How to Get to Tulum Mexico: My Experience & The Easiest Ways To Get There (2025)

Tulum is one of the most beautiful beach towns on the Riviera Maya and honestly one of my personal favorites in all of Mexico. Since it’s become such a popular vacation spot, I get asked all the time: How to get to Tulum?

These days, you’ve got a couple of different options. You can now fly directly into the brand-new Tulum International Airport, or you can still do what most people (including me, on several trips) have done: fly into Cancún and make your way down to Tulum by shuttle, bus, or private transfer.

I’ve visited Tulum quite a few times over the years and I’ve tried different ways of getting there, so I feel like I can give you a clear picture of what’s easiest, what’s worth the money, and what I’d do again. Let’s get into it.

How to Get to Tulum Mexico – My Experience

I’ll admit it, I’m pretty old school when it comes to getting to Tulum. I’ve always flown into Cancún International Airport and then either hopped on a bus or booked a shuttle. It’s the classic way of doing it, and honestly, it works really well. 

That being said, with the newer options now available, like the Maya Express train from Cancún or the brand-new Tulum International Airport, I’m tempted to try something different on my next trip.

So far, my go-to has been flying into Cancún and then catching an ADO bus, which is basically the bus company in Mexico. I’ve used ADO all over the country, and they’re great with super comfortable seats, air conditioning (a must), and very easy to figure out even if it’s your first time in Mexico. 

On my most recent trip, though, I switched things up and booked a private shuttle transfer. That was by far the easiest option because we were picked up right at the airport and dropped straight at our hotel in Tulum. Since I was traveling with a bigger group, splitting the cost made it surprisingly affordable.

In this guide, I’ll also cover the two options I haven’t personally tried yet, flying directly into Tulum’s airport and taking the Maya train, since I know a lot of people are curious about them. Even if those aren’t perfect yet, the good news is that getting to Tulum is super straightforward.

1. Taking the Bus to Tulum (ADO Bus)

As I mentioned earlier, taking the bus to Tulum is super straightforward, I’ve done it many times, both to Tulum and all over Mexico. The company is called ADO, and if you’ve ever used Flixbus in Europe or Greyhound in the U.S., it’s basically the Mexican version of that. Comfortable, reliable, and easy.

I usually book my ticket in advance on ado.com.mx (the website is available in English), pay online, and just keep the ticket saved on my phone. Once you land in Cancún, there’s actually an ADO station right at the arrivals area, so you don’t even have to leave the airport. From there, the bus goes straight to Tulum Downtown.

When I was staying in downtown Tulum, I could just walk from the bus station to my hotel, which made it super convenient. But whenever I stayed in the Hotel Zone by the beach, I had to take a taxi from downtown. That’s the one downside, it’s by far the cheapest way to get to Tulum, but after a long international flight, adding a two-hour bus ride plus another taxi can feel like a bit of a mission.

2. Take a Private Shuttle/Transfer

On my most recent trip to Tulum, a bit of a special occasion, I stayed at one of the most beautiful hotels I’ve ever been to, The Beach Tulum Hotel, right on Tulum Beach. Since this trip was more about luxury and relaxation than backpacking, I decided to skip the bus and book a private transfer instead.

And honestly, it was seamless from start to finish. We booked our transfer from Cancún Airport through Viator (though many hotels can also arrange it directly). As soon as we landed, our driver was already waiting for us at arrivals, holding a little sign with my name on it, which, not gonna lie, made me feel kind of fancy. He helped us with the luggage, handed us cold bottles of water, and then we sank into comfy seats with AC for the two-hour drive.

The best part was that we were dropped off right at our hotel entrance. No taxi transfers, no dragging bags through Tulum Downtown, just straight to the beach. For me, it was worth every peso, especially for a beach vacation where I didn’t want to start things off stressed or sweaty.

I’ll link the transfer service I used (and a couple of other reliable options) below so you can book one too:

Book Here: Luxury Transport from Cancun Airport to Tulum

Book Here: Budget Private Minivan

3. Take the Train to Tulum from Cancun (Tren Maya)

I’ll be honest: I haven’t personally taken the Tren Maya yet, so this is based on a lot of reading and traveler reports rather than my own experience. The Maya Train was launched in 2023 with the big idea of connecting tourist destinations all across the Yucatán Peninsula, but from what I’ve heard so far, the execution hasn’t exactly been flawless.

The main issues people talk about are delays, irregular schedules, and stations that are often located far outside the actual tourist areas, which means you’ll still need extra transport to get where you’re going. Because of that, I don’t think it’s the most practical option right now if you’re just trying to get from Cancún Airport down to Playa del Carmen or Tulum.

For longer distances (say, if you’re heading further into the Yucatán), the train might make more sense. But for now, if the goal is simply Cancún → Tulum, I’d stick with what’s proven to work: either the ADO bus or a private shuttle. They’re easier, faster, and a lot less of a gamble.

4. Fly Into Tulum International Airport

Very recently, Tulum got its own international airport which is a game-changer for travelers like us. I haven’t flown into it yet myself, but for convenience alone, I’ll probably give it a try on my next trip.

The airport officially opened in 2023, with its first international flights landing in 2024. At the moment, most routes seem to be coming from the U.S., but it makes things so much easier since you no longer have to deal with the extra bus or shuttle ride from Cancún.

I’m not entirely sure yet whether long-haul flights, like from Europe, will start coming in directly, but it’s definitely worth checking. These days I always compare prices, flying into Tulum versus Cancún plus the transfer, because sometimes the difference is smaller than you’d expect. Either way, having this new airport as an option is a huge win, and I honestly can’t wait to try it myself.

More Travel Tips for Visiting Tulum Mexico

• When to visit Tulum: I always keep an eye on dates because timing really matters here. I personally avoid seaweed season (April–October) and hurricane season (around November). My go-to months are December and January and yes, it’s pricier, but it’s also when the beaches are at their best.
  
• Location matters: Tulum is basically split into two parts, the Downtown Tulum and Tulum Beach (the hotel zone). They’re about 2.5 miles apart, so if you’re dreaming of a beach vacation, I’d recommend staying right on Tulum Beach. Downtown is great too, but you’ll need a taxi or bike to get to the ocean.
  
• Tulum can get pricey: With Tulum becoming more popular (and now with its own airport), hotel prices keep climbing. I’d suggest planning ahead and booking early if you want the best deals, especially in high season.
  
• Stay safe: Tulum is generally safe for tourists, but it has had issues with drug-related crime. Just use common sense, don’t buy drugs, stay aware at night, and avoid sketchy situations.

Best Places to Stay in Tulum Mexico

As I mentioned earlier, Tulum is basically split into two main areas: Tulum Downtown and the Hotel Zone by the beach. Click here to check out my full guide on Where to Stay in Tulum Mexico!

• Downtown Tulum is where you’ll find affordable boutique hotels, hostels, street food stalls, and lively bars. It’s definitely the better option if you’re backpacking, traveling on a budget, or just want a more local and authentic vibe.
  
• The Hotel Zone (Tulum Beach), on the other hand, is where you’ll find the stunning boutique resorts, luxury stays, trendy restaurants, and beach clubs that Tulum is famous for.
  

I’ve stayed in both and honestly enjoyed each for different reasons. Downtown is fun and cheap, but it’s about a 15–20 minute ride to the beach. The Hotel Zone, though, is pure magic if you want to wake up right on the sand and have that dreamy “Tulum experience.”

Here are some hotels and resorts in Tulum that I really recommend:

Book Here: The Beach Tulum Hotel

Book Here: Casa Agape Hotel Tulum

FAQs About How to Get to Tulum

How do you get to Tulum from Cancun?

The easiest way is by taking an ADO bus, either from Cancun International Airport or from the downtown ADO station in Cancun. Both options are straightforward and budget-friendly.

Can I fly directly to Tulum?

Yes! As of recently, Tulum has its own international airport with direct flights (mostly from the U.S. for now). This makes getting to Tulum much easier compared to the old days of always having to go through Cancun.

How do you get around in Tulum?

I usually rent a bicycle, which is such a fun way to move between downtown, the beaches, and the ruins. Plus, it saves you from paying the overpriced taxi fares.

How to get to Tulum from USA?

As of recently there is direct flights from Houston and Atlanta straight into Tulum International Airport.

What’s the best way to get from Cancun Airport to Tulum?

If you’re staying in the Hotel Zone, I recommend booking a private transfer so you’re dropped off right at your hotel. If you’re staying downtown, the ADO bus is also a super easy and affordable option.

Final Thoughts on Transportation to Tulum

I personally love the ADO buses in Mexico, they’re comfortable, cheap, and easy to use, so I’ll always choose them when it makes sense. That said, when I stayed in the Hotel Zone, having a private transfer drop me right at my hotel was a luxury I really appreciated.

As for the Maya Train, I think it’s still a work in progress. Maybe in a few years it’ll be worth considering, but right now it just doesn’t feel reliable.

And the new Tulum International Airport? I haven’t flown into it yet, but I’m definitely planning to on my next trip, it sounds like such a convenient option.

I hope this little guide gives you a clear idea of how to get to Tulum and what’s the easiest way depending on your travel style.