I stayed at El Gran Hotel for one week in July 2007. I loved this hotel for its location and its turn-of-the-century building and decor.

The hotel is perfectly located less than a block from the main zocalo in the historic center of Merida. If you have a car, there is no parking at the hotel but there are several pay lots a block or two away.

The hotel is in a beautiful 1900 building and is decorated with turn of the century furniture and antiques. Our room was quite large with two large wooden French doors opening up to two separate balconies. The room had one king bed, high ceilings, nice woodwork, beautiful old tile floors, and was furnished with antiques. The bathroom was small and functional with the sink/mirror area outside of the bathroom.

The hotel was clean and well cared for and the staff were friendly.

The only negative I can think of is that in the extreme July heat the air conditioner in our room wasn't powerful enough to cool the room as much as I'd have liked, probably due to the very high ceilings.

I would definitely stay at this hotel again the next time I am in Merida.

We found this hotel a bit by accident looking for accomodation after arriving very late in town. The hotel staff were very helpful assisting us with parking (which can be a bit of an issue down town) and speeding our registration so we could catch some dinner and rest. The place is an amazing and well preserved in a turn of the century style - truly magnificent.
It benefits from a great location nearby all local attractions and night life.

Received a recommendation from local and wasn't disappointed. We always ask to see a room before we book - we had a great room on the square with a balcony. Good beds, nice and clean, air conditioning. Hotel built in 1910 but has been remodeled. Very charming - close to all the sights downtown. Give it a try!!!

Great location, in the center of the Historic District...lots of restaurants, bars, plazas to visit, with live music several nights a week. This hotel is one of the original colonial structures in the city...although some of the rooms are a bit small, the long elegant windows makeup for the lack of space. Although the textiles are a bit outdated, the mattress and pillows are good. The bathrooms are small, simple, but adequate. Be aware though, there are many steps which you must walk up to your room ...no elevators. Rosie at the front desk was delightful and very helpful. as was the rest of the hotel staff. The only drawback to this hotel...we were unable to book our reservation online! A friend in Merida had to book the room for us.