Fun & Fancy: The Most Unique Places To Stay in Mérida

As the capital of Mexico’s Yucatán state, Mérida holds significance not just as a center of colonial heritage, but also as a place known for its contemporary cultural expression. Nowhere is this more apparent than in the city’s accommodation sector, with countless small-scale and boutique properties springing up in everything from restored mansions to thoughtfully repurposed old townhouses, in the process adding plenty of mod-cons to the historical craftsmanship that’s still very much on display.

Their presence certainly contributes to the city’s charm. At the same time, they offer a more intimate and authentic Yucatán guest experience, providing travelers with an array of unique options to consider. Staying at these most unique accommodations in Mérida provides several benefits. Many of them are situated within walking distance of the city’s best attractions, including the Plaza Grande and the city’s ornate Cathedral, and also offer the kind of personalized services (think to smaller room counts and attentive staff) that you simply won’t find in bigger luxury hotels.

And when you add to this already compelling reasoning amenities such as on-site dining and pampering spas, these unique places to stay in Mérida are well worth considering next time you visit.

The Most Unique Places To Stay in Mérida

Coqui Coqui Mérida

Located near the heart of the city’s historic center and within convenient reach of Paseo de Montejo and the bustling Plaza Grande, Coqui Coqui Mérida is certainly one of the most unique places to stay in Mérida. While the property only has a limited number of rooms, each exquisitely combines colonial architecture with minimalist décor. A highlight for couples is the twin bathtubs, handily positioned side by side so that your partner is always close by as you share the experience.

The establishment also houses a spa and a perfumery, Coqui Coqui Perfumeria, which is known for fragrances inspired by regional ingredients such as tobacco and agave. Coqui Coqui Mérida offers in-room breakfast arrangements, while its central location ensures plenty of great restaurants are located close by.

Find out more at www.coquicoqui.com.

Art 57 Hotel

Art 57 Hotel sits on Calle 57 in Mérida’s Centro Histórico, an area well-known for its galleries, parks, and lively cultural scene. The property’s name and concept revolve around local art, with its common areas and guest rooms adorned with works by regional artists. Comprising just 16 uniquely decorated rooms designed with a nod to Mérida’s artistic heritage, this unique property also features a secluded swimming pool in a quiet central courtyard. A complimentary breakfast is included with your stay and is served in a pleasant courtyard setting.

The hotel’s central location puts it within walking distance of Mérida’s main square, where the Cathedral of San Ildefonso and the Governor’s Palace stand as prominent attractions. Santa Lucía Park, well-known for its live music and local crafts market, is also close by.

Learn more at www.art57hotel.com.

Casona 66

Set in an elegantly restored colonial building along Calle 66 in Mérida’s downtown area, Casona 66 features original tile floors, high-beamed ceilings, and attractive interior courtyards that reflect the city’s 19th-century heritage. Just four sumptuous rooms are available, with our favorite being the first-floor King Room. The hotel’s largest unit, it comes with a separate sitting area and dressing room with work space.

For a small hotel, the amenities are certainly impressive. Breakfast is provided, and a small bar area serves cocktails and wine which you can enjoy poolside or in the bright yet cozy lobby. Hotel staff can also organize tours around town as well as excursions to Yucatán’s many Mayan sites.

Visit their website at www.casona66merida.com for further details.

Óntico Urban Design Hotel

Óntico Urban Design Hotel is another high-end boutique-style hotel that’s worth including on your list of potential unique places to stay in Mérida (and if it’s not on your shortlist, it should be). This elegant 4-star property features just 20 rooms, each of them decorated in the same plush, modern style as the hotel’s public spaces. Featuring fresh white décor with black accents, they’re bright and comfortable and certainly appeal to young, hip travelers for their sleek, minimalist designs. If available, be sure to request a room with a balcony or private terrace.

For the ultimate in pampering, book a treatment or two at the on-site Piedra de Agua Mérida Spa (its couple massages are particularly popular). While there’s no swimming pool on-site, day passes are provided to Óntico’s nearby sister hotel, Piedra de Agua Mérida. An American- or continental-style breakfast option is also available and can be enjoyed in-room. A good-sized public meeting and working space called the NetSpot is also available for guest use, and private transportation is also available.

Check out their website at hotelontico.com.mx for rates and reservations at one of our favorite unique hotels in Merida.

Hotel Caribe

Hotel Caribe is situated near the main square in Mérida’s historic center, placing it steps away from the Cathedral of San Ildefonso and the Governor’s Palace. One of the larger hotels on this list, its pink façade envelopes 53 exquisitely decorated rooms, each bright and spacious, and all of them centered around the hotel’s larger, lush courtyard.

A focal point of the property is its lovely rooftop terrace with a swimming pool, which affords an excellent panoramic view of the cathedral and the surrounding cityscape. Other highlights include an open-air bar and restaurant serving a mix of local and international dishes. A healthy breakfast is provided on the hotel’s patio overlooking the central courtyard. Since Hotel Caribe is located in one of the most touristic areas of Mérida, numerous restaurants and bars are within easy walking distance for those wanting to broaden their food and drink experiences.

Check out the hotel’s website at www.hotelcaribe.com.mx for further details.

Hotel MedioMundo

It’s hard to miss the Hotel MedioMundo. Painted bright blue with red doors, this 4-star hotel on Calle 55 offers a dozen equally colorful rooms centered around a large central courtyard, a lush and peaceful oasis from the bustling tourist zone outside. This sense of serenity extends to the rooms, too, which are handsomely decorated with local flourishes such as tiled bathroom surfaces and handcrafted furniture. And the rooms are quite spacious, boasting high ceilings and dressing areas for when a little additional privacy is needed.

On-site amenities include a 24-hour reception, a restaurant, as well as a fitness center, and laundry services are available if needed. Complimentary wi-fi is also included.

Find out more about one of the best unique places to stay in Mérida at hotel-medio-mundo.hotelsmerida.org/en/.