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Planning a vacation in Mexico's Riviera Maya, and wondering whether to stay exploring Tulum or Cancun? Well, both cities are top vacation destinations, especially when it comes to great beach life. Over 2.4 million travelers visit Cancun every year, and Tulum receives more than 1.5 million tourists. There are obvious reasons why these Mexican cities are the most popular in the country. They both offer incredible white sandy beaches, accessible Mayan ruins, lush forests, and fantastic views. When two destinations are so good, choosing one can be a difficult task. Ideally, visiting both cities would be great, but it isn’t an option for every tourist. While these two magnificent cities have a lot in common, they offer travelers very diverse vacation experiences. Here is a guide to help visitors choose the right destination for their next holiday.
Tulum Vs. Cancun
About Tulum
Tulum is recognized for its chill vibe. That means, visiting Tulum is for travelers looking for a full relaxation experience. Its atmosphere is so relaxed, and people are not rushing to do staff. The spot has plenty of trendy hotels, and top-notch restaurants, serving great cuisine, hostels, and colorful food stalls. Despite its laid-back atmosphere, Tulum guarantees great nightlife, and there are vibrant locations to explore. The destination attracts families, backpackers, as well as A-listers. Yogis can also have a wonderful vacation in Tulum, thanks to the many yoga classes offered across the city.
Tulum’s beaches offer something special to beach lovers, especially the snorkelers and scuba divers, as there is a beautiful underwater scene to experience. The reef fish is colorful, and the marine life is breathtaking. Travelers can go for day trips and explore Tulum's ancient ruins, blue holes, and picturesque spas.
In terms of development, Cancun is more developed, and travelers are less likely to find skyscrapers in Tulum.
About Cancun
On the other hand, Cancun is brimming with skyscrapers and a plethora of beautiful restaurants serving great food. This destination is famous for its vibrant nightlife and has become a popular spot for party lovers. Nightclubs are almost everywhere in Cancun, and most travelers come here for Spring Break.
While Cancun is popular for its great party scene, there are other beautiful experiences travelers can get through in this magnificent destination. The luxury hotels and the beautiful resorts are affordable, and travelers of all budgets are always covered.
The beachside resorts are spectacular and come with the tastiest cocktails and incredible views of the Caribbean. Cancun is a popular destination for couples and a perfect getaway for visitors looking for a break from city life. Those visiting this city have the magnificent Caribbean Sea right next to them, giving them plenty of opportunities to experience most of the place. Tourists can go on several days' trips and engage in enjoyable underwater activities.
Both Tulum and Cancun are incredible to visit at any time of the year, as they're a lot to explore, and each season comes with different attractions.
Getting To Tulum Vs. Cancun
Serving the entire Riviera Maya is Cancun International Airport, and every visitor traveling to Yukutan Peninsula has to fly into the airport. Tulum on the other hand, has no airport yet, although there are plans underway to open Tulum International Airport by 2023. Without an airport, it takes a bit longer to get to Tulum as one has to connect via Cancun.
- The time it takes to get to Tulum from Cancun, depending on the mode of transport: Is approximately two hours.
Travelers can use private shuttles, rent a car, or take a taxi from Cancun International Airport to Tulum.
In terms of getting to either of the cities, it is definitely faster, more affordable, and easier to get to Cancun than Tulum.
Tulum Vs. Cancun: Accommodation
In both cities, tourists won’t experience difficulty in finding a place to stay. The difference is that visitors will find the big all-inclusive hotels in Cancun and other incredible condos to spend some cool nights. Downtown Cancun, the hotels ranging from business to resort hotels, are available in different sizes.
- Top Hotels in Cancun: Turquoize at Hyatt Ziva Cancun, Hyatt Ziva Cancun, Presidente Cancun
On the other hand, Tulum has small boutique hotels and not big resorts and hotels as in Cancun. In those small hotels, travelers can meet nature at its most impressive, and they are luxurious too. Some of the most beautiful hotels in Cancun are mounted around Tulum Beach.
- Top Hotels in Tulum: Shambala Petit Hotel, Azucar Hotel Tulum, Papaya Playa Project
While Cancun is more developed than Tulum, when it comes to the cost of accommodation, Tulum is more expensive. Travelers can spend about $250 to stay in a 5-star hotel per night and about $70 for three stars or less. Low-budget hotels can cost about $30 on average.
In Tulum, one is more likely to spend about $400 per night to sleep in a luxury hotel, $80 for a mid-budget option, and $20 for a low-budget hotel.
Cancun is a better option when deciding which destination to visit based on accommodation because there are many luxurious hotels at affordable prices and various budget-friendly options.
Tulum Vs. Cancun: The Cost Of Travel
Tulum is one of Mexico's most expensive destinations, making it the second option when traveling on a budget. It is, however, possible to explore both cities on a budget, especially if one is visiting for a longer period.
Use couch surf to stay at the locals for free. This helps to cut travel costs and also offers travelers a chance of interacting with the locals and learning their ways of life.
A local meal will cost around $4.5 in Tulum and $4 in Cancun. It will cost around $50 on average to stay in Cancun for one day, and $80 in Tulum.
Cancun is a destination when comparing the two cities based on travel costs.
Which Mexican City Is Better For A Vacation?
Cancun is the better destination, and not just because of its vibrant nightlife and affordability. There are a bunch of activities and many attractions to explore in Cancun. But if one is looking for a relaxed atmosphere with not-so-vibrant nightlife and beautiful sandy beaches, then consider Tulum.