Tulúm basically is the backpacker’s destination in Quintana Roo. Or at least the backpacker’s destination of the three ‘big’ and most famous places in Quintana Roo (Cancún, Playa del Carmen and Tulúm). The reason for that is that Tulúm is a little less expensive and touristy in comparison. There is also a little more to see in Tulúm itself (cenotes, ruins and beach). Plus Tulúm has some really cool street art.
Since Tulúm has a reputation for being quite cute, beautiful and alternative, I was hoping to like Tulúm – unlike Cancún and Playa del Carmen. Cause I did like Playa del Carmen more compared to Cancún and I thought maybe things would slowly improve place by place. Tulúm is indeed quite cute, beautiful and alternative. But unfortunately only in comparison to Cancún and Playa del Carmen. And quite frankly the ruins are really lame (no offence) if you’ve already seen the big and beautiful ones in Mexico. The beach is okay and actually quite nice, but it’s just a single beach. Cancún and Playa del Carmen here actually have more to offer. The cenotes… save your time, effort and money for Valladolid and Mérida instead. Again, no offence.

Go or not? I know I’m being very critical about Tulum and the other places in Quintana Roo. And in a way I feel sorry about that, but… Quintana Roo is just very expensive and touristy, and compared to other parts in Mexico it’s simply not as rich in cultural and scenic beauty. So you can visit Tulum if you want, but it’s not really a must.