The Best 5 Day Tulum Itinerary for First-Time Visitors

Planning a trip to Tulum? This 5 day Tulum itinerary is designed to help you experience the best of this vibrant beach town — from its ancient Mayan ruins to its jungle-surrounded cenotes and unforgettable food scene. Over the years, Tulum has grown from a quiet backpacker escape into one of Mexico’s most talked-about destinations. But even with its popularity, there are still plenty of authentic and affordable ways to explore.

In this guide, you’ll find a carefully curated day itinerary for each of your five days — filled with local eats, hidden gems, and can’t-miss sights. Whether it’s your first time or a return trip, this is one of the few travel guides built around real experience and local recommendations.

Tulum offers the perfect mix of culture, nature, and beach relaxation. You’ll swim in cenotes tucked in the jungle, explore ancient ruins by the sea, and unwind at some of the best beach clubs on the Riviera Maya. Let’s dive in — Tulum is waiting.

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Where to Stay in Tulum

Tulum is split into two main areas: Tulum Pueblo (Town) and Tulum Playa (Beach) — and where you stay can seriously affect how much you spend.

The beach zone is popular for its boho-chic resorts, ocean views, and Instagrammable aesthetic. But that vibe comes at a cost: hotel rates often start around $300 per night, and food, drinks, and even taxis tend to be overpriced. You’ll also need to budget for beach club day passes if your hotel isn’t directly on the sand.

On the other hand, Tulum Pueblo offers a more local, laid-back atmosphere — and it’s far easier on your wallet. You’ll still find great restaurants, boutique hotels, and plenty of nightlife, but at a fraction of the cost. Staying in town can easily cut your accommodation budget in half (or more) compared to beachfront properties.

Best Places to Stay Near Tulum Beach

If you want to wake up just steps from the ocean, these hotels give you that dreamy beach vibe — but with a range of styles and price points:

• Hotel Poc Na Tulum (my top pick!) – One of the best values on the beach, with rustic-chic rooms right on the water and a low-key, unplugged atmosphere.
• Playa Selva – Eco-friendly bungalows with a strong connection to nature and easy access to the beach.

Travel Tip! If beachfront prices feel out of reach, consider staying in town and visiting beach clubs during the day. It’s a great way to enjoy the ocean without paying premium nightly rates.

Best All-Inclusive Resorts in Tulum

While Tulum isn’t known for mega all-inclusives like Cancun or Playa del Carmen, there are still a few solid options if you want that fully-covered experience.

• Hilton Tulum Riviera Maya All-Inclusive Resort – Budget-friendly pricing with great reviews but a little outside of Tulum.
• Secrets Tulum Resort & Beach Club – Adults-only luxury experience with everything you need.

Where to Stay in Tulum Pueblo

If you’re looking to save while still enjoying Tulum’s charm, Tulum Pueblo is the best place to start. You’ll be closer to authentic taco spots, walkable streets, and lower taxi fares — all while keeping your daily costs down.

• Prana Boutique Hotel (My Top Choice!) – A peaceful escape just a short walk from Tulum Pueblo, Prana Boutique Hotel blends jungle vibes with clean, minimalist design. 
• Kimpton Aluna Resort Tulum – Boho chic with a free cocktail hour daily.
• Maison Tulum – Charming and affordable, Maison Tulum feels more like a cozy guesthouse than a hotel.
• Pacha Tulum – This laid-back spot is ideal for budget-conscious travelers who still want style and comfort. 

How to Get to Tulum

Most travelers arrive via Cancun International Airport (CUN) or the new Tulum Airport (TQO) just outside of town. Cancun Airport still has an edge on prices, so if you don’t mind a 2-hour bus ride then this can be a great option to save you a bit of money.

Tips for Getting to Tulum

• There are no rideshare apps like Uber or Lyft in Tulum, so don’t rely on them when you land.
• Staying near the beach? Either pre-book a private transfer or plan to grab an overpriced taxi from the bus or train station — it’s too far to walk, especially with luggage.
• Most hotels in Tulum (especially beachfront ones) will happily arrange your transportation in advance if you ask.

Day 1: Welcome to Tulum

Welcome to Tulum! With some of the best beaches in Mexico, a thriving local and international food scene, and that laid-back boho vibe, this is the perfect place to slow down and explore.

Tulum isn’t the tiny beach town it was when I first visited — but that just means there’s even more to discover. After checking into your hotel, take a little time to walk or bike around and get your bearings.

If you’re feeling travel-weary, spend the afternoon relaxing. You can unwind by the pool or head straight to Tulum Beach for your first glimpse of that turquoise water.

For dinner, enjoy an authentic taste of Tulum with al pastor tacos at Antojitos La Chiapaneca. This no-frills, cash-only spot is a local favorite for good reason — the tacos are delicious, and the aguas frescas hit the spot. And at just $1.50 a taco, you chose a winner.

Cap off your first night with dessert at Churros La Lupita, where you’ll find some of the best fresh-made churros in town.

Day 2: Tulum Ruins + Beach Day

Start your morning with coffee and a light breakfast at one of Tulum’s standout cafés. Luzido Specialty Coffee is a great choice — they roast their own blends using high-quality Mexican-grown beans. You can sip a latte on-site or pick up a bag as a souvenir to take home.

If you’re craving something heartier, Ki’bok Coffee Tulum is a local favorite with a full breakfast menu. Think chilaquiles and American classics — all served in a cozy courtyard setting.

Once you’re fueled up, it’s time to explore the Tulum Ruins. This seaside archaeological site is one of the most iconic things to do in Tulum — and for good reason. The views are incredible, and the Myan ruins history is fascinating.

You have two options for getting there:

• Join a guided tour: These usually last a couple of hours and include transportation from Tulum town or the hotel zone. You’ll also get helpful context from a guide.
• Go on your own: Take a quick ride in a local colectivo shuttle or taxi. It’s cheaper, but you’ll want to read up on the site beforehand. That’s what I did, and it worked great!

>> Want to join a guided tour of the Tulum Ruins? Try this one!

Afternoon Beach Clubs

In the afternoon, head to Tulum Beach if you didn’t make it there yesterday. Playa Las Palmas is especially beautiful and a little less crowded than the more commercialized areas.

If you’d rather relax in comfort, consider grabbing a day pass to one of the local beach clubs. Most offer lounge chairs, food, and drinks — making it the perfect place to unwind for the rest of the day. Or, snag a resort pass for a day at one of the all-inclusives in the area.

Best Tulum Beach Clubs:

• Tantra Beach Club – Higher-end, boho club with live music and mixed drinks.
• Taboo Beach Club – Mediterranean restaurant with relaxing beach club vibes.
• Ziggy’s Beach Club – Numerous sun beds on the beach with daily events and specials.

You can grab dinner right at the beach club or stick around for sunset drinks with your toes in the sand.

Day 3 – Cenotes & Food Tour

After a relaxing afternoon yesterday, it’s time to dive into some of the best experiences Tulum has to offer. Start your day with a swim in one of the region’s famous cenotes — natural sinkholes filled with fresh, crystal-clear water.

Cenotes are one of the most unique parts of visiting Tulum. They’re not only stunning to see but also a great way to cool off. Just remember: sunscreen isn’t allowed when swimming in cenotes due to the fragile ecosystem. It’s best to rinse off beforehand and keep your skincare minimal for this part of the day.

If you want a stress-free way to see a few cenotes, join a guided tour that includes popular spots like Cenote Azul. Most cenote tours include transportation, lunch, and visits to multiple cenotes in one day — ideal if you want everything handled for you.

Prefer a slower (and more budget-friendly) approach? You can easily visit cenotes near Tulum on your own. Gran Cenote, Cenote Cristal, and Cenote Zacil-Ha are all great options that are bikeable or scooter-friendly from town. Each offers a different vibe — from deep swimming holes to sun-drenched pools perfect for floating.

Most of the nearby cenotes have shops offering drinks and small bites. Some even have local vendors selling tacos and other street foods right outside. All of them also have bathroom facilities. Just be sure to bring cash if you choose to visit on your own as many don’t take credit card.

evening Food Tour in Tulum

In the evening, join an Eating with Carmen food tour. I’ve done their tours in several Mexican cities — including Tulum — and they never disappoint.

>> This is my favorite food tour in Tulum! (And I’ve done them all.)

The 5:00 PM “Local Experience” tour is especially great if you’re curious about Mayan and Yucatecan dishes. You’ll sample classics like cochinita pibil, tamales, and handmade tortillas while learning about the food culture from a local perspective.

Day 4: Day Trip to Chichen Itza, Sian Ka’an and More

After a few days exploring Tulum, you’ve only scratched the surface of what this region has to offer. Today’s all about choosing your own adventure — whether that means diving deeper into Mayan history, exploring protected ecosystems, or relaxing on the Caribbean Sea.

Evening in Tulum

Tulum is packed with amazing dinner options, and tonight is the perfect time to enjoy something a bit more upscale.

Start with dinner at Encanto Cantina, a vibrant Mexican restaurant tucked away in Tulum Pueblo. The ambiance is just as good as the food — don’t miss their ceviche or the octopus tacos, both house favorites.

For something closer to the beach, head to Mamazul Tulum Mezcaleria. It’s a great pick for travelers who want elevated cuisine and a deep dive into Mexico’s famous smoky spirit. Their mezcal collection is extensive, and the staff is happy to guide you through a tasting.

After dinner, wind down with a nightcap at La Guarida, a cozy bar known for live music and craft cocktails.

Day 5 – Tulum Pueblo + Last-Minute Exploring

Spend your final morning in Tulum soaking in the slower pace that makes this town so special.

If you’re into wellness, start the day with a yoga flow at Om Collective. Their 8:00 AM classes are donation-based, and like most yoga studios in Tulum, mats are included. It’s a peaceful way to ground yourself before a day of travel.

Prefer to skip the mat? Take a quiet morning walk along Tulum Beach instead. The early hours are perfect for catching sunrise, enjoying the calm waters, and saying goodbye to the Caribbean.

Afterward, grab breakfast in town. DelCielo offers eggs, smoothies, and fresh pastries in a breezy café setting.

When it’s time to head out, getting back to the airport is relatively straightforward:

• If you’re flying from Tulum Airport, hop on the ADO bus from the main station in Pueblo (around $13 USD one-way).
• If you’re heading to Cancun Airport, you can take the ADO bus there too — just budget 2–3 hours for travel time.
• The Tren Maya now connects Tulum to Cancun Airport as well, but it only runs once daily. If you want to take the train, make sure your flight time aligns — otherwise, plan to stay near the station or stick with the bus.

How to Get Around Tulum

Getting around Tulum is part of the experience — and your choice of transportation can seriously impact how easy (and affordable) your trip feels. Here’s what you need to know:

Biking Around Tulum (Best Option)

Tulum is a bike-friendly town, and biking is hands-down the best way to get around — especially if you’re staying in Pueblo and heading to the beach or ruins. You’ll find bike rental shops all over town, with daily rates typically around $8–$12 USD.

It’s affordable, flexible, and the most fun way to explore. Most hotels even offer bikes for guests, so check before you rent!

Just keep in mind:

• The ride from town to the beach can take 20–30 minutes
• Some stretches don’t have bike lanes so stay alert
• Bring a headlamp or bike light if riding after dark — the roads are not well-lit

Taxis in Tulum

Taxis in Tulum are notoriously overpriced, especially for tourists. There’s no Uber or Lyft, and prices are typically fixed (not metered), so negotiating doesn’t really work. Short rides can cost $15–25 USD, even for just a few minutes.

If you’re staying on the beach and planning to go into town often, these fares can add up quickly. That’s one more reason why bikes make more sense.

Travel Tip! If you have to take a taxi, ask your hotel to help arrange one or confirm the price in advance so there are no surprises.

Colectivos (Local Shuttle Vans)

Colectivos are shared local shuttle vans that run up and down the main highway between Tulum, Playa del Carmen, and Bacalar. They’re used by locals and are a super affordable option if you know how they work.

Here’s what to know:

• They don’t have fixed schedules but come frequently
• You’ll flag them down roadside and tell the driver where you’re headed
• Fares are usually just a few dollars, paid in pesos and cash only

More Tulum Travel Tips + Inspiration

• My go-to guide for keeping your Tulum trip affordable without sacrificing any of the experience.
• Everything you need (and what you don’t) for cenote swims, beach days, and jungle adventures.
• A head-to-head comparison to help you choose between Playa del Carmen and Tulum.