Understand

Merida, a city of contrasts, offers a wide range of experiences to its visitors. In the northern part of the city, you will find elegant hotels, restaurants, and malls that cater to a luxurious lifestyle. Downtown, there are accommodations and dining options to suit every budget, making it accessible for all. One of the highlights of Merida is its vibrant cultural life. Every day, you can immerse yourself in the city's rich diversity through free concerts, performances, and events. The main plaza is surrounded by a large central market and numerous small shops, offering a unique shopping experience. As you explore the old part of town, keep an eye out for bits of ancient Maya stonework incorporated into Spanish Colonial era buildings, adding a touch of history to the cityscape. Founded by the Spanish Conquistadors in the 1540s, Merida has a fascinating history. It was built on top of the ancient Maya city called T'ho, leaving traces of its past throughout the city. The palatial home of the Conquistador leader Montejo's family can still be seen on the south side of the bustling Zcalo or main square. In the late 1800s to the 1920s, Merida experienced a prosperous boom period fueled by the henequen or sisal plant harvest. This made Yucatan the rope maker to the world. Forward-thinking Merida was ahead of its time, having electric trams and street lights even before Mexico City. The wealthy residents constructed the grand Pasejo Montejo avenue, inspired by the iconic Champs-Elysees in Paris. Though the sisal boom eventually ended, Merida remains a vibrant provincial capital with a colonial ambiance. The climate of Merida is tropical, with varying daytime temperatures throughout the year. Be prepared for mild winters around 75 degrees Fahrenheit (24 Celsius) in January and hotter summers around 95F (35C) in June. In order to beat the heat, locals are most active during the mornings and take a siesta after lunch before returning to work in the late afternoon. The evenings bring cool breezes from the Gulf of Mexico, which provide the perfect opportunity for residents to enjoy the outdoors. You'll find people strolling along the streets, gathering in the plazas, and dining in the numerous sidewalk restaurants. While Merida itself offers a myriad of attractions, it also serves as a great base for day trips to explore the surrounding area. Discover archaeological sites, ecological parks, traditional villages, caves, beaches, and colonial missions. Take your time to immerse yourself in the rich history and natural beauty of the region. From walking for miles along the Gulf of Mexico to capturing the vibrant village festivals, there is something for everyone in Merida and its vicinity.

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

**Tacos al Pastor**: A traditional Mexican dish consisting of marinated pork (although sometimes made without meat or with chicken and other meats) cooked on a vertical spit, then thinly sliced and served in corn tortillas. The dish is typically garnished with pineapple, fresh cilantro, and diced onions, and accompanied by a spicy salsa.

**Mole Poblano**: A rich, complex sauce originating from the region of Puebla, mole poblano is typically made with a combination of chili peppers, nuts, seeds, chocolate, and spices, resulting in a slightly sweet and deeply flavorful sauce. It is often served over chicken or vegetables, and garnished with sesame seeds and edible flower petals.

**Guacamole**: A famous Mexican dip made from mashed avocado, lime juice, salt, and often combined with chopped tomatoes, onions, jalapeno peppers, and cilantro. It is typically served with tortilla chips or used as a condiment for various dishes.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing