Discover Art in Tulum
Experience Tulum’s art scene, featuring local talent and global influences in an idyllic setting.
Content
Share:
The airport closest to Tulum used to be Cancun Airport, but Tulum has now opened its very own airport! Read more about this new airport and other nearby airports below.
Content
Add a header to begin generating the table of contents
What about Tulum International Airport?
Tulum International Airport opened its doors in December, 2023. Its strategic location, in close proximity to the town of Tulum, will offer travelers a convenient gateway to the area’s stunning beaches, ancient ruins, and cultural attractions.
The airport is equipped to handle a large number of tourists, contributing to the area’s growth as a prominent tourist hotspot. And with new and modern facilities, you’ll enjoy a joyful travel experience at Tulum International Airport.
How far is Tulum from other international airports
If traveling into Tulum International Airport doesn’t work for you, you could consider the following alternatives:
Cancun International Airport (CUN) is located approximately 80 miles (131 kilometers) from Tulum. The journey from Cancun to Tulum takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes by car.
Cozumel International Airport (CZM) is located on the island of Cozumel, which is approximately 45 minutes by ferry from Playa del Carmen. Playa del Carmen is located approximately 42 miles (68 kilometers) from Tulum, which takes about 45 minutes by car.
Merida International Airport (MID) is located approximately 162 miles (260 kilometers) from Tulum. The journey from Merida to Tulum takes approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes by car.
Don't Forget Your Passport
Be sure to bring your passport and other travel documents and your driver's license if you're planning to rent a car (US licenses are valid in Mexico).
How to get to Tulum from Cancun Airport?
There are various transportation options from Cancun Airport to Tulum, including:
Taxi: A taxi ride from Cancun airport to Tulum should cost approximately 80 USD (~1,500 Mexican pesos). Read more here.
Bus: There are ADO buses departing from Cancun airport to Tulum every 30 minutes. The cost of a bus ticket is around 10 USD (~200 pesos).
Private transfer: A more comfortable option is a private transfer from Cancun airport to Tulum, which costs about 150 USD (~2,500 pesos).
Of course, you can also rent a car. If you do, you might want to our tips for driving from Cancun to Tulum.
Don't Buy Bus Tickets from Scalpers
If you are taking a bus from the airport, purchase your ticket in advance online or at the ADO ticket counter (but not from people approaching you).
How to get to Tulum from Cozumel Airport?
When traveling from Cozumel Airport to Tulum, the most common route is by taking a taxi or transport service from the airport to the ferry terminal that will bring you to Playa Del Carmen. Getting from Cozumel Airport to the ferry terminal will cost around $12 to $15 (210 to 265 pesos). The 45-minute ferry ride to Playa del Carmen will cost around $10 to $12 per person (170 to 210 pesos).
Once you arrive in Playa del Carmen, you can opt for a bus, private transfer, or taxi to get to Tulum, which usually takes an additional 1 to 1.5 hours and costs anywhere between $8 to $40 per person (135 to 700 pesos), depending on your choice of transportation.
It’s important to note that for most travelers, flying directly to Cozumel Airport only makes sense if your primary destination is Cozumel itself, since the journey to Tulum involves multiple transfers and can be time-consuming.
Book Airport Transfers in Advance
If you are taking a private transfer from the airport, be sure to book your transfer in advance to ensure availability.
How to get to Tulum from Merida Airport?
When traveling from Merida Airport to Tulum, the journey also typically involves multiple transportation options. The total travel time can vary but generally takes around 3.5 to 4.5 hours by road, covering a distance of approximately 320 kilometers.
The most common way to get from the airport to the bus station in Merida is through a taxi or shuttle service, which costs between $10 to $25 (170 to 435 pesos). From there, you can board an ADO bus to Tulum, which takes 3 to 4 hours and costs approximately $25 to $35 per person (435 to 610 pesos).
Merida is a charming city and offers rich cultural experiences and historical sites. But it’s quite far from Tulum. So unless you want to visit Merida too, it will save money and time if you fly to Tulum Airport or Cancun Airport.
Book Peak Season Flights Early
Traveling around New Year? Buy tickets ideally 2 - 4 months ahead. Prices jump fast and seats can sell out.
So what airport do you fly into for Tulum?
The new International Airport of Tulum is the fastest way to get to Tulum. Depending on where you’re traveling from and whether you can fly straight into Tulum International Airport, flying into Cancun Airport is the next best option.
Airport Shuttle
Consider hiring one of our private drivers to pick you up from any airport
Exploring Apartment Rentals in Tulum
Looking to rent an apartment in Tulum for your vacation? This guide covers the best neighborhoods, rental types, prices, amenities, and top-rated buildings.
Crime in Tulum: What You Need to Know
Learn about crime in Tulum, from petty theft to nightlife safety, with tips to protect yourself during your trip.
Walking in Tulum
How walkable is Tulum? Learn where the best places to walk are and what to expect there.
Other Articles
Discover Tulum’s best grocery stores, liquor stores and delivery services. Plus a few tips for shopping Tulum.
Discover the truth about safety in Tulum. Learn how to avoid risks and explore confidently with our expert advice.
Discover the best kayaking spots in Tulum, from cenotes to the Caribbean coastline. Find kayak rentals and tours for an unforgettable adventure in Tulum’s stunning waters.