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Cancun is the Caribbean resort hub at the top of the Riviera Maya. Its hotel zone runs along a strip of white sand, and its airport is the region's main gateway. Cancun is 65 kilometres (40 miles) north of Playa del Carmen. The colectivo is the cheapest way to get from Playa del Carmen to Cancun at $2.60 (45 MXN). The bus costs more and takes about as long, and a private transfer is dearer again.
Distance from Playa Del Carmen to Cancun
Playa Del Carmen and Cancun are about 65 km (40 miles) apart, and the journey itself covers around 67 km by road. Depending on the option, the trip takes between 45m and 2h.
4 ways to travel from Playa Del Carmen to Cancun
There are four ways to travel from Playa del Carmen to Cancun. You can choose between the colectivo, bus, minivan, and private transport. The journey takes 45m–1h 30m and the quickest way is by minivan. If you're on a budget, the cheapest option is by colectivo with tickets starting at $2.60 (45 MXN).
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Our favourite places to stay in Cancun
Here are our favourite places to stay in Cancun for every budget.
Sina Suites
Resorts in Cancun can cost you a bomb! Sina Suites gives you that resort-style feel without the high prices. Ever wanted your own private marina in a hotel? No? Well now you probably do, and Sina Suites has one. It also has a large swimming pool set amongst gardens that overlook the lagoon.
Every day, enjoy a continental breakfast and delicious Mexican food in their poolside restaurant/bar that sits underneath a traditional thatched hut! You’ll also get more than just a room here, most suites also offer a kitchenette and balcony.
- Views overlooking Cancun lagoon
- Outdoor swimming pool
- Bar and restaurant
- Great location
Double rooms start from $80 (1,380 MXN) per night
Mid-RangeViento Suites
Viento Suites is an escape from the busy and hectic Cancun. Once you’re inside the walls of this hotel, chilling in the garden beside the swimming pool, you’ll forget about the outside world.
The location couldn’t be more perfect. It’s situated within Downtown Cancun, but also very close to the Hotel Zone and beaches. The rooms look like those found in a high-class hotel, but without the extortionate prices.
- Outdoor swimming pool
- BBQ facilities
- Great location
- Clean and spacious rooms
Double rooms between $40-$80 (690-1,380 MXN) per night
BudgetYellow Capsule Hotel
Looking for a unique sleeping experience? The Yellow Capsule Hotel will definitely give you that. Instead of traditional rooms, you sleep in a pod. You’ll feel like you’ve been transported to the future when you clamber into your bright and spacious pod.
The capsules are clean and include everything you need for a comfy stay, a mirror, outlets, a safe and storage space. When you’re done hanging around in your pod, you can chill at the hotel’s terrace and enjoy their free breakfast.
- Cool capsule sleeping experience
- Friendly and helpful staff
- Great location
- Delicious breakfast included
Double rooms between $15-$40 (260-690 MXN) per night
BudgetEstancia Tulbayab 36
If you’re looking for a more homely feel than a to hotel, then definitely stay at Estancia. The owners will instantly make you feel welcome and are always there to offer advice.
The homestay offers a very convenient location, close to the local markets and not too far from the ADO bus station. The rooms are clean and spacious, plus a steal for the price. If you fancy doing some cooking whilst in Cancun, you can make use of the communal kitchen.
- Great location
- Clean and spacious rooms
- Helpful and friendly hosts
- You’ll feel at home
Double rooms between $15-$40 (260-690 MXN) per night
ABOUT YOUR DESTINATION
Why Visit Cancun?
Cancun is a vibrant beach city overlooking the Caribbean Sea. With its crystal blue waters and snow-white sand, the city can be too touristy for some visitors. But its location on Mexico’s east coast makes it the perfect gateway to other destinations like Chichen Itza, Isla Mujeres and Holbox.
You’ll find most tourists in the Hotel Zone, which is full to the brim with all-inclusive resorts, restaurants and lively bars. Depending on what you’re looking for, Cancun can just be a short stopover or a holiday destination by itself. Whichever you decide, make sure to explore other nearby destinations for a more authentic Mexican experience!
Rounding it up
That's the full picture for getting from Playa Del Carmen to Cancun, roughly 65 kilometres (40 miles) apart. In all, there are 4 ways to make the trip. The cheapest fare is $2.60 (45 MXN). The quickest trip takes 45m.
Prices and timetables change, so it's worth a quick check before you travel. Have a question, or travelled this route recently? Ask the community below and we'll do our best to help.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the distance from Playa Del Carmen to Cancun?
The distance from Playa Del Carmen to Cancun is 65 kilometres (40 miles).
What is the fastest way to get from Playa Del Carmen to Cancun?
Journey times from Playa Del Carmen to Cancun overlap: colectivo 1.5h, bus 55m - 2h, shared minivan 45m - 1h 50m, private transport 45m - 1h 30m. Depending on the departure, no single option is always the fastest.
What is the cheapest way to get from Playa Del Carmen to Cancun?
The cheapest way to get from Playa Del Carmen to Cancun is by colectivo with ticket costs starting from 45 MXN.
Can you rent a car from Playa del Carmen to Cancun?
About the Authors
Founder & Trip Planning Expert
Based in Bali, Maarten's passion for travel is undeniable. In 2016, he decided to quit his job as a stock analyst and started doing what he always dreamed of: travelling through South East Asia and helping other people plan their trips. When he is not working on Gecko Routes, you'll find him surfing in the ocean or exploring the best gems of Indonesia.
Senior Travel Writer
Ela is a storyteller, content producer, solo traveller and a mermaid-in-training. When she's not in front of her laptop, you will find her barefoot and living her best tan on some island in the Philippines. Or exploring the depths of its seas as a budding freediver. An island girl at heart, she'll be happy anywhere there is sea, sand, sun and coffee.
Travel Writer
Selene is a writer who loves coffee, travel, and planning. After spending a decade in Manila, she left the city and her career in banking to embrace a more laid-back lifestyle. Now, she is discovering the beauty of slow-paced travel and finding joy in meaningful experiences.
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