Where to Stay in Mérida – A Guide to the Capital of Yucatán
Mérida is the capital and largest city of the state of Yucatán, Mexico. Located in the southeast of the country, near the Gulf of Mexico’s shores, Mérida is famous for its Mayan and colonial heritage. In this post, we will discover the best areas to stay in Mérida, Mexico.
The main tourist attractions in Mérida’s Historic Center include Paseo de Montejo, San Ildefonso Cathedral, Palacio Canton, Casa de Montejo, Museo Fernando García Ponce, Palacio de Gobierno del Estado de Yucatán, Plaza de la Independencia, and the Museum of the City of Merida. See accommodation in Mérida City Center.
History buffs and those interested in Mayan culture will be happy to know that Mérida is home to some impressive archeological sites and ruins, many of which are easily accessible from the city center. The most notable Mayan-related attractions in Mérida include the Dzibilchaltún archeological complex, the Mayan World Museum, and Sitio Arqueologico Chen Hó.
As if impressive Mayan ruins and gorgeous colonial and historical buildings weren’t enough, Mérida is also home to some incredible natural wonders. This old city is the perfect starting point to explore sights such as Cenote Xlacah, Acuaparque, Hundido de Brisas Park, or the renowned beaches on the Gulf of Mexico, both in Yucatán and the neighboring states.
Some kid-friendly attractions in Mérida also include Parque Zoológico del Centenario, Parque Zoológico Animaya, the Railroad Museum, and Río Salvaje Parque Acuático.
Like most inland places on the Yucatán Peninsula, Mérida has a tropical climate. This means that the city experiences an almost constant temperature (18-32 ºC) year-round and two seasons (wet and dry). The wet season lasts from May to October, while the dry season goes from November to April. The best time to visit Mérida is during the dry season. During these months, you can enjoy outdoor activities without having to worry about the humid season’s torrential rains.
To get to Mérida by air, the city is served by the Manuel Crescencio Rejón International Airport. Located on the southern edge of the city, this airport offers domestic connections to several destinations in Mexico, and a handful of international services, mainly to cities in the US.
To get to the city by bus, several long-distance bus companies also offer intercity travel to Mexico cities. See bus routes, schedules & fares.
Mérida’s public transportation consists of traditional bus lines. There are also taxis, and you can also choose to rent a cheap car in Mérida.
The best area to stay in Mérida is in the Historic City Center. This central and well-connected area is home to the city’s main cultural and historical sights, nightlife areas, restaurants, shops, and the top accommodation options. . See accommodation in Mérida City Center.
Another excellent option to keep in mind when choosing the best location in Mérida for tourists is Paseo de Montejo.
Keep reading to find out more about the best location for tourists in Mérida, Mexico.
The Best Areas to Stay in Mérida, Mexico
1. Recommended area: Mérida City Center
Considered one of the best areas to stay in Merida, the City Center stands out for its colonial architecture.
The Old Town is centered around the main square (Plaza Grande), surrounded by the Cathedral, the Government Palace, and the Municipal Palace.
Merida City Center is also home to other important buildings, such as the Casa de Montejo, the place of residence of the conquerors of Yucatán.
Another iconic landmark in the City Center is the Picheta Passage, located next to the Government Palace. This lively area is full of restaurants, cafés handicrafts stands, and traditional clothing shops.
The City Center is one of the best places to visit and stay in Mérida, as it hosts the best bars, canteens, and nightclubs.
This area is also known for its wide variety in accommodation options that range from small and charming posadas to the most luxurious hotels set in refurbished colonial mansions.
Why is this a recommended area to stay in Merida, MX:
- Best area for sightseeing
- Heart of the city
- Good public transport connections
- Great nightlife
Accommodation in this area
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Top Choice
Hotel Mérida
Hotel Merida is conveniently located in Mérida and offers American breakfast and free Wi-Fi throughout. It was built in 1940 and is a 4-minute walk from Merida Cathedral and 300 meters from the main square.
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Budget
Hotel Montejo
Montejo Hotel is located in Mérida, just 200 meters from the charming historic city center, and features an outdoor swimming pool and a restaurant. It also has a beautiful garden and free Wi-Fi.
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Luxury
Mansión Mérida On the Park
The Mérida On the Park Mansion is located in the center of the town of Mérida and occupies a renovated 17th-century French-style mansion. It offers an outdoor pool, a bistro bar, a gym and spa facilities.
2. Paseo de Montejo
Paseo Montejo or Montejo Walk is the most important boulevard in the city of Mérida.
It extends from the neighborhood of Santa Ana, in the center of the city, to the north of the city.
The imposing Paseo de Montejo has a design inspired by the grand French boulevards.
Paseo Montejo is home to iconic buildings and monuments.
This lovely street is lined with European-style mansions, once residences to Yucatan’s elites.
It also hosts boutique hotels, shops, museums and bars.
Along the avenue, there are restaurants, cafes, and patisseries for all tastes.
Paseo de Montejo is also very well-connected to the city center and pedestrian-friendly enough to allow for nice strolls.
Why is this a recommended area to stay in Merida, Mexico:
- Best area for shopping
- Boutique-type hotels
- Best area for nightlife
Accommodation in this area
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Top Choice
Fiesta Americana Mérida
This hotel is ideally located near the historic center of Merida, a short drive from the airport, and includes a Porfirian architecture and modern services and facilities.
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Budget
Ibis Mérida
The property is located very close to the new international convention center, just 3 minutes walk. The Ibis Mérida hotel is 3 minutes from the city center, 10 minutes from the 21st Century Convention Center.
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Luxury
Casa Azul Monumento Historico
The Casa Azul Monumento Histórico is a 19th-century listed building that is located 2 blocks from Montejo Avenue. This boutique hotel offers an outdoor pool, restaurant and luxury suites with free Wi-Fi.
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