Ultimate 10 Day Riviera Maya Itinerary

This 10-day Riviera Maya Itinerary breaks down everything you need to know, from where to go and how long to stay, to what to do in each beach town along the way.

Whether you’re spending a full ten days or adjusting for a shorter visit, you can easily use this itinerary as a flexible guide and tailor it to your travel style.

The Riviera Maya is one of Mexico’s most stunning regions, stretching from Puerto Morelos and Playa del Carmen down to Tulum and Akumal.

It’s packed with turquoise beaches, lush jungles, crystal-clear cenotes, Mayan ruins, and unforgettable food and nightlife.

Having explored the Riviera Maya many times, I know each town inside and out, how to get between them, where to stay, and what’s worth your time

In this guide, I’ll share my insider tips and favorite stops to help you plan your perfect route through the region.

If this is your first time visiting, check out my transportation guide for getting from Cancun Airport to Playa del Carmen, it’ll make your arrival much smoother.

Day 1–3: Playa del Carmen

You’ve landed at Cancun International Airport, your Riviera Maya adventure starts now! The first stop, Playa del Carmen, is where the good times truly start.

While Cancun is known for its sprawling all-inclusive resorts and postcard-perfect beaches, it often lacks that local, small-town feel.

Playa del Carmen, on the other hand, blends beach life with a more authentic Mexican atmosphere and is much easier to explore on foot.

This coastal city is best known for its beautiful shoreline, the iconic 5th Avenue (Quinta Avenida) shopping and nightlife strip, and its wide variety of restaurants, taquerias and beach clubs. It’s walkable, energetic, and strikes a balance between relaxation and excitement.

During the day, stroll 5th Avenue’s pedestrian zone lined with boutiques, street performers, and cafes, or spend the afternoon lounging at a beach club like Lido Beach Club or Mamita’s.

If you’re after adventure, book a snorkeling trip to the nearby reef at Playa Maroma or take a ferry to Cozumel for the day.

At night, Playa del Carmen transforms into a lively social hub. Whether it’s bar-hopping along 12th Street, catching the acrobat shows at Coco Bongo, or enjoying cocktails at a rooftop lounge, there’s no shortage of nightlife in Playa del Carmen.

Traveling with family? Head to Xcaret Park, one of the Riviera Maya’s best-known eco-adventure parks.

It’s part cultural experience, part amusement park, with underground rivers, wildlife, and evening performances celebrating Mexico’s heritage.

Playa del Carmen offers a little bit of everything, beach relaxation, urban energy, and easy access to the rest of the Riviera Maya, making it the perfect starting point for your trip.

The best part about Playa del Carmen is how easy it is to get around. The town is incredibly walkable, you can reach just about anywhere within 15–30 minutes on foot.

It’s the kind of place where you can truly relax without worrying about taxis or public transport.

If you’re craving some outdoor adventure beyond the beach, Playa del Carmen also has a few nearby cenotes and underground caves worth exploring.

The Rio Secreto Nature Reserve is the most famous, offering guided tours through crystal-clear underground rivers.

That said, if you’re a cenote enthusiast, the most stunning ones are located further inland around Valladolid and Tulum, so save some time later in your trip for those.

Food lovers, you’re in for a treat here, there are many great restaurants to try in Playa del Carmen.

The food scene is one of the best in the Riviera Maya, offering everything from local taquerias to upscale international dining.

Grab some authentic tacos al pastor at El Fogon, or if you’re in the mood for something different, try one of the many Italian, Japanese, or vegan restaurants along 5th Avenue.

If you have three days in Playa del Carmen, dedicate one full day to Cozumel, the island just across the water.

It’s only a 40-minute ferry ride away and well worth the trip. Cozumel is famous for its incredible snorkeling and diving, vibrant coral reefs, and fun excursions like ATV off-roading, jeep tours, and laid-back beach clubs that make for a perfect day trip.

By the time you wrap up your stay in Playa del Carmen, you’ll have experienced a mix of beach relaxation, great food, and a taste of adventure, the perfect way to start your Riviera Maya journey.

Playa del Carmen has accommodations for every traveler, from beachfront resorts to boutique stays in the city center. If you’re deciding where to base yourself, check out my detailed guide on the best places to stay in Playa del Carmen.

Day 4: Valladolid & Chichen Itza

After wrapping up your stay in Playa del Carmen, it’s time to head inland to your next destination, the charming colonial town of Valladolid.

Leave Playa del Carmen early in the morning so you can arrive in Valladolid by midday.

Once you’re there, spend the rest of the day exploring this colorful, small-town gem.

Valladolid is known for its pastel-colored streets, historic churches, and authentic Yucatán cuisine served in cozy, family-run restaurants.

When it comes to cenotes, you’ll be spoiled for choice. Some of the most famous are Cenote Suytun (famous for its Instagram-perfect platform), Cenote Ik Kil, and Cenote Hubiku.

Each offers a unique experience, from dramatic cave settings to open-air swimming spots surrounded by lush vegetation.

The next morning, wake up early and visit Chichen Itza, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and the most iconic Mayan archaeological site in Mexico.

Getting there early is key to avoiding both the heat and the tour bus crowds that roll in by mid-morning.

Chichen Itza was once a major city for the ancient Maya civilization, and today it stands as one of the most breathtaking cultural landmarks in the world.

From the Temple of Kukulkan (El Castillo) to the Great Ball Court and the Cenote Sagrado, there’s a powerful sense of history in every stone.

While some travelers choose to visit Chichen Itza as a day trip from Playa del Carmen or Tulum, it can be a long day when it comes to travel time.

The drive takes about three hours each way, that’s six hours of travel in one day, which leaves you exhausted and rushed.

Instead, spend the night in Valladolid. You’ll not only cut down on travel time but also get the chance to enjoy the town’s local markets, cenotes, and evening charm at a more relaxed pace.

Once you’ve finished exploring Chichen Itza in the morning of Day 4, check out of your hotel and continue your Riviera Maya adventure, next stop: Tulum!

Day 5–7: Tulum

Welcome to Tulum, a small yet world-famous beach town celebrated for its Mayan Ruins, stunning beaches, cenotes, boutique hotels, and vibrant nightlife.

Tulum blends ancient history with modern bohemian energy, making it one of the most distinctive places in the Riviera Maya.

Whether you’re visiting solo, with friends, or as a family, there’s no shortage of things to do here.

Your first stop should be the Tulum Ruins, perched dramatically on a cliff overlooking the turquoise Caribbean Sea.

Once a bustling Mayan port city, it’s now one of Mexico’s most photogenic archaeological sites.

Don’t skip the short trail down to the beach below the ruins, it’s one of the few spots where you can swim beside a UNESCO-listed site!

Next, explore Tulum’s famous cenotes, natural sinkholes filled with crystal-clear freshwater.

You’ll find dozens within minutes of town, some hidden in the jungle, others open and family-friendly.

A must-visit is Casa Tortuga Cenote Park, where four unique cenotes await, perfect for swimming and snorkeling.

For beach time, head to Tulum North Beach, one of the most beautiful stretches of coastline in the Riviera Maya.

Its long, wide shorelines open directly to the Caribbean Sea, creating postcard-perfect views.

In the evening, make your way to Tulum National Park, just beside the beach, and take a short sunset walk up the coastal trails, the scenery is unforgettable.

Tulum’s atmosphere perfectly balances relaxation and adventure. Between yoga studios, beach clubs, and late-night jungle parties, you’ll quickly understand why this town has become a global favorite.

One of the best things about Tulum is its incredible food scene. The town is packed with some of the best restaurants in the Riviera Maya, offering everything from upscale beachfront dining to cozy taquerias tucked away in town.

Whether you’re indulging in fresh ceviche by the sea or grabbing late-night tacos from a local food truck, you’ll quickly see why Tulum is a food lover’s paradise.

Don’t skip the street food in Tulum Centro; this is where locals and travelers come together for authentic eats at wallet-friendly prices.

The taco trucks and small cantinas here serve up some of the most flavorful dishes you’ll find anywhere in Mexico.

Tulum’s nightlife is another major highlight. Visitors from around the world come for the beach clubs in Tulum, where daytime lounging often turns into vibrant evening parties.

If you’re craving something wilder, head inland for the famous jungle parties, where international DJs spin under the stars.

In town, you’ll find a mix of casual bars, lounges, and nightclubs catering to every kind of vibe, from laid-back mezcal cocktails to high-energy dance floors.

When you’re ready for a change of pace, take a short 30-minute drive north to the small coastal town of Akumal, one of the most beautiful and peaceful spots in the Riviera Maya.

It’s best known for its calm, turquoise bay, home to several species of sea turtles that you can often swim alongside. Visiting Akumal makes for a perfect afternoon escape or a family-friendly day trip from Tulum.

By the morning of Day 7, check out of your hotel and get ready to head toward your final stop in the itinerary, Puerto Morelos or Isla Mujeres, two coastal gems that wrap up your Riviera Maya adventure perfectly.

Day 8–10: Puerto Morelos or Isla Mujeres

As you near the end of your Riviera Maya itinerary, it’s time to slow the pace and choose your final stop: Puerto Morelos or Isla Mujeres, both charming, laid-back destinations conveniently close to Cancun International Airport.

Puerto Morelos is a peaceful beach town along the Riviera Maya coastline, known for its wide sandy shores, relaxed atmosphere, and friendly locals. It’s the kind of place where time seems to move slower.

Compared to Cancun and Playa del Carmen, Puerto Morelos feels wonderfully quiet and authentic, ideal for travelers wanting to unwind after a busy trip.

Spend your days snorkeling the Puerto Morelos Reef, part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef (the second-largest in the world), or enjoying a beachfront lunch at one of the town’s open-air seafood restaurants.

You could also simply relax under the palm trees with a drink in hand. Puerto Morelos might not have the buzz of other Riviera Maya destinations, but that’s exactly its charm, it’s all about easygoing, small-town living.

If you’d rather end your trip somewhere livelier but still scenic, hop over to Isla Mujeres instead.

The ferry from Cancun only takes about 20 minutes, and once you arrive, you’re greeted by crystal-clear turquoise waters and a tropical island atmosphere that’s impossible not to love.

There are countless things to do in Isla Mujeres, from renting a golf cart to explore the island, snorkeling at Garrafon Natural Reef Park, or relaxing at the famous Playa Norte, often ranked among the most beautiful beaches in the world.

Its calm, shallow waters and lively beach clubs make it perfect for a full day of sun and relaxation.

Adventure seekers can take a catamaran cruise, go diving, or even swim with whale sharks during the summer season.

Prefer something slower? Hop aboard a daytime sailboat, sip a cocktail, and soak up the Caribbean views before catching an unforgettable sunset in the island’s lively downtown.

While both Puerto Morelos and Isla Mujeres offer a peaceful finale to your Riviera Maya journey, the vibe of each is distinct.

Puerto Morelos feels quiet and rustic, ideal for total relaxation, while Isla Mujeres blends tranquility with a touch of energy and nightlife.

The best part? Both destinations are conveniently close to Cancun International Airport, making them easy final stops.

Puerto Morelos is roughly a 20-minute drive away, while Isla Mujeres takes about an hour in total, including the ferry ride from Cancun’s port.

Whichever you choose, you’ll end your trip with sandy feet, sun-kissed skin, and the kind of memories that perfectly sum up the Riviera Maya experience.

Optional: 7 Day Riviera Maya Itinerary

If you’re short on time but still want to experience the best of Mexico’s Caribbean coast, this 7-day Riviera Maya itinerary is a great alternative to the full 10-day plan.

It focuses on the highlights: Isla Mujeres, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum, while keeping travel days manageable.

Day 1: Arrive at Cancun International Airport and take the ferry to Isla Mujeres. Spend your first afternoon unwinding on Playa Norte, one of Mexico’s most beautiful beaches.

Enjoy dinner by the sea and watch your first Caribbean sunset, there’s no better way to start your trip.

Day 2–4: Take the ferry back to Cancun and travel south to Playa del Carmen. Use these three days to enjoy the best of this lively beach town: shop along 5th Avenue, visit local beach clubs, and consider a day trip to Cozumel for snorkeling or diving.

Playa also has great restaurants and nightlife, perfect for those who like a balance between relaxation and fun.

Day 5–7: Head further south to Tulum for the last part of your trip. Visit the iconic Tulum Ruins, swim in the nearby cenotes, and spend time on Tulum Beach, known for its turquoise waters and stylish boutique hotels.

You can also check out Tulum’s famous restaurants and beach clubs for a memorable final evening.

On your final morning (Day 7), make your way back toward Cancun Airport, the drive from Tulum takes roughly 1.5–2 hours. so plan your departure accordingly.

Whether you’re traveling for a week or longer, this condensed version of the Riviera Maya itinerary gives you a taste of everything that makes the region so special: beaches, history, culture, and unforgettable scenery.

Optional: 14 Day Riviera Maya Itinerary

If you’re spending two weeks in the Riviera Maya, you’ll have the time to explore everything this stunning coastline has to offer, beaches, ruins, cenotes, and colorful small towns.

Here’s how to make the most of your 14 days in Mexico’s Caribbean paradise.

Day 1–2: Arrive at Cancun International Airport and spend your first two nights in Cancun’s Hotel Zone.

Relax on the beach, take a walk along Kukulkan Boulevard, and enjoy a few drinks with ocean views before hitting the road.

Day 3–5: Head south to Playa del Carmen, one of the most central spots in the Riviera Maya.

Explore 5th Avenue, visit local beach clubs, and take a day trip to Cozumel for snorkeling or diving. Playa’s nightlife and food scene make it a great place to recharge between beach days.

Day 6–7: Hop on the ferry to Cozumel and stay a couple of nights. The island is famous for its coral reefs and laid-back atmosphere.

Rent a jeep to drive around, stop at hidden beaches, or relax at one of the island’s many beach bars.

Day 8: Travel inland to Valladolid, a colorful colonial town that’s perfect for a change of pace. Visit cenotes like Suytun or Oxman, stroll the main square, and try local Yucatecan food.

Day 9: Visit Chichen Itza early in the morning before the crowds arrive, it’s one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and a must-see during your trip. Afterward, continue south toward Tulum.

Day 10–12: Spend three days in Tulum exploring its mix of beach life, culture, and nature. Visit the Tulum Ruins, swim in nearby cenotes, and relax on Tulum Beach.

In the evening, enjoy dinner at one of the town’s best restaurants or dance the night away at a Tulum beach club.

Day 13–14: For your final stop, choose between Puerto Morelos or Isla Mujeres. Puerto Morelos offers peace and quiet, perfect for relaxing by the sea, while Isla Mujeres brings island energy with Playa Norte, snorkeling, and sunset cocktails.

Both destinations are conveniently close to Cancun Airport, so whichever you choose, getting back for your flight will be quick and easy.

This 14-day Riviera Maya itinerary offers the best of everything: relaxation, adventure, and plenty of stunning scenery.

By the time you fly home, you’ll have seen the Riviera Maya from every angle, coast, jungle, city, and island.

How to Get Around Riviera Maya

Getting around the Riviera Maya is fairly easy, with several transportation options depending on your budget and comfort level.

Here’s a breakdown of the best ways to travel between towns like Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Tulum, and beyond.

ADO Bus: The most popular and budget-friendly option for getting around. ADO buses connect all major destinations in the Riviera Maya, including Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Tulum, and even Valladolid.

They’re air-conditioned, safe, reliable, and easy to use, even if it’s your first time visiting Mexico.

Mayan Train: The Rivieria Maya’s new train system is a major railway connecting Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Tulum, Bacalar, Merida, and more across the Yucatan Peninsula.

It’s designed for both tourists and locals, offering a safe, comfortable, and scenic way to travel between top destinations and hidden towns, much faster and easier than the region’s buses or car rides.

Colectivo: The cheapest (but least comfortable) option for short distances. Colectivos are shared minivans that run along Highway 307 between Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum.

They’re very affordable, usually costing just a few dollars per ride. However, space can be tight, and they don’t have fixed schedules.

Private Transfer: The most convenient, yet most expensive, way to travel. If you prefer door-to-door service, booking a private transfer is ideal, especially when arriving from Cancun International Airport or traveling with luggage.

Many companies offer pre-booked transfers with air conditioning and bilingual drivers.

Taxi: Taxis are widely available but can be pricey for longer distances. Expect to pay around $40–50 USD (700–850 pesos) for rides between major towns. Always agree on the price before getting in, as meters aren’t commonly used.

Rental Car: If you plan to explore multiple towns, cenotes, or off-the-beaten-path spots, renting a car is a great idea. Roads in the Riviera Maya are well-maintained and easy to navigate.

Just keep in mind that parking in busy areas like Tulum Beach or downtown Playa del Carmen can be limited, and gas prices are similar to the U.S.

Best Time to Visit Riviera Maya

The Riviera Maya enjoys warm, sunny weather year-round, making it a fantastic destination in any season.

That said, the region experiences two main climate patterns, and understanding them can help you plan your trip better and avoid unexpected crowds or tropical downpours.

Dry Season (November – April):

This is the best time to visit the Riviera Maya. Expect blue skies, warm sunshine, and comfortable humidity levels.

Average daytime temperatures sit around 26–30 °C (79–86 °F), and the Caribbean Sea is perfect for swimming.

This period is also high season for tourism, especially December through March, so book hotels and excursions in advance if traveling then.

Rainy Season (May – October):

From late spring through early fall, the Riviera Maya becomes hotter and more humid, with short but intense tropical showers.

Rain usually comes in bursts and rarely ruins the whole day. July to October overlaps with the Caribbean hurricane season, though direct hits are rare. The benefit? Fewer crowds, greener scenery, and lower hotel rates.

Shoulder Seasons (November & May):

These transition months are arguably the sweet spot to visit. You’ll enjoy great weather, fewer tourists, and cheaper accommodation and flight prices.

November kicks off the dry season, while May marks the end of it, both ideal for sightseeing and beach days without the peak-season crowds.

Riviera Maya Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors

If it’s your first time visiting the Riviera Maya, a bit of planning can make a huge difference in how smooth, and enjoyable, your trip will be.

From getting around to safety and money tips, here’s what every first-time visitor should know before arriving.

Use Pesos, Not U.S. Dollars

While many hotels and restaurants accept U.S. dollars, you’ll get a better exchange rate paying in Mexican pesos.

Withdraw pesos from ATMs once you arrive, ideally at reputable banks in Cancun, Playa del Carmen, or Tulum, instead of airport currency booths, which charge higher fees.

Don’t Drink the Tap Water

Stick to bottled or purified water for drinking and brushing your teeth. Most hotels provide filtered water, and refill stations are common throughout the Riviera Maya.

Plan for Heat and Sun

The Caribbean sun is intense, especially from March to September. Pack reef-safe sunscreen, a wide-brim hat, and light clothing. Hydration is key, carry water everywhere you go.

Transportation Is Easier Than You Think

Between ADO buses, taxis, and colectivos, getting around is simple once you understand the routes.

For more flexibility, rent a car, but be mindful of local driving rules and always use secure parking areas.

Watch Out for Common Scams in the Riviera Maya

Scams in the Riviera Maya can happen in any tourist area, but they’re easy to avoid if you stay alert.

Be cautious of overpriced taxis, fake tour operators, and timeshare offers that sound too good to be true.

Always confirm prices upfront, book tours through verified providers, and take photos of rentals before paying.

Respect Local Culture and Nature

The Riviera Maya is home to sacred Mayan heritage sites and delicate ecosystems like cenotes and coral reefs.

Follow all posted rules, don’t touch marine life, and dress modestly when visiting temples or small villages.

Book Excursions in Advance

Popular tours like Chichen Itza, cenote swims, and Isla Mujeres day trips can sell out quickly during high season. Reserve online or through your hotel for the best rates.

Final Thoughts on Planning Your Riviera Maya Itinerary

This 10-day Riviera Maya itinerary covers all the essentials, from the lively streets of Playa del Carmen and the ancient ruins near Valladolid to the laid-back beaches of Tulum and Isla Mujeres.

If it’s your first trip to the region, these stops will give you a perfect balance of adventure, culture, and relaxation.

Of course, there’s still more to see, smaller beach towns, local villages, and hidden cenotes are waiting for your next visit.

As you wrap up your Riviera Maya journey, don’t be surprised if you’re already planning your return.

The mix of turquoise waters, friendly locals, and endless sunshine has a way of pulling travelers back again and again.

Next time, consider heading a bit farther north to explore Mexico’s Yucatan region.

The city of Merida offers colonial charm and the best food scene in southern Mexico, while nearby coastal towns like Sisal and Progreso deliver quiet beaches and a more affordable, local vibe.

Wherever you go, one thing’s certain, you’ll leave the Riviera Maya already dreaming of coming back.