PM, when tourist buses arrive from Playa del Carmen and Cancun.

Best day of the week to visit Chichén Itzá? Definitely NOT Sunday. That’s when Mexican citizens get free entrance, so it will surely be more crowded. Avoid this day of the week as much as you can!

On the bright side of things, the current 3.000 person limit means that Chichen Itza will not be as crowded as it used to be.

Best things to do in Chichen Itza

The archeological complex at Chichen Itza covers an area of around 5 square kilometres, but here are the main attractions you should not miss during your trip there:

1 – Temple of Kukulcan / El Castillo Pyramid

El Castillo Pyramid at Chichen Itza

El Castillo, also known as the Temple of Kukulcan or Kukulkan Pyramid is hands-down the main attraction at Chichen Itza, located right in the heart of the site. 

This massive pyramid stands at a whopping 30 metres (98 ft) tall and is surrounded by a staircase with 91 steps on each of the four sides (plus one more final step at the end), leading up to the temple at the top. In total, there are 365 steps to the top, the exact number of days in a solar year. 

And here’s another fun fact: the pyramid is dedicated to Kukulcán (the Mayan Serpent God, also known as Quetzalcoatl) and it’s a wonderful symbol of both day and night. Twice a year, on the spring and autumn equinoxes, the sun sets in such a way to create an illusion: the shadow of the serpent can be seen crawling down the steps of El Castillo.

2 – The Temple of the Warriors

Located right next to El Castillo, the Temple of the Warriors is the second most impressive structure at Chichen Itza. It’s a massive complex that consists of a large plaza, as well as several temples and pyramids. 

The Warriors Temple gets its name from the hundreds of columns that adorn the complex. These columns are carved to look like Mayan warriors, each one unique in its own way. The temple is also home to the famous Chac Mool statue (the Mayan rain God), which is a reclining figure that was once used in religious rituals.

3 – The Great Ball Court / Gran Huego de Pelota

Ancient Maya Ball court at Chichen Itza

The Great Ball Court is the largest ball court in all of Mesoamerica and it’s also one of the most popular things to see at Chichen Itza. It’s located in the northwestern part of the archeological complex. The ball court is huge – it measures 166 x 68 m (545 x 225 feet), with walls that stand up to 8 m (26 feet) tall.

The ball game played here was a Mayan sport similar to hockey or lacrosse. The game was often used as a way to settle disputes between two communities, and sometimes even served as a form of human sacrifice. While the rules of the game are still largely unknown, it is believed that the object of the game was to score goals by hitting a small ball through a stone hoop that was high up on the wall. It was all fun and games until, at the end of the day, the loser was sacrificed and his skull was hung up!

4 – The Skull Platform / Tzompantli

The Skull Platform (also known as The Skull Rack) is one of the most gruesome places at Chichen Itza and gets its name from the decorations that adorn it – and its literal purpose! The platform is decorated with carvings of skulls, said to depict the people that were sacrificed here. After all, this was literally a rack where the skulls of the ballgame losers were hanged!

5 – The Mayan Observatory / El Caracol

The Observatory, also known as El Caracol, is one of the most interesting structures at Chichen Itza. The building is relatively small, but it is believed to have been used by the Mayans for astronomical purposes.

The Observatory has a unique design that consists of a circular platform with a staircase leading up to it. On the platform, there are two temples that face in opposite directions. The temples are thought to have been used to track the movement of the sun and the stars, as they line up perfectly with certain astronomical events. The Mayans were extremely skilled in astronomy, and this building is a testament to their knowledge.

While the Mayan Observatory may not be as grand or imposing as some of the other structures at Chichen Itza, it is definitely one of the most fascinating.

6 – The Sacred Cenote / Cenote Sagrado

The Sacred Cenote is a large natural sinkhole that was of great importance to the Mayans – it is thought to have been used for both religious and ceremonial purposes.

Mayan legend says that the gods created the cenote as a way to provide water for the people of Chichen Itza. Cenote Sagrado was also used as a place to offer human sacrifices.

The Mayans believed that cenotes were portals to the underworld, and that they held great power. Offerings to the Gods were often made here in order to appease them and prevent disaster from striking.

NOTE: Swimming is forbidden at the cenotes inside Chichen Itza archeological site (they’re considered to be sacred cenotes). Moreover, there’s literally no way in or out of this particular cenote – and this is one of the reasons why the Mayans would throw people there.

7 – Cenote Ik Kil

Although not part of Chichen Itza, Cenote Ik Kil is relatively close to the Sacred Cenote and is also a pretty place to visit – with quite a gruesome past, if I may say. Ik Kil Cenote is thought to have been used as a place to sacrifice children. The Mayans believed that sacrificing children would please the Gods and bring rain to the dry land. Cenote Ik Kil is also home to a variety of Mayan artefacts that have been found at the bottom of the cenote such as pottery, jewellery, and even human remains.

To get there, you can take a collectivo taxi at the main road towards Valladolid. The entrance to Ik Kil Cenote is only 7 minutes away by car. And because this cenote is not part of the archeological complex, swimming is allowed. There’s a taco restaurant on-site, as well as lockers and changing rooms, all making this cenote the perfect spot to refresh after visiting Chichen Itza!

Cenote Ik Kil entrance fee: 100 MXN (5 US$)

RELATED READ: If you want to read more about the most famous cenotes such as Cenote SuyTun, as well as some of my favourite hidden gems near Tulum, here’s my dedicated post: 21 Best Cenotes in Tulum and How To Visit Them

Of course, there are numerous other notable things to see at Chichén Itzá such as Las Monjas, The Ossuary or La Iglesia, but the ones above are definitely the highlights. For a complete list of Chichen Itza ruins, click here to access the official website.

Best way to visit Chichen Itza

Chichen Itza Temple Ruins Mexico

There are two main ways of visiting this place: you can either join a guided tour or visit Chichen Itza without a tour.

1 – Guided tour Chichen Itza

If you’re looking to visit the ancient ruins of Chichen Itza, the easiest way to do so is by joining a tour. Tours depart from all hotels along the Riviera Maya, from Cancun down to Tulum. There are also lots of tours available from Merida.

There are many different guided tours available, some will bring you to visit Chichen Itza via tour buses (and some other attractions as well if you choose to), others you can simply join on arrival and they will help you to learn more about the rich Mayan history. You just need to find the one that fits you best! My recommendation would be to join a day trip tour that offers transportation as well.

Guided tour Chichen Itza

Here are some of my top hand-picked options, check them out to find the best Chichen Itza tour for you and your group:

FROM RIVIERA MAYA

FROM CANCUN

FROM TULUM

FROM MERIDA

2 – Visiting Chichen Itza on your own

Visiting Chichen Itza on your own

You can definitely enjoy the Chichen Itza site on your own without a guide, you just need to be in charge of transportations yourself! Don’t worry, I’ll explain everything below.

HOW TO GET TO CHICHEN ITZA

Chichen Itza is halfway between the tourist resorts of Cancun and Yucatan’s capital and largest city, Merida. Both of these destinations have airports, but Cancun has by far the best international flight connections. Once arrived, you have the following options to get to Chichen Itza:

RENTAL CAR

Hiring a rental car is the best way to go. You’ll have the freedom to explore Chichen Itza independently at your own pace and make any stops along the way. The journey from Merida or Cancun will take between two or three hours, but don’t worry, the roads are in good condition and it’s perfectly safe to drive around Mexico. It costs around 70 US$ to rent a car per day.

Distances:

ADO BUS

Another option is to take an ADO bus. There are regular ADO buses from both Cancun and Merida to Chichen Itza. ADO buses drop you off by the main entrance, but be aware that you’ll be limited on departure times. Be sure to book tickets in advance if you are day tripping. For example, an ADO bus ride from Cancun to Chichen Itza takes 3 hours and costs around 9 US$. The buses depart from the central bus station.

COLLECTIVO TAXI

This is a shared taxi service in Mexico. The price for a shared ride from Valladolid to Chichen Itza is around 2 US$.

TIP: If you want to visit this place on your own, I recommend this 8 US$ Self-Guided Tour with Audio Narration & Map that will definitely come in handy!

TIP #2: If you want to visit by rental car, make sure to rent one in Cancun or Tulum, as Valladolid (the closest city to Chichen Itza) doesn’t have many options.

My top tips for visiting Chichen Itza, Mexico

tips for visiting Chichen Itza, Mexico

Here are some extra tips for visiting that you should definitely know before going. I learned all these after I visited Chichen Itza myself!

GET THERE EARLY

This is probably a no-brainer and a piece of advice that’s applicable to all famous attractions around the world – but still! If you want to get in before the gates of Chichen Itza open, you can buy this early entry ticket which allows you to enter before the official 8.00 AM opening time. This is perfect to beat the crowds and get some unobstructed photos of the Mayan Ruins. These tickets need to be booked in advance.

BE PREPARED FOR HOT, HOT HEAT

Another perk to getting to Chichen Itza early is that you can avoid the worst of the midday sun. Regardless of your arrival time, I strongly recommend you come prepared with sunscreen and lots of drinking water.

BRING A HAT

Because the entire archeological site is open, there are few spots with shade and you’ll be walking around a lot, so I definitely recommend bringing a hat, cap or a sun umbrella.

BRING CASH

In case you don’t buy your ticket online beforehand, you’ll have to pay for it in cash at the entrance. Same applies if you want to eat on-site or buy some souvenirs, so it’s always a good idea to have some cash on you.

IT’S A JUNGLE OUT THERE

The site is literally located in the jungle and it covers a large area, so it is important to wear appropriate clothing (light cotton) and footwear (keyword: comfortable for walking!). And don’t forget about mosquito spray for the bugs – very important!

Mexico Maya Chichen Itza Kukulkan

CHECK THE TIME

Cancun and Quintana Roo are 1 hour ahead of Chichen Itza from October to April. So if your visit falls in one of these months, make sure you know what time is at the site.

ABOUT PARKING

There’s an official, secured parking lot at Chichen Itza, so you don’t have to park your car randomly on the side of the road. Parking is 80 MXN / 4 US$.

TOILETS

There are toilets at the entrance, as well as close to the main pyramid.

LEAVE THE TRIPOD AT HOME

Tripods are banned from Chichen Itza ruins, so make sure you leave it at home to save you having to pointlessly lug it around the archaeological site. If you really DO want/need to bring your tripod, you need to contact them in advance to arrange for a permit. 

NO CLIMBING THE TEMPLES

Stick to the rules, kids! This may be an impressive structure, but it’s forbidden to climb the temples while visiting Chichen Itza.

DON’T FORGET YOUR SWIMWEAR

In case you want to visit Cenote Ik Kil or other swimmable cenotes near Chichén Itzá during your trip, don’t forget to bring your bathing suit. The best thing about the cenotes, besides their natural beauty? You get to cool off by jumping in!

FAQs about visiting Chichén Itzá

FAQs about visiting Chichén Itzá

I think I told you about all of the most important things to keep in mind when visiting this site, but if you still have some unanswered questions, here are some frequently asked questions that I answered to myself:

How long does it take to visit Chichén Itzá?

You should reserve at least 2-3 hours to spend inside Chichen Itza. Guided tours usually allow for 2.5 hours inside the site and in the last half an hour you get to explore the place by yourself. This is not enough time to see everything there, but you’ll tick the most important spots. If you really want to see as much as possible or simply take your time during your visit, you may consider reserving 4-5 hours for this. I would also recommend you reserve some separate time to visit the nearby Cenote Ik Kil – definitely worth it! Some guided tours will stop there in their itinerary, but you can also take a collectivo taxi there.

Do I need a guide for Chichen Itza, Mexico?

Not necessarily. I recommend booking a guided tour only if you don’t want to be in charge of transportation/planning the itinerary yourself or if you want a knowledgeable local to tell you information and fun facts about the site and Maya people as well. I think this will surely add to the experience, but it really depends on your preference! You can find my hand-picked guided tour recommendations in this section above.

Can I visit Chichen Itza on my own?

Yes, you definitely can! You just need to do your own research beforehand, read a bit about the history of Chichen Itza and the meaning of the place and then find the best means of transportation for you and your group. You can get there by Collectivo shared taxi, ADO bus or rented car.

Can I stay at Chichén Itzá?

Most tourists do it as a day trip, but if you want to spend longer visiting Chichen Itza or want to be one of the first people inside the gates in the morning, there are several hotels within walking distance of the archaeological site.

These hotels are located on the road leading into the ancient Mayan ruins and have limited capacity, so they can often be sold out and over priced. Sure, in terms of convenience, these hotels can’t be beat. But honestly, you will find a much better deal in the nearby colonial town, Valladolid. And while you’re there, you can visit Ek Balam too, some pretty underrated Mayan ruins near Chichen Itza.

Click here to find all hotels available near Chichen Itza for the time of your visit.

Can I climb the pyramid at Chichen Itza?

Sadly, no. Climbing the pyramid has become forbidden since 2006, when a woman slipped, fell and died while she was making her way down. The steps are really steep and they’ve also become very slippery over all these years of wear and tear so, really, this is for your own good.

When was Chichen Itza built?

Although archeologists are unsure when exactly the building of Chichen Itza began, it is said that it was either in the early 400s A.D. or in the middle of the 5th century. Either way, this place is more than 1.500 years old!

When was Chichen Itza built

What does “Chichén Itzá” even mean?

In Mayan language, Chichén Itzá means “at the mouth of the well of the Itza”. Still confused, right? Itza was an ethnic group of Maya people that had great power in the northern part of Mexico’s Yucatan peninsula, where this impressive ancient city was located. What’s up with the well, though? Well, (hehe) there were a number of precious underground rivers in this area that served as the main water source for this city. And we all know that water was crucial in the development of such a powerful empire! It is said that these rivers created the perfect setting for the rise of Chichen Itza, hence their recognition in the naming, too.

In the end, is Chichen Itza worth it?

If you ask me, yes! There are some famous attractions around the world that have left me disappointed (such as the Da Nang Golden Bridge in Vietnam, for example) and I would recommend against them, but a trip to Chichen Itza and seeing El Castillo pyramid is definitely something to do at least once in your lifetime if you are lucky enough to set foot in Mexico. After all, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site, one of the New Seven Wonders of the world and an impressively mysterious place that still tells us tales about some very interesting past worlds and civilizations. 

So there you have it! That was my complete guide to visiting Chichen Itza, from the interesting history of the ancient Mayans to the incredible temples you can see at this sacred site, starting with El Castillo. 

In this post I’ve included the best Chichen Itza tours, a breakdown of all the Chichen Itza ruins worth seeing, the best time to visit and ways of travelling to the place, a little bit of the history of Chichen Itza and much, much more. Hopefully my best tips for visiting Chichen Itza will be useful to you!

If you had any doubt before, hopefully I have convinced you that you need to add this incredible Mayan ruin to your itinerary when visiting Mexico. And if you want to read about some other incredible places to visit and things to do in Mexico, I recommend clicking here to find all my articles on the subject.

xoxo,

Melissa

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23 BEST MELBOURNE CAFES TO VISIT IN 2023

Melbourne has some seriously great cafés, so much so that it’s almost hard to choose where you should spend your Sunday brunch. From little roasters in the ‘burbs to spots along Chapel Street for an iconic Melbourne vibe – there are a ton of choices when it comes to great coffee and food! I’ve compiled all my top café picks for this year into this handy blog post – I can guarantee that sipping on one of these cuppas will have you banishing those morning blues right away.


Quick breakdown

If you’re in a hurry, I’ve put together this quick breakdown which will easily guide you to just what you may be looking for in a Melbourne café. Let’s get that caffeine in you!

Best in the CBD – Higher Ground
Best lunch menu – Top Paddock
Best for cool ambience – Monk Bodhi Dharma
Best cafe for smashed avo – Proud Mary
Best for sweet treats – Lune Croissanterie
Best for a vegan menu – Monk Bodhi Dharma
My personal favourite – St. Ali Coffee Roasters


23 Amazing cafes in Melbourne, Australia – these coffee shops are GATW approved!

Exploring the best cafés in Melbourne is a great way to start any morning! Caffine-lovers will be delighted by what’s on offer in Australia’s coffee capital, ranging from iconic institutions to tiny, tucked away coffee roaster spots. I’ve put together a list of 27 amazing cafés in Melbourne – perfect for early birds, late risers and all those in between.

Whether you’re just stopping by or calling Australia home, each one of these brew houses has something special to offer every time. With great food on the menu and expertly crafted coffee, they provide a real taste of the local scene – so why not visit one today?!

Cafes in the CBD

1. Higher Ground

Get ready to experience some of Melbourne’s cool cafe vibes with Higher Ground! This chic spot from the masters behind Top Paddock and The Kettle Black is serving up drool-worthy dishes with it’s all day menu. Located in the heart of the CBD, this huge high-ceilinged restaurant invites you for brunch or lunch time dining in style.

Higher Ground cafe

MY FAVOURITE DISHES:

Cafe Opening Hours:

Address: 650 Little Bourke St, Melbourne

For the gram: highergroundmelbourne


2. Industry Beans

Melbourne’s foodie scene has been elevated with Industry Beans! This cool cafe is a must-visit for its stunning seasonal brunch menu, which includes scrumptious, drool-worthy delights (see below for my top recommendations!). Plus the aromatic brews from their boutique roaster will hit those morning pick me up spots every time you visit!

Industry Beans - Melbourne Cafe

MY FAVOURITE DISHES:

Cafe Opening Hours:

Address: 345 Little Collins St, Melbourne VIC 3000

For the gram: industrybeans


3. Dukes Coffee Roasters

Dukes is one of the best coffee experiences out there. They take caffeine seriously and their coffee laboratory is proof of that – Dukes’ mission is to bring forth an amazing experience for coffee enthusiasts. From perfectly roasted specialty blends to different types of brewing methods, Dukes has become a trusted name among caffeine lovers in Melbourne. Everything from the passionate baristas who create delicious lattes to the quirky cafe decor makes this coffee shop experience unique.

Dukes cafe Melbourne

MY FAVOURITE DISHES:

Cafe Opening Hours:

Address: 247 Flinders Ln, Melbourne VIC 3000

For the gram: dukes_coffee


4. Otherside Coffee

If you’re looking for an exceptional cafe experience in Melbourne, you’ll want to check out Otherside. Located near the banks of the Yarra River, this city staple serves up freshly-roasts from a range of local suppliers, giving you the best possible brew each and every time. Add to that some mouthwatering sweet treats and breakfast items – from homemade pastries to quiches and avocado bagels – and you’ve got yourself an unbeatable morning pitstop.

Dukes - top cafes in Melbourne

MY FAVOURITE DISHES:

Cafe Opening Hours:

Address: Shop 3/188 Little Collins St, Melbourne VIC 3000


5. Axil Coffee Roasters

Stop by Axil Coffee Roasters for a unique brunch experience! Their cool and contemporary warehouse-like venue has an extensive menu plus hand-sourced espresso made from single origins bean. But that’s not all – you can also watch their expert roasting skills in action while you dine.

Axil - top cafes in Melbourne

MY FAVOURITE DISHES:

Cafe Opening Hours:

Address: Bourke St. – but also multiple locations in the city

For the gram: axilcoffeeroasters


6. Maker Coffee

If you’re looking for the perfect spot to kick-back and enjoy a truly unique cuppa, then Maker is the perfect place to be. With a hip, artsy atmosphere reminiscent of the city itself, the cafe has earned steady praise among locals and tourists alike. From its simple yet refined menu to its quality service, Maker provides a warm and inviting experience where you’ll get more than just your caffeine fix.

Maker cafe, Melbourne.

MY FAVOURITE DISHES:

Cafe Opening Hours:

Address: 387 Little Bourke St, Melbourne VIC 3000

For the gram: makercoffeemelbourne


7. The League of Honest Coffee

This local café takes pride in sourcing their beans from around the world, bringing a unique twist to the classic Australian flat white and latte. Whether you come for a brew, the pastries, or just to chill and get some work done, this café is set apart by attention to detail: their staff are barista-certified so your drinks will always turn out great and they’re often running latte art competitions and interactive events.

The League of Honest Coffee

MY FAVOURITE DISHES:

Cafe Opening Hours:

Address: 8 Exploration Ln, Melbourne VIC 3000

For the gram: leagueofhonestcoffee


8. Little Rough

Located in the heart of Melbourne’s CBD, Little Rough cafe is an absolute must-visit for foodies! The café has a unique rustic charm – from their warm colours to re-purposed furniture, this place is certainly not your average spot. They serve up delicious coffee, tea and light meals every day, all of which are freshly made in-house. If you’re looking for something special though, go ahead and try their famous homemade maple thyme hotcake – the perfect brunch option!

Little Rough cafe

MY FAVOURITE DISHES:

Cafe Opening Hours:

Address: 12 Drewery Ln, Melbourne VIC 3000

For the gram: littleroguecoffee


9. Lune Croissanterie

Lune Croissanterie is an absolute must-visit destination for anyone who loves pastries! Known for their delightful creations and innovative flavours, this charming bakery has been part of the local cafe circuit since 2009 and built a reputation for having the best croissants, some day, in the world! Daily queues for a croissant seem to go down the road! But don’t just take my word for it – it’s something you will have to decide for yourself!

Lune Croissanterie cafe

MY FAVOURITE DISHES:

Cafe Opening Hours:

Address:Shop 16/161 Collins St, Melbourne VIC 3000

For the gram: lunecroissant


Cafes in Prahran

10. Tall Timber

With its rustic-chic décor and welcoming vibe, Tall Timber the perfect place to grab brunch in South Yarra. They live up to their motto of “Good food. Good coffee. Good people.” with a menu filled of delicious crowd pleasers – !

Tall timber cafe, Melbourne

 MY FAVOURITE DISHES:

Cafe Opening Hours:

Address: 60 Commercial Rd, Prahran

For the gram: tall_timber


11. Fourth Chapter

Fourth Chapter’s all-day breakfast makes for the perfect brunch spot. With savoury sweet potato nachos to Golden Gaytime waffles and soy-glazed barramundi, there is a meal perfect for you to choose. But it isn’t only their diverse menu that will have you coming back – the cafe is bright and breezy with hanging plants surrounding the tables – such a vibe.

Fourth Chapter cafe

MY FAVOURITE DISHES:

Cafe Opening Hours:

Address: 385 High St, Prahran

For the gram: fourth_chapter


12. Oscar Cooper

Oscar Cooper serves up more than just good food and hot brews – they care about the local community too! Every dish you order helps support farmers, producers, and suppliers nearby. Plus, this café isn’t just a great place to eat, they also offer catering for events – so keep this one in your back pocket!

Oscar Cooper cafe

MY FAVOURITE DISHES:

Cafe Opening Hours:

Address: 160 Greville St, Prahran

For the gram: oscarcoopermelb


13. Two Birds One Stone

At Two Birds One Stone, you’re sure to be swept away in an atmosphere of sophisticated homeliness! The whitewashed walls, cosy booths and quirky custom lighting help set the stage for a delicious dining experience in South Yarra. This cafe works for breakfast, brunch or lunch. If it was open in the evenings, I would suggest it for dinner too!

Two Birds One Stone cafe

MY FAVOURITE DISHES:

Cafe Opening Hours:

Address: 12 Claremont St, South Yarra

For the gram: twobirdsonestonecafe


Cafes in South Melbourne

14. The Kettle Black

If the usual Sunday brunch has lost its sparkle, head to The Kettle Black in South Melbourne for a totally transformed dining experience! Set inside an elegant white terrace house, this restaurant offers gourmet options that don’t compromise on flavour – think scrambled eggs with dreamy kangaroo cured right in-house and velvety polenta porridge topped off with burnt maple. Time to take your Sundays up a notch!

The Kettle Black, Melbourne

 MY FAVOURITE DISHES:

Cafe Opening Hours:

Address: 50 Albert Rd, South Melbourne

For the gram: kettleblackcafe


15. St Ali Coffee Roasters

St Ali roastery in Melbourne has been a staple of the city’s coffee scene since 2009. Specialising in ethically sourced Arabica beans, their baristas are truly masters of the craft. As someone who loves exploring Melbourne’s vibrant café culture, I have to say that St Ali is my absolute favourite. From flavourful brews and delicious food, these folks know how to make a memorable experience for all of their loyal customers. Plus, they back it up with excellent customer service! If you ever find yourself in Melbourne and want an amazing cup of java, definitely swing by St Ali and check out the menu.

best cafes in Melbourne

MY FAVOURITE DISHES:

Cafe Opening Hours:

Address: 12-18 Yarra Pl, South Melbourne VIC 3205

For the gram: st_ali


16.Padre coffee

Using ethically sourced beans from around the world and roasting them in-house, this independent roaster bring out the unique flavours of each bean with their specialised methods. Organic and specialty grade coffee beans and recipe-controlled extraction has resulted in some of the best cups of coffee you can find. From single origin coffees to milk-based drinks, it’s no wonder Padre Coffee Melbourne has become a destination for coffee connoisseurs across the country. You can find Padre Coffee while you shop in South Melbourne Market, down a market lane.

Padre coffee, Melbourne

MY FAVOURITE DISHES:

Cafe Opening Hours:

Address: South Melbourne Market, 33/322-326 Coventry St, South Melbourne VIC 3205

For the gram: padrecoffee


17. Clement coffee

With its blend of old world charm and contemporary flair, this is the perfect spot for enjoying your favourite cup of joe. Open early to catch the morning rush, Clement offers freshly roasted coffee that always delivers a smooth but flavourful hit. All of the beans used are hand-picked from farms around the continent and then sourced locally to ensure a high quality cup every time. The cafe also has an amazing variety of pastries, cakes and dessert, so everyone can find something to eat to satisfy their sweet tooth.

Clement coffee

MY FAVOURITE DISHES:

Cafe Opening Hours:

Address: Unit 89, South Melbourne Market, Cecil St, South Melbourne VIC 3205

For the gram: clementcoffee


Cafes in St Kilda

18. Galleon Cafe

Galleon Cafe is a beloved spot among locals in St Kilda. Here you can unwind and tuck into tasty eats while taking in the charming decor of retro furniture, mismatched vintage pieces, and classic compact booths – all creating a wonderfully cosy atmosphere! This is a great café for brunch, with all your breakfast food favourites on the menu.

Galleon Cafe, Melbourne.

MY FAVOURITE DISHES:

Cafe Opening Hours:

Address: 9 Carlisle St, St Kilda VIC 3182

For the gram: galleoncafestkilda


19. Batch Espresso

Who says you can’t bring a bit of the New Zealander lifestyle to St Kilda? Certainly not Jason Chan, Kiwi owner of this retro cafe! Whether it’s the top menu or his down-to-earth attitude he infuses into every interaction, locals keep coming back to this brunch spot for more. Stop by for a meal – you’ll see what all the fuss is about!

Batch Espresso cafem

MY FAVOURITE DISHES:

Cafe Opening Hours:

Address: 320 Carlisle St, Balaclava

For the gram: batchespresso


20. Monk Bodhi Dharma

Experience a unique take on coffee and ice cream at Monk Bodhi Dharma in Balaclava. Set in the back of a charming carpark, it’s more than just your average cafe – with its inviting atmosphere, catching up with friends here can easily stretch into an all-day affair. Treat yourself to some delicious vegan treats and make it one for the books!

Monk Bodhi Dharma, Melbourne

MY FAVOURITE DISHES:

Cafe Opening Hours:

Address: Rear, 202 Carlisle St, Balaclava

For the gram: monkbodhidharma


Cafes in Fitzroy and Collingwood

21. Stagger Lee’s

Stagger Lee is a Melbourne best-kept secret! Located in a 1920s warehouse, this cool Fitzroy hangout has quickly become the hottest spot to grab a beverage amongst Melbournians. The atmosphere is upbeat and always lively; the music here never disappoints, and the cafés menu will leave you satisfied.

Stagger Lee’s Cafe

MY FAVOURITE DISHES:

Cafe Opening Hours:

Address: 276 Brunswick St, Fitzroy VIC 3065

For the gram: staggerleesfitzroy


22. Proud Mary

This cozy spot boasts hipster vibes, from it’s delicious single origin coffee to its scrumptious house-made pastries and menu items made with seasonal ingredients sourced from local farmers markets. The food is consistently excellent, but if you’re looking for something special, treat yourself to a plate of their famous Smashed Avocado. The atmosphere at Proud Mary is relaxed and playful; people always seem friendly and chatting away—it’s no wonder the cafe has become a popular hangout amongst locals and tourists alike.

Proud Mary Cafe

MY FAVOURITE DISHES:

Opening Hours:

Address: 172 Oxford St, Collingwood VIC 3066

For the gram: proudmarycoffee


Cafés in Richmond

23. Top Paddock

Arguably one of the most popular venues in Melbourne, this chic cafe offers stunningly presented and delicious seasonal produce perfect for any meal. The ever-changing menu is always sure to tantalise your taste buds with its full-on flavours. While the food alone is worth visiting for, the ambiance inside cannot be overlooked – from the warm colours of exposed brick walls to mismatched furniture, you can’t help but feel relaxed in its characterful features.

Top Paddock, Melbourne

 MY FAVOURITE DISHES:

Cafe Opening Hours:

Address: 658 Church St, Richmond

For the gram: toppaddock


So, there you have it, my list of the 27 most incredible coffee shops to visit while in Melbourne!

Whether you’re on the hunt for breakfast, brunch or lunch, these cafés have drool worthy food options and perfectly crafted coffees. The bakery at Lune served up some of the worlds finest croissants, and the eggs benedict served at Galleon cafe is simply * chefs kiss * !

If you’re looking for coffee connoisseur quality, you find it on the menu at Higher Ground. Or for fancier food, Top Paddock makes Melbourne proud.

Basically, when it comes to breakfast cafés, Melbourne has something for all of us coffee fanatics out there!

xoxo

Melissa


What else do you need for your Melbourne Trip?

8 Best Beach Clubs in Tulum, Mexico + Free Public Beaches

Tulum, Mexico is one of the BEST travel destinations in the world, especially if all you’re planning to do is lay on the beach, catch some sun and sip a cocktail at a beach club! If this sounds like heaven to you, in the article below I will tell you all about my favourite 8 best beach clubs in Tulum, as well as some other useful info.

At the beginning of the year I spent two entire weeks in Tulum and I never got bored of the beaches and beach clubs there. There’s something for everyone and beach clubs are a great way to spend the day in Tulum! Most of them have restaurants and bars (and swings!), where you can stay all day and soak up the sun. Many of them also have pools, so you can take a dip when the ocean is too hot or rough.

Okay, let’s get into it!

Practical info about beach clubs in Tulum

Practical info about the best beach clubs in Tulum

Before sharing my list of the best beach clubs in Tulum with you, here are some practical things you need to know before visiting:

RELATED READ: 8 Unmissable Things to Do in Tulum, Mexico – Complete Guide & Tips

8 Best beach clubs in Tulum, Mexico

Here are my favourite 8 beach clubs in Tulum that I have personally been to:

1 – Papaya Playa Beach Club

https://www.instagram.com/p/CNEA3KEDJSx/

Papaya Playa Project is DEFINITELY one of the most famous beach clubs in Tulum – and it’s gotten even bigger and better after they were closed during COVID-19 for redevelopment and upgrades. Now, this place looks like a piece of paradise and it offers anything you can think of: world-class design, famous DJs, a full moon party once per month, incredible food and cocktails, as well as a great location in the northern beach strip, close to Tulum Ruins.

As with most beach clubs in Tulum, Papaya Playa Project also has an incredible eco-hotel; here, you can stay in luxurious beach huts, cottages and cabins with unforgettable views of the Caribbean Sea or the surrounding jungle!

Reservations are recommended, especially during weekends when everybody wants to attend the Papaya Playa Project parties with live DJs and bands!

ENTRANCE FEE: 30 US$

MINIMUM SPEND: 50 US$ per person during the week and 100 US$ on weekends

RESERVATION REQUIRED: yes

ADDRESS: Find it on Google Maps here.

2 – Coco Tulum Beach Club

https://www.instagram.com/p/COQptr8Hzhg/

MY TAKE: I actually stayed at Coco Tulum during my last trip to Tulum, which means I got to chill at their beach club daily – and I enjoyed it a lot!

Coco Tulum is another gorgeous place on my list of the busiest beach clubs in Tulum – and with good reason! This great beach club is hands-down one of the most Instagrammable spots in Tulum with a boho-chic, white-washed design, scattered with pretty rope swings and hammocks too.

And when the night comes, that’s when the parties start, with electronic music and lots of dancing and the ocean as your backdrop. Did I mention this is also one of the most elite beach clubs around?

One thing to know from the start: everybody that has been to Coco Tulum is talking about their fish and seafood tacos! They’re absolutely incredible and they alone are worth the trip to this place. Plus, you can literally never get bored at Coco Tulum, as they offer plenty of activities such as sauna, yoga and guided tours as well.

By the way, I also recommend arriving early, as this place gets full really fast!

ENTRANCE FEE: no

MINIMUM SPEND: 25 US$ per person, making it one of the most budget-friendly beach clubs in Tulum

RESERVATION REQUIRED: yes

ADDRESS: Find it on Google Maps here.

3 – Cinco Tulum Beach Club

Cinco Tulum Instagram Spots
Cinco Tulum Beach

If you’re a fan of boho-chic decor and laid-back vibes, Cinco Tulum must be right up your alley! With great food and comfy beanbags, lounge chairs, sunbeds and even canvas tents right on the beach, Cinco is the perfect spot to spend a relaxing day right on the beach.

Make sure to not expect much, though, as Cinco Tulum has a pretty basic set-up with beach chairs and no pool. In case you’re looking for luxury and sophistication, it may be best to check out one of the other places on this list instead, such as Taboo or Nomade. I went to Cinco for lunch and I enjoyed it!

One of the best things about Cinco is that it’s pretty affordable, especially if you compare it to the classic Tulum prices or the rates charged by other beach clubs in this list. And if you want to linger for longer and you’re a glamping fan, you can also spend the night in one of their luxury tents!

ENTRANCE FEE: no

MINIMUM SPEND: 50 US$ per person on weekends

RESERVATION REQUIRED: yes

ADDRESS: Find it on Google Maps here.

RELATED READ: Where to Stay in Tulum, Mexico – Downtown vs Hotel Zone

4 – Taboo Tulum Beach Club

https://www.instagram.com/p/Cd4QTVBrhVc/

If you’re craving some good ol’ Mediterranean cuisine after tons of tacos and margaritas, Taboo is here for a change of scenery! Besides their incredibly delicious and good-looking menu (they take food to the start of art, quite literally), Taboo also has a glamorous design and fairytale-like atmosphere.

Taboo Tulum also has a pool and lounge chairs and everything else you might desire for a real luxury experience – this means, of course, that the prices will match.

And, most importantly, if you want to spend the day here, you must make a reservation on their website beforehand, otherwise this place will be fully booked, especially if you’re visiting during high season.

ENTRANCE FEE: Taboo has a different payment system – a sunbed here is 120 US$, but you’ll get to spend 71 US$ of them for food and drinks

MINIMUM SPEND: no

RESERVATION REQUIRED: yes

ADDRESS: Find it on Google Maps here.

5 – Vagalume Tulum Beach Club

https://www.instagram.com/p/CRWXcS-JYtU/

Vagalume is one of the newest places around and definitely one of the best beach clubs in Tulum! This place simply looks amazing, with a beautiful little bridge held by a cement hand that connects the lounge area to the pool. Speaking of the lounge area, Vagalume has a beautiful Moroccan decor with wooden chairs, macrame and colourful rugs.

As for parties, this beach club is definitely the place to be. They have live shows, DJs and bands all week long, so no chance to get bored here, as you’ll be experiencing something new every day.

NOTE: Unfortunately, Vagalume has quite a reputation of adding extra drinks to your bill or making money-related mistakes. We don’t know why, maybe they do it on purpose or maybe it happens by mistake when the beach club gets really crowded, but it never hurts to pay a little extra caution when you receive the bill at the end of the day!

ENTRANCE FEE: no

MINIMUM SPEND: 150 US$ per person

RESERVATION REQUIRED: yes

ADDRESS: Find it on Google Maps here.

6 – Nomade Tulum Beach Club

https://www.instagram.com/p/CYeQxXEL1c7/

Nomade is really famous as being one of the most gorgeous boutique hotels in Tulum – and their beach club doesn’t disappoint either! So if you’re looking for an upscale place to spend the day without a care in the world, this beach club is definitely the place to be.

Some of the highlights at Nomade Beach Club include their incredible cocktails, the food (especially the fish and seafood at La Popular, their on-site beachfront restaurant – definitely a must-try!), the private beach, outdoor tents, swings and more. Although it looks REALLY sophisticated, Nomade has mid-range prices, which is also a plus.

NOTE: Nomade is a cashless hotel/place, so make sure you don’t forget your credit card at home.

ENTRANCE FEE: no

MINIMUM SPEND: 100 US$ per person

RESERVATION REQUIRED: yes

ADDRESS: Find it on Google Maps here.

7 – Casa Malca

https://www.instagram.com/p/CfWjyvsOyhD/

Casa Malca is quite different from all the beach clubs I’ve mentioned in this list. In fact, Casa Malca is not just a place where you can sit in a sunbed with a cocktail in your hand, but one of the unmissable tourist attractions in Tulum with historical importance!

Casa Malca was once Pablo Escobar’s mansion, now transformed into a real work of art. You’ll find impressive art installations and artworks here, as well as Instagrammable corners, swings and a beach club section as well. They also have a rooftop terrace and no less than three pools and three restaurants… Do I need to say more?!

Casa Malca Beach Club also has comfy beach beds, hammocks, and a tropical vibe that you’ll surely love, making it perfect for a full day of laying in the sun.

ENTRANCE FEE: 160 US$ for a day pass, out of which 110 US$ can be used as a food and drink credit

MINIMUM SPEND: no

RESERVATION REQUIRED: yes

ADDRESS: Find it on Google Maps here

RELATED READ: 23 Best Tulum Instagram Spots: A Photo Guide

8 – Ziggy’s Beach Club

https://www.instagram.com/p/CeUH9VhuJLr/

Last but definitely not least on my list, Ziggy’s Beach Club is another cool place and one of the best beach clubs in Tulum in my experience! Another cool thing that I loved here is that they open at 7 AM, way before all the other beach clubs on my list, making it the perfect spot to drink your coffee before jumping on one of their sun loungers with a coconut cocktail in your hand. Their special breakfast menu is simply delicious as well!

What makes Ziggy such an amazing place is their eclectic schedule of events (starting at 7.30 PM daily) that differ everyday. Activities may include dancing, tequila or Mexican wine tasting, traditional live music, live seafood cooking – it’s literally impossible to get bored here, regardless of how long you’re staying! One small thing to note, though – there’s going to be a small fee if you want to join these special events.

FUN FACT: Ziggy’s Beach Club also offers solar chargers for your phone, which I think is super nice!

ENTRANCE FEE: no

MINIMUM SPEND: 50 US$ per person

RESERVATION REQUIRED: yes

ADDRESS: Find it on Google Maps here

8 Other notable Tulum beach clubs worth checking out

beaches in tulum mexico
Tulum Beach

Okay, now that you know all about the 8 best beach clubs in Tulum where I used to spend my days, it’s time for a little extra list of places that I didn’t get to visit, but I’d surely love to on my next trip to this destination:

1 – LA EUFEMIA

La Eufemia is one of the top Tulum beach clubs for many people and I’ve heard a lot of good things about this place. First of all, they don’t have a minimum spend, which is absolutely amazing, making it one of the best places for people on a tight budget. One of the most interesting things here is their celebrity-inspired furniture, as in… you can sit at the table with Amy Winehouse! Ah, last but not least, La Eufemia is well-known as being the best taco place in Tulum!

2 – HABITAS BEACH CLUB

Habitas is known as being one of the most beautiful Tulum beach clubs since forever! They have plush lounge chairs, sun loungers, a private white sand beach that’s absolutely gorgeous, pools with an ocean view, an open-air restaurant and more. And if you’re an interior design lover, you simply have to take a look around the entire property, you’ll be in awe at everything they’ve done there!

https://www.instagram.com/p/CYFTWfjPAM-/

3 – PLAYA PARAISO BEACH CLUB

If you’re planning on visiting Tulum Ruins, you’ll surely want to recharge the batteries in a chill spot nearby… which is exactly Playa Paraiso Beach Club, located on, you guessed it, Playa Paraiso Beach! One of the best things about this place is their extra-comfortable beach beds where you can relax and unwind under the palm trees. The food is excellent, there are snorkelling possibilities right near the beach and you’ll only pay 5 US$ for a basic sun lounger. What more to wish for?

4 – MIA BEACH CLUB

If you’re looking for one of the best upscale beach clubs in Tulum with affordable prices (is that even possible?!) and delicious food, then you’ll surely fall in love with Mia Beach Club. And if you’re a wine lover too, there’s no better place for you, as they have more than 300 labels of wine from all around the world – how awesome is that?!

The minimum spending limit here is 20 US$ per person and you get free beach beds if you reach it, which is definitely in the budget range for Tulum! Oh, one last thing: if you visit, make sure you don’t miss their fine dining Mexican restaurant: Mia Restaurant!

https://www.instagram.com/p/CeOpN01FPpS/?hl=en

5 – SELINA BEACH CLUB TULUM

I’m talking about Selina right after Mia Restaurant and Beach club because there’s actually a partnership between the two and they’re now located in the same spot – which means you can check out both of them on the same day if you want!

Selina is up high on the list of Instagrammable places in Tulum, so you can expect to find some gorgeous decor here. Selina has comfortable day beds, a cocktail beach bar, great music to chill on and lots more. While you’re there, make sure you don’t miss “The Next” – one of the best photo ops in Tulum!

6 – MINA

MINA is another one of those places where you can enjoy some incredible food with the view of the ocean. They have a fresh seafood and steak restaurant where you can see your food being cooked at an open-air pit on the private white sand beach – which is an interesting experience by itself!

https://www.instagram.com/p/CSqEpEGMCQA/

7 – HIP HOTEL BEACH CLUB

God, please stop me from making a pun about how hip the Hip Beach Club is… okay, I guess that didn’t work! Jokes aside, this beach club has delicious cocktails, a seafood-inspired menu and lots of comfortable spots on the beach where you can sit and unwind – or admire the sunset!

8 – AHAU TULUM BEACH CLUB

You may remember Ahau Hotel from my list of 23 Best Tulum Instagram Spots: A Photo Guide, but I didn’t get to tell you all about their beach club yet. Ahau Beach Club is nestled into the green jungle, right near the Mayan ruins. They have a delicious menu and lots of Instagrammable corners (as you might’ve guessed already) that you can enjoy.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CTUorUNLnmr/

RELATED READ: 21 Best Cenotes in Tulum and How To Visit Them

How to get to the beach clubs in Tulum

How to get to the cenotes

Regardless if you’re staying in the Hotel Zone or in Tulum Town, getting to the beach clubs I’ve mentioned above is really easy. You have three main options here:

By bike

Bike rental in Tulum is super affordable (around 10 US$ for an entire day) and really fun. Tulum is a safe spot for biking, with a clear path from town to the beach. Plus, it’s what everything does and it really adds to the entire experience!

By scooter

Scooter rental is also great and it comes with the advantage of getting you around a little bit quicker. The average price for scooter rental in Tulum is around 25 US$ per day.

By taxi

This is, naturally, the most expensive option – especially in Tulum, where prices are sky-rocketing every year! But if this is your only choice, I recommend you make sure you negotiate the fee before you get into the car, otherwise they will just come up with any ridiculous number and hound you until you pay it.

RELATED READ: Cancun vs Playa del Carmen vs Tulum – Which One Should You Choose for Your Travel Style?

Free public beaches in Tulum

8 Unmissable Things to Do in Tulum, Mexico - Complete Guide & Tips

The catch about Tulum is that most of its beaches have become private beaches once luxury hotels and resorts started popping up on the entire strip that is called Zona Hotelera – also known as Tulum’s Hotel Zone. These hotels and beach clubs have “monopolised” the beaches and started charging a fee for access; alternatively, others have set a minimum spend per person which can be as high as 100 US$.

Playa Paraiso, Las Palmas and Playa Ruinas are the only 3 free public access beaches in Tulum.

BUT! Once you’re on the beach, you can walk down the playa and set up camp at any spot – every beach is technically public and not owned by any hotel. Make sure you bring your own towel and some snacks, though.

1 – Playa Paradiso Tulum

Playa Paraiso is definitely one of the most popular beaches in Tulum and the most beautiful free public beach out of all three – which means that, unfortunately, it gets crowded at times! Regardless, it’s an excellent beach for recreational activities – Playa Paraiso has something for everyone!

If you want a place to relax, you can spend your days lounging on the beach or swimming in the crystal clear water. For those who want to explore, there are plenty of ancient ruins and caves to discover nearby. You can also find excellent restaurants and beach bars in the area!

2 – Las Palmas Beach Tulum

Las Palmas Beach is located along Zona Hotelera, right next to numerous famous resorts – only here you won’t have to pay any fee to enjoy the gorgeous white sand and turquoise waters!

This beach is quite small and it has two different zones: a sandy patch and a rocky one, which means you’ll get the best of both worlds. The only downside here is that there are literally no amenities on the beach, so you’ll have to make sure to bring your own towels, beach chairs, food and drinks.

3 – Playa Ruinas / Tulum Ruins Beach

Playa Ruinas is located right near the well-known Mayan ruins in the north of the Hotel Zone. One of the highlights of this beach is the cliff in the northern end, which makes for amazing photo opportunities.

Just like with the other two beaches on this list, it will get crowded quickly (as it’s a free access beach), so I recommend visiting as early in the morning as possible in order to beat the crowds! Again, there are literally no amenities here so you’ll have to be in charge of those, but if you get hungry, there are enough good restaurants nearby.

BONUS: Best beaches near Tulum

Best beaches near Tulum

In case you want to check out some other beaches close to Tulum in the Yucatan Peninsula, here are some beautiful ones to add to your list:

RELATED READ: Complete First Timer’s Guide to Visiting Chichen Itza, Mexico

Aaand this was my complete list of the best beach clubs in Tulum! In this post I’ve told you everything I learned about the 8 amazing beach clubs I visited myself and I’ve also offered you information about 8 other Tulum beach clubs that I didn’t get to visit. In short, I’m absolutely convinced you’ll find THE best beach club for your budget and preferences among my recommendations above!

Tulum is a place that caters to all types of travellers, so regardless if you want to spend your days in a beach bed with some fish tacos and a cocktail in your hand or you want to dance the night away at one of the numerous moon parties with live music, I’m sure you’ll find something for you!

In case you need more information that will help you plan your trip to Tulum, I recommend clicking here to find all my posts about this unique destination. And here you’ll find all my articles about Mexico.

xoxo,

Melissa

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Cancun vs Playa del Carmen vs Tulum – Which One Should You Choose For Your Travel Style?

Are you thinking about taking a trip to Mexico in Latin America? Great choice! Wondering where to choose between Cancun vs Playa del Carmen vs Tulum? That’s an important question, really, that I’m going to cover down below!

With so many amazing places to choose from, it can be tough to decide which destination is right for you. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at Cancun, Playa del Carmen and Tulum – three of Mexico’s most popular travel destinations – and compare the PROs and CONs of each one. By the end of this post, you’ll have a better idea of which location is the best fit for your Mexico itinerary, depending on your travel style!

Quick round-up & practical info

practical info about Cancun vs Playa del Carmen vs Tulum

Although not very far from each other, Cancun, Playa del Carmen and Tulum each offer unique experiences, as well as pretty different advantages and disadvantages.

Main aspects

Here’s a short round-up of the most important aspects you might want to consider before deciding between Cancun vs Playa del Carmen vs Tulum:

 CancunPlaya del CarmenTulum
International airportYesNoNo
BusesYesYesYes
Great beachesYesNot all of themYes
PartiesYesYesYes
Quiet atmosphereNoNoYes
$$$Mid-rangeBudgetExpensive
Do I need a car?MaybeNoMaybe
NatureNoNoYes
Day trip accessibilityYesYesA bit less

Distances

Because Cancun is the only one out of the three that has an International airport, it’ll most likely be the place where you arrive first. And if you don’t decide to make it the base for your trip, you can easily get to both Tulum and Playa del Carmen from there. Playa del Carmen is located right between Cancun and Tulum and, in all honesty, it won’t take you long to reach either of the two destinations. Here are the distances:

And here’s a useful map to see where each of them in located:

Cancun vs Playa del Carmen vs Tulum map

RELATED READ: Complete First Timer’s Guide to Visiting Chichen Itza, Mexico

Recommendations by travel style

And now, before we get into the nitty-gritty of it all, here’s a short round-up of the very best that Cancun, Playa del Carmen and Tulum have to offer, so if you’re short on time you can easily choose where is best for you:

Okay, now let’s get into the details! Time to break down the best and worst bits of Cancun, Playa del Carmen and Tulum, along with my best accommodation options for each!

Cancun – for first-timers on the Caribbean coast

Cancun - for first-timers on the Caribbean coast 2
Cancun - for first-timers on the Caribbean coast

A few words about Cancun

Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula is home to some of the country’s most incredible places and popular tourist destinations, and Cancun is the largest city and busiest of them all!

Located on the northeast coast of the peninsula, Cancun is known for its pristine beaches, turquoise waters and lively nightlife. However, there is much more to it than just beaches and bars – which is why you should visit Cancun nevertheless!

The city is also home to a number of important archaeological sites, including the ruins of the ancient city of El Rey. There’s also the Nichupte Lagoon there, a must if you want to see wildlife, mangroves and some pretty stunning lakes. In addition, Cancun’s proximity to the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef make it a popular destination for scuba diving and snorkelling. And it’s close to Isla Mujeres as well if you want to take a relaxing day trip.

Whether you’re looking for beachfront relaxation or adventurous activities, Cancun has something to offer. And let’s not forget about Cancun International Airport, which is a big plus when it comes to transportation!

Millions of tourists from all over the world flock to Cancun each year, which is what makes it one of the top resort towns in the entire Mexico. One of the things you should note about Cancun is that it was actually founded as a tourist spot in the 70s. There are tons of hotels here for all budgets (especially luxury resorts and upscale hotels), as well as bars, restaurants and dance clubs – plus plenty of activities to do!

Cancun Mexico is divided into two main areas:

Cancun Carribean Coast

PROs:

CONs:

info about Cancun in Mexico

Distances

5 Best things to do in Cancun

  1. Visit the ancient ruins of El Rey
  2. Go scuba diving or snorkelling in the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef
  3. Party at one of Cancun’s many nightclubs
  4. Explore the local culture in downtown Cancun and get a real taste of Mexican cuisine at the amazing street food vendors
  5. Explore Isla Mujeres UNESCO Biosphere Reserve

Now that we’ve covered the best and worst of Cancun, let’s take a look at some accommodation options. Below I’ve listed my top accommodation picks for Cancun, depending on your budget:

Accommodation in Cancun

LUXURY: Grand Hotel Cancun – This five-star resort is located on a beautiful stretch of white sand beach, and features an outdoor infinity pool with stunning views of the Caribbean Sea.

RESORT: Royal UNO – All Inclusive Resort & Spa – For those looking for a luxurious all-inclusive hotel set on a private beach.

MID-RANGE: Renaissance Cancun Resort & Marina – This 5-star hotel is located in Cancun’s Hotel Zone, just steps from the beach and offers a number of amenities, including a pool, a fitness centre and a spa.

BOUTIQUE: Casa Turquesa Boutique Hotel – If you’re looking for a more intimate and unique experience, this is a great option. This small hotel is located in Cancun’s Old Town, and features a rooftop terrace with views of the city.

HOSTEL: Punta Sam – This is a great option for budget travellers. This hostel is one of the few located in Cancun’s Hotel Zone.

Playa del Carmen – For nightlife and accessibility

Playa del Carmen – For nightlife and accessibility
Playa del Carmen travel destination

A few words about Playa del Carmen

Located in Riviera Maya, Playa del Carmen is a popular tourist destination, and it’s no wonder why. Playa del Carmen offers something for everyone, whether you’re looking for gorgeous beaches or an action-packed adventure.

Playa del Carmen was once a fishing village, and that authentic vibe and charm has been preserved until today, although the city is developing year after year. One of the best things about Playa del Carmen is that it fits all types of travellers: you can enjoy it regardless if you’re visiting as a couple, with a big group of friends or if you’re a family with kids.

In contrast to Cancun’s Hotel Zone, Playa del Carmen’s downtown area is pedestrian-only and filled with small shops, restaurants and bars. And everything is within walking distance! The beaches in Playa del Carmen are also less crowded than those in Cancun. However, this doesn’t mean that Playa is NOT also crowded and expensive. Let’s just say that it’s important to do your research before booking a trip to this small town on the Riviera Maya.

Playa del Carmen in Mexico

PROs:

CONs:

TIP: If you feel like Tulum is your chosen destination but you’re low on budget, you can check out Akumal as well, which is a charming small town located between Tulum and Playa del Carmen.

Playa del Carmen nightlife

Distances

5 Best things to do in Playa del Carmen

  1. Take a dip in one of the cenotes dotting the landscape
  2. Get outdoors and active at Xplor Park or Xcaret Park
  3. Party the night away at one of Playa’s many, many nightclubs
  4. Take a Mexico road trip – Playa del Carmen is just a few hours to the Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza
  5. Take a day trip to Isla Cozumel for the bluest waters and some beach time

Now that you’ve seen my overview, here are my top accommodation picks for Playa del Carmen.

Accommodation in Playa del Carmen

LUXURY: The Reef 28 – Set on a private beach, The Reef 28 is a luxurious adults-only option for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of downtown Playa. The hotel offers an infinity pool, a spa, a restaurant and more.

RESORT: Grand Riviera Princess All Inclusive – This all-inclusive beachfront resort is located in Playa del Carmen’s Hotel Zone and offers 12 swimming pools, tennis courts and a full-service spa.

MID-RANGE: Hotel Villas Segovia Suites – This is a great mid-range option located in downtown Playa del Carmen, fit for those looking to be close to the action.

BOUTIQUE HOTEL: Balkon Boutique Hotel – This is a great boutique option for those looking to be close to the beach. This hotel is located in Playa del Carmen’s downtown area and offers an outdoor pool and gorgeous decor!

HOSTEL: Che Playa Hostel & Bar Adults Only – This budget hostel is located in downtown Playa del Carmen, and offers guests a number of amenities, including a pool, a rooftop terrace and a restaurant

Tulum – for a laid-back experience

Best Tulum Tours
Follow That Dream Sign in Tulum

Tulum is a popular tourist destination in Mexico that is known for its insanely gorgeous, soft sand beaches (with palm trees!) and well-preserved Mayan ruins. Located further down the Yucatan Peninsula, in Riviera Maya, it takes just under 2 hours to drive here from Cancun Airport. Although it is possible to visit Tulum as a day trip from Cancun, many travellers prefer to spend their entire stay here to experience the town’s more relaxed atmosphere.

Tulum is really different from Cancun and Playa del Carmen. This destination is rich in nature, cenotes, and wildlife, as well as unique views over the coast, so it’s the ideal spot for nature lovers! But it all comes with a cost, though, and this is a highly discussed subject – Tulum has become quite expensive over the years. It’s surely the most expensive option of them all, so this is really something to take into consideration if you want to choose this town, considering there aren’t many options for cheaper accommodation here. Still, there are some public beaches (Playa Paraiso, Playa Ruinas) where you can enjoy some sun for free.

Cancun vs Playa del Carmen vs Tulum - Which one should you choose for your travel style?

Tulum is also the most laid-back option of all three of them, and its old fishing village roots are still visible, although you can find tons of amazing boutique hotels and resorts there nowadays.

Similarly to Cancun, Tulum is also divided into two different areas. The distance between the two is 20 to 30 minutes away by bike (or a short taxi ride):

And speaking of bikes, transportation in Tulum is another important subject. Just like Cancun, Tulum is not walkable, so you must rent a bike or a car to get around. I personally loved exploring this gorgeous destination by bike!

21 Best Cenotes in Tulum and How To Visit Them

PROs:

CONs:

TIP: If you feel like Tulum is your chosen destination but you’re low on budget, you can check out Akumal as well, which is a charming small town located between Tulum and Playa del Carmen.

Tulum Ruins in Mexico Yucatan

Distances

5 Best things to do in Tulum

Below you’ll find just a tiiiiny round-up of things to do in Tulum, but if you want to read ALL about the subject + lots of other practical info about this destination, here’s my complete article: 8 Unmissable Things to Do in Tulum, Mexico – Complete Guide & Tips

  1. Do a half day tour of the archaeological site (Tulum Ruins) or take a road trip to the wonder of Chichen Itza, a UNESCO World Heritage site
  2. Take a tour of some of the stunning cenotes found a short bike ride around Tulum Town
  3. Hit the beach area for some of the best and most boujee parties you’ll find on your Mexico trip. For more information, check out this article: 8 Best Beach Clubs in Tulum, Mexico + Free Public Beaches
  4. Explore the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, for my fellow nature lovers out there!
  5. Take a photo tour of the incredibly interesting sights and art installations all around Tulum, created specifically for the ‘gram. Read all about them here: 23 Best Tulum Instagram Spots: A Photo Guide

Now it’s time for my list of top accommodation options in Tulum, and fear not, I have got you covered!

Accommodation in Tulum

Guess what? I already have a COMPLETE accommodation guide for Tulum that covers the 4 best areas you might want to consider staying (not just Tulum Zona Hotelera and Tulum Town!). I offer my hand-picked selection of hotels in Tulum for all budgets and preferences, plus tons of useful information. I recommend you check it out here: Where to Stay in Tulum, Mexico – Downtown VS Hotel Zone

Cancun vs Playa del Carmen vs Tulum – Final words

Playa Mirador Tulum
Holistika Tulum Mexico

Okay, now that I told you all the cons and pros that will help you decide between Cancun vs Playa del Carmen vs Tulum, let’s draw some conclusions.

If you’re looking for something laid-back yet luxurious, then choose Tulum. A stop there is a must during your Mexican vacation! Just know that this place has become quite popular over the past few years, so it’s not exactly the hidden gem that it once was. Nevertheless, its Instagram-worthiness is undeniable with its turquoise waters and postcard-perfect beaches.

If you have enough time to do some day trips, choosing Playa del Carmen would be a great option, as it’s the most convenient, both in terms of budget and getting around. From there, you can take some day trips to see both Cancun and the gorgeous Tulum beaches (1 hour by car to each of them). Just keep in mind that you won’t find much nature there, but it still has some Mexican charm left compared to Cancun.

If you don’t want to stress too much thinking about transportation or finding things to do, then you can go to an all-inclusive resort in Cancun and call it a day! Cancun is the most accessible of them all – and also the biggest and most popular resort town around, which means you’ll have everything you need there.

MY RECOMMENDATION: Regardless of which one of them you choose, I strongly advise you visit all of them during your trip, at least for a short day trip! Each one of them is special and unique in its own way, so you’ll be missing out if you only stay in one place.

Well, I hope I could bring some light into the great debate between Cancun vs Playa del Carmen vs Tulum. There are hundreds of people wondering which one of the three to choose each year, so if you found yourself in the same dilemma, don’t worry – it’s a natural problem. Which is why I did my best to fill this article with complete information about each destination, together with practical information you should keep in mind, as well as the main pros and cons for each one of them. And now I hope it will be easier for you to choose!

As I mentioned before, regardless of which destination you choose, I strongly recommend you check all of them while you’re visiting Mexico, at least for a couple of hours. Each one is worth it and will offer a different experience!

And if you want to read more about Riviera Maya and Mexico in general, here are all my articles and stories on the subject!

xoxo,

Melissa

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21 Best Cenotes in Tulum and How To Visit Them

Travelling to Tulum in Riviera Maya soon? Awesome, then you’ve surely heard about the beautiful cenotes located around the area and the entire Yucatan Peninsula as well. In case you want to find out everything there is to know about the best cenotes in Tulum, how to visit them and whether or not you should take a tour, read on, this complete guide has all the information you need!

I spent two entire weeks in Tulum at the beginning of the year, and if there’s one thing that got my heart, it would definitely be the cenotes. I could never get bored of these gorgeous crystal clear water holes and stalagmites! And no, I don’t mean just one of them – I visited several and found that each one has its own perks and unique characteristics, so I definitely recommend you visit at least a couple.

How to choose the best ones for you? Should you go to the popular cenotes or head over to other cenotes located off the beaten path? Read on, I’ll cover the answers in the sections below.

Quick info about Cenotes

What is a cenote?

what is a cenote

A cenote (pronounced seh-NO-tay) literally translates to “sinkhole”. And their name basically depicts what they are – limestone rocks that, over time, have collapsed in on themselves, creating caves that are now filled with groundwater = natural sinkholes. Cenotes are pretty specific to the Yucatan Peninsula and it is said there are approximately 6.000 cenotes here.

Except for being pretty amazing just by looking at them, many cenotes are excellent spots to swim, snorkel and dive. And trust me, there’s nothing more refreshing than a cenote’s naturally cold water (it comes from underground, so it makes sense) after a full day of exploring Tulum and staying in the sun.

Plus, it’s a well-known fact that Tulum has some of the best cenotes around!

RELATED READ: 8 Unmissable Things to Do in Tulum, Mexico – Complete Guide & Tips

Different types of cenotes

types of cenotes in Tulum

Let’s get a bit technical now. Remember I said that each cenote is unique and they’re all pretty different from each other, right? Here are 4 different types of cenotes:

How much does it cost to visit a cenote in Tulum

How much does it cost to visit a cenote in Tulum

Because Tulum has become such a popular tourist destination, entrance to the different cenotes is now charged – and the prices are increasing year by year. For example, you can now expect to pay between 80 to 500 MXN (4 to 25 US$) for entrance. Some cenote owners are cheeky and try to charge for parking separately, so keep this in mind at arrival – sometimes you can negotiate this.

Btw, I will mention the individual entrance fee for each of the cenotes I’ll be talking about below.

RELATED READ: Where To Stay In Tulum, Mexico – Downtown VS Hotel Zone

How to get to the cenotes

How to get to the cenotes

This really depends on which cenotes you’re planning on visiting – the ones closer to Tulum or those that are a bit further away:

Alternatively, if you don’t want to be in charge of transportation at all, you can book an organised tour and they will take care of everything. You can jump to my dedicated section about the best Tulum cenote tours here.

My top tips and things to keep in mind

Top tips for visiting the cenotes in Tulum
Top tips for visiting the cenotes in Tulum

Okay, one more practical information section before I start talking about the best cenotes in Tulum. Here are my top tips and useful things to keep in mind before going:

Tulum cenotes map

And here’s a map that includes all the best cenotes in Tulum I’ll be talking about below and their exact location in the area:

Tulum cenotes map

RELATED READ: 23 Best Tulum Instagram Spots: A Photo Guide

6 Best cenotes in Tulum that I have personally been to

Here’s my list of the 6 cenotes in Tulum that I have personally visited – I loved all of them equally and I will talk about each of them below. For more recommendations, scroll down to my next section where you’ll find 15 more cenotes in Tulum to choose from:

1 – Cenote Calavera

Cenote Calavera Tulum Mexico 1
Cenote Calavera in Tulum

Cenote Calavera translates to “Skull sinkhole” and that’s because it has three swimming holes opening over the cenote that look like a mouth and two eyes. Another thing that attracts tourists to this cenote is its swing, literally located over the sinkhole. Still, this is one of those cenotes that is still laid-back compared to other popular spots such as the Gran Cenote.

By the way, Tulum Cenote Calavera was recently ‘rebranded’ as The Temple of Doom Cenote and you’ll now find lots of new amenities for tourists.

WHERE: close to Tulum centre, 2.2 km away / 5 minutes by car

ENTRANCE FEE: 250 MXN (12.50 US$)

HOURS: 9 AM – 5 PM

BEST FOR: swimming, scuba diving, jumping from the 4-metre high ladder

FACILITIES: showers, life jackets, sun beds, chairs, bathrooms, a restaurant and bar. No lockers

2 – Dos Ojos Cenote

Dos Ojos Cenote Tulum Mexico

Cenote Dos Ojos (“Two Eyes”) is probably the most famous cenote in Tulum and it got its name from its double sinkholes that resemble a pair of eyes – the Blue Eye (open cenote) and the Black Eye (cave cenote). One of the most notable things about Cenote Dos Ojos is its depth – it has the deepest underwater passage (387 feet / 117 metres). This can only mean one thing: it’s one of the best cenotes in the area for snorkelling and diving! This is also why many tourists opt for a snorkelling tour at Cenote Dos Ojos! 

Also, Cenote Dos Ojos connects with Sac Actun (more info about this one down below), so it’s basically a cenote group. Parking is free here.

WHERE: 21 km away from Tulum Town / 30 minutes by car

ENTRANCE FEE: 350 MXN (17,50 US$)

HOURS: 8 AM – 5 PM

BEST FOR: snorkelling, diving, swimming

FACILITIES: changing rooms, bathrooms, lockers, life jackets (mandatory), lifeguards, a restaurant

RELATED READ: 8 Best Beach Clubs in Tulum, Mexico + Free Public Beaches

3 – Gran Cenote / Grand Cenote

Gran Cenote Tulum
Gran Cenote Tulum

The Gran Cenote (also known as the Grand Cenote) is hands-down the most popular cenote in Tulum and maybe in the Riviera Maya as well. And, as its name suggests, it’s pretty large! In fact, its cave and cavern system and ecosystem is so complex that the most recommended way of seeing it is by taking a snorkelling or diving tour. 

The Gran Cenote is also a popular pit stop if you want to visit the famous Coba ruins, for example – and I highly recommend you do!

WHERE: 4,3 km away from Tulum / 6 minutes by car

ENTRANCE FEE: 500 MXN (25 US$)

HOURS: 8:10 AM – 4:45 PM

BEST FOR: snorkelling, diving, swimming

FACILITIES: showers, bathrooms, changing rooms, lockers, equipment rental, a place to buy snacks and drinks, tables

4 – Cenote Taak Bi Ha

Cenote Taak Bi Ha Tulum Mexico

Although way less popular than Cenote Calavera or the Gran Cenote, Taak Bi Ha is one of the most beautiful Yucatan cenotes. This is actually a cave cenote (so get ready to climb down some wooden stairs to access it) located in Parque Dos Ojos, but it has a different entrance from Dos Ojos Cenote. The stalagmites and stalactites here are simply gorgeous and it is said that this is one of the most amazing cenotes for snorkelling!

One thing to note, though: Cenote Taak Bi Ha is located a bit off the beaten path on the road from Tulum to Playa del Carmen, so it’s trickier to access if you decide to take public transport. Once you arrive at the entrance to the Parque, you can either walk for 1 km or take an on-site taxi for 25 MXN (I recommend the latter).

WHERE: 22 km away from Tulum / 30 minutes by car

ENTRANCE FEE: 350 MXN (17.5 US$)

HOURS: 9 AM – 5 PM

BEST FOR: swimming, snorkelling, diving

FACILITIES: bathrooms, showers, equipment rental. No lockers

RELATED READ: Free Things to Do in Tulum, Mexico

5 – Cenote Suy Tun

Mexico Suy Tun Cenote
Suy Tun Cenote in Tulum

Cenote Suy Tun is also known as a famous Instagram cenote located close to Valladolid – and with good reason, as this cenote is… something else! What makes it so special are the out-of-this-world light beams peeking through the roof right in the centre of the cenote, on a circular platform that looks like it was taken out of a Sci-Fi movie. 

TIP: By the way, if you’re planning a trip to Chichen Itza or the Coba ruins, a pit stop to Cenote SuyTun would be a great idea!

TIP #2: I recommend visiting in the afternoon or late morning so you ensure the light beams will shine directly on the circular platform – a magical photo set-up!

 WHERE: 95 km away from Tulum / 1h 15’ by car

ENTRANCE FEE: 120 MXN (6 US$). The price includes life jackets

HOURS: 9 AM – 5 PM

BEST FOR: swimming, snorkelling and taking photos. No diving, as the water is too shallow

FACILITIES: bathrooms, changing rooms, showers, lockers, life jackets (mandatory), a place to buy snacks and drinks, tables

6 – Carwash Cenote / Cenote Aktun-Ha

Carwash Cenote

Cenote Aktun-Ha, more commonly known as Cenote Carwash or Car Wash Cenote, is a gorgeous open-air sinkhole you should add to your bucket list. It has diving platforms and amazing underwater caves waiting to be explored. This cenote is also very easily accessible, located right near the parking lot, and it’s also (still) one of the cheapest cenotes around.

And in case you were wondering what’s up with this unusual name, there’s actually a story behind it: in the past, taxi drivers would stop here to wash their cars – hence, Cenote Carwash! That was, of course, before the cenotes became one of the most popular tourist spots in the Yucatan with outrageous entrance and photography fees, heh.

NOTE: There’s also a crocodile on-site that sometimes makes an appearance!

WHERE: 8.5 km from Tulum / 10 minutes by car

ENTRANCE FEE: 50 MXN (2.5 US$)

HOURS: 8 AM – 6 PM

BEST FOR: sunbathing, swimming, snorkelling, diving

FACILITIES: bathrooms, showers, lockers, equipment rental

15 Other best cenotes in Tulum to consider

1 – Cenote Azul

Cenote Azul Tulum

Cenote Azul is an open-air cenote, located mid-way down the road from Tulum to Playa del Carmen. There are actually different crystal water pools here, as well as a cliff that you can jump from. 

One of the best things about this cenote is that it’s great for families, too, as it actually has two swimming areas divided by a wooden walkway – one with shallow water, perfect for kids, and a deeper one where you can do cliff jumping. Plus, it’s easily accessible as well, as it’s right on the main road.

WHERE: 40 km from Tulum / 30 minutes by car

ENTRANCE FEE: 140 MXN (7 US$)

HOURS: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM

BEST FOR: swimming, snorkelling, jumping

FACILITIES: showers, toilets, lockers, equipment rental, a place to buy snacks and drinks, benches, tables

RELATED READ: Best Places to Eat in Tulum

2, 3 – Cenote Cristal and Cenote Escondido

Cenote Cristal and Cenote Escondido

Cenote Cristal and Cenote Escondido are located really close to each other (across the street, basically), which is why I’m grouping both here as one recommendation. Plus, you can buy one ticket to visit both, so a combined visit makes all the sense in the world.

Cenote Cristal is an open air cenote with crystal clear waters – surprising, I know! It actually looks like a huge outdoor pool and it also has three platforms to choose from (each with a different depth) and a rope that will help you do some fun jumps.

Cenote Escondido, literally translating to “Hidden Cenote”, is actually hidden inside a forest, which makes everything even more beautiful. This open air cenote has a rope as well and different pools, and it’s ideal for some unforgettable cenote diving and snorkelling.

One of the best things about visiting these two sister cenotes is the fact that they’re lesser known to tourists, so the chances of bumping into huge crowds here are minimal.

WHERE: 7 km from Tulum / 10 minutes by car

ENTRANCE FEE: 150 MXN (7.5 US$) to enter both cenotes

HOURS: 10 AM – 5 PM

BEST FOR: swimming, snorkelling, diving, platform jumping

FACILITIES: bathrooms, showers, changing rooms, life jackets, grilling area, tables and chairs

4 – Cenote Cristalino

Cenote Cristalino in Mexico Tulum

Nope, you should not confuse Cenote Cristal with Cenote Cristalino, as they are not the same! While the one above (Cristal) is located merely 10 minutes away from Tulum’s centre, Cenote Cristalino is further away on the road to Playa del Carmen. It’s also close to Cenote Azul, so I recommend visiting both in one day if you have the time.

Cenote Cristalino is another open-air cenote with gorgeous waters and two different areas: an open area and a cave area. You can also do cliff jumping here and they have a swing as well – so cool!

WHERE: 40 km away from Tulum / 30 minutes by car

ENTRANCE FEE: 200 MXN (10 US$)

HOURS: 8 AM – 6 PM

BEST FOR: swimming, snorkelling

FACILITIES: bathrooms, showers, changing rooms, life jackets (included in the entrance price), a place to buy snacks and drinks

5 – Casa Cenote / Cenote Manati

Casa Cenote in Mexico Tulum

Casa Cenote, also known as Cenote Manati because of the manatees that used to live here, is another open-air cenote located on the road from Tulum to Playa del Carmen. What makes it a perfect cenote is the lush greenery and mangrove surrounding it. Jungle vibes? Yes, sir! This is also one of those Tulum cenotes fit for some unique activities such as kayaking or paddle boarding, besides the classic snorkelling and scuba diving. There’s also a beach near Casa Cenote that you can visit for some classic sunbathing.

Another aspect that makes Casa Cenote so unique is the fact that it has a river current and SO much wildlife to admire while you’re there – anything from colourful fish to butterflies and birds.

WHERE: 10 km from Tulum / 15 minutes by car

ENTRANCE FEE: 150 MXN (7.5 US$)

HOURS: 9 AM – 5 PM

BEST FOR: swimming, snorkelling, diving, scuba lessons, kayaking, SUP

FACILITIES: life jackets, lockers, equipment rental, mobile toilets in the parking lot, Casa Cenote Restaurant is right across the road from the entrance

6, 7, 8 – Cenote Sac Actun, Cenote El Pit and Cenote Nicte-Ha

Cenote Sac Actun in Mexico

You may remember that I mentioned Parque Dos Ojos before – this is where Cenote Dos Ojos is located, but also three other gorgeous cenotes that I recommend you visit as well if you have enough time:

NOTE: If you want to dive at Cenote Sac Actun, it is highly recommended to hire a professional guide, regardless if you are an expert diver yourself. The cave system is very complex. Also, if you suffer from claustrophobia, I wouldn’t advise you to go down there.

WHERE: 44 km away from Tulum / 35 minutes by car

ENTRANCE FEE: 450 MXN (22.5 US$) for Sac Actun (includes gear + guided tour), 20 US$ to dive in The Pit Cenote and 200 MXN (10 US$) to enter Nicte-Ha Cenote.

HOURS: 9 AM – 5 PM

BEST FOR: swimming, snorkelling, advanced cave diving

FACILITIES: equipment rental, guided tours

9 – Cenote Angelita

Cenote Angelita Mexico

Tired of amazing diving cenotes near Tulum yet? I hope not, because I still have some gorgeous options for you! Cenote Angelita (“Little Angel”) is another pond cenote for your list that offers incredible underwater wonders and an interesting natural phenomenon as well – the different water densities here make it look like there’s a river running underneath the water. It’s hard to explain it in words, so you’ll have to see it to understand – this is also why this cenote is called “Underwater River”, too!

NOTE: Because there’s natural gas at this cenote, you’ll definitely smell it as well. Something similar to boiled eggs – not that bad, but not very pleasant either! Some divers mention you can ‘smell’ it under the water, as well.

WHERE: 16 km from Tulum / 20 minutes by car

ENTRANCE FEE: 150 MXN (7.5 US$)

HOURS: 8 AM – 5 PM

BEST FOR: swimming, snorkelling, advanced diving

FACILITIES: bathrooms, dive tables

10 – Cenote Zacil Ha

Cenote Zacil Ha Tulum

Looking for some lesser known cenotes near Tulum? Cenote Zacil Ha might be for you! One fun fact about this open sinkhole is that it was only discovered 30 years ago – but its caves are prehistoric! You can see some gorgeous stalactites here, but the highlight has to be the zipline, which is absolutely amazing for some jumping (10 pesos per ride).

Zacil Ha has two pools with shallow water, which makes it perfect for families as well – after all, it’s a swimming pool-style cenote. It’s also suuuper close to Cenote Carwash (350m away), so it makes sense to do a combined visit!

WHERE: 8.5 km from Tulum, 10 minutes by car

ENTRANCE FEE: 200 MXN (10 US$)

HOURS: 10 AM – 5:30 PM

BEST FOR: swimming, zip-line jumping in the water

FACILITIES: bathrooms, life jackets, zip line, hammock, swimming pool, a place to buy snacks and drinks

11 – Cenote Casa Tortuga

Cenote Casa Tortuga Mexico

Cenotes Casa Tortuga is basically a group of 4 cenotes located really close to Tulum – Cenote Wisho, Tres Zapotes, Cenote Campana and Cenote Jaguar. It’s a mix of cave cenotes, open and semi-open cenotes, so you can easily experience all types of landscapes and rock formations here.

WHERE: 12.5 km away from Tulum / 15 minutes by car

ENTRANCE FEE: 850 MXN (42.5 US$) – includes access to all 4 cenotes + snorkel gear + guide + zip line

HOURS: 9 AM – 5 PM

BEST FOR: swimming, jumping, zip lining

FACILITIES: bathrooms, showers, lockers, a restaurant and some other places to buy food and snacks, guided tours

12 – Cenote Yax-Muul

Cenote Yax-Muul Mexico

Cenote Yax-Muul (Parque De Cenotes Yax-Muul) is another hidden gem with no tourists located only minutes away from Tulum Town, very close to Jungle Maya Park. This underwater cave is the perfect spot to admire stalactites and light beams peeking through the roof. If you want to swim in shallow waters, you can also check out Sac Tuunich, which is a smaller cave near Yax-Muul.

NOTE: This cenote is located quite literally off the beaten path, so people will usually hire an ATV guide to take them there.

WHERE: 15 km from Tulum / 15 minutes by car

ENTRANCE FEE: 20 US$

HOURS: 9 AM – 5 PM

BEST FOR: swimming, Mayan ceremonies

FACILITIES: bathrooms, life jackets, guided tours

13 – Cenote Choo-Ha

Cenote Choo-Ha Mexico

Cenote Choo-Ha is really close to the Coba Ruins, so you can combine it with your day trip there in case you’re planning on visiting these beautiful Mayan ruins – plus, you may be lucky enough to find almost no other tourists here! This is an underground cenote cave with shallow waters, so you can easily swim there. There are beautiful rock formations there such as stalactites and stalagmites here and the access is made by going down a long wooden staircase.

If you’re up for an extensive adventure, you can also visit Cenote Tamcach-Ha and Cenote Multum-Ha, which are both near Choo-Ha.

WHERE: 53 km away from Tulum, 50 minutes by car

ENTRANCE FEE: 100 MXN (5 US$)

HOURS: 8 AM – 6 PM

BEST FOR: swimming

FACILITIES: bathrooms, changing rooms, showers, life jackets, no places to buy snacks or drinks

14 – Cenote Xunaan-Ha / Akumal Cenote

Cenote Xunaan-Ha Akumal Cenote

Cenote Xunaan-Ha is located in Chemuyil village, north of Akumal, very close to Tulum and right on the road to Playa del Carmen. The biggest advantage of this cenote is that, compared to some other popular ones such as Cenote Dos Ojos, Cenote Calavera and the Gran Cenote, tourists will rarely set foot here. So you might end up having the entire place to yourself!

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also do cliff jumping or use the zipline here!

WHERE: 22 km from Tulum / 22 minutes by car

ENTRANCE FEE: 200 MXN (10 US$)

HOURS: 9 AM – 5 PM

BEST FOR: swimming, snorkelling, diving, cliff jumping, zip lining

FACILITIES: bathrooms

15 – Cenote Eden / Cenote Jardin Del Eden

Cenote Jardin Del Eden Mexico

Cenote Eden, also known as Cenote Jardin Del Eden has a name that perfectly depicts this little piece of heaven: turquoise waters, lush vegetation and an overall mystical atmosphere. In short, it looks like the Garden of Eden!

Just like Cenote Cristalino and Cenote Azul, this is one of the best cenotes located on the road from Tulum to Playa del Carmen, offering something for all types of travellers, from people that want to chill and float around to scuba divers!

WHERE: 46 km away from Tulum, 50 minutes by car

ENTRANCE FEE: 200 MXN (10 US$)

HOURS: 9 AM – 5 PM

BEST FOR: swimming, snorkelling, diving, cliff jumping

FACILITIES: bathrooms, life jackets, a place to buy snacks and drinks

Tulum cenote tours

Tulum cenote tours
tours of tulum cenotes

I know, I’ve told you so much about so many amazing cenotes in Tulum, both close and further away from the city centre. Transportation can sometimes be a hassle that involves lots of negotiation and searching for affordable fares – so in case you don’t want to deal with that, I recommend booking an organised Tulum cenote tour. Your guide will be in charge of everything, from transportation to entrance fees and also showing you around and telling you interesting information.

Here are some of the top-rated tours that include some of the best Tulum cenotes out there:

This was my complete guide about all the best cenotes in Tulum, Riviera Maya! In this article I have spoken about some of the most famous cenotes such as Dos Ojos, Cenote Carwash, Cenote Sac Atun, Casa Cenote, Cenote SuyTun and more, as well as some other cenotes which I consider to be hidden gems such as Cenote Zacil-Ha, Casa Tortuga and more. In short, you’ll find cenotes near Tulum (as close as 10 minutes by car, which is really close) and cenotes that are further away, usually on the road to Playa del Carmen.

In case you need more information about travelling to Tulum, I recommend clicking here to find all my posts about this unique destination. And here you will find all my posts about Mexico.

xoxo,

Melissa

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21 Must Visit Cenotes in Tulum Mexico
Best Cenotes to Visit in Tulum Mexico Ultimate Guide and Tips

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23 Best Tulum Instagram Spots: A Photo Guide

Tulum is any photographer and content creator’s dream, as there are so many unique places there that offer endless aesthetic opportunities! If you’re looking for some of the best Tulum Instagram spots (both the super popular ones that everyone loves but also some new spots that are still relatively unknown), I’m here to help!

I spent two entire weeks in Tulum, during which I explored everything that this incredible vacation destination has to offer: the beaches, the beach clubs, restaurants, streets, the swings, hotels, statues and everything in-between.

Located only 1h30’ from Cancun Airport, Tulum is not only heaven for Instagrammers, but also an excellent travel destination for everyone looking for complete relaxation, turquoise water, world-class restaurants, hotels and fun nightclubs as well. 

The awesome thing about Tulum is that most hotels and restaurant owners really ‘understood the assignment’ and put together Instagrammable corners at the entrance of their premises or have created a modern, chic, bohemian decor that attracts tourists inside. And they’ve done a beautiful job too, as you’ll find photo ops everywhere you look!

TIP: Important tip right before we start: if you’d like to visit most of these Tulum photo spots, make sure to make a list, make a schedule and plan your photo itinerary beforehand. Some of the places I’m recommending below require a short drive away from Tulum, so it’s easy to miss them completely if you don’t plan ahead!

Okay, now let’s dive right into it! By the way, I’ve visited all the places I’m recommending below and I can assure you they’re worth your time:

23 Instagrammable places in Tulum and how to find them

1 – Ven a la Luz Tulum statue

Ven a la Luz Tulum statue
Ven a la Luz Tulum statue

Ven a la Luz statue has quickly become one of the most iconic spots in Tulum – in fact, did you really visit Tulum if you don’t have a picture in front of it?! I don’t think so! 😉 If you’ve been researching the subject for a while, I’m absolutely convinced you’ve already seen pictures of this statue of a woman showing the “entrance” to her heart, full of greenery.

The statue is 10m tall and it’s made of a mix of wood, steel, rope and plants; it was created to depict the union between people and nature – and it’s soooo pretty!

WHEN TO VISIT: Because this is SUCH a popular place, it is recommended to visit as early as possible, right after sunrise, preferably from 7 to 8 AM.

PRICE: Access to Ahau Tulum Sculpture Park is 60 MXN / 3 US$

ADDRESS: Carr. Tulum a Boca Paila Km. 7.5 Zona Costera. Find it on Google Maps here.

NOTE: The statue was located at the entrance of Ahau Hotel on Tulum Beach before, an information mentioned in most blog posts out there. But recently it has been moved inside the hotel’s garden, to the newly opened (in Oct 2021) Ahau Tulum Sculpture Park. This also means they now charge a fee for photos (entrance fee is 60 MXN / 3 US$).

2 – Raw Love Cafe & Ahau Tulum

Raw Love Cafe
Ahau Hotel in Tulum Mexico

Speaking of Ahau Hotel, why not mention that the premises of this luxury, eco-friendly boutique hotel are a real Instagram attraction by themselves? Everything looks gorgeous there, and it’s also the place where another extremely popular Insta-spot in Tulum is located: Raw Love Cafe

Raw Love is probably the best raw vegan cafe in the entirety of Tulum, serving delicious smoothie bowls, raw dishes and desserts, as well as vegan ice cream. There are, in fact, two locations for this cafe: one right on the beach at Ahau Hotel (the original) and another one in Tulum Town, but the one on the beach is more Instagram-worthy. If you visit, make sure to take a photo in the colourful hammocks and to try the food as well, you won’t be disappointed! 

WHEN TO VISIT: I recommend visiting the cafe close to their opening time at 9 AM to beat the crowds

PRICE: It’s free to enter the premises but I’d recommend buying something from the cafe

ADDRESS: Tulum Beach, 77500 Tulum. Find it on Google Maps here.

3 – Follow that Dream Sign

Follow That Dream Sign in Tulum
tulum follow that dream sign

Probably equally popular to the Ven a la Luz statue, this pretty little “Follow That Dream” sign makes an appearance in everyone’s pictures from Tulum. Seriously now, I think I can safely say that it’s one of the most photographed signs in the entire world!

Although really famous and located directly on Tulum Beach Road, the sign doesn’t have its own location on Google Maps, but here’s how to find it: add  Sueños Tulum Hotel or Lolita Lolita Boutique as your destination. The sign is right across the street.

WHEN TO VISIT: As early as you can, as there’s usually a line in front of the sign

PRICE: Taking a photo here is free!

ADDRESS: Lolita Lolita Boutique, Carr. Tulum-Boca Paila km 8.5, Tulum Beach, Zona Hotelera. Find it on Google Maps here.

TIP #1: Although not as popular (luckily for us, though!), there’s also a “Here is the dream” sign located outside of Santo Mercado Tulum, 400 metres away. There’s also a nice sculpture on the roof of the mercato (it’s actually a restaurant + grocery store) that offers a bonus photo op.

TIP #2: If you want THE perfect, tropical Tulum photo with this sign, you can rent a bike from Alaya Tulum Hotel nearby and use it in the picture. Their bikes are turquoise and it’s a pretty popular photo set-up. A bike costs 15 US$ per 24 hours and you’ll have to leave your ID as a deposit.

4 – Selina Tulum

Selina Tulum hotel
selina tulum

You’ll find lots of incredible hotel entrances in this article, and such is the case with Selina Tulum too. In fact, I think these entrances are literally some of the most impressive places in Tulum to take unique pictures, I was obsessed with the opportunities! But let’s talk about the first one, at Selina Hotel.

Selina is a beachfront hotel and hostel that also has a beach club. The entrance here, as you can see in my pictures, is basically a huge archway made of wood, with sun beams everywhere. It resembles the shape of the sun and, with the right light peeking in, you’ll snap some magical pictures!

WHEN TO VISIT: This photo spot is not as popular as the ones above, so I’d say it’s safe to visit any time of the day without waiting in line

PRICE: Free, the entrance to Selina is open to the public. If you want to spend some time at the beach club, the minimum spend is 800 MXN / 40 US$

ADDRESS: Carr. Tulum-Boca Paila Km. 7.5, Tulum Beach, Zona Hotelera. Find it on Google Maps here.

RELATED READ: 8 Unmissable Things to Do in Tulum, Mexico – Complete Guide & Tips

5 – Matcha Mama

Matcha Mama in Tulum
Matcha Mama Tulum cafe

Ah, here’s another one of those iconic Instagram spots in Tulum that everyone loves! Matcha Mama is a cute hut that serves drinks and some of the best acai bowls around, as well as everything matcha-related. Besides the delicious food, what makes this place so special is the fact that they have wooden swings instead of chairs, as well as a cute menu sign outside, a pink flamingo wall, plus a “I love Tulum so Matcha” sign written on a surfboard too. Jungle vibes included as well!

Although there are different Matcha Mama locations all around Tulum, the most popular one (and the one I recommend visiting too) is at Tulum Beach, close to I Scream Bar (further down on this list).

WHEN TO VISIT: Needless to say that Matcha Mama on the beach is extremely popular and there are customers there at any given time of the day. I recommend going 10-15 minutes before their opening time, which is 8 AM, in order to beat the crowds

PRICE: Free entrance, but because it’s a cafe, I recommend buying something from their menu – everything is delicious at Matcha Mama, I promise! If you’re not hungry, you can order at least a coffee to go or some water, just for good manners

ADDRESS: Carretera Tulum-Punta Allen, Tulum. Find it on Google Maps here.

6 – Sunrise Beach / Playa Mirador

Sunrise Beach
Playa Mirador Tulum

If you’re an early bird, watching the sunrise in Tulum is definitely something to do. And even if you’re not, visiting Sunrise Beach for stunning photos is definitely recommended! 

Sunrise Beach is located in the Zona Hotelera area and one of the best parts about it is that it’s a public beach, which means you won’t have to pay any hotel entrance! The beach has quite a varied landscape, with rocky parts in the northern end and gorgeous milky sand in the southern end, offering lots of photo ops!

Two other unmissable spots there are the “Stay present” and “Embrace the Mystery” yellow signs, located on opposing sides of the beach. They make for great Instagram shots!

WHEN TO VISIT: at sunrise for the best light and colourful sky

PRICE: free

ADDRESS: Camino Boca Pila, Javier Rojo Gómez. Find it on Google Maps here.

RELATED READ: Where to Stay in Tulum, Mexico – Downtown VS Hotel Zone

7 – Holistika

Holistika hotel
Holistika hotel spot

If you’re looking for some not-that-popular Instagram spots in Tulum, Holistika is an excellent candidate: it’s a gorgeous boutique hotel in La Veleta neighbourhood in Tulum Pueblo / Tulum city center and it’s literally full of beautiful photo spots everywhere you look!

If you want to linger around for more, they also have a really good restaurant, a wellness centre and a shop as well. Plus the Holistika Art Walk, which is something really special and I’ll be telling you all about below!

WHEN TO VISIT: any time of the day

PRICE: It’s free to walk around the property even if you’re not a guest

ADDRESS: Av 10 Sur Lote 4, Manzana 902, Zona 11. Find it on Google Maps here.

8 – Holistika – Art Walk

Holistika Art Walk
Holistika Art Walk

If you decide to take a walk around Hotel Holistika, you simply can’t miss their Art Walk! Holistika Art Walk is located in the jungle, within the premises of the hotel and it’s basically a route full of amazing artwork, mural paintings and sculptures, each more impressive than the other. A magical experience!

WHEN TO VISIT: any time of the day

PRICE: no entry fee

ADDRESS: Av 10 Sur Lote 4, Manzana 902, Zona 11. Find it on Google Maps here.

RELATED READ: Free Things to Do in Tulum, Mexico

9 – Coco Tulum

Coco Tulum
© Coco Tulum
Coco Tulum
© Coco Tulum

Coco Tulum is one of the most popular beach clubs on Tulum Beach! Except for the delicious drinks and relaxed vibe, one of the most important features of this place that attracts tourists like crazy is their white swings, located right on the beach, with the gorgeous turquoise water as a background. 

WHEN TO VISIT: Being so popular, Coco Tulum gets crowded really fast. If you’re set on taking a few photos in the swings, I recommend arriving right when they open, at 10 AM.

PRICE: No entrance fee, but there’s a minimum spending fee of 25 US$ during the week and 50 US$ during weekends. If you have a room booked at Coco Tulum Hotel, you don’t have a spending limit.

ADDRESS: km 7.5, Carr. Tulum-Boca Paila, Tulum Beach. Find it on Google Maps here.

10 – Cinco Glamping

Cinco Tulum Instagram Spots
Cinco Tulum Beach

Cinco Glamping is another accommodation-and-beach-club combo located on the North Beach with Instagrammable vibes. Depending on your plans, you can either relax at their beach club with a drink in your hand or you can book a luxury tent there if you want to spend the night in the romantic Mayan Jungle. 

If you want to skip the accommodation, you can still visit the beach club, where you’ll find enough photo spots to fill an afternoon of snapping around. There’s also a restaurant and a bar there, so you can easily spend half a day relaxing.

WHEN TO VISIT: any time of the day

PRICE: Reservation required during weekends + minimum spend of 50 US$. Free to visit + no minimum spend on weekdays

ADDRESS: Carretera Tulum Boca Paila km 1.8, Zona Hotelera Tulum. Find it on Google Maps here.

11 – Tulum Beach

Beach day in Tulum Mexico
Tulum Beach accommodation

This one’s a no-brainer: you can’t visit Tulum without taking some amazing photos on Tulum’s stunning beaches, right? After all, this is what Tulum is all about: turquoise waters, gorgeous white sand plus lots of beach clubs!

RELATED READ: 8 Best Beach Clubs in Tulum, Mexico + Free Public Beaches

12 – Dos Ojos Cenote

Dos Ojos Cenote Tulum Mexico

Spoiler alert: I’ll be talking about plenty of cenotes in this post, my friends! Cenote Dos Ojos is located north of Tulum, around 30 minutes away by car. What makes it so special is the fact that this cenote is made of two different cenotes with a passage connecting them – hence the name “Dos Ojos”, meaning “two eyes”. In fact, Dos Ojos is one of the biggest underwater cave systems in the world!

TIP: The main cenote is bigger and brighter, making it a better photo spot. 

The water here is SO clear and the entire setting is so beautiful, it’ll be absolutely ridiculous to come without a camera! 

WHEN TO VISIT: as early as possible, as it’s really popular among tourists and divers too. I recommend going at 8.30 AM, right when they open

PRICE: 350 MXN (18 US$) entrance fee + 300 MXN (15 US$) photography fee if you’re using a DSLR camera. No fee if you’re taking photos with your phone or a GoPro

RELATED READ: 21 Best Cenotes in Tulum and How To Visit Them

13 – Gran Cenote

Gran Cenote Tulum
Gran Cenote in Tulum Mexico

Gran Cenote (or Grand Cenote) is the largest and probably the most popular cenote near Tulum and the entire Yucatan Peninsula as well! Gran Cenote has one of the clearest waters I have ever seen and it’s relatively close to Tulum, too – 20 minutes from the beach and 10 minutes from the Pueblo. 

Of course, this is also THE place where everyone goes to take pictures – which means it can get quite crowded. Gran Cenote is also an excellent spot for swimming, snorkelling and diving with fish and turtles too – bonus photo opportunities! 

WHEN TO VISIT: as early as possible; they open at 8 AM

PRICE: 500 MXN (25 US$) per person. Entrance fee includes snorkelling equipment + life vest

NOTE: DSLR cameras are no longer allowed here, so you can only take photos with your phone or GoPro.

14 – I Scream Bar

I Scream Bar Tulum
I Scream Bar Tulum

IMPORTANT NOTE: This location is permanently closed, but I Scream Bar in Bacalar is still open. Sadly, it’s 220 km away from Tulum.

I Scream Bar has a really unique design and a beautiful turquoise tuk-tuk right in front of it, so you literally can’t miss it! The tuk-tuk works as an ice cream bar (hence the name) and there are also turquoise car parts ‘hanging’ in the bar itself – it’s something to witness, I promise!

While you’re there, you can also try their vegan and raw vegan ice cream – it’s really delicious. And if you happen to visit at night, you might be pleasantly surprised by the wild parties they organise! They’re open ‘till 12 AM.

WHEN TO VISIT: this is another popular photo spot in Tulum, so it gets crowded really fast. I recommend visiting at 2 PM sharp, right when they open

PRICE: free, but because it’s a bar, I recommend having something from their menu. The ice cream is a great choice!

ADDRESS: Tulum Beach, 77766 Tulum, Quintana Roo, Mexico. Find it on Google Maps here.

15 – ROC Luxe Tulum

Roc Luxe Tulum Instagram
ROC Luxe Tulum

Told you I’ll be mentioning some other hotel entrances in this article! The entrance at ROC Luxe, a gorgeous beachfront hotel, is a perfect Instagram spot – it’s something out of this world! You simply need to take a look at the photos above, as the design is really hard to put into words… In short, the entrance at ROC Luxe Tulum is a huge white dome with holes in it, with sun rays peeking through aka a perfect little background for getting creative!

WHEN TO VISIT: this place is really not that popular (yet), so you can visit any time of the day, early morning being the best idea. Avoid the early afternoon and late morning because that’s when people are checking in and out of the hotel

PRICE: free

ADDRESS: Carr. Tulum-Boca Paila KM 5.5, Tulum Beach, Zona Hotelera. Find it on Google Maps here.

16 – Cenote Calavera

Cenote Calavera Tulum Mexico 1
Cenote Calavera in Tulum

Cenote Calavera, literally translating to “skull sinkhole” is another unique cenote located very close to Tulum. Cenote Calavera consists of three different swimming holes (one bigger and two smaller) and it got its name because these holes resemble two eyes and a mouth – in short, a skull. And if you’ve seen photos of Tulum before, I’m absolutely convinced you’ve stumbled upon this wonderful cenote before!

There’s also a rope string and a ladder on the side that you can use for jumping in the water or as a prop for photos! Plus, you can also scuba dive here.

WHEN TO VISIT: I recommend visiting as early as possible to beat the crowds. The cenote opens at 9 AM

PRICE: entrance fee is 100 MXN (5 US$). 200 MXN (10 US$) for diving

17 – Temazcal ritual

Temazcal in Tulum Mexico

In case you’re looking for unique things to do in Tulum, here’s my recommendation: a Temazcal ritual. In short, a Temazcal ritual is a Mayan ceremony of purification during which you sit in a traditional, tiny sweat lodge made of stone or wood that looks like a huge pizza oven. A local shaman pours water over the rocks while singing a chant and summoning spirits, and everything happens in complete darkness.

Of course, you won’t be able to take photos inside the temazcal, but you can snap some pretty awesome shots with the sweat lodge itself! Two hotels that do good rituals and that I can recommend are Nomade and Holistika.

18 – SFER IK

Sfer Ik Tulum
SFER IK

Lot of hotels in Tulum started creating their own museums or art exhibitions to attract more tourists and create more content creation possibilities for us (as is the case with Holistika Art Walk above) – and Azulik Hotel is another one of them!

SKER IK Museion is Azulik’s “contemporary art museum” showcasing international visual artists. They also organise artist residencies, workshops and educational art programs, and everything is thought of with nature in mind, which I think is really cool! Except for their cultural tourism goal, Sfer Ik is an excellent spot for photos as well.

WHEN TO VISIT: any time of the day. They open at 10 AM and they close at 10 PM

PRICE: entrance fee is 10 US$ per person. Photography fee is 100 US$ if you’re using a DSLR or GoPro. Phone camera is free to use

ADDRESS: Next to Azulik Hotel. Carretera Tulum – Punta Allen KM 5, Zona Hotelera. Find it on Google Maps here.

TIP: You’ll need to take your shoes off as you enter the museum – this adds to the entire experience and I’m mentioning it because you might want to plan your outfit beforehand with this in mind! Also, bags bigger than 40×40 cm are not allowed inside the museum, so you might want to leave your beach bag in your hotel room.

19 – Tulum bike ride

renting a bike in tulum

Renting a bike is the most recommended means of transport while you’re in Tulum – it’s cheap, convenient and it’s what everyone does! Except for practicality, riding a bike from Tulum Town to Tulum Hotel Zone offers plenty of opportunities to stop and snap a unique picture. There are many Instagrammable spots along the beach road – you just need to take your time and use your imagination!

20 – Cenote Taak Bi Ha

Cenote Taak Bi Ha Tulum Mexico

Yup, here’s another cenote for unique photos. Cenote Taak Bi Ha is said to be one of the most beautiful cenotes in the entire Yucatan. This cave cenote is located only 20 minutes from Tulum and it offers plenty of opportunities for photos, swimming, snorkelling and even diving.

WHEN TO VISIT: I recommend arriving as early as possible in order to beat the crowds; preferably at 8 AM right when they open

PRICE: 350 MXN (18 US$) – it’s one of the most popular cenotes in the area, so it got pricier too

ADDRESS: Taak Bi, Parque Dos Ojos Cenote S/N, Xel-Ha. Find it on Google Maps here.

21 – Boutique shops and street stalls

Boutique shops tulum
Things to do in Tulum boutique stalls

It’s no secret that Tulum is a place full of awesome shops and boutique stalls selling anything from clothes to furniture, accessories and Mexican handcrafts. You’ll find shops both in Tulum Town and on the beach area, the latter being a bit more expensive. And although Tulum is definitely not the place to shop for cheap, affordable souvenirs and handicrafts, you can still snap a photo or two in front of the street shops!

Some nice shops to check out in Tulum are Pura Vida Tulum, La Pulga Boutique, La Troupe and Wanderlust.

22 – Papaya Playa Project

Papaya Playa Project Tulum
© Papaya Playa Project
Papaya Playa Project Tulum
© Papaya Playa Project

Papaya Playa Project is hands-down one of the most Instagram-famous hotels in Tulum. This beachfront hotel has become really popular on social media, mainly because of their jungle wooden huts (“casitas”) that also have a rooftop pool. Imagine just how many photo opportunities you have if you stay here!

And even if you’re not staying here, you can still visit the premises and discover their art installations and unique design. If you have a drone, prepare for some amazing shots from above – it is said to be THE best spot in Tulum for drone footage!

WHEN TO VISIT: I recommend arriving right when they open, at 10 AM.

PRICE: There’s a minimum spend of 1.000 MXN (50 US$) per person on weekdays and 2.000 MXN (100 US$) per person on weekends

ADDRESS: Carr. Tulum-Boca Paila Km 4.5, Tulum Beach, Zona Costera. Find it on Google Maps here.

RELATED READ: Best Places to Eat in Tulum

23 – Chichen Itza

Chichen Itza Mexico

Last but not least, Chichen Itza is one of those iconic places that you definitely have to visit if you’re in the Yucatan. It’s actually one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This place used to be a Mayan city from 600 AD – yep, it’s that old! 

Besides being a place full of history and archeology importance, it’s also one of my most recommended Instagram spots in Tulum – you just have to! After all, it’s one of the most visited places in all of Mexico.

WHEN TO VISIT: as early in the morning as possible so you can beat the crowds AND the intense heat. They open at 8 AM and I recommend being there around 10 minutes earlier

PRICE: 533 MXN (27.30 US$) as follows: 453 MXN entrance fee + 80 MXN tax, so you’ll have to pay at 2 different booths.

16 Other Tulum Instagram spots:

Tulum Mayan Ruins
Tulum Mayan Ruins

In case you have visited Tulum before or you’re simply looking for some lesser known Tulum Instagram spots, here’s an additional list of places to save:

casa malca tulum
© Casa Malca Tulum

BONUS: My top tips for Tulum + photo tips!

8 Unmissable Things to Do in Tulum, Mexico - Complete Guide & Tips

PLAN YOUR PHOTO ITINERARY BEFOREHAND

Most of the places mentioned in this article are located on the Tulum strip of beaches, which means it’ll be easy to plan your Tulum Itinerary to include them all, especially if you’re biking around. By the way, I strongly recommend selecting your fave spots and creating a coherent itinerary with them in mind, otherwise you might miss some!

ARRIVE AS EARLY AS YOU CAN

If you’ve read the article carefully, you probably understood the golden rule already: try to arrive as early as possible at all the popular spots in Tulum, otherwise you have little chances to snap some Instagram photos without any other tourists in sight.

BE PATIENT

Obviously, it’s not possible to arrive everywhere at 8 AM, so I recommend you muster up a lot of patience. It’s not uncommon to find long queues of tourists in front of some of these popular Instagrammable places in Tulum. Just wait and you’ll get your shot!

USE GOOGLE MAPS IN OFFLINE MODE

There are lots of places on the beach strip where it’s possible to have no cell reception, which means no internet as well. Make sure you save all your favourite Instagram spots in Tulum in Google Maps and then make sure you can access them later in offline mode.

SUPPORT THE LOCAL BUSINESSES

Some of the places I’ve mentioned in this article are cafes, bars or restaurants that charge no fee to enter the premises. If your only aim of going there is to snap some Instagram pictures, I strongly recommend that you also order something from their menu out of courtesy – at least a bottle of water or coffee to go.

STAY CURIOUS AND ALWAYS LOOK AROUND

Tulum is such a popular destination that new places are popping up constantly. While you’re making your way around the city or along the hotel zone, make sure to pay attention around you. Who knows, maybe you’ll stumble upon a hidden gem!

Aaand this was my ultra long list of Instagrammable places in Tulum! I’ve actually made two different lists – one that includes MY favourite spots such as the famous “Follow That Dream” sign, Matcha Mama and their smoothie bowls, Cenote Dos Ojos, and more. And then I made a secondary list that includes 16 BONUS Tulum Instagram spots in case you have more time to explore the area such as the Tulum Ruins, Casa Malca, Coba Mayan Ruins, Kaan Luum Lagoon and more! Last but not least, I also offered you my most precious photo tips for visiting Tulum, so I’m sure you now know everything there is to know about this Instagrammable destination.

And remember: make sure to save all your favourite Instagram spots from this list for later and to create a coherent itinerary with them!

In case you need more than just a list of Instagrammable places, I recommend clicking here to find all my articles about Tulum. And here you’ll find all my articles and stories about Mexico in general!

xoxo,

Melissa

Want to know more about travelling to Tulum?

Pin me for later!

Guide to the best Instagram spots in Tulum Mexico
23 Most Instagrammable Places in Tulum Mexico

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Where to Stay in Tulum, Mexico – Downtown VS Hotel Zone

Planning a trip to Tulum in the Riviera Maya soon? You’re in for a treat! But you’ll also find that, while planning your trip, you’ll encounter a pretty important decision: where to stay in Tulum! No, Tulum is not like most cities around the world. You’ll have a pretty important decision to make before your trip, and this complete guide to Tulum accommodation will explain everything you need to know to help make your decision smoother!

Most people find this difficult, but, trust me, figuring out where to stay in Tulum doesn’t need to be THAT hard. You just need to decide whether you want to be based in Downtown Tulum or on Tulum Beach. 

On my recent trip to Tulum, I stayed for two full weeks, basing myself in different hotels around the city. And today I want to share everything I learned about Tulum hotels and areas while I was there.

Let’s get started!

Best area to stay in Tulum – detailed breakdown

Tequila and mezcal in Tulum Mexico

When we travel, we usually decide where to stay based on a pretty hotel or a popular tourist area in the city – usually the city centre. But Tulum, even though not a large city, is pretty different from your usual destination aka it has a unique layout. I will explain everything you need to know about how Tulum is organised in areas and how to choose the best one for you (including a very explanatory map!) down below.

First of all, know that Tulum isn’t that big and you can easily get from point A to point B in 15-20 minutes, so your decision shouldn’t be that dramatic. It’s mostly about convenience and there are two main aspects to keep in mind: your budget and your interests during this trip.

In short, Tulum is made of two main areas: the small town called Tulum Town, Tulum Pueblo or Downtown Tulum and the beach road called Tulum Beach or Zona Hotelera. The distance between the two is more or less 5 km.

Ask yourself the following questions: Do I want to stay on the beach all day every day or do I also want to visit the local attractions such as the Mayan ruins and the cenotes? Do I want to experience Tulum’s local vibe and check out the small, traditional eateries and shops? Am I okay with getting around by bike or taxi almost every day, or do I prefer staying in the same place all the time and just minding my own business by my private pool? Do I want to splurge and stay in a luxury resort, or do I have a limited budget?

Once you’ve got your answers down, read the following explanations to find the best place to stay in Tulum for you! I will be talking about the 4 best areas to stay in Tulum in this article, as follows:

where to stay in tulum map
where to stay in tulum close to the beach

If you’re looking for an even more straight-forward list of recommendations, check this out:

This was just a short breakdown; now let me explain the PROs and CONs of staying in each of these areas, together with my hand-picked hotel recommendations, so I can make everything much easier for you!

By the way, if you want to know how easy it is to get around in Tulum, plus other useful information for your trip, click here to jump to my dedicated FAQ section.

NOTE: In recent years, Tulum has got pricier and pricier. It’s insane! Your budget should be an important point of discussion, as it will directly reflect your accommodation options as well. I personally found Tulum unrealistically expensive at times, especially if you decide to stay on the beach road. I’ve explained more about the costs of a Tulum vacation and my impressions on the subject in the beginning of this guide: 8 Unmissable Things to Do in Tulum, Mexico – Complete Guide & Tips

TIP: I wanted to leave this tip for the Questions and Tips section down below, but might as well say it right from the start: if you have a small budget but still want to experience everything Tulum has to offer, an excellent idea would be to divide your vacation in two: spend some of your nights in a hotel in Tulum Pueblo but also book one or two nights in a mid-range beach resort or cabana. This way you’ll get the best of both worlds without breaking the bank!

Best hotels in Tulum, Mexico – speedy recommendations

Ahau Hotel in Tulum Mexico
Azulik Hotel in Tulum Mexico

You know me, I love a good list! Here’s another useful one for you in case you want to quickly click-and-book your Tulum accommodation right now:

Where to stay in Tulum Hotel Zone

Tulum Beach accommodation
Tulum Hotel Zone

Tulum Beach or Tulum Hotel Zone is the main touristy area in the city where most travellers want to stay – or at least those that want to experience the most Instagrammable sites, cute and quirky cafes, boutique shops, exclusive clubs and restaurants and also have access to the insanely stunning beach. Important note right at the start: all this comes with a very high Tulum price tag though, so keep this in mind at all times!

The Hotel Zone is basically a long 10-km strip of beach, roughly bound at the north by the Tulum Ruins and at the south by Arco Maya National Park.

PROs:

CONs:

sunrise at tulum beach

The entire beach road is divided into three different zones as well: North Beach, Middle Beach and South Beach. Pretty straight-forward, right? Now, each one of these little zones comes with its own advantages, although all three are excellent candidates for a perfect vacation:

It takes 20 to 30 minutes to get from Tulum Town to the Hotel Zone with a bike (the most popular means of transportation there, now that the taxis have insane fees), depending on your exact destination, of course. Wondering if you can walk instead? Sure, but it will take you 1-2 hours, so… no.

TIP: Unfortunately, there are no dedicated bike lanes or street lights on the long road that goes alongside the beach, so if you’re staying in a beachfront hotel and want to cycle to the Pueblo (or the other way around), I’d recommend you do it before dark.

Best hotels in Tulum Hotel Zone

Hotel Selina in Tulum
tulum Hotel Zone

WHERE I STAYED

Coco Unlimited – Stunning! Although this accommodation is still expensive compared to most destinations, it’s an absolute bargain for Tulum, considering it’s one of the most popular luxury resorts around! It has gorgeous white washed walls, a beach front location, an on-site restaurant with cute swings in the sand. It’s a vibe!

BIG SPLURGE

LITTLE SPLURGE

MID-RANGE

BUDGET

GLAMPING

HOSTEL

Where to stay in Tulum Pueblo

Tulum Centro Streets
Tulum Pueblo

Compared to Tulum Beach, Tulum Centre has a lower price tag when it comes to everything from hotels to restaurants and even souvenir shops. Much lower! Which is why I’m recommending this area (me and everyone out there) as the place to stay if you’re on a tight budget, if you’re a backpacker or if you want a bit more of a local buzz. Downtown Tulum also has more dive bars, street food and cheap eateries up and down the high street.

PROs:

CONs:

Best places to stay in Tulum Town

Azura Boutique Hotel

WHERE I STAYED

I stayed at Azura Boutique Hotel, which offers SUCH good value for your own little mini apartment! Everything is super clean, nice, the staff is lovely and it also has a dipping outdoor pool and hangout area on the roof. Plus the location is absolutely great, it’s really easy to walk around all of Tulum centre from here. 

BIG SPLURGE

Coco Hacienda Tulum – If you want a gorgeous boutique hotel for your stay in Tulum Town, this is the best choice! I really believe this might be the best hotel in Tulum Town (or at least in the top 3 for sure). They have various room types such as bungalows, deluxe garden rooms, suites, suites with a hot tub and more. And everything looks absolutely Instagrammable and stunning!

LITTLE SPLURGE

Maka Hotel Boutique – This 5-star hotel located in the heart of  Tulum center has a pool, a restaurant, its own nightclub and restaurant. I’d go for the king suite with pool view if I were you, by the way – such good value!

MID-RANGE

Mimosa Tulum – This 3-star hotel in the centre of  Tulum Town is absolutely fabulous! They have free private parking, air conditioned rooms and family rooms as well, which I think is such a great advantage!

BUDGET

Joy Tulum – This is probably the best hotel in Tulum if you want something that’s both cheap and super quality. 3-star service, free private parking, free bikes and a location that’s walking distance to lots of restaurants and shops. And only 4 km away from the public beach!

HOSTEL

If you’re looking for the cheapest option for budget travelers that want to stay in Tulum, Hostel Oryx is one of the best choices. It has an excellent location (approx. 3.5 km away from Beach Town), as well as a shared kitchen, dry cleaning services, a pool and lots more. Really, such amazing service for a hostel!

Where to stay in Tulum Aldea Zama

aldea zama tulum

About Aldea Zama Tulum: Nestled perfectly between the Hotel Zone and Tulum Centre, Aldea Zama is one of Tulum’s newest and chicest neighbourhoods. A few years ago, it was just a construction site – but now you’ll find many high-end and boutique hotels here, as well as short stay apartments to rent (Airbnb ftw!). Plus enough cute cafes and eateries to choose from! Definitely recommended if you’re travelling with your family and kids as well.

The location is pretty awesome too – it’s close to both the town and the beach while also being quiet and laid-back.

PROs:

CONs:

Best hotels in Aldea Zama

Orchid House Tulum

BIG SPLURGE

Kimpton – Aluna Tulum – Fabulous 5-star hotel that seems taken out of an interior design magazine. They offer a gorgeous pool, beach club access in sister properties, gardens, an on-site spa, bikes for rent and (quite literally) everything in-between.

LITTLE SPLURGE

Orchid House TulumThis is one of the best boutique hotels if you’re looking for a ‘little’ splurge’ – in fact, it’s going to be a big splurge when it comes to the service, not the price. Seriously now, this hotel is so lush and luxurious, you’ll never want to leave the premises! But if you do, you’ll only be 2 km away from the public beach in Tulum!

MID-RANGE

Keej by NIIK Tulum – Located only 2.5 km away from the beach (Tulum Playa Paraiso or Las Palmas) this 4-star hotel comes at some pretty unbeatable rates. They also have free WiFi, an on-site restaurant, tour desk and family rooms as well!

BUDGET

Mediterraneo Hotel Tulum – Great 3-star hotel that looks exactly like a hacienda! Even though this property has low rates, they also have a swimming pool, a hot tub, a garden and more. It’s also around 3km from Beach Town, Paradise Beach and the famous Hotel Zone.

HOSTEL

Mayan Monkey Hotel & Hostel Tulum – An affordable hostel in one of the newest parts of Tulum? Yes, it is possible! This is a hotel-hostel combo located 2 km from Paradise Beach with air conditioning in each room. Plus, everything looks… simply incredible!

APARTMENT

Blue Luxury Kukulkan Apartments – In case you want a bit more privacy and comfort, then you can book an apartment – there are so many luxurious ones in this part of Tulum! I’m recommending this one because you can choose from a ‘regular’ apartment and a penthouse and both have a pool outside!

Where to stay in Tulum La Veleta

Central Park Resort & Spa Tulum

Here’s an area of Tulum that you won’t find in most travel guides on the internet! This new up-and-coming area in Tulum is located only 1 kilometre southwest from the city centre. Still, it’s not really popular with short-stay tourists. Instead, it’s a real hit among remote workers who are looking to settle down in Tulum for a while and among those looking for vacation rentals. Besides being well-priced, most accommodations here have good internet, which is something you won’t find a lot in Tulum in general, regardless if you’re in the centre or on the beach.

La Veleta has a nice vibe and safe feel, but there isn’t so much going on here just yet. However, it’s only a short bike / scooter drive away from all the action in Tulum Centre or on the beach road!

PROs:

CONs:

Best hotels in Tulum La Veleta

Tulum La Veleta
Holistika Tulum Mexico

BIG SPLURGE

Central Park Resort & Spa TulumThis is an incredible 5-star luxury hotel in La Veleta that offers gorgeous, spacious rooms, an on-site restaurant and gym, plus different activities. It’s also 3.4 km away from Tulum’s private beach. 

LITTLE SPLURGE

Hotel Holistika Tulum – This beautiful 4-star hotel is simply stunning, with an outdoor swimming pool and modern, stylish rooms. Even the restaurant looks super cool, as well as the common area!

MID-RANGE

Hotel Tiki Tiki Tulum – Modern and extremely stylish, this 4-star hotel has some pretty affordable rates and incredible service! By the way, they also offer bike hire on-site, so you can ride on Tulum beach road and reach the white sand beach in no time.

BUDGET

Luna Llena Tulum – If you’re looking for a reasonably priced accommodation that also has an outdoor pool, free WiFi and a tour desk as well, this one’s for you! Plus, the hotel is set in a tropical garden and it’s only 4 km away from the white sandy beaches.

APARTMENT

Hotel Panacea Tulum – well, technically this is an aparthotel, but it’s pretty stunning and you’ll feel exactly like in your own apartment in Tulum – which means you’ll have comfort and privacy, plus some pretty amazing amenities as well such as an on-site gym, an outdoor swimming pool, a terrace and more.

VILLA

Alicat Villas – In case you’re travelling in a group and you want to ditch the all-inclusive resorts and find your own personal piece of paradise instead, I highly recommend a villa. Alicat Villas offers a pool as well, which I think is extremely cool!

FAQs about staying in Tulum + My tips!

How expensive is Tulum

Now that you know everything about the best hotels in Tulum and the city’s unique layout, let me offer you some of my best tips and answer some popular questions that might help you plan your itinerary better:

How expensive is Tulum?

I’ve visited Tulum two times before – and a third time in March 2022. Since those first two trips, the prices in Tulum have become EXTORTIONATE. Like… I literally thought some people had gone insane with some of the prices they were attempting to charge. $40 for a 3-minute taxi ride. $3000 for a beachfront hotel – that’s insane!

Still, if you book your accommodation ahead of time and do your research properly (this guide you’re reading right now should offer plenty of good tips!), you should be good with a moderate budget.

If you’re on a tight budget but still want to visit Tulum, I’ve done my research and come up with this complete post on Free things to do in Tulum, Mexico that includes heaps of helpful tips on how to avoid the insane prices.

Is Tulum Town safe?

Tulum is a safe destination in general, although Zona Hotelera and Aldea Zama are safer than Downtown Tulum. Although it’s not happening regularly, there are occasional incidents with tourists in the city centre. But if you’re mindful of your behaviour and belongings, you’ll be just fine! I’m also recommending you to get good travel insurance for Mexico – SafetyWing is an excellent choice.

RELATED READ: 21 Best Cenotes in Tulum and How To Visit Them

renting a bike in tulum

How to get around in Tulum

If you’re not staying in the Hotel Zone, the most popular option is to rent a bike and get around the city – it’s what everyone is doing and counts as a fun activity too! You can get from Zona Hotelera to Tulum Town in 15 to 30 minutes depending on your destination. Plus, most hotels and resorts in Tulum offer free bikes for rent. Otherwise, the rates are around 200 MXN per day ($10) and you can rent them from many places, like iBike Tulum or Ola Bike Tulum.

Taxies are a pretty popular option as well, but the rates have gotten insane recently, which is why I’m not really recommending them if you have a choice.

When is the best time to visit Tulum

November to January is the best time to visit Tulum because it’s right before peak season (when the prices go way higher) and right after hurricane season, which is a no-go. I have explained more on the subject in this article: 8 Unmissable Things to Do in Tulum, Mexico – Complete Guide & Tips

How long to stay in Tulum

I spent 2 entire weeks in Tulum and I never felt bored, mostly because I loved spending my days on the beach, exploring the natural wonders and finding cute eateries for authentic Mexican food. If you’re planning a more extensive trip around Mexico, then I’d recommend you reserve at least 3 days for Tulum, so you can get to explore everything you might have on your list. Otherwise, one week would be just perfect.

8 Unmissable Things to Do in Tulum, Mexico - Complete Guide & Tips

RELATED READ: 23 Best Tulum Instagram Spots: A Photo Guide

Can I surf in Tulum?

Tulum isn’t a great destination for traditional surf; instead, there are some pretty great spots on the beach if you want to try some windsurfing or kitesurfing.

Which one to choose: Tulum or Playa del Carmen?

Although tourists all over the world seem to prefer Tulum for the perfect beach vacation, I’m also strongly recommending Playa del Carmen too, mostly because prices in Tulum have gotten really crazy recently. It’s true, the beaches in Tulum are better and more beautiful, but if budget is one of your concerns, then Playa del Carmen is definitely more affordable. It’s also bigger and more touristic, which means more hotel, restaurant and shopping options.

Which one to choose: Tulum or Cancun?

Cancun has its own airport (Cancun International Airport), so if you’re short on time and looking for convenience regarding transportation, I’d say to go for it. On the other side, Tulum offers some pretty awesome Mayan ruins to explore and better beaches too.

RELATED READ: Free Things to Do in Tulum, Mexico

This was my complete guide that offers all my answers to (probably) the most important question about this destination: where to stay in Tulum? Is it better to stay on Tulum Beach or in Tulum Town? What other areas can I choose from? 

After visiting Tulum recently, I did my best to write this post and address the most popular concerns among travellers – and I really hope you found this post to be useful! I’ve compared Tulum Town to the Hotel Zone, offered PROs and CONs for each one of them (and two other less popular areas in the city) and I’ve also shared with you my hand-picked list of recommended hotels by budget. So regardless if you’re a backpacker or a tourist looking for a big splurge with everything that Tulum has to offer, I’m pretty sure you’ve already found the perfect hotel for you in this post!

In case you need more help with planning your vacation in Tulum, I recommend clicking here to find all my posts about this unique destination. And here you can find all my articles and stories about Mexico in general.

xoxo,

Melissa

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Best Places to stay in Tulum Mexico
Where to stay in Tulum Mexico

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8 Unmissable Things to Do in Tulum, Mexico – Complete Guide & Tips

For all of you that are looking for a complete guide that includes all the best things to do in Tulum (and some bonus underrated activities as well), the best hotels and restaurants plus TONS of useful info about how to get to the city and how to get around, you are in the right place. My Tulum guide below will cater to all your needs, that’s a promise!

I’m super excited to tell you everything I know about Tulum because I’ve been there on my most recent trip. I had a 1-month trip to Mexico, with 2 weeks spent in Playa del Carmen and 2 weeks in Tulum. And I can say that Tulum has my heart!

In fact, I’ve been to Tulum a few times before, in 2018 and 2016, and I have always looooved the vibe of Tulum – it’s a real tropical paradise! With the jungle so close to the beach and the insanely beautiful blue waters, incredible Mexican food and wild nightlife – what is not to love?

I’ll tell you.. the prices. The prices are not to love.

How expensive is Tulum? What to expect

how expensive is tulum

Since my first trip (and even my second), the prices in Tulum have become EXTORTIONATE. Like… I literally thought some people had gone insane with some of the prices they were attempting to charge. $40 for a 3-minute taxi ride. $3000 for a beachfront hotel – It was. literally. Insane.

Still! Tulum is beautiful, and there are ways of doing it on a budget, so this isn’t meant to deter you – it’s simply to warn you to be vigilant!

And if you want to talk numbers, the average price for one day spent in Tulum is around $80 per person and you can expect the cost of a Tulum vacation for an entire week for a couple to be around $1.200 if you’re a regular mid-range traveller.

TIP: If you’re on a tight budget but still want to visit Tulum, I’ve done my research and come up with this complete post on Free things to do in Tulum, Mexico that includes heaps of helpful tips on how to avoid the insane prices.

Okay, now let’s find out more about this unique destination and my personal selection of unmissable things to do in Tulum for first-time visitors!

Quick info about Tulum, Mexico

Melissa standing in the middle of Tulum Centro Streets
Tulum Beach

Tulum was once a (rather boring) fishing village, now transformed into one of the hottest travel destinations in the world. So hot that even celebrities are choosing to visit Tulum to relax and take a dip into its turquoise waters! And with soft white beaches, tons of gorgeous cenotes (more about this below), boutique shops and incredible restaurants, it’s quite easy to understand why.

Tulum has a rich history as well. It was the last great, ancient Mayan city that was built between the 13th and 15th century. It’s a place where Mayan gods were adored – and the well-preserved Mayan ruins and their surrounding sites are standing proof of Tulum’s past and Maya civilization.

Combine that with striking natural wonders, spiritual centres and incredible resorts and you’ll end up with a wonderful place where both past and present collide. That’s Tulum in a nutshell!

And now a bit of technical info about how Tulum is structured. Tulum is divided into 3 (very) different areas and all of them are called ‘Tulum’, which can get a bit confusing at first, especially if you’re visiting the city for the very first time. Here they are, explained:

  1. Tulum Town aka Tulum Pueblo / El Centro – this is the place where locals live. It’s also a more affordable place where you can find Mexican restaurants, cafes and stores. This area is often called just Tulum.
  2. Tulum Beach aka Tulum Hotel Zone / Zona Hotelera – this is the touristic part of the city where all the resorts and beaches are located
  3. Tulum Ruins / Archaeological Zone – an attraction per se, this part of the city is located north of Downtown Tulum and the Hotel Zone

If things are still confusing for you, here’s a map of Tulum that I made in order to help picture it:

Tulum map

Where is Tulum located?

Tulum is located on the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico, in the state of Quintana Roo. It’s right in the centre of Riviera Maya in the Caribbean Sea. By car, you can reach Tulum in less than 2 hours from Cancun and 45 minutes from Playa del Carmen.

where is tulum located

For detailed information about how to get to Tulum, head over to my dedicated section here.

8 Top things to do in Tulum

If you’re up for an adventure, you’ll quickly find out that there are endless things to do in Tulum that will keep you busy for more than one whole week! But if you’re only on a short visit or it’s your first time setting foot on this wonderful Carribean destination, make sure you don’t miss any of the following activities in Tulum:

1 – Shop the boutique stalls

Things to do in Tulum boutique stalls
Things to do in Tulum boutique stalls

It’s no secret that Tulum is a place full of awesome shops and boutique stalls selling anything from clothes to furniture, accessories and Mexican handcrafts. You’ll find shops both in Tulum Town and on the beach area, the latter being a bit more expensive. 

Speaking of prices… Although there are some amazing clothes, jewellery, bags, etc that can be bought in Tulum, be warned – they’re very pretty but very pricey. They practice Western prices here!

Some nice shops to check out in Tulum are Pura Vida Tulum, La Pulga Boutique, La Troupe and Wanderlust. For home decor, head over to Kaahal Home Tulum.

NOTE: Tulum is not the place to buy cheap souvenirs / local goods. They increase the prices by up to 50% just because they are on this part of the coast. If you’re looking to shop and buy some of those cute crochet Tulum cover-ups or beach-style dresses, I recommend heading over to Playa del Carmen – which is still a touristy area, but you’ll be paying significantly less! Cancun is also a good choice for cheap souvenirs, as well as Merida (although the latter is further away).

2 – Visit a Cenote (or 7)

Cenote in Tulum Mexico
Cenote in Tulum Mexico

Cenotes are stunning, natural deep-water sinkholes. They’re like little blue holes of water carved in limestone and they look like an underground cave. Cenotes are typical to Mexico, they’re scattered all over the Yucatan Peninsula and are not to be missed! Luckily, some of the best ones are located in the proximity of Tulum and some of the activities that you can do there include swimming, diving, snorkelling or taking some incredible pictures.

Below are my favourites:

RELATED READ: This was just a brief introduction into the wonderful world of cenotes. For more information, I recommend reading my dedicated post: Best Cenotes to Visit in Tulum, Mexico

3 – Take a day trip to Chichen Itza

day trip to Chichen Itza

Taking a day trip to the famous Chichen Itza is one of the best things to do in Tulum – well, actually a bit outside of it, but it’s still high up on my list!

Besides being the most visited ancient Mayan ruins site in the entirety of Mexico, it is also one of the New 7 Wonders of the World and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It only takes two hours by car to reach it from Tulum and it’s definitely a must-visit. Seriously, you can’t go to Mexico and simply ignore Chichen Itza!

I did this day trip myself during my first trip – we rented a car and made a whole day of it. Our first stop was Cenote Suy Tun (so stunning), then we went on to Chichen Itza. On our way back to Tulum, we stopped in Valladolid for lunch and to explore the town. Perfecto! 👌

Chichen Itza Mayan Ruins Mexico

In case you don’t/can’t rent a car, there are also lots of organised tours available. Here are two of the best ones I could find departing from Tulum:

PRICE: Entrance to the ancient ruins is 533 MXN (around $26) per person.

RELATED READ: 23 Best Tulum Instagram Spots: A Photo Guide

4 – Beach day – obviously!

Beach day in Tulum Mexico
Beach day in Tulum Mexico

I’d say it goes without saying that a day spent on one of the gorgeous beaches or clubs should be one of the top things to do in Tulum for everyone. In fact, it is said that Tulum has some of the best beaches in Mexico!

Although the beaches in Tulum are super popular, only a few of them are truly accessible to the public, the rest being taken over and “offered out” by resorts or beach clubs. In order to briefly explain it, there are three ways in which you can experience Tulum’s beaches:

  1. stay in one of Tulum’s resorts or beach hotels – The Hotel Zone is full of them and, although you can walk anywhere once you’re on a beach, technically beach access can only be found through them if you stay there or pay a small fee. These beachfront hotels are way more expensive than the ones downtown, but that seems to be the cost to be staying literally on the beach.
  2. visit one of the public beaches – Las Palmas, Playa Paraiso and Playa Ruinas are the only three beaches to choose from with public access. However, once you’re on the beach, you can walk down the playa and set up camp at any spot – every beach is technically public and not owned by any hotel. Make sure you bring your own towel and some snacks, though. By the way, it is said that Playa Paraiso is one of the best ones in Tulum and it also has beach bars and clubs.
  3. visit one of the beach clubs – in case you found the public beaches to be too crowded or you don’t want to pay exorbitant prices for a beachfront hotel either, a middle solution would be to spend the day at one of the beach clubs. They typically have loungers, cocktails, good local food and everything else you might need for a perfect day on the beach.
Tulum Beach Mexico

Here are some of the best beach clubs in Tulum that I really enjoyed:

NOTE #1: Whenever you want to swim on a beach in Tulum, pay attention to the flags. Black means don’t swim, red flag means danger, yellow means caution and green means that it’s completely safe to swim. Also, pay even more attention if you’re going to a remote beach, as they don’t have flags at all.

NOTE #2: One thing most people don’t say about Tulum is that the coastline can sometimes get hit with a seaweed invasion. When this happens, the white sandy beaches are not that white and beautiful anymore, as you can imagine. This is a natural phenomena in Mexico and there’s nothing you can do about it – just pray that you won’t be that unlucky!

RELATED READ: Best Beaches and Beach Clubs in Tulum, Mexico

5 – Explore the Tulum Mayan ruins

Tulum Mayan Ruins
Tulum Mayan Ruins

Although these are definitely not the most impressive ruins in the Yucatan, a great advantage is that they’re situated on a hill right in Tulum, so they’re super easy to get to. These 13th-century ruins also offer an incredible view of the ocean and the beach – pretty cool! In fact, the Tulum Ruins (also known as Tulum Archaeological Zone) are very close to Playa Paraiso, only 700m away.

PRICE: 85 MXN (around $4.20) per person. Photography fee is 45 MXN ($2.20). If you’re going with a car, you must park in the shopping centre’s parking lot and the price is 30 MXN ($1.50).

TIP: Make sure you don’t leave your visit to the Tulum Ruins for lunchtime or the end of the day, as you’ll encounter lots of tourist buses and huge crowds. Try to visit early in the morning instead. The site opens at 8 AM, but I recommend arriving 1 hour earlier.

6 – Rent a bike!

renting a bike in tulum

Make sure you rent a bike for the duration of your stay – taxis charge astronomical prices and it’s so, so easy to cycle everywhere in Tulum. Plus, it’s a fun activity per se!

Biking around Tulum and between the Beach Zone and El Centro is super easy (and it only takes 15 to 30 minutes) – it’s the thing that everyone does. Another great advantage is that some hotels offer free bikes and there are also dedicated large bike baths that you can use. In case your hotel doesn’t offer this service, you can rent a bike from iBike Tulum or Ola Bike Tulum.

PRICE: around 200 MXN per day ($10).

7 – Join a Temazcal ritual

Temazcal in Tulum Mexico

In case you’re looking for unique things to do in Tulum, here’s my recommendation: a Temazcal ritual. This is the thing to do if you want to get a glimpse of real Mayan / Mexican culture and traditions!

In short, a Temazcal ritual is a Mayan ceremony of purification during which you sit in a traditional, tiny sweat lodge made of stone or wood that looks like a huge pizza oven. It’s pretty similar to a sauna: you enter the sweat lodge (called ‘temazcal’), which is heated by hot rocks and water.

A local shaman pours water over the rocks while singing a chant and summoning spirits, and everything happens in complete darkness. During this time, you should enter a state of meditation and calmness. It is said that the Temazcal ritual is meant to clean your body and mind and it’s been performed since ancient times.

Even if you’re sceptical if this ritual is effective or not, you can approach it with an open mind. After all, it’s still an interesting thing to do and it makes a great story to tell back home!

Some accommodations even have their own temazcal on-site. Two hotels that do good rituals and that I can recommend are Nomade and Holistika.

NOTE: You must wear your swimwear (or underwear) for this ritual.

8 – Visit Tulum Pueblo (El Centro)

Tulum Pueblo murals

You may remember that I explained above (right here) about how Tulum is structured into three different zones. Tulum Pueblo, also known as El Centro or Tulum Town is an attraction per se for all those that want to get away from the shiny, touristy, overpriced part of the city and get a glimpse of real, raw Mexican life. Which is why I think it’s one of the best things to do in Tulum, even though I left it as last on my list!

This is where you’ll find some authentic, more affordable shops and restaurants. You can visit Tulum Pueblo to take a walk, drink a cup of coffee or grab a bite of authentic Mexican food. Make sure you don’t miss the Main Ave, Calle Centauro Sur and their surrounding streets and search for their hidden gems.

BONUS: More things to do in Tulum if you have more time

things to do in Tulum

Above was my list of unmissable things to do in Tulum, especially if you’re a first-time visitor. Now, if you’re staying for more than 3-4 days or if it’s your second visit to this destination, it’s time to delve deeper. Here are some extra things to do in Tulum that you can add to your itinerary:

Tequila and mezcal in Tulum Mexico

RELATED READ: Free Things to Do in Tulum, Mexico

Top Tulum tours and organised excursions

Top tours in Tulum
Best Tulum Tours

Tulum is a great destination where you can rent a bike or a car and easily create your own itinerary inside and around town. But in case you want to keep it simple, avoid too much organisation or just prefer organised tours in general, I have some excellent options for you below:

Where to stay in Tulum, Mexico

where to stay in tulum
best hotels in tulum mexico

RELATED READ: Where to Stay in Tulum, Mexico – Downtown vs Hotel Zone

Because Tulum is divided into two main areas: Zona Hotelera and Tulum Downtown / Centre, I will offer you recommendations for both of them. Just note that, just like for restaurants and shops, the hotels in the hotel zone are way more expensive than the ones downtown – and they’re usually all-inclusive resorts.

WHERE TO STAY IN TULUM BEACH / ZONA HOTELERA:

BIG SPLURGE: Hotel Ma’xanab Tulum – 5-star hotel with world-class service, located right on South Tulum Beach.

LITTLE SPLURGE: Coco Limited – Where I stayed! They have a great beach location, the hotel is super cute and it doesn’t break the bank (unlike other beachside hotels in Tulum!)

BUDGET: Selina Tulum – especially good if you’re a family on a budget. Ahau Tulum Hotel is also a good choice.

GLAMPING: Cinco – only 350m from Playa Paraiso

HOSTEL: Mayan Monkey Hostel – really affordable and it also has an outdoor swimming pool!

WHERE TO STAY IN TULUM TOWN / TULUM CENTRO:

BIG SPLURGE: Hotel Bardo – 5-star hotel with suites. Each of them has a private pool and a balcony as well!

LITTLE SPLURGE: Azura Boutique Hotel – I stayed here (twice) and I could not recommend it enough! The location is right in the centre and everything feels super safe. You get an entire apartment which is clean, cosy and modern. They also have a rooftop dipping pool and the staff are all so lovely and kind!

BUDGET: Hotel Central Station – 3-star hotel with clean and nicely decorated rooms, an ATM, free Wi-Fi and more. They also have family rooms!

GLAMPING: Huaya Camp – luxury tents for a great price, with free private parking included

HOSTEL: Hostel Oryx – amazing hostel with a shared kitchen, dry cleaning service and an outdoor swimming pool as well!

Best restaurants in Tulum, Mexico

Best food in Tulum Mexico
Where to eat in Tulum

Okay, if you’ve been reading some other blog posts of mine, you may already know: I love food. And Tulum, for me, was an absolutely foodie’s paradise! So many incredible dishes, so many cute places to go out, I just had to share all MY FAVOURITE Tulum restaurants with you!

NOTE: One thing to know right from the start: Tulum center is much, much cheaper than the hotel road. Miles cheaper.

BREAKFAST / BRUNCH

Del Cielo – This place has such a cute vibe and great food too! Unfortunately, they don’t take reservations and they are pretty popular, so oftentimes you’ll have to wait for a table. Don’t worry, they have a cosy, little waiting area, but be prepared for it.

LOCAL LUNCH

Taqueria La Chiapaneca – This is THE place to go and get cheap, delicious, local tacos. You’ll notice it’s always busy, so you know it’s good!

DOWNTOWN DINNER

Encanto Cantina – Ahh, the vibe, the decor, the food – such a cute spot for dinner. My favourite date night location in town for sure!

STREET FOOD

ATTENTION! This was the best burrito I ever ate in my LIFE! And I am not being paid to say this! Literally, I don’t even know the name of this amazing little burrito stall, but it pops up at this location nightly (6PM – 10PM) and I swear to you – it’s a game changer! Super affordable and insanely delicious. They use a recipe from the region of Chiwawa – so you’ll find no added rice or beans, and way more filling, along with a choice of insanely delicious sauces… Tell them Melissa says hi and thank me later!

food in mexico tulum

CHEAP EATS

Cinco was amazingly affordable for a beachside lunch!  

ULTIMATE DINNER VIBES

If you’re going all out for dinner, then you want to head to Rosa Negra! It was SUCH a vibe: think all the Tulum gimmicks – dancing on the tables, handing out sparklers, dancers – just such a good place to set the tone for the night! But it’s more than that, the menu was soooo good, each dish and drink was a work of A R T! I was obsessed with their Besugo Sashimi. Oh, and make sure you leave room for dessert!

Other places that I LOVE that you have to add to your list include: 

RELATED READ: Okay, I am such a lover of all the Mexican food I ate in Tulum that I can’t even contain it! This is why I wrote this dedicated post: Best Places to Eat in Tulum 

Best day trips from Tulum

coba ruins in mexico

I know I mentioned some of these options above, but I’ll suggest them again in this complete list of things to do near Tulum:

You can find more options for places to visit in Mexico in this section down below.

How to get to Tulum, Mexico

Tulum, Mexico

Being such a popular travel destination, Tulum is easily accessible from different parts of Mexico. Here are your options:

BY PLANE

Tulum doesn’t currently have an airport, although the plan is for one to open in 2023 (and a train too). Right now, the closest one is Cancun International Airport, located 120 km / a bit less than 2 hours from Tulum. Once you arrive at Cancun Airport, you can easily find an ADO bus (much cheaper) to take you to the Tulum Centre or Hotel Zone for around 300 MXN / $15.

BY RENTAL CAR

In case you’re planning a longer trip around Mexico, the best idea would be to rent a car. You can pick up your rented car right at Cancun Airport and then head over to Tulum Town, which is around 90 minutes away. One note here: the traffic along the famous beach road in Tulum can be insane at times, especially during high season. Make sure you’re paying lots of attention on the road and don’t drive too fast!

BY TAXI

A local taxi is also an alternative, although I’m not very eager to recommend it, as the prices can be a crazy high. If this is your only option, make sure you negotiate the price before taking the ride.

BY BUS

Although not the fastest, this is definitely the cheapest way to reach Tulum. You can take a bus to Tulum from Cancun and Playa del Carmen. I, once again, recommend the local ADO buses, as they’re the cheapest.

My best Tulum travel tips

Tulum travel tips
tips for travelling to tulum

Of course, I couldn’t let you go without telling you my most precious travel tips for Tulum, right? Here’s what you need to keep in mind:

Or you can save yourself some pennies by reading my dedicated post on the subject: Free things to do in Tulum

Other places in Mexico to add to your itinerary

Mexico itinerary

In case you’re planning a real adventure in Mexico, here are some other AMAZING places on the Yucatan Peninsula to add to your bucket list:

Aaaand here is the ultimate Tulum travel guide, aka one of the most popular destinations on the Yucatan Peninsula, in Mexico’s Riviera Maya!

If you’re planning on visiting Tulum soon, I’m absolutely convinced that this guide will come in handy, as I tried to include everything I learned when I visited Tulum myself recently! You’ll find the best things to do in Tulum here – from famous archaeological sites and Mayan ruins to the beaches, natural wonders, snorkelling and scuba diving, cenotes and more, plus lots of useful info about restaurants, hotels and everything in-between. 

If you need more information that will help you plan your itinerary around Mexico, click here to find all my stories and articles about this vibrant country. And here you’ll find all the other blog posts about Tulum.

xoxo,

Melissa

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9 Things to Do in York, England – Complete Guide to the City

York is one of the best destinations for a city break or a weekend getaway in England. It’s a super charming city full of many incredible things to see and do, as well as places to eat or grab a drink. In case you were looking for a complete city guide that includes all the top things to do in York, as well as the best tours, restaurants and more useful info, you’ll find everything in the article below! It includes everything you need to know before you visit York!

I was in York at the beginning of this year for a 4-day trip and I really loved it! York is super cute and walkable – you can see the entirety of inside the city walls in a day.

But my recommendation is to book a whole weekend away to York – this is kind of a perfect scenario for anyone that is looking for a relaxed getaway.

Okay, let’s dive right into it!

Quick info about York, UK

Is York worth visiting, really? My honest answer is: YES! Definitely! York is a place of rich history and culture where you will find charming streets, cute shops and eateries and interesting museums everywhere you look. Plus frequent festivals and events for those of you that are in for a bit of extra fun!

Trust me, there are so many things to do in York! From the impressive York Minster (which is, basically, one of the most well-known York attractions) to the entire stone wall that circles the city, tons of Harry Potter sites, chocolate tours, ghost walks, fine dining restaurants, historic homes and some cute parks, you can already understand that York caters to all types of travellers out there!

RELATED READ: 7 Best Leeds Attractions + Restaurants, Hotels And More (England)

Where is York located?

York is located in North Yorkshire, in the northern part of England. It is only 35 km (22 miles) away from Leeds, another cute city that I really enjoyed.

Here’s a map of York so you can better understand its location:

map of York UK

9 Best things to do in York, UK

Below you will find my list of the best things to do in York – these are things that any first-time visitor should check out (if time allows) in order to completely understand the charm of this city.

TIP: One thing to know right from the start: if you’re planning to visit most of the popular attractions in York, a very good idea would be to buy a York Pass. It’s an excellent way to save on costs – it includes more than 45 things to visit in York and around. I’ll talk about it in more detail in this special section below.

1 – Take a York city tour

River Ouse in York UK

Whenever I land in a relatively small, walkable city, one of the first things I do is take a stroll around or book a city tour. I think it’s one of the best ideas if you’re eager to find out more about the city you’re going to spend the following days in right from the start!

This is especially true when it comes to a historic city such as York – the city was founded by the Romans after all! And the best part about it is that you have so many options to choose from – from the classic Hop On Hop Off buses to themed York walking tours on the gorgeous cobbled streets – ghost walks, chocolate tours, boat cruises, Harry Potter tours, a cat trail and many, many more.

I won’t get into detail about them here because you’ll find my complete list of recommended tours of York in this section down below.

NOTE: Alternatively, if you want to experience Leeds from a different perspective, I recommend taking a ride in one of the yellow water taxis. The price is only £1/person/journey and it takes you from Leeds Docks to Granary Wharf. More information on their website here. There is also a shorter, free taxi boat from Leeds Docks.

2 – Walk the city wall – The Bar Walls

The York Wall
Exploring York Wall, Yorkshire

One thing you will notice right after you set foot in York is its impressive stone walls. The Bar Walls is the official name for the thick stone walls that go all around the city. These were once Roman fortifications that protected York, now transformed into one of the most interesting “York things” to do and one of the best-preserved city walls in all of England.

Although incomplete, walking around the city on these walls is an excellent option for those in search of free things to do in York city centre – and it will only take around 2 hours (3.4 km). Plus, the view over the famous Minster from the walls is worth the effort.

The walls are free to visit and open from 8:00 AM ‘till sunset. Bad weather conditions or repairs might make them inaccessible to explore. You can check out a map of the trail here.

RELATED READ: London Neighborhood Guide – 14 Best Areas for Tourists Chosen by a Local

3 – Visit the impressive cathedral – York Minster

York, England in the UK
York Minster in Yorkshire, England

Except for being one of the best things to do in York, York Minster is also one of the most magnificent cathedrals in the entire world, towering over all the buildings in the city – heck, you can see it from literally everywhere you go! And continuing with the fun facts about the impressive building that is York Minster, I must also say that it is the second biggest Gothic cathedral in Northern Europe – how cool is that?

Construction began in 1230 and it “only” took 250 years to build, so you can rest assured that you’re walking inside a piece of history with its gorgeous stained glass windows and well-preserved artefacts.

Except for admiring it from the outside and a visit inside, you can also step into the crypt of York Minster or climb its central tower. One thing to note, though: there are 275 steps to the top in a narrow, steep spiral stairway, but the view is definitely worth it!

PRICE: £12.50/adult, free for kids under 16. Ticket is valid for a full year after your first visit. There is an extra fee if you want to go up to the tower (£18,50 for the cathedral + tower). Book your ticket in advance here.

TIP: If you’re into cathedral-related things, make sure you don’t miss the details on the Great East Window. It’s the biggest mediaeval stained glass in the world and it is definitely gorgeous.

4 – Shop on York’s most famous street – The Shambles

The Shambles in York
The Shambles York

Ask any English person about York, and they will tell you about The Shambles. This is definitely one of the most famous streets in the city – it is actually a pedestrianised shopping street dating from medieval times and it is also one of the best-preserved ones in Europe!

I recommend at least a short stroll on this street to admire the cute storefronts and façades. And if you’re looking for a little bit of (grime) history, know that these streets were once scattered with slaughterhouses instead of shops… Just York things! But hey, at least it’s been transformed into something nice now!

In the event that you want to hang around for longer, you can enter one of the 85 shops, drink a coffee in one of the cute cafes or grab a beer at Ye Old Shambles Tavern. Except for the iconic shops, at the Shambles Market you can find lots of stalls selling goodies and fresh produce.

TIP: There are no less than four Harry Potter-themed shops to explore on The Shambles, as well as a “Ghost Shop”. More info in the Harry Potter section below!

FUN FACT: Although I’m not sure this is 100% true, it is said that The Shambles is the inspiration behind Diagon Alley in the Harry Potter books and movies. It’s just as narrow, wonky and wonderful!

5 – Admire the spectacular view from the top of Clifford’s Tower

Clifford’s Tower in York England

Clifford’s Tower is located right in the city centre and, together with York Minster, it is considered one of the unmissable things to do in York.

Clifford’s Tower is a big piece of history in the city (part of the English Heritage) and it was a true symbol of power – it is one of the few remains of York Castle, which was built by William the Conqueror. Since then, it was burned down not once, but twice, and then rebuilt in the 13th century.

The tower also has a bit of a… sad history. Its name comes from Roger de Clifford, who was hanged for treason in 1322 right here. Hey, I told you that York has a gruesome history, right?

The truth is that there aren’t any very interesting things to see inside and most visitors just go there to climb to the top of the tower. The view from the top is pretty cool, you can see not only York Minster, but as far as North York Moors National Park!

PRICE: £9/adult. No need to book your ticket in advance, but you can do so here.

RELATED READ: Your Camden Town Guide – How to Explore This London Neighbourhood

6 – See the ruins of St. Mary’s Abbey

St. Mary’s Abbey in York England
St. Mary’s Abbey in York England

St. Mary’s Abbey is part of the York Museum Gardens (which I am recommending in the “Free things to do in York” section below) and, for history lovers, it is a wonderful thing to see. You can only see the ruins now of what once was the wealthiest Benedictine monastery in the UK.

The original church was built in 1055 and you can still see its surrounding walls and the places where the monks used to pray, sing, wash their clothes and more.

PRICE: York Museum Gardens have a free entrance, including St. Mary’s Abbey

7 – Harry Potter everywhere

The Shop That Must Not Be Named in York England
the shambles street in york

York is an extra special place for all Harry Potter fans out there. There are many spots around the city that have inspired or have been inspired by the Harry Potter series.

In fact, one of the scenes from Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone was filmed here – at York Railway Station, where you can see the famous Platform 9 ¾ (yes, the original platform used in the first film is in York, not Kings Cross!).

Here are some magical HP activities and places to visit in York:

8 – Weird/wonderful thing to do – Visit the Ghost Shop Merchant

The York Ghost Merchants
© Image: Yorkshire Wonders

I didn’t know what this was, but I kept seeing massive queues outside this shop. On day 3 I asked someone (because, actually, this massive queue was there all day, every day, preventing me from getting a cool photo of the Shambles! Haha – which I never got btw!). So – basically, this shop sells… souls. 👀  Weird? Yes. Bizarre? Completely. Intriguing? Tell me more!

To really understand the traditional process of creating these little handmade ghost figures (which are said to hold a ‘spirit’), well.. you need to go into the shop and see for yourself!

The shop is on the Shambles, at no. 6. Find the location on Google Maps here.

9 – York’s Chocolate Story

York's Chocolate Story experience
© Image: York’s Chocolate Story

I just left the best for last – an activity for all chocolate lovers out there! Did you know that York’s past is tightly connected with… chocolate? The city has a long, 3.000 years-long chocolate-making history and it is the place where Rowntree’s (known as Nestlé nowadays) and Terry’s were founded.

The York Chocolate Story is an interactive guided tour during which you will learn all about York’s chocolate-making history, as well as the origins of chocolate itself and how to properly taste a chocolate bar like a connaisseur.

Of course, you will also get to indulge in sweet samples at the end – the best part of any chocolate tour, right? I definitely recommend tasting the hot chocolate as well, it is said to be the best one in town!

PRICE: £15.95/adults and £13.50/kids. Book your guided tour here. If you’re looking for more, they also have a tour + truffle rolling workshop – more details here.

TIP: Alternatively, if you want to make your own chocolate bar, you can do so at York Cocoa Works. Price is £19.50 per participant. More details here.

FUN FACT: No less than six million Kit-Kats are produced in York each and every day!

BONUS #1: 4 More free things to do in York

free things to do in York

Although I have mentioned a couple of free things to do in York above (the Shambles, the city wall and St. Mary’s Abbey), there are a couple more activities worth mentioning for all those of you looking to save a penny during your trip:

1 – The Museum Gardens

You may remember I mentioned the ruins of St. Mary’s Abbey before. These are part of a bigger museum complex called The Museum Gardens in York, all free to visit. There’s also the award-winning Yorkshire Museum to visit here for archeology fans and sometimes there are also events happening.

Even if you’re not planning on entering any of the sites here, the gardens are pretty vast and gorgeous by themselves (you can spot up to 40 species of birds!) and an excellent spot to have a picnic.

2 – National Railway Museum

The National Railway Museum in York is a very good spot for the entire family, regardless if you’re trainspotters or not! The museum offers plenty of things to see – more than 1 million pieces on display and more than 100 locomotives (including royal ones) and it is also the largest railway museum in England.

Don’t forget to take a ride on the mini-railway outside the National Railway Museum – the little ones will surely love it!

3 – Rowntree Park

For those looking for a couple of hours of peace and quiet and one of the best things to do in York for families, Rowntree Park is the perfect choice for those with kids. There are cute gardens here, as well as ducks and geese. For the little ones there’s also a dedicated playground and a skate park, and adults and older kids can enjoy the mini golf or basketball court.

TIP: If you’re an avid fan of mini golf, you can go to Puttstars Mini Golf as well!

4 – Yorkshire Lavender

If you don’t mind going a bit outside of York (24 km / 15 miles away), Yorkshire Lavender is the perfect place for flower lovers. You’ll find a lavender farm, a lavender maze and some beautiful gardens there that have received numerous awards over time.

There’s also some white deer there, as well as lambs and cattle – so cute! I also recommend going on the hill nearby for a gorgeous view over the Vale of York.

BONUS #2: 9 Extra things to do in York if you have more time

york castle museum

For those of you that are not on your first visit to the city, I have prepared a short list of extra things to do in York. Who knows, maybe this will be your perfect excuse to go and see York again!

Merchant Adventurers' Hall in York

My no. 1 tip: Buy a York Pass

explore with the york pass

I briefly mentioned the York Pass at the beginning of this article; now it’s time to get into the details. The York Pass is an excellent choice for all travellers that plan on visiting a substantial number of attractions in York, including the surrounding region of North Yorkshire.

I know some city passes out there are not worth the money, it has happened to me before. But, in my opinion, this is not the case with the York city pass.

It includes more than 45 attractions – most of the best things to do in York, actually, which means places that were on your list anyway! Plus additional discounts for restaurants, taxis and more. For me, one of the best things about this pass is that you can download it on your phone and easily use it as you go around and explore York.

The price for an adult York Pass is £55 for one day, £70 for two days and £85 for three days and it also has a 24-hour Hop On Hop Off bus included.

Let’s make a short calculation to see if it’s really worth it or not, shall we? Let’s say you want to buy the York Pass for one adult for two days. Your standard itinerary may include the following top attractions + prices:

The total for all these activities is £83. The pass is £70 for two days. Win! Also, the value increases if you buy it for 3 days and add more activities to your itinerary.

Best York tours

Things to do in York
Best York Tours

Ah, there are so many guided tours in York, and all of them are so different from each other! Below are some of my favourites:

1 – Guided walking tours – this is one of the best things to do in York and you have so many options here! My recommendation is this one that will take you to all the main attractions and tell you lots of info about York’s history.

2 – York Ghost Walk Tour – an iconic York tour if you want to find out the events of the city’s past! The Original Ghost Walk of York is £7.50 and you can book it here.

3 – The Bloody Tour of York – an alternative to the ghost walk, this one will help you explore York’s history of criminals, kings, queens and even Guy Fawkes. The tour is hosted by a girl called “mad Alice” and it’s a really unique experience. It has even won awards! Btw, they also have a ‘Bloody York Gin tour’ if you want to add some booze into your experience.

4 – Harry Potter Tour – unmissable for any HP fan out there. Book yours for £10 here (btw, this one sells out super fast, so make sure to reserve in advance!)

5 – York Cat Trail – free self-guided tour specifically tailored for cat lovers – soooo cute and great for kids!

6 – Hop On Hop Off bus – if you’re a fan of this activity (I know I am!), you can book a 24-hour bus pass for York for only £16 here.

7 – River Ouse city cruises York – River Ouse offers a picturesque way to discover the city on the water, including its most iconic attractions such as Clifford’s Tower. I recommend booking an early evening cruise, you will catch the beautiful sunset light! Book your city cruise for £12.50 here.

8 – Drive your own boat down the river – if you’re not a fan of my recommendation above and prefer to explore York’s river at your own pace, you can hire a little red boat for yourself! The price goes from £45 per group for 1h on the river and you can book yours here.

9 – The Wizard Walk of York – I mentioned the Wizard Walk of York before in the ‘Harry Potter’ section above, but I’ll mention it again. It’s perfect for kids!

10 – Invisible York – a very different type of walking experience, as this one is hosted by homeless people. Each tour is tailored differently in the centre of York and all money will help support the homeless people of York – such a nice initiative!

Where to stay in York, England

Where to stay in York England - Gray's Court

RELATED READ: Where to Stay in York, UK – Complete Guide

Luckily, York has tons of amazing options for accommodation for all budgets. And because I’ve made the search before going, I want to share my shortlist of great hotels in York with you below:

LUXURY. The Grand. If you’re looking for real luxury right in the centre of York, look no further than this hotel. This is where I stayed and I can surely recommend it for its location and service. They have a nice spa as well, but unfortunately I didn’t get to have any treatments as they were already completely booked up by the time I arrived. So book ahead of your stay if you want to indulge in that!

BOUTIQUE HOTEL. Gray’s Court – Amazing 4-star hotel with a super boutique feel. I stayed here too and I really liked it! They also have a Michelin-star restaurant worth checking out.

BOUTIQUE GUEST HOUSE. Judges Court – super cool design concept and excellent central location. This guest house is inside a Georgian grade II listed building.

MID-RANGE. The Bar Convent – simple and clean, only 15 minutes away by foot from the city centre.

APARTMENT. The Butler Suite – a very nice whole apartment with a nice balcony as well. It’s also a good family option!

BUDGET / HOSTEL. Safestay York. Good accommodation for a super accessible price. They have lots of social spaces for solo travellers, which I think is a nice plus!

Where to eat in York, UK

Betty’s Tea Room in York
Where to eat in York England

During my long walks on the streets of York, I discovered some excellent places to eat and drink. Below are the ones that I really liked:

BREAKFAST:

LUNCH:

DINNER:

DRINKS:

MY PERSONAL RECOMMENDATION: You simply can’t miss Betty’s Tea Room during your trip, it is iconic! As for food, my favourite was Star Inn the City, especially for dinner or an amazing Sunday lunch.

What to eat in York

One of the best things to do in York is, of course… eat! Although York doesn’t have traditional dishes itself, the region of Yorkshire has the following, which I definitely recommend you try:

YORKSHIRE PUDDING

A yummy, baked pudding made from a heavenly batter with eggs, flour and milk. The composition is very similar to a pancake, but the Yorkshire pudding is served as a savoury side, and usually with lots of gravy!

Yorkshire pudding

WENSLEYDALE CHEESE

Also called “Yorkshire Wensleydale”, this type of cheese originated in, you guessed it, Wensleydale, it’s crumbly and made from cow’s milk. There’s also a version of this cheese with cranberries in the mixture – yum!

You can buy it here.

Yorkshire Wensleydale cheese

YORKSHIRE CURD TART

This is basically a variation of a cheesecake, made with fresh curd and filled with currants and egg.

Yorkshire Curd Tart

YORKSHIRE TEA

Of course this part of Britain had to have its own type of tea, right? And personally, I think it’s the very best! Yorkshire Tea is a blend a black tea that has been produced since 1977.

Yorkshire Tea

Day trips from York

Day trips around Yorkshire, England

If you’re looking for fun things to do around York, I might have quite some interesting options for you below:

How to get to York

york city uk how to get there

Good news! York is one of the easiest accessible cities in the country, with plenty of transportation options to choose from. If you’re planning to explore this city soon, here are your options of getting there:

BY PLANE

Although York doesn’t have its own airport, it’s in close distance to 4 other options: Leeds Airport, Manchester, Humberside and Sheffield. The closest option would be from Leeds Bradford International Airport – just take a bus to Leeds Train Station and take a train to York from there. Btw, if you want to hang around in Leeds for a bit, I recommend reading my complete guide to this city too!

BY TRAIN

Lots of trains available, including direct lines from Birmingham, Liverpool, Manchester, Newcastle and Edinburgh. Just so you can get an idea, if you take the train, York is only 1h 50m from London, 1h 30m from Manchester, 1h from Sheffield, 2h from Nottingham, 2h from Liverpool and 2h 30m from Edinburgh.

BY CAR

York is also easily accessible by car – a bit less than 4h from London, 1h 30 from Manchester, 4h from Glasgow, 2h from Newcastle, 2h from Liverpool. Up for a road trip?

BY FERRY

If you’re travelling to York by ferry from other parts of Europe, Hull Port is super close to York, only 1 hour away by car.

BY BUS AND COACH

In case you don’t have a driver’s licence or if you dislike travelling by train or plane, you can also get to York by bus or coach. There are many destinations across England connected to York and different bus operators such as First Bus or MegaBus.

This was my complete York travel guide! After my 4-day stay in the city, I decided I liked it so much, I just had to share everything I found out with you!

This is how I came up with this complete York tourist guide that includes the best things to do in York (both free and not), the best tours, places to stay and places to eat, plus lots of useful info. And my advice to buy the York Pass, of course!

This city in northern England is definitely worth a weekend getaway and, if you decide to visit York after reading this post, that would make me more than happy! From York Castle Museum to the famous York Minster, Yorkshire Museum, English Heritage sites, the biggest National Railway Museum, a gorgeous art gallery, the impressive Jorvik Viking Centre and lots more, there are so many things to do in York, I’m sure you’ll have a great time there!

In case you need more information and help with planning your trip around England, I recommend clicking here to find all my posts about my home country – lots of charming places to explore here!

xoxo,

Melissa

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A Complete Guide to York England
9 Incredible things to do in York

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7 Best Leeds Attractions + Restaurants, Hotels and More (England)

Leeds is the largest city in West Yorkshire, in the north of England that offers plenty of things to do for singles, couples and families alike. In case you’re looking for some of the most exciting Leeds attractions, you’re in the right place. Scroll down and you’ll find all my travel notes that I gathered throughout my 3 week-long visit to the city!

Leeds is a gorgeous destination where you’ll find stunningly preserved Victorian houses as well as modern structures, parks and nature, amazing gastronomy and cool cocktail bars. It’s a mix of many things, and the numerous tourists and students that go to Leeds each year consider it to be one of the true hidden gems of England.

Below you’ll find my complete Leeds travel guide that includes the 7 unmissable Leeds tourist attractions, as well as some free things to do, plus useful info about accommodation, my top restaurants and everything in-between. In short, enough suggestions to to set you up nicely for a weekend getaway!

Let’s begin!

Quick info about Leeds, West Yorkshire

Briggate Leeds UK
Briggate street in Leeds UK

Leeds is the largest city in West Yorkshire and the economic capital of the entire region of Yorkshire. In fact, it is one of the biggest cities in the UK and it has a vast and interesting history. For example, fizzy drinks were invented in Leeds, did you know that? That was in 1767! Plus, the first Marks & Spencer store was opened here and JRR Tolkien was a teacher at the University of Leeds.

Many big things happened in Leeds. Nowadays, there are still loads of things to see in Leeds and I can’t wait to share all of them with you!

RELATED READ: 9 Things to Do in York, England – Complete Guide to the City

Where is Leeds located?

As I mentioned before, Leeds is located in northern England, close to Sheffield, Bradford and York. In order to make things clearer for you, here’s a map of Leeds to see its exact location:

leeds map location in england

7 Unmissable things to do in Leeds

There is an abundance of activities to do in Leeds. So many, that I had to divide my list into three categories: top things to do in Leeds (for people who are visiting for the first time), free tourist attractions (for those on a budget) and a bonus list with more options for those that have seen the main attractions before and are now looking for some off-the-beaten path places to see in Leeds.

Let’s start with the first list:

1 – Leeds city tour

Town Hall in Leeds UK
Leeds town hall, United Kingdom

In my opinion, the best way to discover the true flavour of a city is by walking. This is especially true in Leeds, as the city is ram packed with fun things to do and see. Every walk is an opportunity to find a new spot to check out!

Here’s my short list of the main sites in the city that you should “tick” during your walking tour: Leeds Town Hall, Leeds Civic Hall, Leeds Central Library, Millennium Square, Kirkgate Market, Leeds Corn Exchange, Leeds City Market, Hunslet Road (to see Leeds’ own flatiron building).

As for tours per se, here are your options:

NOTE: Alternatively, if you want to experience Leeds from a different perspective, I recommend taking a ride in one of the yellow water taxis. The price is only £1/person/journey and it takes you from Leeds Docks to Granary Wharf. More information on their website here. There is also a shorter, free taxi boat from Leeds Docks.

2 – See the ruins at Kirkstall Abbey House

ruins at Kirkstall Abbey House

In case you’re a fan of England’s history and charm, I definitely recommend a visit to Kirkstall Abbey to see its ruins and museum. This is one of the top attractions in Leeds and a must-do for every first time visitor!

Kirkstall Abbey is one of the most complex and well-preserved (almost completely) Cistercian abbeys in the UK. The abbey is almost 900 years old and it is located in a public park on the banks of River Aire. There are numerous routes you can take in order to see everything this place has to offer.

Abbey House Museum is made of sets that accurately resemble the buildings, shops and alleys of the Victorian era. There are also actors that wear traditional Victorian costumes on the set to make everything feel even more real – if you’re up for being immersed in the whole experience, you can even interact with them!

TIP: If the weather is nice, pack yourself a picnic lunch to enjoy on the grass near the abbey, it’s one of the most pleasant days out in Leeds!

PRICE: free. Entrance to the museum is £6/person.

By the way, you can find a lot more fun things to do in Leeds for free in this section down below.

3 – Spot wildlife at Rodley Nature Reserve

Rodley Nature Reserve in Leeds

Rodley Nature Reserve is located in Kirkstall Valley as well and it’s THE place to go if you want to witness wildlife and wetlands in all its splendour! There are lots of things to do here, from spotting various species to feeding animals or even pond-dipping. 

It’s a really nice getaway only 8 km (5 miles) from Leeds city center and I recommend it whenever you want to escape the bustling city life!

PRICE: free.

IMPORTANT NOTE: The reserve is currently closed everyday except Sundays due to works to the canal swing bridge. Usually, the schedule is Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday from 9 AM to 5 PM.

TIP: I recommend visiting the Rodley Nature Reserve right after you’re done with Kirkstall Abbey, as they’re pretty close and this itinerary is the most structured.

4 – Take a walk in Roundhay Park

Roundhay Park in Leeds, England

Speaking of nature and taking some time to recharge our batteries… Here’s another green heaven for you! Although it’s not that easy to find beautiful portions of greenery in England’s cities, Leeds is a wonderful exception with this gorgeous park located only 5 km (3 miles) north of the city centre – in fact, it is one of the largest city parks in England!

Roundhay Park stretches over 700 acres / 2.8 square kilometres and it offers plenty of woodland, lakes and gardens and enough space to walk, run or have a picnic. Or, in case it’s summer and you’re getting tired of walking, you can always hop on the “train” and take a circuit of the entire park every 15 minutes.

FUN FACT: This is the only park in Leeds that hosts a family of meerkats. So cute!

By the way, while you’re here, make sure you visit Tropical World as well, which is right inside the park and it’s one of the most appreciated family-friendly places to visit in Leeds. This zoo hosts various species of butterflies (they have an entire butterfly house!) as well as monkeys, rare birds, bats, crocodiles and more.

PRICE: free. Admission to Tropical World is £5/adult. Children under 5 can enter for free.

5 – Do some Leeds shopping

Leeds Victoria Quarter shopping
Leeds Victoria Quarter shopping UK

Leeds’ central area is a real shopping paradise with lots of options to choose from for every budget! Here are some of the places I went to and that I can recommend:

The Corn Exchange in Leeds

RELATED READ: London Neighborhood Guide – 14 Best Areas for Tourists Chosen by a Local

6 – Sip a drink in one of the best cocktail bars in the country

Visit a cocktail bar in Leeds, England

Did you know that Leeds hosts some of THE best cocktail bars in the entire country? If you take a look at this list of 50 top cocktail bars in the UK, you’ll see that Leeds is home to 4 of them (by comparison, London has 5). So if you weren’t planning on exploring some deliciously ingenious drinks, now you should!

Here are the 4 cocktail bars from the top list above:

There are also rooftop bars to choose from such as Headrow House or The Alchemist (at Trinity Shopping Centre).

7 – Enjoy the nightlife on Call Lane

Call Lane Leeds nightlife clubs

Because Leeds is a lively university city, you can expect the nightlife here to be the same – very, very young. The best spot to experience this is called “Call Lane” and most people compare it to the well-known Canal Street in Manchester – just so you can get an idea.

In short, Call Lane is a long street (pedestrianised during the weekends), scattered with bars and nightclubs.

Here are some of the most popular places to check out on Call Lane:

If you’re looking to chase the night, or want to dance till closing, some clubs to add to your list are: Revolución de Cuba, The Backroom, Fibre.

NOTE: Most clubs in Leeds are open until 3 AM.

NOTE #2: Not a fan of Call Lane? You can also check out Millennium Square or Park Row.

BONUS #1: 7 Free things to do in Leeds

Leeds City Museum in England

I know that some of my activity suggestions in this Leeds city guide are already free, such as the parks or the nature reserve, but guess what? There’s more! Which is why I have created this separate list of places to go in Leeds if you don’t want to spend a penny but still enjoy yourself (btw, most of them are indoor activities in Leeds):

1 – Leeds City Museum

If you’re a museum fan, I definitely recommend Leeds City Museum, especially if you’re travelling with children. This museum has no less than 6 different exhibitions and it’s the place to learn more about Leeds’ history. Plus, they have a dedicated Toddler Town inside the museum where you can leave your little one to do some arts and crafts – how amazing is that for a museum that has free entry?! 

Although it has free entrance, this well-known art gallery hosts one of the most impressive collections of 20th century British art with authors such as James Tissot or Henry Moore. Except for this, the notable building is to be taken into consideration too (like for many other tourist attractions in Leeds, as I’ve said this numerous times before, haha!) with a stunning Victorian staircase that will surely impress you. If you love art, now you know where to go!

If you’re planning on visiting Leeds Art Gallery, make sure you add the Craft Centre to your list as well, as it’s right underneath. If the art gallery is for 20th century arts, this place showcases new generations of artists and designers from all around the country – glass, wood, ceramics and more.

tetley gallery in leeds

Okay, I’m not done with the art galleries! This one’s an independent art gallery that opened in 2011, combined with a cafe – Cafe 164. Here you can admire an eclectic mix of art, ranging from photography to illustration and even printmaking, while also sipping on a cup of good coffee and indulging in a scone.

5 – Royal Armouries Museum

In case you’re a fan of war-related remnants and treasures, the Royal Armouries Museum is the place for you. Here you’ll find bullets, pistols, cannons, as well as Henry VIII’s tournament armour and lots more. And even if you’re not a history buff, this museum is still impressive, with more than 8.500 items on display divided into 6 different galleries, including oriental pieces or objects from the present day for comparison.

6 – The Tetley

If you like art galleries in general, know that The Tetley is… something else. This amazing, free entry place (and I cannot stress this enough!) hosts a masterfully curated selection of contemporary artists from all around the globe. Films, installations, sculptures, free talks and events – you can find everything here and then some. And if you’re travelling with kids, they also have child-friendly events.

7 – Meanwood Valley Trail

Last but not least, a walk in the park. Well, not really, as the Meanwood Valley Trail is 11 km (7 miles) long. Luckily, it is divided into 3 different sections in case you want to take a break. Why am I recommending it? Because it’s the perfect activity for people who want to explore Leeds’ woodland and paddocks, from Woodhouse Moor up to the Golden Acre Park. 

BONUS #2: Extra things to do in Leeds if you have more time

Explore Leeds in the United Kingdom

In case it’s not your first visit to Leeds, you might find the list below to be super useful:

Best organised tours of Leeds, West Yorkshire

Leeds Dock in Yorkshire, England
Tours of Leeds England

Short on time? Overwhelmed by all the things you want to squeeze into your itinerary? A good idea for any of these two options would be to book some organised tours through Leeds that will make your life easier. Why? You’ll be accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide that will take you to all the main tourist attractions in Leeds! Here are my recommendations:

Where to stay in Leeds

Where to stay in Leeds Quebecs Hotel

RELATED READ: Where to Stay in Leeds, UK – Complete Guide

Leeds offers lots of accommodation options for all budgets and preferences. Only one thing to know, though: my recommendation is to stay in the city centre to ensure that you’re close to all the main tourist attractions in Leeds, as well as the best places to eat and shop. 

In order to help you out, I have put together this list of recommendations for the best hotels in Leeds:

LUXURY: Dakota Hotel Leeds – gorgeous, popular 5-star hotel in Leeds

LONG STAY: Quebecs – hotel and long stay serviced apartments – this is where we stayed and we quite enjoyed it!

MID-RANGE: Radisson Blu Hotel – comfy and dependable hotel chain

BUDGET: Art Hostel – simple and straight-forward hostel with double rooms as well

AIRBNB: Smart Balconied Apartment in Heart of City Centre – highly-rated Airbnb Plus apartment!

ENTIRE APARTMENT: Aire Apartments New York Styled – fully equipped luxury apartments close to River Aire

Best restaurants in Leeds

Best restaurants in Leeds

Now, this is my subject of expertise! I tried lots of eateries while in Leeds, so now I can present to you my personally curated list of the best Leeds restaurants divided by themes:

BREAKFAST

LUNCH

DINNER

DRINKS

Although all of them are very good, I can personally recommend two of them out of the bunch – Fazenda, which is literally all you can eat meat (boyfriend loved that) and Iberica (my choice), where the food was insanely good and really well presented. I’m getting hungry just by thinking about the place!

What to eat in Leeds

Although Leeds doesn’t have traditional dishes itself, the region of Yorkshire has the following, which I definitely recommend you try:

YORKSHIRE PUDDING

A yummy, baked pudding made from a heavenly batter with eggs, flour and milk. The composition is very similar to a pancake, but the Yorkshire pudding is served as a savoury side, and usually with lots of gravy!

Yorkshire pudding

WENSLEYDALE CHEESE

Also called “Yorkshire Wensleydale”, this type of cheese originated in, you guessed it, Wensleydale, it’s crumbly and made from cow’s milk. There’s also a version of this cheese with cranberries in the mixture – yum!

You can buy it here.

Yorkshire Wensleydale cheese

YORKSHIRE CURD TART

This is basically a variation of a cheesecake, made with fresh curd and filled with currants and egg.

Yorkshire Curd Tart

YORKSHIRE TEA

Of course this part of Britain had to have its own type of tea, right? And personally, I think it’s the very best! Yorkshire Tea is a blend a black tea that has been produced since 1977.

Yorkshire Tea

6 Exciting day trips from Leeds

Day trips around Yorkshire, England

Looking for things to do near Leeds as a quick and exciting day trip? I got you! Here are some of my favourite options below:

How to get to Leeds

Leeds Docks UK
Leeds Street Art UK

Luckily for us travellers, Leeds is one of the easiest accessible cities in the country, as there are lots of trains with fast connections.

BY PLANE

Leeds Bradford Airport  (LBA) is your destination and it’s located only 12.8 km (8 miles) from the centre. 

BY TRAIN

Lots of trains available, including from Heathrow Airport, St. Pancras or Manchester Airport, as well as many other destinations across the country. Just so you can get an idea, if you take the train, Leeds is only 2h 15m away from London, 50 mins from Manchester, 2h from Birmingham, 1h 30m from Newcastle, 20m from York and 4h from Glasgow.

BY CAR

Leeds is also easily accessible by car – 3h 30m from London, 4h from Edinburgh, 1h from Manchester, 2h from Newcastle and so on. Up for a road trip?

BY BUS AND COACH

In case you don’t have a driver’s licence or if you dislike travelling by train or plane, you can also get to Leeds by bus or coach. Leeds Bus and Coach Station is right in the city centre and there are many destinations across England connected to it year round.

This was my complete Leeds guide that includes everything you need to know about the best things to do here (both free and not), where to stay and where to eat for the best experiences, Leeds day trips (in case you get bored in the city… almost impossible!), as well as other technical bits of information about how to get there and more.

I didn’t quite expect to like Leeds as much as I did, but it’s hard not to fall for the vibrant buzz of this city! I’m planning on going back whenever I get the chance. Seriously now, there are so many interesting tourist attractions in Leeds, that it’s virtually impossible to get bored during your trip here. From the laid-back Golden Acre Park to numerous galleries and museums, music venues, lush gardens, and lots more, there will always be something new to discover in this part of West Yorkshire.

And in case you need more help with planning your trip around Great Britain, I recommend clicking here to find all my articles about my home country.

xoxo,

Melissa

Want to know more about travelling to the UK?

Pin me for later!

Guide to Leeds, England
Best Leeds attractions

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