Tulum walking tour & city guide
Mayan ruins on a cliff above the Caribbean.
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Tulum is famous for one of the most beautiful archaeological sites in Mexico: a walled Mayan city perched on a cliff above a turquoise sea. Around it, a bohemian beach scene, jungle cenotes and a vast biosphere reserve have made Tulum one of the most popular destinations on the Riviera Maya.
The ruins
Tulum was one of the last cities built by the Maya, at its height between the 13th and 15th centuries, and it was still inhabited when the Spanish arrived. Its main temple, El Castillo, stands on the edge of a cliff, and it served as a lighthouse for canoes coming through a gap in the reef.
The site is surrounded by a stone wall on three sides, with the sea on the fourth. A small beach below the cliffs is one of the most photographed spots in Mexico.
Town, beach and cenotes
Tulum is divided into the town (Tulum Pueblo), with its local restaurants and shops, and the Hotel Zone, a long road along the beach lined with boutique hotels and beach clubs. Bicycles are a popular way to get between them.
The area is dotted with cenotes, including Gran Cenote, Cenote Calavera and Dos Ojos, perfect for swimming and snorkeling in clear water. South of town, the Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve protects lagoons, mangroves and wildlife.
Visiting tips
Visit the ruins right at opening time, before the heat and the tour buses. Tulum's new international airport and the Maya Train have made it easier to reach. Bring cash for cenotes, as many only accept pesos.
Top sights in Tulum
- 1
Tulum Archaeological Site
Mayan ruins on a cliff above the sea.
- 2
Gran Cenote
A popular cenote for swimming and snorkeling.
- 3
Playa Paraíso
A beautiful white sand beach.
- 4
Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve
Lagoons, mangroves and wildlife.
- 5
Cobá
Jungle Mayan ruins nearby.
- 6
Tulum Pueblo
The town's main street of shops and cafés.
Food markets & where to eat in Tulum
Tulum Pueblo main avenue
Taquerías and local restaurants.
Calle Centauro Sur
Street food stands loved by locals.
Beach road
Beach clubs and restaurants by the sea.
Aldea Zamá
A newer area of cafés and restaurants.
Food to try in Tulum
Tacos de cochinita
Pulled achiote pork in tortillas.
Fresh coconut
Sold at the beach and roadside stands.
Panuchos
Fried tortillas stuffed with beans and topped with meat.
Mezcal
A smoky agave spirit.
Opening hours and prices change often. Please check with each place before you visit.
Plan your trip to Tulum
Enjoyed the walk? Here is everything you need to see it for real.
- Hotels in TulumCompare places to stay and prices.
- Tours & ticketsWalking tours, museums and day trips in Tulum.
- eSIM for MexicoStay online from the moment you land.
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