The Yucatán is famous for hammocks, Panama hats, huipiles or embroidered women's blouses, guayabera shirts, and a variety of items made from henequén. Mérida's main shopping districts lie east and south of the zócalo, on Calles 57 and 59 between Calles 54 and 64. Or you may prefer to explore the Mercado García Rejón, an enormous handicrafts market southeast of the zócalo, with stall after stall of Yucatecan crafts at good prices.

But for a true taste of the Yucatán, browse the Mercado Municipal, a maze-like conglomeration of stalls selling just about everything. Plus, each Sunday you'll find special markets to shop, including the Bazaar of Arts and Crafts at Parque Centenario and the Antique and Crafts Bazaar at Parque de Santa Lucia. Businesses in Mérida stay open through the day, but some do close for a siesta (midday break) during the hottest months of July and August.