Things to do in Merida

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Puente Romano
Roman Theatre and Amphitheatre
Merida
Acueducto de los Milagros featuring heritage architecture and a sunset
National Museum of Roman Art featuring heritage elements and interior views

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. 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

4. 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

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. 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

7. 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

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

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!

 

 

Discover the most popular places to visit in Merida

Roman Theatre and Amphitheatre

Roman Theatre

5/5(11 reviews)

Explore the well-preserved remains of this 2,000-year-old theater that serves its original function as a performance venue as it has for scores of generations.

Roman Theatre
Puente Romano

Puente Romano

5/5(11 reviews)

Walk across this lengthy Roman bridge, a magnificent structure that has withstood centuries of damage from rain, floods and battles.

Puente Romano
Plaza de Espana

Plaza de Espana

4.5/5(12 reviews)

In the heart of Mérida's historical center is its medieval square. Relax in the restaurants and visit centuries-old buildings that surround this attractive plaza.

Plaza de Espana
Temple of Diana

Temple of Diana

4.5/5(9 reviews)

See the ruins of one of the most important buildings in Roman Mérida, a temple where sacrifices were made and emperors were worshipped.

Temple of Diana
Museo Nacional de Arte Romano

National Museum of Roman Art

4.5/5(5 reviews)

Discover many fascinating Roman works of art, such as sculptures, portraits and inscriptions, and see how Roman houses were decorated.

National Museum of Roman Art
Acueducto de los Milagros

Acueducto de los Milagros

5/5(8 reviews)

Marvel at this wonderful example of Roman architecture and engineering, which brought water into the city from a reservoir several miles away.

Acueducto de los Milagros
Circo Romano

Circo Romano

4.5/5(5 reviews)

During your time in Mérida, visit this 1st-century Roman sporting arena, which features parts of its original stands and a U-shaped track.

Circo Romano
The amphitheatre in Mérida nearby the Theatre.

Amphitheatre of Merida

5/5(3 reviews)

Get tickets for a show at Amphitheatre of Merida, a storied theater in Merida. Experience the area's theater scene and entertainment venues.

Amphitheatre of Merida
Arco de Trajano

Arco de Trajano

4/5(5 reviews)

Contemplate the design and structure of this 1st-century Roman arch that once served as a gateway to an important temple.

Arco de Trajano

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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Distrito 6

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

Distrito 6
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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 Acueducto de los Milagros and Puente Romano.

El Prado
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Polígono Industrial Carrión

Though Polígono Industrial Carrión might not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Puente Romano and Plaza de Espana.

Polígono Industrial Carrión
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Carcesa

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

Carcesa
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San Antonio

Though San Antonio might not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Puente Romano and Plaza de Espana.

San Antonio
See our Where To Stay guide

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Popular day trips from Merida

Badajoz

Badajoz

Plaza Mayor

Cáceres

Almendralejo

Almendralejo

Photo by Mapp_m

Alange

Photo "Guarena" by Doowy10 (page does not exist) (CC BY-SA) / Cropped from original
Photo by Doowy10 (page does not exist) (CC BY-SA)

Guarena

Photo "Alcuescar" by Ángel M. Felicísimo (CC BY-SA) / Cropped from original
Photo by Ángel M. Felicísimo (CC BY-SA)

Alcuescar

Photo "Arroyomolinos de Montanchez" by robetoacedo (CC BY-SA) / Cropped from original
Photo by robetoacedo (CC BY-SA)

Arroyomolinos de Montanchez

Frequently asked questions

Is Merida worth visiting?
From retail therapy to outdoor activities and history, there are loads of great things to do in Merida. Don't forget to discover the area's mix of awesome attractions, local charm and culture.
How do I spend a day in Merida?
Kick-start your day with a visit to Alcazaba and Los Columbarios. Then, check out other parts of Merida for local restaurants and some shopping.
What is the top tourist attraction in Merida?
You can't go home without exploring Amphitheatre of Merida, rated the top tourist attraction in Merida.
Is three days enough to stay in Merida?
Three days in Merida is enough to visit the city's major highlights. Many guests stay for two days on average. Amphitheatre of Merida, Puente Romano and Alcazaba are top-rated sights. Like to see more? Hang around a bit longer to explore nearby hotspots such as Merida Old Town.
Is Merida a walkable city?
It depends on what you'd like to do and see in Merida. Several sights, such as Amphitheatre of Merida and Puente Romano, are accessible on foot. If you're up for a stroll around some of Merida's best neighborhoods, Bellavista is 1 mile away from downtown, while Distrito 6 is 2 miles away from the city center and also within walking distance.
What are some activities to do in Merida with kids?
Planning what to do in Merida with kids has never been simpler. Whether you have little ones or teenagers, there's a range of family-friendly tours and activities to keep everyone busy here.

What to do in Merida for adults?
Casa de Mitreo is one of the top things to do in Merida. With lots of activities available, there's something here for everyone.
Are there free things to do in Merida?
In Merida, Basilica of Saint Eulalia is a popular spot for anyone looking to see the city without opening their wallet. Also, check out the parks and other neighborhoods, and ask a local tour guide for ideas. It's a good way to discover the best free things to do in Merida.