Mérida Vacation Rentals

Set within the Yucatán Peninsula near the Gulf of Mexico, Merida is an excellent base for visiting nature reserves, ancient archaeological sites, and the "magic towns" of Izamal and Valladolid. Merida vacation rentals put you in the centre of it all.

Mexican Culinary Delights in Merida

Begin the day with chilaquiles (breakfast nachos) made from meat, salsa, or egg, and at lunch, munch on Merida's highly recommended seafood, such as buttery shrimp, octopus, and fresh ceviche. Ubiquitous at most food stands are Lebanese-inspired tacos al pastor, marquesitas (crunchy crepes), and papadzules (stuffed tortillas).

Head to Mercado 60, an outdoor food court that serves classic Mexican and Brazilian fare, or pick up organic fruit, veggies, and cheese at the bustling Mercado Lucas De Gálvez and Mercado Santiago.

Merida's Mayan Ancient History and Museums

Learn about Mayan civilization through the Gran Museo de Mundo Maya's 1000+ exhibits, and see Spanish colonial architecture in Merida's historical centre, Plaza Grande. Don't miss the imposing crucifix at the 16th-century Catedral de San Ildefonso. Several free walking tours are available in the city.

There are also the ruins of the pre-Columbian city of Chichén Itzá, which attract thousands – try to see the site at an autumn equinox, when the castle temple forms a shadow resembling a slithering serpent. Equally awe-inspiring is the 40-metre-high Pyramid of the Magician at Uxmal.

Nightlife in Merida: Night Football, Parties, and Carriage Rides

Dance away to Latin beats at La Fundacion Mezcaleria, or reggaeton and salsa tunes at Mambo Café. If clubbing is not your thing, head to Plaza Grande at night for a game of pok-ta-pok (an ancient Mayan football game), local dances, or ambient light shows projected onto the cathedral.

Finish your visit with a symphony or ballet at the stately century-old Teatro José Peón Contreras, along with a romantic horse-drawn carriage ride through the streets of Mexico's timeless "White City."

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