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

Should you visit Merida or Vancouver?

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

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

Vancouver

Vancouver is a outdoorsy, scenic, and diverse city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. With stunning beauty, Vancouver attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Vancouver travel costs.

Merida and Vancouver: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Merida or Vancouver?

You'll generally find more things to do in Vancouver than Merida. Vancouver is bigger than Merida, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Vancouver is better known for its museums and attractions, hiking, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Merida is more popular for its historical sights. Merida is well known for its vibrant plazas, long running history, and colonial architecture. Vancouver is well known for its beautiful setting, sweeping views, and welcoming atmosphere. Also, Vancouver is famous for Stanley Park.

How is Merida different from Vancouver?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Vancouver is terrific for its museums and history. Also, Merida is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Vancouver has many famous sights for visitors. There are tons of museums and sights around town such as the Vancouver Aquarium, the Museum of Anthropology, the Museum of Vancouver, and Science World. Also make sure you take a walk over the Capilano Suspension Bridge.

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.

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

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

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, Vancouver makes for a great culinary experience. You'll find diverse restaurants and fresh ingredients. Local seafood is a staple in many restaurants so make sure you try the prawns, salmon, and even sea urchin. Asian food is also excellent around town. Sushi, Japanese hot dogs, and dim sum are all worth sampling.

Is Merida or Vancouver Better for Nightlife?

Both Merida and Vancouver have great vibes after the sun sets.

Merida has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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.

The people in Vancouver know how to have a good time. The city has a vibrant nightlife scene. Most of the activity is centered around The Granville Entertainment District in the downtown area. It runs along Granville Street between Robson Street and Davie Street. In the area you'll find a high concentration of bars and nightclubs.

Is Merida or Vancouver Better for its Old Town?

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

Vancouver does not have a historic old town.

Is Merida or Vancouver Better for Hiking?

Vancouver is terrific for its hiking trails. However, Merida is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Vancouver draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. The city is surrounded by water and mountains, making it one of the best hiking cities in the world. You don't have to go far to enjoy spectacular vistas, serene rainforests, and rugged coastline. The trails range from casual strolls to more strenuous day long hikes.

Merida is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Merida or Vancouver?

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

Many people travel to Vancouver specifically to go shopping. The shopping is as diverse as the city itself. You can enjoy strolling through Chinatown, hitting up a public market, or wandering around a large shopping mall.

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 Vancouver More Beautiful?

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

With stunning beauty, Vancouver attracts visitors from all around. It sits between the Pacific Ocean and high reaching mountains, so the city offers spectacular views.

Merida is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Merida or Vancouver Better for Families?

Vancouver 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 Vancouver. There are great kid-friendly museums like the Science Museum, as well as outdoor markets, public parks, and easy access to the nearby nature. A visit to Grouse Mountain is a must for many families. You can see the bears, take a gondola, and see the a lumberjack show.

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 Vancouver Better for Couples?

Vancouver is terrific for couples. Also, Merida is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Vancouver has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Most of the activities take advantage of the beautiful outdoor setting. You can take a carriage ride in Stanley Park or visit the Sun Yat Sen Chinese Garden. Eat dim sum in Chinatown and then wander through the diverse neighborhood. End the day with a show at Orpheum Theater.

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 Vancouver Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Merida and Vancouver are both great 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 Vancouver. It's a favorite city for backpackers who enjoy the many outdoor activities. There are also many hostels available around town.

Is Merida or Vancouver Better for Students?

Vancouver is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Merida is not popular with students.

Vancouver is a great city to visit as a student. The cities friendly personality and fun energy make it a great place to study.

Merida is not popular with students.

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

Vancouver is terrific for times when you don't have a car. Also, Merida is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Vancouver can take you anywhere. Public transit is efficient and comfortable. The Translink system includes buses, the SeaBus ferry, and the SkyTrain light rail system.

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.

Is Merida or Vancouver a more walkable city?

Vancouver is terrific for its ease of walking around. Also, Merida is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Vancouver. The downtown area is very compact and fun to explore on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Vancouver or Merida?

How long in Merida or Vancouver?

In either Merida or Vancouver, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Vancouver than Merida because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Merida, and 3-5 days is enough time in Vancouver.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Vancouver than Merida 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 Vancouver.

One day in Merida or Vancouver?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Merida. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Merida has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Vancouver is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Merida or Vancouver?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the traditional destination of Merida. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Vancouver 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 Vancouver?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historical city of Merida. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. 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 Vancouver. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Vancouver?

Merida is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the outdoorsy big city of Vancouver. This city 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 10-Day Tours from Vancouver, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Canada.

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

Which is Bigger, Merida or Vancouver?

Vancouver has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Merida. When comparing the sizes of Merida and Vancouver, 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 Vancouver?

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 Vancouver in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Merida and Vancouver. Many travelers come to Merida for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Vancouver in the summer for the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Merida is a little warmer than Vancouver. Typically, the summer temperatures in Merida in July average around 21°C (70°F), and Vancouver averages at about 18°C (64°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Vancouver this time of the year. In Merida, it's very sunny this time of the year. Merida usually receives less sunshine than Vancouver during summer. Merida gets 254 hours of sunny skies, while Vancouver receives 296 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Merida usually receives more rain than Vancouver. Merida gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Vancouver receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Merida or Vancouver in the Autumn?

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

In October, Merida is generally much warmer than Vancouver. Daily temperatures in Merida average around 21°C (70°F), and Vancouver fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Merida this time of the year. In the autumn, Merida often gets more sunshine than Vancouver. Merida gets 233 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Vancouver receives 124 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Vancouver. Merida receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Merida usually gets more rain in October than Vancouver. Merida gets 210 mm (8.3 in) of rain, while Vancouver receives 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Merida or Vancouver in the Winter?

Both Vancouver 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 Vancouver because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Vancouver can be very cold. Merida is much warmer than Vancouver in the winter. The daily temperature in Merida averages around 20°C (68°F) in January, and Vancouver fluctuates around 4°C (40°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Merida. Merida usually receives more sunshine than Vancouver during winter. Merida gets 209 hours of sunny skies, while Vancouver receives 55 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Vancouver. In January, Merida usually receives less rain than Vancouver. Merida gets 20 mm (0.8 in) of rain, while Vancouver receives 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Merida or Vancouver in the Spring?

Both Vancouver 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 activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Vancouver this time of year.

In the spring, Merida is much warmer than Vancouver. Typically, the spring temperatures in Merida in April average around 21°C (70°F), and Vancouver averages at about 9°C (49°F).

It's quite sunny in Merida. In the spring, Merida often gets more sunshine than Vancouver. Merida gets 260 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Vancouver receives 172 hours of full sun.

Vancouver 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 Vancouver. Merida gets 150 mm (5.9 in) of rain, while Vancouver receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Vancouver and Merida