A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Merida vs. Orlando for Families, Food, Nightlife, and Backpackers

Should you visit Merida or Orlando?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Merida or Orlando, 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. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food. See Merida travel costs.

Orlando

Orlando is a active, family-friendly, and entertaining city. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and theater. See Orlando travel costs.

Merida and Orlando: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Merida or Orlando?

You'll generally find more things to do in Merida than Orlando. Merida is bigger than Orlando, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Merida is better known for its museums and attractions, nightlife, historical sights, and big city activities, while Orlando is more popular for its theatre productions and resorts. Orlando is more touristy than Merida and is known for being the home of Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and many other theme parks and family-friendly activities. Merida is well known for its vibrant plazas, long running history, and colonial architecture. Also, Merida is famous for Grand Plaza.

How is Merida different from Orlando?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Merida is great for its historical sights. However, Orlando does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Orlando does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Merida or Orlando Better for Theater?

Orlando is a nice place to visit for its shows and theatre. However, Merida is not a theatre destination.

You'll find a nice selection of shows in Orlando. The city has a number of local theaters that are fun to explore. As home to Disney World and Universal Studios, there are also a number of shows available that are affiliated with the parks.

Merida is not a theatre destination.

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

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Merida and Orlando.

Merida has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. 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).

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Orlando makes for a great culinary experience. There are a diversity of restaurants on the Disney grounds and nearby. You'll also find many restaurants at Universal CityWalk and Disney Springs. Food can be expensive, and the quality can vary dramatically. Many people enjoy going to dinner shows as well. Restaurants can be challenging also, as reservations must be made months in advance.

Is Merida or Orlando Better for Nightlife?

Merida is great for nightlife. Also, Orlando is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

Many people head to Merida for the nightlife scene. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Orlando. If you need a break from the kids, you'll find some of the best nightlife around Orlando at Disney Springs, Wall Street Plaza and Universal CityWalk.

Is Merida or Orlando Better for Resorts?

Orlando is terrific for its luxury resorts. However, Merida is not a resort destination.

Orlando offers an unforgettable resort vacation. Disney World is famous for its many iconic resorts. Some of the most popular are the Animal Kingdom Lodge, Port Orleans Resort, and the Grand Floridian Resort. There are also many resorts that aren't affiliated with the major theme parks. These tend to be more affordable, but transportation options to and from the park are limited. You'll also miss out on the perks that come with staying at a theme park resort.

Merida is not a resort destination.

Is Merida or Orlando Better for its Old Town?

Merida is great for its historic old town. However, Orlando does not have a historic 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.

Orlando does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Merida or Orlando?

Shoppers can find a variety of very good stores in both Merida and Orlando.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Merida. 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.

Orlando is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Shopping is a dream for any Disney enthusiast. There are countless malls and shops, both on and off the Disney grounds, that sell all of the Disney paraphernalia. Disney Springs and Universal CityWalk are the most famous areas. During the evenings, these areas can be very crowded, but during the day they're less popular as most people are at the theme parks.

Is Merida or Orlando Better for Families?

Orlando is terrific for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Merida is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Orlando is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. Known as a theme park capital, here you'll find the iconic Disney World, as well as Universal Studios, SeaWorld and many more. While most people spend their vacation at the Disney or Universal resorts, there is also an endless supply of less mainstream parks and activities in the area.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Merida. 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.

Is Merida or Orlando Better for Couples?

Merida and Orlando are both notable to visit as a couple.

Merida is a good city for couples to visit. 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.

Orlando is a nice destination for couples. While most people visit the area with family, there is a niche crowd that enjoys honeymooning or vacationing here as a couple. There are many beautiful restaurants and interesting activities that couples can enjoy together. This is the perfect trip for fun loving couples who don't take themselves to seriously.

Is Merida or Orlando Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Merida is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Orlando is not a good destination for backpackers.

Merida is very popular with the backpacker crowd. 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.

Orlando is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not exactly a backpacker destination, but there are a surprising number of cheap motels that aren't affiliated with the major parks.

Is Merida or Orlando Better for Students?

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

Plenty of students visit Orlando. Most people don't think about education when they think about Orlando, but there are actually a diversity of internships and opportunities for students to learn in a fun setting.

Merida is not popular with students.

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

Merida is a popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Orlando is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Merida offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. While there are local bus routes, they can be a bit challenging to figure out when you first arrive.

Public transit is generally limited in Orlando. If you're staying at a Disney Property, there is excellent transportation around the complex, but otherwise, a car is essential.

Is Merida or Orlando a more walkable city?

Merida is great for its walkability. However, Orlando is not a good destination for its high level of walkability.

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

Orlando is not a walkable city. The city is sprawling, so unless you stay on the Disney grounds, it's best to rent a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Orlando or Merida?

How long in Merida or Orlando?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Merida than Orlando. 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 Orlando 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 Orlando?

In Merida, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Many travelers enjoy the theater and nightlife when visiting the destination of Orlando. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Merida or Orlando?

In Merida, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Merida has to offer.

Orlando 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 Orlando?

Merida is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Orlando. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Orlando?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Merida. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Merida. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and theater when visiting the family-friendly destination of Orlando. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. 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 Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Merida or Orlando?

Merida has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Orlando. When comparing the sizes of Merida and Orlando, 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 Orlando?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Merida or Orlando in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Merida and Orlando. Many visitors come to Merida in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Orlando for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Merida is cooler than Orlando. Typically, the summer temperatures in Merida in July average around 21°C (70°F), and Orlando averages at about 82°F (28°C).

Orlando receives a lot of rain in the summer. In July, Merida usually receives less rain than Orlando. Merida gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Orlando receives 8.3 inches (211 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Merida or Orlando in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Merida as well as Orlando. Most visitors come to Merida for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Orlando because of the shopping scene.

In October, Merida is generally cooler than Orlando. Daily temperatures in Merida average around 21°C (70°F), and Orlando fluctuates around 75°F (24°C).

It's quite rainy in Orlando. Merida receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Merida usually gets more rain in October than Orlando. Merida gets 210 mm (8.3 in) of rain, while Orlando receives 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Merida or Orlando in the Winter?

Both Orlando and Merida are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Merida because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to Orlando this time of year.

Merida is a little warmer than Orlando in the winter. The daily temperature in Merida averages around 20°C (68°F) in January, and Orlando fluctuates around 59°F (15°C).

In January, Merida usually receives less rain than Orlando. Merida gets 20 mm (0.8 in) of rain, while Orlando receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Merida or Orlando in the Spring?

Both Orlando and Merida during the spring are popular places to visit. The activities around the city are the main draw to Merida this time of year.

In the spring, Merida is around the same temperature as Orlando. Typically, the spring temperatures in Merida in April average around 21°C (70°F), and Orlando averages at about 72°F (22°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Merida. Merida usually gets more rain in April than Orlando. Merida gets 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain, while Orlando receives 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Orlando and Merida