Old Mazatlan in Mazatlan, Mexico

Visitors looking for more than sun and sand in Mazatlan will be delighted to know that the city has a rich history. There are several areas of the city that still maintain a quaint charm from a bygone time which will be of great interest to such visitors. The presence of tourism is having noticeable effects on Mazatlan, even though the city does not depend entirely on the trade, it is hard to get away from the effects tourists have on an area. Outside of the Zona Dorada, which contains many of the hotels and other places that tourists frequent, is another Mazatlan.

Old Mazatlan has many buildings and landmarks that tell of a unique history and for those that have an afternoon to spend will love the walking tours or just the chance to explore independently. The benefits of walking tours will be an experienced guide that will be able to answer any questions and be a source of amusing and interesting anecdotes. These tours normally run for three or four hours though some tours can vary in time. If sightseeing and a stroll is all that is wanted, the quiet solitude of independently exploring the city will be best.

The center of Old Mazatlan is the market area which is always busy as shoppers quest for needed or coveted items at each shop and vendor. It is easy to get lost among the flutter of commerce here and an entire day may be worth dedicating to browse the goods.

After resisting the call of the market, Old Mazatlan really opens up with its many buildings that date back to the late 1800s and the early 1900s. The Cathedral of Immaculate Conception is an astounding example of architecture and was completed in the 1850s. From here the Parque Revolution and Plaza Machado can be reached. Both of these have very interesting histories.

Old Mazatlan is also home to many cafes and small restaurants which provide a secluded place for lunch or a cup of coffee. The afternoon will slip quickly into evening as you stroll along the streets taking in the sights and smells of Old Mazatlan.