Merida is a photogenic town located on Mexico’s Yucatan peninsula with buildings as colorful as a box of Crayola crayons. Its streets are no less lively thanks to constant impromptu music and dance.
This is the heart of the Mayan world, so it’s a great base for exploring must-see archeological ruins from this mystical civilization.
Merida’s steamy temperatures and sultry nights give it a seductive Caribbean flair. And while it’s not undiscovered, you won’t really notice the other travelers thanks to its generous size and abundance of narrow streets and wide plazas to get lost in. Think of it as Quintana Roo’s super cool aunt who always has awesome stories to tell.
If you’re looking for an authentic Mexican experience, this lively city should top your list.
Allison is a travel and food writer based in NYC. Her work has been published in The New York Times, off Metro, Dave’s Travel Corner and Family Travel Forum.
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1. Cenotes in Dzibilchaltún
Thousands of freshwater, free form pools called cenotes dot the lush landscape, presenting unbeatable aquatic possibilities. The Dzibilchaltún Cenote is situated in the shadows of mystical Mayan archeological ruins, adding history to your afternoon swim.
Dzibilchaltún was once a great Mayan city seven miles north of Merida and is now accessible via public bus right from the center of Merida. Enter through a landscaped path flanked by shady trees that leads to the pristine Temple of the Seven Dolls. After you've had your fill of exploring historical vestiges, cool off with an invigorating dip in the refreshing turquoise water.
Photo courtesy of Yucatan Travel
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2. Mérida en Domingo
Merida's tree-lined Plaza Grande is the heart of this vibrant city. While there are almost always live music and performances, the square really comes alive for the city's cherished Mérida en Domingo event. Each Sunday, visitors are enticed here with the sounds of live mariachi and marimba bands. The entertainment is homegrown fabulous, ranging from abuelos doing the mambo and cha-cha to professional folkloric dancers. Select streets are closed to traffic Sunday, so rent a bike and enjoy the merriment from your two-wheeled perch.
Photo courtesy of Yucatan Travel
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3. El Gran Museo del Mundo Maya
The Yucatan is home to one of the world's largest Mayan populations and their legacy can be explored at the engaging and interactive El Gran Museo del Mundo Maya. It presents a comprehensive historical overview of these complex people. A rich and detailed collection of artifacts plus high-tech, multimedia exhibits help to seamlessly carry the past into the present.
Photo by Allison Tibaldi
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4. Catedral de San Ildefonso
Built in the 16th century on the site where the Maya temple once stood, the Catedral de San Ildefonso was the first cathedral to be completed on the American mainland. Much of its original adornments were stripped away by angry protesters during the Mexican Revolution, so its hulking exterior and white stone interior are austere, lacking the golden gaudiness often associated with Mexican churches. Some of the stone from the original Mayan temple has been incorporated into the imposing structure.
Photo courtesy of Yucatan Travel
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5. Lucas de Gálvez Market
For a taste of local flavor, the Lucas de Gálvez Market is a joyfully chaotic ode to Mexican commerce. Vendors sell a range of goods, from exquisite handmade crafts to dime store junk.
Street food was practically invented in Mexico and you'll find plenty of zesty options for a midday nibble at this market. It's a convivial mish-mash of fresh produce, warm tortillas, clucking chickens and grassroots entrepreneurial energy.
Photo courtesy of Yucatan Travel
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6. La Chaya Maya
Merida's visual beauty is sublime, but the tantalizing aromas wafting through its vibrant plazas and candy-colored streets are catnip for hungry tourists. Locals lusting for authentic homegrown taste favor the easy-on-the-budget La Chaya Maya. This temple of traditional cooking is heavy on classics like Cochinita Pibil (pictured), pork marinated in a sauce of annatto and sour orange before being slow-roasted in banana leaves, resulting in a fork-tender dish with soul-satisfying flavor.
For the local potent drink of choice, try Xtabentún, better known as the liquor of the gods. Its flavor profile is heavy on the honey and anise; think Fernet-Branca on steroids.
Photo courtesy of Yucatan Travel
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7. Casa Lecanda
Casa Lecanda is one of the many fine hacienda hotels in Merida. This former in-town colonial estate has been lovingly transformed into an intimate boutique property. It retains many original details without skimping on 21st century comforts, so you'll effortlessly soak in traditional decor, food and hospitality without sacrificing luxury. The lap pool, breezy hammocks and house cocktails infused with tropical fruit make it a true sanctuary.
Photo courtesy of Yucatan Travel