Private car transfer from Tulum to Merida

Your trip from Tulum to Merida will be filled with diverse landscapes, small villages, little handmade craft shops, historical places, and wonders. Yes, real wonders, because as you make your way from Tulum to Merida, you will encounter one of the 7 wonders of the world, the majestic Chichen Itza.

The best way to not miss the stop-worthy views and attractions that unfold along your way is by securing a safe and comfortable car service. Your Daytrip local driver will be happy to pick you up in Tulum and stop at your personalized landmarks as you approach the colonial city of Merida. Daytrip’s car service will make your magical trip to Merida as seamless as possible, letting you enjoy the mesmerizing surroundings as you approach your destination.

A brief history of Merida

The charming colonial city we know today is one of the oldest inhabited cities on the continent. Initially, the city was known as T'Hó, meaning 'five hills,' a reference to its five towering pyramids. Ancient Merida was an important center for the Mayan civilization until Spanish conquistador Francisco de Montejo y León founded a new city, Merida.

The stones from the pyramids were used to construct the new buildings, marking the beginning of the colonial architectural style. Moving forward to the 20th century, Merida became one of Mexico's most important commercial hubs, which it still is today, thanks to its strategic location.

Modern-day Merida

Despite the colonization, the Mayan culture remains present in Merida. From the continued use of the Mayan language to the flavors of traditional cuisine and the arts and crafts produced by indigenous artisans, Merida's cultural heritage reflects the city’s identity to this day.

Each year, Merida attracts travel enthusiasts, drawn not only to its fascinating local culture and architecture but also to its strategic location near other popular destinations. Merida serves as a bridge to other nearby attractions, such as cenotes (stunning natural sinkholes), the exotic beaches along the Gulf of Mexico, and the famous Chichen Itza.

Be prepared for a hot weather

Merida is characterized by its warm temperatures year-round, especially from May to October. That's why we suggest you bring appropriate clothing, consume water, and use sunscreen. Try to limit outdoor activities during the peak sun hours or visit nearby places, such as cenotes, to cool down.

Pre-book accommodations and attractions

If you book in advance, you will not only find accommodation for a better price but also have more options, as Merida is a popular destination and can fill up fairly quickly. Ensure that you also book in advance the most visited attractions, even those near Merida, such as Chichen Itza and the archaeological site of Uxmal.

Pick up some basic Spanish phrases

As you probably noticed while still in Tulum, Mexicans are known for their warmth and friendliness, and the locals in Merida are no exception. While Yucatec Maya is spoken in the city, Spanish is the primary language. To connect with the local community, consider learning a few basic Spanish phrases. Not only will you brighten the day of Meridians, but you'll also enhance your experience by engaging more deeply with the local culture.

Here are some phrases that you will find handy:

• Hola(hello)
• Gracias (thank you)
• Por favor (please)
• ¿Cuánto cuesta? (How much does it cost?)
• ¿Dónde está…? (Where is…?)
• No hablo español (I don’t speak Spanish)

Despite all these phrases being appreciated by the locals, they will be happy even if you learn the first two!

From Tulum to Merida by bus

If you are looking for a budget-friendly way to visit Merida, you can opt for a bus. ADO is a popular bus company in Mexico that will take you to your destination. ADO buses run several times per day, and it will take you to Merida in approximately 3.5 hours but keep in mind it can depend on different factors, such as traffic and weather conditions. The ticket costs 520 Mexican pesos which is around $31.30. You can purchase your ticket in advance by visiting the official ADO bus website, although it’s only available in Spanish.

From Tulum to Merida by private car service

While public transport might be a cheaper option, it’s not always reliable. Consider choosing a private car service like Daytrip for a seamless and safe trip across the Yucatan Peninsula. You will reach your destination in just over 2 hours and travel comfortably with air conditioning, which will be the perfect way to combat high temperatures. Additionally, Daytrip’s private car service offers flexibility, which means you can personalize stops along the way.

Daytrip knows the importance of communication, which is why our drivers speak English. Your knowledgeable driver will also share insights and give you recommendations, such as the best restaurants, lesser-known attractions, and more. You don’t have to worry about your luggage either, as your driver will take care of it. All you have to do is book your trip, fasten your seatbelt, and enjoy the stunning views as you approach the enchanting Merida. Secure a sedan that fits 3 guests for $289.

Explore the Mayan heritage

If you're fascinated by history, immerse yourself in the rich Mayan heritage that Merida proudly preserves today. Begin your journey by exploring the ancient ruins at Dzibilchaltún, then dive deeper into the fascinating Mayan heritage at the Mayan World Museum of Merida, with a collection of more than 1,100 artifacts.

Discover the taste of the Meridian cuisine

You can’t go to Merida without trying out Mexican food, as it is known as one of the best cuisines in the world, thanks to its rich flavor and variety. Some of the foods that you should try are:

• Cochinita pibil is a slow-cooked pork, it is the most famous Yucatan dish.
• Poc Chuc, a traditional Mayan dish, also consists of pork, in this case, it is marinated and then grilled.
• You can never go wrong with Yucatecan tamales, as the filling can be adapted to your liking, especially if you are vegetarian.
• Those with a sweet tooth will love marquesitas, a sweet waffle that’s filled with chocolate, caramel, or even cheese.

Attend the local events

Merida is a city that is filled with life throughout the year. If you happen to be there during one of the local events, make sure you join in, as it’s one of the best ways to experience the local culture.

Some of the most remarkable events are Merida's Carnival, Merida's International Festival of the Mayan Culture, and Day of the Dead, known as Día de los Muertos. You might have heard about the latter thanks to the famous animated film Coco. While the Day of the Dead is not exclusive to Merida, as it is celebrated in the whole country on the first 2 days of November, it is a holiday you cannot miss, as it has close ties to Mexican culture and identity.

Soak in the Meridian culture

Merida was well-deservedly named the Cultural Capital of the Americas in 2017, thanks to its rich cultural heritage and firmly established traditions. Visiting Merida’s museums will allow you to dive deeper into the city's history, while exploring its lively markets will take you on a truly enriching cultural experience.

Some of the museums you should visit (depending on your interests) are the Folk Art Museum of the Yucatan, Casa Montejo Museum, and Yucatan Music Museum. Don’t forget to add the main market in Merida Mercado Lucas de Gálvez to your itinerary, we promise it will be an unforgettable experience!

If you want to avoid potential rain, you will enjoy Merida more during the dry season from November to May. The temperature will be warm, around 87°F (30.5°C), and the humidity level will be lower, making it the perfect time to explore the main attractions and enjoy outdoor activities.

However, if you can tolerate heat with some occasional rain, you will prefer the wet season from June to October. Keep in mind that May and June are considered the hottest months of the year, with an average temperature of around 97°F (36°C).