Mérida Centro
Plaza Grande
Plaza Grande, is the city’s oldest square and in the heart of the historic center. From Lonely Planet: “One of the nicest plazas in Mexico, huge laurel trees shade the park’s benches and wide sidewalks. It was the religious and social center of ancient T’ho; under the Spanish it was the Plaza de Armas, the parade ground, laid out by Francisco de Montejo (the Younger). A ceremony is held daily marking the raising and lowering of the Mexican flag.”
You will find here the San Idelfonso Cathedral, Macay Museum, restaurants, vendors and different cultural events on various nights. For the latest in events check the governments’ cultural website.
Parque Santa Lucia
Parque Santa Lucia, in the beautiful neighborhood of the same name, is filled with incredible restaurants with outdoor seating. This park has become famous for it’s weekly “Serenata Yucateca”, a free event of traditional musicians, singers and dancers “mestizos”, decked out in their colorful costumes. Go early for dinner, get a good seat outdoors and enjoy a piece of Yucatec history.
Los Dos Cooking School
Set in a beautifully restored colonial house, Los Dos is a fantastic way to spend a day. You learn directly with Chef Mario Canul in his own kitchen. Each class at Los Dos begins with coffee and pastries and ends with a fabulous meal that you prepare together. In between, you’ll learn fascinating background information on the importance of the Maya in the development of Mexican cuisine. You’ll tour the sprawling and colorful Mérida market and in the cooking class, you will experience first-hand the many exotic ingredients of Yucatec cuisine.
Mercado Lucas de Gálvez
Mercado Municipal on Calle 65 x 56 is where all the villagers come to trade beginning at 5am. There are great, authentic fast-food stands here. This market has been featured on Netflix documentaries for its cheap, delicious eats and varied shopping. Find a juice stand and try all the exotic fruit shakes or grab a seat at a taco vendor and sample different varieties for an inexpensive lunch.
Shopping
Shopping is varied and endless in Merida. Walk around centro and peek into the many shops, boutiques, artisan craft stores and don’t forget the street vendors and markets. Feel free to bargain a bit with vendors and in markets - they will expect it! Casa Th’o, a design ‘concept house’ set in a 19th century mansion is incredible for high-end, Mexican-made dresses, jewelry and home decor.
Bus Tours
Turibus, the double-decker sightseeing bus may seem very ‘touristy’ but it’s very informative and will give you a solid overview of the city’s layout from the comfort of your seat. It’s the perfect way to see the history and mansions of Paseo Montejo, downtown neighborhoods, and park locations.