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

Should you visit Merida or The Hamptons?

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

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

The Hamptons

The Hamptons is a lavish, wealthy, and opulent beach destination. The Hamptons offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and food. See The Hamptons travel costs.

Merida and The Hamptons: 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
  • Good public transit
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Merida or The Hamptons?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Merida than The Hamptons, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Merida is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, historical sights, and big city activities, while The Hamptons is more popular for its resorts, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty. Merida is more touristy than The Hamptons and is popular for its vibrant plazas, long running history, and colonial architecture. Also, Merida is famous for Grand Plaza. The Hamptons is well known for its long sandy beaches, charming seaside communities, opulent villas, and vacationing celebrities.

How is Merida different from The Hamptons?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Merida
The Hamptons

Merida is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, The Hamptons does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

The Hamptons does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Merida
The Hamptons

Merida is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, The Hamptons is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Merida makes for a great culinary experience. 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).

The Hamptons has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are a number of fine dining restaurants in the area and seafood is a favorite. Some restaurants are known to be frequented by vacationing celebrities, so if you're hoping to spot someone famous, do some research and you may have some luck.

Is Merida or The Hamptons Better for Nightlife?

Merida
The Hamptons

Merida is a great destination for nightlife. Also, The Hamptons is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

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.

If you're looking for night time activities The Hamptons has a few options to choose from. There are plenty of nightclubs and bars throughout the area. Head to East Hampton for some of the best options.

Is Merida or The Hamptons Better for Resorts?

Merida
The Hamptons

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

The Hamptons is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. Known as a hangout for the rich and famous, there is no shortage of luxury hotels and resorts in the area.

Merida is not a resort destination.


Is Merida or The Hamptons Better for Beaches?

Merida
The Hamptons

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

The Hamptons has a beach worth visiting. The beaches in the area feature long stretches of soft sand and plenty of space to spread out. Many beaches do come with a hefty price tag though as they require you to pay for parking or a permit.

Merida is not a beach destination.

Is Merida or The Hamptons Better for its Old Town?

Merida
The Hamptons

Merida is a great destination for its historic old town. However, The Hamptons does not have a historic old town.

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.

The Hamptons does not have a historic old town.

Is Merida or The Hamptons Better for Hiking?

Merida
The Hamptons

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

The Hamptons has hiking trails worth exploring. There are a number of picturesque walks through the dunes and wetlands around the area. There is plenty of peaceful nature to explore if you're looking for a break from city life.

Merida is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Merida or The Hamptons?

Merida
The Hamptons

The Hamptons is terrific for its shopping areas. Also, Merida is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many people travel to The Hamptons specifically to go shopping. Known as a playground for the rich and famous, you can be assured there are plenty of shopping opportunities where you can flash your cash around town.

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.

Is Merida or The Hamptons More Beautiful?

Merida
The Hamptons

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

The Hamptons offers plenty of beauty for visitors. For a beautiful, upscale setting, this is a great destination near NYC.

Merida is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Merida or The Hamptons Better for Families?

Merida
The Hamptons

Merida and The Hamptons 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 The Hamptons. The area has a family-friendly setting with many outdoor activities and a children's museum. There are music events, children's parks, small zoos, and, of course, the beach. Also make sure you pick up some ice cream and enjoy that quintessential beach experience.


Is Merida or The Hamptons Better for Couples?

Merida
The Hamptons

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

The Hamptons makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy beaches, dining out, and escaping the chaos of city life will enjoy a retreat here. The area has many beautiful parks and outdoor spaces, but there are also amazing restaurants that make for a great date night.

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 The Hamptons Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Merida
The Hamptons

Merida is a great destination for backpackers. However, The Hamptons is a beach destination with minimal options 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.

The Hamptons is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. It's more popular with the rich and famous than it is with the budget crowd, so you may struggle to find an affordable place to stay, much less a hostel.

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

Merida
The Hamptons

Merida is a city with good options for its public transit. However, The Hamptons is a beach destination with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

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.

Public transit is quite limited in The Hamptons. While there are trains between towns, there aren't many options when it comes to public transit.


Is Merida or The Hamptons a more walkable city?

Merida
The Hamptons

Merida is a great destination for its walkability. Also, The Hamptons is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

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

The Hamptons is a somewhat walkable place. While some of the towns offer a nice place for a stroll, most of the Hamptons is not very walkable and it's best to have a car.

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

Should I spend more time in The Hamptons or Merida?

How long in Merida or The Hamptons?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Merida than The Hamptons 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 The Hamptons? Ideal Length of Stay
    Merida 1-2 
    The Hamptons 3-7

One day in Merida or The Hamptons?

In Merida, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this traditional city offers. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of The Hamptons. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Merida or The Hamptons?

Merida is a fun place to experience. Visiting the old town is also a must. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

The Hamptons is a great place to explore. Don't miss the shopping, 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 The Hamptons?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historical destination of Merida. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in The Hamptons. Don't miss the shopping, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 The Hamptons?

Merida is a popular place to visit. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the wealthy destination of The Hamptons. This beach destination offers a variety of activities to choose from. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. 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 Cultural Tours in United States of America, and The Best Photography Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, The Hamptons 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
    The Hamptons Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Merida $99
    The Hamptons $267

The average daily cost (per person) in Merida is $99, while the average daily cost in The Hamptons is $267. 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 The Hamptons in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Merida $40
    The Hamptons $126
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Merida $80
    The Hamptons $252
Compare Hotels in Merida and The Hamptons

Looking for a hotel in Merida or The Hamptons? 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 The Hamptons


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
    The Hamptons $63

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Merida

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

  • Mérida International Airport (MID) to Merida hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $25
  • Mérida International Airport (MID) to Merida hotels - Roundtrip Private Transfer: $50
  • Merida Airport (MID) Private Transfer to Merida Centre: $40
  • Merida hotels to Mérida International Airport (MID) - Private Departure Transfer: $25
  • One-way Airport Transfers to Merida Hotels: $120
  • Private Airport Transfer from Mérida to Campeche: $292
  • Private Transfer From Merida to Uxmal, English Speaking Driver: $155
  • Private Transfer from Airport to Hotel in Merida One Way: $44
  • Private Transfer from Merida Airport(MID): $17
  • Private Transfer from Merida Rejon Airport (MID) to Progreso Port: $134
  • Private Transfer from Merida city hotels to Progreso Cruise Port: $134
  • Shared Shuttle Transfer from/to Merida Airport: $11

Is it cheaper to fly into Merida or The Hamptons?

Prices for flights to both The Hamptons 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
    The Hamptons $104

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Merida

For Merida, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Private Nandayo Food Tour: $39
  • 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
  • Wonders of the Mayab: Chichen Itza, Yokdzonot Cenote & Cooking Class: $237

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Merida $15
    The Hamptons $22
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:

  • Panoramic Sightseeing Bus City Tour of Merida with 2 Routes: $8.00
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour - Chichen Itza, the Greatness of the Mayas: $10
  • Uxmal Ruins Guided Tour with a Certified Guide: $16
  • Historical, Cultural, and Artistic Tour of Downtown Merida: $17
  • Walking Tour Across the Historic Center in Merida: $22
  • Uxmal Archeological Site Guided Walking Tour with Entry Fee: $28
  • Mike&Duck Walking Tour Merida: $30
  • Mérida Private Walking Tour with a Local: $35
  • Yucatan Cuisine Tasting Tour Merida : $35
  • Private Merida Tour on a Budget - Best Rated : $37
  • Private Tour Guide in Merida, 100% customisable : $39
  • 3 Hours Private Tour in Merida, you choose!: $39

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Merida $14
    The Hamptons $31

Sample the Local Flavors in Merida

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Merida:

  • Brewery Tour and Beer Tasting | Tour y Degustación de Cerveza: $46


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


Which is Bigger, Merida or The Hamptons?

Merida has a larger population, and is about 170 times larger than the population of The Hamptons. When comparing the sizes of Merida and The Hamptons, 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 The Hamptons?

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 The Hamptons in the Summer?

Both The Hamptons and Merida during the summer are popular places to visit. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Merida this time of year. Also, many travelers come to The Hamptons for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Merida is cooler than The Hamptons. Typically, the summer temperatures in Merida in July average around 21°C (70°F), and The Hamptons averages at about 76°F (25°C).

The Hamptons gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Merida usually gets less rain in July than The Hamptons. Merida gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while The Hamptons receives 4.1 inches (104 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Merida 21°C (70°F) 
    The Hamptons 76°F (25°C)

Should I visit Merida or The Hamptons in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Merida and The Hamptons. Many travelers come to Merida for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to The Hamptons in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Merida is generally a little warmer than The Hamptons. Daily temperatures in Merida average around 21°C (70°F), and The Hamptons fluctuates around 58°F (14°C).

Merida gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Merida usually receives more rain than The Hamptons. Merida gets 210 mm (8.3 in) of rain, while The Hamptons receives 3 inches (77 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Merida 21°C (70°F) 
    The Hamptons 58°F (14°C)

Should I visit Merida or The Hamptons in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Merida as well as The Hamptons. Many visitors come to Merida in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to The Hamptons for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months.

The Hamptons can be very cold during winter. Merida is much warmer than The Hamptons in the winter. The daily temperature in Merida averages around 20°C (68°F) in January, and The Hamptons fluctuates around 31°F (-0°C).

Merida usually gets less rain in January than The Hamptons. Merida gets 20 mm (0.8 in) of rain, while The Hamptons receives 3.2 inches (81 mm) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Merida or The Hamptons in the Spring?

Both The Hamptons and Merida are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Merida for the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to The Hamptons because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Merida is much warmer than The Hamptons. Typically, the spring temperatures in Merida in April average around 21°C (70°F), and The Hamptons averages at about 51°F (11°C).

It's quite rainy in Merida. In April, Merida usually receives more rain than The Hamptons. Merida gets 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain, while The Hamptons receives 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Merida 21°C (70°F) 
    The Hamptons 51°F (11°C)

Typical Weather for The Hamptons and Merida

Merida The Hamptons
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 20°C (68°F) 20 mm (0.8 in) 31°F (-0°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm)
Feb 20°C (68°F) 50 mm (2 in) 33°F (1°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Mar 21°C (70°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 41°F (5°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Apr 21°C (70°F) 150 mm (5.9 in) 51°F (11°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
May 22°C (72°F) 190 mm (7.5 in) 62°F (17°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Jun 21°C (70°F) 140 mm (5.5 in) 71°F (22°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Jul 21°C (70°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 76°F (25°C) 4.1 inches (104 mm)
Aug 21°C (70°F) 130 mm (5.1 in) 75°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (95 mm)
Sep 21°C (70°F) 190 mm (7.5 in) 68°F (20°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Oct 21°C (70°F) 210 mm (8.3 in) 58°F (14°C) 3 inches (77 mm)
Nov 21°C (70°F) 140 mm (5.5 in) 47°F (9°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm)
Dec 20°C (68°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 37°F (3°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)