Weekend in Cancun

The main public square in central Cancun, popular with locals. It has a central gazebo, a playground, and food stalls selling antojitos (street snacks)—tacos, elotes, marquesitas.

Tip: Go around 6pm when the vendors set up—marquesitas (crispy rolled crepes with cheese and Nutella) are a must-try for 20 pesos. Sit on a bench and watch the families.

A traditional Mexican market with dozens of stalls selling handmade crafts, hammocks, silver jewellery, T-shirts, and souvenirs. It's less touristy than the Hotel Zone mall shops a

Tip: Start at the food court area—order a cochinita pibil taco (slow-roasted pork) for about 15 pesos. For shopping, bargain to 50% of the first price quoted, and pay in cash for better deals. Arrive after 10am when everything opens.

A clean public beach at the southern end of the Hotel Zone with calm turquoise water and fine white sand. Lifeguards are on duty, and the large 'Cancun' sign makes for a good photo. No restaurants or

Tip: Go early (before 9am) to claim a spot under a palapa—there's very little shade otherwise. The waves can be strong in the afternoon.

A modern archaeological museum housing over 400 Mayan artefacts from the Yucatán region, including pieces from nearby sites like Tulum and Chichén Itzá. The permanent exhibition is well-lit and air-co

Tip: The museum is inside the Hotel Zone near the convention centre—combine it with a walk through the adjoining San Miguelito ruins (same ticket, no extra cost). Allow 90 minutes.

A small but significant Mayan ruin site just north of Cancun city centre, overlooking the lagoon. It features a 12-metre-tall pyramid (one of the tallest on the coast) and several other structures. Ve

Tip: Take a colectivo from downtown (marked 'Puerto Juárez')—it drops you at the entrance. Bring insect repellent and water; there's no shade on the site. Arrive before 11am to avoid the heat.