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Planning a trip to Mérida? You’re in for a really fun few days.
Mérida is the cultural heart of the Yucatán, filled with historic mansions and lively markets, not to mention some of the best food in Mexico! There’s so much to do here, from listening to live music in buzzing squares to swimming in cenotes. With so much to see and do, planning a short trip can feel a little overwhelming, but don’t worry—we’re here to help!
After exploring Mérida’s neighborhoods, history, and food scene, we’ve put together a relaxed three-day itinerary that blends the must-sees with local experiences. Here’s how to make the most of your three days in Mérida.
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did was this full-day Chichen Itza tour. We left bright and early to stay ahead of the crowds, wandered Valladolid, cooled off with a cenote swim, and wrapped it all up with a seriously good buffet lunch.
Itinerary Overview
Mérida is easy to get around, so you can fit a lot into three days without rushing around. You can reach the city by flying directly into Mérida International Airport or taking the bus from Cancun or Valladolid. You can also drive in from a nearby region, but once you arrive, you won’t need a rental car unless you want one. The historic center is very walkable, and Uber is widely available for longer trips.
One of the coolest things about Mérida is its weekly lineup of cultural events. On Friday nights, Plaza Grande transforms with a lights and mixed media show, and throughout the week, you’ll also find outdoor concerts and pop-up performances across the city.
We didn’t add these directly into the itinerary because the schedule changes so often, but you’ll have plenty of downtime built in so you can take a look at what’s on and choose what fits your dates. You can check the full list of events here before planning your evenings.
Day 1: Start with a food tour that takes you through Mérida’s flavors and the Lucas de Gálvez market. Spend the afternoon exploring the historic center and Paseo de Montejo, then enjoy dinner and a relaxed evening in Plaza Grande.
Day 2: Head out early for a full day tour of Chichén Itzá, swimming in a private cenote, and wandering Izamal. Then, return to Mérida for a cozy dinner and a quiet night.
Day 3: Choose between a full-day trip to the pink lakes of Las Coloradas or a cooking class in the city. In the afternoon, check out Mérida’s museums before ending your trip with dinner and live music at a classic cantina.
Day 1
Morning – Discover Merida on a food tour
This street food walking tour is such a fun (and tasty) way to get to know Merida’s food scene. It runs from 10:30 am to 2:30 pm, so it doubles as a long, delicious lunch and a great intro to the city! I think it’s an especially smart choice for your first day because you learn so much right away, and you get a feel for how locals actually eat here.
One thing I really like about this tour is how immersive it is. Your guide takes you straight into Lucas de Gálvez, Mérida’s main market, which is a huge part of daily life here. It’s packed with every kind of vendor you can imagine, and going with a guide means you get to try the best of the best! You’ll snack on seasonal fruit, crispy empanadas, salbutes, and of course, two Yucatecan icons: cochinita pibil and panuchos. The tastings are generous, so arrive hungry!
There’s also a sweet stop inside the market to try local candies, which is a nice way to break up all the savory bites. After that, the group sits down for lunch. From Monday to Saturday, it’s a seafood meal at El Marlin Azul, and on Sundays and holidays, it switches to tacos and marquesitas, which are wildly popular with locals.
Then, the tour finishes on a sweet note with handcrafted gelato. It’s a delicious welcome to Mérida and, judging by all the 5-star reviews here, a clear favorite among travelers!
Book this authentic food tour here before spots fill up!
Afternoon – Explore the historic center
After the food tour ends, spend the afternoon walking off all that delicious food and getting to know Mérida’s historic center. As the capital of the Yucatán and the region’s cultural hub, there’s a lot to see here. You don’t need to try to fit it all in right now, but here are the key spots to explore:
- Walk the Paseo de Montejo – Start at the impressive Monumento a la Patria and make your way down Mérida’s most famous boulevard. It’s often compared to the Champs Élysées thanks to its luxury shops and café scene.
- Plaza Grande – At the end of your walk, you’ll reach Plaza Grande, the main square and one of the busiest areas in the city. Take some time to wander around the plaza and check out the surrounding streets. We’ll dedicate more time to the museums here on Day 3!
- Catedral de Mérida – This beautiful cathedral sits right on the square and is free to enter. Step inside for a quick look at its striking stone interior and quiet atmosphere.
- Palacio de Gobierno – This pastel green government building is open to visitors and surprisingly pretty inside. Pop in to see the murals and courtyards before continuing your walk.
Dinner – La Chaya Maya
La Chaya Maya is one of those places that makes you pause for a second because it has more than 25,000 Google reviews, which usually means one of two things: it’s either a total tourist trap or it’s genuinely great!
I won’t lie to you, we went in skeptical, but we were pleasantly surprised. The food is delicious, and it sits right near the plaza, so it has a lively atmosphere and a steady flow of people coming and going. It’s popular with both visitors and locals alike, which is always a good sign! The menu is packed with Yucatecan classics, so it’s a great place to try traditional dishes.
It does get busy, so don’t be shocked if there’s a bit of a wait, but once you’re seated, it’s a really fun and satisfying dinner spot. It’s definitely worth standing in line for a few minutes. Then, we’ve got an early start tomorrow, so we don’t recommend staying out too late tonight!
Day 2
Full day – Visit Chichen Itza, Izamal, and a private cenote
Of course, visiting Chichen Itza is a must when you’re in Mexico, and it’s just a 1.5-hour drive from Merida. So today, we recommend booking this full-day tour because it not only takes you to Chichen Itza, but also to the yellow city of Izamal and a beautiful cenote for a refreshing swim.
The tour meets at 6 am, so it’s an early start, but it’s well worth it because you’ll get to Chichen Itza in time to beat both the crowds and the intense midday heat. This makes a huge difference—I got incredible photos of the pyramid with no one in the background!
We also loved visiting Chichen Itza with a guide, because he shared some fascinating stories about Mayan culture, and we also had time to wander around on our own and take it all in. Standing in front of the iconic El Castillo pyramid was one of those “pinch me” moments I’ll never forget.
After exploring the ruins, we cooled off with a swim in a crystal-clear cenote. If you’ve never swum in a cenote before, trust me, it’s a bucket-list experience. The turquoise water is unbelievably refreshing, and swimming beneath ancient rock formations was so much fun.
The final stop was Izamal, AKA the “Yellow City”. Everything here is painted in vibrant yellow, and strolling through its colorful streets felt like being inside a postcard. You can even climb an ancient pyramid here, which was a fun way to end the day.
The tour gets back to Merida around 4 pm, so you’ll have time to rest before a relaxed and cozy dinner tonight. All in all, we think it’s a fantastic way to see Yucatán’s top highlights in one day for an incredible deal. Having said that, don’t forget extra cash for lunch and the Chichen Itza state tax!
Check 350+ glowing reviews and book this full-day adventure here!
Dinner – El Apapacho
After a long day of exploring today, you’ll want to take a little time to unwind at your hotel before heading to dinner. Then, when you’re ready, make your way to El Apapacho, an artsy spot that’s a bit outside the historic center. It’s actually really nice to switch neighborhoods for the evening and see a different side of Mérida!
El Apapacho has a cozy vibe and even doubles as a small bookstore, which of course only adds to the charm. The menu focuses on fresh Mexican dishes with lots of color and flavor, and everything feels thoughtfully prepared but not fussy. The restaurant is open until 10 pm, so you don’t need to rush.
Day 3
We’ve got two options for you today! A trip to Las Colaradas is an epic experience, but it’s also a really long day, so we’ve added an alternative option in case you’d rather enjoy a slower day of soaking up the local culture in the city. There’s no right or wrong choice, just do what suits your travel style best!
Option 1: Las Coloradas full day tour
This full-day adventure is one of the most memorable ways to experience the wild beauty of the Yucatán Peninsula. It’s a long day, running from 7 am to 8 pm, but if you’ve got the energy, we think it’s totally worth it. Plus, all tickets, taxes, and entrance fees are already included, so you can just relax and enjoy the journey.
The day starts early with pick-ups around Mérida before heading out on a three-hour drive to Las Coloradas, home to the famous bright-pink salt pools. Visiting with a certified guide makes a big difference because you learn how this otherworldly landscape forms and get access to the viewpoint for the best photos! The color is unbelievable in person, and you’ll be talking about this unique spot long after the trip ends.
From there, the tour continues to Cancunito Beach, an untouched stretch of coastline that many people call the most beautiful in Yucatán. You get about 45 minutes here to swim, take photos, and enjoy the quiet. There are no facilities, so be prepared, but that’s part of what keeps it so pristine!
Next comes the boat tour through the Río Lagartos Reserve, which is a real highlight if you ask me. The area is packed with wildlife, so keep your binoculars close! Flamingos, crocodiles, eagles, and all kinds of seabirds call this area home. The boat also stops at a natural clay beach where you can exfoliate your skin, which is a fun little bonus before lunch.
The tour ends with a well-earned meal at Maleconcito, a waterfront restaurant where you can choose a dish from a set menu. Drinks do cost extra, but the food is excellent, and it’s the perfect way to wrap up the day before the drive back to Mérida. If you want a mix of nature, wildlife, and jaw-dropping scenery, this is a fantastic choice.
Read all the 5-star reviews and book this full-day tour here!
Option 2: Cooking class and museums in Merida
Morning – Learn how to cook authentic Mexican food
I’ve always loved Mexican food, and I know I’m not alone in this! That’s why I think that this authentic Mexican cooking class is the perfect, more relaxed alternative to the Las Coloradas tour this morning. Plus, it doubles as lunch, making it a great value for money!
The tour begins at 9 am, so you’ll get a bit of extra time in bed if you choose this class, and then the experience kicks off with a visit to a local market. Here, our awesome guide, Gisel, introduced us to fresh produce and unique Yucatecan spices like recado rojo and achiote. We tasted fresh fruit from the stalls and learned about the key ingredients that make Yucatecan cuisine so distinct. After gathering everything we needed, we headed to the kitchen.
Then, with step-by-step guidance from a local chef, we prepared classic dishes like sikil pak (pumpkin seed dip), empanadas, and pollo pibil. The chef made each step simple and fun, so whether you’re a total beginner or a home-cooking pro, you’ll be able to follow along with ease.
But the best part was sitting down to enjoy the meal we’d prepared together at the end. It was the perfect way to reflect on everything we’d learned while enjoying the incredible, fresh flavors.
If you love Mexican food as much as I do, make sure this cooking class ends up on your itinerary. It’s an unforgettable way to experience the culture of Mérida and learn some new skills you can take home with you—plus it’s highly rated with HUNDREDS of 5-star reviews you can read here!
Book this cooking class here and get ready to cook like a local!
Afternoon – Hit a museum
Mérida is the cultural center of the Yucatán, so the city has some excellent museums to choose from. This afternoon is a great chance to learn more about the region’s history and art. Here are a few solid options to choose from:
- Museum of Anthropology and History in Mérida – A great introduction to both Mayan and Spanish influences in the region. The collection is easy to explore and gives you useful context for everything you’ve seen so far on your trip. It’s open until 5 pm daily and tickets cost $100 MXN (about $5 USD).
- Mayan World Museum of Mérida – A large, modern museum with multimedia exhibits, sculptures, and immersive displays. It covers everything from ancient history to contemporary culture. It’s a bit outside the historic center, but the scale and quality make the trip worthwhile. It’s open daily until 5 pm but closed on Tuesdays, and entrance is $150 MXN (about $8 USD).
- Museo Casa Montejo – A smaller museum set inside a beautiful 16th-century building right on Plaza Grande. It’s quick to visit and offers a look at colonial history through restored rooms and artifacts. It’s free to enter, closed on Mondays, and open until 6 pm for the rest of the week.
Dinner – Rosa Sur 32°
No matter which option you choose for the day, Rosa Sur 32° is a great place to wrap up your evening. It’s a smaller spot tucked right into the historic center, and it feels more like a local find than the bigger, busier restaurants nearby. The dining room is warm and stylish, and the menu features creative Mexican dishes with really fresh flavors.
It has an upscale feel but without the steep prices—yay! This makes it a solid choice if you want something special to wrap up your trip. Since the space is on the smaller side, making a reservation here is a good idea, especially on weekends.
Evening – La Negrita Cantina
End your final night in Mérida at La Negrita Cantina, a lively cocktail bar that always has something happening. There’s live music every night, the atmosphere is upbeat, and the crowd is a fun mix of locals and visitors. It’s a lot of fun, and it’s also less than 10 minutes from Rosa Sur 32° on foot, so stroll over when you’re ready and grab a drink or two before calling it a night. Cheers!
Related Read: Looking for additional ideas? Our best things to do in Mérida guide has plenty of options to round out your trip.
Where to Stay in Merida, Mexico
Now that you’ve got your perfect three days in Merida planned, you just need a comfortable place to stay! All of the hotels we’ve recommended below are in the historic center, because staying here will ensure that you can easily get around on foot and really make the most of this vibrant colonial city.
We know how long it can take to trawl through all of the different hotel options within a given area, so we’ve done the heavy lifting for you! Below, you’ll find our top picks for every budget, whether you’re looking to splurge on a luxury stay or bag a budget find.
Luxury – $$$
Boutique by The Museo is a great pick if you want a stylish, peaceful stay right in the cultural heart of Mérida. The hotel sits inside a historic building just steps from Palacio Cantón, so the location is fantastic. The suites are spacious and comfortable, with a small kitchenette, a dining area, and a seating space, which gives you a lot more flexibility than a standard hotel room.
There’s an outdoor pool for cooling off in the afternoons, plus a lovely terrace and quiet courtyard areas. Breakfast is included and features fruit, granola, eggs, bread, yoghurt, and fresh coffee. The staff here are friendly and available around the clock, and free parking is a nice bonus if you’re driving.
Prices usually start around $220 USD per night and go up to $700 USD depending on the size of the suite. Check availability and book your stay here!
Mid-range – $$
Ya’ax Hotel Boutique is a lovely mid-range option in central Mérida, offering a stylish stay without the luxury price tag. The hotel blends modern design with a relaxed, tropical feel, and the outdoor spaces are a big part of its charm. There’s a year-round swimming pool surrounded by greenery, a sun terrace for unwinding between activities, and a small garden that gives the property a quiet, tucked-away atmosphere despite being right in the heart of the historic city.
The rooms are comfortable and well equipped, with air conditioning, flat screen TVs, minibars, and private bathrooms. Some have outdoor seating areas, which is a nice perk if you like having your own little corner to relax in. There’s also an on-site restaurant serving local and Caribbean-inspired dishes – yum!
Prices generally range between $200 and $450 USD per night. Read the glowing reviews and book your stay here!
Budget – $
Hotel Boutique Casa San Angel is a charming, budget-friendly stay in the center of Mérida, set inside a beautiful 19th-century building with plenty of character. The hotel has an inviting outdoor pool that’s perfect for cooling off after a day of sightseeing, and there are a few quiet corners around the property where you can relax with a drink or a book, as well as a handful of on-site boutiques.
The rooms are simple but comfortable, with air conditioning, free Wi Fi, flat screen TVs, and private bathrooms. You’ll also find traditional hammocks in each room, which is a fun local touch. Filtered water is provided, and the building itself has an interesting history, as it was once the home of Graciano Ricalde, a well-known mathematician and scientist!
Prices typically range between $80 and $200 USD per night. Reserve your stay here!
For even more great hotel picks, check out all the accommodations listed for Mérida here!
Renting a Car in Mexico
Undoubtedly, one of the best ways to get around Mexico is in a rental car.
I struggled to get around by bus and taxi for the longest time. But after renting a car in Cancun in 2023, I never looked back. It allowed me to explore the country without worrying about tours or taxis. It was why I fell in love with Mexico and eventually decided to live here periodically.
I refuse to use local services whenever I rent a car in Mexico. The truth is they sometimes can’t be trusted or come with hidden fees (or costly insurance that doesn’t make sense.) There are even rental car scams! So instead, I use Discover Cars, the company most experienced travelers or ex-pats in Mexico recommend. Read my honest review of Discover Cars here for more details!
The rates on Discover Cars are cheap, too, with the average rental costing around $25 USD per day. Full coverage insurance can be added for an extra $10 USD a day too.
Driving in Mexico also only requires a driver’s license using the Roman alphabet. If yours uses another like Japan and China, you simply need an international driving permit.
Insurance is required, but if you book with Discover Cars and get the full coverage, that’s all you need! Oh, and being over 18 is required, and if you’re over 25, your rental will be much cheaper!
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In simple terms, it’s the easiest way to get data and stay connected while traveling.
We’ve tested a bunch of eSIMs over the years, and after a few frustrating experiences, we’ve found our favorite — Airalo. It’s fast, reliable, and incredibly easy to use. You can set it up in minutes (even my mom managed it solo on her first try!), and the prices are some of the best out there.
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Thanks for reading!
We hope this Mérida itinerary inspires you as much as the city inspired us. It’s built around everything we loved—amazing food, rich history, colorful streets, and unforgettable day trips. Just remember to book tours and restaurants ahead, especially in busy seasons, because Mérida is getting more popular every year!
And if you’re looking for even more Mexico travel tips, check out all of our Mexico blogs here—we’ve written many guides around the Yucatán and beyond, so you’ll find plenty of inspiration for wherever you’re headed next. Or check out some of our most popular guides below for even more inspiration. Cheers to planning an amazing trip!
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