The Ultimate 10 Day Yucatan Peninsula Itinerary by a Mexico Expat (2025)

Planning the perfect, 10-day Yucatan Peninsula itinerary may seem overwhelming but fortunately y’all have me! I’ve lived in the Yucatan Peninsula for over 3 years now, which means I’ve pretty much explored every nook and cranny of this magical, mystical Mexico region. Couple life as a local with being a former tour guide — basically an expert at showing off the best of a destination — and I’ve got your epic voyage through the Yucatan Peninsula covered!

I designed this journey into the tropical heart of the Yucatan Peninsula for first-time visitors to the region. This means my itinerary spotlights several of southern Mexico’s highlights, but also veers off-the-beaten-path a bit. From the pristine Caribbean to majestic Mayan ruins, and from storied colonial towns to picturesque cenotes, this 10-day Yucatan Peninsula itinerary illuminates one of North America’s dreamiest destinations. 

This southern Mexico itinerary also works great for family travelers and adult voyagers alike. You’ll find excellent recs for both adults-only and family-friendly accommodations, as well as activities, and dining options, to suit a range of travelers. Everybody wins!

To be clear, this is a 10-day Yucatan Peninsula road trip itinerary. As for logistics – where to rent a car, what to pack, how to get where, etc. – I cover all that, plus share a handy road trip map, in Logistics and FAQ sections at the end of this post.  

Ready? Time to gas up and hit the road!

10-Day Yucatan Peninsula Itinerary:
An Epic Southern Mexico Road Trip

Day 1 | Cancun

Welcome to Cancun, the sun-soaked beach town that put Mexico’s Caribbean coastline on the map. Cancun’s stunning beaches, spectacular underwater world, and all-inclusive, mega-resorts lure millions of visitors every year. While you’re guaranteed to fall in love with Cancun’s extraordinary natural beauty, be mindful that over-tourism and a raucous nightlife make it somewhat of a tourist trap.

ARRIVE

The earlier in the morning you can arrive at Cancun International Airport, the better. Early arrival buffers against any extra time it will take to get through customs and baggage claim, and to pick up your rental car. You’ve only got 1 day in Cancun, so let’s make the most of it! 

Scoop up your bags, grab your rental and zip over to your hotel. Vacay mode is officially on! 

STAY

Normally, I’m not a fan of massive resorts. But with a single day in Cancun, it’s a frontrunner for giving first-time travelers to the region the “quintessential” Cancun experience.

Here are some excellent, beach-front options within the Hotel Zone (Zona Hotelera):

💎 BEST LUXURY HOTELS IN CANCUN
🥂 Adults-only | Beloved Playa Mujeres | Le Blanc Spa Resort 
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family-friendly: Finest Playa Mujeres | Iberostar Selection Cancun

💳 BEST MID-RANGE HOTELS IN CANCUN
🥂 Adults-only | Royalton Chic Cancun | Secrets the Vine
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family-friendly | Riu Palace Peninsula | Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach Cancun

💰 BEST BUDGET HOTELS IN CANCUN
🥂 Adults-only | Ocean Maya Royale | Barcelo Maya Riviera
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family-friendly | Beachscape Kin-Ha Villas and Suites | Selina Cancun Laguna

Your room probably won’t be ready when you arrive at your hotel since you’ll be there before 3 p.m. So leave your luggage in the hold at reception, because the glorious Caribbean is calling!

PRO TIP: Travel with your swimsuit and SPF in your carry-on, or have them easily accessible in your suitcase. If your room isn’t ready when you check in, you’re set to seamlessly hit the beach. Worried about a towel? Most hotels & resorts provide them.      

EXPLORE

The first day of your southern Mexico itinerary kicks off with some serious R & R. If you’re staying at an all-inclusive, my top recommendation is to hang at your resort and soak up the amenities. Take advantage of the spa, the pool and all the food and beverage options. Or better yet, grab a lounger on the sand and marvel at the impossibly turquoise sea until your heart’s content.

If you’re itching to play or explore, Cancun’s certainly not short on things to do. You can rent water toys like kayaks, catamarans, stand-up paddle-boards, and jet skis everywhere along the city’s beaches.

Travelers looking for an unbeatably cool experience can snorkel, dive or rent a glass-bottom boat to visit the Museum of Underwater Art, an incredible underwater installation of over 500 life-sized sculptures. This will also bring you face-to-face with the magnificent array of marine-life that thrive along the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef. Don’t forget your Go-Pro! 

If you’ve got little ones, visit the Cancun Interactive Aquarium. You can see sea creatures that range the gamut from sharks to amphibians. Kiddos will also have the opportunity to swim with dolphins.

For dining, I recommend your hotel if it’s an all-inclusive. Today is about relaxing before you’re traveling for the next several days. so there’s no reason to venture out if you don’t have to. But if you do prefer a restaurant in Cancun, I love Carajillo and Porfirio’s for both lunch and dinner. Both restaurants offer a great experience. Everyone from couples and groups, to plant-based diners and kids will find plenty of options, plus views on the water!

Day 2 | Valladolid

🚘 The drive from Cancun to Valladolid is 1 hour and 45 minutes 🚘

Valladolid is a laid-back jewel of a city located mid-way between Cancun and Merida. It’s steeped in Maya and colonial history, and it’s also where the novelist Daniel Cervantes wrote parts of his famous novel, Don Quixote. Surrounded by a wealth of cenotes, and the formidable Mayan archaeological sites of Chichen Itza and Ek Balaam, Valladolid the one pueblo magico in the region that you can’t miss! 

ARRIVE

Day 2 of your 10-day Yucatan Peninsula Itinerary gets you on the road to Valladolid. From Cancun, Valladolid is a straight shot on the toll highway 180D. The road is very safe and in great condition.

Traffic is usually pretty light, so expect smooth sailing. The only times you might slow down are where sections of the Tren Maya may still be under construction, and at police checkpoints. Police checkpoints are common in the region and nothing to worry about. Just prepare to slow down and let the officer have a good look at you and your passengers. They’re primarily on the lookout for shady looking characters and drunk drivers.  

Have cash ready to pay the toll at the caseta de cobro, or toll booth. The toll from Quintana Roo into Yucatan is a bit hefty – about $385 pesos, or $20. Pay in pesos, not dollars. The exchange rate isn’t pretty.

STAY

When you arrive in Valladolid, check into your hotel. Leave your luggage at the front desk so you can get out and explore. Here are some top Valladolid hotel options:

💎 BEST LUXURY HOTELS IN VALLADOLID
🥂 Adults-only | Oriundo Luxury Villas | Meson de Malleville Coqui Coqui Valladolid
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family-friendly | Mesón del Marqués | Hotel Colón Plaza

💳 BEST MID-RANGE HOTELS IN VALLADOLID
🥂 Adults-only | Hotel Olibi | Hotel Le Muuch 
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family-friendly | Hotel Posada San Juan | Hotel Boutique Gareus

💰 BEST BUDGET HOTELS IN VALLADOLID
🥂 Adults-only | Hotel Zent’ik Project | Hotel Refugio 41
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family-friendly | Hotel Saastah | Casa Tia Micha

EXPLORE

Day 2 of your 10-day Yucatan Peninsula itinerary is all about roaming Valladolid’s pretty plazas and radiant streets.

If you’re out and about early enough, start your day with a visit to the quirky Casa de los Venados, a private home repurposed into an art gallery. The building is brimming with over 3,000 pieces of technicolored, Mexican folk art. The owners open their doors daily for a free tour at 10 am. Donations that go to support local charities are welcome.

Alternatively, start your day at Parque de Sisal, where you’ll discover the Convento de San Bernardino de Siena, as well as the multi-colored Valladolid letters. Take note of this location because you’re returning here later tonight.

From here, embark on a leisurely stroll along the picturesque Calzada de los Frailes. This is one of the prettiest, and most emblamatic streets in all of Yucatan. It’s lined with popsicle-colored buildings that house coffee shops, restaurants, boutique hotels, and several artisanal shops. Pop into Coqui Coqui to get a whiff of this exclusive perfumery, and be sure to visit Kuxtal Galeria de Arte Popular Mexicano & Cafe. It’s an ideal spot to enjoy some of the city’s best coffee, as well shop for authentic Mexican crafts.

Continue to Parque Principal, the heart of downtown Valladolid. This graceful, outdoor space rests in the towering shadow of the 16th-century, Franciscan church, Iglesia de San Servacio. The perimeter of the square is also home to Choco Story, a fascinating chocolate museum with lots of exhibitions, and of course chocolate — yum! — that kids will love. Be sure to browse the Mercado de Zaci, a suite of artisanal shops selling embroidered clothing, shoes, leather goods, and other handmade crafts. 

Next it’s time to cool off at Cenote Zaci. This refreshing and picturesque swimming hole is super close to the center of Valladolid. So you can either opt to walk there, or hop in an Uber or taxi.

In the evening, go for a delicious and authentic Mayan dinner at IX CAT IK Tradicional Cocina Maya, a celebrated restaurant with gastronomy that will please everyone from meat-eaters to vegans. Don’t expect any tacos or moles on the menu. Tonight you’ll be discovering the unique, sweet and citrusy flavors of the region’s mestizo cuisine, a combination of Spanish, Mayan and Mexican influences. Expect regional specialties like sopa de lima, empinadas de chaya, póok chúuk, and papad’zules.

After dinner, return to Parque de Sisal to watch the free video mapping show about the history of Valladolid. It’s a fascinating story projected in vivid colors against the facade of Convento de San Bernardino. The Spanish version starts at 9 pm, followed by the English version at 9:25 pm. 

The area is usually bustling with locals at night, so join them in having some local “street food” for dessert. You’ll find carts selling paletas, or popsicles, churros, a type of fried donut dipped in cinnamon and sugar, and marquesitas, a kind of crispy, rolled crepe that’s filled with sweet and savory goodies, most often Nutella and Edam cheese.  

Enjoy your evening, but make sure to get some decent shut-eye. It’s gonna be an early one tomorrow!

Day 3: Morning | Chichen Itza

🚘 The drive from Valladolid to Chichen Itza is 50 minutes 🚘

The ancient city of Chichen Itza is a Unesco World Heritage Site, and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. An imposing archaeological complex comprised of multiple ancient structures, Chichen Itza was the home to tens of thousands of ancient Maya. The site’s show-stopper is El Castillo, a 98-foot tall pyramid built sometime between the 9th and 12 centuries A.D. in honor of the ancient “feather god,” Kukulcan. 

ARRIVE

Chichen Itza opens at 8 am, which is when you should aim to be there. This is for two reasons. First, the earlier you arrive, you lessen your risk of being swallowed up by the hordes and hordes (and hordes) of tourists descending on the site in tour buses. And second, you’ll beat the scalding, midday heat.

About 10-minutes before you arrive at Chichen Itza’s main parking lot, which is located directly in front of the site, locals will start trying to wave you down to offer you (paid) parking. Ignore them and keep driving until you see the official Chichen Itza entrance. You’re about to get royal parking for being one of the first to arrive. Score! 

EXPLORE

Chichen Itza is a massive archaeological site with several awesome areas of interest. That said, beeline it for El Castillo as soon as you get in. Within an hour, this striking temple will be mobbed with people. Now’s your chance to take photo-bomb-free selfies from every angle. 

You’ll also want to visit The Great Ball Court. Bigger than an American football field, the court is where the Maya played an ancient ball game called pok-ta-pok, which ended with the losing team becoming human sacrifices (yikes!). Don’t miss the ancient observatory of El Caracol, The Wall of Skulls and The Temple of the Warriors and Thousand Columns. If morbid curiosity is your thing, have a peek at the Sacred Cenote, which is where the Maya discarded the bodies of human sacrifices after death (double yikes!).  

Plan to spend roughly 3 hours at Chichen Itza. It’ll be fairly sweltering by the time you’re ready to leave, so a post-ruins dip in a sparkling cenote is perfect. Here are three to choose from. Each cenote has showers, two sell snacks, and one has an on-site restaurant. Most importantly, none are of the “sacred” variety!

Cenote Ik-Kil | Cenote Ik-Kil is just 5-minutes away from Chichen Itza. It’s an open, sink-hole type cenote (as opposed to being cave-like and underground), topped by a cascade of picturesque vines. It’s flanked by a few jumping platforms, and the view from the top down is something spectacular. It’s a lovely cenote, but it can get crowded since it’s the closest one to Chichen Itza. But, since you’re the early bird who caught the worm, it shouldn’t be too crowded when you arrive.

Cenote Suytun | Cenote Suytun is something of an Instagram star. It boasts the famous sunbeam that illuminates visitors over a platform on the water. The photo-op is one-of-a-kind, but be warned you might wait in line forever take it. I certainly did! 

Thanks to its popularity, Cenote Suytun gets crazy crowded. As a result, there’s also a 1-hour visiting limit. If you choose Suytun, be sure to time catching the sunbeam right. It’s best about midday, when it’s clear and sunny out. 

Cenote Suytun is 45-minutes from Chichen Itza, back in the direction of Valladolid.

Cenote Lorenzo Oxman | Cenote Ik-Kil and Cenote Suytun both offer some special charms, but my top vote is for Cenote Lorenzo Oxman. Set on the grounds of a hacienda in Valladolid, a visit here kills 3 birds with one stone: Cenote, check. Hacienda, check. Delicious, poolside lunch at their on-site restaurant, check. Cenote Oxman is also close to the main road you’ll need to drive to El Cuyo, the next destination on your Yucatan Peninsula road trip.

Whichever cenote you decide on, you’re back on the road after lunch.

Day 3: Afternoon | El Cuyo

🚘 The drive from VALLADOLID to EL CUYO is 2 hours, 20 minutes 🚘

Nestled along a tiny sandbar on Yucatan’s Gulf Coast, the pearl-sized fishing village of El Cuyo is a welcome reprieve from the region’s crowded, Caribbean beaches. Located inside the Rio Lagartos Biosphere, El Cuyo is as off-the-beaten-path and “hidden gem” as the Yucatan Peninsula gets. The most you’ll have to do in this lazy paradise is spot flamingoes, and splash in the turquoise waves. 

ARRIVE

Make sure to leave Valladolid for El Cuyo with plenty of daylight ahead — you DO NOT want to be driving at night. The road to El Cuyo isn’t dangerous, it just isn’t very well lit. Plan to be on the road between 2 pm – 3 pm, at the latest. You’ll be rewarded by El Cuyo’s enchanting sunset. 

El Cuyo is a marvelous little spot, but it’s still very rustic. If you need cash, or gas for your car, fill up in Valladolid. If for some reason you don’t, Tizimin is the last major city on the way to El Cuyo where you can stop. There’s only one gas station, and one ATM in El Cuyo, and it’s not uncommon for either to be down and out.

For everything you need to know about this Yucatan hidden gem, check out my Unrivaled Guide to El Cuyo.

STAY

El Cuyo has no resorts or big, fancy hotels. Due to the town’s location inside the protected Rio Lagartos Biosphere, construction laws here are strict, which keeps accommodations in the city limited. Fortunately, El Cuyo has a respectable variety of stylish, boutique hotels, including my fave, Cucu Hotel & Kite. 

Here are my top El Cuyo boutique hotel picks:

⭐️ BEST BOUTIQUE HOTELS EL CUYO
🥂 Adults-only | LunArena Boutique Hotel | Hotel Can Cocal
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family-friendly | Cucu Hotel & Kite | Casa Mate

Check into your hotel when you arrive in El Cuyo. Since you’re arriving later in the afternoon, your room should be ready. 

EXPLORE

It’s been a long day, so it’s going to be an easy, early night. After check-in, take a relaxing stroll on the beach and enjoy El Cuyo’s impeccable sunset. Then head into town for dinner. You can’t go wrong with El Zapote, or the restaurant at Hotel Can Cocal. If you’re in the mood for a superb, multiple-course, tasting menu, El Chili Gordo is not to be missed.  

Day 4 | El Cuyo & Rio Lagartos

The El Cuyo stretch of your 10-day Yucatan Peninsula itinerary brings a mix of ecotourism and R&R. 

EXPLORE

Start your morning with a tasty breakfast at Naia Cafe. Then take a boat tour of the Rio Lagartos Biosphere. This tropical sanctuary is home to incredible creatures like flamingos, jaguars and hawksbill turtles, as well as several species of birds and marine life. You’ll discover much about the region’s flora and fauna, and learn about El Cuyo’s commitment to sustainable travel.

When you’re back on land, rent bicycles or an ATV to explore El Cuyo. It’s a tiny town, so you can even do this on foot. You’ll zip by loads of vibrant street murals and colorful homes with unique, hand-painted designs  Visit the pier and get your requisite Instagram shot with the El Cuyo sign. And keep an eye out for El Faro, the quirky lighthouse in the center of town that’s built over the remains of a Mayan temple.

Grab a spicy Mexican lunch at Casa Manglar before whiling away the rest of your afternoon on El Cuyo’s stunning, unspoiled beach. El Cuyo is renowned for its kitesurfing and stand up paddle-boarding culture. If you’re feeling sporty, indulge! Renting kayaks is another wonderful way to enjoy the water.

Once you’ve watched the sun sink into the Gulf of Mexico one last time, it’s off to dinner at whichever restaurant you didn’t eat at last night. 

Day 5 | Merida

🚘 The drive from El Cuyo to Merida is 3.5 hours 🚘

Welcome to Merida, the vibrant state and cultural capital of Yucatan. Once a wealthy colonial city thanks to the prodigious production of henequen, Merida today is a beautiful and bustling place that’s brimming with people, culture and amazing gastronomy reflective of its Mayan roots. From people-watching in picturesque plazas to exploring elegant haciendas, you’ll fall in love with this radiant, southern Mexico city that I call home.    

ARRIVE

Day 5 of your 10-day Yucatan Peninsula itinerary kicks off with a morning road trip to Merida. Try to leave El Cuyo between 9 – 9:30 a.m. so you can be in Merida by lunchtime. 

Instead of checking directly into your hotel, you’re headed for a Yucatecan feast at Hacienda Teya. This 17th-century estate is renowned for its lovely grounds where deer and peacocks and peacocks roam, but even more so for its exceptional, regional cuisine. If you’re traveling with little ones, they’ll love getting their road trip wiggles out on the hacienda’s playground and soccer field. 

Hacienda Teya is just 15 minutes outside of downtown Merida, so it’s only a short trip to your hotel after lunch.

STAY

Merida has a wealth of excellent hotels to suit all tastes and budgets. Here are some top choices: 

💎 BEST LUXURY HOTELS IN MERIDA
🥂 Adults-only | Cigno Hotel | Decu Merida
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family-friendly | Hacienda Xcanatun | Villa Mercedes Merida

⭐️ BEST BOUTIQUE HOTELS IN MERIDA
Adults-only | Casa Azul | The Diplomat
Family-friendly | Hotel Casa Lucia | Rosas y Xocolate

💰 BEST BUDGET HOTELS IN MERIDA
Adults-only | Art 57 Hotel | Casa de Las Palomas
Family-friendly | Casa Tavera | Kuka y Naranjo

Parking can be tight in Merida. I recommend calling your hotel ahead of time to confirm that there’s designated parking.

EXPLORE

After checking into your hotel, take an afternoon stroll along the elegant Paseo de Montejo. This iconic boulevard is lined with opulent mansions emblematic of Merida’s former wealth and power.

Start at the north end of Paseo de Montejo at the Monumento a la Patria. This vast, stone sculpture depicts carved scenes from key moments in Mexico’s history. As you make your way south, marvel at the luxurious mansions built by wealthy aristocrats during Merida’s “green gold” henequen boom. You can tour Quinta Montes Molina and Las Gemelas, peek inside Casona Inbursa, which is now a modern-day bank, and visit Palacio Cantón, home of Merida’s Museum of Anthropology.

Boutique shopping enthusiasts won’t want to miss the unique and luxurious shops inside Casa Tho, located at the southern end of Paseo de Montejo. Casa Tho is a stone’s throw from where your journey finishes, on the lively terrace at Sorbeteria Colon. A Merida institution for over 100 years, this busy outpost serves icy, homemade sorbets, as well as local dessert specialties. Try the sponge cake soaked in syrup called sopa borracha — it literally means “drunk soup!”

Dinner tonight is at Yerba Santa, an upscale restaurant serving creative plates inside the impeccable Casona El Miranet, a 20th-century mansion on Paseo de Montejo. If you’re up for it, have cocktails at the open-air terrace bar upstairs for after dinner. You’ll get up-close-and-personal with the French Rococo-style facade, and you can scale the adjoining tower for unparalleled views of the city. 

Not feeling a fancy dinner? Head over to Mercado 60, a lively food hall, where you can choose dishes from a variety of counters serving simple, Mexican eats accompanied by live music.

Day 6 | Merida & Uxmal

🚘 The drive from Merida to Uxmal is 1 hr & 10 minutes 🚘

EXPLORE

Merida in the Morning

Today you’ll spend the morning discovering downtown Merida, and the afternoon exploring Uxmal. The hottest and busiest time of day at Uxmal is between 10 am – 2 pm, so arriving later means it’ll be cooler, and the crowds will be thinned out.

Grab breakfast this morning at either Manjar Blanco or La Chaya Maya – two of Merida’s most celebrated restaurants. Afterward, roam Merida’s colorful and busy centro. You’ll find pastel-hued homes, quirky, colonial-era architecture, bougainvillea-drenched plazas, unique shops, and much more.

Calle 60 is a great place to start. Discover the stately Palacio de Gobierno, which is awash in hues of green, the striking Hotel Casa Azul, and the graceful, turn-of-the-century mansion, El Pinar. 

You’ll also find plenty to see and do in and around Plaza Grande, the heart of downtown Merida. 

On the edge of the square is the 16th-century Catedral de San Ildefonso, the oldest cathedral in the Americas. Art lovers can visit the Museum of Contemporary Art (or MACAY – Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Yucatán), as well as Museo Casa Montejo, which hosts permanent and visiting art exhibitions. And don’t forget your shot here with the iconic Merida letters.

You’ll discover Merida’s famous, 8-foot-tall tu y yo (you and I) chairs in Parque Santa Lucia. Across the street, duck into the pretty church of Iglesia de Santa Lucia. 

Finish exploring at Parroquia Santa Ana, an early 18th-century church that sits beside Parque Santa Ana. Then head around the corner to Mercado Santa Ana. It’s a great place to experience a typical, local food market, and it’s also where you can grab a yummy, affordable lunch.  

Next, it’s off to Uxmal. The site is open daily until 5 pm. Plan to arrive by 2 p.m., but no later than 3 p.m., to make the most of your visit. 

Uxmal in the Afternoon

Uxmal is an extraordinary archaeological site with many ruins that you can scale and enter. The site is pristinely preserved, with remarkable detail visible on numerous ruins. I’ve been to Uxmal several times, and I’ve never had issues with overcrowding preventing me from exploring or taking pictures. You also won’t find vendors trying to sell you something every 5-minutes, like at Chichen Itza. Overall, visiting Uxmal is a rewarding and relaxed experience. 

Highlights at Uxmal include The Pyramid of the Magician, The Great Pyramid and the Temple of the Macaws. But really, Uxmal is spectacular and the whole site is a highlight!  

Merida in the Evening

Dinner in Merida tonight is on Calle 47, better known as The Gastronomic Corridor, or El Corredor Gastronómico. This is Merida’s restaurant row, which is a foodie heaven featuring some of the city’s most popular restaurants. Take your pick and dine at one of these Merida hotspots: Ánimá, Micaela Mar y Leña, Catrin, or Oliva Trattoria.

Walk dinner off with a leisurely turn around the nearby Parque la Plancha, a former train station repurposed into downtown Merida’s central park. Well-lit and lively at night, the park features green areas, a large lake, walking paths, several playgrounds, a massive food hall, and dancing fountain shows that make it a wonderful place to stroll.

Tomorrow, your Mexico road trip resumes. Destination — Quintana Roo!

Day 7 | Tulum

🚘 The drive time from Merida to Tulum is 3 hours & 20 minutes 🚘

Tulum is the boho-chic beach town that skyrocketed the Riviera Maya to Instagram fame. As renowned for its magnificent beaches as it is for its electro-jungle-nightlife, and bougie yoga retreats, Tulum’s got a rep for being overhyped and overpriced. Yet there’s no denying that Tulum is blessed with some of Mexico’s most beautiful beaches, and some of the most extraordinary ruins and natural wonders in the region.

ARRIVE

Check into your hotel as soon as you arrive in Tulum. It’s been a long morning on the road, so today is going to be a pretty chillax beach day. You’ve earned it!

STAY

💎 BEST LUXURY HOTELS IN TULUM
🥂 Adults-only | Secrets Tulum Resort and Beach Club | Shibari Luxury Hotel and Cenote Club
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family-friendly | Hilton Tulum Riviera Maya All-Inclusive | Hilton Tulum Riviera Maya

💳 BEST MID-RANGE HOTELS IN TULUM
🥂 Adults-only | Encantada Tulum | The Beach Tulum
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family-friendly | La Zebra | Habitas Tulum

💰 BEST BUDGET HOTELS IN TULUM
🥂 Adults-only | Mi Amor Colibri Boutique Hotel | Dune Boutique Hotel
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family-friendly | Maya Tulum | Zamas Tulum

EXPLORE

The top choice for day 7 of your 10-day Yucatan Peninsula Itinerary is to bask on the marvelous shores of the Caribbean. You can enjoy the beach at your hotel, or head to a beach club.

Tulum’s beach clubs can be insanely expensive, which is why I prefer Playa Paraiso Beach Club. The cover is minimal, the food and drinks are solid and affordable, and Playa Paraiso is easily one of Tulum’s loveliest beaches.  

Beyond beaches, a visit to the Sian Ka’an Biosphere, which is filled with mangroves, marshes and exotic animals, is a must. One of my favorite destinations inside the biosphere is the blissful Laguna de Kaan Luum, an enormous shallow lake that feels like warm bathwater against your skin. Another incredible, Tulum experience is snorkeling at Cenotes Dos Ojos (Two Eyes Cenotes). This pair of neighboring cenotes is connected to the world’s largest underground, underwater cave, which measures a whopping 215-miles long!

Enjoy dinner tonight at your hotel, or venture out to Gitano, a swanky and popular spot known for its tacos and Mediterranean mezze. After dinner, wind your way down the scenic Beach Road. This major Tulum artery runs parallel to the sea, and features a feast of restaurants, chic boutiques, beach clubs, and resorts. It’s a great place to shop for (pricey) souvenirs, and to soak in Tulum’s famous nightlife.

Day 8 | Tulum Ruins & Playa del Carmen

🚘 The drive time from Tulum to Playa del Carmen is 54 minutes 🚘

Playa del Carmen started out as a sleepy fishing village that’s since exploded into one of the Riviera Maya’s hottest destinations. The city’s super-blue beaches, sexy hotels, diverse cuisine, and proximity to other wonders in southern Mexico make Playa, as the locals call it, a top tourist draw. Eclectic, vibrant, bustling, yet effortlessly laid-back, you’ll find that Playa sunnily emits “everyone’s welcome” vibes. 

ARRIVE

On your way to Playa del Carmen, make a pit stop at the breathtaking Tulum ruins, which are perched on a cliff above the Caribbean. Trust me – your IG feed will thank you! The ruins open at 8 a.m., and it should only take about 1 – 1 ½ hours to visit. If you get here early, you’ll still have plenty of time to enjoy a full day in Playa del Carmen. 

Leave Tulum and make your way north along Highway 307 to Playa del Carmen. It’s a fairly quick and straightforward drive, without any tolls, that takes less than an hour.

You know the drill — check into your hotel as soon as you arrive, and drop your luggage with reception. The Riviera Maya is calling! 

STAY

💎 THE BEST LUXURY HOTELS IN PLAYA DEL CARMEN
🥂 Adults-only | Impression Moxché by Secrets | Viceroy Riviera Maya
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family-friendly: Banyan Tree Mayakoba | Grand Velas Riviera Maya

⭐️ THE BEST BOUTIQUE HOTELS IN PLAYA DEL CARMEN
🥂 Adults-only | Magic Blue Spa Hotel | Be Playa
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family-friendly | Mvngata Beach Hotel | Puerto Aventuras Hotel and Beach Club

💰 THE BEST BOUTIQUE HOTELS IN PLAYA DEL CARMEN
🥂 Adults-only | The Carmen | The Reef 28
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family-friendly | Petit Lafitte | Quinta Margarita Boho Chic Hotel

EXPLORE

Start your day at Parque Fundadores (Founding Father’s Park) with a picture beneath the iconic Portal Maya sculpture. Then rent a bicycle at the nearest Bici Playa station, a citywide bicycle program that provides access to quick, easy bike rentals at several locations throughout the city. From here, you can pedal the scenic route along Tenth Avenue that runs parallel to the beach, or trek off-the-beaten-path to scour Playa in search of its famous street art. 

When you’re done, take a stroll along Quinta Avenida (Fifth Avenue). This pedestrianized thoroughfare is heaving with shops, art galleries, malls, bars, and restaurants. Its (relatively) tranquil by day, but really turns up at night. You’ll find plenty of restaurants where you can have lunch, or you can take a picnic to Punta Esmeralda, a picturesque beach that features a cenote right on the sand.

If you happen to be near Parque Fundadores before sunset, you can catch some impressive, live performances. A troupe of dancers performs Mayan dance rituals in full, ancient Maya regalia, and traditional dancers from Veracruz called Voladores de Papantla emerge. These brave (or crazy?) entertainers scamper up to the top of a heart-stoppingly tall platform, only to rappel back down to the ground while swinging on ropes. 

Alternatively, if you’re traveling with children, you could spend the day at one of the Grupo Xcaret water parks, like Xcaret, Xplor or Xel-Ha. There’s also the Rio Secreto, an underground cave filled with turquoise-hued water that’s framed by stalactites and stalagmites. Expect visiting the Xcaret water parks to take up the whole day. A tour of the Rio Secreto only takes about 3 1/2 hours.  

Dinner tonight is on my favorite street in Playa del Carmen, the Banyan tree-lined Calle 38. Amate 38 prepares regional specialties that please all palates, from meat-eaters to vegans. For desert, enjoy a uniquely-flavored frozen yogurt at Zo-Zen, which is just down the street. Enjoy your sweet treats outside on Zo-Zen’s deck so you can drink in the balmy, Playa night!

Day 9 | Cozumel

⛴️ The ferry ride from Playa del Carmen to Cozumel is 45 minutes ⛴️

Cozumel boasts some of Quintana Roo’s most extraordinary snorkeling, diving and beach-going, thanks to its privileged proximity to the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef. The surreal clarity of Cozumel’s waters give you the opportunity to come face-to-face with over 500 species of fish, and 70 species of coral. Back on dry land, Cozumel is a chilled-out paradise that’s known for its exceptional beaches, friendly locals and amazing cuisine. 

ARRIVE

Day 9 of your epic, 10-day Yucatan Peninsula itinerary sees you off to Cozumel, just 12 miles across the shore from Playa del Carmen. Getting to Cozumel requires taking a 45-minute ferry ride. (I cover all the ferry details in the Logistics section below).

You have 3 options for what to do with your rental car:

🚘 Take your rental car with you on the car ferry.

🚘 Arrange to leave your rental car overnight at your hotel in Playa del Carmen, and take a taxi to the ferry terminal. 

🚘 Park your rental car in a secured lot close to the ferry terminal.

I always take my car to Cozumel because I prefer having freedom to explore the island, especially the beautiful beaches on the eastern side. Cozumel has taxis, but no Uber or other rideshare apps. So if getting around by car is important to you, and you don’t want to pay extra for taxis, take the car ferry.

Prepare to leave Playa del Carmen for Cozumel in the morning so you have the whole day on the island. If you’re taking the passenger ferry (no car), you will leave from the ferry terminal in downtown Playa del Carmen. If you are taking the car ferry, you will leave from the terminal at Punta Venado, just outside of Playa del Carmen.

STAY

For those on the adults-only vacation plan, most hotels and resorts in Cozumel are family-friendly. This means adults-only options are limited. However, I’ve included all that exist on the island below.  

Here are the top hotel options:

💎 THE BEST LUXURY HOTELS IN COZUMEL
🥂 Adults-only | Secrets Aura Cozumel | Hotel B Unique
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family-friendly | Cozumel Palace | Intercontinental Presidente Resort and Spa

💳 THE BEST MID-RANGE HOTELS IN COZUMEL
🥂 Adults-only | Ventanas al Mar
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family-friendly | The Explorean Cozumel | The Westin

💰 THE BEST BUDGET HOTELS IN COZUMEL
🥂 Adults-only | Coralia Boutique Hotel
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family-friendly | Fiesta Americana | Hotel Boutique Vista del Mar

EXPLORE

Cozumel is a breathtaking, underwater paradise that’s all about Mother Nature. So prepare to spend the final leg of your 10-day Yucatan Peninsula itinerary immersed beneath the sea.

The day starts with a big, bucket list checkmark – an excursion to the Cozumel Reefs National Marine Park. Boasting some of the most spectacularly translucent water and dazzling underwater gardens you’ll ever see, this premier Cozumel spot for snorkeling and diving is home to an astonishing 26 species of coral, and 300 species of fish.

Book a boat tour to take you out to explore the area’s spectacular underwater highlights: Palancar Reef, Columbia Reef and the exquisite El Cielo. The sea runs shallow in some spots, and deeper in others, making this an ideal spot for snorkelers and divers of all experience levels. My son had the time of his life the first time I took him snorkeling here, when he was just 6!

Once you’re back on land, you have a few options. You can visit the sprawling Punta Sur Ecological Park, which is right next to the Reefs National Marine Park. Scale the lighthouse for sweeping, 360 degree views of the island, take the free boat ride to see sea turtles and crocodiles, and grab lunch at the beach club. 

Or, go for a scenic drive around the wild, eastern side of the island. This remote part of Cozumel boasts several gorgeous beaches, like Chen Rio and Ixpalbarco. The beaches here are more challenging to access than along other parts of the island, but this also makes them more private. If you have a little time before sunset, zip through the island’s interior for a peek at the San Gervasio archaeological site.

Spend the evening meandering through the labyrinth of streets in San Miguel de Cozumel before you head off to dinner. Cozumel’s surprising foodie scene spoils the palate for choice. My top restaurant recs for celebrating your last night of your epic, southern Mexico road trip are Buccanno’s at Night, Kondesa and Ix Kool.

For more excellent Cozumel eats, check out my article on the island’s best vegetarian and vegan cuisine.     

DAY 10 | Cancun & Departure

🚘 The drive from Playa del Carmen to Cancun International Airport is 45 minutes 🚘

Parting is such sweet sorrow! Sadly, even the most epic of vacations must come to an end. But fortunately, this ending comes with a final ferry ride across the glittering Caribbean Sea. 

ARRIVE

Board your ferry in Cozumel head back to Playa del Carmen. A morning ferry is preferred so you can carve out a bit more time to explore once you get to Cancun.

When you’re back in Playa, pick up your rental if you’ve left it parked somewhere overnight. Make your way north along highway 307 to Cancun International Airport.  

EXPLORE

If you find yourself with extra time on your hands for exploring before your flight, scour the Mayan ruins located inside Cancun’s Hotel Zone. Who knew such ancient wonders existed among all those glitzy resorts!

Once part of an important, ancient trade route, the El Rey ruins are located close to the airport. Alternatively, you can visit the lesser-known San Miguelito ruins, composed of 15 structures that date to between the 11th – 13th centuries. Both sites were part of the chiefdom of Kuchkabal, and should only take about an hour to visit. If you prefer your Mayan history with a little A/C, take a guided tour of the excellent Mayan Museum of Cancun, which is right down the street. 

DEPART

Make sure your ferry from Cozumel leaves you with enough time to drop off your rental car before your flight. This is Mexico. Delays happen. Often. Planning for wiggle room is always a good idea. 

Best case, everything goes smoothly. Worse case, you’re stuck spending another night in paradise. Viva Mexico!

10 Day Yucatan Peninsula Itinerary
Logistics

How to Rent a Car at Cancun International Airport

I advise booking your rental car in advance of your arrival in Mexico. Unless you have points, rewards, special incentives, or discount rates for booking directly with a particular rental car agency, I recommend using a booking aggregator to mine the best cars and prices. Discover Cars and Booking.com are both solid choices.

Make sure you book your rental car for pickup at Cancun International Airport. There is zero reason to rent your car anywhere else. Booking at the airport will save you time with pick-up and drop-off, and the airport has the widest selection of cars available in the area. You’ll find all the usual rental companies here like Hertz, Alamo, National, Enterprise, etc.

You’ll see several rental car agency desks just outside of the exit after picking up your luggage. Stop at the appropriate counter and they’ll direct you to a shuttle that takes you to the lot where your rental car is located. The lots are all very close to the airport, so this should be relatively quick. 

Once you arrive at the lot, you’ll need to present a valid driver’s license and a credit card to collect your car. Car rental agencies in Mexico have a minimum requirement of Mexican Personal Liability insurance. But in my opinion, your best bet is to buy Full Coverage insurance which covers anything that mind go wrong. Peace of mind is the ultimate vacay!  

What to Expect Driving on Your Southern Mexico Road Trip

On longer stretches of your drive between cities, two types of roads exist: free roads (called libre roads), and toll roads (called cuota roads). Stick to the toll roads whenever you can, especially if you’re driving at night (although, please don’t drive at night!). Mexico’s toll roads are straightforward, and generally in excellent condition. 

Yes, paying for toll roads adds up. But it’s worth it because they’re safer and better maintained. It rains frequently in the Yucatan Peninsula, and trust me, the last thing you want is to be stuck in the middle of nowhere on a flooded, libre road. 

Another thing to watch for are topes, or speed bumps. These aren’t your garden variety mounds of smooth asphalt. Mexico’s speed bumps are mercilessly designed to rip out the underside of your car. If you get lucky, there might be a sign signaling that one is coming up. But be warned that most topes sneak up on you.

The moral of this story is to avoid speeding in Mexico at all costs. And always be prepared to slow down at a moment’s notice.  

At gas stations in Mexico, attendants pump your gas. Pull right up to the pump and let the attendant have at it. All you do is tell them what kind of gas you want, and how much. Always look to be sure that the display is set to zero before they start pumping.

Most gas stations take credit cards, but it’s always a good idea to have cash. It’s customary to tip gas station attendants $10 MXN – $20 MXN (about $0.50 cents – $1). If they wash your windows or put air in your tires, $50 MXN – about $2.50 – is considered a good tip.

How Much Do Yucatan Peninsula Toll Roads Cost?

Here’s a helpful breakdown of costs for some of the toll roads you’ll hit on your 10-day Yucatan Peninsula itinerary:

💰 Merida to Chichen Itza – $129 pesos
💰 Merida to Valladolid – $223 pesos
💰 Chichen Itza to Valladolid – $94 pesos
💰 Valladolid to Cancun – $385 pesos
💰 Merida to Cancun – $609 pesos
💰 Merida to Playa del Carmen: $544 pesos

Road Trip Tips for Your 10-day Yucatan Peninsula Itinerary

📍 Download an offline map | Wifi can be spotty on the road. Before you set out, it’s a good idea to have an offline map handy.

🌙 Don’t drive at night | There’s no reason to be on the road at night if you’re following this 10-day Yucatan Peninsula itinerary. Driving inside of a city to and from dinner, or an event, is fine. Hitting the highway at 9 p.m. because you want to catch the sunrise in Tulum is not. Be safe and avoid driving at night. 

👮‍♀️ Slow down and keep cool at police and military checkpoints – We discussed this one above, but just to reiterate, police and military checkpoints are frequent and no cause for alarm. Be prepared to slow down so they can take quick look inside your car. 

🚦 Avoid libre roads between cities – Again, there’s no reason to use anything but a toll road during longer stretches of your 10-day Yucatan Peninsula itinerary.

💵 Always carry money for tolls and tips – Make sure to keep pesos and change handy for toll roads and tips.

⚠️ Yellow means no parking – Don’t park on curbs that are painted yellow. White and unpainted curbs are fine, but yellow curbs mean no parking. I did this once in Playa del Carmen and returned to a boot on my car. Please mind where you’re parking!

🅿️ Call your hotel ahead of time to ask about parking – In dense, colonial cities like Merida and Valladolid, overnight street parking can be hard to come by, so make sure that your hotel has a garage. Larger hotels in Cancun, Tulum and Playa should have on-site parking, or arrangements with local garages.

How to Take the Ferry to Cozumel

Two ferry companies run the route from Playa del Carmen to Cozumel: Ultramar and Winjet. I’ve only used Ultramar, which is reliable, air-conditioned and has plenty of (unassigned) seating. Although I’ve never ferried on Winjet, several friends of mine who vouch for it.

While Ultramar and Winjet both have ferries designated to transport cars, only Winjet has car ferries that leave in the morning. The departure point is Punta Venado, just outside of Playa del Carmen. 

To stick to this 10-day Yucatan Peninsula itinerary, you’ll want to take the Winjet car ferry that leaves Playa del Carmen Monday through Saturday at 9:30 in the morning.

Return Winjet car ferries leave from Cozumel at 4:00 a.m, 12:30 p.m. and 7:15 p.m. Monday through Friday, on Saturdays at 4:00 a.m. and 1:30 p.m., and on Sundays at 7:00 a.m. and 7:15 p.m.

If you’re not taking your vehicle, then the Ultramar ferry is a great option. You can book tickets and search the ferry schedules for both companies at the links below:

Ultramar — Adults $30 USD | Kids $24 USD
Winjet — Adults $28 USD | Kids $19 USD     

Car ferry pricing varies according to vehicle, which is why it’s not included here. Consult the Winjet website to learn more.

Both Ultramar and Winjet run according to strict schedules, so booking in advance is highly recommended. Especially if you’re taking a car, as space and scheduling are limited.

Parking Your Rental Car in Playa del Carmen While You’re in Cozumel

As I mentioned above, you can always try to arrange an extra night of parking at your hotel in Playa del Carmen. That way all you have to do is taxi to the ferry terminal and you’re off.

If this option doesn’t work for you, there are secured parking lots where you can pay to keep your car overnight. You can ask for a recommendation at your hotel, or try Parking Playa. I’ve personally never parked with Parking Playa, but I’ve heard favorable things about them.

If you leave your rental car in Playa overnight, make sure that you take pictures so you have proof of the condition you left it in. And it goes without saying to never leave valuables in your car overnight (or ever!).

10-Day Yucatan Peninsula Itinerary
FAQs

Is the Yucatan Peninsula Worth Visiting?

I mean… If you’ve read this far, the answer is obviously a big fat resounding YES!

Is the Yucatan Peninsula Safe to Visit?

Generally, yes. The Yucatan Peninsula is very safe to visit. In fact, the state of Yucatan is considered to be the safest state in all of Mexico, and Merida the second safest city in the whole of North America.

I have spent extensive time in every city mentioned in this article, and driven every road you’ll drive if you follow this 10-day Yucatan Peninsula itinerary. Never once have I encountered any negative safety issues.

Unfortunately, the nightlife in the Quintana Roo cities of Tulum, Playa del Carmen and Cancun has been known to incite organized crime activity. Because of this, these cities are heavily-policed, which should help give you peace of mind when you visit. The best way to avoid crime is to NOT do drugs or buy drugs in Mexico, to NOT be out drunk into the wee hours, make sure someone knows where you are at all times, and avoid sketchy people and places.

Please take safety precautions that you would anywhere else in the world. Don’t drive at night, be flashy with money or goods, make a show of pulling out maps in public places, etc.

What Should You Pack for 10 days in the Yucatan Peninsula?

☀️ SPF

🩳 Shorts

👚 T-shirts

🩱 Swimsuit

👗 Sundress

🕶️ Sunglasses

👖 Light pants

🩴 Water shoes

💦 Quick dry towel

🤿 Snorkeling equipment

📸 A camera and/or Go-Pro

👟 Comfortable walking shoes

🧢 A cap or wide-brimmed hat

💧 Thermos or refillable water bottle

☂️ Lightweight, collapsible umbrella

🧣 Blouse or light shawl to protect shoulders from sun / visit churches

Is there sargassum on Yucatan Peninsula Beaches?

The short answer to this question? Possibly, yes.

Here’s the long one:

Sargassum “season” mostly affects Mexico’s Caribbean beaches, and it usually runs from April to October. However, as climate change evolves, the annual arrival time of sargassum is increasingly unpredictable. Additionally, some years the amount of sargassum that arrives along Mexico’s Caribbean is minimal. Other years, its heavy and poses serious challenges.

Your best bet is to stay on top of local sargassum conditions by contacting your hotel shortly before your trip. My top recommendation is to monitor the situation yourself by joining one of the region’s local Facebook groups that monitor the sargassum daily.

Here is a link to my preferred group, The Sargassum Monitoring Network (La Red de Monitoreo del Sargazo).

The Wrap

I hope you find my ultimate, 10-day Yucatan Peninsula itinerary to be packed with everything (and more!) you need to for an epic, southern Mexico road trip! Even though it covers quite a lot, trust me — there’s still tons more to do in this lush, jungle region of Mexico. Which is why I’m working on a companion piece, stat! For now, you’ve got plenty of exploring to do!

Reach out in the comments if I can help you out with any questions.

As always, inspired travels Amiga! 💜

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