Playa del Carmen Introduction Walking Tour (Self Guided), Playa del Carmen

Founders Park or Founding Fathers Park is a public park in the city center. The park is just outside of the ADO Bus Station on 5th Avenue, next to the Cozumel Ferry Pier. The park is the first attraction you will see in Playa del Carmen if you come by bus from the airport.

In the park you will find the Portal Maya Statue, a gorgeous sculpture depicting two figures rising up to touch each other. There are street vendors selling souvenirs, food and snacks. From time to time public performance by dancers are also held in the park. No matter what time you visit, you will always find a good vibe in the area.

Paseo del Carmen is an outdoor shopping center located near the Cozumel Ferry Pier and the popular Founders Park. It is a relatively small shopping center, featuring Mediterranean architecture with an up market atmosphere. Along the cobblestone path you will find a number of international brands and local boutiques as well as a few eating options. This lovely shopping center is a favorite with locals and visitors alike.

Opening Hours: 7:00 – 23:00 Daily

Up until early 20 century, the population in Playa del Carmen was small and it did not grow until the trade in first mahogany and later gum resin took off. Back then there was not a church in the city and the religious services were performed by missionaries or priests from Cozumel.

This lovely white Catholic church was the creation of Fr Juan Amezcua who named the church as Our Lady of Carmen. Masses here are a quintessential Mexican experience and the performance by their 150 member choir and orchestra is not to be missed. Sunday masses are at 10 am in English, and 12 pm, 5 pm, and 7 pm in Spanish. The church is also a popular place for weddings.

La Quinta Avenida, or Fifth Avenue in English, is a vibrant pedestrian street stretching well over a kilometer parallel to the beach. It is the main artery in Playa del Carmen - you cannot visit Playa del Carmen without walking down the street a few times. The street is lined with shops offering everything from designer handbags, clothes, souvenirs, and art works.

There are plenty of eating options on this street too. You will find many outdoor restaurants and food stalls offering authentic Mexican cuisine and street foods. Three are also many bars, cafes and nightclubs on this street or in the nearby alleys. At night, street performers line the street sides dressed in costumes and break dancers show off their skills, all for small tips. This is a great place to be for having a nice meal, sipping a traditional Mexican drink and people watching.

Frida Kahlo is arguably the most famous female Mexican painter so it is not surprising to see a museum in Playa del Carmen dedicated to this iconic artist. This museum leads visitors into the life and story behind her art. The museum presents, in chronological order, many photos and diagrams showing the life events and works of the artist. There also is a mini theater which shows a 15-minutes video about the artist.

Opening Hours: 10:00 – 20:00 Daily

Have you ever dreamed of being immersed into the art world of past art masters of DaVinci, Michelangelo and others? The 3D Museum of Wonders makes your dream come true. It is the first 3D illusion art museum on American continent. Through an illusional effect, the museum allows you to travel back in time and become a figure in the art work of past masters of DaVinci, Michelangelo and others. It is a cool treat that both kids and adults can enjoy.

Opening Hours: 9:00 - 22:00 Daily

Zenzi Beach Bar & Restaurant, as its name implies, it a full service bar and restaurant right on the beach. Here you can enjoy a meal or have a drink with your feet in the sand and a full view of the ocean. Free Salsa lessons are offered three times a week on Monday, Thursday and Saturday, and on Sunday free Samba lessons. Every Sunday afternoon from 2-6 pm, all-you-can-eat BBQ is served.

Opening Hours: 8:30 - 2:00 Daily

“Coco Bongo” is a new dance club on the corner of Calle 12 and 10th Avenue. The pleasant atmosphere of this club makes is the perfect spot for a night out with your friends, with a wide range of top tunes on the playlist.

Opening Hours: 22:00 - 4:00 Daily

As you walk down Fifth Avenue from Founders Square, when you almost reach the end of the pedestrian street, you will find Le Perla Pixan, a restaurant specializes in authentic Mayan food. The restaurant's menu is both traditional and innovative. If you are the adventurous type, try one of the dishes made with grasshoppers – it will be an experience that you will not forget. The restaurant has a mezcal store where you can buy some of the famous Mexico liquor to take home.

Opening Hours: 8:30 – 24:00 Daily