Things to do in Merida

Merida, Mexico, is the capital of the Mexican state of Yucatan, and is known for its valuable Mayan and colonial heritage. It is the most populated city in the region and, according to Mayan culture and tradition, was known as T’Ho. Merida is also one of the safest cities in the country and one of the most popular with tourists. It offers a wide range of tourist attractions, from monuments, tradition and gastronomy to outdoor activities. The Mayan culture plays a very important role in many of its monuments and points of interest. Undoubtedly, it is a place to discover and appreciate for its great traditional and cultural value.

Tourism in Merida Yucatan

Main Square of Merida, Mexico

This was the space chosen to become the Main Square, as it was located in the vicinity of one of the legendary hills of the city. Bakluumchan was its name in Mayan and means “snake that surrounds the earth”. Around this square are located some of the most important monuments of the city. Also, it is the place where the urban centre of Merida, Mexico is located. On the east side of the square is the Merida Cathedral, the Macay Museum of Contemporary Art. There is also the Casa Museo Montejo, the City Hall and the Governor’s Palace. Also, it is a very good starting point for your visit to Merida, Mexico.

It also has a park with paths, benches and lots of life. In addition, it is the place to take a breath and take a break and one of the key points of the city of Merida, Mexico. This is where the flag-raising ceremony is held. Here, you will find a lot of atmosphere, music and dance shows at any time of the day.

Merida Cathedral, Mexico

Built in the 15th century, this is the oldest cathedral in Mexico. Moreover, it is the first to be built in continental America. In addition, the cathedral of the city of Merida, Mexico, is considered the oldest cathedral built on the mainland of the continent. Also, inside the cathedral is the “Christ of Unity”, a sculpture considered to be the largest indoor sculpture in the world representing Jesus Christ crucified. This cathedral is one of the essential stops to see in the city. It is a unique place in the world that you cannot miss if you travel to the city of Merida, Mexico.

Paseo de Montejo

Paseo de Montejo is the most important avenue in Merida, Mexico. It is the main avenue of the city, and is named after its founder, Francisco de Montejo. Paseo Montejo extends from the centre of the city, specifically the Santa Ana neighbourhood, to the exit to the port of Progreso. It also has several extensions built during different periods. It has a tourist section that starts at Calle 49, as well as a commercial section called Prolongación Paseo de Montejo, starting at the Monumento a la Patria (Monument to the Homeland).

This is the main tourist thoroughfare in Merida, Mexico, stretching for 5km, and inspired by the design of French boulevards. As the longest street in the city, it is home to numerous restaurants, hotels, shops, museums and bars. Paseo de Montejo has an undeniable charm. Much of this value is due to the fact that it is guarded by Merida’s most elegant mansions. Such as Casa Peon de Minarete, Casa Quinta Montes Molina, or Casas Gemelas.

No matter where you come from or what the reason for your visit to Merida, Mexico is, this tour will take you into the essence and uniqueness of the capital of Yucatan. There is no better way to walk through this tour than walking and letting yourself be immersed in the original spirit of this place. In addition, large trees dominate the promenade, making it the green lung of Merida, Mexico.

Montejo House Museum

Built between 1543 and 1549, it was the palace of Francisco de Montejo himself, who gave it its name, making it one of the most important places in Merida, Mexico. Nowadays, it is a house-museum whose portico has remained original since its construction. It has 5 rooms that can be visited and a colonial style garden. The house was inaugurated in 1911 and since then it has maintained the original design in its entirety. There are exquisite architectural and decorative details, such as sculptures, paintings, stained glass and tapestries from all over the world. Admission is free and it is located on 63rd Street.

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Monumento a la Patria, the monument to see in Merida Mexico

This monument was inaugurated in April 1956 by the Colombian sculptor Romulo Rozo. It represents one of the most emblematic points of Merida, Mexico. The Monumento a la Patria has been part of this city for more than 60 years. Moreover, its presence has been an essential piece for the people of Merida. In addition to being a tourist attraction, this monument is a meeting point that brings together hundreds of locals every day.

It is a monument that symbolises the nostalgia of the old generations of the city and the state of Yucatan. It has more than 300 hand-carved figures, which represent the history of Mexico from the foundation of Tenochtitlan until the middle of the 20th century. A great number of figures alluding to the Mayan culture are visible on its façade. Among them a Chacmool, a ceiba tree surrounded by butterflies, also jaguars, as well as the coat of arms of the city.

Mayan archaeological site of Dzibilchaltún

Dzibilchaltún in Mayan language means “Place where there is writing on the stones”. Located only 20 minutes from the centre of Merida, this unique site is composed of the Temple of the Seven Dolls, a cenote and several pyramids. It also has a large museum, where you will find guides explaining the Mayan history surrounding this archaeological site.

There were settlements here from 500 BC until the Spanish conquest in approximately 1540 AD. It has an area of 19 square kilometres, with approximately 8400 structures in the round enclave. It is believed to have had a population of 40,000, making it one of the largest cities in Mesoamerica. The Temple of the Seven Dolls is also known as the Temple of the Sun. A square structure that was the focal point of the city. This second name may originate from the phenomenon that occurs twice a year, at the spring and autumn equinoxes. On that time, the dawn sun is visible through one window and rises from another. A tribute to the incredible mathematical knowledge of the Maya.

The Temple of the Seven Dolls is a strategic place to observe during the equinoxes how the sun passes exactly through the central hole it presents. But it is also the place where the sun is seen to rise at the summer and winter solstices. The accuracy in the construction of this temple is something very remarkable about this spot. Also, that it is still practically intact after more than 2000 years.

Canton Palace

This palace was inaugurated as the residence of General Francisco Canton, the former governor of Yucatan. It later became the Regional Museum of Anthropology of the State. The palace still maintains the French style of its construction, both in the exterior as well as in the interior. This building was a reference of the high society of Yucatan, and it is decorated with many elements brought from Europe.

Nowadays, this palace has a permanent exhibition that tells the history of the pre-Hispanic Mayan society. It also serves as a venue for cultural events, as well as temporary exhibitions and educational workshops. It is a place to see in Merida Mexico, to get to know and be immersed in the Mayan culture.

Markets of Merida, Mexico

One of the symbols of Merida, and of Mexico in general, is its characteristic and original gastronomy. Visiting its markets, investigating its autochthonous products, and tasting its rich recipes, is one of the plans that you cannot miss in Merida, Mexico. In the city of Merida, the markets are meeting points. These are places for socialising, and where you can find delicious freshly prepared dishes. These are the places where the noise, the atmosphere, the colours, and the food are a fundamental part of the essence that characterizes the city.

Lucas De Gálvez Market

The Lucas de Gálvez market is a market where every morning you can find a great variety of recipes and dishes to get to know the gastronomy of Yucatan. The stews of the Lonchería Cancún. Here you can find one of its most characteristic dishes, the empanada, are very well known and recommended. This recipe usually has cheese or ground meat inside, and is served with a rich red sauce, with the option of adding cabbage curtido with a touch of habanero chilli. The prices of the food here are very affordable, so don’t be shy and give it a try.

San Benito Market

This market is the ideal place to enjoy a wide variety of Yucatecan stews every day. Located in the market is the taqueria El Quimbombito y la Turquita, the ideal place to try typical and traditional recipes from the region. The tamal colado is a typical dish of this taqueria, and it is served on a banana leaf, generously bathed in the characteristic Yucatecan red sauce. Make the most of the occasion and sample the best dishes, while enjoying the local atmosphere, at this lively taqueria in the San Benito market.

Santa Ana Market

This is one of the busiest markets in Merida, Mexico. In the Santa Ana market there are also several places where you can try original Yucatecan dishes. One such place is Cocina Mary, where you can enjoy the typical panuchos, served with cochinita, lechon, and accompanied by turkey broth and tostadas. This recipe will not leave you indifferent, and without a doubt, you will want to repeat this purely Yucatecan dish.

Things to do with kids in Merida, Mexico, and surroundings

El Corchito

Just 30 minutes from Merida you will find the El Corchito Ecological Reserve. This is a place where you can enjoy the natural surroundings and spend a family day discovering the wildest part of Yucatan. The adventure begins with a boat trip that will take you to the opposite side, where you will find the three cenotes and two ojos de agua. This is the ideal place to swim and disconnect from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Progreso Estuary

Ría de Progreso is another of the natural spaces where it is worth taking a trip with the whole family. Here you can rent kayaks, as well as visit the mangrove swamp. It is perfect to go with the whole family and enjoy the wide range of outdoor activities that the estuary has to offer.

Chocolate Museum Eco Park

This is one of the best things to do with the family if you go to Merida, Mexico, and one of the favourites stops for children. In this eco-park you will learn about the history of chocolate in Mexico through the Mayan museum. It’s a real experience, where you’ll star in a Mayan ceremony. Walk along the paths and visit the animals that have been rescued, such as monkeys, jaguars, deer and parrots. The adventure is rounded off with a Yucatecan hot chocolate.

Campeche

Located two hours from Merida, Mexico, this is a city that was previously attacked by pirates. It is an interesting place, where you will find the buildings that were built to defend themselves from the pirates. These two forts are a must if you go to Campeche, and the fort of San Miguel has a museum with remains of ships and weapons.

Is Merida, Mexico, dangerous?

The National Survey on Public Safety shows that in the city of Merida the trend is different from the rest of the country. 72% of Yucatecans believe their state is safe, the highest figure in the country. Merida is a very safe city, in fact, many say it is the safest city in Mexico. Just in case, you should apply all possible precautionary measures.

Although public transport is a problem in Mexico, it doesn’t seem to affect Merida and in fact it is full of tourists who use it as a means of transport. Still, be careful as this is one of the main places where pickpockets operate.

Also, Merida is not prone to natural disasters like many other cities in Mexico. On the other hand, muggings and kidnappings are also not typical in this area of Mexico as this is a very peaceful city when it comes to violent crime. Still, it is advisable to avoid poorly lit and abandoned areas and to keep an eye on your wallet and personal belongings at all times.

What to do in Merida, Mexico, in 1 day?

If you are travelling to Merida with just one day, don’t worry, here is a suggested itinerary so that you can enjoy the charm and have time for the essentials.

The route starts at Paseo Montejo, then another obligatory stop is the Casa Museo Montejo, then the emblematic Monumento a la Patria in the city of Merida, Mexico. For lunch, any of the markets are an excellent option to taste the traditional food of the state of Yucatan. In the afternoon, a visit to the Mayan archaeological site of Dzibilchaltún is a must to connect with the essence of the city. Finally, the day can be completed by strolling around Merida’s main square and looking for a place to have dinner.

What to do in Merida, Mexico, in 3 days?

Three days in Merida, Mexico, will allow you to visit the most magical and emblematic corners of the city and its surroundings.

• First day: Paseo Montejo, Montejo House Museum, San Benito Market, Monument to the Homeland, and Canton Palace.

• Second day: Excursion to the Mayan archaeological site of Dzibilchaltún, Lucas Gálvez Market, Merida’s main square, and Merida Cathedral.

• Third Day: Excursion to El Corchito.

Travel Itinerary for Merida, Mexico

Taking this post as a reference, you can organize your trip before visiting Merida, Mexico. Remember to download the Passporter App to create your itinerary quickly and easily. With the Passporter App you can add the points of interest and things to do that you liked the most among our suggestions. Remember that you can also sort them by days and areas of the city. Download the App and enjoy!

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