How to Get from Cancun to Playa del Carmen, Mexico

23 Nov 2022 4 min read No comments Mexico Routes

You can travel from Cancun to Playa del Carmen by ADO bus, shared shuttle, private transfer, rental car, or taxi/uber. Check out our guide with all the important information.

Playa del Carmen is a popular tourist destination located on the coast of the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico.

The town is known for its beautiful beaches, lively nightlife, and ancient Mayan ruins.

Looking to explore Playa del Carmen beyond the resort?

Check out these top-day tours from GetYourGuide. From swimming in cenotes to visiting ancient ruins, there’s something for everyone.

Check out our guide for all the important information on traveling from Cancun to Playa del Carmen.

Distance from Cancun to Playa del Carmen

The distance from Cancun to Playa del Carmen is about 68 kilometers or 42 miles by car.

It takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes to travel by car from Cancun to Playa del Carmen.

Transportation Options from Cancun to Playa del Carmen

The following table outlines all transportation options from Cancun to Playa del Carmen:

MethodTravel timePrice
ADO Bus from Cancun to Playa del Carmen1 hour and 40 minutes USD 7
Shared Shuttle from Cancun to Playa del Carmen1 hour and 40 minutes USD 25
Private Transfer from Cancun to Playa del Carmen1 hour and 15 minutes
Taxi from Cancun to Playa del Carmen1 hour and 15 minutes
Rental Car from Cancun to Playa del Carmen1 hour and 15 minutes

Getting to Playa del Carmen from Cancun

1. ADO Bus from Cancun to Playa del Carmen

Travel time: 1 hour and 40 minutes

The ADO bus is one of the best ways to get from Cancun to Playa del Carmen. The bus leaves from the ADO bus station in downtown Cancun, and it takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes to get to Playa del Carmen.

The cost of the bus starts at only USD 7 per person.

The bus ride is very comfortable, and you can take your time to enjoy the scenery along the way. The driver will drop you off at the ADO bus station in Playa del Carmen.

If you are looking for a cheap, convenient, and comfortable way to get from Cancun to Playa del Carmen, then the ADO bus is the best option for you!

Departure TimeArrival TimeDurationPrice per Person
06:10 AM07:30 AM1 hour and 20 minutesUSD 7BOOK NOW 6.59.51 PM e1667205837574
07:00 AM08:10 AM1 hour and 5 minutesUSD 7BOOK NOW 6.59.51 PM e1667205837574
08:10 AM09:30 AM1 hour and 20 minutesUSD 7BOOK NOW 6.59.51 PM e1667205837574
09:00 AM10:21 AM1 hour and 21 minutesUSD 7BOOK NOW 6.59.51 PM e1667205837574
10:00 AM11:25 AM1 hour and 25 minutesUSD 8BOOK NOW 6.59.51 PM e1667205837574
11:00 AM12:10 PM1 hour and 5 minutesUSD 7BOOK NOW 6.59.51 PM e1667205837574
12:00 PM01:20 PM1 hour and 20 minutesUSD 8BOOK NOW 6.59.51 PM e1667205837574
01:00 PM02:20 PM1 hour and 20 minutesUSD 8BOOK NOW 6.59.51 PM e1667205837574
02:00 PM03:50 PM1 hour and 50 minutesUSD 8BOOK NOW 6.59.51 PM e1667205837574
03:00 PM04:40 PM1 hour and 40 minutesUSD 8BOOK NOW 6.59.51 PM e1667205837574
04:00 PM05:20 PM1 hour and 20 minutesUSD 8BOOK NOW 6.59.51 PM e1667205837574
05:10 PM06:30 PM1 hour and 30 minutesUSD 8BOOK NOW 6.59.51 PM e1667205837574
06:00 PM07:20 PM1 hour and 20 minutesUSD 8BOOK NOW 6.59.51 PM e1667205837574
07:40 PM09:00 PM1 hour and 20 minutesUSD 8BOOK NOW 6.59.51 PM e1667205837574
08:20 PM10:00 PM1 hour and 40 minutesUSD 8BOOK NOW 6.59.51 PM e1667205837574
11:59 PM01:30 AM1 hour and 30 minutesUSD 8BOOK NOW 6.59.51 PM e1667205837574
Cancun to Playa del Carmen

2. Shared Shuttle from Cancun to Playa del Carmen

Travel time: 1 hour and 40 minutes

A shared shuttle is a great option for getting from Cancun to Playa del Carmen.

Many companies offer this service, and it is relatively inexpensive. The shuttle will pick you up at your hotel in Cancun and take you to your accommodation in Playa del Carmen.

The journey takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes.

3. Private Transfer from Cancun to Playa del Carmen

Travel time: 1 hour and 15 minutes

With a Private Transfer, you will have your own driver who will pick you up at your hotel in Cancun and take you to your destination in Playa del Carmen.

The driver will also help with your luggage and ensure you are comfortable during the ride.

Private transfers are a great way to travel if you want to avoid the hassle of public transportation.

Prices for a private transfer from Cancun to Playa del Carmen:

  • 1 to 7 passengers: USD 74
  • 8 to 10 passengers: USD 88
  • 11 to 16 passengers: USD 145
Cancun to Playa del Carmen

4. Driving with Rental Car from Cancun to Playa del Carmen

Travel time: 1 hour and 15 minutes

The drive from Cancun to Playa del Carmen is scenic, made even more beautiful by the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea. The route takes you along the coast, with plenty of opportunities to stop and take in the view.

The drive takes about an hour and 15 minutes but can be longer depending on traffic. It’s a good idea to leave early in the morning to avoid the heaviest traffic.

We recommend you make a reservation in advance!

5. Uber or taxi from Cancun to Playa del Carmen

Travel time: 1 hour and 15 minutes

Lastly, you can also take a taxi from Cancun to Playa del Carmen.

We highly recommend organizing transportation in advance and only taking a taxi if you decide to travel to Playa del Carmen at the last minute.

Tip: Agree on a fixed price before you get in the car!

Best day tours in Playa del Carmen

Looking to explore the best of Playa del Carmen on a day tour?

Then look no further than GetYourGuide!

With their wide range of options, you’re sure to find the perfect tour for you. From exploring ancient ruins to swimming in cenotes, there’s something for everyone.

And with their experienced and knowledgeable guides, you’re guaranteed to have a great time.

Check out the following widgets for more day tours in Playa del Carmen!

Cancun to Playa del Carmen

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cheapest option to get from Cancun to Playa del Carmen?

Taking an ADO bus is the cheapest option to get from Cancun to Playa del Carmen. Ticket prices start at USD 7 per person.

What is the fastest way to get from Cancun to Playa del Carmen?

The fastest way to get from Cancun to Playa del Carmen is by private transfer or rental car. Depending on the traffic, it takes about one hour and 15 minutes to get to Playa del Carmen.

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