Exploring ancient Mayan ruins, swimming in cenotes, enjoying cultural performances, and savoring Yucatecan cuisine are just a few of the fantastic activities you can enjoy in Merida. Let’s dive into what makes this Mexican city so special.
Although Merida is the state capital and a popular spot for nomads, expats, and retirees, it often gets overshadowed by Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum. Most travelers heading to this part of Mexico usually go straight to the beach since the nearest one is 40 km (25 miles) away from Merida. However, this is changing as people start to notice Merida’s charm. Conde Nast Traveler recently named Merida the best small city in the world, and now travelers are flocking to experience it.
I’ve lived in Mexico for the past three years but only recently traveled to Merida. I spent a significant amount of time exploring, and I can confidently say that Merida did not disappoint. It’s one of the best destinations in Mexico—vibrant, with numerous attractions and places to visit.
Let me share some of the best things to do in Merida:
1. Centro Historico
Start with a walk around the city’s Centro Historico. It’s one of the largest historic centers in Latin America, second only to Mexico City and Havana. Join the free walking tour at Santa Lucia Park daily at 10 AM. The two-hour tour covers Merida’s history, culture, and traditions. Though the tour is free, tipping your guide around 100 pesos (about $5) is customary.
The Zocalo, at the city’s heart, is perfect for soaking up the local culture. You’ll find the Merida Cathedral, Municipal Palace, Casa Montejo, and the Governor’s Palace, all of which are free to visit. There’s also a free walking tour of the Zocalo by the city’s tourism board starting at the Municipal Palace at 9:30 AM daily.
2. Cenotes
Merida can get very hot, and one of the best ways to cool off is by swimming in cenotes, natural sinkholes found all over the Yucatan Peninsula. Many tours visit cenotes like Cascabel, Chaksikin, and Pool Cocom, and often include swimming, lunch, transportation, and entrance fees. Tours also offer the chance to explore haciendas and the Uxmal archaeological site, learning about Mayan culture along the way.
3. Museums
In and around the Zocalo, visit Casa Montejo, a 1540s mansion turned museum. The Museum of the City of Merida and the free museum focused on the art of Fernando Garcia Ponce are also must-visits. Don’t miss the Great Museum of the Maya World, which houses a vast collection of Mayan artifacts. It’s a bit far from the city center but easily reachable by bus or Uber.
4. Mayan Ruins
The famous Chichen Itza is about an hour and a half from Merida. Guided tours can include visits to nearby colonial towns and cenotes. Merida serves as a gateway to many Mayan sites, including Uxmal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can reach Uxmal by bus or take a comprehensive tour that includes other nearby ruins.
5. Progreso Beach
For a beach day, head to Progreso, a cruise ship port with a touristy vibe. The local bus is the most affordable way to get there, costing around 19 pesos each way.
6. Ria Celestun
Visit the Ria Celestun biosphere reserve for pristine beaches, mangroves, and the chance to see pink flamingos in the winter. Tours typically include a boat ride and lunch.
7. Food & Cooking Classes
Merida is a food lover’s paradise. Don’t miss local dishes like cochinita pibil, poc chuc, sopa de lima, and papadzules. Consider joining a food tour or cooking class to fully immerse yourself in the local cuisine.
8. Paseo de Montejo
Walk down this tree-lined boulevard to see impressive mansions and museums like Palacio Canton and Quinta Montes Molina. Don’t miss the Monument to the Fatherland and try to catch the weekly Biciruta event, where the boulevard is closed to motorized vehicles.
9. Cultural Performances
There are nightly cultural events in Merida, many of which are free. Highlights include the Yucatecan Serenade on Thursdays and the festive Noche Mexicana on Saturdays.
10. Local Football
Catch a game of Venados FC, Merida’s local football club, between January and April at Estadio Carlos Iturralde.
11. Cantina Hopping
Finally, experience the local cantinas like La Negrita, which offer live music and free snacks. These are welcoming places for both locals and visitors.
So, is Merida worth visiting? Absolutely! It might not have beaches like Cancun, but it offers unmatched cultural and historical sites, incredible food, and a genuine vibe. It’s one of the safest cities in Mexico and provides endless opportunities for exploration and adventure.
Merida is a true gem in the Yucatan Peninsula, perfect for those seeking an authentic Mexican experience. If you have any recommendations for places to visit or eat, feel free to share!
