Merida, Mexico is a lesser known but popular cruise port of call. You should make plans to visit this unique city. It is perhaps one of the most fascinating cities in all of Latin America. It’s also the capital of the state of Yucatan. Merida is the largest and fastest growing city in the country. It’s also one of the safest places to visit in Mexico.

The Connection to Merida Spain

Located in Southern Mexico and named for Mérida, Spain—the birthplace of Spanish conqueror Hernán Cortés—this city is steeped in both history and nature. A stone’s throw from Yucatán’s Yumkaam Mountains, Merida’s colonial-era buildings sit nestled against an ancient Mayan archaeological site, suggesting a city whose history dates back to well before modern civilization began.

Bilingual Culture

It’s a rarity in today’s world for two languages to coexist, but that’s exactly what you find in Merida. Spanish and Yucatec Maya are both official languages here—so whether you want to learn or simply understand more about another culture, a trip down south is perfect for you.

A City of Adventure

With dozens of Mayan archaeological sites, lush jungles and idyllic beaches right at your doorstep, Mérida is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. The area’s rugged mountains are perfect for hiking and biking while its crystal clear waters are ideal for snorkeling and scuba diving. And if you’re in need of rest and relaxation after exploring all that Mérida has to offer, why not do it with a splash? Check out one of several water parks found throughout town.

The Best Weather in the World

This city is well known for its temperature and climate. In fact, it’s one of only a few places in North America that enjoys sunshine every day of the year—unsurprisingly, it’s also one of Mexico’s most popular vacation destinations. Fewer than 5 percent of visitors will experience cloudy weather during their stay; cloud cover doesn’t last more than a couple hours at a time.

One of the Best Craft Beer Scenes in the World

In 2014, England’s CAMRA ranked Merida in its top five cities for craft beer. Visitors and residents alike can choose from among dozens of microbreweries and craft beers—and there are just as many different ways to enjoy them. Beer lovers can head straight for one of several brewpubs around town that feature their own house-made beverages on tap, often alongside regional Mexican fare or simple burgers and wings.

Multiple UNESCO Sites to See

Mexican tourism isn’t limited to just Cancun or Puerto Vallarta. More than 100 other sites in Mexico are recognized by UNESCO for their historic and cultural value—that includes 10 that are situated near Merida. That means you can be sure you’ll have plenty of things to do while visiting if you decide on a trip here.

Merida Accommodations

If you’re planning a vacation and want value for your money, consider staying in an Airbnb. More and more visitors are booking these unique accommodations because they provide a true home-away-from-home experience in exciting locales around the world. In many cases, guests can save thousands of dollars on their accommodations compared to staying at a hotel. And with more than two million listings in 34,000 cities worldwide—including homes and apartments—the variety is virtually endless.

The Best Coffee in Mexico is Grown Here

Yucatan’s fertile soil and close proximity to a water source allow for optimal growing conditions. And since freshness is everything in coffee, it makes sense that growers in Yucatan deliver their product as quickly as possible after harvesting. What does that mean for you? It means these beans are delicious! Just imagine: sipping on a delicious cup of coffee from beans picked mere hours before. Try it and taste why Yucatán has been called one of Earth’s best climates for growing coffee!

How to get to Merida

If you find yourself near Mérida you will most likely be arriving in Progreso as this is the most common cruise stop. You can easily get to Mérida from Progreso by taking the AutoProgreso. This is a bus that arrives every 10 minutes from Progreso and takes passengers to the center of Mérida. You can easily walk to the bus terminal from the pier as it is close by.

Top Places to Visit in Merida

There are so many beautiful sites to visit in the area as the culture is so rich. The ancient sites by themself are astonishing, but you will also find awesome museums, unique architecture, and a wondrous energy in the atmosphere of this town as there is so much to explore. Here are some of the top places to visit.

  • Palacio Canton – This is a beautifully museum celebrating the region’s cultural history.
  • Dzibilchaltun – Check out this Mayan archaeological site & museum.
  • Mayan World Museum of Mérida – This is a wonderful museum that offers Mayan art & history.
  • Parque Zoológico del Centenario – If you get a chance, visit this unique zoos that offers exhibits of hippos, birds, tigers, giraffes, and more!
  • Plaza Grande – Visit this unique park. You will find music & awesome events.
  • Chichen Itza – this Mayan archaeological site is quite a ways away. It’s still closer to Merida than other cruise ports.