Playa del Carmen, Mexico
View from the ferry dock
Tourists entering Playa del Carmens ferry terminal

Playa del Carmen

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Mexico
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3 out of 4 Places to visit in Mexico

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4.2 /5 (19 ratings) Rate This Destination

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Ideal duration: 6 days

Best Time: April - May, October - March Read More

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"Drool over the fancy beaches and reefs"

Playa del Carmen Tourism

Outlined by the exotic Carbbean Sea, Playa Del Carmen is a beach resort town that also touches Riviera Maya to bring a natural bliss to this Mayan habitat. Close to Cancun and Cozumel, this blooming tourist spot is home to many European expats. As a result, you can find a blend of authentic Mexican flavors and sophisticated lifestyle in this beach-side city.

Playa Del Carmen is a perfect destination for those seeking a laid-back vacation on a beachside. In addition to sunbathing and swimming on the shore, you can also go for diving into the crystal-clear water, or snorkel into the ocean to befriend colorful tropical fishes. La Quinta Avenida is the most happening street in the city with an exuberant nightlife, a vibrant shopping spree and mouth-watering authentic delicacies. Come to Playa (that's what locals love to call it) and discover the mesmerising beauty of marine life, centuries-old Mayan culture, and the ultimate joy of relaxing in an indigenous fishing village.

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Things To Do In Playa del Carmen

Beach Time

Beach Time
Eco-parks

Eco-parks
Explore the Mayan ruins

Explore the Mayan ruins
Visit a Cenote

Visit a Cenote
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Currency in Playa del Carmen

Visa and MasterCards are usually accepted at several shops and restaurants, but cash is still the best option to consider. Some shopkeepers might agree on accepting payments in USD, but it won't be a great deal for your pocket. Making payments in MXN is a smart choice for tourists.

Shopping in Playa del Carmen

Popular souvenirs to buy in Playa Del Carmen are ceramics, embellished mirrors, leather items, blankets, embroidery works and alcohol. 5th Avenue (La Quinta Avenida) is the most buzzing area to spot flea markets, street shops and some branded stores. Don't forget to haggle over the prices.

Nightlife in Playa del Carmen

Most of the night clubs in Playa stay open till 6 am. Although there are not a lot of happening bars and clubs here like Cancun, but still you can find some great places between the Fifth Avenue and the beach.

History of Playa del Carmen

Playa Del Carmen was a home to Mayan civilization during its earliest stage. Until 1500, it was an important center for religion and trade for Mayans. Spanish invaders brought Catholicism and small pox along with them in 1518. This dwindled the population of Mayans, although some of them managed to set up small fishing villages in the area to preserve their losing culture. It gradually continued to grow as a vital port for trade in Mexico. Until 1980s, it was just an intermediary between Cozumel and Cancun which had already gained popularity as tourist destinations. However Playa Del Carmen soon caught the attention of travellers, and tourism started flourishing in the city.

Language of Playa del Carmen

Spanish is the language majorly spoken. Since it is a tourist-town; hotel staff, shopkeepers and some locals would usually talk to you in English. But it'd be better if you come prepared with a basic knowledge of their language.

Playa del Carmen Customs

Being in a beach city, people here can usually be seen wandering in their shorts and sandals. Though you must dress properly when walking in a high-end restaurant or hotel. People in Playa are fashionably late, particularly for social gatherings. Try matching up with the laid-back pace of the city, you'll feel less annoyed (business meetings are an exception). 10% - 15% tip is expected by waiters, while taxi drivers expect you to round up the bill.

Religion of Playa del Carmen

Catholicism

Daily Budget for Playa del Carmen

A budget traveler would easily manage food, bottled water, entertainment & activities, transportation and a drink with MXN 200 - 300. Mid-ranged expenditures increase this cost upto MXN 500 - 700. A luxurious day spent in Playa would cost more than MXN 1200 depending upon the preferences.

Exchanging Money in Playa del Carmen

There are very few banks which offer exchange services to people who are not their customers.The best way is to withdraw the local currency using ATMs. You'll get a much better rate, without any problem. Make sure you inform your bank about your trip in advance.

Best Time to Visit Playa del Carmen

How to Reach Playa del Carmen

How to Reach Overview

After arriving at the Cancun Airport, you can take a bus to reach Playa, where the bus stops at 5th Avenue and Juarez. If you're coming from Cozumel, you'll have to ride in a ferry to reach the city.

How to reach Playa del Carmen by flight

Cancun International Airport is the nearest airport, approx. 1 hour drive to Playa Del Carmen. Alternatively, you can land at Cozumel International Airport and then take a ferry to reach Playa.

How to reach Playa del Carmen by road

Cabs are available to commute to nearby cities. Renting a car might not be the best option to travel around.

How to reach Playa del Carmen by bus

There are bus terminals at La Quinta and Juarez which connect to nearby towns and areas.

How to reach Playa del Carmen by waterways

Ferries to Cozumel are available from 6 am to 11 pm.

Local transport in Playa del Carmen

The best way to navigate the beach town is on foot. Taxis can be hired to move around, just remember to negotiate with the prices before getting in. Although rental cars are available, but they only make sense if you want to visit some places outside the city.

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Playa del Carmen Photos

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FAQs on Playa del Carmen

What is the best time to visit Playa del carmen?

Playa Del Carmen is negligibly crowded in the months of April and May. You can get great deals on your stay, except for Easter Week and Spring Equinox when Mexicans rush here for a getaway. The town is prone to Hurricanes and/or heavy rains from June to September. Tourists cascade in the winter months from October to March, as a result of which the prices hike up ferociously. So if you're willing to plan a Winter holiday, you must ensure that you make the bookings atleast 6 months prior to your visit. Note that April and May are dry, making a good time for the beach, but not really great for getting to the jungles.
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What are the places near Playa del carmen?

The top places near to Playa del carmen are Cancun which is 63 km from Playa del carmen, Mexico city which is located 1266 km from Playa del carmen, London which is located 8023 km from Playa del carmen, Dubai which is located 13498 km from Playa del carmen, Amsterdam which is located 8338 km from Playa del carmen

What are the top hotels in Playa del carmen?

There are 2085 in Playa del carmen which can be booked through Holidify. The most popular hotels in Playa del carmen are Magia Beachside Apartment, Magic Paradise by BRIC, Casa Moskito, El Faro Beachfront 1 Bedroom Condo - Surf 407, Hacienda San Jose Condo by Bric, Villa Cardiel. You can see all the hotels in Playa del carmen here

What is the best way to reach Playa del carmen?

After arriving at the Cancun Airport, you can take a bus to reach Playa, where the bus stops at 5th Avenue and Juarez. If you're coming from Cozumel, you'll have to ride in a ferry to reach the city.
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What is the local food in Playa del carmen?

There are a lot of traditional Mayan dishes you can try out to get an authentic gastronomic experience in Playa. You'll need to ditch the main tourist area to look for restaurants offering local dishes, such as Pibil (made of chicken or pork), poc chuc (grilled pork marinated in orange), Molletes (bread with beans, cheese and veggies) and Churros (a fried snack). Other than these, you can always please your tummy with popular Mexican food, such as tacos, tortillas, tamales, etc.
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