All about Mercado San Sebastián in Mérida (2025 Guide)

I’m not exactly sure why, but I just love wandering around markets. I don’t even need to buy anything – I just enjoy soaking up the atmosphere and seeing what’s out there.

The San Sebastián Market is a small local food market with simple, inexpensive eateries. Together with the nearby Parroquia de San Sebastián and the adjacent Parque de San Sebastián, it forms the heart of the San Sebastián district in Mérida.

The market hall is a bit outside the city center, tucked right into the corner of Calle 70 and Calle 77. From Plaza Grande, it’s about a 2 km walk heading southwest. If you're already nearby, it's worth stopping in for a quick bite.

San Sebastián Market – Yes or No?

Honestly, I wouldn’t recommend making a special trip just for the market itself. Over the years, it's become a bit run-down and has lost much of its former relevance. These days, it mainly serves locals and doesn't have much to offer for visitors.

That said, the surrounding neighborhood is a different story and absolutely worth checking out. San Sebastián is one of Mérida's oldest and most authentic barrios, full of charm and local color.

Food at the Market

You can get basic Yucatecan dishes here, similar to what you'd find at most markets in Mérida. There are a few food stalls set up right along both streets in front of the main market hall, with tables and chairs - nothing fancy, but just right for a quick bite.

You can also grab a seat inside the market hall if you prefer. Last time I stopped by, I had some tacos. Tacos are always a safe bet – they come in all sorts of variations and are great for a snack between meals.

Another classic you’ll find here is huevos motuleños, a Yucatecan breakfast dish with eggs on tortillas, black beans, tomato sauce, and cheese, sometimes topped with ham or peas. It’s named after the nearby town of Motul.

Eating in a local market like this can be a very down-to-earth and authentic experience. If you know a bit of Spanish, it’s also a nice way to chat with locals and get a feel for everyday life in Mérida.

San Sebastián’s Local Charm

As previously noted, the San Sebastián neighborhood (Barrio de San Sebastián) stands as one of Mérida's oldest and most traditional districts.

Its roots trace back to an ancient Mayan village situated southwest of Mérida, which later adopted the name San Sebastián during the colonial era.

Legend has it that Montejo's troops may have traversed through this area on their journey to T'ho. Within the neighborhood lies the small Parque de San Sebastián and the more impressive Parroquia de San Sebastián.

The neighborhood stands out for its vividly colored houses. It is also celebrated for its culinary heritage, being the birthplace of Panuchos and home to the Festival del Pib, which showcases a traditional Yucatecan dish closely tied to Hanal Pixan (Day of the Dead).

By the way, the festivals in Mérida, such as Hanal Pixan, are a great opportunity to immerse yourself in the culture. Make sure to check out what's happening during your visit, as the city hosts a variety of events.

Parroquia de San Sebastián

If you visit the San Sebastián Market, make sure to take a look at the church too. Parroquia de San Sebastián is one of the oldest churches in Mérida, originally built in the 16th century on top of a former Maya temple.

Its current look dates back to the late 1700s and features colonial-style architecture with a three-tiered bell gable and a simple but elegant stone façade.

Inside, the church is bright and airy with neoclassical details, high vaulted ceilings, and a peaceful atmosphere centered around a statue of the Virgin Mary. 

Originally called the Ermita de Nuestra Señora del Buen Viaje, its location near the royal road to Campeche likely inspired its original name. Every August, the Patron Saint is celebrated with annual pilgrimages and regional parades.

Image Source (parroquia): ©Misael Lavadores, wiki commons, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link

The picture was modified (resized, image improvements)