Our local 3-day Tulum itinerary is designed to take you off the beaten path and show you the authentic side of this Mexican paradise.
Say goodbye to the tourist crowds and hello to hidden gems you won’t find in the guidebooks. Let’s explore Tulum like a local!
What to do in Tulum
Tulum is a part of Mexico that caters to all. You can get lost by immersing yourself in authentic Mexican vibe as well as experience the eclectic Boho Luxury side of it. Even though the beach resort scene in Tulum is incredible, in this blog we take you with us to some unique places completely locally. Come with us as we share with you our local 3-day Tulum itinerary for a true cultural experience.
Day 1: Mayan Ruins & Snorkelling in the Caribbean Sea
Tulum falls in the Yucatan Peninsula, which had been home to the Mayans, years ago. There is a strong Mayan cultural influence in Tulum and its nearby areas. The Mayan ruins are still preserved in the peninsula so dedicate your first day in understanding the history of this marvellous ancient site.
Getting to Tulum Ruins from Downtown Tulum.
- Taxi: A quick 10-minute ride, costing 250 to 350 pesos.
- Bike: For the adventurous, enjoy a 40-minute bike ride. Bike rentals are 175 pesos per day.
- Public Transport: An affordable 20-minute ride at 30 to 35 pesos one way.
You can also take public transport or a taxi to nearby town, Playa del Carmen to see the ruins. However, Tulum ruins (Ruinas Tulum) are closer from downtown Tulum and a great experience in itself.
At Tulum Ruins entrance, you will be asked to choose between a walking tour of the ruins or a full package including ferry ride for 750 pesos. We highly recommend you choose the walking tour only and experience the ferry ride separately.
Be careful not to disrupt the Iguanas while walking along the Mayan ruins. This is their home and we are guests.
After exploring the ruins, head to Playa Access (Beach) and unwind on the stunning shoreline. Consider taking a ferry ride to explore the ruins from a different perspective and even snorkel with stingrays and turtles. The ferry ride is a 45 minutes long guided tour.
Visit Casa Tortuga
If you’re up for some more adventure, visit Casa Tortuga, which is just across the road from Ruinas Tulum. These public cenotes can get busy during peak hours, but they’re worth the visit. This area has 5 amazing Cenotes that are next to each other.
Day 2: Visit Chemuyil Village and Hidden Cenotes
For a genuine Tulum experience, take a trip to Chemuyil, a small village just a 20-minute drive from Tulum. Here, you’ll get a taste of local Mayan life away from the tourist hubs. Click Here To Book!
Trust us, it is very safe and enjoyable.
The experience includes biking through Mayan jungles with a local guide, visiting three unique and private cenotes, and taking a refreshing dip in each. Along the way, you’ll hear fascinating tales from the Mayan culture. The day ends with delicious home-cooked snacks and beverages. Who knows, you might even make some local Mayan friends!
Click here for a fun read about the complete experience.
Return back to Tulum and enjoy your evening with street tacos and margaritas.
Day 3: Explore Tulum on Two Wheels
Don’t worry; we won’t leave out the fantastic beach clubs! On your third day, rent a bike from one of the many rental spots in downtown Tulum. Ride through Tulum Downtown, grab souvenirs from vibrant street shops, and enjoy lunch on the go.
From Tulum Avenue (downtown), you can reach the Hotel Zone where all the luxury beach clubs are, by hitting the Coba Avenue.
From Tulum Avenue, head towards the Hotel Zone, home to luxurious beach clubs. Catch a mesmerising sunset at one of these clubs and sip a cocktail. Afterward, return to Central Tulum for dinner and catch a live band performance in one of the charming cafes or bars.
We were lucky enough to catch performances by upcoming artists @shoaomusic and @loscaguamos.
Where to stay in Tulum
Consider staying at La Tulumena, a boutique hotel located conveniently across from the main ADO bus station. With its jungle-inspired interiors, open bathrooms, and bamboo accents, it offers an affordable and boho-chic experience.
Where to eat in Tulum Downtown
Tulum caters to all budgets, so don’t hesitate to try the street food scene in Tulum Centro. For as little as a dollar, you can savour delicious tacos. Choose the carts with long lines for a safe bet.
Other places to eat and drink in Downtown Tulum
- Bonita – Great vibe with live music
- Las margaritas – Incredible Margaritas and authentic Mexican Food
- Rossina – Quaint cafe with delicious smoothies and pizzas
- Kalhua Bar and Restaurant – Good food with great commercial music
- Encanto – Luxury in the heart of Tulum Downtown
- Burgerito – A tiny breakfast place with amazing staff
Getting around Tulum in Public Transport
The Yucatan Peninsula offers reliable public transportation through the ADO bus service. You can pre-book your bus online or purchase tickets at the ADO bus station located conveniently on Tulum Avenue. To explore Tulum, hop on a Collectivo bus, a van that frequently connects Downtown Tulum to the Hotel Zone and nearby towns and villages. Each ride costs around 30 to 35 pesos, and you can catch them from Tulum Avenue opposite the ADO bus station.
Now you’re all set to explore Tulum like a true local! If you enjoyed this local 3-day Tulum itinerary and want to know more about local travel, read our blog Getting Around Cancun in Public Transit here.
