A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Merida vs. Jaco for Nightlife, Food, Backpackers, and Families

Should you visit Merida or Jaco?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Merida or Jaco, 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.

Jaco

Jaco is a touristy, laid back, and popular town. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and food. See Jaco travel costs.

Merida and Jaco: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Merida or Jaco?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Merida. Although Merida and Jaco are popular destinations, Merida has more sights and attractions for tourists. Merida is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Jaco attracts visitors for its nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Jaco is more touristy than Merida and is known for its surfing, nightlife, and beaches. Merida is famous for its vibrant plazas, long running history, and colonial architecture. It is also well known for Grand Plaza.

How is Merida different from Jaco?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Merida is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Jaco 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.

Jaco offers a few options for museum-goers. Most people spend their time outside or partying while they're in town.

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

Merida is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Jaco is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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).

Jaco offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There's a range of restaurants around town that include hamburger joints, pizza shops, and other casual favorites. You'll find a variety of options along the main strip as well.

Is Merida or Jaco Better for Nightlife?

Jaco is terrific for its evening party scene. Also, Merida is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

Jaco is a must-see party destination. What was once a quiet surfing town is now one of the most famous party destinations in Costa Rica. There are a constantly growing number of bars and clubs around town and you'll find tons of young tourists and backpackers looking for a party.

The people in Merida know how to have a good time. 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.

Is Merida or Jaco Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Jaco is a nice place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Merida is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Jaco has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. You can't really snorkel at Jaco Beach because of the waves and water conditions, but there are a number of snorkeling tours that leave from town and take you to better spots.

Merida is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Merida or Jaco Better for Beaches?

Jaco is a nice place to visit for the beach. However, Merida is not a beach destination.

Jaco has a beach worth visiting. Jaco Beach is a great spot for swimming and surfing. It's lost some of its original charm, but there's still golden sand and nearby horseback riding.

Merida is not a beach destination.

Is Merida or Jaco Better for its Old Town?

Merida is a very popular place for its historic old town charm. However, Jaco 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.

Jaco does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Merida or Jaco?

Merida is a very popular place for its shopping areas. Also, Jaco is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Jaco is a great destination for shopping. Many of the shops are found along the main street. There are a number of souvenir stores and a few art galleries that are worth checking out.

Is Merida or Jaco Better for Families?

Merida and Jaco are both nice 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 Jaco. Nearby you'll find horseback riding, monkey tours, and other fun kid-friendly activities. Kids will enjoy the beaches in the area as well.

Is Merida or Jaco Better for Couples?

Merida and Jaco 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.

Jaco is a nice destination for couples. It's one of the more touristy parts of Costa Rica, but if you enjoy surfing and beach life, then you'll find a lot to do in the area.

Is Merida or Jaco Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Merida and Jaco are both superb destinations 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.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Jaco. It's a touristy town with a bit of a party reputation. There are plenty of hostels and other backpackers around so you shouldn't have trouble meeting people.

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

Merida is a nice place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Jaco 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 Jaco. Most people walk or get around by bicycle.

Is Merida or Jaco a more walkable city?

Merida and Jaco are superb when it comes to walkability.

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

Jaco is very walkable. The town is compact and walkable. You'll find many of the restaurants and shops along the main street, and it's easy to reach the beach on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Jaco or Merida?

How long in Merida or Jaco?

It's fun to spend time in either Merida or Jaco. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Jaco due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Merida, and 3-4 days is enough time in Jaco.

Families should spend more time in Merida than Jaco. 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 Jaco. 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 Jaco 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 Jaco?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Merida. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Jaco. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Merida or Jaco?

Merida is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Jaco is a great place to explore. Don't miss the nightlife, 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 Jaco?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the colonial destination of Merida. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Jaco. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. 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 Jaco?

The colonial city of Merida offers nightlife and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week 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.

Travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the popular destination of Jaco. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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 Budget Tours to Costa Rica, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Costa Rica.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Merida and Jaco, we can see that Jaco is more expensive. And not only is Merida much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Merida is in North America and Jaco is in Central America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. 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 Jaco would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Jaco 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 Jaco Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Merida or Jaco?

Merida has a larger population, and is about 180 times larger than the population of Jaco. When comparing the sizes of Merida and Jaco, 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 Jaco?

Merida has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Jaco experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Merida or Jaco in the Summer?

Both Jaco 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. Plenty of visitors come to Jaco because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

Merida is cooler than Jaco in the summer. The daily temperature in Merida averages around 21°C (70°F) in July, and Jaco fluctuates around 28°C (82°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Merida. Merida usually receives more sunshine than Jaco during summer. Merida gets 254 hours of sunny skies, while Jaco receives 164 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Jaco. In July, Merida usually receives less rain than Jaco. Merida gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Jaco receives 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Merida or Jaco in the Autumn?

Both Jaco 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. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Jaco year-round.

In the autumn, Merida is cooler than Jaco. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Merida in October average around 21°C (70°F), and Jaco averages at about 27°C (81°F).

It's quite sunny in Merida. In the autumn, Merida often gets more sunshine than Jaco. Merida gets 233 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Jaco receives 169 hours of full sun.

Jaco gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Merida. Merida usually gets less rain in October than Jaco. Merida gets 210 mm (8.3 in) of rain, while Jaco receives 254 mm (10 in) of rain this time of the year. November to May is the dry season in Jaco. Also, the hurricane season in Jaco is June to October.

Should I visit Merida or Jaco in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Merida and Jaco. Many travelers come to Merida for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Jaco attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

In January, Merida is generally cooler than Jaco. Daily temperatures in Merida average around 20°C (68°F), and Jaco fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Jaco this time of the year. In Merida, it's very sunny this time of the year. Merida usually receives less sunshine than Jaco during winter. Merida gets 209 hours of sunny skies, while Jaco receives 264 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Merida usually receives more rain than Jaco. Merida gets 20 mm (0.8 in) of rain, while Jaco receives 8 mm (0.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Merida or Jaco in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Merida as well as Jaco. Many visitors come to Merida in the spring for the activities around the city. The warm climate attracts visitors to Jaco throughout the year.

Merida is cooler than Jaco in the spring. The daily temperature in Merida averages around 21°C (70°F) in April, and Jaco fluctuates around 29°C (85°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Jaco. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Merida this time of the year. In the spring, Merida often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Jaco. Merida gets 260 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Jaco receives 255 hours of full sun.

Merida receives a lot of rain in the spring. Merida usually gets more rain in April than Jaco. Merida gets 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain, while Jaco receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, November to May in Jaco is the dry season. Keep in mind that June to October is the hurricane season in Jaco.

Typical Weather for Jaco and Merida