Spend 48 hours in Mérida, Mexico, and immerse yourself in the rich history, vibrant culture, and culinary delights of Yucatán’s charming capital. From strolling through colourful colonial streets to savouring authentic Yucatan dishes and exploring ancient Mayan ruins nearby, Mérida offers a perfect blend of past and present. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, foodie, or culture lover, this 48-hour Merida itinerary will ensure you experience the very best of Mérida.
Wondering where to stay in Merida? Merida is a great base to visit Celestun and the pink flamingos, as well as Chichen Itza, Uxmal and Izamal.
Wondering when is the best time to visit Merida? Merida’s weather is perfect in winter from November to March. We visited in February, and the weather was perfect for sightseeing.
Dive into a community of passionate Mexico travellers sharing honest, unfiltered advice and insider secrets! From hidden beaches to authentic local experiences, our private Facebook group is your gateway to discovering the Mexico tourists rarely see. Join us and plan your dream Mexican adventure with those who know and love this vibrant country!
This post may contain affiliate links. Please see our disclosure for more information. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases (if applicable).
How to Spend 48 Hours in Merida
Day One
Visit the Champs Elysee of Merida
The “Champs Elysee” of Merida – Paseo de Montejo. 5 miles long, this street was the dream that came to fruition from the Sisal Barons who travelled to Paris and wanted to replicate what they saw. Large, wide, tree-lined boulevard architecturally superior palaces and mansions filled with the most expensive interior designs and furnishings of the time.
When artificial twine was invented, the Sisal Barons lost their fortunes and moved to Mexico City, leaving their mansions to start over again. The mansions and palaces fell into decay as the poorer people who moved in could not afford their upkeep. It is reported that there are 40,000 abandoned buildings still in Merida.
These days some buildings have been restored and purchased by hotels, banks and insurance companies. Some are decaying rapidly as funds are not available for the upkeep, there are even some families have just left them to decay, trying to live in them till the very last moment.
Canton Palace
It was built in the early 19th Century for one of Merida’s most famous Military personnel, who in 1890 was the State Governor of Yucatan – General Francisco Cantón Rosado. It is now the Regional Museum of Anthropology and History.
Twin Houses
The Chamber Brothers, Ernesto & Camilo, in 1906, bought plans back from France to have two identical mansions built – one for each brother on the same block of land. The mansion on the left was left unfinished, the one on the right included a top floor. The two different families who now own the mansions have requested the local government to separate each property with a fence – their request has been refused.
Quinta Montes Molina
The Quinta Montes Molina was constructed by the Cuban family Portuando Regil in 1902. Senor Molina, who made his fortune from ‘henequen’ in the Yucatan, later purchased the home. Today, when you enter the home, you can marvel at the antique furniture, Carrara marble floors, expensive baccarat and Murano crystal chandeliers and art deco pieces over 120 years old.
Montejo Museum
All Spanish towns and cities have a large central square or Zocalo and Merida is no different, this colonial rich city has one of the prettiest and shadiest we have seen. Merida’s most famous building is located opposite the Zocalo.
“The jewel of the most valuable plateresque (meaning in the manner of the silversmith) art that we possess in civil architecture) is how Casa Francisco de Montejo has been described. The Montejo Family (also known as the Conquerors of the Yucatan) built their mansion between 1542 and 1549.
Sadly, the family ran into financial problems over many years and had to sell off some of the sectors, it originally sat on the whole block and was the only private home that faced the middle of the Zocalo. The windows were ‘neo-classical’ in design and the interior in colonial style. It was kept in the family till 1970, when excessive local taxes started to cripple the family finances, and it was sold to the National Bank of Mexico. They plan to run the Bank’s business in the rear of the building and preserve the front section as a Museum for all to enjoy.
As you wander through the building, you notice the high ceilings that were used for ventilation, as well as the expensive antique furniture imported from Austria. If only the walls could talk. The lifestyle of the rich and famous over centuries, the parties held there, important family events and general day-to-day living. The courtyard and the external corridor that winds around it invite you to sit and just ponder.
Merida’s Cathedral
Merida’s cathedral, built by the Franciscans in 1561, took 30 years to build. Stories tell of ancient Mayan pyramids torn down, stones used as building blocks, and the Cathedral was built over the Mayan town of T’ho. As Cathedrals go this one I felt was quite plain, cold and uninviting and not highly decorated as some we have visited in Mexico.
Day Two
Mérida: Panoramic Sightseeing Tour Bus Ticket with 2 Routes
Discover Mérida with a choice of 2 sightseeing tours by panoramic double-decker bus. Enjoy unparalleled views from the top deck and see all the key sights as you uncover all the city offers.
Historical and cultural tour in Merida, Yucatan, Mexico
Get to know the history and culture of Merida, touring emblematic sites of the city such as the colonial style downtown and Paseo de Montejo, with its eclectic architecture, accompanied by a local guide.
Merida Cooking Class
Immerse yourself in the local culture! This tour will take you to the local market, where, after buying all your supplies, you’ll take an exciting bus ride to the local home where your host and guide will guide you step by step to cook a traditional menu.
Where to Stay in Merida
For the latest accommodation deals and availability, we always use Booking.com
More Things to do in Merida
More travel inspirations for the Yucatan Peninsula:
Visit the Pink Flamingos in the wild at Celestun
Chichen Itza Day Visit and The Evening Light Show
Our Ultimate Guide on visiting the Yucatan Peninsula
Do You Need an E-Sim?
Using an eSIM from e-Simatic when you travel offers convenience, flexibility, and cost savings. With no physical SIM card required, you can easily activate a local or international data plan before or during your trip. e-Simatic’s eSIMs provide reliable mobile coverage in multiple countries, eliminating the hassle of swapping SIM cards or dealing with expensive roaming charges. Stay connected for navigation, communication, and sharing your adventures without interruption, making your travel experience smoother and more enjoyable.
Flight Deals to Mexico
Find the cheapest flights with Skyscanner our ‘go-to’ when researching and booking flights.
Bus Travel In Mexico
Simplify your bus travel planning with Busbud, your one-stop platform for booking bus tickets worldwide. Compare routes, schedules, and prices from trusted bus operators in over 80 countries. With a user-friendly interface and secure payment options, Busbud makes it easy to find the best deals and book your tickets in minutes. Travel with confidence and explore new destinations effortlessly.
World Nomads offers simple and flexible travel insurance. Buy at home or while traveling and claim online from anywhere in the world.
Conclusion:
In just 48 hours, Mérida, Mexico, offers a captivating mix of history, culture, and cuisine that will leave you wanting more. From its colonial charm and bustling markets to its vibrant nightlife and nearby natural wonders, this Yucatecan gem provides unforgettable experiences at every turn. Whether it’s your first visit or one of many, Mérida’s warm hospitality and unique charm will ensure it remains a favourite destination. Until next time, ¡hasta pronto!
Are you on Pinterest? We are at To Travel Too, and we have many travel-related boards. Check us out on Pinterest. If you enjoyed our article, why not pin it to your board and read it later?
Thanks guys for your comments! Hope all going well!