A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Merida vs. Boston for Attractions, Old Town, Families, and Food

Should you visit Merida or Boston?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Merida or Boston, 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 colonial, historical, and traditional city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping. See Merida travel costs.

Boston

Boston is a loyal, historic, and traditional city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. Boston offers plenty of beauty for visitors. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. It's also popular because of the theater, nightlife, and live music. See Boston travel costs.

Merida and Boston: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Merida or Boston?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Boston than Merida. While Merida is larger than Boston, Boston has more sights and attractions for tourists. Boston is better known for its museums and attractions, theatre productions, music, beaches, historical sights, christmas markets, big city activities, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Merida is more popular for its shopping. Merida is well known for its vibrant plazas, long running history, and colonial architecture. Boston is well known for its enthusiastic sports fans, influential history, beautiful parks, and world-class universities. Also, Boston is famous for The Freedom Trail.

How is Merida different from Boston?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Boston 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 Boston?

Boston is terrific for its museums and history. Also, Merida is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Boston has many famous sights for visitors. The city itself feels like a living museum. It is famous for Faneuil Hall, the Museum of Fine Arts, the Isabelle Stewart Gardner Museum, the USS Constitution, as well as the many sites along the Freedom Trail. There are also many museums on the campuses of the world renowned universities in the city.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Merida. 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.

Is Merida or Boston Better for Theater?

Boston is an excellent place to visit for its shows and theatre. However, Merida is not a theatre destination.

Many visitors plan to see a show while visiting Boston. The city has many historic, beautifully restored theaters where you can enjoy a show. Head to the theater district for some of the most famous venues.

Merida is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Merida or Boston? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Merida and Boston.

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).

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Boston makes for a great culinary experience. There are many local dishes that utilize fresh caught seafood and comfort food flavors. The cuisine also takes advantage of the city's Italian and Irish populations. Famous local foods include New England Clam Chowder, lobster rolls, and baked beans. You'll find hearty sandwiches and filling meals that warm your soul.

Is Merida or Boston Better for Nightlife?

Both Merida and Boston have great vibes after the sun sets.

Merida has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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.

The people in Boston know how to have a good time. The city is known for its breweries, craft beer, and vibrant university neighborhoods. It also hosts regular outdoor movies and world class sporting events. The nightlife scene is varied, with some areas catering to the student population and other areas focused on the professional or sport-loving crowds.

Is Merida or Boston Better for Music?

Boston is a nice place to visit for its music scene. However, Merida is not a live music destination.

The music scene helps keep Boston active and fun. Popular music venues include Lizard Lounge, Blue Hills Bank Pavilion, and The Middle East.

Merida is not a live music destination.

Is Merida or Boston Better for Beaches?

Boston is a decent place to visit for the beach. However, Merida is not a beach destination.

The beach in Boston is worth checking out. There are a few urban beaches in the greater Boston area that you can explore on a nice day.

Merida is not a beach destination.

Is Merida or Boston Better for its Old Town?

Boston is terrific for its historic old town charm. Also, Merida is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its historic old town.

Boston has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. Boston is famous for its Freedom Trail, which takes visitors around the city's rich history. The oldest parts of the city are known as Boston Proper and include the neighborhoods of Beacon Hill, Historic Downtown, the North End, and the West End.

Merida is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Merida or Boston?

Merida is notable for shopping. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Merida is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Boston. Head to Back Bay for some of the best high end shops. There are luxury brands and boutique venues that sell local art or crafts.

Is Merida or Boston More Beautiful?

Boston is a nice place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Merida is not a destination known for its beauty.

Boston offers plenty of beauty for visitors. The history, architecture, and world renowned university campuses all give this city its unique beauty.

Merida is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Merida or Boston Better for Families?

Boston is terrific for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Merida is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Boston is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. It's filled with history, but there are also many activities for kids who need a break from all of the historical stuff. Popular activities for all ages include the Museum of Science, the New England Aquarium, and exploring the waterfront, gardens, and parks around town.

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 Boston Better for Couples?

Merida and Boston are both notable 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.

Boston is a nice destination for couples. Couples who enjoy history will enjoy exploring the city. Take a swan boat ride in the Public Garden and wander the unique route along the Freedom Trail. There are also many sporting and entertainment options around town.

Is Merida or Boston Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Merida is notable for backpackers. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Boston. Like most larger American cities, the city has a handful of hostels to choose from.

Is Merida or Boston Better for Students?

Boston is terrific for its student-friendly activities. However, Merida is not popular with students.

Boston is a great destination for students. It is a city of students, with a number of world renowned universities located here including Harvard University, Boston College, and MIT. Many neighborhoods are filled with students and there are many student-centered activities around town including festivals and an active nightlife scene.

Merida is not popular with students.

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

Boston is terrific for times when you don't have a car. Also, Merida is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Boston can take you anywhere. There's the T, which is the subway, as well as a trolley, bus, and water transportation system.

You'll find some public transit in Merida, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. While there are local bus routes, they can be a bit challenging to figure out when you first arrive.

Is Merida or Boston a more walkable city?

Boston is terrific for its ease of walking around. Also, Merida is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Boston. The many parks and compact neighborhoods are best explored on foot.

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

For even more information, also check out Is Merida Worth Visiting? and Is Boston Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Boston or Merida?

How long in Merida or Boston?

In either Merida or Boston, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Boston than Merida because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Merida, and 3-5 days is enough time in Boston.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Boston than Merida 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 Boston.

One day in Merida or Boston?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Merida. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

Boston is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Merida or Boston?

Merida 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.

Boston is a great place to explore. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Merida or Boston?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Merida. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Boston. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Merida or Boston?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the colonial destination of Merida. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Travelers enjoy the museums and theater when visiting the proud big city of Boston. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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 Photography Tours in United States of America, and The Best Camping Tours in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Merida and Boston, we can see that Boston 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 Boston would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Boston 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 Boston Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Merida or Boston?

Merida has a larger population, and is about 22% larger than the population of Boston. When comparing the sizes of Merida and Boston, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Merida or Boston?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Merida or Boston in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Merida as well as Boston. Many travelers come to Merida for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to Boston in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Merida is around the same temperature as Boston. Typically, the summer temperatures in Merida in July average around 21°C (70°F), and Boston averages at about 73°F (23°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Boston. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Merida this time of the year. In the summer, Merida often gets less sunshine than Boston. Merida gets 254 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Boston receives 304 hours of full sun.

Merida usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Boston. Merida gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Boston receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Merida or Boston in the Autumn?

Both Boston and Merida are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Merida in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Boston for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Merida is generally much warmer than Boston. Daily temperatures in Merida average around 21°C (70°F), and Boston fluctuates around 54°F (12°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Merida. Merida usually receives more sunshine than Boston during autumn. Merida gets 233 hours of sunny skies, while Boston receives 194 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Merida. In October, Merida usually receives more rain than Boston. Merida gets 210 mm (8.3 in) of rain, while Boston receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Merida or Boston in the Winter?

Both Boston and Merida during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Merida for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Boston because of the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

The weather in Boston can be very cold. Merida is much warmer than Boston in the winter. The daily temperature in Merida averages around 20°C (68°F) in January, and Boston fluctuates around 29°F (-2°C).

It's quite sunny in Merida. In the winter, Merida often gets more sunshine than Boston. Merida gets 209 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Boston receives 153 hours of full sun.

Merida usually gets less rain in January than Boston. Merida gets 20 mm (0.8 in) of rain, while Boston receives 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Merida or Boston in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Merida and Boston. The spring months attract visitors to Merida because of the activities around the city. Also, the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Boston this time of year.

In the spring, Merida is much warmer than Boston. Typically, the spring temperatures in Merida in April average around 21°C (70°F), and Boston averages at about 48°F (9°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Boston this time of the year. In Merida, it's very sunny this time of the year. Merida usually receives more sunshine than Boston during spring. Merida gets 260 hours of sunny skies, while Boston receives 225 hours of full sun in the spring.

Merida gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Merida usually receives more rain than Boston. Merida gets 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain, while Boston receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Boston and Merida