Photo courtesy of SL_Photography/iStock
Photo courtesy of Kristin Busse

Tulum

Type: Historic Sites

10Best Says

Another popular Mayan ruin site, Tulum is located a bit closer to Cancun than Chichen Itza, roughly 2 hours south. This is a smaller site and can be seen in about an hour but it's worth the trip simply for the breathtaking views. The Mayans knew good real estate when they saw it and the main pyramid of Tulum sits on a cliff above an amazing beach. Once a major port for the Mayan empire, the ruins site is the main attraction of the growing town. Tulum also boasts a downtown area (Tulum pueblo) and a bohemian "hotel zone" with relaxed cabana and boutique hotels and open-air eateries.

Address:

82 Miles South of Cancun
Tulum,

Phone:

984 802 5405

Website:

facebook.com

EXPERT TIPS BY: Kristin Busse
Cancún Local Expert

Best Attractions & Activities, Playa del Carmen's Best Attractions & Activities, Outdoor Activities, Parks: "You can either book a tour to see only the ruins of Tulum or you can combine it with a visit to Xel-Ha eco-park to make the most of your sightseeing excursion."

Recommended as Best Attractions & Activities Because: Tulum is an ancient Mayan ruin site perched on a spectacular cliff overlooking a dreamy beach and turquoise blue water.
Best for Playa del Carmen's Best Attractions & Activities Because: If you go it alone, arrive early to beat the tour buses.
Best for Outdoor Activities Because: Tulum is one of the most beautiful Mayan ruin sites in the area.
Best for Parks Because: Tulum is close to Cancun and is the only Mayan ruins site located seaside.