Tulum Itinerary | Our Editor’s Guide To The Perfect 5-day Trip
Welcome to Tulum, a destination of juxtaposition where history, hippie culture, excess, and modern design collide. Once a thriving Mayan port known as Zama, or “Place of the Dawning Sun,” Tulum has evolved into a world-renowned tropical destination for travelers. With its mesmerising cliffside ruins, sparkling cenotes, and vibrant arts scene, Tulum offers a vacation incomparable to anywhere else.
This 5-day itinerary is designed to help you experience the best of Tulum. From lounging at boutique hotels with impeccable interiors to exploring ancient ruins and savoring local flavors, each day is planned to provide the perfect balance of adventure and tranquility. Whether you’re here to swim with turtles, dance under the stars, or unwind poolside, this itinerary ensures you’ll soak up every bit of Tulum’s magic without missing a beat.
Tulum 5-Day Itinerary
Image: Mi Amor Hotel in Tulum, Courtesy of Expedia
Day 1 - Arrival
Morning || Welcome to Tulum
Arrive and settle into Mi Amor, an adults-only boutique hotel with modern, playful interior design . With its dopamine décor aesthetic, and stunning cliffside location, it’s the perfect spot to kick off your Tulum adventure.
If you’re arriving on a Sunday, don’t miss their jazz sessions—because nothing says chill quite like sipping cocktails while listening to live music with ocean views.
For a more detailed read on where to stay in Tulum read our guide to Tulum’s best boutique hotels.
Image: Mi Amor Hotel in Tulum, Courtesy of Expedia
Afternoon || Beach Clubs – Cooking, Cocktails & Relaxation
Kick off your Tulum adventure at La Zebra for their famous beachside cooking class. You'll learn how to prepare authentic local dishes, all while sipping on a mezcal cocktail and feeling the warm sand between your toes. It's laid-back but oh-so-Tulum. La Zebra is known for its chilled atmosphere and friendly service, making it the perfect spot to unwind after your travels.
The tortilla and salsa cooking class at La Zebra is 1,450MX per person, we recommend booking in advance.
For more beach club options, read our guide on Tulum’s best beach clubs.
Image: La Zebra Hotel in Tulum, Courtesy of Expedia
Evening || Rooftop Dining & Sunset Magic at Kanan
For dinner, head to the rooftop nests of Kanan for a surreal sunset experience. This spot offers unparalleled jungle views, with live music performances.
We recommend trying to catch their renowned violinist, who plays to the backdrop of pink hued skies, while you bask in the beauty of the scenery, with one of the restaurant’s signature cocktails in hand. Settle in and enjoy the Tulum magic.
Day 2 - Cenotes & Mayan History
Morning || Gran Cenote
Kick off the day with a visit to Gran Cenote. This iconic cenote is famous for its crystal-clear water, perfect for snorkeling or swimming with turtles. But be warned—this place can get busier than a New York brunch spot, so arrive early to snag your spot in paradise before it fills up.
Afternoon || Tulum Ruins
Once you’ve dried off, take a trip to the Tulum Ruins, just a short walk away from Mi Amor. The clifftop ruins have stunning views over the Caribbean sea and will give you a fascinating glimpse into Mayan history. The proximity to your hotel makes this a no-brainer for an afternoon of exploration.
Evening || Dine & Dance at Tora Tulum
Head over to Tora Tulum for a dinner that’s as much about the atmosphere as it is the food. This Asian-fusion spot has an electric vibe, with delicious sushi, cocktails that pack a punch, and a scene that carries on well into the night. If you’re ready to dance off your dinner, you’re in the right place.
Day 3 - Cozumel Day Trip
Morning || Ferry to Cozumel for a Jeep Adventure
Jump on the ferry from Playa del Carmen and take a ride over to Cozumel, where wild beaches, and picturesque coastlines await. A Jeep tour around the island is the best way to explore Cozumel’s wild side. Take in the views, feel the wind in your hair, and enjoy the freedom of the open road.
Afternoon || Mojitos & Beach Clubs
Make a stop at the iconic Welcome to Miami bar for a mojito—it’s a Cozumel rite of passage. Then, head over to Buccanos Beach Club for some pool side margaritas, and lofi music. Buccanos has an unpretentious, welcoming atmosphere, delicious seafood, and the kind of crystal-clear water that begs for a swim.
You’ll find that the prices in Cozumel are generally much more reasonable than Tulum. At Buccano's there is a 400 mx entry fee (about $20 USD) for the beach club, which can be reimbursed on your consumption throughout the day.
Image: Gitano Beach Club, Courtesy of Grupo Gitano
Evening || Relax in Tulum
After a day of adventure, head back to Tulum to get ready for an evening of good music, and more delicious dining. Grab dinner at Gitano or Casa Jaguar—both are mut-visits when in town.
Casa Jaguar offers a lush jungle setting, with an everchanging line up of guest DJ’s and events. They’re famous for their Thursday night jungle parties and smokey mezcal cocktails.
Gitano is renowned for it’s gypset style, Gitano Jungle is the main restaurant, open from 6pm, which hosts an eclectic array of musicians and DJs late into the evening. You’ll find Gitano Jungle at the end of Tulum beach near the ruins, and Mi Amor. Gitano beach club is now located at the South end of Tulum beach, and also offers dining until 8pm, if you’re after something a little more relaxed.
Day 4 - Biking, Shopping & Art Trails
Morning || Bike Along Tulum Beach & Matcha Mama Smoothies
Start your morning with a leisurely bike ride along Tulum Beach, to soak up the boho design style of the beachside boutiques and cafes. Stop by Matcha Mama for a smoothie bowl—fresh, fruity, and perfect for curing your hangover.
Afternoon || Aldea Zama & Downtown Tulum
Next, bike toward Aldea Zama, an up-and-coming neighborhood known for its stylish cafes and boutiques. Stop at Safari Comedor Zama for a laid-back lunch with fresh, local ingredients, or continue into Downtown Tulum and grab a bite at Onyx. Whether you go for modern Tulum vibes or rustic jungle chic, both offer delicious menus and cool atmospheres.
Image: Holistika Art Trail, Tulum
Late Afternoon || Holistika Art Trail & La Veleta
After lunch, head over to Holistika in La Veleta for a stroll along the art trail. This hidden jungle gem features colorful art installations surrounded by nature, making it a perfect spot to reset and recharge. On the way back, bike through La Veleta’s main street and stop for a coffee at La Pizzine before taking a shortcut back through Aldea Zama to return to the beach.
Image: Distrito Panamera, Courtesy of Expedia
Evening || Dinner at Distrito Panamera
Finish your day with dinner at Distrito Panamera. This hotspot is known for its vibrant atmosphere and mix of modern Mexican flavors. With its cool crowd and delicious dishes, Distrito Panamera is the perfect place to round out your day in Tulum.
Day 5 - Farewell Tulum
Morning || One Last Beach Ride
On your last morning, hop on your bike for a final ride along the beach. Take in the beauty of Tulum one last time, stopping for coffee or a quick breakfast at a beachside café.
Afternoon || Departure
Wrap up your time in Tulum with a little last-minute shopping or a quick dip in the sea before saying goodbye to this magical town. Whether it’s a walk, a swim, or a farewell toast, Tulum has a way of making you want to come back again and again.
This itinerary for Tulum gives you a quick look at the best of the region, from Mi Amor’s incredible poolside lounging and jazz sessions to historic landmarks, and dining. Whether you're diving into cenotes, enjoying rooftop sunsets, or exploring local art trails, Tulum is full of unique experiences unlike anywhere else in the world.