The Jewel of the Mexican Caribbean
A place where azure waters meet white sandy beaches, and ancient Mayan culture meets vibrant nightlife.
Cancún, located on the stunning Yucatán Peninsula in Mexico, is synonymous with unforgettable vacation experiences. With its luxurious resorts, world-class restaurants, and a variety of activities, it is a dream destination that should not be missing from any bucket list.
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Arrival
How to get to Cancún
Cancún International Airport (CUN) is one of the largest airports in Latin America, served by numerous international airlines. Direct flights from Frankfurt are offered by Condor, with a flight time of around 11 to 13 hours. Airlines like Lufthansa, TAP, Air Canada, and British Airways offer flights to Cancún with one or more stops.
At a Glance
General
Location: Yucatán Peninsula, Mexico
Characteristic: Dreamy sandy beaches, clear turquoise water, proximity to Mayan ruins
Climate & Best travel times
Temperature: 25 -30°C
Rainy days per month: 5-15
Best travel period: December – April
Getting there
Flight time from Frankfurt: 11 hours
Flight time from New York: 3 hours (mostly with 1 stop in Europe)
Local transportation: Buses, taxis, rental cars
Sightseeing
Chichén Itzá (Mayan Ruins)
Isla Mujeres (Island Paradise)
Underwater Museum MUSA
Practical information
Currency: Mexican Peso (MXN)
Language: Spanish
Payment Options: Cash, credit cards
Entry requirements: Passport required – No visa required for tourist stays of up to 180 days
More about entry & visa
Cancún
Where luxury meets nature
Cancún is divided into two main areas: the Hotel Zone (Zona Hotelera) and Downtown (El Centro). The Hotel Zone is a long, narrow island surrounded by the Nichupté Lagoon and the Caribbean Sea. Here, you will find most resorts, beaches, and nightlife. Downtown offers an authentic Mexican experience with local restaurants, markets, and shops.
The Beaches: Caribbean dreams and azure seas
Cancún and the surrounding Riviera Maya are a true paradise for beach lovers. With their fine white sand, turquoise waters, and vibrant atmosphere, they attract countless visitors year after year. While Cancún itself entices with its expansive hotel beaches and public beaches like Playa Delfines, Playa del Carmen, about an hour south, has its own unique charm. This former fishing village has become a popular vacation spot. The beaches here are a bit quieter and more relaxed than in Cancún, making them particularly popular with independent travelers and families. The famous pedestrian street in Playa del Carmen, Quinta Avenida, runs parallel to the beach and offers a wide range of restaurants, bars, shops, and entertainment options.
Underwater World: Exotic colors and crystal clear water
The underwater world off Cancún is a true paradise for divers and snorkelers. The Mesoamerican Reef, the second-largest coral reef in the world, stretches along the coast and is home to an incredible variety of marine life. Watersports enthusiasts can snorkel or scuba dive here, exploring the unique underwater museum, MUSA, which showcases over 500 sculptures submerged underwater. The museum is not only an art gallery but also an artificial reef that creates new habitats for marine life. For those who prefer freshwater, there are numerous cenotes around Cancún. These natural freshwater sources are holes into an underground world and are great for diving and snorkeling. However, note that the water is often much cooler than the sea, as it is groundwater. A crucial warning for adventurous divers: cenotes can be connected to larger cave systems. If you are unfamiliar or do not have a local guide, it is essential to avoid exploring the often submerged tunnels. Many divers have gotten lost and never returned.
Mayan Ruins of Yucatán: A Journey into the Past
Dive into the fascinating world of the Mayans and experience the impressive remains of one of humanity’s greatest ancient civilizations. Just a stone’s throw from Cancún’s paradise beaches, you will find majestic pyramids, mysterious temples, and ancient cities that tell the story of a long-gone time. Chichén Itzá is one of the largest and best-preserved Mayan sites. Here, you can admire the famous Kukulcán pyramid, which is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, as well as intricate reliefs and sculptures. Tulum impresses with its unique location. The Mayan fortress perched on a cliff offers a breathtaking view of the turquoise sea and white sandy beaches. Explore the well-preserved temples and let the magic of this special place captivate you. Cobá offers an adventurous journey through the dense jungle. Discover hidden pyramids and ancient Mayan paths. Climb the Nohoch Mul, the highest pyramid on the Yucatán Peninsula, and enjoy the panoramic view over the lush landscape.
The Nightlife: The world after sunset
Cancún is not only known for its breathtaking beaches but also for its vibrant nightlife, which is among the best in the world. The city transforms after sunset into a giant playground for partygoers. Coco Bongo is a must-visit for anyone in Cancún. This legendary venue is more than just a nightclub – it’s a spectacular show that combines elements of circus, theater, and disco. Here, you’ll experience incredible performances, acrobats, live music, and an unparalleled atmosphere. Mandala is famous for its stylish décor, open front, and energetic ambiance. Top DJs perform here, ensuring unforgettable party nights. As one of the largest nightclubs in Latin America, The City can accommodate thousands of party guests. International top DJs regularly perform here, creating an exuberant atmosphere. For a more relaxed vibe, Cancún’s numerous beach clubs offer the perfect alternative. You can enjoy the night with chilled music, refreshing drinks, and the sound of the waves. If you want to experience authentic Mexican nightlife, head to downtown Cancún. Here, there are numerous bars and cantinas where locals and tourists party together.
Cuisine: What you really need to try
Cancún’s culinary scene is a fascinating blend of traditional Mexican flavors, modern culinary innovations, and international influences.
• Tacos are the heart of Mexican cuisine and come in countless variations in Cancún. From classic Tacos al Pastor (marinated pork) to Tacos de Pescado (fish tacos) and vegetarian options, there’s something for every taste. Local taquerías in downtown Cancún are particularly recommended for authentic tacos at great prices.
•Ceviche: Cancún, located right on the Caribbean Sea, is a paradise for seafood lovers. Ceviche, a dish made from fresh fish or seafood marinated in lime juice, is especially popular. Its fresh preparation and combination of tangy and spicy flavors make ceviche a refreshing treat, especially on hot days.
• Guacamole, a dip made from avocados, onions, tomatoes, cilantro, and lime juice, is a staple of Mexican cuisine. In Cancún, guacamole is often made fresh and served with many dishes. A must-try for every visitor.
•Cochinita Pibil:This traditional dish from the Yucatán Peninsula consists of slow-cooked pork that is marinated in achiote paste and wrapped in banana leaves. The result is tender, flavorful meat often served with pickled red onions and tortillas.
Culture: More than beautiful nature
Although Cancún is primarily known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife, behind the tourist facade lies a rich cultural diversity waiting to be explored. Its proximity to the impressive Mayan ruins of Chichén Itzá, Tulum, and Cobá makes Cancún an ideal starting point for diving into the fascinating world of this ancient civilization. The archaeological sites, which are witnesses to a highly developed culture, offer a deep insight into the history and heritage of the Maya.
The perfect match:
Cancún All Inclusive
11 days in a 4-star hotel
round-trip non-stop flight
all-inclusive board
Mexican Riviera
7 nights from/to Long Beach
Inside cabin
Incl. full board
Catamaran Trip
8-10 hours
incl. open bar & lunch
incl. snorkeling
Conclusion: Who is Cancún the perfect destination for?
Cancún is the perfect destination for anyone looking for an unforgettable vacation in the Caribbean. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing beach holiday, an adventure in nature, or a cultural discovery, you’ll definitely find what you’re looking for in Cancún.