Mérida, Yucatán: A Guide to the White City

Mérida is the cultural capital of the Yucatán Peninsula, known as the White City for itspale limestone buildings.

What to see

Plaza Grande: the heart of the city, beside the cathedral and government buildings.

Paseo de Montejo: a grand boulevard lined with mansions.

Museums and markets: including the Gran Museo del Mundo Maya and Lucas deGálvez Market.

Sunday street closures: the center fills with music, food and families.

What to eat

Yucatecan cuisine is distinctive: cochinita pibil, sopa de lima, panuchos, salbutes, poc chuc and refreshing aguas frescas.

Day trips

Uxmal, a magnificent Maya site

Izamal, the yellow town

Celestún, for flamingos and mangroves

Cenotes for swimming

Weather

It is hot and humid for much of the year. The cooler, drier months from November to March are the most comfortable. Plan sightseeing for mornings and evenings.

Travel tip:

Wear light clothing, drink plenty of water and take a siesta like locals do.

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