Affordable International Beach Getaway: Chicago to Cancun, Mexico

Day 1: Travel & Arrival

Cancun, Mexico on June 22, 2025

7:00am

Flight from Chicago to Cancun

Take an early morning direct flight from Chicago O’Hare to Cancun International Airport to maximize your first day abroad.
USD150 per person, 4h0m

12:00pm

Check-in at Budget Hotel or Hostel

Settle into affordable accommodation in downtown Cancun or near the hotel zone with easy access to the beach and public transit.
USD30 per night, 1h0m

1:30pm

Relax at Playa Tortugas

Enjoy a free, lively beach popular with locals and tourists, featuring calm waters perfect for swimming.
Free, 2h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at El Fogon

Savor authentic and reasonably priced Mexican tacos and grilled specialties at this beloved local spot open from noon to 11pm.
USD10 per person, 1h0m
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Day 2: Beach & Culture

Cancun, Mexico on June 23, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Cafe Nader

Start the day with affordable coffee, pastries, and Mexican breakfast fare at this popular downtown café.
USD7 per person, 1h0m

9:30am

Explore Downtown Cancun

Wander around Mercado 28, where you can shop for souvenirs, jewelry, and crafts at reasonable prices.
Free entry, shopping optional, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at La Parrilla

Dine on traditional Mexican dishes and enjoy live mariachi music at this well-priced restaurant open until 11pm.
USD12 per person, 1h0m

1:30pm

Visit Museo Maya de Cancun

Discover Mayan history and artifacts at this affordable and well-curated museum open 10am to 6pm.
USD5 per person, 2h0m

4:00pm

Swim at Playa Delfines

Relax at one of Cancun’s most beautiful public beaches with stunning views and free access.
Free, 2h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Tacos Rigo

Enjoy inexpensive and tasty tacos from a local favorite taco stand open late.
USD8 per person, 1h0m
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Day 3: Island Adventure

Isla Mujeres, Mexico on June 24, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Accommodation or nearby café

Grab a quick, affordable breakfast to prepare for an island day-trip.
USD5 per person, 1h0m

8:30am

Ferry to Isla Mujeres

Take a 20-minute ferry from Cancun to Isla Mujeres, known for its clear blue waters and relaxed vibe. Ferry runs approximately every 30 minutes.
USD15 round trip, 1h0m (round trip)

10:00am

Explore Playa Norte

Swim and sunbathe at one of Mexico’s most beautiful beaches with calm water, perfect for snorkeling or relaxing.
Free, 3h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Mango Café

Enjoy affordable fresh seafood and Mexican dishes in a charming garden setting open daily from 8am-8pm.
USD12 per person, 1h0m

2:30pm

Rent a Golf Cart to Explore the Island

Rent an affordable golf cart for around 3 hours to visit scenic points like Punta Sur and the underwater museum (MUSA).
USD25 per person, 3h0m

6:00pm

Return Ferry to Cancun

Take the ferry back to Cancun as the sun sets.
Included, 30m

7:00pm

Dinner at La Habichuela Downtown

Dine on affordable Caribbean and Mayan-inspired dishes in a relaxed environment. Open 12pm-11pm.
USD15 per person, 1h30m
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Day 4: Nature & Ruins

Tulum, Mexico on June 25, 2025

7:00am

Early Breakfast at Cafe Antoinette

Start the day with affordable French-Mexican breakfast in downtown Cancun open from 7am.
USD7 per person, 1h0m

8:00am

Bus to Tulum

Take a public bus (ADO) from Cancun to Tulum for a budget-friendly day trip (around 2 hours).
USD12 per person one-way, 2h0m

10:30am

Visit Tulum Ruins

Explore the seaside Mayan archaeological site with stunning views; affordable entrance fee and open 8am-5pm.
USD5 per person, 2h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Taqueria Honorio

Enjoy cheap and delicious local tacos at this popular casual spot in Tulum.
USD8 per person, 1h0m

2:30pm

Swim at Tulum Beach

Relax or snorkel at the picturesque beaches just below the ruins, a perfect afternoon break.
Free, 2h30m

5:30pm

Return Bus to Cancun

Catch the evening bus back to Cancun for overnight stay.
USD12 per person, 2h0m

8:00pm

Dinner at 100% Natural

Enjoy affordable and healthy Mexican cuisine with vegetarian options in Cancun's hotel zone until 10pm.
USD12 per person, 1h0m
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Day 5: Beach & Leisure

Cancun, Mexico on June 26, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at La Pasteleteria

Enjoy affordable coffee and pastries at this local bakery in Cancun's downtown.
USD7 per person, 1h0m

9:30am

Free Beach Day at Playa Langosta

Spend a relaxing day at this quieter public beach close to the hotel zone with clear water and soft sand.
Free, 4h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at El Granero

Taste tasty and budget-friendly Mexican food enjoyed by locals, open until 5pm.
USD10 per person, 1h0m

3:00pm

Visit Cancun Interactive Aquarium

Engage with local marine life in a small but affordable aquarium within the hotel zone, open 10am-5pm.
USD15 per person, 2h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Viva Mexico

Casual dining with good Mexican flavors and reasonable prices close to the hotel area.
USD12 per person, 1h30m
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Day 6: Last Day Relax

Cancun, Mexico on June 27, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Ah Cacao Chocolate Café

Enjoy coffee and snacks made from local chocolate at an affordable price in the hotel zone.
USD6 per person, 1h0m

9:30am

Final Beach Visit to Playa Delfines

Spend your last morning at this free iconic and scenic beach with ample space to swim and relax.
Free, 4h0m

2:00pm

Pack and prepare for departure

Return to your accommodation to pack and rest after an exciting week.
Free, 3h0m

6:00pm

Farewell Dinner at La Parrilla

Enjoy your last affordable true Mexican meal with live music in downtown Cancun before your flight.
USD15 per person, 1h30m
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Day 7: Travel Home

Cancun to Chicago, Mexico to USA on June 28, 2025

10:00am

Flight from Cancun to Chicago

Catch your return flight to Chicago, bringing back great memories from your budget-friendly international beach vacation.
USD150 per person, 4h0m
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