Things to do in Merida

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Roman Theatre and Amphitheatre

Merida Attractions

You'll soon learn why travelers love staying in Merida. Whatever your interests, there are countless experiences and sights to throw yourself into. Book your hotel and flights, pack your suitcase and prepare to make the most of this enthralling metropolis.

If you're ready to hit the streets of Merida, join one of the top tours & day trips on offer, and have a local expert show you some of the most popular landmarks. Offering free cancellations and no added fees, our top {13 fun activities in Merida fun activities in Merida} are also worth checking out.


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Merida must see attractions

1. Roman Theatre

When Mérida’s first citizens wanted to be entertained, one of the places they headed was the Roman Theatre. The venue was inaugurated around 15 B.C. and could accommodate up to 6,000 spectators. Allow at least half an hour for a self-guided tour of the well-preserved site. For many centuries, it lay buried underground, until excavations started in 1910.
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Roman Theatre and Amphitheatre

2. Puente Romano

More than 2,000 years after its construction, the Puente Romano is still in use. Cross the Guadiana River on this ancient bridge. This was one of the first Roman structures to be built in Mérida and it is one of the longest Roman bridges surviving in the modern world.
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Puente Romano

3. Temple of Diana

The Temple of Diana was a sacred place of worship dedicated to the Roman imperial cult, which regarded emperors and some members of their families as gods. The granite structure was built in the 1st century and would have been part of the forum, where the city’s most important buildings were located. Look up in awe at this ancient structure.
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Temple of Diana

4. Plaza de Espana

The Plaza de España has been a central feature of life in Mérida since medieval times. Over the years, it has hosted bullfights, festivals, markets, games, processions and executions. Today, come to the pretty square for a stroll and some relaxation as you watch passersby enjoying sunny days.
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Plaza de Espana

5. National Museum of Roman Art

The National Museum of Roman Art is housed inside an impressive-looking building that recreates the grandeur of ancient Roman structures. Within the exhibition halls and galleries, see ceramics, sculptures, tombstones, mosaics and paintings from Mérida’s period as a Roman colony.
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Museo Nacional de Arte Romano

6. Alcazaba

When Mérida's 9th-century Muslim rulers wanted to protect themselves from local uprisings and revolts, they built the magnificent Alcazaba. See this impressive Arab fortification with its thick walls and 25 towers. While the remaining walls clearly define the overall structure, note that much of the original interior has not survived.
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Alcazaba

7. Acueducto de los Milagros

Visit the Acueducto de los Milagros, constructed about 2,000 years ago to supply water to the Roman colony of Emerita Augusta, now known as Mérida. Like many Roman aqueducts, it was colossal. A small section remains today and is known as the Aqueduct of the Miracles, because of its awe-inspiring appearance.
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Acueducto de los Milagros

8. Arco de Trajano

During Roman times, people would have walked under the Arco de Trajano to access a colossal temple of the imperial cult, the religion that regarded emperors and some of their relatives as gods. The doorway was one of three gateways to the sacred temple, the remains of which are along Holguin Street. It was the central and biggest arch. See the tall structure that has survived to the present day.
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Arco de Trajano

9. Circo Romano

The Circo Romano was an ancient sporting arena, where chariots once raced. Visit the site, considered one of the best-preserved Roman circuses to survive to the present day. It features the remains of stands and entrances as well as an on-site museum.
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Circo Romano

What to do in Merida

Free Things to Do in Merida

Touring on a shoestring budget in Merida? Spend time, not cash, on terrific experiences.

Puente Lusitania - Architecture fans will certainly enjoy admiring the modern design of this local landmark.

Arco de Trajano - If you're eager to explore the region's history through its landmarks, include this one on your must-see list.

Plaza de Espana - Wander down the streets and appreciate the vibe of this favorite local haunt.

Presa Romana De Proserpina - Get out of the fast lane and spend a little time relaxing beside the water.

Temple of Diana - Incorporate a bit of spirituality into your travels by visiting this holy site.

Things to Do in Merida with Kids

There are loads of fun things to do with your kids in and near Merida. Keep everyone happy with our family friendly experiences.


 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Merida? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 


 

Frequently asked questions

What can you do in Merida for free?
You’ll barely have time to dig your wallet out of your pocket with so many terrific free attractions:

  • Acueducto de los Milagros
  • Temple of Diana
  • Plaza de Espana
  • Puente Lusitania


Discover the most popular places to visit in Merida

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Merida

Puente Romano

Merida Old Town

5/5(20 area reviews)

Historic sites, theaters, and museums highlight some of the noteworthy features of Merida Old Town. Make a stop by Roman Theatre or National Museum of Roman Art while you're exploring the neighborhood.

Merida Old Town
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Bellavista

1/5(1 area review)

You'll appreciate the restaurants during your time in Bellavista and you might want to plan a stop by Puente Romano and Alcazaba while you're in the area.

Bellavista
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Distrito 6

Visitors to Distrito 6 appreciate its restaurants. A visit to Puente Romano and Alcazaba might round out your trip if you're looking to see more of the area.

Distrito 6
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Polígono Industrial El Prado

Polígono Industrial El Prado might not have many top sights, but Puente Romano and Plaza de Espana are two attractions nearby that you can check out.

Polígono Industrial El Prado
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Carcesa

Carcesa might not have many top sights, but Puente Romano and Alcazaba are two attractions nearby that you can check out.

Carcesa
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El Prado

Though El Prado might not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Archaeological area of Moreria and Acueducto de los Milagros.

El Prado

Popular day trips from Merida