If you want to spend some time in the Yucatan peninsula of Mexico, but want to get away from all the all-inclusive resorts in Cancun, Tulum is the place for you! 3 days in Tulum is a good length of time to relax and explore, without feeling overwhelmed or getting bored. Interested? Keep reading for all the things to see, the best places to eat and more.
BEFORE YOU GO
Tulum is becoming increasingly popular as a tourist destination, and the prices reflect that. Be prepared for prices comparable to that in major US cities.
A lot of places in Tulum, especially on the beach, only accept cash. The few places that accepted cards usually added a surcharge. Find an ATM and stock up!
The town is divided into the “Playa” (beach) and “Puebla”(town). As you can probably expect, things are more expensive on the beach.
GETTING AROUND
While a car is useful in getting around the region, finding a parking space can be a hassle especially on the beach road. Taxis are easily available, and we had no issues at all using them. Bikes are also a popular way of getting around, especially on the beach road.
First time to Mexico? Check out my post on things you know before you visit.
WHERE TO STAY
We stayed in Ginger Tulum, and we highly recommend it. The staff were helpful and friendly and the food was fresh and tasty. However, the wifi was a little temperamental, so be aware.
We also spent a night at the Pacha Tulum Boutique Hotel, which was a little smaller than Ginger, but it was also great. I especially loved the crepes at breakfast. There are also plenty of hotels along the beach such as the Papaya Playa Project and Azul Tulum if you want to splurge out.
Also read: What to pack for a week in the Yucatan
WHAT TO DO
Day 1: Cenotes and Coba
Fuel up at breakfast breakfast bright and early, since you will want to be at the cenote as it opens. This is important if you want to visit some of the more popular cenotes like Gran Cenote. For places off the beaten track you get get away with going a bit later in the day.
Check out my post on a guide to visiting cenotes here.
Visit the ruins at Coba. Unlike the ruins at Chichen Itza, you are allowed to climb the ruins here, so be prepared to get quite the workout climbing those stairs!
Dinner: While we didn’t end up going here, I really wanted to eat at Charly’s Vegan Tacos. They have great reviews, and the menu looks absolutely amazing. Clearly I need to go back to Tulum to eat here.
Day 2: Beach day
Usually I am not someone who wants to lie on a beach all day. But Tulum is full of cute beach clubs and this is a perfect way to recharge your batteries. Bring a good book, find yourself a lounge chair and chill with a drink and snacks. If you’re feeling a bit knotted up, there are plenty of massage huts along the beach too. Be aware that most beach clubs have a minimum amount you must spend in order to be able to use facilities such as the loungers or towels.
Dinner: Enjoy an Italian dinner by the sea at Posada Margherita.
Day 3: Tulum Archaeological Zone
Once again, make sure to get an early start and head to the ruins in Tulum. This is a fairly small complex, so it can start to feel crowded when the tour groups arrive. You won’t need more than about 2 hours here, but it’s absolutely worth your time.
Once you are done at the ruins, enjoy a lunch in one of the many cafes and restaurants in town. Then, walk around and explore the shops. If you find anything you want to buy, don’t be afraid to negotiate the price down!
Dinner: Head to El Asadero, where the food is great but the chips and dip they serve you are the star of the show. Well mainly the dips: the chips serve as a convenient transport mechanism for the 5 amazing dipping sauces.
And there you have it, a guide to exploring Tulum in 3 days, while still leaving plenty of room to relax and soak in the Sun!
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