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Mérida was built more than 450 years ago on the site of T'ho, an ancient Mayan city, and is the social and economic center, as well as the capital, of the Yucatán state.
It is also known as the "White City" because of the large use of white limestone and white paint in its old center. It is an ever-expanding sprawling, bustling city of about one million but it retains its traditions and has a rich cultural life which is reflected in its diversity and many free concerts, performances and other events which are held daily. Despite its modernity Mérida has also managed to retain its colonial charm in its small historic center which though under constant restoration has a laid-back tempo that is charming and a great place to experience Mexican culture. You can admire the cathedral, old mansions and elegant buildings built in the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries, which are now used as public office buildings, museums and hotels. Its downtown area features a large, tree-shaded central square with a market and numerous small shops surrounding it.
Jarana is the principal dance in Mexico's Yucatán state — an illustration of the fusion of old and new world culture it enchants viewers with the elegance of its steps. The music is typically provided by a jarana orchestra comprised of two clarinets, two trombones, kettledrums and güiro. If you are in the city on a Sunday half the main avenue is shut to become pedestrianized and there is often music and dancing in the street.
Mérida also makes a good base from which to explore the Mayan archaeological sites of Chichén Itzá and Uxmal. Pink flamingo sanctuaries and swimmable crystal-clear cenotes (sinkholes) are some of the natural attractions of the Yucatán Peninsula that are also easily accessible from the city. Please note museums are closed Sunday and Monday.
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Suggested itineraries featuring ²Ñé°ù¾±»å²¹
Our itineraries will give you suggestions for what is possible when you travel in ²Ñé°ù¾±»å²¹, and they showcase routes we know work particularly well. Treat them as inspiration, because your trip will be created uniquely by one of our specialists.
Places near ²Ñé°ù¾±»å²¹
- Uxmal 70 kilometers away
- °²¹²úá³ó 81 kilometers away
- Chichén Itzá 114 kilometers away
- Yucatán Peninsula 161 kilometers away
- °ä´Ç²úá 204 kilometers away
- Tulum 243 kilometers away
- Isla Holbox 257 kilometers away
- The Mayan Riviera 268 kilometers away
- Playa del Carmen 268 kilometers away
- Cancun 289 kilometers away
- Isla Mujeres 301 kilometers away
- Palenque 459 kilometers away
- Yaxchilan 475 kilometers away
Photos of ²Ñé°ù¾±»å²¹
Our expert guides to exploring ²Ñé°ù¾±»å²¹
Written by our specialists from their own experiences of visiting ²Ñé°ù¾±»å²¹, these guides will help you make the most of your time there. We share both our practical recommendations and the best ways to appreciate ²Ñé°ù¾±»å²¹ at its best.
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A first timer's guide to Chichén Itzá A first timer's guide to Chichén Itzá
A first timer's guide to Chichén Itzá
An ancient Mayan capital and the most famous of all the archaeological sites on the Yucatán Peninsula, Chichén Itzá is not to be missed on a trip to Mexico.
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Family vacations in Mexico Family vacations in Mexico
Family vacations in Mexico
Audley travel specialist Anna shares her tips for where to go and what to do on a Mexico family vacation. Focusing on the Yucatán Peninsula, she explains how you can combine beach time with wildlife watching and visiting ancient ruins.
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What to do in Mexico: our highlights guide What to do in Mexico: our highlights guide
What to do in Mexico: our highlights guide
Mexico’s character is many-sided. From cosmopolitan colonial cities and vibrant markets to mountain wilderness, sleepy Caribbean islands, vast cacti-covered deserts and a wealth of intriguing ancient ruins, specialist Carolyn shares her highlights.
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Accommodation choices for ²Ñé°ù¾±»å²¹
We've selected a range of accommodation options for when you visit ²Ñé°ù¾±»å²¹. Our choices usually come recommended for their character, facilities and service or location. Our specialists always aim to suggest properties that match your preferences.
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Casa Lecanda
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Hotel Hacienda ²Ñé°ù¾±»å²¹
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Künük Hotel
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Ideas for experiencing ²Ñé°ù¾±»å²¹
Our specialists seek out authentic ways to get to know the places that could feature in your trip. These activities reflect some of the experiences they've most enjoyed while visiting ²Ñé°ù¾±»å²¹, and which use the best local guides.
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Mérida City Tour ²Ñé°ù¾±»å²¹ City Tour
²Ñé°ù¾±»å²¹ City Tour
The "White City" title that ²Ñé°ù¾±»å²¹ has derives from the stately homes and mansions that adorn the sides of Paseo Montejo, about 10 blocks north of the center, standing opulently in gleaming white stone.
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