Which is nicer, Cancun or Playa del Carmen?
Choosing between Cancun and Playa del Carmen for your next holiday can be a daunting task, each destination has its own unique experiences and sights. Through this blog, the differences and similarities between both tourist hubs will be illustrated, to allow you to identify which one is the best fit for your vacation style.
Cancun versus Playa del Carmen: An in-depth guide
Cancun, Mexico — Home to wild nightlife, a long hotel zone and beautiful beaches. It was built as a tourist destination in the 1970s and as a result has a somewhat more commercial feel. There are many all-inclusive resorts, restaurants and entertainment options in the hotel zone. This is a buzzing area, best suited for adventurous travelers seeking convenience.
Playa del Carmen, on the other hand, has a calmer beach town atmosphere. Although it has witnessed considerable growth, it has a friendly neighborhood vibe with its pedestrian-friendly avenues and small shops. Playa del Carmen is a favorite spot for those who want a little more excitement along with rest. Its closeness to attractions like Tulum and Cozumel makes it a smart base from which to explore the region.
Atmosphere and Vibe
The differences between the atmosphere of Cancun and Playa del Carmen are very noticeable. Cancun is well known for its nightlife and party scene and attracts families, spring breakers, and tourists from all over the planet. The bar and club line up on the Hotel Zone is filled with places for people who want to party their vacation away.
Playa del Carmen, meanwhile, has a more relaxed vibe. Quinta Avenida, a busy street lined with cafes, shops and restaurants serving delicious local fare, is the heart of the town. Here, visitors can saunter leisurely, while absorbing the lively atmosphere — but without being overwhelmed by crowds. This is what makes Playa del Carmen so appealing to people looking for a quieter experience.
Activities Available
The destinations have a good selection of things to do depending on your interests:
Cancun:
Snorkeling and jet skiing (water sports)
Day trips to Isla Mujeres.
Opportunities for shopping in luxury malls like the Plaza la Isla.
International DJs at nightclubs.
Playa del Carmen:
Gorgeous swimming and diving cenotes at your disposal.
Distance from archaeological sites such as Tulum.
Nature tours of the local wildlife.
An array of beach clubs where you can relax by the ocean.
Cancun offers extensive nightlife and shopping options, while Playa del Carmen wins for cultural experiences and natural beauty.
Accommodations
The range of accommodation is quite different between the two sites. The Hotel Zone in Cancun predominantly features huge, all-inclusive resorts designed for tourists. These hotels generally have everything one requires for a comfortable stay under one roof.
On the flip side, Playa del Carmen has more options for accommodation, from boutique hotels to hostels and vacation rentals. Many of the options are also within walking distance to the beach or downtown area, making it very easy for guests to experience the local culture.
Accessibility
It is more difficult to get around Cancun because the Hotel Zone has heavy traffic. Visitors tend to taxi or bus between attractions. Playa del Carmen, by contrast, is far more pedestrian-friendly, and most guests simply stroll or rent bikes to take in their surroundings.
Cancun is about an hour’s drive from Playa del Carmen, so it’s possible to do both during your trip. So if you’re thinking about moving to either one and moving in Mexico, services such as Mudanzas en CDMX can help you out with your logistics with ease.
Personal Travel Preferences
Ultimately, the decision whether to visit Cancun or Playa del Carmen will come down to your taste as a traveler. If an action-packed getaway with several nightlife choices is what you’re after, Cancun might just offer the biggest bang for your bucks. If you want to take things easier without missing out on cultural experiences, Playa del Carmen might be the winner.
Whether you set your sights on one or the other, both are famed for their beautiful beaches, so whatever you choose, you'll have an unforgettable holiday. If you end up moving around Mexico after your vacation or are in the process of organizing another trip only to find yourself back in the home you left, you can use Mudanzas en CDMX for a hassle-free move.
By making a pros-and-cons list of each site based on what you want most in your vacation — whether it is nightlife, or serenity — you will be more equipped to make a choice that guarantees your escape is the trip of your fantasies.
