What to see in Mérida Mexico in 2 days
Last updated on February 10th, 2026.
If you've always wanted to see the east coast of Mexico, be sure to add the Yucatán to your list.
Discovering Mérida, its capital city, in 2 days is possible as long as you plan accordingly.
This Mérida itinerary will outline some of the best things of what to see in Mérida Mexico in 2 days. It's an ideal, and simple, guide if you've only a short time to spend in the Mexican city.
How to get to Mérida from Playa Del Carmen
If traveling to Mérida from Playa Del Carmen, you can take the ADO bus, or camion. The buses have excellent air conditioning on board to provide comfort from the scorching Mexican temperatures.
I'd spoken to many locals who told me that temperatures would be higher in the Yucatán capital — and they were right. While I wasn't looking forward to overheating, I was keen to learn more about the region's cultural heritage.
As a brief side note, I'd recommend learning some Spanish before visiting the Yucatán, and Mexico in general. Some locals can speak basic English but many others only spoke to me in Spanish.
First impressions
After a 4.5 hour bus ride, most of which I spent reading interesting facts about Mexico, I arrived in Mérida.
It's a far cry from the clinically clean and polished tourist towns of Playa Del Carmen and Cancun, and I was instantly enamored.
The streets are dusty and noticeably narrower and filled with crowds of people and market stalls. Colorful Spanish-style architecture awaits around every corner, drawing your attention with every detail.
Visiting Merida as a solo female traveler
As a solo female traveler, I couldn't wait to discover more. Mérida felt like I was seeing a ‘real’ part of Mexico and I didn't once feel unsafe.
If you're a fellow female traveler, and nervous about going solo, consider joining a tour like this one. You get to see some of the best sights while traveling within the safety net as part of a group.
When you're ready to start exploring, be sure to first stop by the local tourist office in town. They have a free magazine for visitors called Yucatán Today.
Dress in loose clothing, bring a bottle of water and your abanico, and prepare to discover historic Mérida for yourself.
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What to see in Mérida Mexico in 2 days
Budget conscious travelers will be happy to know that there are many free things to do in Mérida Mexico.
Probably the most notable architectural feature of the town are the old Spanish stone gates. They were put in place to separate the Spanish colonialists from the Mayan people.
Walk through the Spanish stone gates
The landmarks provide a clue to the city’s rich historical background, as well as a reference point if you ever get lost. 'Always follow the gates and you’ll get back to Calle 44', Isabella wisely advised me.
History of the gates
The gates mark the entrance to the city's main square, Plaza Grande. Made of stone, they’re a testament to the enduring legacy of the Spanish colonial era.
The Arco de Dragones is the main gate in Merida, upon which is the crest of the Spanish royal family. It's flanked by two smaller gates, the Arco de la Enseñanza and the Arco del Puente.
The gates served various purposes during its time, from welcoming dignitaries to serving as a prison. Today, they stand as a symbol of Merida's rich cultural heritage and its colonial history.
Follow the old cobbled streets to Plaza Grande, and take in the view of the colorful Spanish-style buildings.
Among the farmacias and mini supermercados are grand music schools, hotels and eye-catching structural buildings.
See The Blue House in Mérida Mexico
The remarkable ‘Blue House’ (Casa Azul) draws you in like a magnet with its pop of blue color. A restored 19th-century mansion, today it runs as the fabulous 5-star boutique hotel, Casa Azul Hotel Monumento Historico.
Inside the blue hotel
The hotel has 8 suites in total, with each room uniquely designed to showcase traditional Mexican elements. Something unique about each suite are its names and the inspiration behind it.
Take the Suite San Ildefonso. The largest of the rooms, the design was inspired by the city's grand cathedral that was dedicated to its patron saint.
Facilities and services include a rooftop terrace with a swimming pool and lounge area, a library and a restaurant.
Take a break in plaza grande
As you continue to walk to Plaza Grande, you'll pass by some well-maintained mini plazas. Resembling mini parks, they're perfect for taking shade from the sweltering Mexican heat.
A scene brimming with local life, men wait to have their shoes shined, while Mayan women sell homemade artesanias.
Another block ahead and you finally arrive at the central part of the city, Plaza Grande.
It's a larger version of the mini plazas, where many locals enjoy spending the day in the park. You can really feel the love in this plaza, particularly with the charming white stone conjoined ‘Lovers Seats’.
Step inside the Palacio de Gobierno
The splendid Palacio De Gobierno (Government Palace) and the grand Mérida Cathedral sit across from Plaza Grande.
Constructed in the late 19th century, the Palacio de Gobierno is a perfect example of neoclassical architecture.
The murals inside Palacio de Gobierno
One of the most striking features are its beautiful murals, which were painted by Yucatecan artist Fernando Castro Pacheco.
The murals cover the walls of the palace's main staircase and lobby, depicting scenes from Yucatecan history and mythology. They tell the stories of the arrival of the Spanish conquistadors, the Caste War of Yucatan, and the Mayan creation myth.
These murals are considered to be some of the most important works of contemporary Mexican art.
Today, the Palacio de Gobierno serves as the headquarters of the executive branch of the Yucatan state government. With no entrance fee it's one of the best free things to do in Mérida.
Map of Mérida, Mexico
Visit Mérida Cathedral
Standing proudly in the heart of the city, Mérida Cathedral beckons you inside its majestic four walls.
The cathedral was built on the site of a former Mayan temple, where construction began in 1562.
One of the oldest cathedrals in the Americas, Mérida Cathedral features a mixture of Baroque, Renaissance, and Gothic architectural styles.
Inside is a collection of historic artwork and religious artifacts. They include a 16th-century crucifix and an organ dating to the 18th century.
Probably the most notable feature is the bell tower, which stands at over 50 meters (164ft) tall.
The tallest in Yucatan and one of the tallest in Mexico, visitors can climb to the top to enjoy panoramic views.
Walk along Paseo Montejo
Paseo Montejo is a few blocks walk or a short taxi ride from Plaza Grande.
The avenue is named after Francisco de Montejo, the Spanish conquistador who founded Mérida in 1542.
Paseo Montejo was originally built in the late 19th and early 20th century during the city's economic boom. Its wide streets were designed to emulate the grand boulevards of Paris.
What to see in Paseo Montejo
Lined with stately mansions, many were built during the city's heyday. Architectural styles include French neoclassical, Art Deco, and Art Nouveau.
Today, many of these mansions now run as museums, galleries, restaurants, and hotels.
Alongside the mansions, Paseo Montejo is also home to several notable landmarks. Two worth mentioning are the Monumento a la Bandera and the Palacio Canton.
The former's a monument dedicated to the Mexican flag, while the latter is a French-style mansion turned museum.
Honestly, I wasn't that impressed by Paseo Montejo. The polished streets and modern restaurants and bars reminded me of the ambience — and price tags — I'd left behind in Playa Del Carmen.
Nonetheless, the colonial style buildings lining the paseo are certainly worth seeing.
Where to stay in Mérida Mexico
I chose to stay at an Airbnb in Mérida over a hotel simply because I wanted to have a local experience. My host in Mérida was a charming and free-spirited American lady called Isabella.
Her house in the Centro district of Mérida is exactly what you'd picture a Mexican home to be.
Wide open spaces bursting with color, locally-made crafts everywhere, and ceiling fans in every room. With her gorgeous dog Ruby wandering comfortably through the house, I felt immediately at home.
Best hotels in Mérida
If, however, a hotel in Mérida is more your cup of tea, consider checking into the fabulous Coqui Coqui Merida.
This fabulous colonial townhouse is steps away from Mérida Cathedral, providing a super elegant, and comfortable, stay in the city.
Coqui Coqui Spa
Inside is a superb spa, with treatments like massages and facials using oils sourced from local ingredients.
Therapists draw on ancient and traditional methods and use a holistic approach when treating guests. The spa menu does change, so be sure to check what's available before booking.
What to eat in Mérida — Yucatán cuisine
Yucatán cuisine is known for its unique blend of Mayan, Spanish, and Caribbean influences.
While Mexican food is renowned for its picante food, Yucatán cuisine raises the chili scale on a whole other level.
A complete spice wimp, I was persuaded by restaurant staff to try some salsa verde with my tortilla. Just seconds after it hit my tongue, my mouth began to burn and my nose started to run.
Everyone had a few giggles at my expense and I only managed one feeble mouthful. As comical as the scene was, I was determined to try other Yucatán dishes on my next return.
What to eat in the Yucatán
If you're interested to know what to eat in the Yucatán, here are some local dishes to your list.
- Cochinita Pibil: slow-cooked pork marinated in orange juice, achiote paste and other spices.
- Panuchos: small, crispy tortillas filled with refried black beans and topped with shredded chicken or turkey, avocado, and pickled onions.
- Salbutes: soft tortilla topped with shredded chicken, turkey, or pork, avocado and pickled onions.
- Papadzules: corn tortillas filled with hard-boiled eggs and covered in a pumpkin seed sauce.
- Sopa de Lima: a lime-based soup made with shredded chicken and crispy tortilla strips.
- Relleno Negro: turkey stew made with black chilies and other spices.
- Poc Chuc: grilled marinated pork served with onions and sour orange juice.
- Queso Relleno: a type of cheese stuffed with a ground meat mixture and baked in a tomato sauce.
- Marquesitas: a sweet street food consisting of a thin, crispy crepe filled with grated cheese and a variety of sweet or savory toppings. These can include Nutella, condensed milk, or ham.
- Xnipec: a spicy salsa made with habanero peppers, tomato, onion, and sour orange juice.
Cheap eats
Later for lunch, I went to a local restaurant and ate Yucatán style pork ribs followed by a bitingly cool frozen margarita.
Portions are large and cheap in Mérida — something that also extends to the alcohol. At the time of travel, it cost approximately £1.60 ($35 (MXN); $2.70 (USD) for a glass of wine.
It's a great difference to the price you pay in tourist towns, so make the most of it and enjoy.
Things to do in Mérida at night
Nightlife in Mérida is dominated by one thing and one thing only: salsa music. Whether it’s catching live salsa music in one of the plazas or going into a bar/club, music is king.
I went to one bar where a duo act performed popular salsa tunes on a small stage.
Even me, with my two left feet, got up to partake in the local festivities. I left the bar sweaty, slightly merry, but unbelievably happy whistling salsa tunes all the way home.
Is Mérida safe?
One question I got asked a lot was, is Mérida safe? And as a solo female traveler, my answer is a big resounding yes.
That night, I walked home around 1am from the bar, alone through the quiet cobbled streets. I didn't feel any sense of danger and stayed on the main and well-lit streets.
Naturally, other travelers may have a different experience to mine but I can only write from my time here.
What souvenirs should you buy?
If you want to buy locally produced handcrafts or souvenirs in Mérida, I recommend going to a Mayan cooperative. It's far more ethical than the many tourist shops lining the streets.
Moreover, all the products they sell are made by the Mayan people in the villages, and all profits go directly to them.
It's also worth adding that there's no bartering in the cooperatives. The prices are fixed and very reasonable so don’t even attempt to try.
Is Mérida Mexico worth visiting?
My visit to Mérida was undeniably the highlight of my Mexican trip. I would return in a heartbeat to Mérida and the Yucatan and I can say that both are worth visiting.
The people, atmosphere and the culture left me with a yearning to discover more about the region and its surrounding estados.
The next time I return, I plan to do more day trips from Mérida. There are 2 archeological sites in particular, Uxmal and Kabah, plus the historic town of Campeche that I'd like to see.
While traveling around Quintana Roo was an enjoyable experience, the Yucatán gave me something more valuable.
It gave me the chance to get out of my comfort zone and experience somewhere local, authentic and truly Mexican.
What do you think about this post on what to see in Mérida Mexico in 2 days? Does it look like somewhere you'd like to visit in Mexico? Let me know in the comments below.
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We will be in Cancun this winter for 3 months. I had been wondering we hether we should visit the capital of the Yucatan, Merida. Your description reminds me of Mazatlan...Cathedral, plazas, cobbled streets. Thanks for the tip about how spicy food is there.
You're welcome! I really loved Merida and even managed the spicy food 😀
Merida looks beautiful and I think it attracts tourists more and more. I like the Spanish architecture in town, and that Blue House is so eye-catching. It's a surprise to learn that the city is safe for a solo female traveler, even walking alone after midnight.
It's really safe and I think it's something many people misunderstand about Mexico 🙂
Are there any videos of your salsa night? If your moves are as great as your photography and blogging, they must have been a marvel to watch!
Haha thankfully noooo! I'll stick to what I know and enjoy best 😀
Merida, Mexico is gorgeous. I love all the bright colors of the building and the energy in the city
I completely agree! I'd love to go back
I have only ever been to tjuana so would love to head back to mexico and explore some more
You must! It's a wonderful country in general
Looks like you had such a fun trip even though it was a short one! What was your favorite part about the two-day trip?
Definitely just walking around the city, and engaging with the locals. They're so friendly!
I've never been to Mexico but I'd love to visit. The colors in the photos are so beautiful!
Thank you! You must visit, it's amazing 🙂
Mexico has been on my bucket list of places to travel for a while now and this place looks absolutely beautiful.
You really have to visit; it's probably my favourite city!
What a stunning place to visit! Mexico is uncharted territory for me, but I'd love to visit one day. Gorgeous photos!
Thank you so much! It's an easy city to photograph 🙂 I hope you visit one day
I've never been to Mexico but it's on my list! My husband speaks a little Spanish so hopefully we'll be ok! Loved your photos!
It definitely will help! I hope you visit, it's such a colourful city!
I love the colorful building in this city and the Airbnb look so cosy to stay. It certainly give me a homestay experience in a Mexican home.
Yes, it's that kind of home! And Isabella was an excellent host; I hope she's still there 🙂
Mexico is a dream to me. I so hope to visit the country and see as much as can! It is so exciting!
It's wonderful there, and I loved every second. I know you will too!
Lisa, you write one of my favourite blogs! I always feel so inspired after reading it. Mexico is definitely on my travel list. Beauitful photos!
Aw thank you so much! You've no idea how much that means for me to read that 🙂 You have to visit Merida, and Mexico in general, it's such a wonderful country
You did a great job of showing off the area and the architecture. It def makes me want to go and see it for myself.
Aw thank you! I appreciate the feedback, it's probably my favourite city
We're planning a trip to Merida in March 2019 and just saw your post. Thank you for the great pictures and information. You mentioned taking a camion. Did you ride a bus? From Cancun? Can you tell me any other info about your trip and route to Merida?
Thank you
Hi Peter, thanks for dropping by. I took a bus from Playa del Carmen, and it took around 4.5 hours, but totally worth it. I'm not sure the duration by bus from Cancun. Definitely take the national bus company, BDO, as it's air conditioned, safe and reliable.
Merida is such a beautiful city! I also loved my experience there two years ago. I remember that blue house very fondly. And the food is so good! I could go back any time.
Yes! I loved Merida, and really would like to return to Yucatan and discover more about the region 🙂
I haven't heard of Merida but it seems the more I read about Mexico, the larger my bucket list grows! I love the colourful streets of this town and particularly the blue house! I love spicy Mexican food so I know that's not going to be an issue. I will, however, struggle a bit with the language since I really do not know any Spanish! Nevertheless, that has never stopped me from visiting a place 😉
And it shouldn't Medha! Merida is one of my favourite places in the world, simply because it's so authentic. Get there one day, you won't be disappointed.
Mérida looks so interesting! Especially the Blue House I liked a lot. Havn't thought of going there one day, but maybe I should reconsider my thoughts 🙂 Thank you!
You're welcome! I loved my time here, and would return in a flash!
I’ve always wanted to visit Mexico! The culture and food there have me mesmerized. I want to experience authentic Mexican food
It's very spicy! I had an amazing time there, and can't wait to return.
Mexico is definitely a vibrant country with rich history and heritage. I'd love to visit it soon! 🙂
Hope I get a host as friendly and helpful as Isabella!
Me too! Isabella was a great host, and with a lovely house too.
All the pictures are so beautiful!
Thanks!
Oh gosh, all of the colours! And the juxtaposition of the old and the new is just breath taking. Would you say Merida is a romantic place?
Yes, yes and yes! It's authentic, yet with many places for travellers to visit. The lovers' chairs are adorable too
I loved Merida! Your pictures make me miss those gorgeous pastel colors. Did you make it to Uxmal? One of my favorite day trips from Merida.
I didn't, but I really want to return one day and explore more of the state, it's my favourite place!
Mexico looks like such an awesome place to visit, i would love to visit the gorgeous beaches and amazing ruins. Your post highlights that there is so much more to Mexico than my initial impression though - thank you! I am going to start planning my trip!
Wonderful, you'll have such a good time I'm sure. Be sure to take plenty of photos 😀
Wow, the Blue House did instantly draw my attention and the details on the facade are just stunning. The vibrant streets of Merida would be the sole reason for my visit to this town. I have heard about Yucatan in the past but never thought it is so gorgeous, it's like being taken back in time, so much character and life here.
You should see it in person, it's even more beautiful!
Merida is so colorful and beautiful city of Mexico. Blue house is so photogenic and looks like a house in Fairyland. I loved your Air BnB homestay as the Mexican house is lovely and full of warmth from inside. I would really love to walk along the cobbled streets too. I really liked Mexico and visit one day.
It's such a colourful and historic city, you won't be disappointed!
The name "Merida" itself is so beautiful, and very fitting for a picturesque city! I love the colors and the architecture, especially the Blue House! That definitely caught my eye. The photos in this post really blew me away. If I was in your shoes, I also wouldn't be able to stop taking photos. Simply stunning! And the food sounds divine too! Spicy food is the best!
I couldn't stop taking photos, and honestly had another 5 more good ones to post! Lucky you can take the spice, I'm a complete wimp!
I read somewhere that Merida is one of the safest cities in Mexico, I have some friends there too so should have visited by now! I've never actually seen pictures of Merida so didn't know how colourful it was, I would take so many Instagram worthy pictures of the buildings down there. I didn't know Salsa was the choice of music down there!
I can't believe you haven't been to Merida, it seems you've been everywhere else! It's wonderful, colourful and yes, you better get used o some salsa music!
What an incredible and insightful travel experience. I love the look of Mexico and Merida looks stunning! I love the architecture and the colours of Mexico - especially the Blue House. That sure is eye-catching. Good to know you could have some parts feeling comfortable while still getting the chance to get outside of your comfort zone for a more authentic experience too. How wonderful!
Thanks Juliette! I love Merida, and the recent news about the earthquake in Yucatan really makes me sad. It's so beautiful, make sure you visit!
Airbnb provides a better experience in terms of connecting with the local ways of living. I would love to experience the city both by day and night, where the blue house and Plaza Grande would be my top picks. Cheers!!
You're welcome! Yes Airbnb gives that more localised experience 🙂
Merida looks beautiful! I've spent quite a bit of time on the Yucatan, but just passed through Merida briefly--I didn't really get a chance to see much. I'd love to go back and photograph some of those gorgeous buildings one day!
You must, it's probably one of my favourite cities ever!
This looks like a beautiful place to visit. I love the historic buildings! I also love all the colorful homes; it looks so colorful everywhere. I haven't been to Mexico yet, but I hope I can someday soon!
You really need to go, you won't be disappointed, it's wonderful!
I have so much love for Mexico. I need to go back soon and explore more. Merida looks amazing. That blue house is a photographers dream! Great advice about the ethical souveniers too. I always try to do this.
That's great to hear Claire, I think it's so important to not get carried away with the souvenirs and think outside the commercial value. Nice to meet someone else who loves Mexico as much as me!
Your post took me right back there when i was in Mexico though o omly went for a day unfortunately. i would have loved to spent more time there like you have, as you have some really great tips on things to see and do. Especially would of loced to see and hear the salsa music ar night that would of been really cool.
Salsa is everywhere, so if you're not a fan, you'll have a problem! Merida is beautiful, you need to go back!
The architecture is so lovely; such a postcard-perfect vibe to Merida! I always love the colourful pastel houses. And the food sounds great, I love spicy! Who can argue with £1.60 for a glass of wine?!
My thoughts exactly! It's local, colourful and a real taste of Mexico 😀
Merida looks like a spot to explore. I love the vibrant colours of the building there and your hosts house looks cool. Those prices are amazing, and it seems like a great place to relax and experience another side of Mexico indeed.
Merida is one of my must-see places on this planet, that's how special it is to me, and even better in person too 🙂
We visited the Yucatan, which was so beautiful, but never got to Merida. I'd love to go back and visit. Your photos really show the culture and character of this city.
Thanks Lois, I took so many, it was hard to choose which ones to post. I'd actually love to return to Yucatan and spend more time there.
Mexico is one of my favorite countries. I just love the food, people and culture. I haven't been to Merida yet but it looks like an amazing place to explore! I love their colorful buildings!
It's so special and really a place that holds a special place in my heart. Go and see for yourself!
Wow I can't even find the words to describe how beautiful Merida is. I have a soft spot for colonial architecture. I think it adds so much character and charm to a city, just like Merida. I love cultural travel and this city seems to tick all the right boxes!
It's really beautiful, rustic and local too, you'll love it 🙂
I have not been to Mexico but it's very high on my list. Closest I had been was to visit New Mexico. And I completely LOVED it. It's so great to see that your Airbnb host Isabella was so good to you in Mérida. It's always the people that make your trip more beautiful and memorable.
Absolutely, and Mexico is a country very close to my heart! Isabella is a wonderful person, and I'm lucky I had the chance to stay at her home!