A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Merida vs. Cape Cod for Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Merida or Cape Cod?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Merida or Cape Cod, 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 museums, nightlife, and food. See Merida travel costs.

Cape Cod

Cape Cod is a wealthy, maritime, and beautiful beach destination. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. With stunning beauty, Cape Cod attracts visitors from all around. Because of its quaint atmosphere, it draws plenty of visitors, too. It's also popular because of the beaches, hiking, and shopping. See Cape Cod travel costs.

Merida and Cape Cod: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Merida or Cape Cod?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Merida. Although Merida and Cape Cod are popular destinations, Merida has more sights and attractions for tourists. Merida is very popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, historical sights, and big city activities, while Cape Cod attracts visitors for its resorts, beaches, hiking, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Merida is famous for its vibrant plazas, long running history, and colonial architecture. It is also well known for Grand Plaza. Cape Cod is famous for its long scenic coastline, charming compact towns, and magnificent migrating whales.

How is Merida different from Cape Cod?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Merida
Cape Cod

Merida is great for its historical sights. However, Cape Cod does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around 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.

Cape Cod does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Merida
Cape Cod

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

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, Cape Cod makes for a great culinary experience. The region is famous for its fresh seafood and popular dishes include the fried clams and broiled lobster. There are also many diners and brunch cafes where you can enjoy pancakes or eggs benedict.

Is Merida or Cape Cod Better for Nightlife?

Merida
Cape Cod

Merida is great for its evening party scene. However, Cape Cod is not a good destination for nightlife.

Many people head to Merida for the nightlife scene. 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.

People don't go to Cape Cod for the nightlife. This area isn't really known for its nightlife, but the downtown of Hyannis has some activity at night.

Is Merida or Cape Cod Better for Resorts?

Merida
Cape Cod

Cape Cod is a nice place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Merida is not a resort destination.

Cape Cod has a few great resort options. Wequassett Resort and Golf Club, White Elephant Resorts, and Chatham Bars Inn are favorite resorts in the Cape Cod area.

Merida is not a resort destination.


Is Merida or Cape Cod Better for Beaches?

Merida
Cape Cod

Cape Cod is an excellent place to visit for the beach. However, Merida is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Cape Cod. Beaches in the area include long stretches of soft sand as well as tidal pools where kids can play. Several of the best beaches around Cape Cod include Mayflower Beach, Marconi Beach, and Race Point Beach.

Merida is not a beach destination.

Is Merida or Cape Cod Better for its Old Town?

Merida
Cape Cod

Merida is great for its historic old town charm. However, Cape Cod does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Merida. 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.

Cape Cod does not have a historic old town.

Is Merida or Cape Cod Better for Hiking?

Merida
Cape Cod

Cape Cod is a nice place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Merida is not a hiking destination.

Cape Cod has hiking trails worth exploring. Hikes range from casual strolls to longer trails. Popular options include Bass Hole Boardwalk in Yarmouth and the 22 mile Cape Cod Rail Trail.

Merida is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Merida or Cape Cod?

Merida
Cape Cod

Shoppers can find a variety of great stores in both Merida and Cape Cod.

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.

Cape Cod is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Many of the area's towns have charming Main Streets where you can enjoy shopping and dining.

Is Merida or Cape Cod More Beautiful?

Merida
Cape Cod

Cape Cod is an excellent place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Merida is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Cape Cod attracts visitors from all around. Beautiful beaches, quaint towns, and picturesque scenery make this area truly unique.

Merida is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Merida or Cape Cod Better for Families?

Merida
Cape Cod

Cape Cod 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 Cape Cod. The coastal towns have a number of kid-friendly activities. In the Upper Cape, Falmouth is one of the best towns for families. On Mid Cape, Dennis and Yarmouth are both kid-friendly. Dennis has a resorty vibe and Yarmouth has kid-friendly museums. On the Lower Cape, both Harwich and Orleans are family-friendly options.

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 Cape Cod Better for Couples?

Merida
Cape Cod

Cape Cod is an excellent place to visit for couples. Also, Merida is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Cape Cod makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With its charming character and relaxing beach setting, honeymooners and couples will appreciate all that the area has to offer. There are peaceful settings and charming villages to explore. There are also award-winning restaurants and beautiful views.

Merida is a nice destination for couples. 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.

Is Merida or Cape Cod Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Merida
Cape Cod

Merida is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Cape Cod is not a good destination 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.

Cape Cod is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. This area is more focused on luxury and family vacationers than it is on backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Merida
Cape Cod

Merida is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Cape Cod is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Merida offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. 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 Cape Cod. While there are buses and shuttles to help you get around, a car really is necessary to explore the area.


Is Merida or Cape Cod a more walkable city?

Merida
Cape Cod

Merida is great for its ease of walking around. Also, Cape Cod is not as popular, but is still a nice beach destination for its walkability.

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

Cape Cod is somewhat walkable. Many of the small towns in the area have compact and walkable areas, but the region is spread out so it's helpful to have a car to get from place to place.

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

Should I spend more time in Cape Cod or Merida?

How long in Merida or Cape Cod?

Both Merida and Cape Cod have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Cape Cod than in Merida. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Merida, and 5-7 days is enough time in Cape Cod.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Merida than Cape Cod 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 Cape Cod? Ideal Length of Stay
    Merida 1-2 
    Cape Cod 5-7

One day in Merida or Cape Cod?

The city of Merida offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Cape Cod might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Merida or Cape Cod?

Merida is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Merida, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Cape Cod is a great place to explore. 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 Cape Cod?

Merida is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cape Cod. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Most people come for the beaches. 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 Cape Cod?

Merida is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

Cape Cod is a small town with plenty to do. This beach destination offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.


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.


Which place is cheaper, Cape Cod 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
    Cape Cod Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Merida $99
    Cape Cod $227

The average daily cost (per person) in Merida is $99, while the average daily cost in Cape Cod is $227. 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 Cape Cod in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Merida $40
    Cape Cod $92
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Merida $80
    Cape Cod $184
Compare Hotels in Merida and Cape Cod

Looking for a hotel in Merida or Cape Cod? 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 Cape Cod


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
    Cape Cod $50

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Merida

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

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Merida or Cape Cod?

Prices for flights to both Cape Cod 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
    Cape Cod $103

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

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Merida $15
    Cape Cod $27
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

Tours and Activities in Cape Cod

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Cape Cod.

  • National Seashore Tour with Guided Hike: $75
  • Provincetown West End History Tour : $38
  • The Pilgrim Monument Tour- From Harbor to Heights: $52
  • The Tides of Terror A Provincetown Hidden Horrors Tour: $68
  • Cape Cod & Provincetown Self-Guided Driving & Walking Audio Tour: $22
  • Cape Cod Explorer Tour: $80
  • Chatham Bites and Sights Walking Guided Food Tasting Tour: $98
  • Highland House and Cape Cod Lighthouse Tour: $58
  • Kayak The Creek Nature Tour: $80
  • Local Legends and Lobster Roll Tour: $92
  • Lucinda Liphol Provincetown Cemetery Tour: $30
  • Mayflower Trolley Tour!: $46

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Merida $14
    Cape Cod $19


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



When is the best time to visit Merida or Cape Cod?

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 Cape Cod in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Merida and Cape Cod. Many travelers come to Merida for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Cape Cod in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Merida is around the same temperature as Cape Cod in the summer. The daily temperature in Merida averages around 21°C (70°F) in July, and Cape Cod fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cape Cod this time of the year. In Merida, it's very sunny this time of the year. Merida usually receives less sunshine than Cape Cod during summer. Merida gets 254 hours of sunny skies, while Cape Cod receives 304 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Merida usually receives less rain than Cape Cod. Merida gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Cape Cod receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Merida 21°C (70°F) 
    Cape Cod 68°F (20°C)

Should I visit Merida or Cape Cod in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Merida as well as Cape Cod. Many visitors come to Merida in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Additionally, most visitors come to Cape Cod for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Merida is much warmer than Cape Cod. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Merida in October average around 21°C (70°F), and Cape Cod averages at about 53°F (12°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Merida this time of the year. In the autumn, Merida often gets more sunshine than Cape Cod. Merida gets 233 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cape Cod receives 194 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Cape Cod. Merida receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Merida usually gets more rain in October than Cape Cod. Merida gets 210 mm (8.3 in) of rain, while Cape Cod receives 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Merida 21°C (70°F) 
    Cape Cod 53°F (12°C)

Should I visit Merida or Cape Cod in the Winter?

Both Cape Cod and Merida are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Merida for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Cape Cod because of the shopping scene and the cuisine.

The weather in Cape Cod can be very cold. In January, Merida is generally much warmer than Cape Cod. Daily temperatures in Merida average around 20°C (68°F), and Cape Cod fluctuates around 31°F (-0°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Merida. Merida usually receives more sunshine than Cape Cod during winter. Merida gets 209 hours of sunny skies, while Cape Cod receives 153 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Cape Cod. In January, Merida usually receives less rain than Cape Cod. Merida gets 20 mm (0.8 in) of rain, while Cape Cod receives 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Merida 20°C (68°F) 
    Cape Cod 31°F (-0°C)

Should I visit Merida or Cape Cod in the Spring?

Both Cape Cod and Merida during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Merida because of the activities around the city. Also, the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Cape Cod this time of year.

Merida is much warmer than Cape Cod in the spring. The daily temperature in Merida averages around 21°C (70°F) in April, and Cape Cod fluctuates around 45°F (7°C).

In Cape Cod, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Merida. In the spring, Merida often gets more sunshine than Cape Cod. Merida gets 260 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cape Cod receives 225 hours of full sun.

Cape Cod gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Merida. Merida usually gets more rain in April than Cape Cod. Merida gets 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain, while Cape Cod receives 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Merida 21°C (70°F) 
    Cape Cod 45°F (7°C)

Typical Weather for Cape Cod and Merida

Merida Cape Cod
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 20°C (68°F) 20 mm (0.8 in) 31°F (-0°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm)
Feb 20°C (68°F) 50 mm (2 in) 32°F (-0°C) 4.6 inches (117 mm)
Mar 21°C (70°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 38°F (3°C) 4 inches (102 mm)
Apr 21°C (70°F) 150 mm (5.9 in) 45°F (7°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm)
May 22°C (72°F) 190 mm (7.5 in) 53°F (12°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Jun 21°C (70°F) 140 mm (5.5 in) 62°F (17°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Jul 21°C (70°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 68°F (20°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Aug 21°C (70°F) 130 mm (5.1 in) 68°F (20°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)
Sep 21°C (70°F) 190 mm (7.5 in) 62°F (17°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm)
Oct 21°C (70°F) 210 mm (8.3 in) 53°F (12°C) 4.4 inches (111 mm)
Nov 21°C (70°F) 140 mm (5.5 in) 46°F (8°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Dec 20°C (68°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 36°F (2°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm)