Fun Things to Do in Merida, Mexico

In January, we decided to check out the lovely city of Merida. We’ve been to Mexico, to all-inclusive resorts, but we wanted to get away from the touristy areas this time. That led us to Merida! I’d read great things about the safety (it’s considered one of the safest cities in the world!), the things to do, the yummy food, and decided I needed to see it for myself. Let me tell you, it did not disappoint. As someone who’s really only seen the resort/tourist area of Mexico, it was so fun to experience a more cultural and authentic city. We ate SO MANY tacos, visited cantinas, swam in local cenotes, shopped at markets, and had a great time. In this post, I’d love to tell you all the fun things to do in Merida, Mexico and I hope it inspires you to check out this lovely city.

Visit Markets

Mérida offers vibrant markets where you can experience the local culture, shop for traditional crafts, and savor authentic Yucatecan cuisine. We SO enjoyed visiting the markets. It was fun to see all the fresh produce and we were just shocked at how colorful and full and lively the markets are.

Mercado Santiago: This market is known for its food vendors, offering a variety of Yucatecan dishes. It’s a great place to sample local specialties in a lively atmosphere.

• One of our favorite taquerias was found here, Taqueria La Luptia. I’ll talk more about them later in this post!

Lucas de Gálvez Market: Located in the heart of the city, this bustling market is one of the largest in Mérida. You can find a wide variety of fresh produce, meats, spices, and traditional Yucatecan foods. It’s a great place to immerse yourself in the local atmosphere.

• Lucas de Gálvez Artisan Market: This market is an extension of the Lucas de Gálvez Market and focuses on handmade crafts and artisanal products. You can find traditional clothing, hammocks, jewelry, and other unique items.

San Benito Market: Also known as Mercado Municipal San Benito, this market is known for its diverse selection of fruits, vegetables, and other fresh produce. You’ll also find stalls selling traditional snacks, handicrafts, and souvenirs.

Santa Ana Market: Adjacent to the Santa Ana Park, this market is known for its arts and crafts. It’s a great place to shop for handmade souvenirs, textiles, and traditional Yucatecan products.

Busy Bee Tip: Some things to look for at the markets: tacos (duh!), horchata (cinnamon rice milk.. different, but yummy), jaritos (mexican sodas – orange is my fav!), handcrafted jewelry, hand painted coffee mugs, and super fresh produce!

Walk or Bike the Streets During Biciruta

The “Biciruta” in Mérida is a weekly event (every Sunday morning), where certain streets in the city are closed to vehicular traffic, allowing cyclists and pedestrians to enjoy the space freely. This initiative is part of efforts to promote a healthy and active lifestyle, as well as to encourage the use of bicycles as a means of transportation.

The specific streets and schedule for the Biciruta may vary, so it’s recommended to check with local sources or the municipality for the most up-to-date information on when and where the event will take place during your visit to Mérida.

We loved being able to walk freely through the streets on Sunday morning to get coffee, visit the markets, and do some shopping! Be sure to check out the Merida Biciruta website for info on what streets are closed and further updates!

Try Yummy Yucatan Cuisine

Typical Yucatan cuisine is a bit different than what you might think of, when you consider “Mexican” food. It’s influenced by both indigenous Mayan ingredients and techniques, as well as European and Caribbean flavors.

Common Yucatan Foods to Try:

• Cochinita Pibil: Perhaps the most famous Yucatecan dish, cochinita pibil involves marinating pork in achiote paste and citrus juice, then slow-cooking it in banana leaves. The result is tender, flavorful, and often served with pickled onions.
  • Busy Bee Tip: You can typically order this at most taquerias or restaurants in Merida. I LOVED ordering this in tacos. So yummy!
• Panuchos and Salbutes: These are two popular street food items. Panuchos are fried tortillas stuffed with refried beans and topped with shredded turkey or chicken, lettuce, and salsa. Salbutes are similar but typically feature shredded cabbage and avocado.
• Sikil Pak: A traditional Mayan dip made from roasted pumpkin seeds, tomatoes, cilantro, and habanero peppers. It is often served with tortilla chips or as a topping for other dishes.
• Poc Chuc: Grilled and marinated pork, typically served with pickled onions and citrusy marinade, showcasing the influence of Mayan culinary techniques.
• Sopa de Lima: A refreshing soup featuring shredded chicken, lime, and tortilla strips. It combines the flavors of citrus and local spices.

Where to Eat in Merida

Trattoria Di Alfredo

Ok, hear me out. I know it sounds crazy, but we had the BEST Italian food we’ve ever had, in Merida. The service here was incredible, the truffle oil they serve with the bread is DIVINE, and everything we ordered was so good. If you’re looking for a laidback, yummy meal, check them out.

La Chaya Maya

If you’re wanting a place to try some traditional Yucatan cuisine, this is the spot. Pretty much everything I listed above is on their menu and is super yummy!

• Busy Bee Tip: They have 2 locations, but one is more aesthetic and has better vibes in my opinion. If you click on the Google Maps link here, it’ll take you to the location I recommend.
• Busy Bee Tip: This restaurant makes a great date night or laidback dinner. The outdoor seating is very cozy and nice and the food is delicious. If you’re from America, you’ll love the prices of the menu items here. We ordered a steak dinner, 3 tacos, and cocktails and only paid $40 USD.

Taqueria La Lupita

Another great place to try traditional Yucatan foods at a really low price. This taqueria is famous because they were featured on Taco Chronicles on Netflix, so it was pretty chaotic and busy in there!

• Busy Bee Tip: Taqueria La Lupita is located in Mercado Santiago so be sure to try them out when you’re there wandering through the market!

Marquesita Carts

Marquesitas are a popular street food snack in the Yucatán Peninsula, particularly in cities like Mérida. These delightful treats are a unique fusion of crispy crepes and sweet fillings.

• Busy Bee Tip: You can find carts selling these all over Merida, particularly near Plaza Grande.
• Busy Bee Tip: They typically have lots of filling options, but my favorite way to order mine was with cheese & nutella. I know it sounds strange, but the combo of sweet and salty is so good!

Visit a Local Coffee Shop

Mérida, being a vibrant and cultural city, offers a diverse coffee scene. Here are some recommendations for experiencing the coffee culture in Mérida:

• Tinoc Cafe: This is my FAVORITE coffee shop I visited in Merida. I wish I would’ve discovered it earlier in my trip, so I could’ve gone back everyday.
  • Busy Bee Tip: Try the Iced Brown Sugar Latte. I will be thinking of this latte for a long time… yum.
  • Busy Bee Tip: The food here is also so good! This was probably our favorite breakfast in Merida. Don’t miss a stop here! 😊
• Bengala Kaffeehaus: This coffee shop is pretty cozy and a great place to stop for a quick lunch while out exploring. We enjoyed being able to sit on their outdoor patio and eat our paninis and coffee.
  • Busy Bee Tip: When we stopped by, there were a few people working in the cafe. So if you’re looking for a great place to spend a day of work on your laptop, give them a try!
• Marago Coffee: Marago is in a super convenient location to visit while you’re out exploring and the inside cafe is so aesthetic and cute. They have plants everywhere and the overall decor is adorable.
  • Busy Bee Tip: The cafe has a really large coffee menu including cold brew, pourovers, chemex, and more. They also do fancy latte art in their hot drinks and have a pretty extensive list of flavors!

Tour Paseo de Montejo

Paseo de Montejo in Mérida draws inspiration from the grandeur of Champs-Élysées in Paris, evident in its tree-lined boulevard, opulent colonial architecture, and vibrant cultural ambiance. This grand avenue is lined with beautiful mansions, shops, and restaurants. It’s a great place for a leisurely stroll.

• Monuments and Statues: Paseo de Montejo has various statues and monuments. One notable landmark is the Monumento a la Bandera (Flag Monument) at the intersection of Paseo de Montejo and Avenida Colón.
• Remate de Paseo de Montejo: The “Remate” is the southern end of Paseo de Montejo, marked by a large roundabout and the Monumento a la Patria. The monument celebrates Mexico’s history and independence.
• Sunday Biciruta: On Sundays, Paseo de Montejo often participates in the city’s Biciruta event.
• Nightlife: This area comes alive at night, with some of the city’s best bars and clubs located along the avenue.
• Cultural Events: Paseo de Montejo hosts various cultural events throughout the year, including parades, festivals, and art exhibitions.
• Shopping: The avenue is lined with shops and boutiques, offering a range of items from traditional Yucatecan crafts to modern fashion.
• Merida’s Twin Towers: At the beginning of Paseo de Montejo, you’ll find the Twin Towers (Twin Lions) that mark the entrance to the avenue.
• Outdoor Cafés and Restaurants: Paseo de Montejo is dotted with charming outdoor cafés and restaurants. It’s a pleasant place to enjoy a leisurely meal or a refreshing drink while taking in the surroundings.

Explore Plaza Grande

Plaza Grande, also known as the Main Square or Zócalo, is the central square of Mérida. This historic and lively plaza is the heart of the city and a focal point for both locals and tourists. Here are some key features and attractions at Plaza Grande:

Colorful Merida Sign: These signs are seen is almost every major city across Mexico, and Merida is no different! This is a fun place to take a cute picture while out exploring.

Kissing Chairs: These are just giant white chairs that face eachother for a fun seating option. A perfect spot for a break or for meeting up with a friend!

Cathedral of Mérida: The imposing Mérida Cathedral, dedicated to Saint Ildefonso, dominates one side of the plaza. This colonial-era cathedral is one of the oldest in the Americas, constructed using stones from ancient Mayan pyramids.

Street Performers and Events: Plaza Grande is often bustling with activity. You may encounter street performers, musicians, and local vendors selling crafts. The square is a popular venue for cultural events and festivals.

Street Vendors: The square is a popular area of handcrafted goods including jewelry, clothes, quilts, and more.

Restaurants and Cafés: Surrounding the square, you’ll find various restaurants and cafés where you can enjoy traditional Yucatecan cuisine or simply relax with a coffee.

Nightlife: In the evenings, Plaza Grande comes alive with locals and tourists enjoying the vibrant atmosphere. Street vendors may offer snacks, and the surrounding establishments often have live music or entertainment.

Join a Free Walking Tour

Mérida often offers free walking tours, allowing visitors to explore the city’s sights & learn about the cultural heritage. These tours are typically led by knowledgeable guides who share insights into the architecture, traditions, and local stories. Here are two highly rated (+FREE!) walking tours:

• Free Tour Merida
• Free Walking Tour Mexico

Visit a Shopping Mall

We happened to stumble onto this idea one night because it was rainy & we were tired & just wanted an easy activity. Que wandering the mall! We were pleasantly surprised at how fancy La Isla Mall was. The exterior was gorgeously decorated with a man-made lake and greenery. They had a really good range of stores and restaurants in the mall, too. We really enjoyed walking through here! Kyrk has been to the Dubai Mall & said this was actually just as nice.

Catch Traditional Performances

Merida has things happening pretty much every day of the week! Here’s a list of some cultural experiences and shows to check out:

Busy Bee Tip: Please be sure to check the local tourism board for any updated times, locations, etc!

• Monday: Noches de Vaqueria
  • What: traditional dance with vibrant colors, lively music, and festive atmosphere
  • When: typically 9pm
  • Where: Plaza Grande in front of the Palacio Municipal
• Tuesdays – Rembranzas Musicales
  • What: couples & families dance to live music together, similar to a block party
  • When: typically 8:30pm
  • Where: Parque de Santiago
• Wednsdays – Tour of the Cemetery
  • What: tour of the local cemetery with info on local history & burial traditions
  • When: 8pm
  • Where: calle 81a & 90
• Thursdays – Serenata Santa Lucia
  • What: open air concert & dancing
  • When: 9pm
  • Where: Santa Lucia Park
• Fridays – Traditional Yucatan Dances
  • What: the University of Yucatán Ballet Folklórico performs dances
  • When: 9pm
  • Where: courtyard of the University of Yucatán, Calle 60 at Calle 57
• Saturdays: Pok ta Pok
  • What: ancient Mayan ball game dating back over 3500 years – players in colorful attire & headdresses
  • When: 8pm
  • Where: in front of Merida Cathedral

Visit Cenotes

Mérida and the surrounding Yucatán Peninsula are home to numerous cenotes, natural sinkholes formed by the collapse of limestone bedrock. These cenotes offer a refreshing escape and a unique opportunity to swim in caves, jump from platforms, and explore the natural beauty of this area. The cenotes you’ll find in & around Merida are quite different from the ones you’d see on excursions from Cancun, etc.

Busy Bee Tip: I HIGHLY recommend visiting the town of Homun to check out cenotes. Homun is a very small town, about an hour from Merida, with over 300 privately owned cenotes. We spent a day driving ourselves to various cenotes, swimming around, jumping from platforms, and exploring. It was such a blast! Click here to read all about our experience and for tips on visiting Homun cenotes. The photos below are from the cenotes we visited in Homun!

Homun Cenotes – The Best Cenotes Near Merida

If you don’t want to drive to Homun, here are a few cenotes closer to Merida:

• Cenote Xlacah:
  • Location: Within the Dzibilchaltún archaeological site, about 15 kilometers north of Mérida.
  • Details: This cenote is easily accessible and features a large opening surrounded by lush vegetation. It’s a popular spot for swimming and cooling off after exploring the archaeological site.
• Cenote San Ignacio:
  • Location: About 40 kilometers southwest of Mérida.
  • Details: San Ignacio is a semi-open cenote surrounded by lush vegetation. It’s a serene location for swimming and relaxation.

Visit Haciendas

Exploring the haciendas around Mérida can provide a fascinating glimpse into the region’s history, architecture, and cultural heritage. Many haciendas have been repurposed into museums, hotels, or cultural centers. Here’s a few highly rated Hacienda tour options & some even include a visit to a cenote!

• Yaxcopoil Hacienda & Uxmal Plus Cenote from Merida
• Private Day Tour Uxmal Hacienda Yaxcopoil and Chocolate Museum
• Private Tour of Uxmal and Cenote Hacienda Mucuyche 2 cenotes

Take a Cooking Class or Food Tour (or both!)

Food tours and cooking classes are some of the best ways to learn about the local cuisine and have fun at the same time! You’ll meet locals and other tourists, see the area, and learn more about the history, traditions, and eat great food! Below are some highly rated options for food tours and/or cooking classes:

Food Tours:

• Merida Street Food Walking Tour
• Merida Walking Food Tour. Authentic & Local Cuisine
• Market Tasting and Yucatecan Bars Tour in Merida

Cooking Classes:

• Taste of the Yucatan: Merida Cooking Class and Market Visit
• Private Yucatecan Cooking Lesson in a Local Merida Home

See Mayan Ruins

Mérida and its surrounding region in the Yucatán Peninsula are rich in ancient Mayan history, featuring several impressive archaeological sites. Here are notable Mayan ruins near Mérida, including Chichen Itzá, Ek Balam, and Uxmal:

• Chichen Itzá:
  • Distance from Mérida: Approximately 120 kilometers (75 miles) to the east.
  • Highlights: Chichen Itzá is one of the most famous and well-preserved Mayan archaeological sites. Key structures include the Pyramid of Kukulcan, the Great Ball Court, and the Temple of the Warriors.
    • Busy Bee Tip: Chichen Itza is one of the wonders of the world, and for that reason, it’s VERY popular. Arrive early to beat the crowds and buy your tickets in advance.
• Uxmal:
  • Distance from Mérida: Approximately 78 kilometers (48 miles) to the south.
  • Highlights: Uxmal is known for its intricate architecture and the iconic Pyramid of the Magician. Other notable structures include the Nunnery Quadrangle, the Governor’s Palace, and the House of the Turtles.
    • Busy Bee Tip: This is great alternative to Chichen Itza if you want to avoid the crowds!
• Ek Balam:
  • Distance from Mérida: Approximately 160 kilometers (99 miles) to the east.
  • Highlights: Ek Balam is recognized for its well-preserved stucco sculptures and the Acropolis, a large pyramid with elaborate carvings. Visitors can climb to the top for panoramic views of the surrounding jungle.
• Dzibilchaltún:
  • Distance from Mérida: Located just 15 kilometers (9 miles) north of Mérida.
  • Highlights: Dzibilchaltún is one of the closest archaeological sites to Mérida. The Temple of the Seven Dolls and the Xlacah Cenote are significant features. The site also includes a museum showcasing artifacts found on the premises.
    • Busy Bee Tip: There is a cenote within the archaeological site as well!

Day Trips from Merida

Mérida serves as an excellent base for day trips to various fascinating destinations in the Yucatán Peninsula. Here are some notable day trip options:

• Celestún:
  • Distance from Mérida: Approximately 90 kilometers west.
  • Highlights: Celestún is famous for its natural beauty and the Celestún Biosphere Reserve, home to a large population of flamingos. Boat tours are available to explore the mangroves and observe diverse bird species.

• Izamal:
  • Distance from Mérida: Around 70 kilometers east.
  • Highlights: Known as the “Yellow City,” Izamal is characterized by its colonial architecture and distinctive yellow-painted buildings. The city’s main attraction is the Kinich Kakmó Pyramid, dedicated to the sun god.

• Progreso:
  • Distance from Mérida: Located just 36 kilometers north.
  • Highlights: Progreso is a coastal town with a long pier, beachfront restaurants, and a bustling market. It’s a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. You can enjoy seafood, relax on the beach, or take a stroll along the malecón (boardwalk).
• Valladolid:
  • Distance from Mérida: Approximately 160 kilometers east.
  • Highlights: Valladolid is known for its well-preserved colonial architecture and historical sites. The central square, Cenote Zaci, and the Convent of San Bernardino de Siena are among the city’s notable attractions.

• Las Coloradas:
  • Distance from Mérida: Approximately 290 kilometers northeast.
  • Highlights: Las Coloradas is famous for its vibrant pink salt flats, caused by high concentrations of salt-loving microorganisms. The contrast of the pink lakes against the blue sky is a unique and stunning sight.

When to Visit Merida

The best time to visit Mérida depends on your preferences for weather, as well as any specific events or activities you may want to experience. Mérida has a tropical climate, and there are distinct seasons:

1. Dry Season (Late Fall to Early Spring):
   • November to April: This period is considered the dry season, with lower chances of rain. The weather is generally warm and pleasant, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities, sightseeing, and exploring the city and surrounding areas.
2. Rainy Season (Late Spring to Early Fall):
   • May to October: Mérida experiences a more significant amount of rainfall during these months, particularly in the form of afternoon showers. While the rain can cool down the temperatures, it’s important to be prepared for wet conditions. The landscape is lush and green during this time.
3. Cultural and Festival Events:
   • Consider planning your visit during cultural events or festivals. For example, the Mérida International Arts Festival (January), Carnival (February), and the celebration of Hanal Pixán (Day of the Dead, late October to early November) are vibrant and culturally rich experiences.
4. Avoiding Extreme Heat:
   • If you want to avoid the hottest temperatures, it’s advisable to visit during the dry season, particularly from late fall to early spring. The summer months can be very hot and humid.
5. Flamingo Season:
   • If you plan to visit Celestún to see the flamingos, it’s best to go during the winter months, especially from November to February. During this time, large flocks of flamingos gather in the area.

Getting to Merida

Getting Around Merida

1. Walking:
   • Mérida’s city center is pedestrian-friendly, and walking is a great way to explore the historic sites, parks, and markets. The city is known for its vibrant street life, and walking allows you to soak in the local atmosphere.
2. Bicycles:
   • Many areas in Mérida have dedicated bike lanes, and the city has implemented efforts to become more bike-friendly. You can rent bicycles from local shops, and some hotels also offer bike rentals.
3. Taxis:
   • Taxis are readily available throughout Mérida. It’s advisable to use official taxi stands or arrange for one through your accommodation. Always agree on the fare with the driver before starting the journey, as most taxis in Mérida do not use meters.
4. Uber:
   • Uber operates in Mérida, providing a convenient and often more affordable alternative to traditional taxis. The app allows you to request rides and pay electronically.
5. Public Buses:
   • Mérida has a public bus system that covers various routes within the city and to nearby neighborhoods. Buses are an economical means of transportation, but the system may be challenging for non-Spanish speakers. Make sure to have small change for bus fares.
6. Car Rentals:
   • Renting a car gives you the flexibility to explore Mérida and the Yucatán Peninsula at your own pace. Rental car agencies are available at the airport and in the city. Be aware of local traffic rules and road conditions.
     • Busy Bee Tip: We really enjoyed having our own rental car and being able to freely come and go as we pleased. Especially if you plan to take any day trips from Merida, renting a car is definitely the way to go. Parking in and around Merida, even in the centro area, is super affordable and easy.

Parking in Downtown Merida

• We found the parking super easy in Merida! You can just search “parking” on google maps and it’ll take you to the closest lot. The lots typically cost around $2 and have an attendant who watches over the lots. The lots were everywhere in downtown and easy to find!

Where to Stay in Merida

Airbnb

We rented an Airbnb for our stay and LOVED it. The Airbnb was so cozy and beautifully decorated. It was in a great location – only about an 8 min drive from downtown, but far enough out that it was very quiet. We had our own private pool, outdoor shower, and easy parking. Click here to check out where we stayed!

Hotels

Budget Hotels:

1. Hotel MedioMundo:
   • Located in the Santiago neighborhood, Hotel MedioMundo offers affordable accommodation with a charming and relaxed atmosphere.
2. Casa del Maya Bed & Breakfast:
   • Situated on Calle 60, this budget-friendly bed and breakfast provide a comfortable stay with a touch of local character.
3. Hostal La Ermita:
   • A hostel option in Mérida, Hostal La Ermita is known for its friendly atmosphere and budget-friendly rates. It’s located near the historic center.

Mid-Range Hotels:

1. Luz en Yucatán:
   • A mid-range option with a boutique feel, Luz en Yucatán is located on Calle 60 and offers comfortable rooms with a historic ambiance.
2. Hotel Boutique Real San Juan:
   • Situated in the Santa Ana district, this hotel provides a mid-range option with tastefully decorated rooms and proximity to local attractions.
3. Casa Azul Monumento Histórico:
   • This mid-range hotel on Calle 60 offers a blend of modern amenities and historic charm, with comfortable rooms and a courtyard.

Luxury Hotels:

1. Casa Lecanda:
   • A luxury boutique hotel in the historic center, Casa Lecanda offers upscale rooms, personalized service, and a serene atmosphere.
2. Rosas & Xocolate Boutique Hotel & Spa:
   • Located on Paseo de Montejo, this luxury hotel boasts stylish design, a spa, and a rooftop pool, providing a high-end experience.
3. Hacienda Temozón:
   • For a luxurious and historical stay, Hacienda Temozón is a restored hacienda with beautiful grounds, elegant rooms, and top-notch amenities.
4. Hyatt Regency Mérida:
   • Situated north of the city near the Convention Center, Hyatt Regency Mérida offers luxury accommodations with modern facilities and services.

Additional Tips When Visiting Merida

• You will need pesos – most in Merida do take credit cards now, but a fair amount still don’t. It’s best to keep pesos with you just in case.
• Use reputable ATMs to get pesos. We found the best way to get pesos was by withdrawing money from our debit card at ATMs. *Make sure you decline the DCC option on the ATM for the best exchange rate.
  • ATMs at banks and grocery stores tend to be safest from credit card fraud.
  • You can find reviews about ATMs on google maps.
  • Choose ATMs that are well-lit and in populated areas to avoid muggings. Most bank and grocery ATMs feel super safe. A lot of the bank ATMs are enclosed and well-lit & grocery stores are always busy enough to feel secure.
• Bring a change purse or plastic baggy to carry around the coins. Peso coins are so frequently used, and you’ll want somewhere to put them! We had to keep throwing our coins in random bags and pockets because neither of our wallets have coin slots.
• Bring a Visa credit card. Most places throughout Mexico, including the touristy areas, don’t accept American Express, and very few accept Master Card.
• Tell your bank you’ll be travelling to Mexico. This will let them know that the purchases you’re making are real purchases & not fraud. Some banks will freeze or lock your card if they notice suspicious charges, and you don’t want this to happen while you’re on vacation! If you give them a heads up on where you’ll be, this typically won’t happen.
• Learn some Spanish. This probably goes without saying, but atleast try to learn a bit of the language before going. Merida is a lot different from the resort areas and most people don’t speak a lot of English there.