A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Merida vs. Acadia National Park for Attractions, Food, Families, and Backpackers

Should you visit Merida or Acadia National Park?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Merida or Acadia National Park, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Merida

Merida is a traditional, colonial, and historical city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums. See Merida travel costs.

Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park is a scenic, picturesque, and beautiful national park. With stunning beauty, Acadia National Park attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the beaches and hiking. See Acadia National Park travel costs.

Merida and Acadia National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Merida or Acadia National Park?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Merida. Although Merida and Acadia National Park are popular destinations, Merida has more sights and attractions for tourists. Merida is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Acadia National Park attracts visitors for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Merida is famous for its vibrant plazas, long running history, and colonial architecture. It is also well known for Grand Plaza. Acadia National Park is famous for its scenic drives, beautiful fall foliage, and cross country skiing in the winter.

How is Merida different from Acadia National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Acadia National Park and Merida. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Merida or Acadia National Park?

Merida
Acadia National Park

Merida is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Acadia National Park is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Merida can be an interesting and educational experience. The city is filled with culture and traditional heritage, and there are many museums and architectural landmarks that will educate and inform visitors on the area. Gran Museo del Mundo Maya is a highlight for many visitors. It's also worth visiting Museo Casa Montejo and Museo Palacio Canton. If you want to visit ruins, then the Dzibilchaltun Mayan Ruins are about 45 minutes outside of town.

Acadia National Park offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are educational centers and Ranger Programs at the visitor centers in the park.


Is the Food Better in Merida or Acadia National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Merida
Acadia National Park

Merida is a very popular place for its restaurants. However, Acadia National Park is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Merida has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. It's a top foodie destination in the Yucatan region and visitors will enjoy the many local restaurants and diverse local dishes that are influenced by the Mayan, Spanish, and Caribbean cultures. The most well known local dish is cochinita pibil, which is marinated pork shoulder. Other popular dishes include sopa de lima (lime soup), papadzules (enchiladas with pumpkin seed sauce), and relleno negro (a local stew).

Acadia National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There's one restaurant in the park, the Jordan Pond House Restaurant, which serves lunch and dinner between mid-May and October. Many visitors prefer to bring their own food and enjoy meals at one of the six picnic areas.

Is Merida or Acadia National Park Better for Nightlife?

Merida
Acadia National Park

Merida is a very popular place for its evening party scene. However, Acadia National Park is lacking in good options for nightlife.

Merida has a large number of nightlife venues. Most tourists take advantage of the nightlife scene in the city's downtown area, while locals congregate in the northern part of town. The city has bars, theaters, night clubs, and live music that keeps the energy high late into the night.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Acadia National Park. The park is more about sunsets and stargazing than lively nightlife parties.

Is Merida or Acadia National Park Better for Beaches?

Merida
Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park is a nice place to visit for the beach. However, Merida is not a beach destination.

Acadia National Park has a beach worth visiting. There is one oceanside beach in the park, Sand Beach, as well as two lakefront beaches, Echo Lake Beach and Lake Wood. Many visitors enjoy swimming during the warmer months.

Merida is not a beach destination.


Is Merida or Acadia National Park Better for its Old Town?

Merida
Acadia National Park

Merida is a very popular place for its historic old town charm. However, Acadia National Park does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Merida to see the historical old town. Centered around the city's Grand Plaza, the old town is filled with colonial architecture and colorful buildings. The Catedral de San Ildefonso was the first cathedral built in the Americas. There are also monuments and examples of Mayan art and culture.

Acadia National Park does not have a historic old town.

Is Merida or Acadia National Park Better for Hiking?

Merida
Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Merida is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Acadia National Park. With 158 miles of hiking trails, this is a favorite activity for visitors to the park. There are diverse habitats that trails pass through including forests, estuaries, and coastal settings.

Merida is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Merida or Acadia National Park?

Merida
Acadia National Park

Merida is a very popular place for its shopping areas. However, Acadia National Park is lacking in good options for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Merida. There are colorful markets that are filled with artisan crafts and traditional clothing. Visitors enjoy discovering the unique vendors and picking up souvenirs that are unique to the area.

Acadia National Park has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There are several park stores near visitor centers and campgrounds.


Is Merida or Acadia National Park More Beautiful?

Merida
Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park is an excellent place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Merida is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Acadia National Park attracts visitors from all around. The dramatic ocean views and beautiful hiking trails make this a popular and scenic national park.

Merida is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Merida or Acadia National Park Better for Families?

Merida
Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Merida is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Acadia National Park. There are campgrounds and games that kids will enjoy. There are also Ranger Programs and hiking trails that are great for kids of all ages.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Merida. The weekend is the best time to visit the city, as this is when there are the most activities. There are live performances that educate visitors on Mayan traditions. There are also historic museums, bike-friendly streets, and a vibrant central market.

Is Merida or Acadia National Park Better for Couples?

Merida
Acadia National Park

Merida and Acadia National Park are both nice to visit as a couple.

Merida is a good city for couples to visit. If you're interested in Mayan culture and history, then this is a wonderful destination. There are also romantic hotels, excellent restaurants, and plenty of fascinating activities that couples will enjoy.

Acadia National Park is a nice destination for couples. The natural beauty and scenic trails make this a romantic destination for couples.


Is Merida or Acadia National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Merida
Acadia National Park

Merida is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Acadia National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Merida. It's a relatively large city with a number of hostels and budget hotels, so backpackers will have no problem finding a place to stay.

Acadia National Park is a good city to visit for backpackers. There are campgrounds and hiking trails that attracts hikers and backpackers who enjoy the beautiful natural setting.

Is Merida or Acadia National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Merida
Acadia National Park

Merida is a nice place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Acadia National Park is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Merida has some public transit options. While there are local bus routes, they can be a bit challenging to figure out when you first arrive.

Public transit is generally limited in Acadia National Park. The Island Explorer Shuttle Bus operates between late June and early October.

Is Merida or Acadia National Park a more walkable city?

Merida
Acadia National Park

Merida is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Acadia National Park is lacking in good options for its walkability.

Merida is a very walkable destination. It's a very walkable city and most visitors don't have a car.

Acadia National Park is generally not very walkable. There are countless hiking trails, but having a car allows more efficient access to everything that the park has to offer.


For even more information, also check out Is Merida Worth Visiting? and Is Acadia National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Acadia National Park or Merida?

How long in Merida or Acadia National Park?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Merida and Acadia National Park. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Acadia National Park than in Merida. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Merida, and 1-3 days is enough time in Acadia National Park.

Families should spend more time in Acadia National Park than Merida. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Acadia National Park, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Merida than Acadia National Park. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Merida that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Merida than Acadia National Park if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Merida.


  • How many days in Merida or Acadia National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Merida 1-2 
    Acadia National Park 1-3

One day in Merida or Acadia National Park?

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Merida. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Merida has to offer.

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the destination of Acadia National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Merida or Acadia National Park?

Merida is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Acadia National Park is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Merida or Acadia National Park?

Many people visit Merida for five days. You'll find museums and nightlife around the city of Merida. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Acadia National Park. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


A week in Merida or Acadia National Park?

The traditional destination of Merida offers nightlife and food. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the beautiful destination of Acadia National Park. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Cancun, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Mexico, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City.


Which place is cheaper, Acadia National Park or Merida?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Merida Prices
    Mexico Prices
    Acadia National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Merida $99
    Acadia National Park $206

The average daily cost (per person) in Merida is $99, while the average daily cost in Acadia National Park is $206. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Merida and Acadia National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Merida $40
    Acadia National Park $96
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Merida $80
    Acadia National Park $192
Compare Hotels in Merida and Acadia National Park

Looking for a hotel in Merida or Acadia National Park? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Merida


Hotels in Acadia National Park


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Merida Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Merida $17
    Acadia National Park $46

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Merida

Also for Merida, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer from Airport to Hotel in Merida One Way: $44
  • Private Transfer From Merida to Uxmal, English Speaking Driver: $156
  • Private Airport Transfer from Mérida to Campeche: $292
  • One-way Airport Transfers to Merida Hotels: $120
  • Merida hotels to Mérida International Airport (MID) - Private Departure Transfer: $25
  • Merida Airport (MID) Private Transfer to Merida Centre: $40
  • Mérida International Airport (MID) to Merida hotels - Roundtrip Private Transfer: $50
  • Mérida International Airport (MID) to Merida hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $25

Is it cheaper to fly into Merida or Acadia National Park?

Prices for flights to both Acadia National Park and Merida change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Merida $46
    Acadia National Park $78

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Merida

For Merida, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Private Street Food Tour + Historic Tour Merida - Best Rated : $44
  • Merida Food Tour with local Yucatecan Chef : $56
  • Merida Walking Food Tour. Authentic & Local Cuisine: $64
  • Taste of the Yucatan: Merida Cooking Class and Market Visit: $86
  • Merida Shore Excursion- Mexican Cooking Class with Port Transfers: $102
  • Market Tour and Authentic Cooking Class in Merida with Transfers: $154

Typical Food Prices in Acadia National Park

For Acadia National Park, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Lunch for 2
    $32

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Merida $15
    Acadia National Park $33
Typical Entertainment Prices in Merida

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Merida's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Train at the Zoo
    $0.11
  • Uxmal Entrance (for 2)
    $18
  • Mayan Village Entrance (for 2)
    $5.43

Tours and Activities in Merida

For Merida, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • 2-hour Temazcal experience in the Mayan world: $167
  • 3 Hour Tour in The Sotuta de Peón Live Museum: $56
  • 4 Cenotes Full Day Tour from Merida: $104
  • 4 Cenotes Tour in Homún all inclusive from Merida: $68
  • 4x1 Tour Chichen Itza Magic Towns Valladolid & Izamal from Merida: $108
  • 6-hour Guided Tour to Uxmal and Kabah Express: $89
  • Adventure 4 cenotes with Izamal: $119
  • Ake Ruins & Homun Cenotes Day Tour from Merida: $90
  • Ancestral Mayan Private Culinary Experience in Merida: $128
  • Boat tour through the mangroves of Celestún and Playa from Merida: $75
  • Celestun Biosphere Reserve Tour from Merida: $165
  • Celestun Nature Reserve Flamingo Tour-Boat to Flamingo Paradise from Merida: $230

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Merida $14
    Acadia National Park $11


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Merida and Acadia National Park, we can see that Acadia National Park is more expensive. And not only is Merida much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Merida would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Merida and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Acadia National Park would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Acadia National Park than you might in Merida.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Merida Expensive? and Is Acadia National Park Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Merida or Acadia National Park?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Merida or Acadia National Park in the Summer?

Both Acadia National Park and Merida are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Merida because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Acadia National Park this time of year.

Merida is around the same temperature as Acadia National Park in the summer. The daily temperature in Merida averages around 21°C (70°F) in July, and Acadia National Park fluctuates around 69°F (21°C).

In July, Merida usually receives less rain than Acadia National Park. Merida gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Acadia National Park receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Merida 21°C (70°F) 
    Acadia National Park 69°F (21°C)

Should I visit Merida or Acadia National Park in the Autumn?

Both Acadia National Park and Merida during the autumn are popular places to visit. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Merida this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Acadia National Park for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Merida is much warmer than Acadia National Park. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Merida in October average around 21°C (70°F), and Acadia National Park averages at about 48°F (9°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Merida. Merida usually gets more rain in October than Acadia National Park. Merida gets 210 mm (8.3 in) of rain, while Acadia National Park receives 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Merida 21°C (70°F) 
    Acadia National Park 48°F (9°C)

Should I visit Merida or Acadia National Park in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Merida and Acadia National Park. Many travelers come to Merida for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Acadia National Park in the winter for the museums and the cuisine.

Acadia National Park can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Merida is generally much warmer than Acadia National Park. Daily temperatures in Merida average around 20°C (68°F), and Acadia National Park fluctuates around 18°F (-8°C).

In January, Merida usually receives less rain than Acadia National Park. Merida gets 20 mm (0.8 in) of rain, while Acadia National Park receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Merida 20°C (68°F) 
    Acadia National Park 18°F (-8°C)

Should I visit Merida or Acadia National Park in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Merida as well as Acadia National Park. Many visitors come to Merida in the spring for the activities around the city. Additionally, most visitors come to Acadia National Park for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

Merida is much warmer than Acadia National Park in the spring. The daily temperature in Merida averages around 21°C (70°F) in April, and Acadia National Park fluctuates around 43°F (6°C).

Merida receives a lot of rain in the spring. Merida usually gets more rain in April than Acadia National Park. Merida gets 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain, while Acadia National Park receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Merida 21°C (70°F) 
    Acadia National Park 43°F (6°C)

Typical Weather for Acadia National Park and Merida

Merida Acadia National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 20°C (68°F) 20 mm (0.8 in) 18°F (-8°C) 3 inches (77 mm)
Feb 20°C (68°F) 50 mm (2 in) 20°F (-6°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Mar 21°C (70°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 31°F (-1°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm)
Apr 21°C (70°F) 150 mm (5.9 in) 43°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
May 22°C (72°F) 190 mm (7.5 in) 54°F (12°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Jun 21°C (70°F) 140 mm (5.5 in) 64°F (18°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm)
Jul 21°C (70°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 69°F (21°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Aug 21°C (70°F) 130 mm (5.1 in) 67°F (20°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm)
Sep 21°C (70°F) 190 mm (7.5 in) 59°F (15°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Oct 21°C (70°F) 210 mm (8.3 in) 48°F (9°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm)
Nov 21°C (70°F) 140 mm (5.5 in) 37°F (3°C) 4.6 inches (116 mm)
Dec 20°C (68°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 24°F (-5°C) 4 inches (100 mm)