The Merida Edition

Just as pretty as the flame-haired Disney heroine, this picturesque Mexican paradise provides a serene respite away from the hustle and bustle.

Where is the City?

The capital city of the autonomous community of Extremadura, western central Spain, Merida is situated in the north of the province of Badajoz.

What is the city known for?

A far cry from the touristy beaches of raucous Cancun, Merida is a quiet colonial paradise. The serenity of the town and the beauty of its streets establish it as a place of elegance, sophistication, and a paradoxical contrast against its Mayan ruins and colonial architecture. Mexican with a strong Mayan influence, Merida is both cosmopolitan and quaint. Twice named the American Capital of Culture, the Yucatan capital is abundant with riches, from its gastronomic delights to rich heritage. Removed from the glitzy and glam sunshine boulevards of Cancun, Mérida offers locals and tourists a piece of authentic Mexico, while also keeping a unique flavor and style that is unmistakably Yucatecan.

Quick guide for the city

• Gran Museo de Mundo Maya Merida

Discover the Mayan World at the Gran Museo de Mundo Maya Merida. With over 1,000 different treasures and artefacts, the Mayan World Museum is the place to go to learn more about the Mayan people, culture, and history. Taking guests on a journey throughout time, the exhibits start with natural history at the beginning of time, and ends with boundless information revolving around life of the modern Maya today. Any history buffs would absolutely love this museum that guarantees visitors an expansive education on the Mayan civilization.

• Paseo de Montejo

You can’t come to Merida without seeing the grand Paseo de Montejo. Built in Merida’s heyday, Paseo de Montejo conjectures images of Paris’s Champs-Élysées with its wide diameter, with lines of quaint cafes and historic buildings.

Whatever you stumble upon on this grand avenue is bound to fill your tummy, treat your eyes, and bring a smile.

• Plaza Grande

Situated in the very heart of Merida, Plaza Grande has always been the core of the city. Popular amongst locals and tourists alike, the plaza is aplomb with shops, bars, cafes, and restaurants.

Popular Destinations Near The City

• Tulum

One of the more recently built cities of the Mayan civilization, Tulum is an archaeological gem and a sunny Mexican paradise. An ultimate beach destination, Tulum boasts a breathtaking collection of gold beaches that run along Mexico’s east coast, framed by turquoise blue waters, and fringed by eclectic beach shacks serving the very best of seaside refreshments. The town retains a slower pace of life in comparison to its Caribbean cousins, where its refreshing lifestyle holds on its genuine authenticity and romantic Latin touch.

• Cancún

Buzzing, bright, and busy, Cancún is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Mexico. Aplomb with glitz and glamour, Cancún offers visitors the chance to be dazzled by its several featured cosmopolitan amenities including elegant hotels, vibrant nightlife, and sophisticated restaurants. However, Cancún is traditionally synonymous with reclining back on the sandy beaches, feeling the hot Mexican sun on your skin, and enjoying a refreshing cocktail.

Best Neighbourhoods in the City

• Santa Ana

A burgeoning art district with several galleries and museums, Santa Ana is home to an eclectic collection of hotels, restaurants, stores, and galleries. An abundantly green park shares a space with the old antique mansions, and the unique ambience of the Mercado livens up this neighborhood.