Visitors enjoy the city and harbour cruises, island hopping, the aquarium, botanical gardens, and strolling down the Malecon or seafront promenade. The old section of the city has several restored buildings dating back to Mazatlan's colonial past. Start at Plaza Revolucion, which has the beautiful Cathedral facing it. This Moorish-style church was built in 1890 and has stunning twin blue and gold spires and gilded triple altars.

In Náhuatl, the language of the Aztecs, Mazatlan means "land of the deer", a reference to the town’s association with the game. It later became an important harbour and port of call for gold and silver shipments from the nearby mines.

It has an international airport 20 km away with connecting flights to America and Europe. There are vans available by way of transport to the hotels from the airport and to get around the city you can use taxis, buses and rented cars and mopeds. One can come to this port city by sea in a ferry and also by road. If you are driving, make sure you have Mexican auto insurance papers.

The high-rise hotels and resorts are located between Playa las Gaviotas and Playa Sábalo They have picturesque views combined with comfortable rooms and free drinks. Cheaper hotels are situated downtown within a walking distance from the market. You can also live in a rented apartment or at the Trailer Park.

Fiesta nights at most restaurants are fun times. Gastronomic opportunities are evident in the Italian, Spanish, Mediterranean, Japanese and Mexican cuisine that is served in the restaurants. Nightlife comprises of dancing, live music, exotic drinks, posh discos and tropical extravagance. Late February or early March is the time for the pre Lent carnival celebration that is a Mexican style Mardi Gras with parades, fireworks, street dancing and other festivities.