A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Merida vs. Grand Canyon National Park for Couples, Backpackers, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Merida or Grand Canyon 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 Grand Canyon 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 colonial, historical, and traditional city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums. See Merida travel costs.

Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is a striking, breathtaking, and stunning national park. Grand Canyon National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the hiking. See Grand Canyon National Park travel costs.

Merida and Grand Canyon National Park: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Merida or Grand Canyon National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Merida than Grand Canyon National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Merida is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Grand Canyon National Park is more popular for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. Grand Canyon National Park is more touristy than Merida and is known for its iconic beauty, layers of color, breathtaking sunsets, and world-renowned geological history. Merida is well known for its vibrant plazas, long running history, and colonial architecture. Also, Merida is famous for Grand Plaza.

How is Merida different from Grand Canyon National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Grand Canyon 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 Grand Canyon National Park?

Merida is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Grand Canyon National Park 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.

Grand Canyon National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

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

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

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Merida. 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).

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Grand Canyon National Park. There are several markets, restaurants, and cafes in the park but, in general, the options are expensive and not the best. If possible, bring your own food and plan for a picnic with a view.

Is Merida or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Nightlife?

Merida is a very popular place for nightlife. However, Grand Canyon National Park is lacking in good options for nightlife and partying.

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.

Grand Canyon National Park is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. There's a couple of bars that aren't too far from the park but you'll do better to bring your own drinks and enjoy the scenic setting.

Is Merida or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Resorts?

Grand Canyon National Park is a nice place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Merida is not a resort destination.

Grand Canyon National Park has a few great resort options. There are several options within and near the park that range from luxury to affordable. Reservations should be made well in advance for most hotels within the park. Bright Angel Lodge, El Tovar Hotel, Grand Canyon Lodge (North Rim) and Phantom Ranch are all unique places to stay.

Merida is not a resort destination.

Is Merida or Grand Canyon National Park Better for its Old Town?

Merida is a very popular place for its historic old town. However, Grand Canyon National Park 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.

Grand Canyon National Park does not have a historic old town.

Is Merida or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Hiking?

Grand Canyon 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 Grand Canyon National Park. Hiking options at the Grand Canyon include an easy walk along the rim or a hike into the canyon. If you're planning to enjoy a view from the rim and then stroll along the rim walk, a day or two is plenty. Hiking into the canyon is a thrilling experience, but it does require more preparation and planning. You should also check out the weather before you depart as temperatures within the canyon can become dangerously hot.

Merida is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Merida or Grand Canyon National Park?

Merida is a very popular place for shopping. However, Grand Canyon National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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.

Grand Canyon National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Merida or Grand Canyon National Park More Beautiful?

Grand Canyon National Park is terrific for its scenery and beauty. However, Merida is not a destination known for its beauty.

Grand Canyon National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. The canyon is a breathtaking national landmark that has striking colors and spectacular views.

Merida is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Merida or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Families?

Merida and Grand Canyon National Park are both notable destinations for the whole family.

Merida is a family-friendly city. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Grand Canyon National Park. This park is a spectacular landmark with a number of nature programs that kids can enjoy. There's also a simple rim walk along the edge of the canyon that is perfect for little legs.

Is Merida or Grand Canyon National Park Better for Couples?

Grand Canyon National Park is terrific for couples. Also, Merida is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Grand Canyon National Park has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Couples who enjoy beauty, nature, and adventure will appreciate a visit to this park. There are amazing hikes and breathtaking views that make this a truly romantic destination. There are also several hotels and lodges that make for a truly romantic getaway (book well in advance!).

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 Grand Canyon National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Grand Canyon National Park is terrific for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Merida is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Grand Canyon National Park, as it is a very popular national park for budget travelers. Backpackers and budget travelers can take in one of America's most notable landmarks while camping at the large and affordable national park campground.

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.

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

Merida is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Grand Canyon 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 Grand Canyon National Park. There are free shuttle buses that run along the South Rim of the Grand Canyon.

Is Merida or Grand Canyon National Park a more walkable city?

Merida is a very popular place for its walkability. Also, Grand Canyon National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

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

Grand Canyon National Park is a somewhat walkable place. There's a nice rim walk that is the perfect place for a leisurely stroll, but to reach many parts of the park you'll want to have a car or plan to take some form of transit.

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

Should I spend more time in Grand Canyon National Park or Merida?

How long in Merida or Grand Canyon National Park?

It's fun to spend time in either Merida or Grand Canyon National Park. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Grand Canyon National Park due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Merida, and 1-4 days is enough time in Grand Canyon National Park.

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

Couples should spend more time in Merida than Grand Canyon 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 Grand Canyon 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.

One day in Merida or Grand Canyon National Park?

In Merida, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this traditional destination offers. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

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

A weekend in Merida or Grand Canyon National Park?

In Merida, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Many people spend a weekend here. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

Grand Canyon 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 Grand Canyon National Park?

Many people enjoy the food and shopping when visiting 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. This city offers something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Grand Canyon 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 Grand Canyon National Park?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the city of Merida. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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 when visiting the gorgeous destination of Grand Canyon 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 G Adventures Tours to United States of America, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas.

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