Merida, Mexico, holds a special place in my heart. I lived there for four years and have returned at least once a year ever since, especially since my mom retired there. During a couple of recent visits, I fell in love with the city all over again, this time through the eyes of loved ones, who were experiencing Merida for the first time. There’s something magical about this place—it’s incredibly underrated and often overlooked by travelers. Known for its family-friendly atmosphere and being widely considered the safest city in Mexico, Merida offers a unique blend of history, culture, and adventure. The best part? There’s so much to do, but it’s not overwhelming. From exploring colonial architecture and ancient ruins to swimming in pristine cenotes and savoring mouth-watering Yucatecan food, there’s something for every traveler. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or someone seeking relaxation on the beach, Mérida delivers on all fronts. Here’s a guide to some of the can’t-miss, homerun things to do in Merida.
Explore the Rich History and Architecture
Merida is steeped in centuries of history, with its roots stretching back to the ancient Maya civilization. A great place to start your exploration is the Centro Histórico, which boasts the second-largest historic center in Mexico. As you wander through the narrow streets, you’ll discover grand colonial mansions, colorful buildings, and beautiful squares. Don’t miss a visit to the Catedral de San Ildefonso, one of the oldest cathedrals in the Americas, or the Palacio de Gobierno, with its impressive murals that tell the story of the region’s past.For those with a penchant for historical walking tours, the city offers free walking tours with local guides that dive deep into Mérida’s history. They’re available Monday through Saturday at 9:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., making it an easy way to get acquainted with the city’s highlights.
Discover Local Markets
Merida is famous for its bustling markets, and a visit to Lucas de Gálvez Market is a must. This labyrinthine space is full of local produce, handmade goods, and vibrant food stalls. While it can get a little overwhelming, it’s a sensory delight. On the weekends, the market is especially crowded, but you can enjoy the quieter mornings if you’re looking for a more relaxed shopping experience. Pro tip: head out the back of the market for the best tacos al pastor with rotisserie pineapple—one of the city’s hidden gems.
For a more unique experience, check out the Slow Food Market on Saturdays. This market is a favorite among locals and expats alike, with stalls offering everything from Korean hot dogs to artisanal baked goods.
Visit a Cenote
Cenotes, natural sinkholes filled with fresh water, are a unique feature of the Yucatán Peninsula. While there are many cenotes to visit near Merida, Homún is one of my favorites. It’s about an hour outside the city, and the best part is that many of these cenotes are less crowded, giving you a chance to enjoy them in peace. Swimming in a cenote is a magical experience, and with so many options to choose from, you’re sure to find one that feels like your own private oasis.
there are roughly 6,000 cenotes in the Yucatan but I’ve had great experiences with Cenote Xtojil, Cenote Yaxbacaltun and Santa Cruz Cenote.
Swimming in a cenote is really something exceptionally unique to this region, in terms of things to do in Merida, this is top of the list.
Enjoy Merida’s Parks and Plazas
Merida’s parks and squares are central to its charm. Parque Santa Lucía, known for its lively atmosphere, is a great place to relax after a day of exploring. On Wednesdays, you’ll find free performances here, including traditional danzas and live music. Another popular spot, Parque Santa Ana, offers a mix of old souvenir shops and market stalls, giving you a true sense of the city’s spirit.Be sure to visit Plaza Principal in the evenings, where you can enjoy the beautiful architecture, street performances, and people-watching. Grab a gelato from Pola Gelato—my personal favorite—and enjoy it while taking in the lively scene.
Indulge in Yucatecan Cuisine
Merida is a food lover’s paradise, and no trip would be complete without indulging in the city’s famous Yucatecan cuisine. Try a hearty serving of cochinita pibil, slow-roasted pork marinated in achiote, or sample the delicious panuchos—refried tortillas filled with beans and topped with pickled onions, cabbage, and shredded chicken or turkey. If you’re craving tacos, head to Wyanae’s for a casual street food experience or to La Lupita for some of the city’s best tacos de lechón (roast pork).
Also, what is better than nachos for breakfast? In my mind absolutely nothing. Chil-Akil has my favorite chilaquiles in the whole world. I recommend the arrachera chilaquiles with verde sauce.
Visit Calle 47 Merida’s restaurant row with some of the city’s fanciest restaurants. We enjoyed a perfectly cooked octopus at Micaela Mar y Luna , delicious Oaxacan food at Sandunga and an expresso from Baretto – Expresso Bar nearly every morning. Its a great place for a walk and I can guarantee you’ll find a couple of exceptional meals.
Discover the Beaches Nearby
While Merida itself is not on the coast, it’s just a short drive away from several beautiful beaches. Progreso is the most accessible, offering beach clubs where you can lounge, enjoy fresh seafood, and sip on cocktails. For a quieter experience, venture to Sisal or Celestún, where you can enjoy serene beaches and visit the famous flamingo reserve.
To get to Progreso the bus costs about two USD and takes under an hour. Alternatively, you could take an Uber and get there in about 35 minutes for USD 15. Both options are simple and effective. The way the beaches here work is you go to lounge chairs associated with restaurants and order food and/or drink and with that purchase, you can use their umbrellas, loungers, and bathroom facilities. Most recently we spent the day at Crabsters, a favorite and I’d say the most lux of the restaurants on the beach. We were there for 4 hours and enjoyed guacamole, coconut shrimp, shrimp tacos, and two pina coladas for under $50 USD. Both the food and the service were outstanding.
Take a Day Trip to Uxmal
If you’re a fan of ancient history, you can’t miss a visit to the Uxmal ruins, located about an hour from Mérida. Uxmal is one of the most impressive Mayan archaeological sites, with stunning pyramids and palaces set against a lush jungle backdrop. It’s less crowded than the famous Chichen Itza, giving you a more peaceful experience to take in the awe-inspiring architecture. Afterward, stop at a nearby cenote for a refreshing dip.
