Se hva du kan gjøre og oppleve i Cancún

A visit to Cancún is not complete without a trip to the famous Mayan ruins. Many of them have not yet been excavated and are waiting to be explored. Chichen Itzá, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, is an absolute must. Whilst you are there, don’t miss out on the stunning light show that transports you back in time in a spectacular atmosphere. Equally stunning is Cobá, currently the only ruin that can still be climbed, offering a breathtaking view over the jungle and Tulúm, with its spectacular backdrop of the clear turquoise water of the ocean.

Is swimming with dolphins a dream for you? Then make it a reality at the Dolphinaris Cancún. Here, you get to interact with these beautiful and smart creatures, become a trainer for a day, or take a day to follow the daily routines in a dolphin's life. An unforgettable experience for both the kids and the grownups.

Cenotes (sinkholes) are deep wells with crystal clear water that can be accessed when the roof of a cave collapses. Fed by underground rivers, the cenotes were the main source of freshwater for the Mayans and therefore are considered sacred. They are unique to the Yucatán peninsula, and still to this day, the underground cave system connecting all the cenotes remains largely unexplored. Witnessing the breathtaking beauty of the large clusters of stalactites and stalagmites being mirrored in the crystal clear cool waters is a unique experience. Every cenote has its own particular beauty, and putting on a swimsuit and snorkelling in the pool is an absolutely unforgettable experience. Some tour operators also offer cave diving excursions for very experienced divers.

Most hotels in the Hotel Zone or Zona Hotelera are located directly on Cancún's beautiful beach. The Hotel Zone itself is divided into kilometre-long sections, which make it easy to navigate. The heart of the area is undoubtedly Cancún's famous buzzing party zone (km 8), where the bars and nightclubs draw both young and old crowds until the early morning hours. The party also attracts performing and visiting celebrities so you'll never know who you might be rubbing shoulders with.

A 20-minute boat ride from Cancún lies the small island of Isla Mujeres with its laid back Caribbean ambience, tiny streets lined with stalls and street cafes in pastel-coloured houses. Golf carts and mopeds dominate the streets, and although the island is only 5 miles long and half a mile wide, it still offers plenty of things to do and see. Everything from a beautiful palm-fringed white beach on the north coast to a dramatic rocky shoreline on the eastern side to a sea turtle sanctuary and the remains of a Mayan temple at the southern tip. If you're into adventure, then you should visit the Garrafon Reef Park & Beach Club, where you can go zip-lining, snorkelling, and kayaking. Lastly, a must-visit for nature and wildlife lovers is a tour to Isla Contoy, a nature reserve only inhabited by a few biologists and restricted to 200 visitors per day.

If you are looking for a great family day out, don’t forget to visit the eco-parks of Xel Há or Xcarét. With shows and adventures set in stunning lush tropical vegetation with exotic wildlife, these parks offer a truly wonderful entertaining, educational, and fun day out for the young and old alike. For the slightly more energetic and adventurous, try one of the exciting eco-tours which will make you feel like a true explorer.

The lively and friendly atmosphere of Parque de las Palapas is worth a visit, especially on the weekend evenings. Watch a local performance on the open-air stage, browse around the artisan stalls, visit one of the bars and cafes around the park, or just come here to observe and soak in the atmosphere. Just across the adjacent car park, next to the church, you will find the so-called "Hippie Park" offering hand-made jewellery, lamps, and tie-dyed clothing.

Puerto Cancún is a mixture of residential, commercial, and tourist areas. An 800-acre upscale development next to the ocean featuring a large marina, a golf course, a waterside promenade with a luxurious outdoor shopping complex, eateries and cafes, as well as hotels.

To fully appreciate the beauty of Cancún and its surrounding area, do ride the 360° rotating scenic tower where you will get a spectacular birds-eye view of the entire Hotel Zone and beyond from the 100-metre tall tower. A different experience during the day and night time, the view is unsurpassed.

Mexican folklore dance shows and plays are advertised at the theatre and at hotel concierges, where you also buy tickets. Discover one of Cancún’s little treasures, the Mexican Folk Art Museum brimming with excellent examples of Mexican folk art and crafts. You can experience the traditions and culture of Mexico at the Xcaret Park, which offers an incredible show with advanced technology, amazing costumes, and an impeccable set design.

Downtown (El Centro) is the actual backbone of Cancún. What it lacks in history, it makes up for being a true melting pot--an exciting mix of the old traditional Mexico and an ultra-modern urban sprawl. Avenida Tulum, the main street, passing through the heart of the city, is easy to reach by public transport. The street is lined with shops, banks, internet cafes, bars, and restaurants. Be sure to stop by Parque de las Palapas, on the market square, where locals come to chat and watch the entertainment provided by various local groups. The lively atmosphere and the sound of Mexican music is infectious, and any worries will quickly be postponed to "mañana". Browse around the artisan stalls and try some of the local sweet delicacies or visit the "Hippie Market" around the corner. In the evenings, the place to be is Avenida Yaxchillan with its lively restaurants and bars, popular with locals and tourists alike.

What better way to enjoy water sports than in the warm, crystal clear turquoise waters of Cancún? Whether you choose to go swimming, sailing, kayaking, windsurfing, kite sailing, jet-skiing, parasailing, diving, or snorkelling along the second largest reef in the world, you will not be disappointed. Maybe you prefer to stay on the surface and experience the thrill of deep-sea fishing or just relax on a sunset cruise--there is literally no water sport imaginable that you won’t find here. Aspiring and advanced divers should not miss a dive in the famous diving paradise of Cozumel. Another must is the popular jungle tour through the nature reserve of the Nichupte Lagoon where you can be a captain of your own boat. For more information on tours and activities, visit the Aquaworld website:

Unlike most aquariums, at the Interactive Aquarium of Cancún, you will get a chance to get up close to sea creatures and even interact with some of them. Here, you can touch starfish and sea urchins, swim with dolphins or watch them put on a show, and even walk underwater. There are over 140 species on display here and the Aquarium is open 365 days a year.

Do you dare to swim with these ocean giants? From around May to September, sharks appear close enough to the coast of Cancún, and several tour operators let you observe them and even swim and snorkel with them (all safety precautions, naturally, in place).

A paradise for golfing enthusiasts of all abilities, Cancún is a golfing Mecca. The 10 top quality 18 hole golf courses in the area are all created by world-class designers such as Jack Nicklaus, Greg Norman, and P.B. Dye to name a few. Be sure to make your reservation in advance!

Come for the view, stay for the food! Right on the bayside at La Isla Cancun Shopping Village, La Pizzarra offers Neapolitan style pizza, wine, and pasta in a beautiful and romantic location that gets even more spectacular around sunset.

Located in the Hotel NYX, Unami is a Japanese style restaurant with a hibachi table, where you share seating with other diners while a chef cooks right in front of you. But if you wish to have a more private dining experience, they also have separate dining tables. The food here is rated among the best in Cancún, and to ensure you will have a memorable night, the chefs at Umami put on a show, perform some tricks, and show off their amazing knife skills. On top of that, you've got a beautiful ocean view and impeccable service. So, be sure to book ahead!

Picturesque bar and restaurant serving authentic Mexican dishes from around the country, especially the Maya area, as well as an expansive assortment of tequilas and Mexican craft beers. Plus, a mariachi band to bring the entire experience together.

Vibrant Mexican restaurant in downtown Cancún serving a large selection of Mexican seafood and meat dishes accompanied by a Mariachi band and skilful waiters--some of them can even carry stacked cocktails on their heads without dropping them. The portions at La Parrilla are generous, and the food is quite tasty, but this place does tend to get busy and very loud, so if you're in the mood for a quiet evening dinner, consider going somewhere else.

A hidden gem in Cancún's Hotel Zone, La Palapa Belga offers traditional French and Belgian specialities in a gorgeous and romantic location overlooking the lagoon. Plus, friendly and welcoming staff and reasonable prices. The mussels served in a cooking pot come highly recommended.

Tucked away from the busy streets of Cancún, La Troje is a quaint restaurant with outdoor seating specialising in Italian cuisine. On the menu, homemade pasta, pizzas, and crepes, as well as meat and fish dishes, and an extensive and quite popular salad menu. Plus, substantial dessert offerings with many homemade classics like tiramisu.

Consistently rated as one of the top restaurants in Cancún, La Dolce Vita serves fresh seafood, homemade pasta, pizza, and Italian desserts in a warm and welcoming setting with a garden terrace. The food here is outstanding, the wine list exquisite, and the service impeccable.

Small and intimate restaurant serving fresh, flavourful, and creative seafood, steaks, and international dishes in a low-lit setting. Do not leave without trying the chef's coffee and their signature key lime pie.

Bovino's Churrascaria is a high-end all-you-can-eat Brazilian-inspired steak house serving Brazillian barbeque on skewers that is carved tableside, as well as an extensive buffet of side dishes and salads--a true meat lovers paradise.

Spacious Argentinean restaurant serving Prime quality cuts, seafood dishes, and a great selection of wines in a beautiful setting. At Puerto Madero, the food presentation is wonderful, and so are the service and the lovely waterfront views. Be sure to save some room for their mouth-watering desserts.

In this traditional Thai style establishment, every table setting consists of an individual stylish palapa with its own unique table and sofa, giving the restaurant a serene and elegant ambience. Enhancing the experience is dolphins swimming gracefully on one side and a fantastic view over the lagoon on the other. Classic Thai specialities and Indian cuisine in an ultra-chic atmosphere.

Señor Frog's is both a fine dining establishment and an upbeat bar, combining a family-friendly atmosphere with events and parties that fear no rivals. Gratify your taste buds with delicious Mexican specialities or pop in at night, when the dance floor fills up with people, Señor Frog's is an unbeatable component of Cancún's nightlife.

Nestled amongst the shops at Forum By The Sea is Hard Rock Café, a perfect place to stop for lunch, dinner, a cold beer, or listen to live music. There is a bar and tables outside on a patio overlooking the beach and, of course, a chance to buy memorabilia from their collection.

Cafe Antoinette will charm you with its cosy French atmosphere, freshly baked baguettes, homemade quiches, and its exquisite macarons. All their products are prepared according to traditional practices and guarantee authentic flavours and a real feel of timeless Paris.

Cute little coffee shop in downtown Cancún dishing up morning staples, like waffles, omelette, and avocado toast, as well as paninis, salads, and bagels at lunchtime. The eggs Benedict with smoked salmon comes highly recommended.

Café Nader feels like the Mexican version of an American diner. So expect hearty meals such as enfrijoladas, tacos de barbacoa, and parrillada. It is a bit fancier than a regular cafe and therefore a bit more expensive. They serve breakfast, lunch, dinner and is a popular brunch place on Sundays. Café Nader is famous for its sweet bread, which is baked every 30 minutes in front of the customers, and as soon as they are ready, they will let you know by ringing a bell.

Providing a lovely and welcoming outdoor seating area and cosy interiors, Café con Gracia is a perfect gathering point for a coffee, a tea, a frappe, or some homemade baked goods. On the menu: bagels, paninis, waffles, desserts, and cuernitos--the Mexican version of a croissant.

Located at La Isla Shopping Village, Ah Cacao Chocolate Café is the perfect destination to regain strength after an intensive day of shopping or sightseeing. Indulge in homemade baked goods, such as chocolate brownies and cake accompanied by some refreshing iced coffee, tea, or lemonade.

Let some experienced guides take you to the hippest Cancún's bars and nightclubs and enjoy yourself with an open bar tab--you will have the chance to meet new people and discover new places from the viewpoint of a local.

Bar/restaurant in the middle of the Hotel Zone offering a great selection of drinks, tasty food--burgers, nachos, burritos, quesadillas, tacos, and skewers--as well as live music and karaoke nights. Great spot to drop by before hitting Cancún's nightclubs.

Coco Bongo is not your typical nightclub. Instead of a dance floor and DJ acts, the venue, which is “a combination of Cirque du Soleil, a concert, a theater, and a disco”, hosts musical performances by local artists impersonating famous singers and actors. Plus, dancers, trapeze artists, and gymnasts, all work to create an atmosphere of fun and enjoyment that audiences will remember for the rest of their lives.

Señor Frog's is both a fine dining establishment and an upbeat bar, combining a family-friendly atmosphere with events and parties that fear no rivals. Gratify your taste buds with delicious Mexican specialities or pop in at night, when the dance floor fills up with people, Señor Frog's is an unbeatable component of Cancún's nightlife.

The City is not only the largest but also one of the best nightclubs in Latin America. Boasting three levels that gather up to 6 thousand people, a 1,000,000-watt sound system, 650 sq. ft. of video screens, world-class acts, themed nights, foam parties, and a private beach club, The City is a guaranteed unforgettable night.

Picturesque bar and restaurant serving authentic Mexican dishes from around the country, especially the Maya area, as well as an expansive assortment of tequilas and Mexican craft beers. Plus, a mariachi band to bring the entire experience together.

Caribbean themed nightclub with live Latin music. Get your dancing shoes ready, the upbeat music and hip vibes of Mambo Cafe create a most-loved destination of Cancún's club scene, where to mingle and have fun.

In the heart of Cancun's Hotel Zone, Forum By The Sea offers visitors a little bit of everything, ranging from small shops with souvenirs and Mexican handicrafts to many restaurants and the best nightlife options in Cancún. In the surroundings of Plaza Forum, you will find the most popular bars and nightclubs in the city, such as Coco Bongo, Mandala, Hard Rock Cafe, and Señor Frog's.

Dady O's experienced DJs spin a mash-up of 80s, 90s, hip-hop, and dance tunes, paying homage to all styles and tastes. Boasting trendy interiors and showcasing laser effects, the nightclub is a major draw for tourists in Cancún.

Upscale spot for nightlife in Cancún, Mandala features great music (mostly electronic), bottle service, and an open-air, vibrant atmosphere, which is enhanced by a young and cosmopolitan crowd that fills the dance floor till the early hours.

Lively and intimate open-air venue playing all sorts of music and offering live DJs, lots of dancing, and drinks at reasonable prices. Join the conga line and get ready to socialize with tourists and locals.

A visit to Cancún is not complete without a trip to the famous Mayan ruins. Many of them have not yet been excavated and are waiting to be explored. Chichen Itzá, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, is an absolute must. Whilst you are there, don’t miss out on the stunning light show that transports you back in time in a spectacular atmosphere. Equally stunning is Cobá, currently the only ruin that can still be climbed, offering a breathtaking view over the jungle and Tulúm, with its spectacular backdrop of the clear turquoise water of the ocean.

Is swimming with dolphins a dream for you? Then make it a reality at the Dolphinaris Cancún. Here, you get to interact with these beautiful and smart creatures, become a trainer for a day, or take a day to follow the daily routines in a dolphin's life. An unforgettable experience for both the kids and the grownups.

Cenotes (sinkholes) are deep wells with crystal clear water that can be accessed when the roof of a cave collapses. Fed by underground rivers, the cenotes were the main source of freshwater for the Mayans and therefore are considered sacred. They are unique to the Yucatán peninsula, and still to this day, the underground cave system connecting all the cenotes remains largely unexplored. Witnessing the breathtaking beauty of the large clusters of stalactites and stalagmites being mirrored in the crystal clear cool waters is a unique experience. Every cenote has its own particular beauty, and putting on a swimsuit and snorkelling in the pool is an absolutely unforgettable experience. Some tour operators also offer cave diving excursions for very experienced divers.

Mercado 28 is the perfect destination to browse at the colourful stalls and get a glimpse of Mexican souvenirs and handicrafts. Vendors tend to be pushy, but with good haggling skills, you can find a comprehensive variety of products at reasonable prices, including pottery, clothes, and knickknacks.

A 20-minute boat ride from Cancún lies the small island of Isla Mujeres with its laid back Caribbean ambience, tiny streets lined with stalls and street cafes in pastel-coloured houses. Golf carts and mopeds dominate the streets, and although the island is only 5 miles long and half a mile wide, it still offers plenty of things to do and see. Everything from a beautiful palm-fringed white beach on the north coast to a dramatic rocky shoreline on the eastern side to a sea turtle sanctuary and the remains of a Mayan temple at the southern tip. If you're into adventure, then you should visit the Garrafon Reef Park & Beach Club, where you can go zip-lining, snorkelling, and kayaking. Lastly, a must-visit for nature and wildlife lovers is a tour to Isla Contoy, a nature reserve only inhabited by a few biologists and restricted to 200 visitors per day.

The lively and friendly atmosphere of Parque de las Palapas is worth a visit, especially on the weekend evenings. Watch a local performance on the open-air stage, browse around the artisan stalls, visit one of the bars and cafes around the park, or just come here to observe and soak in the atmosphere. Just across the adjacent car park, next to the church, you will find the so-called "Hippie Park" offering hand-made jewellery, lamps, and tie-dyed clothing.

To fully appreciate the beauty of Cancún and its surrounding area, do ride the 360° rotating scenic tower where you will get a spectacular birds-eye view of the entire Hotel Zone and beyond from the 100-metre tall tower. A different experience during the day and night time, the view is unsurpassed.

Mexican folklore dance shows and plays are advertised at the theatre and at hotel concierges, where you also buy tickets. Discover one of Cancún’s little treasures, the Mexican Folk Art Museum brimming with excellent examples of Mexican folk art and crafts. You can experience the traditions and culture of Mexico at the Xcaret Park, which offers an incredible show with advanced technology, amazing costumes, and an impeccable set design.

Downtown (El Centro) is the actual backbone of Cancún. What it lacks in history, it makes up for being a true melting pot--an exciting mix of the old traditional Mexico and an ultra-modern urban sprawl. Avenida Tulum, the main street, passing through the heart of the city, is easy to reach by public transport. The street is lined with shops, banks, internet cafes, bars, and restaurants. Be sure to stop by Parque de las Palapas, on the market square, where locals come to chat and watch the entertainment provided by various local groups. The lively atmosphere and the sound of Mexican music is infectious, and any worries will quickly be postponed to "mañana". Browse around the artisan stalls and try some of the local sweet delicacies or visit the "Hippie Market" around the corner. In the evenings, the place to be is Avenida Yaxchillan with its lively restaurants and bars, popular with locals and tourists alike.

Unlike most aquariums, at the Interactive Aquarium of Cancún, you will get a chance to get up close to sea creatures and even interact with some of them. Here, you can touch starfish and sea urchins, swim with dolphins or watch them put on a show, and even walk underwater. There are over 140 species on display here and the Aquarium is open 365 days a year.

La Isla Cancun Shopping Village is a lively, open-air shopping complex featuring shady alleys and pretty canals, showcasing a wide array of shops, restaurants, and attractions, including a Ferris wheel. Take a stroll down the quaint streets, browse at the shops renowned worldwide, or grab a bite to eat--La Isla is a pleasant shopper's paradise.

Kukulcan Plaza is renowned for its assortment of luxury shops and international names. Here you will also find some souvenir shops, local brands, and a few eateries. Kukulcan Plaza is a beautiful and modern mall right on the main street of the Hotel Zone. It boasts stunning architecture, including an elaborate Mayan stained-glass dome. It's here where the Luxury Avenue Boutique Mall is located, offering the most famous--and expensive--brands.

Plaza Las Americas is a huge shopping centre in downtown Cancún, and it has a diverse assortment of shops, eateries, and cafes. Connected to another big shopping mall, the whole complex features both large international brands as well as small shops owned by locals. Plus, a casino, a pharmacy, a cinema, and a few hotels.

Mercado 28 is the perfect destination to browse at the colourful stalls and get a glimpse of Mexican souvenirs and handicrafts. Vendors tend to be pushy, but with good haggling skills, you can find a comprehensive variety of products at reasonable prices, including pottery, clothes, and knickknacks.

With its touch of luxury shopping, Cancún turns into a most coveted holiday resort. The Luxury Avenue Boutique Mall boasts the most prestigious brands in beauty, fashion, jewellery, and watches in a luxurious environment and exclusive service.

Located 12 km from the Hotel Zone, Las Plazas Outlet is a partly outdoor and indoor shopping mall housing a cinema, lots of eateries, as well as several shops of internationally famous brands, such as Puma, Nike, Adidas, Lacoste, Hugo Boss, Guess, Calvin Klein, among others.

In the heart of Cancun's Hotel Zone, Forum By The Sea offers visitors a little bit of everything, ranging from small shops with souvenirs and Mexican handicrafts to many restaurants and the best nightlife options in Cancún. In the surroundings of Plaza Forum, you will find the most popular bars and nightclubs in the city, such as Coco Bongo, Mandala, Hard Rock Cafe, and Señor Frog's.

If you are looking to avoid holiday crowds and high prices, then the best time to visit Cancún is from May to November, particularly in September and October. However, these two are also the rainiest months. If you prefer escaping the cold winter to relax in the sun, book your trip in December or January, the high season in Cancún.

As of April 1 2021, international travellers that are 15 years or older visiting the Mexican state of Quintana Roo, where Cancún, Tulum, Playa del Carmen, and Cozumel are situated, are required to pay a tourist tax known as Visitax. This payment can be made before, during, or after your trip, but it must be paid before boarding your departure flight. At the time of writing, the Visitax costs $224 Mexican pesos (USD $11) per visitor. Once the payment is made, you will receive a QR Code that must be shown at the airport before leaving Mexico. Below is the official government website of Quintan Roo:

Visa exemption applies to citizens of all EU countries, most countries in the Americas, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, and more. Both tourists and business visitors from these countries may stay in Mexico for up to 180 days. For Russian, Turkish, and Ukrainian passport holders, electronic authorisation (SAE) is required, which then grants travellers from these countries the right of a single entry followed by a stay of up to 30 days. Please consult an official source/consulate in your home country for the latest information on visa requirements. When travelling to Mexico, you will need to fill out a Forma Migratoria Múltiple (FMM), which is essentially a visitor's permit for Mexico. All travellers are encouraged to do so online prior to travel and present the printed out document upon entering the country.

Cancún Airport International (CUN) is Latin America's 4th busiest airport. Located outside the city of Cancún at km 22 of the Cancún-Chetumal highway, the approximate transfer time to Cancún’s City or Hotel Zone is 20-30 mins. Buses, shuttles, private transfers, VIP vehicles, and limousines are available for pickup and every terminal has a designated taxi service available. A public modern air-conditioned bus service to Cancún’s central bus station is available outside Terminal 2.

Cancún's central bus station is located at the corner of Avenidas Tulum and Uxmal, offering excellent and regular connections to most touristic destinations. A regular shuttle transfer to Playa del Carmen leaves every 15-30 minutes. The frequent local bus service between the Hotel Zone and downtown Cancún (R-1 or R-2 buses) is quite efficient and runs 24 hours. Buses stop on hand signal and will often leave before everyone is seated; bus stops are marked with a blue and black sign with a picture of a bus. You can buy tickets on board but don't forget to check your change before taking your seat.

Taxis are a common mode of transport in Cancún and Mexico. Despite warnings to agree on a price before getting in, one should know that all taxi drivers belong to a syndicate, and there is an official fixed price list split into various zones that all taxi drivers must carry (also available in all hotels). Taxis in the Hotel Zone are more expensive than downtown, and a standing taxi always costs slightly more than one flagged down from the curb. A couple of alternatives are the Cancun Cab taxi service that serves all over Cancún and reserving a ride with Uber, which is back in the city following problems from the local taxi unions. Cancun Cab:

The postal service in Mexico is very slow and often not very reliable. Sending anything of importance or value is usually safer by courier service. Cancún’s main post office is located in the city centre where stamps or postcards can be found; mailboxes are red and easy to recognize.

There are two types of pharmacies in Mexico, the regular Farmacia and the Farmacia Similares. The former sells well-known brand medications whilst the latter sells cheaper non-branded medicines. Prescriptions are generally not required for anything, and most medicines are widely available. You can find a Farmacia on almost every corner within Cancún's downtown, with several located in the Hotel Zone. Many Farmacias are open 24 hours and offer a delivery service for a small surcharge.

Country code: +52 Area code for Cancún: 998 Please note that not all international mobile phones will work in Mexico and it is therefore best to check with respective providers beforehand to ensure service.

110 Volt. Hotels usually offer voltage converters for 220 Volt devices.