Step into Old Mazatlan, where 19th-century colonial charm still lingers in weathered facades, cobblestone alleys, and church spires—every brick whispers tales of seafarers and trade, turning this historic district into a living museum you can walk through and feel. It’s not just a landmark; it’s an open book of Mexico’s maritime soul.

Everything you need to know about Old Mazatlan
Hotel La Casona de la Ciudad is a top choice, housed in a century-old colonial building with authentic Mexican architectural details and modern amenities. Located steps from the Plaza de Armas and the Boulevard del Pescador, it offers easy access to historic sites like the Iglesia de la Asunción.
For ocean views, Casa del Mar features sea-facing rooms overlooking the Bay of California, with an open-air restaurant serving fresh seafood and local tequila cocktails. The hotel is just 15 minutes from Mazatlán International Airport via taxi, and city buses connect directly to Old Town.
Must-try experiences include a morning stroll through the cobbled streets for traditional Tacos al Pastor, or joining a guided evening tour to explore Mazatlán’s rich maritime trade history and vibrant folk art heritage.
The most convenient option is taking a taxi, which takes about 15 minutes and costs between $200–$300 MXN ($10–$15 USD), with direct drop-off at your hotel. For budget travelers, city buses (Lines 7 & 9) run from the airport to Old Town every 20–30 minutes, costing only $15 MXN, though a short walk is required to reach your destination.
Many hotels, including Hotel La Casona de la Ciudad, offer complimentary shuttle service—check during HopeGoo. Additionally, ride-hailing apps like Didi México are increasingly available, ideal for small groups with transparent pricing and reliable drivers.
Avoid late-night travel due to limited street lighting in parts of Old Town. Use apps like Google Maps to track real-time vehicle location and ensure a smooth journey.
Old Mazatlan is a cultural gem on Mexico’s Pacific coast, offering immersive experiences rooted in history and tradition. Don’t miss the weekend artisan markets in the Plaza de Armas, where local craftsmen sell handmade pottery, embroidery, and wooden masks—many visitors even join workshops to create their own traditional Mexican masks.
Every October, the Fiesta de Mazatlán transforms the city: expect torchlight processions, folk music performances, and a spectacular beach fireworks display celebrating the region’s deep connection to the sea.
Also highly recommended is a sunset walking tour led by local guides, exploring hidden alleys and sharing stories of 19th-century merchant families who shaped the city’s prosperity. End the experience at a century-old café, sipping authentic Mexican black coffee and enjoying Pan Dulce.
These activities provide genuine insight into Old Mazatlan’s cultural soul and historical depth.
For families, Hotel Casa de los Delfines is an excellent choice, featuring a swimming pool, kids’ playroom, and family-themed rooms with cribs and child-sized tableware. Located steps from Mazatlán Beach, children can safely splash in shallow waters while parents relax nearby.
Another great option is Hotel El Mirador, offering city and ocean views from spacious, well-equipped rooms with kitchenettes—ideal for longer stays. The hotel hosts family-friendly activities such as treasure hunts and beach ecology lessons, blending fun with learning.
Both properties offer free parking, 24-hour concierge services, and are within a 5-minute walk of Old Town Plaza and the Historic Museum. Nearby restaurants like La Terraza del Mar welcome families with healthy kids’ meals and non-alcoholic drinks.
Hotel Casa de los Abuelos is a top choice nestled in the heart of Old Mazatlan, housed in a restored colonial-era building. Its rooms feature handmade ceramic tiles, original wooden furnishings, and some offer direct views of the Church of Our Lady of the Assumption's spire. Located just a 5-minute walk from the waterfront promenade, guests enjoy morning fishing boat arrivals and evening traditional Mexican music performances in the streets.
Another standout is Casa del Mar Hotel, situated steps from the old port dock, offering private sea-view balconies and exclusive local seafood cooking workshops where visitors can learn to prepare the iconic "Pescado a la Talla" (grilled fish). All accommodations are within the pedestrian-friendly historic district, making it easy to explore colorful colonial facades, century-old markets, and art galleries without needing a car.
Both properties excel in cultural immersion, providing authentic experiences of Mazatlan’s rich heritage and coastal charm.
Old Mazatlan is highly walkable, with all major attractions within a 15-minute stroll. For longer distances, electric tuk-tuks or shared e-scooters cost only $10–20 MXN per trip—ideal for reaching San Ignacio Beach (15 min), the Old Port Dock (5 min), or the Alvaro Castillo Museum (8 min).
For a scenic experience, rent a bicycle and ride along the seawall boulevard, passing by vintage car exhibitions and outdoor cafés. The city also offers free shuttle buses daily from 9 AM to 6 PM, connecting the historic district with key hotels, Santiago Plaza, and the Central Market.
Guided tours often include coastal hikes, fishing village visits, and local cooking classes or sunset sailboat excursions, which can be booked in advance for a more immersive experience.
Old Mazatlan is a vibrant cultural hub offering distinctive experiences. Attend the annual Día de Muertos festival in November, when streets are adorned with marigolds and candles, and locals host altars and night parades, allowing visitors to participate and understand symbolic traditions.
Every Saturday, visit the Santiago Plaza artisan market, featuring handmade silver jewelry, woven baskets, and ceramics, with artisans demonstrating techniques live. Another unique option: join a fishermen’s storytelling session at the Old Port, where veteran seafarers share ancient fishing methods and marine ecology knowledge.
A hidden gem is the Night Light Theater held in an abandoned warehouse near the dock, using projection mapping and local legends to dramatize Mazatlan’s maritime past. These immersive activities provide deep insight into the community’s values, heritage, and emotional connection to the sea.
Hotel Casa de los Abuelos is ideal for families, offering courtyard-style rooms with private gardens and dedicated play areas, plus free cribs and children’s bathrobes. The property features a family-friendly guide map leading to the beach sandbox and a mini zoo housing lizards and turkeys.
The restaurant serves a kids’ menu with staples like cheese-filled tortillas and fruit skewers, and hosts monthly parent-child cooking workshops teaching how to make tamales. Additionally, the hotel runs family storytelling nights in both Spanish and English, sharing local folktales.
Its prime location—just a 5-minute walk from Santiago Plaza and the Central Market—ensures safe exploration for children while parents enjoy a welcoming, pedestrian-friendly neighborhood. The design emphasizes family comfort and cultural inclusivity, making it a top choice for multi-generational stays.
See what other travelers say about Old Mazatlan

Staying at Hotel de Cima was an absolutely unforgettable experience—everything exceeded my expectations. The service was outstanding, the location was perfect, and the price was incredibly reasonable. What truly stood out was the owner’s kindness and genuine care. I learned that back in 1963, during a hurricane, he personally offered my parents an extra night’s stay to keep them from traveling on dangerous roads. That act of compassion has stayed with our family for generations. This isn’t just a hotel—it’s a place with heart. If you’re ever in Mazatlán, this is the only choice. A true gem.

Staying at this hotel in the golden zone was an absolute delight. Even though we only spent one night, the experience was unforgettable. The Hacienda Mazatlán Sea View truly lives up to its reputation—elegant, comfortable, and impeccably maintained. Our room had a stunning ocean view that made waking up every morning a joy. The staff were warm and attentive without being intrusive, and the location is perfect—just steps away from local restaurants, shops, and the beach. It’s rare to find a property that offers such luxury and comfort at this level, especially for a short stay. I’d highly recommend it to anyone visiting Mazatlán. This isn’t just a place to sleep—it’s a true getaway.

Excellent service from a friendly and helpful staff throughout our stay. The pools were clean and well-maintained, and the breakfast was surprisingly good—fresh, varied, and satisfying. The only minor issue was that the in-room TVs had an unstable internet connection, which made streaming content a bit frustrating at times. That said, it didn’t take away from the overall great experience. The hotel’s location, comfort, and value make it a standout choice for anyone visiting Mazatlán.

Staying at the Holiday Inn Resort Mazatlan was an absolute delight! The room offered an unbeatable ocean view—every morning felt like waking up in a postcard. The breakfast spread was delicious and varied, with fresh local touches like handmade tortillas and tropical fruit juices that made for a perfect start to the day. Just steps away from the hotel, there are plenty of great restaurants offering authentic Mexican flavors—some even have outdoor seating right on the beachfront. The sandy beach itself is pristine, soft underfoot, and perfect for long walks or just lounging in the sun. Staff were friendly and mostly fluent in English, making communication smooth and welcoming. From the moment we arrived to the time we checked out, everything felt effortless and well-organized. This resort truly delivers on comfort, location, and hospitality—definitely a top choice for anyone visiting Mazatlán.

I'm already planning my next visit! The value for money is outstanding, and the location makes getting around town super convenient. I was especially happy to see that pets are welcome—great for travelers like me who travel with their furry friends. The mattress is firm, which some might find too hard, but it worked well for me. Everything else about the stay was excellent—clean rooms, friendly staff, and a welcoming atmosphere. Definitely a place I’d return to without hesitation.

We checked in at Hotel Las Jacarandas on August 28th with my partner, and while the front desk staff was notably unfriendly and came across as condescending, we were already there so we had to make the best of it. The room itself was spacious and very pleasant—great layout, disposable cups (a nice touch), and decent-quality body and hair soap. We actually would’ve loved to stay longer if not for the poor service experience. Unfortunately, that negative interaction made us decide to leave after just one night. The pool area was beautiful, and the guy who handled the pool maintenance was genuinely kind and helpful when we checked out at 8:10 AM. It’s a lovely hotel overall—well-located, clean, and visually appealing. That said, guest service is absolutely crucial. If the team can improve their attitude and hospitality while keeping the great ambiance, this place could easily be a top pick. Thanks to the staff for the warm farewell, and hope to see positive changes in the future!

Staying at Gamma Mazatlan the Inn at Centro Historico was an absolute delight. The renovations are fresh and impeccable—every detail feels thoughtfully considered. From high-quality toiletries like shampoo, body wash, and moisturizer to convenient amenities such as a dryer, iron, and even a magnifying mirror, everything you’d want is here. The large-screen TV adds great entertainment value, and the beds are incredibly comfortable and spotlessly clean—perfect for a restful night’s sleep. It’s clear this place prioritizes both cleanliness and guest comfort. Honestly, this is exactly what a great hotel should offer: quality, attention to detail, and a peaceful atmosphere. Location-wise, it’s within walking distance of the historic center, making it easy to explore the city on foot. I’ll definitely be back—this is a standout choice in Mazatlán.

This place is absolutely perfect for unwinding and recharging. From the moment we arrived, Casa Lulu felt like a peaceful retreat—serene, private, and beautifully designed. The rooms are spacious, thoughtfully furnished, and completely quiet, which made it easy to disconnect from the everyday chaos. We loved strolling along the malecón just steps away—perfect for morning walks or sunset views. Everything you need is right there: comfort, tranquility, and a genuine sense of calm. Whether you're traveling with your partner or simply craving some quiet time, this is the ideal spot to relax and truly recharge. No distractions, no noise—just peace and simple luxury. I’d come back in a heartbeat.

This place is absolutely incredible! From the moment we arrived, everything felt so welcoming and special. Our room, Egypt, was stunning — a breathtaking ocean view, a private porch perfect for morning coffee, a hot tub, and comfy outdoor loungers. The cleanliness and attention to detail were top-notch. Breakfast was an experience: fresh fruit, daily rotating yogurt flavors, granola, and that famous coffee served in traditional clay mugs — pure joy. And then came Tatiana’s personal touch — her delicious final breakfast course was unforgettable. Just one block from El Malecón, it’s easy to walk down and hop on a pulmonía or araña to explore the city. But the real highlight? Tatiana herself. She’s not just the owner — she’s a local guide, friend, and tour planner all in one. She arranged a fantastic trip to El Quelite at a great price, including a delicious meal. Gustavo joined us too — warm, fun, and full of insider knowledge. They made us feel like family. The property is secure, beautifully maintained, and incredibly peaceful. You come here as a guest… and leave as a friend. If you’re visiting Mazatlán, this is the only place to stay.

The location of La Lola Hotel & Suites is excellent—very convenient for getting around, with supermarkets and local shops just steps away. The staff were incredibly friendly and attentive throughout our stay, making us feel welcome from the moment we arrived. Everything was clean, well-maintained, and thoughtfully designed. Being close to essential amenities without having to travel far made our trip so much more enjoyable. It’s a perfect choice for travelers who value comfort, convenience, and great service. Highly recommend this gem in Mazatlán!

My week-long stay in Mazatlan was made unforgettable by the hotel and its incredible staff. The room was spotless, and I slept like a baby on the comfortable bed. What truly stood out was how welcoming and helpful the team was—especially for an English-speaking traveler navigating a new city. They went above and beyond to assist with local tips, transportation, and even recommended hidden gems I wouldn’t have found on my own. Their genuine hospitality made me feel at home. I’m already planning my return trip—this place deserves every bit of praise.

This place is perfect for a family getaway! The location is just right—quiet enough to relax, yet close enough to walk to all the local attractions. Communication with the owner was excellent and always prompt whenever we had questions. Check-in was a bit confusing at first, but once we figured it out, everything ran smoothly. Overall, the stay was amazing—from the comfortable rooms to the welcoming atmosphere. Highly recommend this spot for anyone looking for a stress-free, enjoyable vacation in Mazatlán.
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