Mérida on the Maya Train

Yucatán

Mérida, the vibrant capital of Yucatán State, Mexico, entices visitors with its rich history, colonial architecture, and deep-rooted Maya culture.

Mérida is renowned for its diverse culinary scene, offering a tantalizing array of traditional Yucatecan dishes in its numerous restaurants. From savory cochinita pibil to refreshing aguas frescas, Mérida’s gastronomy is a true reflection of the region’s cultural heritage.

With its high quality of life and reputation as one of Mexico’s safest cities, Mérida has become a top destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and cultural enrichment. The city’s calendar is brimming with cultural festivals celebrating music, dance, and art, while its colonial architecture transports visitors back in time.

And with easy access to nearby archaeological sites like Uxmal and Chichén Itzá, Mérida serves as an ideal base for exploring the rich history and heritage of the Yucatán Peninsula.

Embark on a journey on the Maya Train to Mérida, Yucatán, a city where past and present intertwine, offering a truly unforgettable experience.

What is the History of Mérida?

The history of Mérida dates back to the pre-Hispanic era when the region was inhabited by the Maya civilization.

The Maya built several significant cities in the region, such as T’ho and Saki, which were located near what is now Mérida.

In 1542, Spanish conquistadors led by Francisco de Montejo founded the city of Mérida on the site of the ancient Maya city of T’ho.

Weather

Between 27°C and 35°C

Foundation

1542

Where is Mérida located?

Located less than 50 Km from the Gulf of Mexico in the northwest part of the state of Yucatán, which occupies the northern part of the Yucatán Peninsula.

It borders the state of Quintana Roo to the west, the state of Campeche to the west, and the Gulf of Mexico to the north.

Gallery

Mérida on the Maya Train

What are the Festivities of Mérida?

Mérida is a city full of festivities and celebrations throughout the year. Some of the most important ones include:

Mérida Carnival

It’s one of the city’s most popular festivities and is celebrated in February or March, depending on the date of Easter. For a week, the city is filled with parades, music, and dance, with colorful costumes and decorations alluding to the carnival.

Hanal Pixán

Hanal Pixán is a Maya celebration that takes place from October 31st to November 2nd, during the Day of the Dead. During this festival, families prepare altars to remember their deceased loved ones and offer typical dishes such as Mucbipollo and Pib, which are delicious traditional dishes of the region.

International Festival of Maya Culture

It is celebrated every year in October and is one of the most important cultural celebrations of the city. During the festival, there are art exhibitions, concerts, dance and music performances, as well as conferences and workshops about Maya culture.

What to do in Mérida, Yucatán?

There are many things to do in Mérida, as the city boasts a wide array of tourist and cultural attractions. Some options include:

Visiting the Canton Palace

Strolling along Paseo de Montejo

Taking a gastronomic tour

Going shopping at the markets

Relaxing in a cenote

Visiting the Celestun Ecological Reserve

Enjoying Animaya Park

Watching a show at the José Peón Contreras Theater

Highlighted Activities in Mérida

Mérida offers a wide variety of activities for all tastes and ages, some of the most prominent ones include:

Watching a baseball game

Enjoying Centenario Park

Exploring the historic downtown

Beaches in Mérida

Mérida doesn’t have proper beaches as it’s located inland in the state of Yucatán. However, there are several beaches relatively close to the city, some of which are: