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Cancun is the Caribbean resort hub at the top of the Riviera Maya. Its hotel zone runs along a strip of white sand, and its airport is the region's main gateway. Cancun is 65 kilometres (40 miles) north of Playa del Carmen. The colectivo is the cheapest way to get from Playa del Carmen to Cancun at $2.60 (45 MXN). The bus costs more and takes about as long, and a private transfer is dearer again.
Distance from Playa Del Carmen to Cancun
Playa Del Carmen and Cancun are about 65 km (40 miles) apart, and the journey itself covers around 67 km by road. Depending on the option, the trip takes between 45m and 2h.
4 ways to travel from Playa Del Carmen to Cancun
There are four ways to travel from Playa del Carmen to Cancun. You can choose between the colectivo, bus, minivan, and private transport. The journey takes 45m–1h 30m and the quickest way is by minivan. If you're on a budget, the cheapest option is by colectivo with tickets starting at $2.60 (45 MXN).
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Playa del Carmen to Cancun by Colectivo
Colectivos are the cheapest option to travel from Playa Del Carmen to Cancun.
Because they are used mostly by local workers and not by tourists, they don’t have any space for luggage. Therefore, they are a good option only for day trips to Cancun or if you are travelling with just hand luggage.
The average rate to Cancun is $2.60 (45 MXN), but can go higher during peak season (December to April). You can buy your tickets directly from the driver.
Which Colectivo company to choose?
Two colectivo companies operate on this route: Playa Express and Colectivos Foráneos. Both run every 15 minutes or whenever the vehicle is full.
- Playa Express has more spacious vehicles with working AC, making for a more comfortable ride.
- Colectivos Foráneos operates 24 hours but may not be as comfortable as Playa Express.
Where to find the Colectivos from Playa Del Carmen to Cancun?
Playa Express and Colectivos Foraneos depart from the main colectivo bus stop in Playa del Carmen’s main tourist area.
The colectivos park at Avenida Tulum in Cancun city centre. Unlike buses, you can get off before this stop if your accommodation is on the way.
Playa del Carmen to Cancun by Bus
The bus is an affordable way to get from Playa Del Carmen to Cancun.
ADO, Mexico’s most popular bus company, is the only company operating this route. It offers comfortable, air-conditioned buses with reclining seats and onboard restrooms. For this route, you can book Primera Clase or TLLD. See our Mexico Bus Guide for the differences between ADO’s bus types.
Bus ticket prices start at $6.10 (105 MXN) and travel time takes 55m - 2h.
Departure and arrival station
ADO buses depart from two bus terminals in downtown Playa del Carmen: Turistica and Alterna. Turistica is the main bus station and all buses officially leave from there. But if you book a seat from Alterna, the bus will stop there to pick you up.
Coming from Xcaret Park? Some ADO buses stop there too! When booking your ticket online, double-check which station you’re departing from to avoid any last-minute confusion.
All buses arrive at ADO Bus Station, just within walking distance from most hotels in downtown Cancun. But if you’re staying in the Hotel Zone, you can take a taxi for around $11 (200 MXN). You can also take a bus (R-1, R-3 or R-38) from Avenida Tulum to the beach area. The rate for the buses is $0.70 (12 MXN) to be paid directly to the bus driver.
Bus options from Playa del Carmen to Cancun City Centre
Bus tickets are available on Bookaway.
Bus Option 2
If you're heading straight to Cancun Airport, the ADO Aeropuerto bus is the cheapest transfer option. You can catch it from the Alterna Bus Terminal in Playa del Carmen's town centre.
Ticket prices start at $13 (230 MXN) when booked online through BookAway. Prices are a bit lower at the terminal, but seats aren’t guaranteed.
Bus tickets are available on Bookaway.
Playa del Carmen to Cancun by Shared Minivan
If you're heading straight to Cancun Airport and want to skip the hassle of bus terminals, shared minivans are a convenient option. They’ll pick you up right from your hotel, so you don’t have to worry about getting to a minivan station.
This service is offered by four minivan companies: Chiquila Holbox Extreme, Mexico Travel Solutions, BD Experience Mexico and Cancun Shuttle.
Tickets cost $7.90 (140 MXN), and the journey takes around 45m - 1h 50m, depending on how many stops are made along the way.
This shared shuttle service is best booked online so you won’t have to visit their physical office just to buy a ticket.
Shared Minivan schedule from Playa Del Carmen to Cancun
Shared Minivan tickets are available on Bookaway.
Booking Tip
PRO TIP: When booking a minivan to Cancun Airport, leave Playa del Carmen at least 5 hours before your flight. This gives you enough time to handle traffic, roadworks or unexpected stops along the way. Better safe than having to rush at the last minute!
Playa del Carmen to Cancun by Private Transport
A private transfer from Playa Del Carmen to Cancun is the easiest and most convenient option. The journey takes 45m - 1h 30m, and you’ll be dropped off right at your accommodation — no need to worry about extra transfers.
Prices for private transfer start at $58 (1,010 MXN) for a 7-seater. Split it with your group, and it’s about $8.20 (145 MXN) each.
You can also hail a taxi from the street, but keep in mind that taxis in Playa del Carmen are not metered. Make sure to agree on a rate before getting in.
PRO TIP: Taxi drivers in taxi stands charge more than those you can hail from the street. Also, it will be cheaper if you can find a taxi away from the tourist area at 5th Avenue.
Private Transport options from Playa del Carmen to Cancun City Centre
Private transport tickets are available on Bookaway.
Private Option 2
If you're flying out of Cancun International Airport, you can book a private transfer from Playa del Carmen.
Many companies offer this service, picking you up directly from your accommodation for a quicker and more convenient ride. Rates start from $58 (1,010 MXN) when you book online through BookAway.
Private transport tickets are available on Bookaway.
Our favourite places to stay in Cancun
Here are our favourite places to stay in Cancun for every budget.
Sina Suites
Resorts in Cancun can cost you a bomb! Sina Suites gives you that resort-style feel without the high prices. Ever wanted your own private marina in a hotel? No? Well now you probably do, and Sina Suites has one. It also has a large swimming pool set amongst gardens that overlook the lagoon.
Every day, enjoy a continental breakfast and delicious Mexican food in their poolside restaurant/bar that sits underneath a traditional thatched hut! You’ll also get more than just a room here, most suites also offer a kitchenette and balcony.
- Views overlooking Cancun lagoon
- Outdoor swimming pool
- Bar and restaurant
- Great location
Double rooms start from $80 per night
Mid-RangeViento Suites
Viento Suites is an escape from the busy and hectic Cancun. Once you’re inside the walls of this hotel, chilling in the garden beside the swimming pool, you’ll forget about the outside world.
The location couldn’t be more perfect. It’s situated within Downtown Cancun, but also very close to the Hotel Zone and beaches. The rooms look like those found in a high-class hotel, but without the extortionate prices.
- Outdoor swimming pool
- BBQ facilities
- Great location
- Clean and spacious rooms
Double rooms between $40-$80 per night
BudgetYellow Capsule Hotel
Looking for a unique sleeping experience? The Yellow Capsule Hotel will definitely give you that. Instead of traditional rooms, you sleep in a pod. You’ll feel like you’ve been transported to the future when you clamber into your bright and spacious pod.
The capsules are clean and include everything you need for a comfy stay, a mirror, outlets, a safe and storage space. When you’re done hanging around in your pod, you can chill at the hotel’s terrace and enjoy their free breakfast.
- Cool capsule sleeping experience
- Friendly and helpful staff
- Great location
- Delicious breakfast included
Double rooms between $15-$40 per night
BudgetEstancia Tulbayab 36
If you’re looking for a more homely feel than a to hotel, then definitely stay at Estancia. The owners will instantly make you feel welcome and are always there to offer advice.
The homestay offers a very convenient location, close to the local markets and not too far from the ADO bus station. The rooms are clean and spacious, plus a steal for the price. If you fancy doing some cooking whilst in Cancun, you can make use of the communal kitchen.
- Great location
- Clean and spacious rooms
- Helpful and friendly hosts
- You’ll feel at home
Double rooms between $15-$40 per night
ABOUT YOUR DESTINATION
Why Visit Cancun?
Cancun is a vibrant beach city overlooking the Caribbean Sea. With its crystal blue waters and snow-white sand, the city can be too touristy for some visitors. But its location on Mexico’s east coast makes it the perfect gateway to other destinations like Chichen Itza, Isla Mujeres and Holbox.
You’ll find most tourists in the Hotel Zone, which is full to the brim with all-inclusive resorts, restaurants and lively bars. Depending on what you’re looking for, Cancun can just be a short stopover or a holiday destination by itself. Whichever you decide, make sure to explore other nearby destinations for a more authentic Mexican experience!
Rounding it up
That's the full picture for getting from Playa Del Carmen to Cancun, roughly 65 kilometres (40 miles) apart. In all, there are 4 ways to make the trip. The cheapest fare is $2.60 (45 MXN). The quickest trip takes 45m.
Prices and timetables change, so it's worth a quick check before you travel. Have a question, or travelled this route recently? Ask the community below and we'll do our best to help.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the distance from Playa Del Carmen to Cancun?
The distance from Playa Del Carmen to Cancun is 65 kilometres (40 miles).
What is the fastest way to get from Playa Del Carmen to Cancun?
Journey times from Playa Del Carmen to Cancun overlap: colectivo 1.5 hours, bus 55m - 2h, shared minivan 45m - 1h 50m, private transport 45m - 1h 30m. Depending on the departure, no single option is always the fastest.
What is the cheapest way to get from Playa Del Carmen to Cancun?
The cheapest way to get from Playa Del Carmen to Cancun is by colectivo with ticket costs starting from 45 MXN.
Can you rent a car from Playa del Carmen to Cancun?
About the Authors
Founder & Trip Planning Expert
Based in Bali, Maarten's passion for travel is undeniable. In 2016, he decided to quit his job as a stock analyst and started doing what he always dreamed of: travelling through South East Asia and helping other people plan their trips. When he is not working on Gecko Routes, you'll find him surfing in the ocean or exploring the best gems of Indonesia.
Senior Travel Writer
Ela is a storyteller, content producer, solo traveller and a mermaid-in-training. When she's not in front of her laptop, you will find her barefoot and living her best tan on some island in the Philippines. Or exploring the depths of its seas as a budding freediver. An island girl at heart, she'll be happy anywhere there is sea, sand, sun and coffee.
Travel Writer
Selene is a writer who loves coffee, travel, and planning. After spending a decade in Manila, she left the city and her career in banking to embrace a more laid-back lifestyle. Now, she is discovering the beauty of slow-paced travel and finding joy in meaningful experiences.
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