Is Tulum Expensive? Planning Your Dream Vacation

Is Tulum expensive? This is the question on many travelers' minds before planning their dream vacation to this Mexican hotspot. According to KAYAK, the cheapest month to fly from the United States to Cancun (the airport serving Tulum) is September, with tickets from places like Miami going for as low as $159 roundtrip if you know when to book.

But beyond airfare, how much should you expect to spend on accommodations, food, and activities? This quick guide will break down the costs of visiting Tulum and provide tips on saving money without sacrificing your experience. Get ready to plan a trip that fits your budget and leaves you with unforgettable memories.

Is Tulum Expensive?

When planning your dream vacation to Tulum, the question of money is bound to come up: Is Tulum expensive?

Well, the answer isn't so straightforward. While indulging in all the luxurious offerings in the Zona Hotelera can be pricey, there are also ways to make your Tulum experience budget-friendly.

Accommodation

One way to save on accommodation is by staying in a nice apartment near the city center. For around $350 to 400 per week, you can enjoy a comfortable and affordable stay.

However, if you have your heart set on a beachfront hotel in the Zona Hotelera, be prepared to spend at least $1,500 for a weeklong stay. This is typically the price per room, so you can split the cost between two people, which makes it slightly more budget-friendly.

Food

The cost of food can also vary greatly depending on where you eat. If you dine in the Zona Hotelera (where most of the best restaurants in Tulum are), you can expect to pay around $25 to 30 per person for lunch and $40 to 50 per person for dinner.

But, if you're on a budget, you can spend just $40 per day by opting for street food and local eateries. And that's one of the best parts of visiting Tulum - eating local street food!

Beach Clubs

Tulum's beach clubs are a popular attraction but can also be expensive. Plan to spend around $50 to 100 per day for amenities like loungers and umbrellas. However, if you're not interested in these luxuries, plenty of public beaches have no entry fee.

Car Rentals

Renting a car is a convenient way to explore Tulum, and it can even be affordable if you book in advance. Car rentals can be as low as $90 per week, depending on the time of year and availability.

Attractions

Tulum offers a variety of attractions that won't break the bank. For example, the entrance fee for the Tulum Ruins is around $5 per person (depending on the exchange rate). If you're interested in a guided tour (which we highly recommend; most are well worth the added expense), expect to pay more, around $100 per person.

Tips for Choosing Accommodations in Tulum

Where you stay during your trip to Tulum can make or break the experience. The right accommodations can elevate your experience, making it all the more memorable. To ensure you make the best budget-friendly choice, we've compiled a list of tips for choosing accommodations in Tulum.

Location

The location of your accommodations is a top priority when choosing a place to stay in Tulum. If you're looking to be in the thick of things, consider staying in Tulum Pueblo, the main town of Tulum. However, if you want a more secluded and peaceful experience, exploring the beach area to find your favorite spot to stay may be a better choice.

Budget

Budget plays a significant role in choosing any accommodation, and Tulum is no exception. If you're looking to save money, consider staying in Tulum Pueblo, where many affordable options exist. Likewise, many options along Tulum Beach Road cater to various budgets.

Amenities

When it comes to amenities, there are many options in Tulum, depending on your preferences. Consider whether you want a beachfront property, a pool, an on-site restaurant, or in-room amenities like air conditioning. If you don't plan to be at your hotel or accommodation much, don't spend more to get those amenities and instead enjoy time at the beach!

Reviews

The experience of other guests can be a valuable factor to consider when booking accommodations in Tulum. Look for reviews on trusted sites such as Booking.com, TripAdvisor, and Expedia. Reading reviews can help you get the full picture of what to expect.

Budget-Friendly Tips for Planning a Tulum Trip

If you're on a tight budget and looking for even more ways to plan a Tulum trip, here are some tips and tricks to save money and still have an amazing time.

Choose the Right Time to Travel

Tulum is a popular tourist destination, and as such, it can get quite crowded and expensive during peak seasons, especially in winter. However, if you're flexible with your travel dates, you can save some serious cash by traveling off-season.

This usually means traveling between May and September (or even later into fall!), when the weather is still great but the prices are much lower.

Explore like a Local

One of the best ways to save money in Tulum is to avoid eating at touristy restaurants and instead explore the local food scene. Tulum is known for its delicious street food, and trying some local specialties is a great way to experience the culture and save money on expensive restaurants.

Book Transfers in Advance

Tulum is a small town, and most attractions are within reach, so you likely won't need to rent a car. Instead, use affordable public transportation options such as buses and taxis or rent bikes to explore Tulum and nearby areas.

You will, however, need to book a transfer from the Cancun airport to the city of Tulum. It's somewhat far from Cancun (about an hour and a half to two hours, depending on the company you use), and shuttles book fast during peak season. So, snag your seat and get the best price by booking a transfer well in advance.

Explore Other Tulum Attractions

So, is Tulum expensive? With plenty of options for budget-friendly accommodations, transportation, and dining, Tulum can fit into any budget. Don't forget to check out our guides on tours and excursions to discover even more amazing Tulum attractions.