Cancún

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Cancún

Cancún's white sandy beaches and warm, crystal waters make it a paradise for all beach and water sports enthusiasts. Add a vibrant nightlife and the closeness to the breathtaking Mayan ruins, and you have Mexico's most popular tourist hotspot. Caring for four million tourists every year, it's hard to understand how this beautiful resort was a sleepy fishing village just a few decades ago. Its colorful buzz and ancient traditions co-existing with ultra-modern developments enchant everyone, from backpackers to luxury travelers.

The City

Today, Cancún is known worldwide for its turquoise-blue water beaches, luxurious resorts, and bustling nightlife. But before this Mexican city became a major tourist destination, the region, which was once home to the Mayan civilization, was mostly wetlands, mangroves, jungles, and untouched beaches. After it was left abandoned for centuries, the Mexican government finally realized in 1968 its true potential as a holiday hotspot. Currently, Cancún is divided into two distinctive districts, the famous Hotel Zone (Zona Hotelera), a beachfront strip of hotels, resorts, eateries, shops, bars, and nightclubs, and the actual city of Cancún, known as El Centro. The Hotel Zone, which is surrounded by 25 kilometers of pure white sandy beach, is linked to the city via the four-lane Boulevard Kukulcán.

Do & See

Apart from its dreamy beaches and energetic nightlife, Cancún offers a myriad of activities to fill your day. From historical sites where you can learn more about Mexico’s rich history and culture to breathtaking and unique natural spots to thrilling water sports and even the chance to swim with dolphins — or sharks for the courageous ones.

Dining

Mexican cuisine is very versatile and best known for its intense and varied flavors, colorful decoration, and variety of spices. Tacos, nachos, and guacamole are only a small part of Cancún’s culinary repertoire. Whether you fancy a quick snack on the trot or a gourmet meal in stylish settings, Cancún has a fantastic selection of restaurants featuring dishes from all over the world.

Cafés

From quaint local coffee shops to international chains, Cancún's coffee culture offers a diverse range of brews, from traditional Mexican coffee with hints of cinnamon and chocolate to specialty espresso-based creations.

Bars & Nightlife

Whatever you're in the mood for, you'll find it in Cancún. Shake your hips to Latin music, break it down to hip hop, pump it up to club music, or enjoy an extraordinary cabaret show — Cancún has developed around tourism and won't fail to fulfill your expectations.

Shopping

Amidst the beaches, jungle, and culture, Cancún also provides its visitors with every shopping experience imaginable. From traditional market stalls selling local handicrafts to modern indoor and outdoor shopping malls, Cancún's shops are as versatile and creative as its people, and the privileged tax status of Cancún (10%) makes it a popular destination for buying luxury items. Mexico is the world's number-one exporter of cowboy boots and is also famous for its silverware, tequila, hot chili sauces, and handcrafted pottery. Other popular souvenirs are vanilla essence, Aloe Vera products, blankets, and, of course, the famous Mexican sombreros.

Tourist Information