Where to Stay in Downtown Cancun for Budget Travellers

August 12, 2025
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Cancun is known for its stunning white beaches, vibrant nightlife and proximity to Chichén Itzá. But did you know that you could do all that on a budget? Staying in downtown Cancun means you get affordable accommodation while still being able to easily access the beaches and tours.

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Where to stay in Downtown Cancun:

Cancun is famous for its hotel zone and proximity to the world wonder Chichén Itzá, but did you know it is also accessible for budget backpackers? I stayed in Cancun on a layover and saved a ton of money by staying downtown rather than in the famous hotel mile by the beaches.

You can still reach the beach in less than 30 minutes by local bus (R1,2) for just 12 Pesos ($0.60). I also did a budget-friendly tour to Chichén Itzá which had a pickup place near downtown.

Affordable hostels in Downtown Cancun

Nomads Hotel & Rooftop Pool and Nomads Party Hostel – Both Nomads hostels in downtown have great reviews, lots of things going on and lovely staff. I personally stayed in the Party Hostel as it was slightly cheaper, but it was a little chaotic. I think the Rooftop one may have a more chill vibe.

Humant Coliving – Perfect for solo travellers who appreciate a little more privacy and relaxed atmosphere but at a budget price. Reviews rave about this place.

Caleta Hostel – this hostel is right by the ADO bus station and a supermarket and has a rooftop pool bar. Dorms are nice and it’s good for the price.

Budget-friendly hotels in Downtown Cancun

$ Hotel Los Girasoles – A great budget hotel with nice rooms. The location is good for day exploration but best avoided at night.

$ Casa Luna – Another amazing, budget-friendly option with a swimming pool and even family rooms.

$ Mezcal Hotel Cancun – Such a great choice in the downtown area, Mezcal offers a pool, nice rooms and friendly staff.

$$ Hotel 28 Cancun – Super modern hotel with spacious rooms and pool.

$$ Bed and Breakfast Pecarí – This B&B in downtown Cancun excels in its reviews with some saying it feels like home.

$$ Krystal Urban Cancún & Beach Club – This hotel is great value for money and has amazing views.

How to get to Cancun?

You will likely be landing at Cancun Airport. The cheapest way to get to the city centre is by ADO bus.

Word of warning: Beware of scams!!! I walked out of arrivals and was swarmed by fake taxis and people with some sort of ADO t-shirts and clipboards, looking official. They took me to an area outside and told me the next bus wasn’t for 2 hours and I needed to wait for other people so they could fill a shuttle that was only slightly more expensive.

Thankfully I felt weird and went back inside and found someone with an official vest (be careful, even inside the scammers are everywhere) who took me to the actual ADO bus station which came in less than 15 minutes. There are official ADO info stands inside which can help you if you feel lost, don’t trust anyone telling you they are ADO.

The bus cost around $7 (130MXN) and took me to a station in Downtown Cancun from where it was a 15-minute walk to my hostel.

Some hotels also have shuttle buses from the airport, so it is worth asking when booking. The buses are super safe and affordable but the shuttles are quicker and easier if available.

How many days do you need in Cancun?

I had a two day layover in Cancun where I did a daytrip to Chichen Itza and spent the other day on the beach. Cancun itself isn’t the most interesting area of Mexico, but the beaches are stunning and the food is great. I would recommend around 5 day if you are after a beach holiday.