Playa del Carmen: Mexico & Central America's Best City Break of 2026
Playa del Carmen has a new reason to shine: it was named Mexico & Central America's Leading City Break Destination 2026 by the World Travel Awards, known as the "Oscars of tourism." The announcement came during the Americas and Caribbean ceremony held in Jamaica, confirming what many of us already knew: this Mexican Caribbean city is made for a getaway.
Personally, this recognition makes me truly happy, because they deserve it. I lived there, and you never get bored with everything there is to do, in a city that never stops innovating in hospitality, real estate, gastronomy, art and culture.
Everything in one getaway
For a short escape, the city has it all: Fifth Avenue, white-sand beaches, nearby cenotes and a strong food scene, with three Michelin-starred restaurants in the 2026 MICHELIN Guide Mexico.
It’s also a truly multicultural city, where people from France, Italy, Spain, Canada, the United States, Argentina and all across Latin America live side by side, all sharing an incredibly vibrant and natural setting.
The Mexican Caribbean shines
Cancún, Isla Mujeres, Tulum and Chichén Itzá were also recognized, proof that the Mexican Caribbean remains one of the world's most beloved destinations.
Plan your trip
If you're planning your next trip, Playa del Carmen deserves a spot on your list. Want to plan it with someone who knows the destination up close? Book a Trip Planning Session with E Weekly News.
Discover more lifestyle and travel stories from the Mexican Caribbean, Florida and beyond on E Weekly News.
About the author: Patty Kralj has dedicated twenty years to what she loves most: writing about lifestyle. Having lived between Mexico and the United States, with a deep European sensibility, she created E Weekly News for one reason: to help you live better. Say hello here.
