DK Travel : Cancún and the Yucatán

Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula has a special atmosphere and an immense variety of attractions, including some of the world’s best beaches and diving areas. The modern, glittering resorts of the east coast’s “Mayan Riviera” lie alongside charming old Spanish Colonial towns, sleepy Mayan villages, and the awesome remains of ancient civilizations.

1. Cancún

Mexico’s biggest resort has 23 km (14 miles) of dazzling white sand beaches, lavish hotels, every kind of restaurant, and attractions from water parks to giant nightclubs for 24-hour entertainment.
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2. Cozumel

The divers’ favorite, with over 20 coral reefs that are enjoyed by first-time snorkelers and experienced divers alike. Onshore there are fine beaches and gleaming jewelry stores.
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3. Playa del Carmen

The trendiest spot on the Riviera, with a more small-town scale than Cancún, superb swimming and snorkeling, and an ever-buzzing night-life.
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4. Isla Mujeres

A laid-back Caribbean island with a beachcomber style. It is surrounded by rich diving reefs and fishing grounds.
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5. Tulum

Here, one of the most spectacular Mayan ruins perches on a crag overlooking palm-lined sands and relaxed cabaña hotels.
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6. Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve

This almost uninhabited expanse of lakes, reefs, lagoon, man-groves, and forest is home to jaguars, monkeys, and millions of birds and rare plants.
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7. Chichén Itzá

The most awe-inspiring of all Mayan cities, Chichén’s pyramids loom over huge plazas, intricately aligned with the movements of the sun and stars.
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8. Mérida

Charming squares, shady patios, whitewashed façades, and wonderful markets make this one of the most romantic of all Mexico’s historic Colonial cities.
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9. Uxmal

The pyramids, palaces, and quadrangles of this dramatic ruined city have a special elegance and beauty, and are regarded by many as the pinnacle of ancient Mayan architecture.
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10. Campeche

The city is a remarkable survivor from the Spanish Colonial era. It includes an old section ringed by ramparts and bastions, and an astonishing museum of Mayan relics housed in an ancient fortress.
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