Flights from Chicago (MDW) to Cancun (CUN) from USD94

Before you trade skyscrapers for palm trees, it's a good idea to prep for a smooth and stress-free flight. Here's what to consider:

• Packing tips: Bring swimwear, light layers, and a light rain jacket just in case. A waterproof phone pouch and water shoes can also come in handy for outdoor activities and excursions.
• Weather check: Wondering what’s the weather in Cancun? It’s warm year-round, but summer brings short rain bursts. Winter and spring are dry, sunny, and ideal for sightseeing and swimming.
• Travel documents: U.S. citizens need a valid passport. Airlines will also provide a Mexican visitor form (FMM), which you'll keep until departure.
• Airport timing: O’Hare International can get crowded, especially at peak hours. Arrive at least 3 hours before your international flight.
• Luggage rules: Check your Volaris fare to confirm what's included. Pack light to avoid additional fees and move through customs faster.
• Before boarding: Have time to spare? There are plenty of things to do in Chicago near the airport, from visiting local art installations to grabbing deep-dish pizza before takeoff.

Landing at Cancun International Airport (CUN) puts you about 25 minutes from the Hotel Zone. The airport is modern and efficient, and customs typically moves quickly for arriving U.S. passengers.

After baggage claim, head toward ground transportation. Options for transportation from Cancun airport include private shuttles, ride-share apps, and prepaid taxis—look for authorized service counters inside the terminal to avoid confusion.

If you’re wondering what time is in Cancun, note that the city is in Eastern Standard Time (EST), which is often one hour ahead of Chicago depending on daylight saving time. Be sure to update your devices once you land.

Cancun offers more than beaches—it’s packed with food, nature, and local culture. Here are a few key areas and activities to explore while you're there:

• Playa Delfines: One of the best beaches in Cancun, perfect for photos, relaxing in the sun, or watching surfers ride the waves. It also features the famous “Cancún” sign.
• Nichupté Lagoon: Ideal for kayaking, jet skiing, or catching a sunset boat ride.
• Ventura Park: A family-friendly amusement park near the Hotel Zone with slides, zip lines, and go-karts.
• Museo Maya: An indoor museum on Mayan civilization with outdoor archaeological sites.
• Mercado 28: A downtown market full of souvenirs and local food—perfect for practicing your Spanish and supporting artisans.
• Isla Mujeres Tour: Take a catamaran to Isla Mujeres, known for crystal-clear water and snorkeling.

Itinerary

• Day 1: Sun & Sand:
  • Relax at Playa Delfines and explore the beachside ruins of El Rey.
  • Try fish tacos and agua fresca at one of the top food places in Cancun.
  • Watch the sunset from your hotel balcony or take a walk by the shore.
• Day 2: Culture & Adventure:
  • Spend the morning at Museo Maya and stroll through its outdoor paths.
  • Take a boat trip to Isla Mujeres for snorkeling and beach lounging.
  • Go downtown to Mercado 28 and try some street snacks while you enjoy the evening vibes.
• Day 3: Offbeat Exploration & Local Flavor:
  • Start your day at El Meco Archaeological Site—less crowded and rich with history.
  • Rent a kayak or join a guided ride through Nichupté Lagoon for a peaceful midday escape.
  • Wind down with dinner at La Habichuela and enjoy a stroll through Parque Kabah, a quiet eco-park popular with locals.

• The best time to visit Cancun is between December and April—sunny skies, cooler temps, and fewer mosquitoes.
• For authentic cuisine, ask locals about their favorite food places in Cancun beyond the Hotel Zone. Two top picks are El Pocito, known for Yucatecan dishes like cochinita pibil and panuchos, and La Habichuela, a local favorite for Caribbean seafood and Mayan-inspired flavors in a charming garden setting.
• If you're seeking romance, check into one of the best hotels in Cancun for couples, many of which offer spa packages and rooftop views.
• Planning ahead helps—some of the best things to do in Cancun (like Chichen Itzá tours) book out early.
• Want to squeeze in some last-minute sightseeing? Don’t miss what to see in Chicago on your return day if you have a layover—Millennium Park and the Riverwalk are both near downtown.