In the heart of the Riviera Maya, Playa del Carmen stands out for its white-sand beaches and turquoise waters. Located just 50 minutes from Cancun International Airport, it is easy to reach for those looking to combine relaxation, culture, and nature.
With its warm, semi-tropical climate year-round, Playa del Carmen invites visitors to enjoy its beaches, diving clubs, and boat tours, as well as the iconic Fifth Avenue, where restaurants, boutiques, and art galleries abound at any time of day.
The city is also an ideal starting point for exploring the Mayan heritage. Nearby you will find archaeological sites such as Tulum and Cobá, along with internationally renowned eco-parks where nature and history merge into unforgettable experiences.
Thanks to its world-class tourist infrastructure, which includes spas, resorts, and a growing range of high-quality health services, Playa del Carmen has become a destination that blends wellness, culture, and the option to receive medical care during your stay.
You can pay with US dollars, Credit/Debit cards on most restaurants and establishments. If you pay with USD the exchange rate will be lower, our recommendation is to visit a foreign exchange agency, a bank or an ATM to turn your currency into Mexican pesos, you’ll get a better exchange rate this way.
Information about Embassies, Consulates or Consular Agencies for U.S. and Canadian citizens.
In case of an emergency or if you need general assistance while traveling in Mexico, please contact the nearest embassy, consulate, or consular agency.
It is recommended to have the phone number of your country’s embassy or nearest consulate on hand before traveling, so they can assist you directly if needed.
Safety tips
Cancun and Playa del Carmen are very safe destinations to walk and explore, we recommend to employ common-sense precautions, just as you would in any other city. Talk to your hotel or any tourist office for information about the high ties or the signaling at the beaches.
Arriving by air
The Cancun International Airport (CUN) receives national and international flights. The airport offers a wide selection of transportation services like, buses, shuttles, taxis, private and shared transportation that will take you all along the Riviera Maya. Depending on the transportation prices may range between $12 to $34 USD to most locations.
Common flights to Cancun (Approx.)
Dallas - 2:45 hrs.
Atlanta - 2:35 hrs.
Calgary - 5:25 hrs.
Chicago - 3:40 hrs.
Toronto - 4:35 hrs.
Houston - 2:15 hrs.
New York - 4:10 hrs.
Vancouver - 5:50 hrs.
Los Angeles - 4:40 hrs.
Minneapolis - 4:20 hrs.
How to move around the city
Cancun's popularity tends to have higher traffic. We recommend requesting a taxi, but you can also use public transportation or buses that go to nearby towns.
Where to stay?
Find the perfect hotel or motel that fits your budget with prices ranging between $30 - $80 USD per night.
Events
Carnival Playa del Carmen
Cultural festival
Date: Between February and March
Venue: Playa del Carmen
Whale Shark Festival
Festival
Date: July
Venue: Isla Mujeres
Chichén Itzá equinox
Cultural festival
Date: March and September
Venue: Chichén Itzá
Riviera Maya Jazz Festival
Music festival
Date: November
Venue: Mamitas Beach Club
For more information about the events, please check their official website or social media.