Explore the Impressive Roman Ruins of Mérida, Spain

Visit the Roman Ruins

Mérida may be small and house a singular important aspect to see—its Roman ruins. However, the abundance of ancient remains here ensures visitors will have plenty to explore during their stay!

The size of Mérida means that walking from one ruin to another is a brief endeavor.

The bus and train stations are situated at opposite ends of the town. If arriving by bus, you will enter Mérida from the west. After crossing the River Guadiana, you will encounter the Zona Arqueológica de Morería. Turn right from here to reach the Alcazaba, a post-Roman fortress, and the Puente Romano, one of the longest bridges in the Roman world. Not far from Alcazaba is Plaza de España, a lively square featuring open-air bars and cafés, as well as nesting storks adorning the roofs.

Continuing east along c/Santa Eulalia, you will discover the Templo de Diana. A little further along are Mérida’s iconic structures—the Roman theater and amphitheater—alongside the National Museum of Roman Art and the ‘Casa de Anfiteatro’. From here, you may choose to continue north to the ancient hippodrome (the Circo Romano) or south towards the Roman graves and Casa del Mitreo excavation.

If arriving by train, it is logical to visit the Circo Romano first before making your way to the theater and amphitheater, concluding your tour in Plaza de España.

How to Get to Mérida

If traveling around Spain predominantly by train, consider checking out this Interactive Rail Map of Spain that enables you to discover travel times and ticket prices for your entire itinerary.

• From Madrid: The train journey takes about five hours and typically costs around 40 euros. The bus is slightly quicker and more affordable. Book your bus from Avanzabus.com. If driving, you can cover the 340 km distance in just over three hours.
• From Seville: There is one train per day that covers the journey in three-and-a-half hours at a cost of about 20 euros. The bus usually takes around two hours (though travel times may vary) and costs approximately 15 euros. Seats can be reserved from movelia.es. The drive from Seville to Mérida takes around two hours over a distance of 192 km.
• From Lisbon: Two buses operate daily from Mérida to Lisbon, with a travel time of about three hours, costing around 30 euros. Tickets are available on movelia.es. There is no train service available for this route.
• From Salamanca: The bus takes approximately four to five hours and costs around 20 euros. For reservations, visit movelia.es. Train service is not available.

When to Visit

During July and August, the Roman theater and amphitheater host performances, including Greek dramas and other exciting events.

Moreover, the city’s primary feria occurs in September.

Number of Days to Spend in Mérida

It is advisable to spend two days in Mérida. While it is a compact city, the plethora of Roman ruins makes it challenging to see everything in just one day. Viewing times are divided into two sessions, with the afternoon session frustratingly brief—just 2 hours and 15 minutes long. Therefore, arriving early to take full advantage of both sessions is essential, as a single day may prove exhausting.

Five Things to Do in Mérida

• The Roman Theater and Amphitheater: These excellently preserved venues are conveniently located side by side.
• The Roman Bridge (Puente Romano): Experienced as one of the longest bridges constructed by the Romans.
• The Templo de Diana: Discover the ruins of an ancient temple.
• Circo Romano Hippodrome: Explore the ruins of an ancient stadium where chariot races were once held. Be sure to also check out the nearby aqueduct—keep an eye out for storks!
• The Zona Arqueológica de Morería: Visit active archaeological dig sites.