Mérida Food Tour: Markets and Street Flavors
Active
4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Step into the heart of Mérida through its scents, tastes, and traditions. We’ll walk through lively markets, colorful alleys, and places where history is still simmering. This experience is a love letter to traditional Yucatecan cuisine — vibrant, rich, and deeply rooted in our culture. You’ll eat, walk, sweat, laugh, and fall in love with the flavors that define the real Mérida.
• Visit to iconic markets: Santiago, Lucas de Gálvez, and Handicrafts Market.
• Taste classic dishes like panuchos, salbutes, tortas de lechón, escabeche and more.
• Discover unique local ingredients: axiote, habanero, sour orange, epazote.
• End the tour in a traditional cantina with modern flair.
• Participate in live prep like salsa-making or stove-to-plate tastings.
• Colorful streets, historic plazas, and colonial architecture.
• Expert storytelling from a local host about food, families, and forgotten customs.
Available options
Roots & Flavors: Taste of Old Mérida
Taste of Old Mérida
Mérida Tradicional ESP
Mérida Tradicional en Español
What's included
Alcoholic Beverages
Lunch
Professional Local Guide
All Activities
Food Tasting
Detailed itinerary
1
Visit the lively Santiago Market, a favorite among locals for its authentic food stalls and fresh produce. Here you’ll enjoy tastings of traditional Yucatecan dishes and experience everyday life in Mérida.
2
Step into Mérida’s largest and most traditional market, where vibrant colors, exotic aromas, and bustling vendors create an unforgettable atmosphere. Taste authentic Yucatecan specialties while learning about local traditions and ingredients.
3
Wander through one of Mérida’s most charming neighborhoods, filled with colonial architecture, historic churches, and quiet plazas. Your guide will share stories of the area’s past and how it has become a cultural hub today.
4
Stop 4
Discover the heart of Mérida at Plaza Grande, surrounded by iconic landmarks such as the Cathedral of San Ildefonso and the Government Palace. Feel the pulse of the city while enjoying local life, music, and traditions.
5
Explore the iconic craft market in Mérida and taste a gem only locals know.
What's not included
Gratuities
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Written guide
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
5.0
25 reviews
5★
24
4★
1
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Children must be accompanied by an adult
Minimum drinking age is 18 years
Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking
Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
Vegetarian and vegan options are available, please advise at time of booking if required
Important notes
• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended
• Due to the nature of this tour and the safety of all guests, the tour operator reserves the right to refuse service to passengers who are intoxicated or show signs of intoxication. If, as a result, your tour is canceled, you will not be entitled to a refund.
• Important: Dietary restrictions and full names of all participants must be provided before the tour day. Please get in touch with the local tour operator if you didn't provide these details upon booking.
About Merida, Riviera Maya & the Yucatan
Merida, Riviera Maya & the Yucatan offer a rich blend of ancient Mayan culture, stunning beaches, and vibrant colonial cities. This region is a paradise for history buffs, nature lovers, and those seeking relaxation in tropical settings.
Top Attractions
Chichen Itza
One of the New Seven Wonders of the World, this ancient Mayan city features the iconic El Castillo pyramid.
Historical
Half to full day
Moderate (around 500 MXN for entrance)
Uxmal
A stunning example of Puuc architecture, Uxmal is another significant Mayan archaeological site.
Historical
Half day
Moderate (around 350 MXN for entrance)
Celestún
A beautiful coastal village known for its flamingo-filled lagoons and pristine beaches.
Nature
Full day
Budget to moderate (boat tours around 500 MXN)
Riviera Maya
A stretch of Caribbean coastline known for its turquoise waters, white sand beaches, and vibrant nightlife.
Beach
Overnight or multi-day trip
Variable (budget to luxury options available)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Cochinita Pibil
Slow-roasted pork marinated in achiote and sour orange, wrapped in banana leaves.
Main Dish
Contains pork
Panuchos
Fried tortillas filled with refried beans and topped with shredded chicken, pickled onions, and avocado.
Appetizer
Vegetarian options available
Sopa de Lima
A tangy and comforting soup made with lime, chicken, and tortilla strips.
Soup
Contains chicken
Popular Activities
Cenote diving
Jungle trekking
Zip-lining
Beach lounging
Spa treatments
Yoga retreats
Visiting archaeological sites
Attending local festivals
Best Time to Visit
November to April
This is the dry season with pleasant weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring archaeological sites.
22-28°C
72-82°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Spanish
- Widely spoken: English (in tourist areas)
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere
Currency
Mexican Peso (MXN)
Time Zone
Eastern Standard Time (EST) (UTC-5)
Electricity
127VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Merida and the Yucatan are generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates compared to other parts of Mexico. However, standard precautions should be taken to ensure a safe trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Use official taxis or ride-hailing apps
- • Keep valuables secure in crowded areas
- • Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help or services
Getting there
By air
- Manuel Crescencio Rejón International Airport • 10 km from Merida city center
- Cancún International Airport • 300 km from Merida
By bus
Terminal de Autobuses de Mérida
Getting around
Public transport
Affordable and efficient, combís are small vans that follow fixed routes.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Didi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Centro Histórico
Colonia García Ginerés
Altabrisa
Day trips
Valladolid
150 km from Merida • Full day
A charming colonial town with a rich history and beautiful architecture.
Izamal
70 km from Merida • Half day
A picturesque town known for its yellow buildings and significant archaeological sites.
Cenotes Route
Varies, typically 30-60 km from Merida • Full day
A series of stunning cenotes (natural sinkholes) perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and diving.
Festivals
Festival de la Ciudad • January
Hanal Pixán • November 1-2
Pro tips
- Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to enhance your experience and interact with locals
- Visit cenotes early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures
- Explore the region's lesser-known archaeological sites for a more authentic experience
- Try local street food for an affordable and delicious culinary adventure
- Book tours and accommodations in advance during peak season (November to April)
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
