How to Get to Playa del Carmen
Playa del Carmen does not have its own airport. Nearly everyone arrives via Cancún International Airport (CUN), which sits about 55 kilometres north of Playa. The journey from the airport to Playa del Carmen takes between 45 minutes and an hour, depending on traffic and your mode of transport. There are several ways to make this trip, each with different trade-offs between cost, convenience, and comfort.
ADO Bus from Cancún Airport
The ADO bus is the most affordable way to get from the airport to Playa del Carmen. Buses depart from outside the arrivals hall at both Terminal 2 and Terminal 4. The journey takes approximately one hour and costs around 250-300 pesos (roughly $15 USD). Buses are air-conditioned, comfortable, and run frequently throughout the day and evening.
You can buy tickets at the ADO counter inside the terminal or online in advance. The bus drops you at the ADO station on 5th Avenue in the centre of Playa, from where most hotels are a short taxi ride or walk away.
Shared Shuttles
Shared shuttles are a step up from the bus in terms of convenience. Several companies operate van services from the airport that drop passengers at their hotels. The cost is typically $25-40 USD per person. You share the van with other passengers being dropped at different locations, so the journey may take longer than a direct transfer. Book in advance online for the best rates.
Private Transfers
If you want door-to-door service without sharing, private transfers are available from $60-90 USD for up to four passengers. These are comfortable, air-conditioned SUVs or vans with a driver waiting for you in the arrivals hall holding a sign with your name. For families or groups, this often works out cheaper per person than individual shuttle tickets.
Taxis from the Airport
Official airport taxis operate on a fixed-price zone system. The fare from Cancún airport to Playa del Carmen is typically $60-80 USD. Only use official airport taxis from the authorised taxi stand — do not accept rides from people approaching you inside the terminal. The prices are non-negotiable and posted at the taxi stand.
Rental Cars
Renting a car gives you complete freedom to explore the Riviera Maya at your own pace. All major international and local rental companies have desks at Cancún airport. Expect to pay $25-50 USD per day depending on the vehicle and season. Driving in Mexico is straightforward on the main highways, though toll roads between Cancún and Playa cost around 200 pesos each way.
Be aware that some rental companies will aggressively push insurance upgrades. If your credit card or travel insurance already provides rental car coverage, you may not need the extra insurance, but verify this before your trip. Always photograph the car thoroughly before driving off.
Getting Around Playa del Carmen
On Foot
Playa del Carmen’s town centre is very walkable. The main tourist areas — 5th Avenue, the beach, the ferry terminal — are all within a 20-minute walk of each other. Most visitors find they rarely need transport within the town itself.
Colectivos
Colectivos are shared minivans that run fixed routes along the main roads. They are the cheapest way to get around and between towns along the Riviera Maya. The main route runs between Cancún and Tulum, stopping at Playa del Carmen and every town in between. The fare from Playa to Tulum is around 45-50 pesos. To catch one, simply stand on the side of the highway and wave one down. Pay the driver in cash when you board. Tell the driver where you want to get off — they will stop anywhere along the route.
Taxis
Taxis in Playa del Carmen do not use meters. Fares are based on zones and should be agreed before you get in. A ride within the town centre typically costs 40-80 pesos. From the centre to Playacar, expect 50-80 pesos. Always confirm the price before the journey. Taxi drivers generally do not accept credit cards — carry small bills in pesos.
Bicycle Rental
Cycling is a popular way to get around, especially along the beachfront. Several shops rent bicycles by the day or week, typically for 150-250 pesos per day. The town is flat and mostly bike-friendly, though some roads can be busy.
The Ferry to Cozumel
The ferry to Cozumel departs from the terminal at the southern end of 5th Avenue. Two companies operate the route — Ultramar and Winjet. The crossing takes about 45 minutes and costs around 220-250 pesos each way. Ferries run frequently from early morning until late evening. You can buy tickets at the terminal or online. If you plan to take a day trip to Cozumel, the first morning ferry gives you the most time on the island.
For safety tips and practical information about money, tipping, and health, visit our Safety & Practicalities guide.