Top Things to do in Merida
Top 10 Budget-friendly Things to do in Merida, Yucatan
The Yucatan capital has both colonial and Mayan treasures to discover. Nearby ruins at Uxmal give some insight into the lives of the predecessors of the conquistadores, who arrived in 1542. Mayan culture is also still evident in Merida's daily life and in the many colorful festivals celebrated here.
Restaurants in Merida
1. Nahualli Casa de los Artistas
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 138 reviews
In the heart of Merida's Historic Center, Casa Estudio was born and continues to grow. It has evolved into a place where contemporary visual art and the solemn elegance of colonial architecture converge, creating an environment at once original and distinguished for its extensive collection of beautiful and masterfully done paintings, sculpture. drawings and prints.
Reviewed By marytA5839NE
There was some very interesting sculpture and visual art at this gallery. It is close to Santa Ana park and I would recommend a visit if you are in the area.
2. Ruta Puuc
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 558 reviews
Reviewed By JimP988 - Los Angeles, United States
The main site, Uxmal, is perhaps the most beautiful in all of Yucatan, though it is worth the effort to hire a guide to see Kabah, Sayil, Xlapak, and Labna, which are just down the road. You can stay at Uxmal, Ticul, or Santa Elena.
3. Plaza Grande
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,478 reviews
Also known as Plaza de Armas, this city square contains some of the most historically significant and aesthetically pleasing buildings in Merida.
Reviewed By JimP988 - Los Angeles, United States
In Merida's typical hot weather, it is relaxing to get a shoe shine and watch the crowds. You will have people try to sell you handicrafts, but that could be fun, too. On Sundays, the entire plaza is full of food and drink stalls and vendors of artesanias.
4. Museo Casa Montejo
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 697 reviews
Facing the main square in Merida, this extraordinary building dates back to 1549 and is built with intricate artistry in the Spanish Plateresque style.
Reviewed By JimP988 - Los Angeles, United States
Run by Banamex, this museum has several rooms of furniture from the Montejo family that conquered Yucatan, as well as several exhibit rooms. When I was there, I saw an excellent exhibit of Mexican folk art.
5. Paseo de Montejo
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 3,418 reviews
This wide avenue, modeled after Paris' Champs Elysees, is lined with the mansions of Merida's old aristocracy.
Reviewed By laBostoniana - Boston, United States
Historic Merida has narrow sidewalks and the main street, Calle 60, is not a pleasant walk because busses and trucks practically brush up against you as they dominate the road and you must walk single file. A bit north of historic district Paseo de Montejo has wide sidewalks, interesting old mansions, and actually allows for pleasant ambling.
6. Palacio Canton
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 151 reviews
Once the home of General Francisco Canton Rosada, this building now houses artifacts and memorabilia as the Anthropology Museum.
Reviewed By JaysRE - Montreal, Canada
I dislike using terms like an "icon" - but it is one on the Paseo. Well worth the visit even just walking around it
7. Anthropology and History Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 506 reviews
This museum traces the city through history, from its colonial Spanish plazas to the modern bustling streets of today.
Reviewed By JimP988 - Los Angeles, United States
Located in the Palacio Canton on the Paseo Montejo, this museum is a required visit if you are interested in visiting any Maya archeological sites. The exhibits on view here are the best of the best -- and the building they are in is interesting too from an architectural viewpoint.
8. Mayapan Archaeological Zone
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 672 reviews
Reviewed By DocStewart
Mayapan is a smaller Mayan archaeological site that is a short drive from Merida, Yucatan. It can easily visited in half a day. Pay to get the guide when you visit to learn about the significant differences of this site from the others in the area. This site bears a stronger Toltec influence. There are many different structures that have been partially restored and climbing up to the tops is still allowed. Since this site is not very well known it is not as crowded or commercialized as the other better know sites. Yet it is very impressive and reflects a different cultural influence.
9. Merida English Library
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 156 reviews
Merida English Library is based on the model of the classic, local public library, which is the centerpiece of every community in the United States and Canada. Its mission is to provide English language materials in all formats to meet the information, educational and recreational needs of English-speaking people of all ages in the diverse communities which make up Merida, Yucatan, Mexico. Its also a great place for a visitor to meet other English-speaking people and see what is going on in the expat community in Merida. Everyone is welcome to use the library during regular hours. To check-out books, you must become a member. For membership fees, visit our website.
Reviewed By FelipeNavajas - Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico
The library has a large selection of books and DVDs, frequent events (including a two-day weekend art walk - superb), and twice weekly English conversation clubs. A drawback is that it is closed in the afternoon, but well worth a visit. No food except for coffee, softdrinks, etc.
10. Zona Arqueologica de Dzibilchaltun
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,537 reviews
Reviewed By SeekSunUsa
We had a great time climbing and viewing the lovely archeological sites and when we got sweaty, we could take a dip in the beautiful cenote in the middle of the site. It was super peaceful in the morning, and then the tour busses arrived just as we were leaving. If you want a relaxing experience, try to make it when they open.
