Why Merida Captivates Digital Nomads
Before diving into the specifics, it's worth noting what makes Merida stand out. The city's entire historic center is a walkable marvel, filled with colorful facades, grand plazas, and hidden courtyards. This walkability, combined with its reputation for safety, allows you to integrate into daily life seamlessly, whether you're finding a new café to work from or simply enjoying an evening stroll without a care. Here are the 12 best things to experience in and around Merida in 2025.
1. Explore Plaza Grande and the Cathedral of Mérida
The heart of Merida is Plaza Grande, the main square buzzing with energy. It's the perfect starting point for any exploration. Dominating the plaza is the stunning Cathedral of Mérida, one of the oldest cathedrals on the American continent, dating back to the 1500s. Its history is palpable; it was constructed with stones from a dismantled Maya temple, a stark symbol of the Spanish colonial era. Entry is free, so you can step inside and marvel at its grandeur. While you're in the plaza, don't miss the Palacio de Gobierno, which houses incredible murals depicting the region's history.
Nomad Tip: Don't miss the free re-enactment of the ancient Maya Ballgame every Saturday at 8:00 PM just outside the cathedral. The area gets crowded, so arrive at least 25 minutes early to secure a good viewing spot.
2. Stroll Down the Grand Paseo de Montejo
Often compared to the Champs-Élysées in Paris, Paseo de Montejo is Merida's most famous and impressive avenue. Lined with magnificent colonial mansions, this street tells the story of the city's wealthy past. Start at the iconic Monument to the Fatherland (Monumento a la Patria) and walk south. Many of the grand homes, like the Casas Gemelas (Twin Houses), are now museums (Quinta Montes Molina, Palacio Cantón) that you can enter to see their opulent interiors. Plan for about three hours to fully appreciate the architecture and pop into a museum or two.
3. Discover a World-Class Food Scene
Merida is a true foodie city, offering everything from traditional Yucatecan cuisine to trendy, modern eateries. Here are a few must-visit spots:
Holoch: A top recommendation for dinner, serving elevated regional dishes. Be sure to try the Frijol con Puerco (Yucatan-style black beans with pork) and reserve a table in advance.
La Negrita Cantina: The perfect spot for a lively evening. Enjoy live music, hearty Mexican food, and fantastic cocktails. Arrive early to get a seat near the stage.
Vana: A cool, atmospheric restaurant and bar popular with locals and visitors alike.
For a Quick Bite: Near Parroquia Santa Ana (a short walk from Paseo de Montejo), stop by El Barrio for delicious Chilaquiles and refreshing horchata.
4. Take a Day Trip to Chichen Itza
No trip to the Yucatan is complete without visiting Chichen Itza, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Located about a two-hour drive from Merida, this iconic Maya site is home to the magnificent Temple of Kukulcán (El Castillo) and ancient ball courts. While you can no longer climb the pyramids, their sheer scale is awe-inspiring. The easiest way to visit is by booking a guided tour from Merida, which typically includes transportation and an expert guide to explain the rich history. Book tickets well in advance, as they often sell out.
5. Uncover the Ruins of Uxmal
While Chichen Itza gets more attention, many argue that Uxmal is just as impressive and often less crowded. This UNESCO World Heritage site, about an hour from Merida, was a major Maya trading city. You can explore incredible structures like the Pyramid of the Magician and the Governor's Palace. A visit usually takes 2-4 hours. Be prepared for the heat—there is very little shade, so bring plenty of water and sunscreen.
6. Swim in the Hacienda Mucuyché Cenotes
Combine your trip to Uxmal with a visit to the nearby Hacienda Mucuyché Cenotes. This unique experience allows you to tour a historic hacienda before taking a refreshing swim in two stunning cenotes. It's a perfectly organized and safe adventure; you must book a guided tour in advance (specifying English or Spanish), and life jackets are mandatory.
7. Experience a Speakeasy at Decu Merida
Even if you're not staying there, the Decu Merida hotel is worth a visit for its hidden speakeasy. Tucked away behind a set of bookshelves, it's a fantastic spot for a craft cocktail in a unique setting. The hotel itself is a beautiful blend of historic architecture and modern design, with a gorgeous courtyard pool that feels like a secret garden—embodying the hidden gems you can find all over Merida.
8. Step Back in Time at Museo Casa Montejo
Located on the edge of Plaza Grande, the Museo Casa Montejo offers a glimpse into the life of the Spanish conquistadors. The museum is housed in a 16th-century building and features period furniture and art that showcases the Spanish influence on the city. It's free to enter and takes less than 30 minutes to explore, making it a perfect quick cultural stop. Note that most information is in Spanish.
9. Immerse Yourself in Maya Culture at the Mayan World Museum
For a deeper understanding of the region's indigenous history, visit the Gran Museo del Mundo Maya (Mayan World Museum of Mérida). Located on the outskirts of the city, this modern museum provides a comprehensive look at Maya culture, from its ancient origins to its resilience in the face of Spanish colonialism. It's a fascinating 90-minute experience for a small admission fee (around $10 USD).
10. See the Flamingos in Celestun
Escape the city for a day and head to the coast to visit the Ria Celestún Biosphere Reserve. This is one of the most important nesting grounds for pink flamingos north of the equator. The best way to experience it is by booking a tour that includes a boat trip through the reserve, allowing you to get an up-close look at thousands of these magnificent birds in their natural habitat.
11. Appreciate Music History at Palacio de la Música
Just a five-minute walk from Plaza Grande, the Palacio de la Música is a modern interactive museum dedicated to the history of Mexican and Yucatecan music. While it may be a niche interest, it's a well-designed space that's perfect for music lovers or anyone looking for a unique indoor activity.
12. Stay in a Boutique Oasis like Casa Olivia
To truly embrace the Merida lifestyle, consider staying in one of its many boutique hotels or 'casas'. Casa Olivia is a perfect example—a small, intimate property with only a few rooms centered around a gorgeous pool. It provides a tranquil oasis away from the city buzz while still being centrally located. Experiencing this kind of hospitality is a key part of what makes staying in Merida so special.
