September 2021 -

europe itineraries, gemini gypsy diaries, 4 days in Prague itinerary, prague, buildings, sunrise-5405649.jpg

An Amazing 4 Days In Prague Itinerary

Have you been to Prague? Or, are you planning 4 days in Prague trip?

This 4 days in Prague itinerary is ideal for first-timers and those wanting to revisit this beautiful city. Prague is the capital city of the Czech Republic. It is also the largest city with a population of 1.3 million people.

In this post, we answer the questions below which could be useful when planning your trip to Prague.

Where is Prague?
Is 4 days enough in Prague?
What are the best areas to stay in Prague?
What is the best part of Prague to stay?
How much money do I need for 4 days in Prague?
Is Prague worth visiting?

Disclaimer: Some of the links on here are affiliate links and I may earn if you click on them, AT NO EXTRA COST to you. Please read my Disclaimer Policy for more information. Hope you find the information here useful! Thanks.

Where is Prague?

Prague is on the Vltava River at the center of the Bohemian Basin. The city has continuously been inhabited since the Paleolithic Age. In the early 4th and 5th centuries, a Celtic tribe arrived and established settlements in present-day Prague.

The tribe named the place “Boiohaemum” which translated to the “home of the Boi people”. The Celts were driven out by the Germanic tribes. The Slavic tribes moved into Central Bohemia during the 6th century.

For the next three centuries, Czech tribes built several fortifications. By the 9th century, the expansion of Prague Castle began on an existing settlement that had existed since the year 800 BC.

Legendary Beginnings

The legend of the beginning of Prague goes back to the 7th century when a Slavic Princess Libuše and her husband, Prince Přemysl once ruled peacefully over Czech lands. One day, the princess had a vision.

At that time, she stood on a cliff overlooking the Vltava, and pointed to the forests across the river, and said “Vidím město veliké, jehož sláva hvězd se dotýkati bude” which means “I see a great city whose glory would touch the stars.”

After this vision, she instructed her people to build a castle where a man was building the threshold of a house. She then said, “and because even the great noblemen must bow low before a threshold, you shall give it the name Praha”.

Two hundred years later, Prague became the seat of the Premyslid Dynasty.

5 Fun Facts About the Czech Republic

Prague is approximately at the same latitude as Frankfurt, Paris, and Vancouver.
This city’s nickname is the “City of a Hundred Spires” as it has at least 500 spires. The tallest spire is at City Tower which stands at 109 meters.
The Bohemian lifestyle is part of the Czech heritage. The Kingdom of Bohemia was an early modern monarchy in Central Europe.
Home to several of the oldest historical sites. This meant that many historical sites still stand today. St George’s Basilica, the oldest building in Prague is one the must-visits when in the city.

BONUS FACT: There are 14 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the Czech Republic.

Visa Requirements

It is the Ministry of Foreign Affairs that manages the visa and entry residence permits into the Czech Republic.

Schengen Visa

Since the Czech Republic is part of the Schengen Area, the Uniform Schengen Visa applies. This visa is for categories “A” and “C”.

A category “A” is an Airport Transit Visa whereby citizens of 29 nations would have to lodge a transit visa if they are transiting to any international airports within the Czech Republic.

A category “C” is a Schengen Visa that is specifically for tourism, medical treatment, business, culture, internship studies, employment, and training. This visa is valid for up to 90 days for stays in either the Czech Republic or any other Schengen States.

Long Term Visa

These visas are for stays longer than 90 days and less than 1 year. This Type “D” visa allows the holder to travel and stay either in the Czech Republic or any Schengen nation on a long-term non-profit basis.

A category “D” is specifically for medical treatments, sporting events, cultural events, volunteering or internship studies, visiting family members, and entrepreneurship.

The Application Forms for Visas and Permits are available in dual language and languages such as French, Russian, Spanish, and Ukrainian. These forms are available at all consulates and are free of charge.

Do I need a visa to go to Prague?

According to the Department of State, citizens of the United States DO NOT REQUIRE A VISA for stays less than 90 days. The purpose should only be as tourist, business, and study, except for work.

Getting Around in Prague

Prague has an integrated transport system which makes getting around the city easy and in some areas, walkable. Listed below are some of the transport options you can consider when in Prague.

Metro, Buses & Trams

There are three metro lines in Prague. Line A is the GREEN line while Line B is the YELLOW line and Line C is the RED line. Prague has exceptional and comprehensive bus and tram lines that reach every corner of the city.

The trams and buses usually run from 5 am to midnight. After midnight, a small fleet of night trams and night buses are available across the city every 40 minutes. The price for the night ticket is 32Kč ($1.50) per person.

For a complete list of public transport available, scheduled routes, and prices, you can check out the Prague Integrated Transport website and click the “For tourists” tab for information on traveling around Prague, what ticket to use, and maps.

Taxis are another easy and affordable option to get around Prague. Taxi scams are a risk and any trip within the city center should not cost more than 200Kč ($10). It is best to confirm your destination and estimated fare before getting in. Also, make sure the meter is switched on.

Liftago is a reliable and locally owned ride-share service and your ride would arrive within minutes. You would need to download the app before arriving in Prague. What we love about it is that we can choose our driver based on price, arrival time, user reviews, and car model.

Walking

This is the best way to explore Prague’s Old Town as all tourist icons are within walking distance from one another. For women, make sure to wear your Skecher’s Go Walk Joy Walking Shoes and for men, get the Skecher’s Go Walk Max and walk your way around Prague!

Is 4 days enough in Prague?

Although 4 days may seem brief, it is perfect to explore the city, absorb its culture and history. Importantly, these four days are not rushed and you would have ample time to see its main sites.

Day 1: Old Town (Staré Město pražské)

Prague’s Old Town began as a medieval settlement that was separated from the outside by a semi-circular moat and wall that was connected to the Vltava River on both ends. Historical records dating back to 1100 AD mention that every Saturday, a market was held there.

Is Prague Old Town safe?

According to Travel Safe Abroad, Prague is a very safe city to visit. Other than the usual pickpocketing, the risk of mugging and natural disasters is low. Prague is also a safe city for female solo travelers and women do not have to worry about being harassed on the streets.

Charles Bridge

The first in our 4 days in Prague itinerary is Charles Bridge or Karlův most. This stone arch bridge replaced the Judith Bridge that was damaged by the floods of Prague in 1342.

Charles Bridge was the means of crossing the river until 1841 and was the most important connection between Prague and the city’s Old Town. The bridge made Prague an important trade route between Eastern and Western Europe and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Why do people touch the statue on Charles Bridge?

The statue that is prone to rubbing is that of St John of Nepomuk. Legend has it that the saint was thrown into Vltava River after he refused to divulge the queen’s confessional secrets.

It is believed that touching the plaque below his statue brings good luck while touching the plaque with a cross that marks the spot he was thrown into the river would grant one’s wishes.

How many statues does Charles Bridge have?

On the balustrade of this bridge, you will see 30 statues. These sculptures were erected between 1683 and 1714 and are that of venerated saints and patron saints of that time. Among the notable statues are St Francis of Assisi, St Francis Xavier, St Luthgard, and St John of Nepomuk.

NOTE: The statues you see on the bridge are all replicas. The original statues are placed at the National Museum.

Read the 10 Facts About Charles Bridge and the Google Doodle on the 660th Anniversary of the Charles Bridge to know more.

Powder Gate Tower

4 days in Prague itinerary, Powder Tower

The second in our 4 days in Prague itinerary is the Powder Gate Tower or Prašná brána is one of the original city gates that separate the New Town from the Old Town. The name is because the gate was used to store gunpowder during the 17th century.

When was Powder Tower built?

Powder Tower was built in 1475 and stands at 65 meters in height. The Observation Gallery is at 44 meters and visitors would have to climb 186 stone staircases to reach it.

How much is the entrance fee to the Powder Tower?

The entrance fee starts at 150Kč ($7) for adults. A reduced fee of 100Kč ($5) is given to children aged between 6 to 15 years, students below 26 years, and seniors above 65 years of age. A family entrance ticket is 350Kč ($17).

There is an early bird discount of 50% off the admission fee, every day during the first hour of opening.

Old Town Square

The third of our 4 days in Prague itinerary is the Old Town Square or Staroměstské náměstí. This historic area is located between Charles Bridge and Wenceslas Square and is an easy 10-minute walk from Charles Bridge.

The Old Town Square has seen many events since it was constructed in the 10th century. The first Czech King, John of Luxembourg, and his wife, Elisabeth of Bohemia passed through this square in 1311.

Many beheadings have taken place in front of the Town Hall with the most tragic event being the beheadings of the 27 prominent participants of the Czech Revolt. A commemoration with 27 crosses are marked on the sidewalk at the Old Town Hall for these martyrs.

This square has several other landmarks such as the Astronomical Clock, the Church of Mother of God before Týn, and the Prague Meridian.

What is the statue in Old Town Square Prague?

The statue at the Old Town Square is the Jan Hus Memorial. This statue depicts the Hussite and Protestant warriors who were forced into exile during the Battle of the White Mountain.

Jan Hus was a symbol of strength against oppressive regimes and a symbol of the anti-Habsburg rule to the people of Bohemia and regions around Prague.

Fun Fact

During the communist rule of Czechoslovakia, sitting at the feet of the Jan Hus Memorial was a way where one could express opinions and opposition against the Communists, peacefully.

Astronomical Clock

The fourth in our 4 days in Prague itinerary is the Astronomical Clock or Pražský orloj is the third oldest clock in the world and the oldest clock that is still working. The clock is at the southern wall of the Old Town Hall building in the Old Town Square area.

The three main components of the clock are its astronomical dial, the statues of various Catholic saints, and the “Walk of the Apostles” which is a must-see event when at Old Town.

Legends of the Astronomical Clock

One local legend mentions that once the clock stops, the Czech’s would suffer bad times or be affected by war. Another legend is that of the Clock Master Hanuš who was blinded by the Prague Councillors so that he would not make another masterpiece clock again.

Legend has it that after he was blinded, he went to the heart of the astronomical clock and stopped the clockwork. The clock was only repaired a century later.

Kinský Palace

4 days in Prague itinerary, Kinsky Palace, National Gallery, Art Museum

The fifth of our 4 days in Prague itinerary is Kinský Palace. This palace is now the National Gallery and is used as an art museum. It is an easy 2-minute walk from the Astronomical Clock.

Some notable people who have stayed here are Alfred Nobel, Bertha von Suttner who was the winner of the first Nobel Peace Price in 1905, and Franz Kafka.

How much is the entrance fee to Kinský Palace?

A 10-day pass costs 500Kč ($23) and is valid for entry to all permanent and temporary exhibitions.

Church of Mother of God before Týn

4 days in Prague itinerary, Church of Mother of God before Tyn

The sixth in our 4 days in Prague itinerary is Church of Mother of God before Týn. This church was built in the 14th century. It is on the grounds of a Romanesque church that was present since the 11th century.

Is there any entrance fee to enter the church?

No, there isn’t any entrance fee to enter the church. However, a donation of about 40Kč ($1) would suffice. As this is a working church, sightseeing is not possible during masses.

Day 2: New Town (Nové Město)

On Day 2 of our 4 days in Prague itinerary, we explore Prague’s New Town. This area is about three times the size of the Old Town. The three main sights we will explore here are the Dancing House, the Franz Kafka rotating head, and the Emmaus Monastery.

Fun Fact

This New Town isn’t exactly new. It was built in 1348 by Charles IV which makes this place about 673 years old. This place is also the center of education as Charles University is within this area.

Dancing House

The seventh in our 4 days in Prague itinerary is the Dancing House. The actual name of this building is the Nationale-Nederlanden building. The house attracted controversy due to its unique design as it stands out among its Baroque, Gothic, and Art Nouveau neighbors.

What is another nickname of the Dancing House?

Another nickname of the house is “Fred & Ginger”. The house was originally named to honor the famous dancers, Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers. The tower made of concrete represents Fred Astaire while the tower of glass represents Ginger Rogers.

Fun Fact

The house is historically significant as part of the building was destroyed by the United States bombing of Prague in 1945 which led to the building being abandoned.

Emmaus Monastery

The eighth of our 4 days in Prague itinerary is the Emmaus Monastery which is a short 10-minute walk from the Dancing House. This monastery was originally known as Na Slovanech and is the only Benedictine Monastery of the Bohemian Kingdom and Slavic Europe.

This monastery is home to the rarest sights of Bohemian Gothic art with 85 wall paintings that depict scenes from the Old Testament and the New Testament. The original frescoes that depict Pagan symbolism from the 14th century can also be seen.

How much is the entrance fee to the Emmaus Monastery?

The entrance fee for an adult is 60Kč ($3) while the fee for a family is 120Kč ($6).

Franz Kafka Rotating Head

The ninth in our 4 days in Prague itinerary is the Franz Kafka Rotating Head. This kinetic sculpture is a 20-minute walk from the Emmaus Monastery. This sculpture was made by David Černý.

The sculpture seeks to physicalize the ever-changing pieces of the writer’s mind. Forty-two individually rotating layers are mechanized using the traditional gears of the astronomical clock at Old Town.

Day 3: Malá Strana (Lesser Town)

On Day 3 of our 4 days in Prague itinerary, we explore Malá Strana or Lesser Town as it is commonly known. This area was founded by King Ottokar II of Bohemia. He created it to amalgamate several settlements into a single administrative unit.

Wallenstein Palace

The tenth of our 4 days in Prague itinerary is the Wallenstein Palace. The palace was built by Albrecht von Wallenstein who was the Commander-in-Chief of the Imperial Forces during the Czech Thirty-Years War.

Today, the palace houses the Senate of the Czech Republic. The Senate Chancellery does not provide sightseeing tours to any travel agencies. Although the palace has entry restrictions, the gardens are open to the public and do not have any entrance fee.

Lennon Wall

The eleventh of our 4 days in Prague itinerary is the John Lennon Wall. This wall is an 8-minute walk or a 5-minute drive from Wallenstein Palace. The wall is located at a small square across the French embassy and continuously changes.

The wall is owned by the Sovereign Military Order of Malta and is known as a symbol of peace and freedom. To prevent vandalism, members of the public can only mark the wall using pencil, chalk, or markers. Spray painting is not allowed to ensure that the artistic portion is not defaced.

Why is the Lennon Wall in Prague?

The Lennon Wall in Prague is a symbol of non-violent rebellion and freedom of speech of Czech youth against the Communist regime. Read Prague’s Famous John Lennon Wall and Imagine No Graffiti to know more.

Church of Our Lady Victorious

The twelfth of our 4 days in Prague itinerary is the Church of Our Lady Victorious or Kostel Panny Marie Vítězné. The 16th century of the Infant Jesus holding an orb and a cross was donated by Polyxena, the 1st Princess of Lobkowicz.

While the church is now a UNESCO Heritage Site, the monastery is now the office of the Ministry of Education, Youth, and Sports.

What is the significance of the Child of Prague?

According to the Irish Post, the Child of Prague is believed to have a beneficial effect on the weather.

There is a custom where the statue of the Child of Prague would be placed outside the bride’s house, under a hedge as a cue to a sunny day before the nuptials. Read BBC’s Religious Statue Believed To Guarantee Good Weather to know more.

Petrin Lookout Tower

The thirteenth of our 4 days in Prague itinerary is Petrin Lookout Tower or Petřínská rozhledna. This tower is about a 25-minute walk from the Church of Our Lady Victorious. The walk is through Petrin Hill that is covered in parks.

The tower was built to resemble Eiffel Tower and is used as an observation and transmission tower. There is a permanent exhibition on how the tower has changed through the centuries.

How many steps does Petrin Tower have?

Petrin Tower has 299 steps to the two observation platforms. The tower stands at 63.5 meters in height and the design of its lowest cross beams is similar to Eiffel Tower.

How much does it cost to get into Petrin Tower?

The entrance fee to Petrin Tower is 150Kč ($7) for adults and 350Kč ($17) for a family.

Day 4: Castle District (Hradčany)

The last of our 4 days in Prague itinerary is visiting the Castle District. This is the district that surrounds Prague Castle. The two main sights here are Prague Castle and the St Vitus Cathedral.

Prague Castle

The fourteenth of our 4 days in Prague itinerary is the Prague Castle or Pražský hrad. This castle complex was built in the 9th century and was the seat of power for the Bohemian Kingdom, the Holy Roman Emperors, and the presidents of Czechoslovakia.

According to the Guinness Book of World Records, Prague Castle is the largest ancient castle in the world with a surface area of 18 acres.

𝐅𝐮𝐧 𝐅𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐬 𝐀𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐏𝐫𝐚𝐠𝐮𝐞 𝐂𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐥𝐞

𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐂𝐫𝐨𝐰𝐧 𝐉𝐞𝐰𝐞𝐥𝐬. No thief can get the Crown Jewels as they are locked behind a closed chamber door with seven locks whose keys are held by seven people. All seven have to be present to open the door.
𝐋𝐞𝐠𝐞𝐧𝐝 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐔𝐬𝐮𝐫𝐩𝐞𝐫. During the Nazi Occupation, the protector of the Reich, Reinhard Heydrich loved to put the crown on his head and pretend that he was the king of the land. The local legend mentions that if a usurper places the crown on his head, he would die within a year. True enough, Heydrich was killed in an ambush on his way to the castle in less than a year, while his son was killed in an accident a year later.
𝐅𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐅𝐨𝐮𝐫. The castle boasts 4 palaces, the Old Royal Palace, the New Royal Palace, Lobkowicz, and Belvedere. To complement these 4 palaces, there are 4 churches, St Vitus Cathedral, St George’s Basilica, All Saints Church, and the Holy Cross Chapel.

How much does Prague Castle cost?

The Prague Castle Circuit Ticket costs 250Kč ($11) for adults and 500Kč ($23) for families. This ticket allows entry to the Old Royal Palace, St George’s Basilica, the Golden Lane, and St Vitus Cathedral. Visitors with this ticket can enter Château Park in Lany for free.

A single ticket to the Château Park in Lany costs 15Kč ($0.70¢) while an Audioguide for 1 device for 3 hours costs 200Kč ($10) while Tours with Licensed Professional Guides of the Prague Castle Administration costs 100Kč ($5).

Read the 7 Things You Probably Didn’t Know About Prague Castle and A Brief History of the Prague Castle to know more.

St Vitus Cathedral

The fifteenth and last in our 4 days in Prague itinerary is St Vitus Cathedral. This church is the largest and most important in the country. The cathedral is the third to be built on-site. This church is within the St Wenceslas Chapel.

Is St Vitus Cathedral free?

Entry to the cathedral is free if you have purchased the Prague Castle Circuit Ticket. Entry is 150Kč ($7) for adults and 300Kč ($14) for families.

The Great South Tower is about 100 meters in height and offers a panoramic view of Prague and the bells of the cathedral. There are 280 steps to reach the top.

𝑫𝒊𝒅 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒌𝒏𝒐𝒘 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒄𝒓𝒂𝒄𝒌𝒆𝒅 𝒄𝒍𝒂𝒑𝒑𝒆𝒓 𝒐𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒁𝒊𝒌𝒎𝒖𝒏𝒅 𝒇𝒐𝒓𝒆𝒕𝒆𝒍𝒍𝒔 𝒅𝒊𝒔𝒂𝒔𝒕𝒆𝒓 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝑷𝒓𝒂𝒈𝒖𝒆?

During the pealing on the occasion of the feast of St Vitus on 15 June 2002, the clapper of Zikmund cracked. According to local legends, this meant a disaster was coming. In August 2002, the largest flood in Prague’s history struck and destroyed more than 1,000 houses.

What is the best part of Prague to stay?

Whether you are visiting Prague for the first time or are a frequent visitor, Prague has a range of beautiful places worth staying in. In this post, we visit the 3 common areas that are suitable for first-timers, nightlife, and families.

Old Town (Staré Mesto) For First-Timers

This is an ideal place for first-timers as major historical sights are all within reach. If you have time, head north to the Jewish Quarters.

Read Inside Prague’s Jewish Quarter and the 10 Epic Things To Do In Prague Old Town to know more. Prague’s Old Town is also home to many places to stay, from luxury accommodations to budget stays. And, our recommended accommodation are:

New Town (Nové Mesto) For Nightlife

The main commercial activities are in this part of the city. Prague’s New Town essentially wraps the Old Town to the east, southeast, and south. This is one of Prague’s coolest neighborhoods as the cobblestones turn into boardwalks and amidst the parks. And, our recommended accommodation are:

Luxury

Radisson Blu Hotel

Cosmopolitan Hotel

Kings Court Hotel

Mid-range

Dancing House Hotel

Miss Sophie’s

Salvator Boutique Hotel

Budget

The ICON Hotel

What is the best month to go to Prague?

The spring months of March to May are one of the best times to visit Prague. Spring brings with it milder weather, and reasonably priced hotels minus the summer crowds. Although the days are longer and warmer, don’t underestimate the power of a cold chill.

The summer months from June to August bring sunny days and large crowds everywhere. You would be fighting for space as thousands flock to Prague for its sights. It is best to make a booking of at least 3 months for accommodation.

Another best time to visit is during the autumn months of September to October. The weather becomes colder as the summer crowd thins. Although it is not as busy as the summer months, booking accommodation is preferable.

Winter comes to Prague from November to February. The crowds have dispersed as the city becomes free of tourists. Temperatures drop to the 20s and are in the mid-30s most of the time. With beautiful holiday decorations, December is a busy month to visit.

Prague Travel Essentials

There are several travel essentials when packing for a trip to Prague. These are:

Travelon Anti-Theft Cross Body Bag. This bag has an adjustable cut-proof strap, several compartments, and made using dirt-resistant fabric.
Extra Large Thick Soft Cashmere Wool Shawl. This shawl keeps your neck and chest warm during the autumn and winter months of Prague and is suitable for all sizes.
Veken 6 Set Packing Cubes. Are you still fumbling with your luggage while unpacking? Get these packing cubes to sort, organize, and find your things in a flash.
Vegan Activated Charcoal Capsules. With these capsules, you do not have to worry about bloating or gas during your travels. You can try the 10 Traditional Czech Dishes and not worry at all.
International Plug Adapter. This compact travel adapter is suitable for use in the Czech Republic and can charge 4 devices at once. It comes with a voltage indicator that ensures you do not plug a 110V device into a 220V socket.

How much money do I need for 4 days in Prague?

According to Budget Your Trip, the average daily cost per person per day is 2,042Kč ($94) which results in an average cost for one person for one week being 14,293Kč ($658). The cost of accommodation for one person is 1,240Kč ($57) while the average cost of food per day is 489Kč ($23).

The average cost of tips and handouts is 39Kč ($1.80). The expected amount for tipping is usually between 5% to 15% of the total bill.

Is Prague worth visiting?

Yes! Not only is this city walkable, but it is also perfect for those who want a short break. The city is safe, public transportation is cheap, and it has picturesque buildings that are postcard perfect.

Itinerary For Cancun In 3 Amazing Days

An Amazing 4 Days In Prague Itinerary Read More »

itinerary for cancun, cancun, mexico, beach-1228137.jpg

Itinerary For Cancun In 3 Amazing Days

Regions / Reena Yadav

With spectacular white sandy beaches, ancient Mayan culture, and a place full of adventure, this is Cancun. In our itinerary for Cancun, we cover the essentials for a short memorable trip. From turquoise blue seas to a day trip to Tulum, we have got your 3 amazing days covered!

Our key highlights include:-

Playa Delfines
Dos Ojos Cenote
Tulum Ruins
Chichen Itza
El Rey & El Meco Archaeological Ruins

Cancun is in the state of Quintana Roo on the northeast coast of the Yucatan Peninsula and is north of Mexico’s Caribbean coast, the Riviera Maya. In our post, we answer the following questions which are useful when planning your trip to Cancun. Let’s start!

Where is Cancun?
Is it worth going to Cancun for 3 days?
What is the best month to go to Cancun Mexico?
What is the best location to stay in Cancun?
Is Cancun worth visiting?

Where is Cancún?

The name Cancún is from the Mayan word kàan kun, where kàan means “snake” and kum means “to swell, overfill”. Cancun has two translations: the first is “nest of snakes” and the second one is “place of the golden snake”.

History

Before we proceed with our itinerary for Cancun, here’s a brief history of Cancun. There are some theories regarding the disappearance of the Mayans that inhabited Cancun. They disappeared because of prolonged drought, internal wars, and the change of trade routes.

They were building tourism zones without permanent residential areas, building residential zones for permanent residents, and building an international airport along the Cancún-Tulum Highway.

Today, Cancún is Mexico’s most dynamic city and with a promising future. This premier Caribbean destination surpasses the Bahamas and Puerto Rico and is the largest tourist resort city in Mexico.

Do I need a passport to go to Cancun?

USA Today mentions that citizens of the United States who are arriving at Cancun would need a valid passport that has at least 6 months of validity. You would need to fill up the Forma Migratoria Multiple. The cost of the form is FREE if you are traveling by flight.

Citizens of the United States who are entering Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and the Bahamas either by land or sea can apply for a passport card. The cost of the card is $65 for first-time applicants who are above 16 years, $50 for applicants under 16 years, and $30 for renewals through the mail.

For tourists, America and others, you would have to submit the Forma Migratioria Multiple which is Mexico’s tourist card. Read Do I Need A Passport To Travel To Mexico? And, Entry Requirements And Customs In Mexico to know more.

5 Fun Facts on Cancun

Fun Facts on Cancun

𝐑𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬. Only 3 residents were living in Cancun when the place was a coconut plantation. Today, Cancun is home to at least 750,000 people.
𝐘𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐟𝐞𝐞𝐭 𝐰𝐨𝐧’𝐭 𝐛𝐮𝐫𝐧 𝐨𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐚𝐧𝐝. Cancun’s 14 miles of white sandy beaches are made from crushed sea corals and do not heat up when the temperature rises.
𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐆𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐭 𝐌𝐚𝐲𝐚𝐧 𝐑𝐞𝐞𝐟. The Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System or the Maya Reef is the second largest barrier reef in the world after Australia’s Great Barrier Reef. The reef stretches over 700 miles along the coasts of Mexico, Guatemala, Belize, and Honduras.
𝐂𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐮́𝐧 𝐔𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐰𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐌𝐮𝐬𝐞𝐮𝐦. This museum has 500 sculptures in three different galleries deep underwater at the Cancún National Marine Park. A Glass Bottom Boat in the Gallery of Punta Nizuc costs $𝟒𝟕 𝐌𝐗𝐍 while a Paradise Adventure Snorkel costs $𝟕𝟎 𝐌𝐗𝐍 per person.
𝐋𝐨𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐔𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐰𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐂𝐚𝐯𝐞 𝐒𝐲𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐦. The Sistema Ox Bel Ha is the longest explored cave system in the world. Its explored length is 168 miles and is home to 140 cenotes within the system.

Is it worth going to Cancun for 3 days?

Cancun is an ideal destination for a quick 3-day trip where you would have enough time to explore Cancun’s beaches, have a day trip to Tulum, and visit the ancient ruins that are scattered along Cancun.

Day 1: Beach & Cenotes Day

The first on Day 1 of our itinerary for Cancun is beach and cenotes day. Cancun is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Our day starts with a visit to the best beach in Cancun, the Playa Delfines and we end the day with a visit to Playa Tortugas.

Playa Delfines

First in our itinerary for Cancun is Playa Delfines. Playa Delfines is an 11-minute drive from the Hotel Zone. Playa Delfines means Dolphin Beach as dolphins can be seen swimming close to shore.

Its nickname is El Mirador which means “The Lookout” due to its sweeping views of the Caribbean ocean. Other than being the best beach in Cancun, Playa Delfines is famous for its “CANCUN” signage that is a perfect backdrop for your photos.

The waters of this beach are rough and choppy and extreme caution is necessary. Swimming is not recommended.

Do you have to pay to go to Playa Delfines?

No, there is no entrance fee to Playa Delfines. Playa Delfines is one of the rare beaches where free parking is also available.

Dos Ojos Cenote

Second in our itinerary for Cancun is Dos Ojos Cenote. This cenote is 1.5 hours from Playa Delfines. These cenotes are part of the larger Sistema Dos Ojos which is a flooded cave system that is north of Tulum. Dos Ojos in Spanish means “two eyes”.

The exploration of Dos Ojos continues to this day with the recent finding of there being a connection between Sistema Dos Ojos and Sistema Sac Actun. Dos Ojos has a depth of approximately 10 meters (33 ft) and the water is remarkably clear as the water is filtered through the limestone. The activities here are swimming, diving, and snorkeling.

Is Cenote Dos Ojos pricy?

An entrance fee of $200 MXN ($10) while snorkeling equipment can be rented for $100 MXN ($5). The opening hours are from 8.00 am to 5.00 pm daily. There are bathrooms on site. And, bring your food and beverages as there aren’t any restaurants here.

Playa Tortugas

Third in our itinerary for Cancun is Playa Tortugas. This beach is about 2 hours from Cenotes Dos Ojos. The beach is a heavily trafficked public beach in Cancun. It is located close to Cancun’s city center and the coastal Hotel Zone.

Playa Tortugas is an ideal place to watch the sunset. Playa Tortugas means “Turtle Beach” in Spanish. The highlight of this beach is its party vibes. This is the place to be if you want a lively nightlife experience.

Day 2: Day trip to Tulum

On the second day 2 of our itinerary for Cancun, we head to Tulum for a day trip. Tulum is approximately 2 hours drive from Cancun. At the height of the Mayan Empire, between the 13th and 16th centuries, Tulum was one of the last cities to be built and inhabited.

Read the Tulum Travel Guide and the 21 Ultimate Things To Do In Tulum to know more.

Tulum Ruins

Fourth on our itinerary for Cancun are the Tulum Ruins. These ruins are situated about 12 meters above Playa Ruinas along the east coast of the Yucatan Peninsula. This site was a pre-Columbian Mayan Empire that served as a port for Coba, Mexico.

The three major structures here are the El Castillo, the Temple of Frescoes, and the Temple of the Descending God. El Castillo is the highest structure here and was considered a lighthouse as it has commanding views of the ocean.

To avoid the crowds, it would be best to arrive early, preferably before 8.00 am as a queue forms once the busloads of tourists arrive.

Are there any other temples at the Tulum Ruins?

Temple of Frescoes is known for its famous fresco, that of the Mayan Diving God which is still preserved and can be viewed above the western wall entrance. This temple was used as an observatory to track the movement of the sun.

Temple of Descending God is often associated with the Mayan God of Bees named Ah Mu Zen Caab. According to Mayan religious beliefs, bees were a link to the spirit world and priests harvested their honey which was used in religious ceremonies.

Are the Tulum ruins free?

The entrance fee is $80 MXN ($4) per person. If you bring a camera, the cost is $45 MXN ($2.25) for the photography fee. The opening hours are from 8.00 am till 5.00 pm.

Chichén Itzá

Fifth in our itinerary for Cancun is Chichén Itzá. This is one of the Mayans’ largest cities and is believed to be the site of the mythological city of Tollans that is mentioned in Mesoamerican literature.

Chichén Itzá is a 2-hour drive or 93 miles from the Tulum Ruins. The meaning of Chichén Itzá is “mouth at the well of the Itza”. The meaning of Itza is “enchantment of the water”.

3 Facts About Chichén Itzá

According to The Travel, these are 3 interesting facts about Chichén Itzá:

Within the larger El Castillo or the Temple of Kukulcán lies two smaller pyramids. Check out the Second Pyramid Found Inside Kukulcan to know more.
This structure may not entirely be Mayan. It was the Toltecs that introduced the feathered serpents to the Chichén Itzá. Read Things You May Not Know About Chichén Itzá to know more.
Chichén Itzá was on privately owned land until 2010. It was purchased from an American archaeologist. The family later sold the land to the Mexican government.

What is the entrance fee for Chichén Itzá?

The entrance fee for adults is $533 MXN ($26) while for children between ages 3 and 12 are $80 MXN ($4). Mexican citizens pay $237 MXN ($12) while locals pay $80 MXN ($4).

Chichén Itzá is open from Monday to Sunday and its opening hours are from 8.00 am to 5.00 pm with the last entry being 4.00 pm.

Essential Items When Visiting Chichén Itzá

Bring a small travel umbrella.
Carry your water bottle and water purification bottle and fill up as you go. Also, carry plenty of snacks and eat as you go.
Wear your sun hat or sun visor.
It is advisable to book a Private Tour of Chichén Itzá, Coba, and the Ik Kil Cenote so that you can time travel back in time and learn about the Mayan civilization.
Avoid visiting on Sundays and Public Holidays as it may not be a peaceful experience. Locals have free access to many sites, including Chichén Itzá.

Cenote Suytun

Sixth in our itinerary for Cancun and last in our day trip to Tulum is Cenote Suytun. This cenote is about an hour’s drive from Chichén Itzá with an approximate distance of 35 miles. This cenote is the most instagrammable and most shallow cenote with depths between 1 to 5 meters (3 – 16 feet). Diving is not allowed here.

What is a cenote?

A cenote is a large natural sinkhole where the limestone bedrock has collapsed which exposes groundwater. The Cenotes of the Yucatán are an underground river system beneath the peninsula. These cenotes were formed during the Ice Age and were considered sacred by the Mayans who used cenotes as sacrificial grounds.

Can you swim in Suytun Cenote?

Yes, you can swim in Suytun Cenote. Lifejackets are mandatory if you want to swim and you can rent them for $30 MXN ($1.50). There are changing rooms available with rental for the lockers and towel rentals are $35 MXN ($1.80) each. A lifeguard is on duty at all times.

Does Suytun Cenote have an entrance fee?

The entrance fee is $120 MXN ($6) per person. Cards are not accepted, so make sure you have sufficient cash.

When is the best time to visit Suytun Cenote?

The best time to visit is between 12 pm to 2 pm when the light beam shines through the peek hole and hits the platform. Do note that the ticket office opening hours are from 9 am to 5 pm with the last entry being 4.30 pm.

Day 3: Mayan Ruins Day

Finally, we end day 3 of our itinerary for Cancun, we explore two Mayan Ruins that are within Cancun. These are the El Rey Archaeological Site and the El Meco Ruins.

El Rey Archaeological Site

Seventh in our itinerary for Cancun is El Rey Archaeological Site. This pre-Columbian site is located near the Boulevard Kukulcan Kilometer 17.5 which is near Playa Delfines and the “CANCUN” signage.

This site contains 47 structures with varying functions. Based on the remains found on site, this area could have been a royal retreat. Unlike Chichén Itzá, these ruins are smaller and are easy to see within a short time.

Is there an entrance fee to El Rey?

An entrance fee of $55 MXN ($2.75) per person. Video cameras and professional equipment are $45 MXN ($2.25) per piece of equipment. The ruins are open from 8 am to 5 pm.

The closest hotel to these ruins is Iberostar Selection Cancun.

El Meco Ruins

The eighth and last of our itinerary for Cancun are the El Meco Ruins. This well-preserved site is located north of Cancun en route to Punta Sam and Puerto Juarez. Interestingly, this site bears a resemblance to Chichén Itzá as two serpent heads are placed at the foot of the eastern entrance of El Castillo.

El Meco was once part of a larger network of coastal cities known as Costa Oriental. This city functioned as a port, a lighthouse, and a shrine to Goddess Ixchel of the island of Isla Mujeres.

What is the entrance fee for El Meco?

An entrance fee of $50 MXN ($2.50) is open daily from 8 am to 4 pm.

The closest hotel to these ruins is the All Ritmo Cancun Resort & Water Park.

What is the best month to go to Cancun Mexico?

Cancun is all about the sun, sand, and the sea. When visiting the beaches in Cancun, good weather is essential. Let’s check out the best and worst times to visit Cancun.

Best Times To Visit

The spring months of mid-March to April are especially busy with the spring break in the United States. Room rates are much higher and are best booked at least, three months in advance.

The summer months of May to August bring more rain than other seasons. If you want to dive with the whale sharks, these are the months to do it. You can also find good deals on flight and hotel bookings.

Autumn comes to Cancun during the months of September to November. Some key festivals during these months are Mexican Independence Day in September, the Day of the Dead in October, and the Riviera Maya Jazz Festival in November.

The Winter months are from December to April is the best time to visit Cancun. The weather is pleasant, clear, and warm. These months are perfect for visiting archaeological sites. And, Cancun during Christmas and New Year’s is a great place to be!

Worst Times To Visit

There are only two worst times to visit Cancun. This is the Hurricane Season between June and November and the Sargassum Season in the summer months. You can refer to the Sargassum Early Advisory System for the latest information on the location of the Sargassum.

How do you say hello in Mexico?

Hola! That’s the most basic way of saying “hello” in Mexican. A polite greeting would be based on the time of day. In this case, Buenos Dias for “good morning”, Buenos Tardes for “good afternoon”, and Buenos Noches for “good evening”.

How do you say thank you very much in Mexico?

Muchas Gracias is “thank you very much” in Mexican Spanish. A polite way would be muchas gracias, muy amable which translates to “thank you very much, you are kind.”

What are some common greetings in Mexico?

Other than the abovementioned, some common greetings are por favor for “please”, mucho gusto for “pleased to meet you”, hasta luego for “see you later”, and cuenta, por favor for “bill, please?”

Check out Crash Course: Basic Spanish Every Traveler In Mexico Needs and Essential Spanish Phrases To Learn Before You Go To Mexico.

Are there any popular Mexican sayings?

Some meaningful Mexican sayings are:

El que con lobos anda, a aullar se enseña is “he who runs with wolves will learn to howl” which means you are influenced by those you spend time with.

Al mal tiempo, buena cara means “to bad times, a good face” is about the power of positive thinking as it reminds us to stay positive, even when times are hard.

Poco a poco se anda lejos translates to “little by little, one goes far” which means that if we are committed to what we are doing, we just have to keep it, and we will go far.

Where are the best areas to stay in in Cancun?

Now it’s time to explore the best locations to stay in in Cancun. Our recommended areas are the Hotel Zone for first-timers and Riviera Cancun for families. The recommended hotels are based on luxury, mid-range, and budget hotels and hostels.

Hotel Zone for First-Timers

hotel zone, zona hotelera cancun — Photo by Gerson Repreza on Unsplash

Cancun’s Hotel Zone or Zona Hotelera is the prime tourist area in Cancun. The Hotel Zone is a 22-kilometer long stretch is divided into three zones, the North Hotel Zone, the Middle Hotel Zone, and the South Hotel Zone.

This area is full of shopping, dining, nightlife, and a handful of malls to keep you occupied. The quietest zone in the south while calm waves are at the north. The busiest in the middle zone with some nightclubs and the El Rey Ruins.