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Cancun is Mexico's biggest Caribbean resort city, 125 kilometres (78 miles) up the coast from Tulum. It's also the region's main international gateway. The private transfer is the quickest way to get from Tulum to Cancun, taking 1h 35m - 2h 30m. The colectivo is the cheapest at $5.40 (95 MXN), and a shared minivan costs more at $23 (395 MXN).
Distance from Tulum to Cancun
Tulum and Cancun are about 125 km (78 miles) apart, and the journey itself covers around 129 km by road. The quickest way to get from Tulum to Cancun is by taking the private transport, which takes around 1h 35m - 2h 30m.
4 ways to travel from Tulum to Cancun
There are four ways to travel from Tulum to Cancun. You can choose between the bus, colectivo, minivan, and private transport. The journey takes 1h 35m–2h 35m and the quickest way is by private transport. If you're on a budget, the cheapest option is by colectivo with tickets starting at $5.40 (95 MXN).
2 legs — see itinerary
- Tulum→Bus, Centro10m
- ADO, Terminal→ADO Conecta Aeropuerto, Airport15m
2 legs — see itinerary
- Colectivo from Tulum to Playa del Carmen1h 30m
- Colectivo from Playa del Carmen to Cancun1h
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Tulum to Cancun by Bus
The bus is a good mix of convenience and affordability when travelling from Tulum to Cancun. Travel time is about 2h 35m - 4h 10m. Prices start from $33 (575 MXN).
You can choose from four buses operating on this route: ADO, ADO Aeropuerto, AU (Autobuses Unidos) and ADO Primera.
Step 1: How to get to Tulum Bus Station
ADO Tulum Bus Station (Terminal Autobuses Tulum ADO) is located in the centre of town. This makes it easily accessible by foot, or by taxi if you’re staying slightly further away or in one of the beach areas.
A good average rate for a ride from the beach areas to the bus terminal is around $17 (300 MXN). Keep in mind that taxis in Tulum are not metered, and they're known for their inflated rates. It's best to agree on the rate before getting in.
Step 2: Bus from Tulum to Cancun
ADO and AU are the bus companies operating on this route. ADO offers a more comfortable ride with better seats and onboard toilets, while AU is the cheaper option with simpler buses and no restrooms. Check out our Mexico transport guide for a full comparison of their bus types and amenities.
A bus ticket from Tulum to Cancun costs $16 (275 MXN) and the journey takes around 2h 20m - 3h 45m.
Bus tickets are available on Bookaway.
You can buy your tickets at ADO Bus Station, but we recommend booking them online via BookAway at least a day before to secure a seat.
When booking, it’s important to pay attention to the departure and arrival points. Some Tulum buses depart from the archaeological site instead of the city centre where you may be located.
Day trip from Tulum to Cancun by Bus
Not a fan of big cities like Cancun? Although we don’t recommend cutting your visit so short, it’s possible. Taking the bus, you can travel round trip between Tulum and Cancun in just one day. Just note that unless you take the earliest morning trip, you can only spend around 6 hours in this vibrant city.
If you really must travel round-trip, we suggest that you at least spend a night in Cancun before going back to Tulum.
Bus Option 1
You can also get a direct bus from Tulum to Cancun International Airport with ADO.
Buses leave from Terminal Autobuses Tulum ADO. You can buy your ticket directly at the bus station or book it online through BookAway. Prices start at $26 (445 MXN).
Bus tickets are available on Bookaway.
Step 3: Cancun Bus Station to City Centre
Buses stop at ADO Cancun Bus Station, conveniently located in downtown Cancun, with many hotels and hostels located close by or just a few blocks away.
But if you are staying outside the city centre, or in Cancun's Hotel Zone, you will have to take a taxi to reach your destination. Taxis are available from outside of the bus station and are metered, so rates will depend on the distance and time. An average ride to the beach area costs around $11 (200 MXN).
Another option is to use public transport. Buses pass in front of the bus terminal on Avenida Tulum and lines R-1 and R-2 connect the bus stop with the beach and hotel area. A bus ticket costs $0.70 (13 MXN), to be paid directly to the bus driver.
Tulum to Cancun by Colectivo
There used to be direct colectivo trips between Tulum and Cancun. But the last time we checked (November 2025), only indirect colectivo trips are available. You’ll have to make a transfer at Playa del Carmen.
Although the extra transfer can be a bit of a hassle, taking the indirect colectivo lets you travel more like a local — and it’s incredibly budget-friendly. Prices may go up during peak tourist season, but the combined ticket still costs around $5.40 (95 MXN), and can be paid directly to the driver.
If you prefer to have this indirect colectivo experience, read on for a step-by-step guide!
Step 1: Colectivo from Tulum to Playa del Carmen
You'll find colectivos to Playa del Carmen at Tulum Colectivo Station in the city centre. Don't mistake this for the colectivo station to Coba, which is also along the same highway, 1.5 km away.
Colectivo Foraneos is the sole operator for colectivos on the Tulum to Cancun route. A seat costs around $2.90 (50 MXN).
Step 2: Colectivo from Playa del Carmen to Cancun
When you arrive in Playa del Carmen, simply get off at the last stop at Playa del Carmen Colectivo Station. Here, you will find colectivos bound for Cancun, operated by the same company Colectivo Foraneos.
For more comfort, another company that runs on this route is Playa Express. They use Mercedes vans, which are larger and more comfortable than the classic colectivos. You’ll find them at Playa Express Terminal, just a short walk from Playa del Carmen Colectivo Station.
The ride to Cancun takes 1h - 1h 30m and costs around $2.60 (45 MXN). If you're taking Playa Express, expect to pay a bit more at $3.10 (55 MXN).
The last stop is at Cancun Colectivo Station in the city centre, near ADO Bus Terminal. Unlike buses, you can get off before the last stop if your accommodation is on the way.
Tulum to Cancun by Shared Minivan
Shared minivans are a direct way to travel from Tulum to Cancun. They’re a bit pricier than the bus, but if your accommodation's far from the bus terminal, it could save you some cash on taxis.
Travel time is around 2h 30m - 3h 30m and a ticket costs $23 (395 MXN).
Tulum to Cancun
Minivan tickets are available on Bookaway.
Minivan Option 2
Heading straight to Cancun Airport? Some minivans offer pickup at any hotel within Tulum's Hotel Zone and drop passengers off at Cancun International Airport.
Minivan fares start from $31 (535 MXN) and travel time is about 3h 30m.
Keep in mind that this minivan service terminates at Cancun Airport. If you’re heading to Cancun’s Hotel Zone, you’ll need to take a taxi, with fares starting at $38 (665 MXN). Alternatively, you can take an ADO bus to the city centre for $6.00 (105 MXN), then hop on a second bus or grab a taxi to the beach and hotel area.
Minivan tickets are available on Bookaway.
Tulum to Cancun by Private Transport
Prices for private transfer start at $195 (3,410 MXN) for a 3-seater. Split it with your group, and it’s about $30 (520 MXN) each.
IMPORTANT: When booking your ride online, make sure you pick one that’s heading to either downtown Cancun or the Hotel Zone, wherever you’re staying. Fares for private cars from Tulum to Cancun Airport are cheaper and may look tempting, but keep in mind that the airport is still 20 minutes away from Cancun’s tourist area.
Tulum to Cancun
Private transport tickets are available on Bookaway.
Private Option 2
Private transport tickets are available on Bookaway.
Cancun to Tulum Guide
Cancun has become one of the most popular holiday spots in Mexico. With its crystal-clear Caribbean waters and soft white-sand beaches, it’s the perfect place to unwind — whether you’re staying in a luxury resort or a simple beachfront hotel.
Sitting just north of the Riviera Maya, Cancun is packed with all-inclusive resorts, buzzing nightclubs, lively bars, and too many restaurants to choose from! If you could get a Cancun hotel by the beach, you're in for an unforgettable stay.
This busy city is also the door to other popular sites in the Yucatan Peninsula, as well as the rest of Mexico. Cancun International Airport is well connected for both domestic and international flights. It is the closest airport to nearby popular destinations and also serves Playa del Carmen and Tulum, among a few other towns.
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 Tulum to Cancun, roughly 125 kilometres (78 miles) apart. In all, there are 4 ways to make the trip. The cheapest fare is $5.40 (95 MXN). The quickest trip takes 1h 35m.
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 Tulum to Cancun?
The distance from Tulum to Cancun is 125 kilometres (78 miles).
What is the fastest way to get from Tulum to Cancun?
The fastest way to get from Tulum to Cancun is by private transport and takes 1h 35m - 2h 30m.
What is the cheapest way to get from Tulum to Cancun?
The cheapest way to get from Tulum to Cancun is by colectivo with ticket costs starting from 95 MXN.
What to expect when visiting Cancun?
Can you rent a car from Tulum 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
A writer and full-time mom who loves planning beach trips. London is her favourite destination.
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