Merida, Mexico
What to do in Merida, Mexico
Explore the Paseo de Montejo
Paseo de Montejo is the most famous avenue in Merida, known for its stunning European-style architecture, grand mansions, and historical monuments. Tourists can take a leisurely stroll along the tree-lined boulevard, admire the 19th-century French-inspired buildings, and visit landmarks such as the Palacio Cantón and the Monumento a la Patria. The avenue also offers a vibrant array of restaurants, cafés, and shops, making it an ideal spot for both sightseeing and leisurely indulgence.
Discover the Mayan History at Chichen Itza
Chichen Itza, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, is a must-visit destination near Merida. This ancient Mayan city features the iconic El Castillo pyramid, the Temple of the Warriors, the Great Ball Court, and the Sacred Cenote. Visitors can immerse themselves in the rich history and culture of the Mayan civilization while marveling at the architectural brilliance of these well-preserved structures.
Immerse in Culture at the Gran Museo del Mundo Maya
The Gran Museo del Mundo Maya offers an insightful journey into the cultural heritage of the Yucatan Peninsula. The museum showcases an extensive collection of artifacts, exhibits, and interactive displays that delve into the history, traditions, and contemporary life of the Maya civilization. Visitors can explore the diverse range of archaeological treasures, artworks, and multimedia presentations, providing a comprehensive understanding of the region’s fascinating past and present.
Indulge in Yucatecan Cuisine at Mercado Lucas de Gálvez
Mercado Lucas de Gálvez is a vibrant and bustling market where tourists can savor the authentic flavors of Yucatecan cuisine. From savory cochinita pibil and papadzules to refreshing aguas frescas and exotic fruits, the market offers a diverse culinary experience. Travelers can wander through the colorful stalls, interact with local vendors, and relish the traditional dishes that embody the rich gastronomic heritage of the Yucatan region.
Enjoy the Serenity of Cenotes
Merida is surrounded by breathtaking natural wonders, including cenotes—natural sinkholes filled with crystal-clear water. Tourists can escape the city’s hustle and bustle by visiting cenotes such as Cenote X’batun or Cenote Dzitnup, where they can swim, snorkel, or simply soak in the tranquil ambiance of these enchanting geological formations. These natural pools provide a refreshing and serene retreat, allowing visitors to connect with the beauty of the Yucatecan landscape.
Example Two-Day Itinerary
Day 1
Morning: Explore the Historic Center Start your day by visiting the Plaza Grande, the main square of Merida. Take a leisurely walk to admire the beautiful colonial architecture and visit the iconic landmarks such as the Merida Cathedral and the Palacio de Gobierno. Don’t miss the Casa de Montejo, a 16th-century mansion that is a fine example of Spanish colonial architecture.
Afternoon: Visit Paseo de Montejo Head to Paseo de Montejo, a grand avenue lined with elegant mansions and monuments. Enjoy a leisurely stroll or rent a bicycle to explore the area and soak in the European ambiance. Make sure to visit the Palacio Cantón, home to the Regional Museum of Anthropology, to delve into the history and culture of the Yucatan.
Evening: Experience the Serenity of Parque de Santa Lucia In the evening, head to Parque de Santa Lucia, a charming park surrounded by colorful colonial buildings. This area is known for its vibrant nightlife, traditional Yucatecan music, and cultural performances. Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and perhaps catch a live music performance at one of the nearby restaurants or bars.
Day 2
Morning: Discover the Mayan Culture at Dzibilchaltun Start your day with a trip to Dzibilchaltun, a fascinating Mayan archaeological site located just a short drive from Merida. Explore the ancient temples, the famous Temple of the Seven Dolls, and cool off in the refreshing waters of the cenote Xlacah, which is within the site.
Afternoon: Indulge in Hacienda Life Visit one of the nearby haciendas, such as Hacienda Yaxcopoil or Hacienda Sotuta de Peón. These beautifully restored estates provide insight into the henequen industry and offer guided tours showcasing the opulent architecture and history of the region.
Evening: Enjoy the Culinary Delights of Merida Spend your evening exploring the culinary scene of Merida. The city is renowned for its diverse and flavorful Yucatecan cuisine. Head to one of the local markets such as Mercado Lucas de Galvez or Mercado Santiago to sample traditional dishes and snacks. Alternatively, enjoy a leisurely dinner at one of the many charming restaurants in the city, savoring delicious local specialties and refreshing drinks.
This itinerary provides a comprehensive overview of Merida’s cultural and historical offerings, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of the region.
Mayan Ruins
Journey to ancient Mayan ruins near Merida, such as Uxmal and Chichen Itza, to marvel at the archaeological wonders of the region.
Ek Balam, Valladolid and Cenote Private Tour
This is a tour that combines a visit to the ancient city of Ek Balam and the charm to visit the beautiful colonial city of Valladolid in Yucatan. We will also visit a amazing cenote where you enjoy a delicious lunch with traditional Yucatan dishes.
Enjoy at your own pace and without itineraries of the Mayan culture and Yucatan.
Book Today on Viator From $210.00
Private Historical Tour in Chichen Itza and Izamal
Join us on a private tour with us and explore the most emblematic and significant ruins of the Mayan civilization. Chichen Itza, a majestic archaeological site brimming with mysticism, holds astronomical, mathematical, and architectural marvels, making it a must-visit destination for Yucatan travelers.
Accompanied by a certified guide, you will unravel the wonders of this ancient site, including the awe-inspiring Pyramid "El Castillo," the Observatory, The Ball Court, and numerous other fascinating structures.
After our visit to Chichen Itza, we will continue our journey to Ik-Kil, an incredible cenote where you can refresh yourself in its cool waters while reveling in the spectacular view.
To finish our tour, we will visit Izamal, a colonial city known as "the city of three cultures," as it combines features from its pre-Hispanic past, colonial period, and the present era. We will visit Its most significant construction, the Conjunto Conventual de Nuestra Señora de Izamal.
Book Today on Viator From $240.00
Tour to Uxmal + Choco Story Chocolate Museum
Discover the nature and history of Yucatan on this tour with round-trip transportation and lunch. Visit the ancient city of Uxmal and explore the ancient roots and global significance of cacao.
Remember that tickets are not included. They are paid in cash upon boarding!
Book Today on Viator From $89.00
Ancestral Mayan Private Culinary Experience in Merida
Enjoy an ancestral Mayan experience in an excellent culinary activity. Discover the secrets of the Mayan past in the elaboration of dishes in an artisanal way, you can delight your palate with drinks, snacks and Mayan food. Relax and enjoy the surroundings in a beautiful environment of local flora and fauna. At the end you can enjoy a dance in the form of a musical known as Show de jarana before returning to the city.
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $138.00
Food Tours
Indulge in the delicious flavors of Yucatecan cuisine with food tours that showcase the local dishes and ingredients.
Merida Walking Food Tour. Authentic & Local Cuisine
A unique and completely incomparable experience with a knowledgeable guide that accompanies you in this three-hour tour around Merida, typically away from common tourist hot-spots. If you have an adventurous spirit and want to taste the authentic flavors of Mexico and meet its people, this is the tour for you.
With small group tours of no more than ten departing from Monday through Saturday, you’ll receive a highly immersive, generous and friendly experience. Perfect for couples, groups of friends, and families
Book Today on Viator From $55.50
Private Yucatecan Cooking Lesson in a Local Merida Home
Step inside the kitchen with Sofia for an authentic, hands-on cooking lesson of Yucatecan and Mayan delicacies. Sofia prepares traditional Yucatecan dishes such as sikil pak (traditional pumpkin seed dip), sopa de lima (chicken soup with lime), empanadas de chaya, and pollo o cochinita pibil (perhaps the Yucatan’s most famous dish of slow-cooked chicken or pork which has been marinated in an achiote and sour orange marinade, wrapped in banana leaves).
Sofia will teach you to prepare traditional recipes from scratch so be prepared to get your hands dirty. You will learn to prepare the entire meal as well as a fiery habanero salsa. Enjoy the delicious meal you helped prepare with your host (and her family on occasion) in her modest home in Merida. Please note that Sofia runs a homestay so while your experience will be private, there may be other guests present in her home. Enjoy this private, authentic, immersive Yucatecan food experience with a local!
Book Today on Viator From $90.00
Full day tours in Izamal, Valladolid and Cenote de Hubiku
Visit Yucatan Mérida with us. With years of experience in tours and transfers in Mérida Yucatán, we offer a level of security and guarantee that will make your trip an unforgettable experience. In addition, the experience of our guides will guarantee a safe and pleasant stay in Mérida. Come share the experience with us and explore this State that will make you fall in love at first sight. Explore the beautiful magical towns of Valladolid and Izamal, on a private tour.
One of the most popular and largest cenotes you will find near the city of Valladolid, Cenote Hubiku. This semi-open cenote features an opening in the ceiling of the cave through which natural light enters to illuminate the interior, while long tree roots cascade into its waters. Something really beautiful.
Our tours are perfect for travelers interested in history, culture, and natural beauty.
Book Today on Viator From $287.99
Visit Chichen Itza, a Wonder of the Modern World + Valladolid + Cenote in 1 day
When you come to visit the Yucatan Peninsula, don't forget to stop by these locations full of colors, magic, and history.
During one day, we will take you to 3 points you can't miss: Chichen Itza, Valladolid, and the cenotes.
Sometimes it's a little hard to organize all the logistics for a trip on your own, but we take care of it, so you only enjoy it.
Get to know the history behind Chichen Itza, one of the 7 wonders of the modern world and that you can't miss, as well as the colonial city of Valladolid and a cenote, a sacred place for the ancient Mayas.
Get to know the history behind the people who inhabited this place thousands of years ago. Pass through one of their cities (Chichen Itza and their cenotes) and finish in Valladolid to know their history after the Spanish conquest.
This is a tour that combines everything in just one place. Make sure to take a lot of pictures as you will want to re-live this adventure over and over again of how fantastic it is.
Book Today on Viator From $625.00
Historical Tours
Discover the colonial architecture and historical landmarks of Merida on guided tours that provide insight into the city's past.
Chichen Itza, Private Cenote , Food Experience & the magic Izamal
Small groups of 10 travelers maximum in a small comfortable van. We will pick you up at the meeting point 5 50 am, We want to get early to Chichen Itza to enjoy it without crowds, the heat and have amazing pictures. Our professional licensed tourguide will explain the history and the importance of the mayan city. Afterwards we will take a 45 minutes drive to meet a family in a small mayan community, they gonna let us swimm and enjoy their private underground cenote which they found not so many years ago. You will also enjoy a degustation of the best gastronomy of the Yucatan with the real home flavors, we'll move to Izamal yellow town to climb a mayan pyramid that is within the city, enjoy a tasty icecream and visit the old convent and church of the city.At the end of the day we will return to Merida..
The food experience includes
guacamole, panuchos, salbutes, relleno negro, cochinita pibil, hand made tortillas, hibiscus flower cold tea & fresh fruit
Book Today on Viator From $89.94
Chichen Itza, Cenote & Buffet Lunch
Leave Mérida to go to one of the 7 new wonders of the world, Chichen Itzá, an enigmatic city and ceremonial center.
Chichen Itzá, which in Mayan means "Mouth of the well of the water sorcerers" is an enigmatic city and ceremonial center of significant influence. Get to know everything about this incredible archaeological site and its ancient history.
First, head directly to Chichén Itzá from Mérida, and during the ride, the guide will start telling you a bit about the Mayan's and their history.
Once at Chichén Itzá be ready to admire this site before the crowds and heat arrive.
Have free time to explore this unique archaeological site, which has the protection of UNESCO.
After visiting Chichen Itzá, taste a delicious Mexican buffet lunch and recharge energies before heading to the Cenote.
Next stop will be a beautiful cenote where you will enjoy its magical and warm waters where you can bathe and cool off from the heat.
We will finish the tour by returning to Mérida.
Book Today on Viator From $75.00
Tour to Uxmal, Cenote & Kabah from Merida
Visit one of the most important archaeological sites of the ancient Mayan culture, in our comfortable units with excellent service and a relaxed atmosphere.
Then we will visit the majestic site of Kabah.
Then we will go to the Pebá cenote where you will enjoy a relaxing afternoon.
*The trip we offer is purely transportation, upon arrival at the destinations you must pay for access. Sundays are free for locals, nationals, and foreigners residing in Mexico.
Book Today on Viator From $107.40
Chichen Itza Full Day Tour
We are going to visit Chichén Itzá, wonder of the modern world, Chichén receives thousands of people every day, so the ideal is to be one of the first to enter the site, without lines, without vendors, without large groups, the most important thing is that We will avoid the intense heat of midday and we will take the best photos.
For that we have designed a different logistics, since we start the pick up at 6:00 am. and that makes all the difference.
We will be in Chichén for 2 hours, and then we will go swimming in a Mayan cenote, where we cool off and enjoy a delicious typical and regional food, in the same way we will be 2 hours not to run and enjoy 100%.
Finally we will go to the yellow town, IZAMAL where you will have the opportunity to climb one of the largest and highest temples in Mexico (Kinich Kak mo) and the convent of San Antonio de Padua.
Our groups are small and this GUARANTEES a totally PERSONALIZED experience, with the best story and THE BEST EXPERIENCE.
Book Today on Viator From $90.00
Nature Excursions
Escape to the natural beauty surrounding Merida with excursions to cenotes, wildlife reserves, and ecological parks.
Celestun Beach and Mangrove Boat Ride from Merida
The Celestun reserve is filled with multiple wild life species like migratory birds, flamingos, crocodiles, racoons, fish and much more!
Our guide will take us to a boat ride troughout the Celestun mangrove, he will point out all the highlights of the reserve. We'll pass the point where the sea and the river meets
After the ride, now it's time to relax a the gorgeous Celestun beach. The white sand and the blue unspoiled sea will be the best view to relax and have a nice swim. At the beach we'll head to the restaurant for the meal
Nature and beauty is waiting for you!
Book Today on Viator From $120.00
Experience Honey Tasting and Stingless Bees from Merida Yucatan
Bees play a vital role in our ecosystems, agriculture, and overall well-being. Learning about and appreciating their work is crucial for our planet.
We will learn about honey and bees and their importance in nature, allowing us to take action for conservation and better decisions when consuming!
Book Today on Viator From $42.54
Adventure to Mayapan Ruins & Swim at Cenotes Homun from Merida
We will visit the Archaeological Zone of Mayapan where incredible buildings the Mayans were built and where you will discover the history of this amazing civilization. Mayapan is closed from November 10th for this reason now we visit Acanceh Archaeological Zone, if you book you will visit Acanceh instead of Mayapan (It is not known when Mayapan will reopen, it could even last all of December or until next year).
Then we will go to the Incredibles cenotes Homun to cool off and where you will marvel at the impressive structures that nature created (stalactites and stalagmites). You will be able to bathe in these cenotes and enjoy the views that it provides, in addition to taking photos for memories. When you arrive at each cenote, you will be able to see how wonderful nature is when visiting these unique places. In addition to this adventure, you can enjoy a dinner of traditional Mayan food.
Do not think twice about it anymore and live this amazing adventure with us.
Book Today on Viator From $105.00
Traveling Spoon Yucatecan Sopa de Lima Private Online Cooking Class
Enjoy a private and authentic online cooking class and learn to make Sofia's family recipe for sopa de lima, a spicy, flavorful Yucatecan chicken soup flavored with Yucatan limes and spicy habanero peppers.This is a perfect experience for anyone looking to connect with local culture over food. A fun and cultural virtual cooking experience with a Mexican native!
• Learn to make traditional sopa de lima and panuchos from scratch!
• Private, one-on-one online instruction with a Yucatan native
• Introduction to Mexico's culture and cuisine
• Scheduled mutually at your convenience (host lives in Merida, Mexico (GMT -5) )
• Recipes and ingredients list will be emailed in advance of class
• Customization available for dietary restrictions or preferences
• Travel from your own home and learn culinary traditions of Mexico!
• Your host can be flexible with time so if there is a different time-slot you prefer, please include it when making your reservation
Book Today on Viator From $40.00
Cooking Classes
Learn to prepare traditional Yucatecan dishes during cooking classes led by local chefs who share their culinary expertise.
Merida Van & Driver for a day
Travel around Merida area comfortably and conveniently, without having to deal with renting a car or seeking out taxis.
Private transportation for just you and your party. You can also book the option to travel to Cancun or the Riviera Maya from Merida at your own pace
Book Today on Viator From $325.00
Ria Lagartos, Coloradas & Cancunito Beach from Merida
Are you ready to live a magical experience? Venture with us to a day full of sightings of beautiful landscapes and different types of migratory birds.
We will visit a Merida Beach that is considered one of the best in this area, where you will have free time to enjoy the turquoise waters and a little sun.
Then we will visit Las Coloradas which is a lagoon painted pink due to the salt process that takes place in this place, you will learn about this process and different places of interest in this paradisiacal place.
In addition to this you can have a boat ride through Ría Lagartos where you can observe different migratory birds among the mangroves and different species of flora and fauna to take a lot off photos. And why not? You can even see a crocodile if you are attentive.
Book Today on Viator From $115.00
Private Tour Mayan Community Yaxunah
This tour is the best option for you to know in depth the local customs that have been passed from generation to generation by our ancestors.
You will have a great experience doing different activities.
Book Today on Viator From $352.49
Private Taco Experience in Mérida accompanied by a Mayan
It is the best and most economical taco tour. It is made and designed to have the best taco experience in Yucatecan cuisine.
We have selected the 5 best dishes in the 5 best places in the markets of Mérida.
Furthermore, as a guide and as a Mayan, I know first-hand the dishes and ingredients to make your experience on this tour special.
It is a tour of great quality and great flavor. You will have the best taco experience.
Book Today on Viator From $45.00
Walking Tours
Stroll through the colorful streets of Merida on walking tours that offer a closer look at the city's architecture, street art, and hidden gems.
Merida Street Food Walking Tour
This 3-hour Street Food Tour is for foodies who want to sample the authentic Street Food of the Yucatan. Visit Merida's main market, sample fruits, and walk along to tasting spots where you can try native dishes such as 'Cochinita Pibil' (pork cooked underground), 'Panuchos' (tortillas stuffed with refried black beans), Empanadas, and have Ceviche as lunch (This changes on Sunday and Holidays). End your tour with a sweet stop at a gelato shop specializing in exotic flavors.
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $65.00
Walking Tour Across the Historic Center in Merida
The best way to get to know the Historical Center of Merida is by walking by its streets and getting lost between squares, churches, and colonial architecture.
Discover the history and secrets, plus everything that this city has for you: art, traditions, and loads of cultural diversity. Come and have fun on this Walking Tour that we have made for you, a traveler who wants to know the city in a local way.
Book Today on Viator From $22.00
Private Walking Tour in City of Merida
It is one of the best ways to get to know the beautiful city of Mérida, accompanied by a local Mayan guide and journalist from the city.
Mérida is an authentic city with Mayan stone prints from the ancient city of Thó (FIVE)
Let's discover this city together, don't forget to dream and find yourself with this peace and tranquility of Merida. Remember that Mérida is classified as the safest city in the country and as the cultural capital of America
Book Today on Viator From $75.00
Self-Guided Audio Tour - Chichen Itza, The greatness of the Mayas
Visit Chichén Itza and be guided by Kukulkan, the feathered serpent god of the ancient Mayan civilization. This is a unique 3D sound experience you will not forget. The narrator will help you understand the origins and history of Popolvuh. You will begin this tour at the main castle of the Kukulkan, where you will discover the song of the Quetzal, which you can hear if you follow the instructions carefully and clap your hands. Your tour will continue as you admire the Temple of Venus and the Warrior Temple, the Tzompantli and the High Jaguar Temple. You will also learn about the great ball game in which the rulers of Xibalbá marvelled at the twins' skills. Immerse yourself in this sensory experience as ancient Mayan legends unfold and are revealed to you.
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $10.00