Mérida is a beautiful colonial city and the capital of the Yucatán state, located in the north-west of the Yucatán peninsula. The city offers a great variety of cultural and culinary options as well as captivating landscapes and Maya ruins around to explore. In this blog post I will show you the best things to do in Mérida, the main places I visited and also tell you about things I would do differently next time.
Best Things To Do in Mérida, Yucatán
#1 Explore Mérida's old town
Start your journey through the heart of Mérida, beginning at the northern end of Paseo de Montejo. The iconic boulevard is adorned with colonial-style houses, each telling tales of a bygone era. Quinta Montes Molina stands as a testament to the city’s aristocratic past, while the Museo Regional de Antropologia Palacio Canton offers a deep dive into the region’s anthropological history.
Head south towards Calle 60 where unfolds—a main commercial artery that captures the essence of Merida. Lined with vibrant restaurants, cafes, and shops, this street leads you through a sensory journey. The culmination of this exploration is the Zocalo of Merida, Plaza Principal de Merida, where the city’s heartbeat echoes through historic architecture and lively surroundings.
#2 Visit Chichen Itza
A short distance from Merida lies the legendary Chichen Itza, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Its colossal pyramids, intricate carvings, and historical significance make it a must-visit. While the site attracts crowds, the sheer magnitude and historical resonance of Chichen Itza make it an unparalleled experience.
Whether opting for organized tours, buses, colectivos, or going on your own by rental car, the journey to Chichen Itza promises awe-inspiring encounters with ancient Mayan civilization and is a must-visit in Mérida and Mexico in general!
#3 Visit Celestún Biological Reserve area
Approximately a 1 hour drive from Mérida on the western coast of the Yucatán peninsula is the laid-back beach town Celestún. The town is located right next to a biological reserve, which is home to different species of animals and plants, such as flamingos, pelicans and mangroves.
You can take a boat tour starting from the beach area in Celestún (cost around 300MXN, Dec 2022) for a boat tour that will take you to different places in the natural reserve area. Typically, you will ride along the coastline to the south, where you can see flamingos and pelicans. Afterwards, you will head into the mangroves of the Celestún biological reserve and then head to the sea, where you can enjoy a mayan bath. The sand around Celestún is clay-like and has an exfoliating and softening effect on your skin.
I only stayed in Celestún for a day-trip but I really liked its vibe and could definitely imagine to spend a night there when in the area. The beach and water in Celestún is also a lot cleaner with less seaweed than in the northern shore of the Yucatan peninsula, for example in Puerto Progreso (which I would not recommend to visit!).
#4 Visit the Maya ruins of Uxmal
Less explored than Chichen Itza but equally fascinating, Uxmal awaits an hour’s drive south of Mérida. Situated on the Ruta Puuc, this archaeological gem rivals Chichen Itza with its intricate architecture and historical significance. The site’s relative tranquility allows for an immersive experience, and is a must visit if you are interested in the history of the Maya in the Yucatán peninsula.
#5 Explore Cenotes around Mérida
These natural sinkholes, scattered across the peninsula, offer a refreshing escape into crystalline waters. The Yucatán’s unique geography is home to these natural wonders, and Mérida serves as an ideal hub for exploration. From Ik Kil to Cenote Dos Ojos, each cenote unveils a distinct subterranean world, inviting travelers to connect with these magical places.
#6 Visit the yellow town of Izamal
In the southwest of Mérida lies Izamal, a town drenched in shades of yellow and rich in colonial charm. Stroll through its cobblestone streets, marvel at the vibrant facades, and immerse yourself in the town’s cultural allure. Known as “The Yellow Town,” Izamal is a living canvas, where each corner tells a story of a vibrant and picturesque past.
#7 Explore Valladolid
Valladolid in Quintana Roo is a captivating colonial town that embodies the rich history and cultural heritage of the region. With its colorful facades, cobblestone streets, and charming atmosphere, Valladolid offers a glimpse into Mexico’s colonial past while serving as a gateway to nearby Mayan ruins and natural wonders like the unique cenotes in and around the town.
Take a leisurely stroll through the streets of Valladolid’s historic center, which is a designated Pueblo Mágico (Magical Town). Admire the well-preserved colonial architecture, vibrant buildings adorned with colorful facades, and the majestic San Gervasio Cathedral. Don’t miss Parque Francisco Canton Rosado, a picturesque park where locals gather to relax and enjoy the ambiance.
Check my full article on Valladolid here: Best Things To Do in Valladolid, Quintana Roo
Best Time to Visit Mérida, Yucatán
The climate in Mérida is very tropical with hot and humid temperatures that can exceed 35°C in the summer months which can be challenging for long walks in the city center. The most recommended time to visit are the winter months from November to February when the humidity is lower but temperatures are still pleasantly warm.
Best Ways To Get to Mérida, Yucatán
By airplane
Mérida’s international airport (MID) is well connected to the rest of Mexico and offers multiple flights per day from and to Mexico City, Guadalajara and also international connections from e.g. Dallas. All of Mexico’s main airlines Aeromexico, VivaAerobus and Volaris offer flights to Mérida. Make sure to compare offers on Skyscanner or Kayak for best flight times and prices.
By bus
Mérida is well-connected by bus services from major cities in the Yucatán peninsula, including Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Tulum, Chiquila (ferry terminal to Holbox), Bacalar and Valladolid. ADO and Mayab are two reputable bus companies that operate routes to Valladolid, providing convenient and comfortable transportation options (check busbud for prices and availability).
By rental car
Mérida and the whole Yucatán peninsula are also very attainable via rental car. This offers more flexibility than the bus connections that only leave a few times per day. Check Discover Cars for best rental car offers during your planned visit. The roads in the Yucatán pensinsula are usually well-maintained and safe, however to some cenotes or beaches you might face some dirt roads so a full rental car insurance is recommended.
By train
A new option will be the Mayan Train, which is going to be opened in 2024 and will connect the major tourist destinations on the Yucatán peninsula (e.g. Bacalar, Tulum, Chichen Itza, Palenque) via a train network. However, the project has faced strong criticism from environmentalist due to its massive downsides to the peninsula’s biodiversity of as large areas of rainforest had to be cut down to provide space for the train tracks.
Other recommended places near Mérida
Valladolid: Best Things To Do in Valladolid, Quintana Roo
Isla Holbox: Best Things To Do In Isla Holbox
Laguna Bacalar: Best Things To Do in Laguna Bacalar
Best Places To Stay in Mérida, Yucatán
Select accommodations in Mérida’s city center for a central and immersive experience. Alternatively, consider a stay outside of town in a Hacienda, embracing the luxury of historic estates surrounded by lush landscapes. For this option, you will require a rental car to move into the city and to the main tourist sights around Mérida. You will lots of great accommodation options on booking.com or airbnb.
Best Places to Eat in Mérida, Yucatán
Indulge in Merida’s culinary treasures and local specialties like sopa de lima (lemon soup) and cochinita pibil, marinated shredded pork meat served in a taco with red onions.
La Chaya Maya and Hacienda Teya, renowned eateries in the heart of Merida, offer a culinary journey through Yucatán’s flavors. Don’t miss the incredible flan at Hacienda Teya, one of the best flans you will try in your life and a sweet conclusion to an unforgettable dining experience.
Other recommendations include Los Almendros, Oliva Enoteca, Kuuk, Arcano, and La Terraza Amarilla.
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Hello!
Good cheer to all on this beautiful day!!!!!
Good luck 🙂