We're visiting the Mayan Riviera in January, and planning to drive to Merida for 4 days. I was told today that 4 days is too long, and we should spend more time on the beach (where we've been MANY times). I was really looking forward to Merida. Anyone have any opinions on this?
Thanks!

How long one stays in a given place is entirely dependent on the kind of experience that's being sought. I've been thinking about renting an apartment or small house in Merida because I like staying put to maybe see beneath the surface a bit of what one might see by staying for just 4 days. So from my point of view 4 days is a very short stay, hardly worth it. But it may be too long for others and I think only you can answer the question.

One approach I've used on occasion is to go, knowing I have, say, 4 days and if it doesn't come together for me I move on. One need not always decide in advance when the decision is based on unknowns. I say give it try.

If you're a city person than 4 days wouldn't be too long - as above, might not be enough. There are dozens of beautiful churches, walkable avenues, and museums. Weekends the local parks feature lots of music which I loved during a brief stop there in 2010. Frankly, we liked Valladolid better - lovely parque central, terrific cenotes, nice market, smaller and quieter, great access to Chichén Itzá and Ek Balám. From there we headed north to the coast village of San Felipe where we enjoyed tarpon fishing and thousands of flamingos. My photos and recommendations are below. Happy trails!
http://www.flickr.com/photos/staceyholeman/collections

As joannay and hopefulist say, it really depends on your interests. I enjoyed Merida very much, but found 2 days there more than enough for my interests. Note, however, that I spent several more days in the area - nearly 2 days exploring the Ruta Puuc (I stayed overnight at The Flycatcher Inn - loved it!), a day in/around Izamal, and a day in Celestun. Izamal and Celestun would have been easy day trips from Merida, although I think seeing the Ruta Puuc from Merida without an overnight stop closer to Uxmal would make for a couple of VERY long, frustrating days. Hope that helps!

yucatantoday.com

Merida is a pretty colonial city

but pretty underwhelming after a couple of days

Palenque other ruins awesome for me...

I've yet to make it to Merida but am very interested in it. I'd consider an entire vacation there myself (a week or more). I think this is one of those questions, other people's opinions won't necessarily be your own experience.

I think that because you have been to the beaches many times, you should spend the 4 days in Merida. If you wanted more beach time, you'd already know that, right?

Definitely go to Merida.

With 4 days, I would first stop at Chichen Itza on your way to Merida unless you have been there before. See the ruins and then stay overnight to break up the drive. I liked the Hacienda Chichen.

Then drive to Merida. There is a highway but the old road is much more interesting as it goes though some little Mayan villages. Beware of topes though!

3 nights in Merida. 3 nights might be a little long but it will allow you to go slow. I liked the Casa del Balam. Uxmal is gorgeous and would make a nice day trip - about 1 1/2 hours away, maybe a little more.

Another idea - much busier - is an overnight in Chichen Itza, an overnight in Merida, then drive to Campeche, which is really pretty and intereasting - an old pirate town. Overnight there, then back to Merida (via Uxmal maybe?) for your last overnight before heading back to the beach.

I don't know what your overall itinerary is, but you might consider flying open jaw into Cancun or wherever, and out of Merida.

Thanks for all of your suggestions! We are going to stay 4 nights in a wonderful looking home. I figured we could take some day trips if we got bored. Appreciate your help!