Playa del Carmen , Mexico

Playa del Carmen Walking Food Tour

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(1200 reviews)

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About this experience

This is an authentic local experience in local Mexican food. Perfect for couples, groups of friends, or families. We walk through the main artery of the city to fill us with typical flavors and smells of Mexico: street stations and restaurants that the locals frequent. A unique and incomparable experience with a knowledgable guide that accompanies you in this three-hour tour around the city, typically away from tourist places. If you have an adventurous spirit and want to taste the authentic flavors of Mexico and it's people, this is the tour for you. Join us!

Available options

Local Walking Food Tour

What's included

History of Playa del Carmen and Surroundings

Local Bilingual Guide

Beverages

Tips for Local Restaurant Waiters

Vegetarian Option Available

Food Tasting

Street Art of Playa del Carmen

Detailed itinerary

Meeting point

We continue on our way to have some locally handmade quesadillas with a special surprise ingredient!

We’ll stop by a family-run market where they stock hard-to-find and seasonal fruits, vegetables and fresh-squeezed juices, where you’ll be able to learn all about these exotic foods from your expert guide.

We are on our way again to a locally-operated fruit and veggie market, which houses many exotic fruits that are typical to Mexican farming and cuisine. It is at this market, located in downtown Playa del Carmen, where we are going to try local fruit juices, which is also a typical refreshment the locals enjoy daily. Afterward, your guide will lead you towards one of the best Taquerias in town, at which point tacos are served!

We walk through this plaza to find some tacos al pastor at one of our favorite food stands.

At this stop we'll try some mole.

We'll finish the tour with some local popsicles and icecreams.

What's not included

Gratuities

Transportation to/from meeting point

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.9

283 reviews

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264

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Tripadvisor 4.9

917 reviews

5★

878

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1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Tours are held rain, shine, and in all temperatures year round. We reserve the right to cancel a tour due to weather if safety is threatened.

Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required.

Stringent Cleaning - Hand sanitizer will be available to all of our guests at all times during the activities.

Social Distancing - Guests will stay at a safe 4-foot distance during all points of the tour. We also ensure that all staff members will be wearing the necessary PPE.

Wellness Checks - Employees receive daily wellness checks to ensure they are healthy and symptom-free. If you or anyone in your group is experiencing symptoms, we will work directly with you to cancel or reschedule your tour.

Meeting point

Corner of 5th Avenue and Juarez Avenue, outside ADO Bus Station

Important notes

• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended

About Playa del Carmen

Playa del Carmen is a vibrant coastal city in Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula, known for its stunning beaches, turquoise waters, and rich Mayan heritage. It's a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, offering everything from world-class resorts to ancient ruins and vibrant nightlife.

Top Attractions

Quinta Avenida (Fifth Avenue)

A vibrant pedestrian street stretching over 20 blocks, lined with shops, restaurants, bars, and street performers. It's the heart of Playa del Carmen's nightlife and shopping scene.

Cultural/Shopping/Entertainment Half day to full day Free to explore, shopping and dining vary

Xcaret Park

An eco-archaeological park offering a mix of natural beauty, cultural performances, and adventure activities. It's one of the most famous attractions in the Riviera Maya.

Nature/Adventure/Cultural Full day Moderate to Expensive (around $100-$150 USD)

Cenote Azul

A stunning natural sinkhole with crystal-clear turquoise waters, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. It's a popular spot for a refreshing dip in the jungle.

Nature/Adventure Half day Budget (around $5-$10 USD for entrance and gear rental)

Tulum Ruins

Ancient Mayan ruins perched on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a breathtaking blend of history and natural beauty.

Historical/Archaeological Half day to full day Budget (around $10-$15 USD for entrance)

Musa (Museo Subacuático de Arte)

An underwater museum featuring over 500 life-sized sculptures submerged in the waters off Playa del Carmen. It's a unique snorkeling and diving experience.

Art/Nature/Adventure Half day Moderate (around $50-$80 USD for snorkeling tours)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Cochinita Pibil

A traditional Yucatecan dish made with marinated pork, slow-cooked in banana leaves. It's tender, flavorful, and often served with pickled onions and habanero salsa.

Main Course Contains pork, gluten-free if no marinade contamination

Ceviche

A fresh seafood dish made with raw fish or shrimp marinated in lime juice, mixed with tomatoes, onions, and cilantro. It's a refreshing and light dish perfect for the tropical climate.

Appetizer Gluten-free, dairy-free, can be made vegetarian with vegetables

Tacos al Pastor

Marinated pork cooked on a vertical spit and served on corn tortillas with pineapple, onions, and cilantro. It's a popular street food dish with a unique blend of sweet and savory flavors.

Street Food Contains pork, gluten-free if no marinade contamination

Panuchos

A Yucatecan specialty made with fried tortillas stuffed with refried beans and topped with shredded chicken, pickled onions, and habanero salsa. It's a flavorful and satisfying snack.

Appetizer Contains chicken, gluten-free if no cross-contamination

Popular Activities

Snorkeling Scuba diving Cenote exploration Zip-lining ATV tours Beach relaxation Spa treatments Yoga

Best Time to Visit

December to April

This is the most popular time to visit with perfect weather, low humidity, and minimal rain. It's ideal for beach activities, exploring ruins, and enjoying outdoor adventures.

24-30°C 75-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Spanish
Widely spoken: English
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in other parts

Currency

Mexican Peso (MXN)

Time Zone

Eastern Standard Time (EST) (GMT-5), Eastern Daylight Time (EDT) (GMT-4) during daylight saving time

Electricity

127VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe for tourists, but exercise caution

Playa del Carmen is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur, especially in crowded areas and tourist hotspots. Exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings.

Important Precautions:

• Use official taxis or pre-arranged transportation
• Be cautious of strangers approaching you with offers or requests
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight

Getting there

By air

Cancun International Airport • 70 km (43 miles)

By bus

ADO Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the most common and affordable way to get around. They are frequent and cover most areas.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Didi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Downtown (Centro) Playacar Zona Hotelera Colosio

Day trips

Cozumel

80 km (50 miles) off the coast • Full day

A beautiful island known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and world-class diving and snorkeling. It's a popular day trip from Playa del Carmen.

Tulum

60 km (37 miles) south • Half day to full day

A charming town with ancient Mayan ruins, beautiful beaches, and a bohemian vibe. It's a popular destination for history lovers, beachgoers, and nature enthusiasts.

Akumal

30 km (19 miles) south • Half day

A small coastal village known for its beautiful beaches and clear waters, as well as its population of wild sea turtles. It's a great spot for snorkeling and relaxation.

Festivals

Festival of the Mayan Culture • November Playa del Carmen International Film Festival • November Carnaval de Playa del Carmen • February or March (dates vary)

Pro tips

Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and heat at popular attractions
Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals
Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun with sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses
Use official taxis or pre-arranged transportation to avoid scams and ensure safety
Explore beyond the tourist hotspots to discover the authentic culture and beauty of Playa del Carmen