Merida is a colonial city that is growing fast, both in expat population and Mexican population.  It’s very safe, close to the beach and there is always something to do which makes it a desirable city to live in or just visit.  Every night there is a free cultural event and over the weekend there is plenty to do.  Saturday night welcomes Noche Mexicana in EL Remate located at the beginning of Paseo de Montejo avenue. A stage and chairs are set up and performers from all over Mexico come to show off their talents. While the show is going on, you can enjoy ice cream or other foods from vendors like marquesitas, which are crepe type tortillas filled with your choice of nutella or cheese. There are also local artisans selling handicrafts such as hammocks or guayaberas.  In Merida on Sunday the grand plaza is closed to cars and the streets are filled with food vendors, artisans and entertainment for the whole family. There are street performers ranging from children break dancing to the Yucatan Symphony performing an outdoor concert. The church offers mass in English at 9:15. This is the place to be on Sunday in the Yucatan. You can find authentic Mexican food, shopping and people.  Merida is a wonderful city to use as a base for visiting the Yucatan.   Our offices are located here and all our staff lives here.  We are the Merida experts!!

Archaeological Museum - This fabulous colonial mansion was turned into a first rate archaeological museum housing artifacts from local ruins.

Historic City Center - With all the colonial architecture, this is a must see in Merida.

Surrounding Merida:

Chichen Itza:  Incredible Mayan ruins located about 1.5 hours from Merida and recently named one of the seven wonders of the world.  Read more about Chichen Itza on our destination page.

Uxmal – one of the most amazing sites in the Yucatan, we put it in the same category as Chichen Itza.  

Puuc Route – Tour the different Mayan sites all with the same Puuc architecture such as Uxmal, Mayapan, Kabah, Labna or others.

Convent Route – Visit some of the Yucatan’s colonial towns which house amazing cathedrals and convents.  

 Tres Epocas – Certain towns such as Acanceh or Izamal are known as cities with three eras as they have ruins from the Mayas, churches or structures dating from the 1500’s when the Spanish came, as well as current modern amenities and architecture.

Cenotes – Freshwater sinkholes located throughout the Yucatan.  Some are in caves, some are partially visible from land and others are just open water like a pond.  They are truly magical and a must see for anyone in the Yucatan.

Beach – There are many beaches within driving distance to Merida.  Progresso is popular with locals but Celestun is a bit more interesting as it has a freshwater river feeding into the sea.  Both are beautiful places to relax. Beside, there is Celestun, a beach where you can see the pink flamingos too, there are thousands of them.