“Where’s Mérida?” you might ask, and more importantly, “Why should I consider visiting?” Mérida, Mexico, the captivating capital of the Yucatán State, is a destination that offers understated luxury and authentic Mexican experiences, often flying under the radar of mainstream tourist hotspots. This hidden gem boasts a more rustic charm, fewer touristy frills, and a budget-friendly appeal. Recently, I spent an immersive three days exploring the best of Mérida, Mexico, taking notes and soaking in the atmosphere, and it became clear that this vibrant city deserves to be on every traveler’s radar.
Was three days enough? Absolutely not, not even close.
My phone buzzed with a message: ‘Mérida is 🔥’. It was Amy, a close friend whose travel recommendations I always trust. Was she commenting on the weather or hinting at the incredible experiences awaiting me in Mérida? Just weeks prior, I wouldn’t have been able to pinpoint Mérida or the Yucatán on a map.
Yet, there I was, impulsively booking flights and researching online. This spontaneous decision was unusual for me, a self-confessed planner who thrives on meticulous preparation. I’m the type of person who arrives at the airport hours early and books restaurant reservations months in advance. Planning is usually my forte.
Until Mérida beckoned.
church
Why Choose Mérida, Mexico for Your Next Getaway?
Amy and her husband had decided to spend a month living in Mérida, Mexico, embracing the work-from-anywhere lifestyle. They saw Mérida as a prime location, the capital of the Yucatán State, rapidly gaining recognition as a desirable destination within Mexico.
Their enticing offer of a spare bedroom and a refreshing plunge pool sealed the deal for my visit. Amy assured me she had already uncovered the best of Mérida, Mexico, eliminating any need for extensive research. The plunge pool was the clincher.
night time in merida
Unveiling the Best of Mérida, Yucatán, Mexico
Despite my limited knowledge about the location, language, and the specifics of Mérida, an undeniable excitement grew. My daughter, Ella, seemed equally pleased, although deciphering her emotions can be a challenge. Ever the optimist, I anticipated an unforgettable trip.
Mérida, Here We Come!
My ‘Best of Mérida’ journey began with a curated shortlist, thanks to Amy’s local insights and meticulous planning. You’d be amazed at what you can experience in just three days with Amy as your guide. If I consider myself a travel planner, Amy is the undisputed Marie Kondo of travel itineraries. She had our Mérida adventure perfectly organized before I could even say muchas gracias.
Stepping off the plane, one thing was immediately clear: Amy was right, Mérida is hot – in every sense of the word.
buildings of merida
Settling into Mérida: Mi Casa Es Su Casa
A quick taxi ride brought us to our destination. The streets of Mérida are a captivating blend of contrasts. Dilapidated casas stood beside beautifully restored buildings, some adorned with fresh pastel paints, colonial lanterns, and gleaming wooden doors, revived to their former glory. This captivating juxtaposition of old and new is a defining characteristic of Mérida’s unique charm.
Time had weathered the buildings’ structures but not their spirit. Walking these streets, I could almost envision the conquistadors from centuries past. The city’s rich history is palpable at every turn, revealing a fresh palette of soft, rainbow-hued colors, glimpses into hidden courtyards, inviting taquerias, and lively plazas.
Blue door
The city’s layout, a grid of perfect right angles, makes navigation effortless, even for someone like me with a questionable sense of direction.
Their Airbnb, located on the edge of the historic old town, featured a seafoam green facade with crisp white trim and a welcoming cerulean blue door. A gentle breeze offered respite from the midday heat, and the sound of a woman practicing vocal scales drifted from an upper window, her melodic notes floating like released butterflies.
I soon realized that music is deeply ingrained in Mérida’s essence. Barely 18 minutes into my visit, and I knew I was already enamored. Seventy-two hours to explore – the clock was ticking.
perfumerie
Best Hotels in Mérida, Mexico: Boutique Stays
Despite Amy’s recommendations, my inherent planner instincts kicked in, and I couldn’t resist researching hotels. For a future visit with my husband, I wanted to have a curated list of ideal accommodations. A quick online search, combined with on-the-ground exploration, provided a promising shortlist of hotels for my next trip to Mérida, or perhaps for yours.
Coqui Coqui Residences
The five Yucatán-based Coqui Coqui Residences & Spa are the epitome of boutique chic, seamlessly blending old-world elegance with contemporary amenities. I imagined myself indulging in a stay at each of these dreamy locations.
Each residence functions as both a stylish hotel and a perfumery, infused with tropical sophistication. The Mérida location, a 1903 ivory townhouse on a quiet street, features only one room! I was instantly intrigued.
Despite being fully booked, the saleswoman, sensing my disappointment, mentioned the room boasted not one, but two freestanding bathtubs. Embodying Belle Epoque grandeur, it also includes a private rooftop pool, accessed via a staircase that could grace the pages of Architectural Digest.
stairway
I consoled myself with Coqui Coqui’s luxurious chocolates and sampled their captivating perfumes. Choosing a favorite among the Yucatan-inspired fragrances proved difficult. Should my new signature scent be earthy tobacco or reminiscent of Hawaiian Tropic circa 1985? Coconut won. This was, thankfully, the toughest decision of the day.
Coqui Coqui’s richly textured ochre walls and black and white marble floors are undeniably photogenic. Crystal chandeliers hung from high ceilings, while velvet poufs, curtains, and gilded mirrors exuded opulent charm. I lingered in this aromatic haven, absorbing every detail.
rosas y chocolate
Rosas y Xocolate
Rosas y Xocolate is a pair of strikingly pink French mansions transformed into a boutique hotel celebrated for its style, service, and award-winning restaurant.
Stepping inside was like entering a tranquil oasis, a welcome respite from the bustling Paseo de Montejo. The cool interior was a relief from the Mérida heat – did I mention it’s hot? I continued my leisurely exploration, though Ella, not a fan of meandering, was starting to show signs of impatience. Annoyed or hungry? I chose to ignore it.
The interior ambiance was dark and inviting, a contrast to the bright sunlight outside, like stepping into a warm chocolate cookie. Or perhaps I was also hungry. I noticed a wall of wine, modern art on display, and a sunny outdoor patio perfect for drinks. Rosas y Xocolate clearly understood the essentials.
Each of the 17 rooms is unique and features handmade chocolate soaps – a hotel amenity I’d be tempted to take, or rather, purchase. Splashes of the hotel’s signature rose shade were everywhere, from accent walls to throw pillows to actual flowers. Bravo, Rosas y Xocolate.
Check Rosas y Xocolate availability here
Enhance your Mérida experience with my comprehensive 10-page e-guide, revealing the best hotels, restaurants, and hidden gems—available for only $10! Download your guide here!
Merida Guide
rosas y chocolate
Hotel Cigno
Housed in a 19th-century mansion, this seven-room boutique hotel on the edge of town offers a delicate blend of classic elegance and modern touches. Its azul facade is as inviting as the region’s cenotes. Hotel Cigno provides excursions and dining experiences designed to make any visitor feel at home in Mérida. The rooms are reasonably priced, featuring a mix of old and new Mexican design, and some even include private plunge pools for escaping the heat.
Check Hotel Cigno availability here
perfumerie
Best Boutiques and Bakeries in Mérida, Mexico
Amy and John had already been in Mérida, Mexico, for three weeks when Ella and I arrived. This gave them ample time to pinpoint the best shops and boutiques to visit during our short stay.
croaiisants
The following day began with a leisurely breakfast at home. Amy presented a spread of delectable pastries from Soco, a local artisanal bakery, including flaky croissants, almond-topped delights, and knotted babkas. Soco’s exquisite pastries rivaled those from the finest boulangeries in Paris.
Its unassuming, hole-in-the-wall exterior belied the doughy treasures within. I visited three times in as many days, convincing myself that Mexican calories, or rather, French-inspired, Mexican-made calories, simply didn’t count.
interior
PC: Ella Edwards
Caracol Púrapura, Mérida
Mexican folk art, handcrafted jewelry, and ceramics are just some of the treasures waiting to be discovered at Caracol Púrapura, located at the intersection of Calles 60 and 53. More akin to a museum than a series of boutiques, Caracol Púrapura features larger-than-life sculptures within its spacious interior.
Oaxacan black clay vessels and Huichol beaded bracelets, crafted by Wixárica artisans, are displayed alongside paintings, handbags, and intricately designed pottery. These handcrafted items not only preserve Mexican traditions but also support local artists.
Taller Maya
Taller Maya, Mérida
After further exploration, I declared Taller Maya my favorite boutique. Taller Maya would be equally at home on Spring Street in Soho or in Mérida. The clean, minimalist, and brightly lit space featured high ceilings and a breezy atmosphere. I wandered through the store multiple times, discovering something new and beautiful with each pass.
Solid marble pedestal bowls, contemporary wooden furniture, elegant lamps, and hand-woven hammocks are just a glimpse of the curated items at Taller Maya. I coveted everything, even the handwoven tortilla warmers. The neutral palette and welcoming ambiance were reminiscent of a Tribeca loft. Had they offered, I would have moved in immediately.
church
Best Sights to See in Mérida, Mexico
Mérida feels authentic. Perhaps this is its greatest luxury. In a country where many destinations are overly focused on tourism to the point of losing authenticity, Mérida effortlessly maintains its character. Oh, and it’s remarkably affordable, at least for now.
Planning your first trip to Mérida? Click here for a fun self-guided walking tour and discover the city’s highlights!
Plaza Grande, Mérida
Our city exploration began at the central square, Plaza Grande. Its vibrant energy mirrors the colorful buildings and lush green spaces. It’s also home to the impressive Mérida Cathedral.
Constructed from Mayan ruins, the Mérida Cathedral, also known as San Ildefonso Cathedral, stands on the east side of Plaza Grande. This imposing 16th-century structure provides a historic backdrop to the lively promenades, street vendors, and surrounding historical buildings.
merida sign
However, for me, the multicolored city sign in Plaza Grande was the ultimate tourist attraction. It’s undeniably the best tourist photo opportunity in Mérida. Even Ella enjoyed it.
‘Welcome to Mérida!’, it proclaimed in rainbow hues, ‘We’re so glad you’re here!’. As I paused to take a photo, a real rainbow appeared behind it. No exaggeration – photographic evidence above.
Paseo Montejo, Mérida
Every Sunday, Paseo Montejo, Mérida’s wide, tree-lined avenue, becomes pedestrian and cyclist-only. Locals and tourists alike stroll, listen to music, dance, walk their dogs, and enjoy brunch on the verandas. Inspired by the Champs-Élysées and lined with grand Beaux-Arts mansions, it’s a perfect way to experience the city’s energy while burning off those babka calories.
food
Best of Mérida, Mexico: Culinary Scene
Yucatán cuisine is a delightful fusion of local Mayan, Caribbean, Spanish, North African, and Middle Eastern influences. It’s no surprise that food is central to Mérida’s culture.
To say we ate and drank our way through the city is an understatement. Ella summed it up perfectly: ‘We didn’t just have pre-dinner drinks; we had drinks at four different places, and then tacos, before dinner.’ Amy and John truly know how to live. My kind of people.
Panuchos Yucatecan quickly became my favorite Mexican dish, despite my prior ignorance of it. Panuchos are made of two lightly fried corn tortillas with a thin layer of refried black beans in between, topped with chicken, pickled onion, and sliced avocado. Indescribably delicious.
I vowed to only eat them in Mexico, fearing they couldn’t be replicated elsewhere. Pen in hand, I added to my list: ‘Best of Mérida: panuchos.’
Craving a culinary adventure? Explore Mérida’s flavors with a guided food tour! Click here to learn more.
El Marlín Azul, Mérida
Starting as a humble food truck in Mérida’s industrial area, El Marlin Azul is now considered one of the city’s best dining spots. I can confidently vouch for the shrimp ceviche. Amy and John had brought some back the morning we arrived – our first taste of Yucatán cuisine. Another vow, another list entry: ‘Best of Mérida: ceviche at El Marlín Azul’.
michaela
Restaurant Micaela, Mérida
Restaurant Micaela’s website describes its food as a tribute to Nana’s cooking, yet the atmosphere is far from grandmotherly. Micaela’s is a hidden gem in the old town, featuring vibrant mural-painted walls, terra cotta tiles, and soft amber lighting. The lively open kitchen adds to the energetic vibe. Micaela’s is the kind of place where you can easily eat, drink, and linger, especially when the food is exceptional.
We shared various appetizers, including Crudo de atún (fresh tuna) and Rellenos de queso Oaxaca, followed by steak, short ribs, and other meat-centric entrees. Micaela’s Nana states that cooking is her love language. Message received, Nana – loud and clear.
church with rainbow
Best Cocktails and Tacos in Mérida, Mexico
Terraza Picheta is rumored to have the only terrace overlooking Mérida’s old city. Arriving at the expansive patio just before sunset, it was evident they had indeed won the location lottery.
The panoramic views are dominated by the cathedral to the east. Our rainbow remained a constant photo subject until I shifted my focus to the setting sun.
After a round of drinks and appetizers, the sun had set. Dinner time – or so I thought.
Not yet. First, we stopped for another cocktail and a pre-dinner taco at El Lucero, where I fell in love with the panucho. Lanterns hung at varying heights from a massive vaulted and thatched roof. Palm trees lined the stone walls. Marc Anthony’s soulful voice filled the air.
Outdoor games at Patio Petanca in Mérida, Mexico, create a fun and relaxed atmosphere for enjoying drinks and tacos.
Best Cocktails, Tacos, and Games in Mérida, Mexico: Patio Petanca
Patio Petanca is the polar opposite of Terraza Picheta – low-key and hidden compared to Picheta’s upscale and open setting. Yet, it still made the ‘best of’ list. Petanca’s graffiti-covered metal door opens into a game enthusiast’s paradise – an outdoor space with two boules courts and numerous games to keep you entertained during happy hour.
In Mérida, boules is known as petanque, and the sandy game area occupies most of Patio Petanca’s modest space. Amy and John ordered mezcal. I opted for a beer. No, Mom, no one has hacked my blog, I mean, website. I do drink beer. But only in Mexico.
A competitive game of Mexican Jenga commenced, ending with Ella toppling the tower. Before any complaints could arise, a sudden downpour sent us scrambling for cover under the thatched bar. And there, we discovered, truly, the world’s best taco.
If you doubt me, Amy, John, and Ella concur. The world’s best taco is here. Petanca had brought in a guest chef from nearby Pico de Gallo, much like Miami’s LIV might feature DJ Steve Aoki. Well, not exactly the same.
We craved more tacos but were dangerously late for dinner, which was almost irrelevant as we were no longer hungry. I opened my notebook, ‘Best of Mérida: tacos at Patio Petanca with guest chef from Pico de Gallo’. My list grew longer by the minuto.
Crystal-clear waters of a cenote near Mérida, Mexico, offering a refreshing and otherworldly swimming experience.
Day Tripping from Mérida, Mexico: Exploring Cenotes
You don’t need to be an adrenaline junkie, expert swimmer, or even a water enthusiast to appreciate the cenotes of the Yucatán. Trust me. Cenotes are natural sinkholes formed by collapsed limestone bedrock, creating underground pools. The Yucatán Peninsula boasts over 7,000 cenotes, some believed to be formed by asteroid impacts.
Swimming (or, in my case, wading) in freshwater cenotes is an ethereal experience. Ancient Mayans believed cenotes were sacred gateways to the underworld. For me, they are a refreshing, magical escape from the Mexican sun. Undeniably stunning natural wonders, they are worth a day trip from Mérida.
cenotes
Santa Barbara Cenotes, Mérida
We visited the Santa Barbara cenotes on a peaceful Monday morning, leaving at 9 am to avoid crowds. Our driver knew exactly where to go, reassuring since the pamphlet’s directions were a bit vague: ‘Located entrance of Homún. Take the first turning to the right and following road next to police station’. (sic) Hmmm.
The affordable entrance fee included bikes and life jackets. Despite my limited swimming skills, I declined the life jacket, only to be reprimanded three times, once at each cenote. Cascabel, Chacsikín, and Xooch’ are within a mile of each other, each more breathtaking than the last.
Beat the lines! Get your tickets now for Mérida’s famous cenotes!
At Cascabel, we descended a set of wooden steps into a hidden water cave. Water droplets echoed around us, and strategic underwater lighting enhanced the surreal atmosphere. There were a few other visitors, but not many. Amy and Ella swam the cave loop while I opted to wade. We hopped back on our bikes to the next cenotes.
The entrance to Xooch’ cenote is through a moss-covered arch at the bottom of a steep stone stairway, dramatically opening into a freshwater pool illuminated by a wide-open, bright blue sky.
cenotes
Trees perched precariously on the crater’s edge, their long roots dangling towards the water. It felt like Jurassic Park circa 1993, and I half-expected a pterodactyl to swoop overhead. Instead, we saw equally prehistoric-looking iguanas.
We floated and absorbed the sounds of nature. For a blissful fifteen minutes, we had Xooch’ completely to ourselves. Well, almost. One particularly grumpy iguana eyed me from his cave wall perch. Gringos, vámanos! he seemed to be thinking in his tiny iguana brain.
ruins
Mayapan Ruins, Mérida
Chichen Itza Ruins are among Mexico’s most renowned Mayan sites, and deservedly so. However, lesser-known sites offer equal appeal for those seeking a more secluded experience. Mayapan is one such place, and with a mere $2.40 entrance fee, it’s an unmissable visit. Adventurous visitors are welcome to climb the ancient ruins at their own risk, of course.
Mayapan is located 25 miles from Mérida, in a pueblo called Tecoh. It’s believed to be the last Mayan city built and inhabited. The central pyramid, named the Castle of Kukulcan, was easily climbed at first, pride swelling with my speed and fearlessness.
Reaching the top, pride quickly turned to panic, and my knees buckled. My husband’s voice echoed in my mind, ‘Going up is optional. Coming down is mandatory.’ I hate when he’s right. The descent was slow, ungraceful, and far from fearless. Humbled and sweaty, we returned to Mérida.
Interactive Mérida, Yucatán map with my hot spots
Map courtesy of Wanderlog, an itinerary planner on iOS and Android
mayan ruins
Mérida is 🔥
The understated luxuries of the Yucatán and Mérida are found in unexpected places – behind weathered facades, on impromptu stages, and within hidden underground pools. At first glance, life here appears simple. After three days compiling my ‘Best of Mérida’ list, I realized the depth of Yucatán history, as profound as the cenotes themselves.
To further ignite your interest, consider this: three days in Mérida, Mexico, will cost less than one night at a luxury hotel in Punta Mita. Is budget luxury a real concept? It depends on your definition of luxury. Personally, I appreciate both ends of the spectrum in my travels.
‘Why visit Mérida?’ Because it’s hot. Hot in temperature, certainly, but even hotter as a destination that’s about to be discovered by the masses. Hopefully, this glimpse into one of Mexico’s most subtly beautiful and culturally rich cities sparks some Marie Kondo-esque joy.
If not, there’s always Cancun.
Unlock the best of Mérida with my exclusive 10-page e-guide, featuring top hotels, restaurants, and hidden gems—yours for just $10! Download your guide now!
Merida Guide
First time visitor to Mérida? Click here for a captivating self-guided walking tour!
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by: Jamie Edwards leave a comment Feast in North America, Mexico
