Calle Tulum Shops
A vibrant street in Tulum brimming with unique Mexican handicrafts, from intricate Huichol art to colorful pottery and artisanal treats.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cooler temps, vibrant atmosphere
Calle Tulum Shops
Best Time
Cooler temps, vibrant atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant street in Tulum brimming with unique Mexican handicrafts, from intricate Huichol art to colorful pottery and artisanal treats.
"Discover a treasure trove of authentic Mexican crafts and flavors on this lively Tulum street."
Carry Cash for Bargains
Many smaller vendors prefer cash, and it helps with negotiation. :moneywithwings:
Inspect Items Carefully
Check for quality and authenticity before buying. Look for machine stitching vs. handmade. :mag:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Huichol Art
Various stalls
Intricate beadwork and yarn paintings showcasing vibrant indigenous artistry.
Mexican Pottery & Ceramics
Ceramic shops
Colorful Talavera tiles, decorative vases, and functional tableware crafted by local artisans.
Handcrafted Jewelry
Jewelry stores
Unique silver and gold pieces, often featuring Mexican fire opals and other gemstones.
Tequila & Chocolate Tasting
Specialty shops
Sample artisanal liquors and gourmet chocolate bars with unique local flavors.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Shops
Authenticity & Haggling
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Carry Cash for Bargains
Many smaller vendors prefer cash, and it helps with negotiation. :moneywithwings:
Inspect Items Carefully
Check for quality and authenticity before buying. Look for machine stitching vs. handmade. :mag:
Be Wary of Pressure Tactics
If a shopkeeper is too aggressive, politely decline and move on. :shield:
Explore Beyond Main Street
Hidden gems and unique finds can be off the beaten path. :gem:
Tips
from all over the internet
Carry Cash for Bargains
Many smaller vendors prefer cash, and it helps with negotiation. :moneywithwings:
Inspect Items Carefully
Check for quality and authenticity before buying. Look for machine stitching vs. handmade. :mag:
Be Wary of Pressure Tactics
If a shopkeeper is too aggressive, politely decline and move on. :shield:
Explore Beyond Main Street
Hidden gems and unique finds can be off the beaten path. :gem:
Taste the Local Flavors
Don't miss out on tequila and chocolate tasting opportunities. :chocolate_bar:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors generally enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and wide selection of Mexican handicrafts at Calle Tulum Shops, particularly the unique Huichol art and pottery. However, some travelers caution about aggressive sales tactics and high prices, advising careful inspection of goods and respectful negotiation. The availability of artisanal tequila and chocolate tasting is also a highlight for many.
"DO NOT go into the store that faces the open city square! That man took us inside and shut the door, trapping us inside! They will claim it is to keep in the air conditioning, but they shut the door and stay near it to keep you from easily leaving. You cannot move in that place without the main shopkeeper pouncing on you and harassing you. And when he realized I could understand and speak Spanish, his shady conversation with his female shop help declined drastically. Despite this horrendous tactic, I kept my calm and didn't have a frantic fight-or-flight response. I know these places are not true artisan markets, but I will look at times just to see if anything could be of interest (even as a small gift to someone). I did like a dress, and I did ask about price, but he had the audacity to say it was handmade and high-quality fabric, and my "special discount" was $95! Get real; what highway robbery! Little did he know, I work with fabric and in sewing/crochet/knit, and I knew 100% that the dress was not a high-quality fabric, nor was it handcrafted. If you know where and how to look, you can tell it's factory machine stitching AND where they've cut the tags out. As we tried to leave, he held us hostage in the store with the closed door and said he'd take $80. I explained we didn't have that much cash on us (because we didn't), and he pressured us to use our credit card (which I was not going to allow). The harassment and pressuring is infuriating, especially when you know they are bold-face lying to you about their merchandise. We got out of there and I immediately had to walk across to the coast line for open air because I needed to shake the feeling of being a trapped animal. Heed my words, DO NOT go into the store that faces the open city square."
Hailey Porter
"We love everything about this wonderful little town! 🤙🏻💜👊🏻🔥😎"
Chris Killingsworth
"First time on a Cancun trip to Puerto Morelos. Cute, fun town, lots of restaurants and the marketplace was so much fun with lots of reasonably priced hand made goods"
John Hayden
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Calle Tulum Shops is located on a one-way street in Tulum, often referred to as Calle 7 in the La Veleta area. You can reach it by taxi or by car, though parking directly on the street can be challenging. Many visitors find it convenient to park nearby and walk.
Parking directly on Calle 7 itself is limited or non-existent. It's recommended to find parking on adjacent streets or in designated areas and then explore the shops on foot.
If you are staying in the La Veleta neighborhood or nearby, walking to Calle Tulum Shops is a great option. It allows you to soak in the local atmosphere.
The best way to explore Calle Tulum Shops is on foot. This allows you to browse at your own pace, discover hidden stalls, and interact with the artisans.
While direct public transport to this specific street might be limited, you can take local colectivos (shared vans) to the main Tulum town area and then a short taxi ride or walk to Calle Tulum Shops.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Calle Tulum Shops is an open street market, and there are no tickets required for entry. You can freely wander and browse the various stalls and shops.
The shops and stalls typically open in the late morning and stay open into the evening, with many becoming more lively as the sun sets. Hours can vary by individual vendor.
There is no admission fee to enter Calle Tulum Shops. You only pay for the items you choose to purchase.
Calle Tulum Shops is a street, so you can enter from either end. It's a one-way street, so it's best to be aware of traffic flow.
Most shops will be open on holidays, and it can be a particularly festive time to visit. However, it's always a good idea to check with specific vendors if you have a particular shop in mind.
🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Souvenirs
You can find a wide array of Mexican handicrafts, including Huichol art, pottery, Talavera tiles, textiles, jewelry, leather goods, and local delicacies like tequila and chocolate. +2
Yes, prices are often negotiable, especially for higher-value items. It's customary to haggle respectfully, but be aware that some vendors may be less flexible.
Look for unique details, signs of handcrafting, and ask vendors about their process. While many shops offer genuine items, some may sell mass-produced goods. +1
Handcrafted jewelry, unique pottery pieces, vibrant textiles, and artisanal tequila or chocolate make excellent gifts. Consider the recipient's taste. +1
Yes, you'll find shops dedicated to Huichol art, regional pottery, silver jewelry, and even specialty food items like tequila and chocolate. +2
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Absolutely! Calle Tulum is known for its vibrant culinary scene, with many pop-up stores, cozy coffee shops, local bars, and must-try restaurants offering everything from ramen to pizza.
You'll find a diverse range of options, including Mexican street food, international cuisine like Italian pizza and Japanese ramen, as well as local bars serving drinks.
Yes, some shops offer tastings of artisanal tequila liquors with unique flavors like coco, chocolate, and coffee, often at better prices than duty-free shops.
Indeed, there are chocolate stores with a good selection of bars, offering reasonable prices for delicious treats.
While some restaurants can be upscale, you can also find more casual eateries and street food vendors offering more affordable options. Exploring the side streets can reveal hidden gems.
📸 📸 Photography
The colorful crafts, vibrant street art, unique shop facades, and the lively atmosphere provide numerous photo opportunities. Capture the intricate details of Huichol art and the colorful pottery. +2
Generally, it's acceptable to take photos of the crafts, especially from a distance. If you plan to take close-ups or photos of specific artisans, it's always polite to ask for permission first.
Late afternoon and early evening offer beautiful lighting as the sun begins to set, and the street lights create a magical ambiance.
The colorful displays of pottery, the intricate patterns of Huichol art, and the unique architecture of the shops are all great subjects. The street itself, with its vibrant energy, is also a good backdrop. +1
A good smartphone camera is usually sufficient for capturing the essence of Calle Tulum Shops. If you're a photography enthusiast, a DSLR or mirrorless camera will allow for more creative control.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When visiting with children, consider going earlier in the day when it might be less crowded and cooler. Keep a close eye on them, as the street can get busy. Bringing snacks and water is always a good idea. While haggling is part of the experience, keep it light and fun, and focus on finding unique souvenirs that your children will cherish.
💰 Budget Travelers
Exploring beyond the main thoroughfares might reveal less touristy stalls with potentially better prices. Also, consider the food options; while some restaurants are upscale, you can find more affordable street food or local eateries nearby. Bringing your own water bottle and snacks can also help save money.
💖 Couples & Romantic Getaways
Consider visiting in the late afternoon or early evening to enjoy the cooler temperatures and the buzzing atmosphere. It's a great place to find a special memento of your trip together, whether it's a piece of handcrafted jewelry or a unique decorative item for your home.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of Mexican Handicrafts
When exploring, keep an eye out for the artisanal quality. True handmade items often have slight imperfections that add to their unique charm. Look for signs of hand-stitching on textiles or the distinct brushstrokes on pottery. While many vendors offer authentic pieces, it's wise to be discerning, as some items may be mass-produced.
Beyond visual arts, you can also find exquisite handcrafted jewelry, often featuring silver and precious stones like Mexican fire opals. Don't miss the opportunity to sample artisanal tequila and chocolate, which offer a taste of local flavors and traditions.
Navigating the Shopping Experience
It's advisable to have cash on hand, especially for smaller purchases or if you plan to haggle. While many shops accept credit cards, having cash can sometimes lead to better prices. Remember that haggling is a common practice, but it should be done respectfully. If a price seems too high, politely negotiate, but be prepared to walk away if you can't reach an agreement.
Trust your instincts. If a shop feels uncomfortable or a vendor is making you feel pressured, it's perfectly acceptable to politely decline and move on. The street is lined with numerous other options, and you're sure to find something you love without feeling coerced.
Culinary Delights on Calle Tulum
For those looking to sample local flavors, keep an eye out for shops offering artisanal tequila and chocolate. These often provide tasting opportunities, allowing you to discover unique regional varieties. Some travelers have noted that these artisanal liquors can be found at more reasonable prices here compared to other tourist spots.
Whether you're seeking a quick snack, a refreshing drink, or a full meal, Calle Tulum offers a range of options to satisfy your appetite. Exploring the side streets and alleys can often lead to discovering hidden culinary gems.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit