Some of the must-see attractions in Mérida include the Mérida Cathedral, one of the oldest cathedrals in America. Don’t miss the historic Plaza Grande, Paseo de Montejo, a 6-kilometer avenue lined with grand mansions, and Museo Casa Montejo, the former residence of a Spanish conquistador that has been converted into a museum. Delve into Mayan history at the Gran Museo del Mundo Maya, which houses over 1,000 artifacts, including artworks and historical documents.

The best time to visit Mérida is during the dry season, from November to March, when the weather is cooler and less humid. This period also coincides with many cultural events, such as Mérida Fest in January and Mérida Carnival in February. Make sure to book your accommodation early if you’re planning to visit during these months since it’s Mérida’s peak season.

Make sure to try Yucatecan dishes like cochinita pibil (slow-roasted pork), sopa de lima (lime soup), and panuchos (tortillas with black bean stuffing). Yucatán is also famous for xtabentún, a liqueur made from fermented honey that has a sweet flavor. For an authentic experience, visit local markets like Mercado Lucas de Galvéz and Mercado de Santa Ana to find these Yucatecan specialties.

To get from Cancún to Mérida, which is 300 km away, you can take the Tren Maya train or a bus for about 4 hours. You can also fly from Cancún International Airport to Mérida International Airport, which takes about 1 hour and 25 minutes. Alternatively, you can rent a car for more flexibility.

When in Merida, consider taking day trips to the ancient Mayan ruins of Uxmal and Chichen Itza. Another popular excursion is Homún, a village offering stunning cenotes (deep natural wells) that you can swim in. If you want to spend a day relaxing at the beach, head to the coastal city of Progreso, which is less than an hour's drive from Merida.