A Complete Guide to Chetumal: Best Hotels, Restaurants & Transportation

Discover everything you need to know about visiting Chetumal, Mexico, including where to stay, what to do, and how to get around, plus useful travel tips, in this complete guide.

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The relaxed, bayfront capital of Quintana Roo, Chetumal has a very different vibe from the busy resorts up north – it’s not mass tourism focused, but it’s not boring either. We visited Chetumal on our second Mexico backpacking trip, as we headed south. Instead of just crashing out in a bed for the night, we went out and explored the city, from its museums and markets to its waterfront malecón. It might be more commonly used as a one-night stopover, but it’s a pretty underrated place away from the flashy tourist destinations in the north of the state. We’ve amalgamated everything you need to know about visiting Chetumal, from how to get here and how to get around to the best hotels, restaurants, and activities, in this comprehensive travel guide.

About Chetumal

Chetumal is home to wide boulevards, colourful neighbourhoods, and a long Malecón (waterfront promenade) that is great for evening walks. It’s a government and commercial hub, so it’s not the most popular place to stay in eastern Mexico, but it’s a useful transit hub if you’re backpacking Central America and crossing the border between Mexico and Belize. It’s also the gateway to the southern reaches of the Yucatán Peninsula, making it a practical base for exploring lesser-visited ruins and coastal areas.

Chetumal History

Chetumal’s history is shaped by Mayan heritage, colonial encounters, and its strategic position on the bay. The region was once home to several Mayan communities, including the Chactemal kingdom, a chiefdom centred around the bay area.

During the colonial period (roughly 1520s-1821), the region became difficult for Spain to control due to its dense jungles and the fierce resistance of the Maya, who continued to fight throughout the Caste War in the 19th century.

The modern city was officially founded in 1898 by Othón P. Blanco, who established a military outpost. Originally known as Payo Obispo, to reinforce Mexico’s presence near the border after years of disputes with British Honduras (now Belize). Much of the early settlement was built with wooden Caribbean-style architecture due to its coastal location and cultural influence from Belize, but hurricanes repeatedly destroyed many buildings, shaping the city’s transition into a more modern, concrete-built capital.

In 1936, the town was renamed Chetumal to honour its Maya roots, and when Quintana Roo officially became a state in 1974, Chetumal was chosen as its capital. Over the decades, the city has grown into a cultural and administrative hub.

Where is Chetumal?

Chetumal sits at the far southern end of the state of Quintana Roo and is just a short drive from the Mexico-Belize border. The city is tucked along the sheltered Bay of Chetumal (Bahía de Chetumal) rather than the open Caribbean Sea, which gives its waterfront a calmer, more lagoon-like feel.

It’s about 235 miles (380 km) south of Cancún, making it one of the most southerly cities in the Yucatán Peninsula. Because it’s located on Federal Highway 307, Chetumal is easy to reach from major towns like Bacalar, Mahahual, and Tulum.

Chetumal Map

We’ve pinned all the key attractions, top hotels, and restaurants in Chetumal on the interactive map below.

Why visit Chetumal?

In all honesty, there’s very little reason for travellers to visit Chetumal unless they’re crossing between Mexico and Belize. Although some people use Chetumal as a base for day trips or quiet adventures in nature, the city itself is pretty low-key.

But that’s not to say the city doesn’t have anything to see or do once you’re here. There are lots of fun things to do in Chetumal. Those who stay can enjoy its calm, authentic atmosphere and its convenient location for exploring the southern Caribbean coast.

Because it’s not a major resort destination, prices tend to be more reasonable than in the rest of the state, and the overall experience feels way more local. If you’re looking for a quieter, more grounded side of the Yucatán, this is where you’ll find it.

Where to stay in Chetumal

Chetumal’s actually quite a large, sprawling city, but you’re going to want to base yourself in the compact downtown area or along the waterfront. This is where all the main hotels, restaurants, and transport hubs are.

Prices are generally much lower than in Quintana Roo’s beach destinations, which makes Chetumal a good spot for budget-minded travellers or anyone passing through on the way to Belize.

You’ll find everything from simple guesthouses to modern hotels, plus a few boutique-style stays that feel more personal. Most properties offer air-conditioning (which is important in this part of Mexico) and free Wi-Fi. Here are our top hotels in Chetumal.

Where to eat in Chetumal

Chetumal has a genuinely local food scene that feels refreshingly different from the resort-focused dining further north. You’ll find plenty of casual spots serving Belizean-influenced dishes, regional Mexican staples, and fresh Caribbean seafood. Prices are very reasonable, and many places stay open late, especially around the waterfront and downtown.

Street food is also a big part of the experience here, from tacos and tamales to marquesitas in the evenings. You’ll find vendors in the small plaza by the flag monument (Monumento a la Bandera y Reloj) and along the Malecón. You absolutely have to get a marquesita (a rolled-up, crispy crepe-style dessert from the Yucatán region) with cheese and Nutella – the classic combo. We thought locals were messing with us when we first heard of it, but it’s an amazing combination.

Chetumal Restaurants

As Chetumal’s not super catered to tourists, there aren’t loads of restaurants to choose from, but you’ll find several popular local spots, among some really cool, little urban cafés, too. Here are our top picks:

How to get to Chetumal from within Mexico

Chetumal is well connected to the rest of southeastern Mexico, so getting here is generally straightforward, whether you prefer to drive, book a shuttle, or take a long-distance bus. Most people arrive from nearby cities like Bacalar and Tulum, but it’s also easy to reach Chetumal from bigger hubs like Mérida or Cancún.

By car

Driving to Chetumal is one of the easiest ways to explore this part of Mexico, especially if you’re road-tripping around the Yucatán Peninsula. Federal Highway 307 connects Chetumal directly with towns like Bacalar, Tulum, Playa del Carmen, and Cancún, and the roads are well-maintained for the whole route. Most of the drive is on straight, open highway, with plenty of petrol stations and minimarts along the way.

Parking in Chetumal is simple and usually free, especially around residential areas and downtown streets. Just make sure you avoid driving long stretches at night, as rural roads can be poorly lit.

While it’s possible to pick up from somewhere like Cancún and drop off in Chetumal, we struggled with getting a car rental without having to pay a huge one-way fee. If you’re continuing on to Belize, renting a car isn’t a very practical or cost-effective option.

By shuttle

Chetumal shuttles run between the city and popular destinations along the coastline like Bacalar, Mahahual, and Tulum. These services are more comfortable than a colectivo and often include hotel pick-ups, which is ideal if you don’t want to manage your luggage on public transport.

Private shuttles can be arranged if you want a personalised service, and are great for groups or families. Shared vans run on set schedules, usually a few times a day, and must be booked in advance during busy seasons, but are more affordable for backpackers and those with more flexibility in their itinerary.

By bus

Buses are the most popular way to get to Chetumal, especially if you’re coming from larger cities like Mérida, Campeche, Cancún, or Tulum. ADO is the main long-distance operator in this region, offering air-conditioned coaches with comfortable seating and onboard restrooms. Routes run throughout the day, and journeys are usually reliable, reasonably priced, and much smoother than some we’ve experienced at home in the UK.

Don’t do what we did and take the bus to the Chetumal ADO terminal, as it’s nowhere near the centre of town. We ended up hopping in a taxi with no seatbelts to get to the town centre in 10 minutes. The bus terminal near the centre is ADO Chetumal Centro – check this is the one your bus is going to.

For very short trips, colectivos (shared minivans used by locals) also run into Chetumal, but they’re often crowded, and you won’t be able to take lots of luggage on them.

By train

Chetumal is connected to the new Tren Maya network, which links the city with destinations across the Yucatán Peninsula. The trains are modern, air-conditioned, and perfect for getting between cities, with comfortable seating and spacious luggage areas. We took the route south from Cancún to Bacalar, which is one stop short of Chetumal. The station is at the airport, so you’ll still need to connect to the city via taxi or bus.

By taxi

You can take a taxi to Chetumal from nearby towns, though it’s going to be really expensive. Taxis don’t typically use metres in this region, so you’ll need to agree on a fair price before starting your trip. It’s easier and more cost-effective to take a shuttle.

How to get to Chetumal from outside Mexico

If you’re coming from abroad, you’ll likely reach Chetumal either by flying directly into the local airport or by crossing overland from Belize. Because the city sits right on the border, it’s a major entry point for visitors exploring both countries.

By plane

Chetumal International Airport (CTM) receives domestic flights from several major Mexican cities and occasional seasonal international services. Most international travellers reach Chetumal by connecting through Mexico City, Guadalajara, or Monterrey. The airport is small but easy to navigate. From the airport, it’s only about 10-15 minutes to Downtown Chetumal via taxi or shuttle. It’s often cheaper to fly into Cancún or Mérida and continue by ADO bus, but flying directly is the fastest way to get here.

By ferry

You can reach Chetumal by water taxi from San Pedro or Caye Caulker in Belize, one of the easiest border crossings in the region. Ferries run daily, and the trip takes around 90 minutes across the calm waters of Chetumal Bay.

Immigration procedures are handled at both ends, and everything is clearly signposted. Once you arrive at the Chetumal pier, you can simply walk to your accommodation, or taxis are readily available to take you into town or onward to Bacalar.

We took the ferry from Chetumal to San Pedro and have written up everything you need to know about the crossing in its own guide.

How to get around Chetumal

Chetumal is an easygoing city, so getting around doesn’t feel stressful or complicated. Distances in the centre are short, traffic is light compared to other Mexican cities, and most of the main areas travellers visit sit close together.

On foot

Chetumal is a very walkable city, especially around the waterfront, the main couple of museums, and the downtown grid. Pavements are generally well-kept, and the streets feel safe during the day, with plenty of cafés, shops, and taquerías to dip into along the way. It’s easy to get by just on foot if you’re staying in the centre. The heat can be intense in the afternoons, so walking is most comfortable early in the morning or later in the day.

By taxi

Taxis are widely available throughout Chetumal and are an easy, inexpensive way to get around when you don’t feel like walking. There aren’t really any Uber drivers in Chetumal, and we could never find a ride, so you’re stuck with traditional taxis. They don’t use metres, so it’s normal to agree on the price before you start the ride, but fares within the centre are usually very reasonable. You can flag taxis down on the street, ask your hotel to call one, or pick one up at busy spots like the market or bus station. Official taxis will display clear markings and their permit number on the side of the vehicle

By bus

Local buses and colectivos run throughout Chetumal and into nearby neighbourhoods, and they’re the cheapest way to get around. Routes are frequent during the day and connect the centre with residential zones, shopping areas, and the ADO bus terminal. Vehicles are basic but reliable, and fares are low, making them a good option for budget travellers. While we used the ADO bus to get to Chetumal, we didn’t go anywhere further afield, so we didn’t have to use the local bus system.

By car

Driving is one of the easiest ways to get around Chetumal, especially if you’re planning day trips to the wider region, but if you’re just staying in the city, you won’t need one. Roads are wide and well-marked, and traffic is usually light outside of school pick-up hours. Renting a car in Chetumal gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace, and the highways around Chetumal are in good condition. Just keep an eye out for speed bumps (topes), which appear often and sometimes without signage.

When to visit Chetumal

Chetumal is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is generally between December and April, when the weather is warm, dry, and comfortable. Humidity is lower during these months, and you’ll get clearer skies for exploring the waterfront or taking day trips. We visited in February, and the weather was sunny but stinking hot!

The city doesn’t experience the same high-season crowds you’ll find in Cancún or Tulum, so even during winter holidays, it still feels relaxed. May and June bring rising temperatures and heavier humidity, which can make afternoons feel particularly warm.

Hurricane season runs from June to November, and although storms aren’t guaranteed, you’ll want to keep an eye on the weather forecast, especially if you’re planning on taking the ferry to or from Belize. Prices for hotels tend to drop slightly during the hotter and wetter months, so it can be a good time to visit if you’re on a budget.

Chetumal weather

Chetumal has a tropical climate, which means warm temperatures throughout the year and a clear distinction between dry and rainy seasons.

How long to spend in Chetumal

Most travellers don’t spend longer than 1 night in Chetumal, as they’re simply transiting to or from Belize. 2-3 days is usually enough time to explore the waterfront, check out the museums, and enjoy a relaxed evening in the city.

If you’re using Chetumal as a base for day trips, especially to Bacalar, Mahahual, or the Kohunlich ruins, and not staying anywhere further north, you’ll want 4-5 days to avoid feeling rushed.

Is Chetumal worth visiting?

Let’s be real, you’re probably not going to visit Chetumal unless you’re transiting to or from Belize. You might consider it as a base if you prefer quieter, more authentic destinations over the typical tourist hotspots, but it just doesn’t have the appeal and attractions of other towns – the sea isn’t as beautiful, there’s less to do, day trips are longer journeys, and it’s harder to get to.

However, the city’s laidback vibe makes it a pleasant stopover, and it is a good jumping-off point for exploring places like Bacalar Lagoon, the Costa Maya, and several impressive Mayan archaeological sites if you’re not venturing further north on your trip.

Is Chetumal safe to visit?

Overall, Chetumal is considered safe for travellers, especially compared with larger Mexican cities and major tourist zones. We felt comfortable walking around the central areas during the day and along the waterfront in the early evening, but made sure not to be out after dark. It doesn’t feel as polished or as touristy as some other towns, so we were a little more on guard.

As with any city, petty theft can happen, so it’s best to keep valuables secure and avoid walking alone in poorly lit areas late at night. Take a taxi if you’re unsure about walking somewhere. The city has a calm atmosphere, and incidents involving tourists are relatively rare, so you should be fine.

What to pack to visit Chetumal

To ensure an enjoyable experience in Chetumal, it’s important to pack the right things. Don’t forget to pack your:

Chetumal FAQs

To help you plan your trip to Chetumal, we’ve answered these frequently asked questions.

What is Chetumal known for?

Chetumal is known as the capital of Quintana Roo, the gateway to Belize, and a relaxed waterfront city with museums, Mayan archaeological sites, and easy access to Bacalar.

Do they speak English in Chetumal?

Spanish is the main language in Chetumal, but basic English is widely understood in hotels, restaurants, and tourist services, especially around the waterfront and transport hubs.

Can you drink the tap water in Chetumal?

Tap water isn’t considered safe to drink in Chetumal. Stick to bottled or purified water, which is widely available and inexpensive, or bring your reusable filter bottle to reduce plastic.

Is Chetumal in Belize or Mexico?

Chetumal is in Mexico, not Belize, although it sits right on the border, just north of the Río Hondo, which marks the boundary between the two countries.

What is the closest airport to Chetumal?

Chetumal International Airport (CTM) is the city’s own airport and the closest option, with domestic flights and a few regional connections.

More from Quintana Roo

Quintana Roo is home to plenty more amazing coastal towns, featuring turquoise waters, ancient Mayan sites, and eco-rich jungles, making it an easy place to hop between destinations. Prepare for other places on your itinerary with our comprehensive travel guides:

Are you also visiting Belize?

Are you visiting Chetumal on your way to Belize? After travelling this small but stunning country for a month, we’ve written over 55 Belize travel guides, from snorkelling and diving off the country’s most beautiful islands to wildlife watching and exploring Mayan temples deep in the jungle. Prepare for your trip with all our recommendations, useful travel tips, and thorough research: