The ultimate travel itinerary for Mexico! Arriving into Cancun airport, visiting Caribbean islands, discovering off the beaten path locations and soaking in that Mexican sun. Read on for everything you need for your trip to Mexico.

Cancun

Most people fly into Cancún, making it the first stop on their Mexico trip. To be very honest, I would grab a rental car (we hired one from *here*) and get out of Cancun. The city’s popularity has led to bustling crowds, cookie-cutter resorts, and growing environmental concerns, prompting those with a penchant for quieter, culturally rich, and eco-conscious destinations to explore alternatives. Mexico’s diverse landscapes offer hidden gems like Isla Holbox, Bacalar, or Valladolid, providing an opportunity for a more personalised and off-the-beaten-path adventure, away from the well-trodden tourist trail.

Isla Mujeres

After landing into Cancun, I recommend heading straight to Isla Mujeres – a tiny gem in the Caribbean with turquoise waters that Instagram can’t even do justice! We rented a car and drove to the ferry port, however there are regular buses and taxis going from the airport to the ferry port.

The Gran Puerto Cancun (Ultramar) ferry dock is located in Puerto Juarez, a few minutes from downtown Cancun or approximately 30 minutes from Cancun airport. The boats leave every half hour from 5:00 am until 9:30 pm and every hour after that. The crossing takes about 20 minutes. You can book your ticket when you arrive at the port, or prebook here.

We do not recommend taking your car to Isla Mujeres, rather renting a golf cart when you get over! This can be a little pricey, ranging from $60-$80 per day (worth it though!)

Click here for everything that you need to do in Isla Mujeres.

Important tip: BRING CASH. There is a limited number of ATMs on the island and even then, they are very unpredictable.

Isla Holbox

If you decided not the rent a car before visiting Isla Mujeres, now is time to get that rental! We are heading on a 2 hour drive from Cancun to Chiquila, the last mainland stop before Isla Holbox. And when I tell you that this drive is worth it, I definitely mean it! There is also a 40 minute, $470+ flight from Cancun to Holbox if your budget can afford it.

Imagine an island where time moves at its own lazy pace, where the sun kisses your skin and the breeze whispers secrets of a hidden paradise. Welcome to Isla Holbox, a gem tucked away in the Caribbean Sea, waiting to cast its spell on your soul. This is not just a destination; it’s a promise of untouched tranquility and a haven for seekers of unspoiled, laid-back bliss.

Arriving to Chiquila, you must leave your car at the port as Isla Holbox is car-free. Like Isla Mujeres, golf carts are the best of mode of transport here. Ferries run every 30 minutes and the journey takes 15 minutes. Tickets for the Holbox ferry cost $220 MXN per person for adults and $160 MXN for children.

Tip! If there has been heavy rains, I would reconsider visiting as the streets flood pretty bad here. You will be carrying you luggage and walking through knee-high water.

Another important tip: BRING CASH. There is a limited number of ATMs on the island and even then, they are very unpredictable.

Read here for the best spots in Isla Holbox.

Valladolid

Dive into the heart of the Yucatán Peninsula, and you’ll stumble upon Valladolid – a town that feels like a timeless embrace. Cobbled streets, vibrant hues, and an air that says, “take it slow.” Valladolid is more than a destination; it’s a stroll through the pages of history and a glimpse into the soul of Mexico.

Valladolid is only a 2 hour drive from Chiquila (Isla Holbox port) or just over a 2 hour drive from Cancun. Begin your adventure by wandering through Valladolid’s enchanting streets. Cobblestone paths lead you past pastel-hued facades, charming squares, and bustling markets. Each corner tells a tale, and the vibrant colors reflect the town’s lively spirit.

While staying in Valladolid, discover sacred cenotes (these are the best cenotes we visited on our Mexico trip) and explore the ancient pyramids of Chichen Itzá, immersing yourself in the mysteries of the Mayan civilization.

Click here for the ultimate to-do list for visiting Valladolid.

Las Coloradas

As you approach Las Coloradas, prepare to be greeted by an otherworldly sight – vibrant pink lagoons stretching as far as the eye can see.

Los Coloradas is definitely off the beaten-path. The road isn’t great, but is the 2 hour journey worth it? I think so! The pink lagoons look exactly like the pictures, which to be honest, is unusual in todays instagram world. This captivating phenomenon is a result of high salinity, microorganisms, and the presence of the red-hued microalgae, creating a surreal landscape that defies reality.

As the sun begins its descent, Las Coloradas transforms into a canvas of warm hues. Keep your camera ready, as Las Coloradas is a haven for the majestic flamingos.

Click here to read a detailed blog on Las Coloradas.

Tulum

Nestled on the Riviera Maya along the Mexican Caribbean coast, Tulum is the perfect blend of bohemian vibes, ancient allure, and turquoise dreams.

If you are coming from Valladolid, then Tulum is only a 90minute drive. If you have decided to come to Tulum directly from Cancun, then you have 4a couple of options.

1. Rent a car from Cancun airport and drive to Tulum. Car rentals cost aprroxiamtely $20usd per day, although if you are taking the car for a couple of weeks, you can negotiate this down to about $10-$15usd (depending on how good your negotiating skills are).
2. ADO bus. This takes about 2 hours. Costs approx $13.50usd. You can buy your tickets at the airport (or go outside the kiosk beside the buses where the queues are normally much shorter). At the time of writing, you cannot prebook tickets online. The Tulum bus station is located on the edge of Tulum town so be prepared to take a taxi if your accommodation is located near the beach.
3. Book a private transfer via your accommodation or bookaway is a good option. Expect to pay around $100usd for this.

In Tulum, the list of things to do is as boundless as the horizon that meets the turquoise sea. Whether you’re drawn to the soft embrace of its pristine beaches, the echoes of ancient civilisations in the Tulum Ruins, or the hidden wonders concealed within cenotes and caves, this coastal paradise has a penchant for turning every moment into an adventure.

Explore the ultimate Tulum travel guide by tapping/clicking here.

Bacalar

If you followed our itinerary, Bacalar will be your final stop before heading back to Cancun. Known as the Lagoon of Seven Colours, Bacalar promises a tranquil escape where time slows down, and each shade of blue paints a story of relaxation and wonder.

With a drive of 2 hours 40 minute drive from Tulum, we recommend staying at least one night in this hidden paradise (although we did a day-trip which is definitely feasible if you’re prepared for the driving). Bacalar is one of our must-see spots when visiting Mexico and over the past years has become increasingly popular for adventure sports such as zip lines, white water rafting and boat trips.

Apart from renting a car, the options for visiting Bacalar are the ADO bus, costing $25 per person one-way from Tulum, or booking a tour.

Read here for everything Bacalar.