A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Merida vs. Charleston for Food, Old Town, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Merida or Charleston?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Merida or Charleston, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Merida

Merida is a traditional, colonial, and historical city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Charleston

Charleston is a picturesque, charming, and southern coastal town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and live music.

Merida and Charleston: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Merida or Charleston?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Charleston than Merida. While Merida is larger than Charleston, Charleston has more sights and attractions for tourists. Charleston is very popular for its food, music, resorts, beaches, historical sights, shopping, christmas markets, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Merida attracts visitors for its museums, nightlife, and big city activities. Merida is famous for its vibrant plazas, long running history, and colonial architecture. Charleston is famous for its historic city market, low-country cuisine, Civil War history, and antebellum houses. It is also well known for The Waterfront Park.

How is Merida different from Charleston?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Charleston and Merida. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Merida or Charleston?

Merida is notable for its sights and museums. Also, Charleston is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for its museums and history.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Merida can be an interesting and educational experience. The city is filled with culture and traditional heritage, and there are many museums and architectural landmarks that will educate and inform visitors on the area. Gran Museo del Mundo Maya is a highlight for many visitors. It's also worth visiting Museo Casa Montejo and Museo Palacio Canton. If you want to visit ruins, then the Dzibilchaltun Mayan Ruins are about 45 minutes outside of town.

Charleston is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. This city is famous for its many historic churches and plantations. The plantations are open to visit and will educate you on the city's past, which is heavily involved in slavery. You can also visit Fort Sumter National Monument by boat or take a tour of the USS Yorktown.

Is the Food Better in Merida or Charleston? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Charleston is terrific for its restaurants. Also, Merida is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Charleston is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. Food lovers will enjoy the city's low country classics. There are many local restaurants in town that serve southern specialties. You can also head a bit out of the town center if you want a waterfront restaurant. Local favorites include she-crab soup, shrimp and grits, cornbread, and fried green tomatoes.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Merida makes for a great culinary experience. It's a top foodie destination in the Yucatan region and visitors will enjoy the many local restaurants and diverse local dishes that are influenced by the Mayan, Spanish, and Caribbean cultures. The most well known local dish is cochinita pibil, which is marinated pork shoulder. Other popular dishes include sopa de lima (lime soup), papadzules (enchiladas with pumpkin seed sauce), and relleno negro (a local stew).

Is Merida or Charleston Better for Nightlife?

Merida is notable for its evening party scene. Also, Charleston is not as famous, but is still a good coastal town to visit for nightlife.

Merida has plenty to do after the sun goes down. Most tourists take advantage of the nightlife scene in the city's downtown area, while locals congregate in the northern part of town. The city has bars, theaters, night clubs, and live music that keeps the energy high late into the night.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Charleston. As a college town, there are plenty of bars and nightclubs around town. There's also a lively music scene. Head to the areas near the college for the most affordable and active nightlife. Popular clubs in town include Cure Night Club, Deco Nightclub, and Mynt.

Is Merida or Charleston Better for Music?

Charleston is a nice place to visit for its music scene. However, Merida is not a live music destination.

The music scene helps keep Charleston active and fun. You can hear a number of local bands or enjoy a more widely known group at larger venues in the area.

Merida is not a live music destination.

Is Merida or Charleston Better for Resorts?

Charleston is a nice place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Merida is not a resort destination.

Charleston has a few great resort options. The town has mostly hotels and bed and breakfasts in the downtown area, but nearby Kiawah Island has a number of nice resorts to choose from. Kiawah Island is particularly kid-friendly if you're looking for a family beach vacation. If you have a bit more money to spend and want something more residential, check out nearby Seabrook Island.

Merida is not a resort destination.

Is Merida or Charleston Better for Beaches?

Charleston is an excellent place to visit for the beach. However, Merida is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Charleston. The area has a number of beautiful and fun nearby beaches including Folly Beach, Kiawah Island, and Seabrook Island. Folly Beach is an active and quirky beach area, while Kiawah is more family-friendly. Seabrook is more residential and more expensive.

Merida is not a beach destination.

Is Merida or Charleston Better for its Old Town?

Charleston is terrific for its historic old town charm. Also, Merida is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its historic old town.

Charleston has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. Charleston's downtown is one of the most charming and well preserved Old Town's in the United States. It's easy to see why it's become a world class destination.

Merida is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. Centered around the city's Grand Plaza, the old town is filled with colonial architecture and colorful buildings. The Catedral de San Ildefonso was the first cathedral built in the Americas. There are also monuments and examples of Mayan art and culture.

Is the Shopping Better in Merida or Charleston?

Charleston is terrific for its shopping areas. Also, Merida is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many people travel to Charleston specifically to go shopping. The city is famous for its historic market in the center of town. Local goods, foods, and crafts are sold daily here. There are also many clothing and local shops throughout town, particularly along King Street, which has boutiques and high end outlets. Outside of town, stop by Tanger Outlet Mall if you want name brands at a discount price.

Merida is an extremely popular place for shoppers. There are colorful markets that are filled with artisan crafts and traditional clothing. Visitors enjoy discovering the unique vendors and picking up souvenirs that are unique to the area.

Is Merida or Charleston Better for Christmas?

Charleston is an excellent place to visit for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Merida does not offer Christmas activities.

Since it has plenty to do, Charleston is a very popular place to visit during Christmas. During the Christmas season there are a number of festivals, light shows, and even a boat parade that everyone can enjoy.

Merida does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Merida or Charleston Better for Christmas Markets?

Charleston is a nice place to visit for visiting Christmas markets. However, Merida does not offer Christmas markets.

Charleston has Christmas markets worth visiting. Marion Square hosts Christmas Markets on weekends throughout the holiday season.

Merida does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Merida or Charleston Better for Families?

Merida and Charleston are both nice destinations for the whole family.

Merida is a family-friendly city. The weekend is the best time to visit the city, as this is when there are the most activities. There are live performances that educate visitors on Mayan traditions. There are also historic museums, bike-friendly streets, and a vibrant central market.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Charleston. The city has a number of family-friendly activities like carriage rides and boat rides. There's also an aquarium, a waterfront park, and many kid-friendly museums. The nearby beaches also make it a wonderful place to visit with kids.

Is Merida or Charleston Better for Couples?

Charleston is terrific for couples. Also, Merida is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Charleston has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. This beautiful city is one of the most popular wedding destinations in America. It's a very romantic setting with beautiful hotels and bed and breakfasts that are perfect for couples on their honeymoon or looking for a romantic setting.

Merida is a nice destination for couples. If you're interested in Mayan culture and history, then this is a wonderful destination. There are also romantic hotels, excellent restaurants, and plenty of fascinating activities that couples will enjoy.

Is Merida or Charleston Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Merida is notable for backpackers. However, Charleston is a mediocre coastal town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Merida is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. It's a relatively large city with a number of hostels and budget hotels, so backpackers will have no problem finding a place to stay.

Charleston is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Hotels in the old town tend to be pricey and there isn't the backpacker community that you find in many other destinations. Still, there are a couple of hostels.

Is Merida or Charleston Better for Students?

Charleston is a nice place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Merida is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Charleston. The city is a college town with a young vibe that is perfect for students. There's a nice university area where you'll find cheaper places to eat and a good nightlife scene.

Merida is not popular with students.

Is Merida or Charleston Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Merida is a nice place to visit for its public transit. However, Charleston is a mediocre coastal town for times when you don't have a car.

Merida has a few public transit options. While there are local bus routes, they can be a bit challenging to figure out when you first arrive.

Public transit is mostly limited in Charleston. While there are some buses, you really must have a car to fully experience the entire area.

Is Merida or Charleston a more walkable city?

Merida and Charleston are superb when it comes to walkability.

Merida is a very walkable destination. It's a very walkable city and most visitors don't have a car.

Charleston is very walkable. The downtown area is very walkable, but once you leave the historic heart, it's best to have a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Merida Worth Visiting? and Is Charleston Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Charleston or Merida?

How long in Merida or Charleston?

Both Merida and Charleston have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Charleston than in Merida. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Merida, and 2-7 days is enough time in Charleston.

Families should spend more time in Charleston than Merida. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Charleston, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Charleston than Merida. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Charleston that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Merida than Charleston if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Merida.

One day in Merida or Charleston?

With museums and nightlife around the traditional city of Merida, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Merida, one day is sufficent for most.

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the quaint destination of Charleston. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Merida or Charleston?

With nightlife and food around the destination of Merida, there's plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Charleston is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Merida or Charleston?

Merida, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Charleston. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Merida or Charleston?

Merida is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the historic destination of Charleston. This coastal town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Cancun, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Mexico, The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Merida and Charleston, we can see that Charleston is more expensive. And not only is Merida much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Merida would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Merida and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Charleston would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Charleston than you might in Merida.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Merida Expensive? and Is Charleston Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Merida or Charleston?

Merida has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Charleston. When comparing the sizes of Merida and Charleston, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Merida or Charleston?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Merida or Charleston in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Merida as well as Charleston. The summer months attract visitors to Merida because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, the beaches, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Charleston this time of year.

Merida is cooler than Charleston in the summer. The daily temperature in Merida averages around 21°C (70°F) in July, and Charleston fluctuates around 82°F (28°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Charleston. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Merida this time of the year. In the summer, Merida often gets less sunshine than Charleston. Merida gets 254 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Charleston receives 293 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Charleston. Merida usually gets less rain in July than Charleston. Merida gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Charleston receives 6.9 inches (176 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Merida or Charleston in the Autumn?

Both Charleston and Merida are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Merida this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Charleston for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Merida is around the same temperature as Charleston. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Merida in October average around 21°C (70°F), and Charleston averages at about 67°F (19°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Merida. Merida usually receives more sunshine than Charleston during autumn. Merida gets 233 hours of sunny skies, while Charleston receives 197 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Merida. In October, Merida usually receives more rain than Charleston. Merida gets 210 mm (8.3 in) of rain, while Charleston receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Merida or Charleston in the Winter?

Both Charleston and Merida during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Merida for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Charleston in the winter for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Merida is generally much warmer than Charleston. Daily temperatures in Merida average around 20°C (68°F), and Charleston fluctuates around 47°F (9°C).

It's quite sunny in Merida. In the winter, Merida often gets more sunshine than Charleston. Merida gets 209 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Charleston receives 188 hours of full sun.

Merida usually gets less rain in January than Charleston. Merida gets 20 mm (0.8 in) of rain, while Charleston receives 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Merida or Charleston in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Merida and Charleston. Many visitors come to Merida in the spring for the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Charleston for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

Merida is a little warmer than Charleston in the spring. The daily temperature in Merida averages around 21°C (70°F) in April, and Charleston fluctuates around 64°F (18°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Charleston this time of the year. In Merida, it's very sunny this time of the year. Merida usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Charleston during spring. Merida gets 260 hours of sunny skies, while Charleston receives 275 hours of full sun in the spring.

Merida gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Merida usually receives more rain than Charleston. Merida gets 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain, while Charleston receives 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Charleston and Merida