How to get from Tulum to Cancun
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!
What are the 4 ways to travel from Tulum to Cancun?
There are 4 ways to travel the 131 kilometre (81 miles) distance from Tulum to Cancun. You can choose between the bus, shared minivan, private transport and colectivo. The journey takes 1 hour 35 minutes to 4 hours 10 minutes and the quickest way is by private transport. If you're on a budget, the cheapest option is by colectivo with tickets starting at 95 MXN ($5.30).
Where to stay in Cancun?
Still looking for accommodation? Don't forget to check out our favourite places to stay in Cancun at the bottom of this page.
Tulum to Cancun by Bus
The bus is a good mix of convenience and affordability when travelling from Tulum to Cancun. Travel time is about 2 hours 35 minutes to 4 hours 10 minutes. Prices start from 590 MXN ($33).
You can choose from four buses operating on this route: ADO, ADO Aeropuerto, AU (Autobuses Unidos) and ADO Primera.
Step 1: How to get to Tulum Bus Station
ADO Tulum Bus Station (Terminal Autobuses Tulum ADO) is located in the centre of town. This makes it easily accessible by foot, or by taxi if you’re staying slightly further away or in one of the beach areas.
A good average rate for a ride from the beach areas to the bus terminal is around 300 MXN ($16.70). Keep in mind that taxis in Tulum are not metered, and they’re known for their inflated rates. It’s best to agree on the rate before getting in.
Step 2: Bus from Tulum to Cancun
ADO and AU are the bus companies operating on this route. ADO offers a more comfortable ride with better seats and onboard toilets, while AU is the cheaper option with simpler buses and no restrooms. Check out our Mexico transport guide for a full comparison of their bus types and amenities.
A bus ticket from Tulum to Cancun costs 280 MXN ($15.70) and the journey takes around 2h 20m - 3h 45m.
You can buy your tickets at ADO Bus Station, but we recommend booking them online via BookAway at least a day before to secure a seat.
When booking, it’s important to pay attention to the departure and arrival points. Some Tulum buses depart from the archaeological site instead of the city centre where you may be located.
Day trip from Tulum to Cancun by Bus
Not a fan of big cities like Cancun? Although we don’t recommend cutting your visit so short, it’s possible. Taking the bus, you can travel round trip between Tulum and Cancun in just one day. Just note that unless you take the earliest morning trip, you can only spend around 6 hours in this vibrant city.
If you really must travel round-trip, we suggest that you at least spend a night in Cancun before going back to Tulum.
ADO Bus from Tulum to Cancun Airport
You can also get a direct bus from Tulum to Cancun International Airport with ADO.
Buses leave from Terminal Autobuses Tulum ADO. You can buy your ticket directly at the bus station or book it online through BookAway. Prices start at 460 MXN ($25.50).
Step 3: Cancun Bus Station to City Centre
Buses stop at ADO Cancun Bus Station, conveniently located in downtown Cancun, with many hotels and hostels located close by or just a few blocks away.
But if you are staying outside the city centre, or in Cancun’s Hotel Zone, you will have to take a taxi to reach your destination. Taxis are available from outside of the bus station and are metered, so rates will depend on the distance and time. An average ride to the beach area costs around 200 MXN ($11.20).
Another option is to use public transport. Buses pass in front of the bus terminal on Avenida Tulum and lines R-1 and R-2 connect the bus stop with the beach and hotel area. A bus ticket costs 13 MXN ($0.70), to be paid directly to the bus driver.
Tulum to Cancun by Colectivo
There used to be direct colectivo trips between Tulum and Cancun. But the last time we checked (November 2025), only indirect colectivo trips are available. You’ll have to make a transfer at Playa del Carmen.
Although the extra transfer can be a bit of a hassle, taking the indirect colectivo lets you travel more like a local — and it’s incredibly budget-friendly. Prices may go up during peak tourist season, but the combined ticket still costs around 95 MXN ($5.30), and can be paid directly to the driver.
If you prefer to have this indirect colectivo experience, read on for a step-by-step guide!
Step 1: Colectivo from Tulum to Playa del Carmen
You’ll find colectivos to Playa del Carmen at Tulum Colectivo Station in the city centre. Don’t mistake this for the colectivo station to Coba, which is also along the same highway, 1.5 km away.
Colectivo Foraneos is the sole operator for colectivos on the Tulum to Cancun route. A seat costs around 50 MXN ($2.80).
Step 2: Colectivo from Playa del Carmen to Cancun
When you arrive in Playa del Carmen, simply get off at the last stop at Playa del Carmen Colectivo Station. Here, you will find colectivos bound for Cancun, operated by the same company Colectivo Foraneos.
For more comfort, another company that runs on this route is Playa Express. They use Mercedes vans, which are larger and more comfortable than the classic colectivos. You’ll find them at Playa Express Terminal, just a short walk from Playa del Carmen Colectivo Station.
The ride to Cancun takes 1h - 1h 30m and costs around 45 MXN ($2.50). If you’re taking Playa Express, expect to pay a bit more at 55 MXN ($3.10).
The last stop is at Cancun Colectivo Station in the city centre, near ADO Bus Terminal. Unlike buses, you can get off before the last stop if your accommodation is on the way.
Tulum to Cancun by Shared Minivan
Shared minivans are a direct way to travel from Tulum to Cancun. They’re a bit pricier than the bus, but if your accommodation’s far from the bus terminal, it could save you some cash on taxis.
Travel time is around 2 hours 30 minutes to 3 hours 30 minutes and a ticket costs 405 MXN ($22.50).
Minivan schedule from Tulum to Cancun
Minivan from Tulum to Cancun Airport
Heading straight to Cancun Airport? Some minivans offer pickup at any hotel within Tulum’s Hotel Zone and drop passengers off at Cancun International Airport.
Minivan fares start from 550 MXN ($30.50) and travel time is about 3h 30m.
Keep in mind that this minivan service terminates at Cancun Airport. If you’re heading to Cancun’s Hotel Zone, you’ll need to take a taxi, with fares starting at 680 MXN ($38). Alternatively, you can take an ADO bus to the city centre for 110 MXN ($6), then hop on a second bus or grab a taxi to the beach and hotel area.
Tulum to Cancun by Private Transport
A private transfer from Tulum to Cancun is the easiest and most convenient transport option. The journey takes 1 hour 35 minutes to 2 hours 30 minutes, and you’ll be dropped off right at your accommodation — no need to worry about extra transfers.
Prices for private transfer start at 1,600 MXN ($90) for a 3-seater. Split it with your group, and it’s about 1,160 MXN ($65) each.
IMPORTANT: When booking your ride online, make sure you pick one that’s heading to either downtown Cancun or the Hotel Zone, wherever you’re staying. Fares for private cars from Tulum to Cancun Airport are cheaper and may look tempting, but keep in mind that the airport is still 20 minutes away from Cancun’s tourist area.
Private Transport options from Tulum to Cancun Airport
Cancun to Tulum Guide
Cancun has become one of the most popular holiday spots in Mexico. With its crystal-clear Caribbean waters and soft white-sand beaches, it’s the perfect place to unwind — whether you’re staying in a luxury resort or a simple beachfront hotel.
Sitting just north of the Riviera Maya, Cancun is packed with all-inclusive resorts, buzzing nightclubs, lively bars, and too many restaurants to choose from! If you could get a Cancun hotel by the beach, you’re in for an unforgettable stay.
This busy city is also the door to other popular sites in the Yucatan Peninsula, as well as the rest of Mexico. Cancun International Airport is well connected for both domestic and international flights. It is the closest airport to nearby popular destinations and also serves Playa del Carmen and Tulum, among a few other towns.
Best places to stay in Cancun
Sina Suites - Treating Yourself
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 per night
Viento Suites - Mid Range
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 per night
Yellow Capsule Hotel - Budget Friendly
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 per night
Estancia Tulbayab 36 - Budget Friendly
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 per night
Rounding it up
We hope this guide was helpful in planning how to get from Tulum to Cancun. If there's anything else you're wondering about, drop us a comment and we'll do our best to answer you within a few days.
PS: If you've recently travelled this route, share your experience with fellow travellers and help us improve this post. Thanks for helping out our travel community!
Frequently Asked Questions about Tulum to Cancun
What to expect when visiting Cancun?
Located north of Riviera Maya, Cancun is known for its all-inclusive resorts, nightclubs, bars and too many restaurants to choose from! If you could get a Cancun hotel by the beach, you’re already guaranteed a lovely visit.
This busy city is also the door to other popular sites in the Yucatan Peninsula, as well as the rest of Mexico due to Cancun International Airport, which is well connected for both domestic and international flights. It is the closest airport to nearby popular destinations and also serves Playa del Carmen and Tulum, among a few other towns.
Can you rent a car from Tulum to Cancun?
Prices start from 570 MXN ($32) for a 24-hour rental and 2,380 MXN ($135) if you want to rent for a week. For the cheapest rentals and most extensive selection, book one through Kayak or Skyscanner.
Make sure you have a valid driver’s license! We also recommend that you check out our tips for renting a car to help you save money.
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.
Faye is a writer and full-time mom. She loves planning trips to the beach, tasting new cuisines and discovering gems in the Philippines. But if she had to choose, London is her favourite place in the world and she can't wait to travel there again with her hubby and baby!
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.
