Merida is a colonial city known for its vibrant plazas, long running history, and colonial architecture. In this travel cost guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to plan your travel budget and have an amazing trip without spending too much. This guide includes average trip costs from previous travelers, typical hotel prices, food and dining costs, entertainment and sightseeing prices, and information about transportation. This will help you plan the best trip to Merida and stay within your ideal travel budget, whether you're exploring the museums, eating the delicious cuisine, or enjoying the nightlife.
How much does it cost to travel to Merida?
You should plan to spend around $88 (MX$1,817) per day on your vacation in Merida. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.
Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:
- $41 (MX$844) on meals
- $15 (MX$305) on local transportation
- $71 (MX$1,479) on hotels
A one week trip to Merida for two people costs, on average, $1,228 (MX$25,438). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.
-
One Week
Per person
$614
MX$12,719
-
2 Weeks
Per person
$1,228
MX$25,438
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One Month
Per person
$2,631
MX$54,510
-
One Week
For a couple
$1,228
MX$25,438
-
2 Weeks
For a couple
$2,456
MX$50,876
-
One Month
For a couple
$5,262
MX$109,020
How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Merida cost?
A one week trip to Merida usually costs around $614 (MX$12,719) for one person and $1,228 (MX$25,438) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
A two week trip to Merida on average costs around $1,228 (MX$25,438) for one person and $2,456 (MX$50,876) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Merida will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.
A one month trip to Merida on average costs around $2,631 (MX$54,510) for one person and $5,262 (MX$109,020) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.
Is Merida expensive to visit?
Merida is a great city that brings in a diverse crowd of visitors, each with unique travel styles and spending behaviors. Visitors can find a range of options for accommodation from high-end luxury hotels to mid-range places to budget-friendly hostels.
You can find Merida to be very expensive if you're not careful, but methods like eating at less expensive restaurants and taking public transit can help you save money.
On average, budget travelers spend $35 (MX$694) per day, mid-range travelers spend $90 (MX$1,817) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $246 (MX$4,937) per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Merida.
Within North America, which is known to be an expensive region, Merida is a very affordable destination compared to other places. It is in the top 10% of cities in North America for its affordability. Very few cities in the region are as affordable as Merida.
For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Merida Expensive?
How much money do I need for a trip to Merida?
The average Merida trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Merida travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Merida cost?
Merida on a Budget
|
Category
|
Budget
|
Mid-Range
|
Luxury
|
Accommodation 1
For 1 person in double occupancy
|
$13
(MX$279)
|
$36
(MX$740)
|
$99
(MX$2,060)
|
|
Local Transportation 1
|
$5
(MX$112)
|
$15
(MX$305)
|
$43
(MX$888)
|
|
Food 2
|
$16
(MX$327)
|
$41
(MX$844)
|
$107
(MX$2,224)
|
|
Entertainment 1
|
$5
(MX$105)
|
$13
(MX$268)
|
$33
(MX$690)
|
|
Alcohol 2
|
$3-8
(MX$52-156)
|
$6-19
(MX$132-397)
|
$16-49
(MX$337-1,011)
|
Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
When planning your trip to Merida, it's important to be realistic about your travel budget. While some people assume they can travel very cheaply, most people aren't comfortable on an extreme shoestring budget. Consider what you enjoy most on vacation and how you like to travel. Do you perfer to stay in resorts, hotels, or hostels? Do you enjoy sightseeing and dining out? These factors will affect your overall budget and travel plans.
What Defines a Budget Traveler?
You might think you're a budget traveler, but unless you're willing to sacrifice many comforts, expect to spend a lot more than the average of $35 per day that backpackers typically manage.
Younger budget travelers sometimes stick to a shoestring budget, which usually means staying in hostel dorms, eating at budget restaurants or fast food, relying on public transportation or walking, and limiting activities to free attractions.
Luckily, there are plenty of hostels in Merida, such as Che Nomadas Merida, Hostik, and Hostal Boutique Casa Garza. Staying at these hostels means you can score affordable dorm lodging and a lively social vibe, but be prepared for basic amenities. The culinary scene is a major highlight for those visiting Merida, but budget travelers often eat street food or cook for themselves in hostels, which can mean missing out on delicious local dishes.
So, are you average?
If you're a family or couple enjoying a vacation, you'll probably want to stay in a mid-range hotel, eat at well-liked restaurants, and check out significant museums and attractions that charge entry fees. It's common for visitors to Merida to seek out the major attractions, museums, and significant landmarks. Most activities aren't free. So, you should realistically expect your daily budget to be around $90 per person, per day.
In Merida, you can find a variety of hotels and vacation rentals. If you're traveling with others, you can share the costs of your hotel with a partner, friend, or children, which can help you save money. Families will want to seek out hotels and restaurants that are kid-friendly. Sercotel Casa de Las Palomas is a great choice for families, and Hotel Merida Santiago is another great option. To discover more family- and couple-oriented hotels, visit our hotel guide for Merida.
Looking to Travel in Luxury?
If your ideal trip includes every luxury and top-tier service, be ready to budget around $246 per day. A stay at nicer hotels, meals at prestigious restaurants, fancy excursions, and getting around the city with taxis or private drivers will cost you more. Many luxury travelers also enjoy unique experiences such as Private Tour Izamal and it's ruins plus Mayan Handcraft Workshop - offered by Viator.
Accommodation Budget in Merida
In Merida, hotel prices can be quite surprising. Higher-end hotels offer more amenities and luxury, but come at a higher price tag, especially during the peak winter season. Off-season prices average around $59, but in peak season, they can average around $110. Prices generally range from $29 to $278, and hostels remain the cheaper option. Booking early or traveling during the low season can save you money, and you might find special deals along the way.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in Merida for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $71 (MX$1,479). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $36 (MX$740) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in Merida? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
The most affordable highest rated hotels in Merida include:
- Sercotel Casa de Las Palomas starting at $119
- Hotel Merida Santiago starting at $217
- Mansion Merida On the Park starting at $208
- Hotel Hacienda Merida VIP starting at $175
- Boutique by The Museo starting at $223
The great public transit system in Merida gives you the option to stay outside the city, but keep in mind that while it may save you on lodging, it could cost more in transit.
Traveling during the shoulder or low season, instead of winter, can save you money on accommodations and spare you the heavy tourist crowds.
Many travelers like to navigate Merida on foot which can save on transportation costs. So, you'll want to stay in a more central location. This could mean higher hotels prices, though.
The city's attractive old town is a popular destination for visitors. Hotels in this area can be expensive, but they frequently have unique character and are conveniently located near everything.
Transportation Budget in Merida
Merida has a public transit system that connects to several key locations. While there are local bus routes, they can be a bit challenging to figure out when you first arrive. Public transport is an affordable and quick choice if it's near where you're going, with taxis and rideshares also available for added convenience.
Visitors who prefer to navigate the area by walking will have a delightful experience. It's a very walkable city and most visitors don't have a car.
Public Transit: 
(good)
Walkability: (great)
Calculated from travelers like you
-
On average, past travelers have spent $15 (MX$305) per person, per day, on local transportation in Merida. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Merida is significantly more than public transportation.
-
Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
$15
MX$305
Be sure your hotel has hassle-free parking if you're planning to drive.
Some of the standard hotel transfers and transport options include:
- Airport Transfer to Merida Hotels Private for $27 details
- Mérida International Airport (MID) to Merida hotels - Arrival Private Transfer for $67 details
- Private Transfer from Airport to Hotel in Merida One Way for $39 details
How much does it cost to go to Merida? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.
The price of renting a car in Merida will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.
Food Budget in Merida
You'll find that the food in Merida is wonderful. Be sure to spend time enjoying all the local flavors. 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).
Calculated from travelers like you
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While restaurant and meal prices in Merida can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Merida is $41 (MX$844) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
-
Food2
Meals for one day
$41
MX$844
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Merida is around $42 (MX$844) per person, with previous travelers spending from $16 to $111. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.
Typical meal prices in Merida are as follows:
- Breakfast: $4 to $13
- Lunch: $6 to $17
- Dinner: $13 to $29
- Coffee: $3
- Fast Food or Street Food: $6
Most of the food in Merida is in the category of Mayan Cuisine. This type of cuisine usually involves corn, turkey, squash, tomatoes, chiles, pork, cheese, and chocolate. A great place to try traditional Yucatán dishes is at Eladios. There are a couple locations for this restaurant, but many say that the one in Progreso in front of the beach is the best. For the best tacos in town, head to Wayan'e. A less traditional choice is Hennessy's Irish Pub, which is popular among locals, expats, and tourists. Another great place to get food in town is at the Mercado Lucas de Galvez that was mentioned above. There are several options of places to eat within this market for traditional, homemade food as well as great treats for dessert. Here are a few more amazing places to eat, too.
Many hotels include breakfast in their pricing structure, while some charge additional fees for it. The quality and cost can vary significantly by hotel. Knowing this in advance can help you decide whether to allocate more money. It might be worth paying for the delicious hotel buffet, or you could go to a local bakery or cafe that's less expensive.
Carry your own water bottle instead of spending on drinks. It's also a positive step for the environment.
While planning your tour, it's essential to know which meals are included. You may find yourself paying for some meals, which can add to your travel budget.
Taking a food tour or cooking class is a great way to experience the culture in Merida. After all, cuisine is one of the reasons why so many people visit. A few of the best culinary activities here include:
- Merida Shore Excursion- Mexican Cooking Class with Port Transfers for $102 details
- Private Market Tour and Authentic Mexican Cooking Class in Merida with Transfers for $150 details
- Wonders of the Mayab: Chichen Itza, Yokdzonot Cenote & Cooking Class for $237 details
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Merida
It's evident that Merida is a hotspot for tourists, largely due to its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, and historical sights.
Calculated from travelers like you
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Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Merida typically cost an average of $13 (MX$268) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.
-
Entertainment1
Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
$13
MX$268
This city is over four hundred years old so there are many historical sights around the city as well as plenty of other activities. You might be surprised at how many things to do in Merida are available, so make a plan. There are also nearby beaches, quaint neighborhoods, and shopping centers. The historic center of town is called Plaza Grande and is surrounded by many historic buildings like the Grand Cathedral, the Museo Macay, and the Casa de Montejo. The latter was the palace of Montejo the Conquistador in 1549 and inside you can find sculptures of Spanish Conquistadors. On the west side of the plaza is the Ayuntamiento, which was once the City Hall. Finally, there is the Governor's Palace where you can find murals that depict the history of Merida.
The Palacio Canton houses the regional archaeology museum (the Museo Regional de Arquaeologia de Yucatán. This building was one of the grandest mansions in Merida and it has many ancient Mayan artworks that are very interesting to see.
The opera house, Teatro Peon Contreras, is another historic building to check out in Merida. It was designed by an Italian architect in 1908 and today is part of Merida's high culture.
Visit the Mercado Lucas de Galvez and San Benito (an indoor market), which is open every day until 6:00 pm. This market has vendors that sell an entire range of things from food to clothing, to pets.
Carnaval de Merida is a lively activity for those visiting the city sometime between mid-February and early March. This carnival is in the top five for the whole country of Mexico. A fun activity to do at night is head to El Gran Museo del Mundo Maya, where there is a nightly light and sound show at 9:00 pm. The museum also has tons of historical, archaeological, and anthropological displays that portray Mayan culture. This city is a great place to explore the beautiful and historic Yucatán Peninsula.
Museums and Attractions:
Merida's museums and landmarks are must-sees for any visitor. 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.
Historical Sights:
The old town's rich history brings in numerous tourists. 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.
Shopping:
Experiencing the shopping here is an opportunity you shouldn't pass by. 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.
Local tours that last a few hours can be a great way to explore Merida. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:
- Mike&Duck Walking Tour Merida for $30 details
- Tour to Uxmal Kabah and Chocolate Museum from Mérida for $85 details
- Private Tour: Archeological Site Of Uxmal and the Chocolate Museum Day Trip for $246 details
Listed below are some typical prices for attractions, activities, and entry fees in Merida, sourced from actual travelers. These costs give you an idea of how much you might spend. However, your personal expenses will depend on the activities you choose, the museums or landmarks you visit, and how frequently you opt for free or low-cost options.
Nightlife Budget in Merida
Visitors to Merida find the nightlife exhilarating, enjoying nights filled with fun at the local bars, clubs, and parties. 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.
Calculated from travelers like you
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The average person spends about $13 (MX$264) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Merida per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.
-
Alcohol2
Drinks for one day
$13
MX$264
Sure, nightlife is part of the adventure, but cutting down on cocktails can make a surprising difference in your travel budget.
While enjoying a night out, remember to stay alert. If you're drinking, you might become an easy target for thieves, so it's best to stay with friends you trust.
Travel cost data last updated: Nov 23, 2024
Traveling in Merida
Diving in a Cenote in Merida, Mexico
Merida is the largest city on the Yucatan Peninsula, which separates the Gulf of Mexico from the Caribbean Sea. It is also the capital of the state of Yucatan as a whole. There is a population of 750,000 and is very rich in diversity and culture.
Neighborhoods & Around
Merida is close to many Mayan ruins and archaeological sites. Dzibilchaltun and Mayapan are close by and are perfect locations for day trips outside Merida. Dzibilchaltun is about an hour from Merida and is known for its famous sculpture, "Temple of the Seven Dolls". There is also a museum that holds ancient Mayan artifacts and a 16th-century ruin of a famous church built by the Spanish.
Mayapan is another nearby Mayan ruin site that is about forty kilometers from Merida. This site was the political capital during the 1200's until the 1400's. Chichen Itza is a much larger ruin site but is located much further away from Merida. If you wish to visit this place, it is best to stay overnight to ensure that you can see everything it has to offer. The main attraction there is the Pyramid of Kukulcan, which was recently voted as one of the new Seven Wonders of the World.
We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.
It's much cheaper here than in other Yucatan places. The restaurants were cheaper for us, and much more authentic too. Our hotel was also so much less than the nearby beach locations. And you can take tours from here to inland locations such as cenotes that are lower in cost than the tours that leave from the beach places.