2-Week Mexican Riviera Itinerary
The word riviera is used typically to describe any stretch of a scenic coastline, and it is fair to say that the tropical paradise of the Mexican Riviera, encompassing over 20 towns and cities, has lived up to this name.
Conveniently along the stunning Caribbean coastline of the Yucatan Peninsula, the Mexican Riviera displays an array of attractions that showcase the region’s rich history and natural wonders.
For travelers who love grand journeys across varied landscapes, there are few getaways better than a trip to the Mexican Riviera.
While we suggest spending as much time as you can in the Riviera, this specially curated two-week itinerary will give you ample time to cover some of the iconic treasures and immerse in the area’s vibrant culture.
Table of Contents
Day 1-Cancun
After settling down in your accommodation, begin your trip to the city of Cancun with a visit to the Cancun Underwater Museum (MUSA) for a memorable start to your first day in the Mexican Riviera.
After exploring the underwater museum in-depth, enjoy some time on the beach in the main Zona Hotelera where some of the best beaches like Playa Delfines and Playa Marlin are located.
In the evening you can dance the night away at famous clubs like Coco Bongo or The City of Mandala.
Day 2-Cancun
Continue on your second day at Cancun with a visit to one of the most iconic attractions in Mexico, Chichen Itza, one of the new Seven Wonders of the World and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The main attractions here are the Pyramids of Kukulkan and the Temple of the Warriors. Explore the circular El Caracol building, used as an observatory by the Mayans.
Once you have explored Chichen Itza, cool off at the Ik Kil Cenote, about three km away from the site. This natural freshwater sinkhole is the most beautiful in Yucatan and a perfect place for swimming and snorkeling.
For lunch you can enjoy traditional local food at any of the restaurants, either in Chichen Itza or Ik Kil itself.
Post lunch, head back to Cancun to do some shopping at the famous Island Shopping Village, or simply relax at the beach.
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Day 3-Cancun
Leave the best for your final day in Cancun by catching a twenty-minute ferry ride to the striking Isla Mujeres island, 13 km away from Cancun.
Rent a bike to explore this charming island at your own pace. Visit Playa Norte, said to be the best beach in Mexico, and other attractions like Punta Sur sculpture park and Parque Garrafon.
Enjoy some local delicacies like tikin xic (marinated grilled fish) or pescadillas (tortillas stuffed with fish) before heading back to Cancun.
You can enjoy a relaxing last evening at Xochimilco, drink tequila and other beverages from the open-air bar, and listen to live music.
Day 4-Playa del Carmen
This popular beach town is located in the state of Quintana Roo in the Riviera Maya region of the Yucatan Peninsula.
If you don’t like crowded beaches, skip the main beach and head to Playa del Secreto or Secret Beach, only a 15-minute drive south of the town.
In the afternoon, head back to Playa del Carmen to enjoy the sights and sounds along the La Quinta Avenida. Explore Mexican art galleries or taste mouth-watering shrimp ceviche at Los Aguachiles.
Grab a table at a traditional cantina and sip margaritas and watch the world go by. Cap off the first day with a phenomenal Asian fusion meal at Babe’s Noodle Bar.
Day 5-Playa del Carmen
Rise early on the second morning and head straight to the cliffside ruins of Tulum. Enjoy jaw-dropping views of the Caribbean Sea as you wander through the labyrinth of ancient structures.
Don your swimsuit for a snorkeling adventure at the magnificent Cenote Dos Ojos where you can drift through stalactite lines in this natural wonder.
Recharge yourself with a sumptuous lunch at El Camello, known for its generous servings and authentic Yucatan cuisine.
Spend the latter part of the day soaking up at Mamita’s Beach Club to watch the legendary Playa del Carmen sunset with a cocktail in hand.
If you are still hungry, you can try some excellent seafood at the Lido Beach Club Restaurant before calling it a day.
Day 6-Playa del Carmen
Enjoy your last day by booking a room at an all-inclusive resort for the true holiday experience.
Not only will you be treated like royalty, but your package comes with unlimited food and a variety of drink options to choose from.
In the evening, you can stroll on the sands of the warm beach with a frozen margarita in hand and dwell on the moments of your stay in Playa del Carmen.
Day 7-Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve
A 42 km dirt track connects the Punta Allen side of the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve which is covered in roughly three hours.
Stop at the earliest inhabited Mayan site of Muyil, dating back to 350 BC, located 15 km south of Tulum before heading to the reserve.
Sian Ka’an is home to a diverse environment that has plenty of flora and fauna and all kinds of resident and migratory birds, many of which are endangered.
Day 8-Cozumel Island
Take a ferry from Playa del Carmen to Cozumel island, famous for its diving spots and enjoy colorful reefs in the Riviera Maya which form a part of the Mesoamerican reef system, the second-largest in the world.
Spend time at the San Gervasio archaeological site, surrounded by lush jungle.Visit the eastern coast of Cozumel for unspoiled beaches and breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea.
Day 9-Cozumel
Spend your entire second day at the Punta Sur Ecological Park, located south of the island. Climb to the top of the Celarain Lighthouse for surreal views of Cozumel and the surrounding areas.
Cozumel has many good choices for dinner like the Portosal for great oceanic views or Casa Mission for Mexican food.
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Day 10-Bacalar
You can reach Bacalar from Puerto Morelos, via Playa del Carmen. Once there head straight to Los Cocalitos, the weird-looking formations of actual living fossils made of bacteria and the oldest on the planet.
Stroll around Barclay to explore the stunning murals and visit the 18th-century San Felipe Fortress built to safeguard the city walls.
Enjoy lunch at La Playita and drinks and dinner at Patio de Aguacate before heading back to your hotel.
Day 11-12- Bacalar and Mahahual
The small town of Mahahual is located just 15 km from Bacalar and is famous for its beautiful freshwater Lagoon of Seven Colors.
This lesser-known destination of Mexico is on the verge of exploding in popularity. While the Caribbean coast is known for its clear blue waters, the Seven Colors Lagoon offers an even more vibrant spectacle.
Spend quality time at the balnearios which are small eateries located along the lagoon. The best way to explore the place is by kayaking and watching the sunset over the lagoon, an absolute must in Bacalar.
Day 13- Return to Cancun
Set aside the last two days of your itinerary to see some attractions you missed on your first time in Cancun.
Stop at the ecological Xel-Ha Park, a natural aquarium perfect for diving and snorkeling. There are a number of viewpoints offering views of the cenotes and tropical forests.
On the last day, enjoy a leisurely breakfast and shop for souvenirs as there are plenty of things to bring back home from fine Mexican silver jewelry, and colorful Talavera ceramics to vibrant textiles.
