Merida, Spain is a beautiful and vibrant city located in the south-west of the country. It is the capital of the Spanish region of Extremadura and is known for its spectacular Roman ruins, its diverse culture, and its stunning architecture. Merida is an excellent destination for travelers looking to explore the rich history of the region and experience the warm hospitality of its people.
Merida was founded in 25 BC by the Roman Emperor Augustus and is home to some of the best-preserved Roman ruins in the world. These ruins include the Roman theater, a temple dedicated to the goddess Diana, and a bridge over the Guadiana River. Visitors can also explore the old town, which is filled with historical buildings, monuments, and churches.
The city is also home to a variety of cultural attractions, such as the National Archaeological Museum of Merida, which houses a vast collection of artifacts from the Roman era, as well as the Roman Circus. Additionally, Merida hosts a number of festivals throughout the year, including the International Festival of Classical Theater and the International Folklore Festival.
Merida is a great destination for travelers who want to combine sightseeing and exploration with relaxation and leisure. The city has plenty of shops, restaurants, and cafes, as well as a number of beautiful parks and gardens. The climate is mild and pleasant, making Merida an ideal place to visit at any time of year.
| Rank | Booking Site | Price Compared to Average | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Cheapest | Booking.com | -4% | |
| 2. Cheap | Hotels.com | -2% | |
| 3. Average | Expedia | -1% | |
| 4. More Expensive | Agoda | 1% | |
| 5. Most Expensive | Trip.com | 3% |
1. Old Town (Centro Historico): The historical center of Merida, the Old Town is one of the most popular areas to stay in the city. It is home to many of the city's most important monuments, such as the Roman Theatre, Roman Amphitheatre, and Temple of Diana. It is also full of charming cobblestone streets, traditional restaurants, and local shops.
2. San Lorenzo: Located just a few minutes' walk from the Old Town, San Lorenzo is an up-and-coming area of Merida, with a growing selection of bars and restaurants. There are plenty of high quality accommodation options here, and it's a great place for people who want to be close to the city center but away from the hustle and bustle.
3. La Ribera: La Ribera is a lively area in the heart of Merida, filled with restaurants, bars, and shops. It is also home to some of the city's best nightlife, and is a great base for those who want to explore Merida's nightlife scene.
4. Alcazaba: Alcazaba is a more residential area of Merida, located just outside the Old Town. It's a quieter and more relaxed area, and is perfect for families or those looking for a more laid-back atmosphere.
5. San Cristobal: San Cristobal is a residential area located between the Old Town and La Ribera. It's a great place to stay if you're looking for somewhere close to the city center but a bit quieter than the busy areas. It's also home to some of Merida's best restaurants and bars.
1. Plaza de España: This is a beautiful plaza in the heart of Merida, with a stunning fountain and monument to the Spanish Civil War.
2. Roman Theatre: Dating back to the 1st century BC, this theatre is one of the best preserved of its kind in the world.
3. Alcazaba: This is a magnificent Moorish fortress built in the 10th century.
4. Santa Eulalia Church: This is a stunning Roman Catholic Church which was constructed in the 16th century.
5. Temple of Diana: This is an ancient Roman temple dating back to the 1st century BC, which stands in the archaeological zone of Merida.
1. Gazpacho: A cold tomato-based soup that is popular in the summer. It is typically made with vegetables such as garlic, onion, cucumber, peppers, and olive oil.
2. Jamon Iberico: A type of cured ham that is made from Iberian pigs and is highly prized for its nutty flavor and texture.
3. Papas Arrugadas: A traditional Spanish dish made from potatoes boiled in salted water. The potatoes are served with a spicy mojo sauce.
4. Huevos Rotos: A popular tapas dish made with fried eggs and potatoes. The potatoes are fried in olive oil and the eggs are served on top.
5. Queso Manchego: A type of cheese made from sheep’s milk and aged for a minimum of two months. It has a strong, nutty flavor and is often served with tapas or as part of a cheese platter.