From Córdoba, we took a pleasant 4-hour bus journey through picturesque Andalusian countryside, dotted with the classic whitewashed villages on hilltops, and arrived in Mérida — our last stop in Spain before heading to Lisbon.

Founded by the Romans in 25 BC as Emerita Augusta, Mérida served as a retirement colony for veteran soldiers. The city is home to one of the finest collections of Roman ruins in Spain, including an amphitheater, a magnificent theater, a circus, and ancient aqueducts.

Unfortunately, many of the archaeological sites were closed during our visit due to the season. Still, we could wander around the perimeter, peer through the fences, and appreciate the scale and grandeur of these historic treasures. The Roman heritage is visible throughout the city, giving Mérida a special atmosphere.

Among the most impressive sights are the Roman Theatre, which is still used for performances today, and the Amphitheater, once the venue for gladiatorial contests. The towering Aqueduct of Los Milagros and the elegant Temple of Diana with its imposing columns are also standout landmarks that highlight Mérida’s rich Roman past.

Since many sites were closed, we used the time productively to catch up on work. Our accommodation, La Flor de Al’Andalus, turned out to be a wonderful surprise. Marketed as a hostel, it was actually far superior — offering large private rooms, en-suite bathrooms, excellent Wi-Fi, and a convenient location within easy walking distance from the bus station and the town center. It felt more like a boutique hotel than a hostel.

We also found a fantastic little tapas bar (located on the street behind the main square) that filled up with locals in the evening. Their croquettes and cod were outstanding, making it our go-to spot during our stay.