Things to do in Merida (and why you need to stay in the best house rental there)

Merida is the capital and largest city of the Mexican state of Yucatan. While heavily influenced by the Mayan culture, Merida is also a cultural melting pot of Spanish, French, British and Dutch influences. Merida is a vibrant cultural center, boasting multiple museums, art galleries, restaurants and colonial architecture that are a reminder of the city’s history.

Narrow streets in Merida lead to large, open plazas where there is always a party going on. Music and dancing are the fabric of day-to-day life here. Read on to find things you must do while in Merida and then find out where the best place to stay is!

Tour the Plaza Grande

If you want to learn about the history of Merida, start with the Plaza Grande. At 9:30, Monday through Saturday, you can take a free walking tour. It is a good way to get your bearings and learn your way around town. Along with some history, you will learn about the city itself and the attractions nearby. You will have a chance to go inside historic buildings that surround the plaza. The tour can take 90 minutes to 2 hours. The Plaza Grande is a popular gathering spot for both tourists and locals. There are food vendors and plenty of restaurants around the plaza. It’s an amazing view to visit.

The flavors of Merida

Merida has a huge Mayan heritage but is also has a European culture that makes up this amazing city. World-class restaurants have put their mark on traditional Mexican cuisine while bustling markets host local fruits, vegetables, and spices. But Merida’s flavor isn’t just about food. Tree-lined boulevards have a European feel while grand plazas are rich in Mexican culture. Buildings are designed in Spanish Colonial and French Neoclassical architectural styles. A visit to Merida is pleasing to all of your senses.

Gran Museo del Mundo Maya de Merida

The Museum of the Mayan World opened in 2012, celebrates Mayan culture with a collection of over 1100 well-preserved artifacts. It is a great place to visit in Merida to learn about the history and culture of the Mayan people. All of the artifacts are from archaeological sites in Quintana Roo. The building itself is a work of art. It was designed in the form of a sacred tree (Ceiba) believe to connect the living with the underworld and the heavens above.

Cathedral of San Ildefonso

Built in 1598 on the site of a Mayan Temple, this cathedral has a renaissance style façade. The main door (Door of Forgiveness) is flanked by the sculptures of Saint Peter and Saint Paul. The sides are adorned by four columns, which symbolize the four apostles, charged with protecting and promoting the religion. In 1915, during the Mexican revolution, the inside of the cathedral was destroyed. Before this, it was more decorated. Behind the altar stands a massive crucifix featuring the Cristo de la Unidad (Christ of Unity), as a symbol of reconciliation between the Spanish and Mayan Heritage.

The best way to stay in Merida is in a bed and breakfast. The best house for this in Merida is La Vida Magica.

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