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

Should you visit Merida or Lewisburg?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Merida or Lewisburg, 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 colonial, historical, and traditional city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Lewisburg

Lewisburg is a historical, quaint, and charming town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. It's also popular because of the shopping and museums.

Merida and Lewisburg: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Merida or Lewisburg?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Merida than Lewisburg, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Merida is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Lewisburg is more popular for its small town charm. Merida is more touristy than Lewisburg and is popular for its vibrant plazas, long running history, and colonial architecture. Also, Merida is famous for Grand Plaza. Lewisburg is well known for its historical charm and friendly personality.

How is Merida different from Lewisburg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Lewisburg 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 Lewisburg?

Merida
Lewisburg

Merida is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Lewisburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Merida offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

Lewisburg offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are several cultural and historical museums in town as well as a fun children's museum.


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

Merida
Lewisburg

Merida is well known for its restaurant scene. However, Lewisburg is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

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).

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Lewisburg. There are bistros and cafes as well as all the standard chain restaurants.

Is Merida or Lewisburg Better for Nightlife?

Merida
Lewisburg

Merida is well known for nightlife. However, Lewisburg is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

Merida is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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.

Lewisburg doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. While there are some bars, most people don't come here for the nightlife.

Is Merida or Lewisburg Better for its Old Town?

Merida
Lewisburg

Merida is well known for its historic old town. Also, Lewisburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Merida. 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Lewisburg. There are a huge number of historical buildings in the downtown area that contribute to the town's charm and character.


Is the Shopping Better in Merida or Lewisburg?

Merida
Lewisburg

Merida is well known for shopping. Also, Lewisburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Lewisburg. There are some quaint local shops that sell local items and unique art works.

Is Merida or Lewisburg Better for Families?

Merida
Lewisburg

Merida and Lewisburg are both notable 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 Lewisburg. The Lewisburg Children's Museum is worth checking out, as is Reptiland and the many different indoor and outdoor play areas.

Is Merida or Lewisburg Better for Couples?

Merida
Lewisburg

Merida is a popular place for romance. However, Lewisburg is not particularly known for its romantic activities.

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.

Most people don't think of Lewisburg as a couple's destination. There are several quaint inns and beautiful gardens that you can explore. There are also spas and restaurants where you can enjoy a nice meal.


Is Merida or Lewisburg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Merida
Lewisburg

Merida is well known for backpackers. However, Lewisburg is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Merida. 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.

Lewisburg is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not really on the radar for most backpackers.

Is Merida or Lewisburg Better for Students?

Merida
Lewisburg

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

Plenty of students visit Lewisburg. Many students enjoy living here while they attend Bucknell University.

Merida is not popular with students.

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

Merida
Lewisburg

Merida is a popular place for its public transit. However, Lewisburg is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Merida, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. 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 Lewisburg. Public transportation in the area is limited.


Is Merida or Lewisburg a more walkable city?

Merida
Lewisburg

Merida is well known for its walkability. Also, Lewisburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

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

Lewisburg is a somewhat walkable place. It's small with a relatively compact downtown.

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

Should I spend more time in Lewisburg or Merida?

How long in Merida or Lewisburg?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Merida or Lewisburg to fill your time. In our opinion, Merida has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Merida than Lewisburg. However, 1-2 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Merida than Lewisburg 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.


  • How many days in Merida or Lewisburg? Ideal Length of Stay
    Merida 1-2 
    Lewisburg 1-2

One day in Merida or Lewisburg?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Merida. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Merida has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and shopping when visiting the destination of Lewisburg. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Merida or Lewisburg?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the colonial destination of Merida. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Lewisburg 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 Lewisburg?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the traditional city of Merida. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lewisburg. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Merida or Lewisburg?

Merida is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the quaint destination of Lewisburg. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Cancun, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Mexico, The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America, and The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Lewisburg or Merida?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Merida is $88, while the average daily cost in Lewisburg is $136. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Merida and Lewisburg in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Merida $44
    Lewisburg $70
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Merida $88
    Lewisburg $140
Compare Hotels in Merida and Lewisburg

Looking for a hotel in Merida or Lewisburg? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Merida


Hotels in Lewisburg


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Merida Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Merida $18
    Lewisburg $53

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Merida

Also for Merida, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Merida hotels to Mérida International Airport (MID) - Private Departure Transfer: $33
  • One-way Airport Transfers to Merida Hotels: $120
  • Mexico Private Transfer from Merida airport to central Merida: $41
  • Mexico Private Transfer from Merida hotels to Merida airport: $41
  • Private Transfer From Uxmal to Merida, English Speaking Driver: $73
  • Private Transfer from Airport to Hotel in Merida One Way: $47
  • Private Transfer from Merida city hotels to Progreso Cruise Port: $61

Is it cheaper to fly into Merida or Lewisburg?

Prices for flights to both Lewisburg and Merida change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Merida $29
    Lewisburg $34

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Merida

For Merida, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Traveling Spoon Yucatecan Sopa de Lima Private Online Cooking Class: $40
  • Private Nandayo Food Tour: $42
  • Merida Walking Food Tour. Authentic & Local Cuisine: $63
  • Taste of the Yucatan: Merida Cooking Class and Market Visit: $89
  • Private Yucatecan Cooking Lesson in a Local Merida Home: $90

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Merida $16
    Lewisburg $18
Typical Entertainment Prices in Merida

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Merida's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Train at the Zoo
    $0.12
  • Uxmal Entrance (for 2)
    $20
  • Mayan Village Entrance (for 2)
    $6.01

Tours and Activities in Merida

For Merida, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Panoramic Sightseeing Tour of Merida: $8.00
  • Mérida Scavenger Hunt and Sights Private Self-Guided Tour: $8.96
  • Walking Tour Across the Historic Center in Merida: $22
  • Walking Tour in the City of Mérida: $22
  • Merida Private Tour on a Budget : $29
  • Mérida Like a Local: Customized Private Tour: $35
  • 3 Hour Tour in The Sotuta de Peón Live Museum: $60
  • Merida Street Food Walking Tour: $65
  • Tour to Uxmal + Choco Story Chocolate Museum: $67
  • 6-hour Guided Tour to Uxmal and Kabah Express: $67
  • Private Walking Tour in City of Merida: $75
  • Day of the Dead Tour & Taco buffet: $80

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Merida $16
    Lewisburg $12


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Merida and Lewisburg, we can see that Lewisburg 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 Lewisburg would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Lewisburg 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 Lewisburg Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Merida or Lewisburg?

Merida has a larger population, and is about 130 times larger than the population of Lewisburg. When comparing the sizes of Merida and Lewisburg, 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 Lewisburg?

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 Lewisburg in the Summer?

Both Lewisburg and Merida during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Merida in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Lewisburg for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Merida is cooler than Lewisburg. Typically, the summer temperatures in Merida in July average around 21°C (70°F), and Lewisburg averages at about 74°F (24°C).

In Lewisburg, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Merida. In the summer, Merida often gets less sunshine than Lewisburg. Merida gets 254 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lewisburg receives 310 hours of full sun.

Lewisburg gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Merida usually gets less rain in July than Lewisburg. Merida gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Lewisburg receives 4 inches (101 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Merida 21°C (70°F) 
    Lewisburg 74°F (24°C)

Should I visit Merida or Lewisburg in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Merida and Lewisburg. Most visitors come to Merida for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Lewisburg because of the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere.

In October, Merida is generally much warmer than Lewisburg. Daily temperatures in Merida average around 21°C (70°F), and Lewisburg fluctuates around 54°F (12°C).

In Merida, it's very sunny this time of the year. Merida usually receives more sunshine than Lewisburg during autumn. Merida gets 233 hours of sunny skies, while Lewisburg receives 194 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Merida gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Merida usually receives more rain than Lewisburg. Merida gets 210 mm (8.3 in) of rain, while Lewisburg receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Merida 21°C (70°F) 
    Lewisburg 54°F (12°C)

Should I visit Merida or Lewisburg in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Merida as well as Lewisburg. The winter months attract visitors to Merida because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Lewisburg this time of year.

It's quite cold in Lewisburg in the winter. Merida is much warmer than Lewisburg in the winter. The daily temperature in Merida averages around 20°C (68°F) in January, and Lewisburg fluctuates around 27°F (-3°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Merida this time of the year. In the winter, Merida often gets more sunshine than Lewisburg. Merida gets 209 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lewisburg receives 153 hours of full sun.

Merida usually gets less rain in January than Lewisburg. Merida gets 20 mm (0.8 in) of rain, while Lewisburg receives 2.5 inches (65 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Merida 20°C (68°F) 
    Lewisburg 27°F (-3°C)

Should I visit Merida or Lewisburg in the Spring?

Both Lewisburg and Merida are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The activities around the city are the main draw to Merida this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Lewisburg for the small town charm.

In the spring, Merida is much warmer than Lewisburg. Typically, the spring temperatures in Merida in April average around 21°C (70°F), and Lewisburg averages at about 51°F (11°C).

It's quite sunny in Lewisburg. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Merida. Merida usually receives more sunshine than Lewisburg during spring. Merida gets 260 hours of sunny skies, while Lewisburg receives 237 hours of full sun in the spring.

It's quite rainy in Merida. In April, Merida usually receives more rain than Lewisburg. Merida gets 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain, while Lewisburg receives 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Merida 21°C (70°F) 
    Lewisburg 51°F (11°C)

Typical Weather for Lewisburg and Merida

Merida Lewisburg
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 20°C (68°F) 20 mm (0.8 in) 27°F (-3°C) 2.5 inches (65 mm)
Feb 20°C (68°F) 50 mm (2 in) 30°F (-1°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm)
Mar 21°C (70°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 40°F (5°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm)
Apr 21°C (70°F) 150 mm (5.9 in) 51°F (11°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
May 22°C (72°F) 190 mm (7.5 in) 62°F (16°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm)
Jun 21°C (70°F) 140 mm (5.5 in) 70°F (21°C) 4.3 inches (110 mm)
Jul 21°C (70°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 74°F (24°C) 4 inches (101 mm)
Aug 21°C (70°F) 130 mm (5.1 in) 73°F (23°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Sep 21°C (70°F) 190 mm (7.5 in) 65°F (19°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Oct 21°C (70°F) 210 mm (8.3 in) 54°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Nov 21°C (70°F) 140 mm (5.5 in) 44°F (7°C) 3.7 inches (95 mm)
Dec 20°C (68°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 33°F (1°C) 3 inches (77 mm)