Cheap flights to Cancun

Cancun effortlessly contains several destinations in one very attractive locale. Head out here for the splendour of its white-sand beaches, the glitzy glamour of its all-inclusive resorts and entertainment options or to travel awe-struck through the remarkable ruins of ancient empires.

Whether it's the architectural marvels of lost civilizations or the pampered luxuries of the modern age that you are after, a cheap flight to Cancun will deliver romance, relaxation and plenty of rock and roll.

When to book cheap flights to Cancun

When it's winter back here in the UK you can almost guarantee that the sun will still be shining and the mercury bubbling down in Cancun. Peak season runs right through the heart of winter – and extends into spring. From mid-December through to April you can expect the temperature to be around 26 – 30^oC, and rain seldom something to consider. Peak season is typically busy in the resorts and flight prices will be at their highest.

The US Spring Break is probably best avoided, unless you really want to party with thousands of college kids, but outside of this short period you will usually find a mix of older sunseekers, cultural tourists and families sharing the spaces of Cancun and Quintana Roo with you.

Cancun is much more than just a party destination: there are some real cultural highlights here, with magical ruins of ancient Mayan and Aztec civilizations to take in. If these are part of your reason for visiting, then book a cheaper flight during late-October and early-November for some great weather and a quieter Cancun. Time your booking right and you'll also be able to experience the carnivals and festivities of Mexico's Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) too.

Which airlines fly to Cancun?

Airlines offering flights to Cancun include:

• British Airways
• TUI
• Virgin Atlantic
• Thomas Cook Airlines

In addition, connecting flights can be found with:

• American Airlines
• Air Canada
• Avianca
• Delta
• eurowings
• Air Europa
• United
• SWISS
• Iberia
• Aeromexico
• WestJet
• Air France
• Air Transat

How to get around in Cancun

Cancun's accommodation and nightlife options centre on the Zona Hotelera, located between the airport and downtown.

Buses are by far the cheapest way of getting around, but for more convenience and comfort there are plenty of taxis looking for a fare. If you are exploring further afield car hire offers a convenient option and renting a car is relatively inexpensive.

What are the must-sees in Cancun?

Away from the beach Cancun offers an incredibly varied choice of things to see and do. The surrounding area has been home to some of the world's greatest civilizations, including the Aztecs and Maya, and you'll find evidence of their empires all around. Chichen Itza and the cliff-top ruins of Tulum are probably the best-known examples, and both offer a real sense of lingering mystery to all visitors.

Cancun is also known for its diving, both in the reefs off-shore and in the vast network of underground caves, known as cenotes, that can be explored. The Underwater Museum is a vast subaquatic complex showcasing hundreds of statues that were submerged centuries ago.

Tips for travelling to Cancun

August through October sees hurricanes regularly hitting the coast, so do expect the occasional storm and regular downpours during this time.