How Much Does A Trip To Cancun Cost? This Calculator Will Tell You

 Disclaimer: This page may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase using one of those links, I may earn a commission at zero cost for you. You can read my disclaimer policy and privacy policy.

Understanding Cancun Costs: What You Need to Know

Before diving into specific prices, it’s important to understand that Cancun essentially operates as two cities with distinct price structures. Downtown Cancun (El Centro) is where locals live and work, offering authentic Mexican prices. The Hotel Zone (Zona Hotelera) caters primarily to international tourists, with prices that can be 200-300% higher than in other parts of the city.

If your budget is tight or you simply don’t want to splurge, you can stay downtown, take the bus to the beaches, eat breakfast at local markets and dinner at Hotel Zone restaurants, and enjoy some of the free things to do in Cancun, along with unmissable tours. This approach can cut your costs in Cancun by 40-60% without sacrificing the quality of your experience.

The key to managing Cancun prices is planning ahead and knowing where to spend and where to save. Let me walk you through every major expense category with real, current prices.

Remember: Cancun can fit any budget. The key is planning ahead, knowing where to splurge and where to save, and being flexible with your spending priorities!

Accommodation Costs

Budget Options ($20-50/night)

Finding affordable accommodations in Cancun is easier than many people think, especially if you’re willing to stay downtown. I’ve recommended these options to dozens of budget-conscious travelers who’ve all had positive experiences.

Hostels (dorm bed): 300-500 MXN ($15-25)
Budget hotels downtown: 600-1,000 MXN ($30-50)
Airbnb private room downtown: 400-900 MXN ($20-45)
Basic guesthouse: 500-800 MXN ($25-40)

Best areas: Downtown Cancun (El Centro), away from the Hotel Zone

Downtown Cancun is where I lived during my first seven years here, and it’s still my go-to recommendation for budget travelers. The neighborhood is safe, authentic, and well-connected by public transportation. You’ll be among locals, eating real Mexican food at local prices, and experiencing a side of Cancun most tourists never see. The R1 and R2 buses run every few minutes along the Boulevard Kukulkan, where the Hotel Zone beaches are located, making it easy to enjoy the best of both worlds.

Mid-Range Options ($80-180/night)

This is the sweet spot for most travelers—comfortable accommodations without breaking the bank. After years of hosting visitors, I’ve found that mid-range options in Cancun offer excellent value, especially during shoulder season.

3-star Hotel Zone hotels: 1,600-2,500 MXN ($80-125)
Mid-range all-inclusive: 2,000-3,500 MXN ($100-175) per person
Airbnb entire apartment: 1,800-3,000 MXN ($90-150)
Boutique hotels downtown: 1,400-2,800 MXN ($70-140)

Best areas: Southern Hotel Zone, Puerto Juarez

Mid-range accommodations have improved dramatically since I first arrived in Cancun. You’ll find modern amenities, comfortable rooms, and often beach access at prices that won’t devastate your budget. Many of these hotels offer better value than all-inclusive resorts if you’re planning to explore beyond the property.

Luxury Options ($250+/night)

Cancun’s luxury resort scene is world-class, and having attended numerous industry events at these properties, I can tell you they deliver exceptional experiences. However, the price gap between luxury and mid-range has widened considerably over the past five years.

4-5 star Hotel Zone resorts: 5,000-10,000+ MXN ($250-500+)
Luxury all-inclusive: 6,000-15,000+ MXN ($300-750+) per person
Beachfront villas: 8,000-20,000+ MXN ($400-1,000+)
Ultra-luxury resorts: 10,000-30,000+ MXN ($500-1,500+)

Best areas: Hotel Zone (especially km 14-20), Punta Cancun

The luxury resorts here rival anything you’ll find in Hawaii or the Caribbean. Private beaches, multiple gourmet restaurants, world-class spas, and impeccable service justify the premium prices for travelers seeking an indulgent escape.

You can check my comparison posts about Cancun vs Hawaii, Cancun vs Jamaica, Cancun Vs Punta Cana to have an idea.

Food and Drinks cost

Budget Eating ($10-20/day)

This is where my local knowledge really comes in handy. I still eat street tacos at least twice a week, and I can confidently say Cancun’s street food scene is both delicious and incredibly affordable.

Street tacos: 15-30 MXN ($0.75-1.50) per taco
Tortas (Mexican sandwiches): 40-80 MXN ($2-4)
Grocery store sandwich: 60-100 MXN ($3-5)
Local market meal: 80-150 MXN ($4-7.50)
Convenience store snacks: 20-60 MXN ($1-3)
Water (1.5L bottle): 15-25 MXN ($0.75-1.25)
Beer at corner store: 20-35 MXN ($1-1.75)

Pro tip: Eat where locals eat downtown. Look for “comida corrida” (daily menu) at lunch for 80-120 MXN, including soup, main, drink, and dessert. I eat comida corrida several times a month—it’s how working locals eat, and the food is authentic, filling, and remarkably cheap.

Read my post on Mercado 28 and the best food tours in Cancun

Mid-Range Eating ($30-60/day)

Most visitors fall into this category, mixing local spots with tourist-friendly restaurants. After 15 years of dining throughout Cancun, I’ve learned which places offer the best value in this range.

Casual restaurant meal: 200-400 MXN ($10-20)
Coffee shop breakfast: 120-200 MXN ($6-10)
Mid-range restaurant dinner: 300-600 MXN ($15-30)
Hotel Zone casual dining: 400-800 MXN ($20-40)
Cocktail at bar: 120-200 MXN ($6-10)
Beer at restaurant: 50-100 MXN ($2.50-5)
Fresh juice/smoothie: 60-100 MXN ($3-5)

Pro tip: Lunch is cheaper than dinner at most restaurants. Many places offer lunch specials that are 30-40% less than dinner prices for the exact same dishes. I take advantage of this constantly.

Check out my post on the best restaurants in Cancun, which includes a range of prices.

Luxury Dining ($80+/day)

Cancun’s fine dining scene has exploded during my time here, with celebrity chefs and upscale concepts opening regularly. The quality rivals major culinary destinations, with costs to match.

Fine dining appetizer: 200-400 MXN ($10-20)
Fine dining main course: 500-1,200 MXN ($25-60)
Upscale seafood dinner: 800-2,000 MXN ($40-100)
Premium cocktails: 200-400 MXN ($10-20)
Wine bottle (mid-range): 600-1,200 MXN ($30-60)
Tasting menu experience: 1,500-3,000+ MXN ($75-150+)

Top restaurants: Puerto Madero, Lorenzillo’s, Harry’s, Cenacolo, Porfirio’s, Elephanta, Thai

Transportation Costs

Public Transportation (Budget-Friendly)

The public bus system is one of Cancun’s best-kept secrets. I still use it regularly, even though I own a car. It’s reliable, safe, and incredibly cheap.

Local bus (R1/R2): 12-14 MXN ($0.60-0.70) per ride
ADO bus to Playa del Carmen: 90-150 MXN ($4.50-7.50)
ADO bus to Tulum: 180-250 MXN ($9-12.50)
Colectivo (shared van) to Playa: 50-70 MXN ($2.50-3.50)
Ferry to Isla Mujeres (round trip): 400-500 MXN ($20-25)

The R1 and R2 buses run the entire length of the Hotel Zone and into downtown every 5-10 minutes from 6 am to midnight for 16 MXN (about 1 USD). They’re air-conditioned, and locals and tourists use them equally. In 15 years, I’ve never had a safety issue.

The ADO bus Cancun will take you pretty much everywhere in the Yucatan Peninsula and all over Mexico.

Taxis & Rideshare

Taxis in Cancun don’t use meters, which frustrated me when I first arrived. Now I know the standard rates and negotiate when necessary.

Taxi within Hotel Zone: 100-300 MXN ($5-15)
Taxi Hotel Zone to Downtown: 250-400 MXN ($12-20)
Uber (where available): 80-200 MXN ($4-10) for short trips
Airport taxi to Hotel Zone: 800-1,000 MXN ($40-50)
Pre-booked shuttle (per person): 200-400 MXN ($10-20)
Private airport transfer (1-3 people): 700-1,200 MXN ($35-60)

Uber in Cancun can be a bit tricky, so I wrote a dedicated post to explain how it works. Basically, taxis are on Uber, but you cannot all an Uber from the Airport or from the Hotel Zone. You can call an Uber only from Cancun Downtown to anywhere, but not from areas near official taxi stands. It’s a pain, I know, but it is what it is.

Car Rental

I rent cars regularly, and the prices have remained the same in the past few years, especially if you get the insurance, which I do. While I used to rent a car directly with local companies, now I have learned the hard way that using a platform such as Discover Cars will give you extra protection with their full coverage, which basically covers anything left out by the car rental insurance.

You can read my Discover car review for additional information.

Here is an approximate breakdown of prices by car type.

Economy car: 600-1,200 MXN ($30-60) per day
SUV rental: 1,200-2,000 MXN ($60-100) per day
Gas (full tank): 800-1,000 MXN ($40-50)
Insurance (mandatory): 400-800 MXN ($20-40) per day
Toll roads Cancun-Tulum: 150 MXN ($7.50) each way

Pro tip: Book car rentals in advance online for better rates. Factor in mandatory insurance costs, this is where many travelers get surprised at the rental counter. Mexican law requires liability insurance, and most foreign insurance policies don’t cover you here.

Activities and Tours Cost

Free & Low-Cost Activities

One of my favorite things about Cancun is how much you can enjoy without spending a peso. The public beaches are just as beautiful as the resort beaches, and there’s plenty to explore.

Beach day (public beaches): FREE
Playa Delfines: FREE
El Rey Ruins: 80 MXN ($4)
Museo Maya: 90 MXN ($4.50) (read about all the museums in Cancun)
Parque Las Palapas: FREE
Mercado 28 browsing: FREE
Self-guided downtown walk: FREE
Sunset watching: FREE (Read my post on where to watch the sunset in Cancun)

Mid-Range Activities ($30-100)

These activities offer excellent value and are what most visitors book. I’ve done many of these tours myself and with visiting friends and family. (click on the link to check availability, price and more info on the tour)

Snorkeling tour (half-day): 600-1,200 MXN ($30-60)
Isla Mujeres catamaran tour day trip: 1000-1,400 MXN ($40-70)
Cenote visit (entrance): 100-350 MXN ($5-15) [ Read my Cenote near Cancun Guide for more detailed info ]
Parasailing: 1,000-1,500 MXN ($50-75)
Jet ski rental (30 min): 1,000-1,500 MXN ($50-75)
Exclusive Catamaran cruise: 1,200-2,300 MXN ($60-100)
Jungle speedboat tour: 1,200-2,000 MXN ($60-100)

Premium Activities ($100-200)

These are the signature experiences that make Cancun special. While they’re pricier, they’re often worth the investment for creating unforgettable memories.

Keep in mind that the following suggested tours may look very cheap on VIATOR, but you need to include the entrance fee and other additional costs that are not included in the price. It’s very important to read the section “what’s included” and “what’s not included”, which applies to every booking platform.

Chichen Itza tour: 1,600-2,400 MXN ($80-120)
Tulum + cenote tour: 1,800-2,600 MXN ($90-130)
Scuba diving (2 tanks): 2,500-3,500 MXN ($130-200)
Xcaret Park: 2,200-3,000 MXN ($110-150)
Xel-Ha Park: 2,000-2,800 MXN ($100-140)
ATV + zipline + cenote: 2,000-2,800 MXN ($100-140)
Private snorkeling tour: 2,400-4,000 MXN ($120-200)

Luxury Experiences ($200+)

For special occasions or once-in-a-lifetime experiences, these premium activities deliver extraordinary memories.

Swimming with whale sharks: 3,000-4,500 MXN ($150-225)
Private yacht charter (half-day): 8,000-16,000 MXN ($400-800)
Helicopter tour: 6,000-12,000 MXN ($300-600)
Spa day at luxury resort: 3,000-6,000 MXN ($150-300)
Private Chichen Itza tour: 5000-8,000 MXN ($200-400)
Fishing charter (full day): 8,000-16,000 MXN ($400-800)

Nightlife Costs

Budget Nightlife

Downtown Cancun’s nightlife scene is where locals party, and it’s significantly cheaper than the Hotel Zone clubs. I still enjoy nights out downtown—the atmosphere is more authentic, and the prices are far more reasonable. You can read my full article on Cancun Nightlife to learn more.

Happy hour beers downtown: 30-50 MXN ($1.50-2.50)
Local bar cover: 0-100 MXN ($0-5)
Street drinks (michelada): 60-100 MXN ($3-5)
Downtown club entry: 100-200 MXN ($5-10)
Beers at Hotel Zone bar: 80-150 MXN ($4-7.50)

Mid-Range Nightlife

This is where most tourists experience Cancun’s famous party scene. Open bar packages are popular because they offer predictable costs for a night out.

Nightclub with open bar: 1,200-1,800 MXN ($60-90)
Coco Bongo ticket: 1,600-2,000 MXN ($80-100)
Premium club cover: 400-800 MXN ($20-40)
Cocktails at club: 180-300 MXN ($9-15)
Bottle service (basic): 2,000-4,000 MXN ($100-200)

Luxury Nightlife

The high-end club experience in Cancun rivals Ibiza or Miami. If you’re celebrating something special, these venues deliver unforgettable nights.

VIP club entry + drinks: 2,000-3,000 MXN ($100-150)
Premium bottle service: 4,000-10,000+ MXN ($200-500+)
Private table reservation: 3,000-6,000 MXN ($150-300)

Where to Find the Cheapest Cancun All Inclusive Packages

The key to finding the best all-inclusive packages to Cancun is timing, flexibility, and knowing where to look.

Best Booking Platforms for Cancun All-Inclusive Packages with Flight

Expedia consistently offers competitive rates on Cancun all-inclusive packages with flight included. Their package deals often save 10-20% compared to booking hotels and flights separately. I recommend checking their “Deals” section regularly—they frequently run flash sales on Mexican resort packages.

Booking.com is my go-to platform for hotel-only rates, because I have Level 3 genius status that I gained after so many bookings, and I can now enjoy amazing discounts.

Direct Resort Websites sometimes offer exclusive perks even if their base prices aren’t the lowest. Many resorts provide free airport transfers, resort credits, or room upgrades when you book directly during promotional periods.

Tips for Finding the Cheapest Cancun All-Inclusive Packages

Based on my 15 years of watching Cancun tourism patterns, here’s how to maximize value:

Book 3-6 months in advance for peak season (December-April) to secure the best rates. I’ve seen prices double for last-minute bookings during spring break.

Travel during shoulder season (May, early June, November) for the most dramatic savings. The cheapest Cancun all-inclusive packages typically appear during these months, sometimes 40-50% off peak-season rates. The weather is still excellent, and you’ll avoid crowds.

Be flexible with travel dates. Departing on a Tuesday or Wednesday rather than Friday can save $100-200 per person on flights alone. All-inclusive package prices also fluctuate by day of the week.

Compare package deals versus booking separately. Sometimes, Cancun all-inclusive packages with flight included aren’t cheaper than booking independently, especially if you have airline points or credit card rewards. Run the numbers both ways.

Sign up for price alerts on major booking sites. I use these myself and have snagged deals when resorts drop prices suddenly to fill rooms.

Consider adults-only resorts if traveling as a couple. They’re often cheaper than family resorts and provide a more relaxed atmosphere.

How Much Is a Trip to Cancun for 5 Days?

This is the most common question I hear, and the answer depends heavily on your accommodation choice and travel style. Here’s what a 5-day trip typically costs:

Budget 5-Day Trip: $600-700 per person (hostel/budget hotel, street food, public transportation, free beaches, 1-2 budget tours)

Mid-Range 5-Day Trip: $1,200-1,600 per person (3-star hotel or basic all-inclusive, mix of local and tourist restaurants, some tours and activities, occasional taxi use)

Luxury 5-Day Trip: $3,000-10,000+ per person (4-5 star resort or premium all-inclusive, fine dining, private transportation, premium tours, spa treatments)

These ranges don’t include flights, which typically add $300-800 per person from the US, depending on your departure city and booking timing.

Sample Daily Budget

Backpacker Budget: $70-100/DAY

Accommodation: $25 (hostel dorm)
Food: $15 (street food, groceries)
Transport: $3 (local buses)
Activities: $5 (free beaches, one budget attraction)
Misc: $5 (water, snacks)
TOTAL: ~$53/day

How to do it:

• Stay in hostels downtown
• Eat street tacos and cook some meals
• Use only public buses
• Focus on free beaches and low-cost attractions
• Limit drinking to corner store beers
• Do free walking tours

I’ve met backpackers who’ve stretched this budget for entire months in Cancun. It’s completely doable if you’re willing to live more like a local than a tourist.

Mid-range Budget: $150-250/DAY

Accommodation: $100 (mid-range hotel or Airbnb)
Food: $50 (mix of local and tourist restaurants)
Transport: $20 (taxis, some tours include transport)
Activities: $60 (one major tour or attraction)
Nightlife: $20 (drinks, casual bar)
Misc: $10 (tips, snacks, souvenirs)
TOTAL: ~$160/day

How to do it:

• Stay in 3-star hotels or nice Airbnb
• Eat breakfast at the hotel, lunch local, dinner mid-range
• Mix buses and taxis
• Do 3-4 paid tours per week
• Enjoy nightlife but not clubbing every night
• Shop at local markets

This is the sweet spot for most travelers—comfortable without overspending. You’ll enjoy high-quality experiences while staying within a reasonable budget.

Luxury Budget: $350+/DAY

Accommodation: $200+ (4-5 star resort or all-inclusive)
Food: $80+ (fine dining, resort restaurants)
Transport: $40 (private transfers, car rental)
Activities: $100+ (premium tours, spa treatments)
Nightlife: $50+ (nice bars, clubs, bottle service)
Misc: $30 (tips, shopping, extras)
TOTAL: ~$500+/day

All-Inclusive Alternative: $250-400/day
Note: All-inclusive resorts include most food, drinks, and some activities

How to do it:

• Stay in luxury resorts
• Dine at upscale restaurants
• Private transportation
• Premium tours and activities
• VIP club experiences
• Spa treatments
• Shopping and souvenirs

Cancun Trip Budget Calculator

Please keep in mind that this is just a simple tool based on a fixed code. He doesn’t have all the available options. I would recommend using it to get a general idea, but then you can browse for more options.

Money Saving Tips

Accommodation Hacks

✓ Book 3+ months in advance for best rates
✓ Stay downtown and bus to beaches (save 50%+)
✓ Visit during shoulder season (May, November)
✓ Look for all-inclusive deals (can be cheaper than paying separately)
✓ Use hotel points or credit card rewards
✓ Stay Sunday-Thursday for better rates

Food Savings

✓ Eat your big meal at lunch (cheaper than dinner)
✓ Look for “comida corrida” daily specials
✓ Buy snacks and drinks at supermarkets, not convenience stores
✓ Eat where you see locals eating
✓ Bring a reusable water bottle (many hotels have filtered water)
✓ Take advantage of the all-inclusive breakfast if included
✓ Avoid eating/drinking in the Hotel Zone when possible

After 15 years, I still follow most of these tips. Even locals shop at Walmart or Chedraui for drinks and snacks rather than paying tourist prices.

Transportation Savings

✓ Master the local bus system (R1/R2)
✓ Book airport transfers in advance (cheaper than airport taxis)
✓ Use colectivos instead of taxis for longer distances
✓ Walk when possible in Hotel Zone
✓ Share taxis with other travelers
✓ Book car rentals online in advance
✓ Fill up gas outside tourist areas

Activity Savings

✓ Book tours online in advance (often cheaper)
✓ Visit free attractions (beaches, El Rey, Parque Las Palapas)
✓ Buy combo park passes if visiting multiple attractions
✓ Negotiate with beach vendors
✓ Join free walking tours downtown
✓ Snorkel from public beaches instead of tours
✓ Rent equipment instead of booking guided tours

General Money Tips

✓ Pay in pesos, not dollars (better exchange rate)
✓ Use ATMs affiliated with banks
✓ Withdraw larger amounts less frequently (reduce ATM fees)
✓ Bring no-foreign-transaction-fee credit cards
✓ Skip expensive hotel WiFi upgrades
✓ Buy souvenirs at Mercado 28, not Hotel Zone
✓ Travel during off-season for 30-50% savings

I’ve saved thousands of dollars over the years by following these principles. The savings add up quickly, especially on longer trips.

What’s Included in an All Inclusive Resort

Typically Included:

✓ All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks)
✓ Unlimited alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks
✓ Most on-site activities (pools, beach, entertainment)
✓ Nightly shows and entertainment
✓ Kids clubs (at family resorts)
✓ Non-motorized water sports (kayaking, paddle boarding)
✓ Gym access
✓ Tips included (but extra tips appreciated)

Usually NOT Included:

✗ Premium alcohol brands (may cost extra)
✗ Off-site tours and excursions
✗ Spa treatments
✗ Motorized water sports (jet skis, parasailing)
✗ Specialty restaurants (may have limited reservations)
✗ Room service (sometimes included, sometimes extra)
✗ Marina/dive shop rentals
✗ Airport transfers

Pro tip: All-inclusive can be great value if you plan to eat/drink a lot and stay at the resort most of the time. If you’re planning lots of off-site tours, a regular hotel might be more economical. I’ve seen both scenarios play out hundreds of times.

Tipping Guide

Restaurants: 10-15% for good service, 15-20% for excellent
Bartenders: 20-40 MXN ($1-2) per drink or round
Hotel housekeeping: 40-100 MXN ($2-5) per day
Bellhop/porter: 20-40 MXN ($1-2) per bag
Tour guides: 200-400 MXN ($10-20) for full-day tour
Drivers: 100-200 MXN ($5-10) for day trips
Taxi drivers: Round up or 10% (not mandatory)
All-inclusive staff: 20-40 MXN ($1-2) per service (appreciated but not required)
Grocery baggers: 5-10 MXN ($0.25-0.50)
Gas station attendants: 10-20 MXN ($0.50-1)

Pro tip: Bring small bills for tipping. US $1 and $5 bills work, but pesos are preferred and get you better exchange value. Read my post about tipping in Cancun for more detailed info

Final Budget Tips

• Set a daily limit and track spending with an app
• Bring extra for emergencies (10-20% buffer)
• Factor in souvenirs (budget $50-200)
• Consider travel insurance costs ($40-100 for a week)
• Don’t forget pre-trip costs (flights, hotels, restaurants, tours)
• Currency exchange fees add up—use cards when possible
• Resort fees—some hotels charge extra (check before booking)
• Peak season = higher prices (December-April, especially holidays)

As you may have noticed by now, Cancun truly accommodates every budget level, from backpackers to luxury seekers. The key is understanding the real Cancun prices, knowing where to splurge and where to save, and planning ahead with accurate information.

Whether you’re searching for the cheapest Cancun all-inclusive packages on Expedia or calculating how much a trip to Cancun costs for 5 days, use this guide as your baseline. Cancun remains one of the Caribbean’s best values when you know how to navigate costs like a local rather than a first-time tourist.

Remember: Cancun can fit any budget. The key is planning ahead, knowing where to splurge and where to save, and being flexible with your spending priorities!