How to Get from Cancun to Playa del Carmen: Distance, Bus & Transfer
Compare driving distance, ADO bus times, colectivos, Tren Maya, and private transfers from Cancun and Cancun Airport to Playa del Carmen.
Cancun to Playa del Carmen is about 68 km (42 miles) south on Highway 307, typically one hour by car or ADO bus. From Cancun International Airport (CUN), the distance is about 55 km and most arrivals reach Playa in 45 to 60 minutes by private transfer or airport ADO service.
68 km
From downtown Cancun
about 1 hour
55 km
From CUN Airport
45 to 60 min
307
Highway
Riviera Maya coast
Transport options from Cancun to Playa del Carmen
ADO runs frequent coaches from Cancun downtown (CAME terminal) and from Cancun Airport to Playa del Carmen. Buses are air-conditioned and reliable. Downtown departures drop near Quinta Avenida; airport buses save a taxi if you are heading straight to Playa.
Private transfers pick you up at Cancun Airport or your Hotel Zone resort and drop at your Playa del Carmen address, including Playacar, Quinta Avenida, and the ferry pier. Fixed pricing and meet-and-greet at arrivals work well for families and late arrivals.
Colectivos run along Highway 307 between Cancun and Playa del Carmen. They depart when full from downtown Cancun and stop on request along the Riviera Maya. Faster than a local bus, less comfortable than ADO, and cash only.
The coastal highway is a well-maintained four-lane road. Traffic can slow through central Playa del Carmen. Parking near Quinta Avenida is paid in most central lots. Tren Maya serves the corridor for rail travelers connecting Cancun and Playa stations when schedules fit your plan.
Planning your Playa del Carmen base
Most travelers use Playa del Carmen as a walkable Riviera Maya base between Cancun and Tulum, with ferry access to Cozumel and easy day trips inland. For beaches, Quinta Avenida, ferries, and what to do once you arrive, see our Playa del Carmen destination guide.
Arriving at Cancun Airport? Compare fixed-price private transfers from Cancun Airport to Playa del Carmen if you want door-to-door service straight to your hotel or Airbnb.
Frequently Asked Questions
Plan Your Arrival or Riviera Maya Base
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