If you’re attempting to resolve whether or not to go to Playa del Carmen vs Tulum on your subsequent Mexican trip, you’re in luck! I’m a giant fan of each locations, and I’m right here that can assist you resolve which one is best for you. In this publish, I’ll evaluate and distinction the 2 seashore locations on the Yucatan Peninsula and inform you about my experiences there. So learn on, and hopefully by the tip you’ll have a bit of higher concept of the place you wish to go!
How to Get There – Playa del Carmen vs Tulum
Whether you’re visiting Tulum or Playa del Carmen, in case you are arriving by airplane you’ll land at Cancun Airport (CUN). This is the closest airport to each of those Caribbean coast locations. When contemplating attending to Playa del Carmen vs Tulum from the airport, Playa del Carmen wins, as it’s nearer in proximity. Still, Tulum just isn’t an excessive amount of farther, so it doesn’t make all that a lot of a distinction all else thought of equal.
Getting There – Playa del Carmen
There are a number of corporations that provide transportation from the airport to Playa del Carmen, and the costs range relying on the corporate and the kind of service you select.
Most individuals go for the bus or shuttle service, as it’s the most economical possibility. You can take an ADO bus from the airport. The buses depart each 20-Half-hour and the experience into Playa del Carmen takes about 1 hour. Tickets value round $9 USD per individual.
Taxis are additionally a well-liked alternative, as they’re typically quicker and extra comfy than buses or shuttles. However, taxis are costlier than different choices. You can discover them proper outdoors of the arrivals terminal. A one-way journey will value you round $45-50 USD and will take about 45 minutes relying on visitors.
If you might be searching for probably the most handy approach to get to Playa del Carmen from Cancun Airport, a non-public switch is your finest wager. Private transfers are typically quicker and extra comfy than different choices, and they are often personalized to satisfy your particular wants. This is usually costlier than taking a taxi however might be extra handy in case you are touring with numerous baggage or have young children.
Getting there – Tulum
There are a couple of other ways to get from Cancun International Airport to Tulum. You can take a bus, shuttle, taxi, or non-public switch.
If you’re taking a bus, the best choice is to take the ADO bus. The ADO bus station is situated in Terminal 3 of the airport. From there, you possibly can take a direct bus to Tulum. The journey takes about 2 hours and prices round $9 USD.
Shuttles are additionally an possibility for getting from the airport to Tulum. There are numerous corporations that provide this service, and the value will rely on which firm you select. Shuttle journeys often take round 1.5 hours and value between $25-30 USD.
Taxis can be found 24 hours a day on the airport. A taxi from the airport to Tulum will value round $60-70 USD and the journey takes round 2 hours.
If you wish to keep away from the effort of public transport, you possibly can ebook a non-public switch as an alternative. This door-to-door service will take you straight from the airport to your lodging in Tulum. Prices begin at round $80 USD.
How to Get Around Playa del Carmen vs Tulum
There is not any straightforward reply on the subject of deciding whether or not Playa del Carmen or Tulum is the higher place to go to as a vacationer. Both locations have their execs and cons when it comes to accessibility and ease of navigation.
However, total, Playa del Carmen could also be barely extra user-friendly for first-time guests on account of its bigger measurement and extra developed infrastructure. Tulum, however, boasts a extra laid-back ambiance and is famend for its pure magnificence, making it a well-liked alternative for these trying to escape the hustle and bustle of metropolis life.
Ultimately, the perfect resolution is to analysis each choices upfront and select the vacation spot that most closely fits your particular person wants and preferences.
Getting Around Playa del Carmen
Because Playa del Carmen is comparatively small, many guests discover that they’ll simply get round by foot. Most of the vacationer areas are situated shut to one another, so you possibly can simply discover on foot. However, if you wish to go additional afield or discover extra of the town, there are many transportation choices accessible.
The public bus system in Playa del Carmen is environment friendly and cheap. You should purchase tickets at any of the bus stops, and the buses run continuously. Taxis are additionally broadly accessible, and they’re sometimes metered. Finally, many lodges supply shuttle companies to and from the airport or different in style sights.
Most guests discover that Playa del Carmen is protected to stroll round, even at night time. However, as with all vacation spot, it’s at all times advisable to take warning when strolling in unfamiliar areas or after darkish. If you do really feel unsafe at any time, there are many taxis and different transportation choices accessible that can assist you get to your vacation spot safely.
Getting Around Tulum
There are a couple of other ways to get round Tulum. You can stroll, take a bus, or lease a bicycle or scooter. The metropolis is small and comparatively flat, so it’s straightforward to get round on foot. However, it may be fairly sizzling throughout the day, so you could wish to contemplate different choices when you’re not used to strolling within the warmth.
The native buses are referred to as “colectivos” they usually run recurrently all through the day. They’re an affordable and simple approach to get round, however they are often crowded throughout peak instances. They are the small white buses that cease on the most important bus station in Pueblo.
If you’re searching for a extra enjoyable and festive approach to get round, you possibly can lease a bicycle or scooter. This is a good possibility when you’re touring with mates or household. Just make sure to put on a helmet and drive safely!
Tulum is mostly a protected place for vacationers, nevertheless it’s at all times finest to train warning when strolling round at night time. Stick to well-lit areas and keep away from strolling alone if attainable.
Which has Better Beaches – Playa del Carmen vs Tulum
If you’re planning a visit to Mexico and try to resolve between Playa del Carmen and Tulum, you may be questioning which one has the higher seashores. Both locations have gorgeous sandy shores and turquoise waters, however there are some key variations that may aid you make your resolution.
Playa del Carmen’s seashores are typically extra developed, with loads of eating places, bars, and retailers lining the shore. This might be nice when you’re searching for a vigorous ambiance, nevertheless it additionally signifies that the seashores might be extra crowded. Tulum’s seashores, however, are rather more pure and secluded. You’ll discover fewer individuals and extra alternatives to chill out in peace. However, this additionally signifies that there are fewer facilities, so that you’ll must be ready to carry your individual meals and drinks.
When it involves the standard of the sand and water, each Playa del Carmen and Tulum boast stunning seashores. However, a few of Playa del Carmen’s shoreline is man-made, which signifies that the sand is usually extra powdery than Tulum’s. The water in each locations is clear and clear, though Tulum’s could have a slight benefit when it comes to visibility.
So, which has higher seashores – Playa del Carmen or Tulum? It actually depends upon what you’re searching for in a seashore trip. If you desire a vigorous ambiance with loads of issues to do, then Playa del Carmen is a good alternative. If you’re searching for a extra relaxed and pure setting, then Tulum is the place for you. Whichever vacation spot you select, you’re positive to get pleasure from your time on the seashore!
Beaches in Playa del Carmen
There is little doubt that the seashores in Playa del Carmen are among the finest in Mexico. With heat, clear waters and loads of actions to maintain you busy, it’s no surprise that Playa del Carmen is such a well-liked vacation spot.
Whether you’re trying to chill out on the seashore or participate in some water sports activities, there’s one thing for everybody on the seashores in Playa del Carmen.
If you’re searching for a spot to celebration, then head to Mamitas Beach Club. This seashore membership is thought for its vigorous ambiance and wonderful events. There’s at all times one thing happening at Mamitas Beach Club, and also you’re positive to have a good time when you go to.
If you’re searching for a extra relaxed ambiance, then Playa del Carmen has loads of these seashores too. Xpu-Ha seashore is likely one of the hottest seashores for households, because it’s calm and shallow waters make it good for swimming and taking part in within the sand.
Playa del Carmen seashores are undoubtedly price a go to even when you find yourself basing your self in Tulum.
Beaches in Tulum
Some of the perfect seashores in Tulum might be discovered on the north facet of city. This is the place you’ll discover Playa Paraiso, which is broadly thought of to be some of the stunning seashores in Mexico. It’s good for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling, and there are many eating places and bars close by when you want a break from the solar.
If you’re searching for a extra secluded seashore expertise, Playa Maya is price a go to. It’s a bit additional away from city, nevertheless it’s nicely well worth the effort. The water right here is crystal clear and ideal for swimming, and there are only a few individuals round. It’s the right place to chill out and revel in some peace and quiet.
If you might be searching for a extra quiet and enjoyable seashore, then you must take a look at Soliman Bay. This bay is situated on the east coast of Tulum and it’s identified for its calm water and exquisite surroundings. It is a good place to go for a swim, chill out, and take within the view. There are additionally many eating places and bars within the space, so yow will discover one thing to eat or drink whereas having fun with the seashore.
Both Tulum and Playa del Carmen have seashores which are positive to make you overlook life again dwelling. Who desires to consider work anyway, with white sand seashores and clear, turquoise waters?
Things to do in Playa del Carmen vs Tulum
There are undoubtedly extra issues to do in Playa del Carmen than in Tulum. Playa del Carmen has much more retailers, eating places, and bars, in addition to a vigorous nightlife scene. There are additionally extra actions and excursions to select from in Playa del Carmen, comparable to snorkeling, scuba diving, swimming with dolphins, and so on.
However, Tulum, in my view, has extra diverse actions. Everything from seashore events to yoga lessons, Mayan ruins and nature reserves.
When contemplating Playa del Carmen vs Tulum and who wins within the battle of ‘things to do’, this one largely falls in your pursuits.
Me, personally, not being a membership individual and taking an curiosity in yoga and spirituality, Tulum wins, palms down.
Things to do in Playa del Carmen
There’s no scarcity of issues to do in Playa del Carmen. Whether you’re searching for museums and historic websites, enjoyable occasions and events, or simply distinctive experiences, there’s one thing for everybody. Here are among the finest issues to do in Playa del Carmen:
- Visit the Museo de Arte Popular Mexicano – This museum is a good way to study Mexican tradition and artwork. It options quite a lot of conventional and up to date items, making it a must-see for any artwork lover. Other museums price trying out embody the Museo Nacional de Arte Popular and the Casa Cenote.
- Go to Xcaret Park – Xcaret Park is an ecological and archaeological theme park that gives quite a lot of actions and sights. You can discover the park’s Mayan ruins, swim in its underground rivers, or take a tour of its butterfly sanctuary.
Things to do in Tulum
There are many nice issues to do in Tulum, together with visiting museums, attending occasions and events, and having wonderful experiences. Here are among the finest issues to do in Tulum:
- Visit the Tulum Archaeological Site: The Tulum Archaeological Site is a must-see for anybody visiting Tulum. The website contains the well-preserved stays of a Mayan metropolis, in addition to a variety of temples and different buildings. Visitors can even take a swim within the close by cenote (pure pool).
- Attend a Party at one among Tulum’s Many Beach Clubs: Tulum is dwelling to a variety of world-famous seashore golf equipment, comparable to Maya Beach Club and Ziggy Marley’s UMA. Parties at these golf equipment are at all times a great time, with nice music and loads of dancing.
- Explore the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve: The Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve is a protected space that’s dwelling to all kinds of plant and animal life. Visitors can participate in actions comparable to fowl watching, mountaineering, and canoeing.
- Visit the Cobá Archaeological Site: The Cobá Archaeological Site is one other must-see for anybody occupied with Mayan historical past. The website contains a variety of well-preserved ruins, in addition to a big pyramid that guests can climb.
- Take a Yoga Class: There are many yoga retreats in Tulum, because it is likely one of the finest yoga locations on the earth. Ground, middle, and concentrate on your self for a category, whether or not it’s 45 minutes or 90 minutes when you tune the remainder of the world out and switch inwards.
Day Trips from Playa del Carmen & Tulum
There are a variety of totally different day journeys which you could take from Playa del Carmen and Tulum. Both cities supply quite a lot of actions and sights to see, so it actually depends upon what you’re occupied with. Given the shut proximity of Playa del Carmen to Tulum, many of the day journeys might be executed whether or not you’re based mostly in a single metropolis or the opposite. One could take a bit of longer, however not an excessive amount of.
Cancun can be one instance of a day journey that’s considerably nearer to Playa del Carmen than Tulum.
If you’re searching for some journey, there are a selection of various archaeological websites which you could discover across the space. Chichen Itza and Coba are two of the most well-liked choices and are undoubtedly price a go to. Tulum to Chichen Itza or Coba are barely nearer than coming from Playa del Carmen. The Tulum ruins may very well be executed as a day journey from Playa del Carmen – you possibly can swim in Playa Ruinas afterwards, as the sensation of swimming beneath the traditional stone buildings is one thing everybody ought to expertise no less than as soon as.
If you’re occupied with one thing a bit of extra relaxed, there are additionally many stunning seashores which you could spend the day at. Try visiting Akumal to take a look at the enormous sea turtles (simply please don’t contact them!).
Both Playa del Carmen and Tulum supply a terrific number of day journeys, so it actually depends upon what you’re occupied with.
Shopping in Playa del Carmen
There are loads of purchasing choices in Playa del Carmen, from native markets to luxurious boutiques.
For a style of the native taste, head to one of many many markets scattered round city. You’ll discover every little thing from contemporary produce to handmade souvenirs. While Playa del Carmen is thought for its luxurious resorts, there are additionally loads of purchasing alternatives for these on a price range.
For native markets, head to fifth Avenue the place you’ll discover a vary of stalls promoting every little thing from handmade jewellery to contemporary produce. For one thing a bit of extra upscale, take a look at the retailers and boutiques alongside La Quinta Avenida.
And when you’re searching for the final word luxurious purchasing expertise, Playa del Carmen is dwelling to a variety of high-end malls and designer shops. For the perfect choice, head to Plaza Las Americas or Centro Maya.
Shopping in Tulum
There are loads of nice locations to buy groceries in Tulum, whether or not you’re searching for native, genuine markets or luxurious retailers.
For the perfect native markets, head to the Mercado Municipal or the Bazar de Artesanias, the place you’ll discover loads of handmade items and souvenirs.
Mercado Municipal is the right place to search out contemporary produce and different locally-sourced items. Located within the city centre, it’s additionally a terrific alternative to take in among the space’s vibrant tradition.
For a very genuine Tulum purchasing expertise, head to Bazar de Artesanias the place you’ll discover handmade items from native artisans. From jewelry to textiles, there’s lots to select from.
Paseo del Carmen is an out of doors shopping center dwelling to quite a lot of high-end shops, in addition to eating places and cafes. It’s the right place to spend a day when you’re searching for some retail remedy.
If you’re searching for luxurious purchasing, the El Pueblo Shopping Centre is the place to go, with its number of high-end shops and eating places. Whichever sort of purchasing you’re after, Tulum has one thing to go well with everybody.
Nightlife Playa del Carmen vs Tulum
Nightlife in Playa del Carmen vs Tulum is likely one of the starkest variations between the 2 locations. While Playa del Carmen is a well-liked nightlife vacation spot, Tulum is rather more laid-back and chill with fewer membership choices and a extra intimate bar scene. Personally, for me, Tulum wins this one as I’ve by no means been so into golf equipment. But, in case you are, then Playa del Carmen might be the higher vacation spot for you!
Nightlife in Playa del Carmen
Playa del Carmen is well-known for its vigorous nightlife scene, so there’s no scarcity of occasions and events to get pleasure from. Clubbers might be of their component right here, with loads of bars and golf equipment to select from.
One of the nice issues about Playa del Carmen’s nightlife is that it’s so various. You can discover every little thing from low-key lounges to rowdy bars and golf equipment. And, for the reason that metropolis is such a well-liked vacationer vacation spot, you’ll discover individuals from all around the world having fun with the nightlife right here.
If you’re searching for a very distinctive expertise, make sure to take a look at among the metropolis’s rooftop bars. These bars supply gorgeous views of Playa del Carmen and are the right place to get pleasure from a cocktail or two whereas watching the sundown.
The in style celebration avenue, Quinta Avenida, is lined with golf equipment and bars that keep open till the early hours of the morning. If you’re searching for a extra laid-back ambiance, there are additionally loads of bars and pubs that provide a extra relaxed vibe.
Hit up Senor Frogs for the notorious tequila conga line (my first of which was after I was *gasp* 15 years outdated!).
Nightlife in Tulum
If you’re searching for a vigorous nightlife scene, Tulum just isn’t the place for you. Most bars and golf equipment shut by midnight, and there’s a distinct lack of huge, flashy nightclubs. However, there are nonetheless loads of locations to get pleasure from a couple of drinks and a few good music.
The majority of bars in Tulum are small and intimate, with a laid-back ambiance. They concentrate on high quality over amount, and also you’ll usually discover them taking part in host to dwell music performances. If you’re trying to dance the night time away, there are a couple of locations that keep open till late – however don’t count on something too wild or rowdy.
Overall, the nightlife in Tulum is low-key and relaxed. It’s the right place to get pleasure from a couple of drinks with mates, and take in the colourful ambiance of this distinctive city.
Restaurants in Playa del Carmen & Tulum
If you’re attempting to resolve between Playa del Carmen and Tulum on your subsequent trip, one of many stuff you may be questioning about is the distinction between the eating places within the two areas.
There are a couple of key variations that may make or break your resolution to base your self in Playa del Carmen vs Tulum on your trip, relying on private style in addition to dietary desire.
Restaurants in Playa del Carmen
Restaurants in Playa del Carmen have a reasonably equal number of each worldwide delicacies and conventional Mexican fare. There are tons of seafood joints in addition to loads of informal locations by the seashore to get pleasure from a fast snack.
As an entire, the eating places in Playa del Carmen are largely informal locations the place you possibly can seize shared appetizers or focus extra on ingesting than consuming.
Favorite Restaurants in Playa del Carmen
Harry’s Steakhouse & Raw Bar
Very upscale, 5 star steakhouse expertise. Try the Black Oynx Kobe Steak and Lobster Risotto – I couldn’t resolve which was higher. If he’s working, attempt to get a desk in Adrian’s part!
Quinta Avenida 1-Lote 8B, Gonzalo Guerrero, 77710 Playa del Carmen
Axiote Cocina De México
Best Mexican meals in PDC! Try the duck tacos for meals, and you’ll’t go mistaken with the mezcal flight for drinks.
Calle 34 Nte #128, Gonzalo Guerrero, 77720 Playa del Carmen
Restaurants in Tulum
Restaurants in Tulum are extra centered on conventional Mexican dishes, with much less worldwide affect than in Playa del Carmen.
Tulum undoubtedly has extra vegan and vegetarian choices than Playa del Carmen, in addition to extra wholesome and nutritious eating places from which to decide on.
Tulum’s eating places are typically extra upscale as an entire than these in Playa del Carmen, so when you’re searching for some romantic date night time choices, Tulum is your higher wager.
Favorite Restaurants in Tulum
Burrito Amor
Easily the highest favourite restaurant amongst vacationers who go to Tulum. Hands-down, the perfect burritos on the earth! My favourite is smoked pork and pineapple (add grilled purple onion). Their breakfast burritos are bomb, too!
Av. Tulum Mz 05-Lote 03, Tulum Centro, Centro, 77760 Tulum
GAIAD TULUM
A little bit of a hidden gem, because it’s by no means been too crowded after I’ve visited, which is unbelievable contemplating the standard of the meals and the fervour the chef places into his dishes. They have a up to date, upscale reinvention of Mexican classics. Anything on the menu is price ordering, however I particularly cherished the aguachile with shrimp and pumpkin blossoms.
Calle Beta Nte. 11, Tulum Centro, 77780 Tulum
Hotels in Playa del Carmen or Tulum
There are a couple of key variations between the lodges in Playa del Carmen and people in Tulum. First, the lodges in Playa del Carmen are typically bigger and extra luxurious mega resorts, whereas the lodges in Tulum are smaller and extra intimate.
Second, the costs of lodges in Playa del Carmen are typically greater than these in Tulum.
The ambiance of the 2 areas is kind of totally different – Playa del Carmen is livelier and extra tourist-oriented, whereas Tulum is extra laid-back and relaxed. Playa del Carmen lodges are additionally extra prone to be all inclusive resorts, as Tulum doesn’t have too a lot of these.
Playa del Carmen’s lodges are largely situated in downtown Playa del Carmen in addition to alongside the seashore. Tulum’s lodges are all (just about) situated within the resort zone, outdoors of Tulum city (additionally known as downtown Tulum). The resort zone is basically the world alongside the shoreline.
Which Destination – Tulum or Playa del Carmen – is Better for X Type of Traveler?
Budget Travelers – Tulum vs Playa del Carmen
There’s no straightforward reply on the subject of deciding whether or not Playa del Carmen or Tulum is healthier for price range vacationers. Both locations have their very own distinctive charms and supply loads of inexpensive lodging and actions for guests on a decent price range. However, there are a couple of key variations between the 2 that will aid you make your resolution.
First of all, Playa del Carmen is a a lot bigger and extra developed city than Tulum. This signifies that there are extra choices for price range lodges and eating places, in addition to a wider vary of actions to maintain you entertained. However, it additionally signifies that costs are typically barely greater than in Tulum.
If you’re searching for a extra laid-back and genuine Mexican expertise, Tulum is certainly the place for you. This small city has a way more relaxed ambiance, and also you’ll discover that costs are decrease throughout the board. However, there are fewer lodging and eating choices accessible, so it’s necessary to do your analysis upfront.
Though neither of those in style vacationer locations are notably price range pleasant, they’re additionally not all that costly, both. It’s a tie.
Solo Travelers – Tulum vs Playa del Carmen
Well, what are you searching for in a solo journey? Playa del Carmen is a little more constructed up and touristy, however this additionally signifies that there are extra actions and nightlife choices. Tulum is extra laid again and pure, however can really feel a bit remoted when you’re not used to solo journey. Ultimately, the perfect vacation spot for you’ll rely in your private preferences.
If you’re searching for a vigorous solo journey with loads of issues to do, Playa del Carmen might be a greater possibility. The resort city has a variety of actions, from exploring historic ruins to lounging on the seashore to partying at one of many many nightclubs. You’ll by no means end up bored in Playa del Carmen.
However, when you’re searching for a extra enjoyable and low-key solo journey, Tulum could also be a greater possibility. The small city is situated on the seashore and is surrounded by pure magnificence. It’s the right place to unwind and revel in some peace and quiet. It’s additionally a terrific place for therapeutic from a traumatic life occasion, comparable to a demise, divorce, or breakup.
I personally would select Tulum for this class, however my pursuits are extra geared towards yoga and solitude moderately than celebration hostels and nightlife.
Families – Tulum vs Playa del Carmen
Both locations have their very own distinctive charms and supply loads of actions and sights that households can get pleasure from collectively. However, there are a couple of key variations between the 2 that will sway your resolution in a single route or the opposite.
Tulum has extra upscale, boutique lodges, whereas Playa del Carmen reigns supreme when it comes to all inclusive lodges. There are additionally extra actions aimed in direction of children in Playa del Carmen, such because the water park and extra of a vigorous atmosphere.
I’m going to provide this class to Playa del Carmen.
Couples – Tulum vs Playa del Carmen
There are many issues to think about when deciding whether or not Playa del Carmen or Tulum is healthier for {couples}. Both locations supply gorgeous seashores, quite a lot of actions, and loads of romantic eating places and lodges. However, there are some key variations that will make one vacation spot extra interesting than the opposite on your particular wants.
Playa del Carmen may be higher for {couples} wanting to boost their relationship with enjoyable actions and journey. Tulum, however, may be the popular seashore vacation spot for {couples} who wish to spend high quality time collectively whereas barely leaving the resort room.
Which Destination is Better for you – Tulum or Playa del Carmen?
So, you’re attempting to resolve between Playa del Carmen and Tulum on your subsequent trip vacation spot. Both are extremely stunning locations with quite a bit to supply vacationers. So, how do you select?
Let’s begin with a fast overview of every place. Playa del Carmen is a well-liked resort city on Mexico’s Riviera Maya. It’s identified for its gorgeous seashores, vibrant nightlife, and luxurious lodges. Tulum, however, is a extra laid-back seashore city with a bohemian vibe. It’s well-known for its stunning seashores, Maya ruins, and eco-friendly resorts.
It actually depends upon what you’re searching for in a trip. If you desire a extra relaxed, laid-back ambiance, then Tulum might be the higher alternative. However, when you’re searching for extra of a celebration scene and nightlife, then Playa del Carmen might be a greater match.
Ultimately, the choice comes down to private desire. Both Playa del Carmen and Tulum are gorgeous locations which are price visiting. It simply depends upon what you’re searching for in a trip vacation spot.
For me and my persona sort, when evaluating Playa del Carmen and Tulum, I might at all times select Tulum. I do know, I do know – I mentioned I virtually moved to Playa del Carmen a couple of years in the past, however that was merely a matter of long-term lodging choices.
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