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

Should you visit Merida or Marathon?

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

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

Marathon

Marathon is a quaint, beautiful, and relaxing island. With stunning beauty, Marathon attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Marathon travel costs.

Merida and Marathon: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Merida or Marathon?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Merida than Marathon, 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 Marathon is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty. Merida is well known for its vibrant plazas, long running history, and colonial architecture. Also, Merida is famous for Grand Plaza. Marathon is well known for its Loggerhead sea turtles, the Dolphin Research Center, Sombrero Beach, and its many places to scuba dive and snorkel.

How is Merida different from Marathon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Merida is great for its historical sights. However, Marathon does not have 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.

Marathon does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Merida is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Marathon is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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).

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Marathon. There are restaurants with waterfront terraces, raw bars, and other seafood eateries where you can enjoy fresh caught fish for a reasonable price.

Is Merida or Marathon Better for Nightlife?

Merida is great for nightlife. Also, Marathon is not as popular, but is still a nice island for nightlife and partying.

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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Marathon. Popular nightlife venues include JJ’s Dog House & Sports Bar, Brass Monkey, and Cabana Club.

Is Merida or Marathon Better for Resorts?

Marathon is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Merida is not a resort destination.

Marathon is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. Popular resorts include Isla Bella Beach Resort and Tranquility Bay Resort.

Merida is not a resort destination.

Is Merida or Marathon Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

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

Marathon has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. There are many dive shops around Marathon and the area has dive spots that are great for every level. Some of the best sites are Sombrero Reef, Coffins Patch, and Thunderbolt wreck. There are also many snorkeling trips that head out to Sombrero Reef.

Merida is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Merida or Marathon Better for Beaches?

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

You'll have a great beach vacation in Marathon. Sombrero Beach is a popular spot for picnics, swimming and seeing the Loggerhead Turtles from April through October.

Merida is not a beach destination.

Is Merida or Marathon Better for its Old Town?

Merida is great for its historic old town. However, Marathon 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.

Marathon does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Merida or Marathon?

Merida is great for shopping. However, Marathon 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.

Marathon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Merida or Marathon More Beautiful?

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

With stunning beauty, Marathon attracts visitors from all around. The waters are blue and the setting is peaceful, making this area truly beautiful.

Merida is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Merida or Marathon Better for Families?

Marathon 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 Marathon. Kids will enjoy getting face-to-face with dolphins at the Dolphin Research Center. Families can also explore Pigeon Key or play in the water at Sombrero Beach. Families will find no shortage of activities on the island.

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 Marathon Better for Couples?

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

Marathon makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With beautiful views, 7 Mile Bridge, and plenty of activities, this area makes a romantic destination for couples. There are beaches and waterfront spots that offer a romantic setting for couples.

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 Marathon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Merida is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Marathon is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Merida is very popular with the backpacker crowd. 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.

Marathon is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Merida or Marathon 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, Marathon 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 limited or non-existant in Marathon. There's no real public transportation in town. A car is essential.

Is Merida or Marathon a more walkable city?

Merida is great for its walkability. However, Marathon is not a good destination for its high level of walkability.

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

Marathon is generally not very walkable. Shops and restaurants and spread out along a central road, making walking difficult to impossible.

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

Should I spend more time in Marathon or Merida?

How long in Merida or Marathon?

Both Merida and Marathon have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Marathon than in Merida. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Merida, and 3-7 days is enough time in Marathon.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Merida than Marathon 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 Marathon?

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.

Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the destination of Marathon. 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 Marathon?

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.

Marathon 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 Marathon?

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 Marathon. 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 Marathon?

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.

Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the quaint destination of Marathon. This island 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 Tours for Seniors to United States of America, and The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Merida or Marathon?

Merida has a larger population, and is about 70 times larger than the population of Marathon. When comparing the sizes of Merida and Marathon, 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 Marathon?

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 Marathon in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Merida and Marathon. The summer months attract visitors to Merida because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Marathon this time of year.

In the summer, Merida is cooler than Marathon. Typically, the summer temperatures in Merida in July average around 21°C (70°F), and Marathon averages at about 84°F (29°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Marathon this time of the year. In Merida, it's very sunny this time of the year. Merida usually receives less sunshine than Marathon during summer. Merida gets 254 hours of sunny skies, while Marathon receives 328 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Merida usually receives less rain than Marathon. Merida gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Marathon receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Merida or Marathon in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Merida as well as Marathon. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Merida this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Marathon for the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Merida is generally cooler than Marathon. Daily temperatures in Merida average around 21°C (70°F), and Marathon fluctuates around 80°F (27°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Marathon. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Merida this time of the year. In the autumn, Merida often gets less sunshine than Marathon. Merida gets 233 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Marathon receives 258 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Marathon. Merida receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Merida usually gets more rain in October than Marathon. Merida gets 210 mm (8.3 in) of rain, while Marathon receives 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Merida or Marathon in the Winter?

Both Marathon and Merida are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Merida for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Marathon in the winter for the cuisine.

Merida is around the same temperature as Marathon in the winter. The daily temperature in Merida averages around 20°C (68°F) in January, and Marathon fluctuates around 70°F (21°C).

It's quite sunny in Marathon. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Merida. Merida usually receives less sunshine than Marathon during winter. Merida gets 209 hours of sunny skies, while Marathon receives 252 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Merida usually receives less rain than Marathon. Merida gets 20 mm (0.8 in) of rain, while Marathon receives 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Merida or Marathon in the Spring?

Both Marathon and Merida during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Merida in the spring for the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Marathon for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Merida is cooler than Marathon. Typically, the spring temperatures in Merida in April average around 21°C (70°F), and Marathon averages at about 77°F (25°C).

In Marathon, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Merida. In the spring, Merida often gets less sunshine than Marathon. Merida gets 260 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Marathon receives 326 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Merida. Merida usually gets more rain in April than Marathon. Merida gets 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain, while Marathon receives 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Marathon and Merida