Merida

Merida's hot and humid climate leaves plenty of room for sun and only a small space for anything but. The city's warmest months lie between March and September, sporting an average high of 33 C with temperatures often rising above 38 C. The average low usually hits 21 C.

Although rain season is prominent between June and October, guests of Merida need not fret — the rain will be warm due to the city's low elevation, so vacationers should grab a pina colada and go get caught in it. Please note that tropical storms are more likely to occur during the summer months.

Home to the second largest historic center in Mexico, Merida represents the best of both past and present. Architectural styles run from ancient Mayan to Spanish and French colonial. An impressive indigenous population intermingles with a growing expat community. Get swept up in the bustling city center or be charmed by the parks and churches in quieter Merida neighborhoods.

Centro
Central Merida revolves around Plaza Grande, a picturesque square filled with shady laurel trees and open space to stroll around. Plaza Grande regularly hosts local events like a weekly Sunday market, and most nights it comes alive with music and dance. The area surrounding the park is always busy in the best way. Cafes, ice cream parlors, bookstores, and other quaint shops line the central streets alongside mesmerizing architecture. Points of interests in central Merida include the Catedral San Ildefonso, MACAY Museum, and Governor’s Palace.

Mejorada
East of Centro is Mejorada, a largely residential neighborhood with a sizable expat community. The area experienced significant growth during the railroad era in the late-18th century and more recently experienced a cultural boom that resulted in lots of restoration and several great neighborhood restaurants. Savor traditional Mexican or something more international after checking out the Yucatan Railway Museum, located on the north side of Mejorada Park. When visiting the park itself, keep an eye out for local youth groups practicing dance in the tranquil setting.

Santiago
The Santiago Church is one of the best-known religious structures in Merida, characterized by several buttresses and a tiered belfry. Near to the church is Parque de Santiago, a bustling attraction for both visitors and locals. The nearby Santos Degollado market draws crowds with its delicious and authentic food stalls, as well as its charming flower vendors. You’ll find a cultural center, cinema, and various shops in Santiago, making it a must-see among Merida neighborhoods.

San Juan
One of the oldest neighborhoods in Merida, San Juan houses a few centuries-old landmarks. Parque San Juan holds historical significance as the place where Vicente Maria Velasquez formed the Sanjuanistas, a group dedicated to protecting the interests of Yucatan natives from those of the Spanish crown. The yellow arch found at the southern end of the park is a colorful example of unique Merida architecture, and the fountain in the center of the park is the only one of its kind in the city. Also notable is the San Juan church, which dates back to the late-18th century.

Santa Lucia
This neighborhood takes its name from the Santa Lucia Church, which sits across from the third oldest park in Merida. Local events like music and dance performances are often held in Parque Santa Lucia, and artisan booths are set up most Sundays. This neighborhood is also home to some of the most coveted eateries in town, including the delectable Ki Xocolatl chocolate shop. Head to Santa Lucia for a traditional Yucatecan Serenade followed by something sweet.

Santa Ana
Santa Ana was created to house the indigenous population in Merida as the city continued to grow throughout the 18th century. Like many neighborhoods in Merida, Santa Ana has a notable church and square, built where Mayan structures once stood. Today, it is known as a burgeoning art district, home to galleries and museums. Also found in and around the Santa Ana square are shops and cafes that show off Yucatecan tastes, as well as a small market filled with local crafts.

San Cristobal
San Cristobal hosts an annual Virgin of Guadalupe celebration at the iconic San Cristobal church, making both the neighborhood and its star landmark important sites in Merida. One of the oldest in the city, this neighborhood is also one of the largest in the city’s historic center.

Itzimna
Years ago, Itzimna was a place where wealthy hacienda owners built lavish second homes. Many of these estates have been repurposed though others still stand as gorgeous and sprawling homes. An upscale area, the Itzimna neighborhood is home to some delicious dining options, and the Itzimna Church often hosts picturesque weddings. Surrounding the church is a shady square where you can find peace and soak up the lovely surroundings.

Garcia Gineres
Although the Garcia Gineres neighborhood is largely residential, it houses Parque de Las Americas, an important cultural attraction in Merida. Local events are often held in the park, celebrating everything from athletics to the arts. Though it has some nice examples of traditional architecture, the mostly residential neighborhood is filled with more modern homes. Follow along the Avenida Colon for a taste of what Garcia Gineres has to offer.

Merida

State: Yucatan

Country: Mexico

Merida by the Numbers
Population: 970,377
Elevation: 10 meters / 30 feet
Average Annual Precipitation: 98 centimeters / 39 inches
Average January Temperature: 23°C / 74°F
Average July Temperature: 28°C / 83°F

Quick Facts
Electricity: 110 volts, 60 cycles, AC

Time Zone: UTC-6; Central Standard Time (CST)

Country Dialing Code: 52

Area Code: 999

Did You Know?
Catedral San Ildefonso in Plaza Grande, established in the late-15th century, is the oldest cathedral in the continental Americas.

Orientation
Merida is located in the northern part of the Yucatan Peninsula in the Yucatan province of Mexico. It is 1,007 kilometers (626 miles) east of Mexico City and 303 kilometers (188 miles) west of Cancun.

Rich with history and natural beauty, Merida is an excellent city to explore simply by walking around. Tour these attractions for experiences that are as aesthetic as they are enriching.

Plaza Grande
Free walking tours are available at Plaza Grande most mornings, providing interactive opportunities to learn about Merida’s captivating history. Whether with a guide or on your own, work your way around the central square, stopping at the Saint Ildefonso Cathedral, MACAY Museum, House of Montejo Museum, City Hall, Olimpo Cultural Center, and Palacio de Gobierno. After, head to Pancho’s for fresh guacamole and a refreshing margarita.

Paseo de Montejo
Main street and popular landmark in Merida, Paseo de Montejo stretches roughly eight kilometers (five miles) beginning at Parque Santa Ana. The avenue is surrounded by charming cafes and historic mansions, not to mention several points of interest. Visit the Santa Ana Church by the park, then stroll down the avenue under the shade of towering trees. Grab lunch at Trattoria la Pasta, then head across the street to Helados Colon for ice cream. If it’s too hot to explore Paseo de Montejo on foot, take a horse-drawn carriage down the magnificent Merida street instead.

Parque de Las Americas
One of the best places to pass an afternoon in the city, Parque de Las Americas is always full of life. The park is split into four sections, each of which has something fun to offer. In one corner, you’ll find an open-air theater decorated in the Maya style. In another, you’ll find a playground and small track, perfect for a family day or outdoor workout. The park’s main attraction, a series of totem poles representing all the countries of North and South America, sits behind the Jose Marti Library. Head here for a local event or afternoon adventure. You’ll find lots of food stalls set up in the evening, making Parque de Las Americas worth touring at any time.

Guided Tours
Los 7 Cenotes (+52 999 645 5722/ http://www.xperiencia7cenotes.com/)

Adventures Mexico Day Tours (+52 999 925 1700/ http://adventures-mexico.com/)

Merida Urban Adventures (+52 1 55 1632 0847/ http://www.meridaurbanadventures.com/)

Mayan Ecotours (+52 999 987 3710/ http://www.mayanecotours.com/)

Adventure Tours Yucatan (+52 999 944 2173/ http://www.adventuretours.com.mx/)

Grupo Auto Progreso (+52 999 132 3757/ https://autoprogreso.squarespace.com/)