Culiacan combines a Spanish colonial heritage with traditional Mexican art, culture and cuisine. The city was founded in 1531 and features an atmospheric historic centre set at the junction of three rivers. Relax in the riverfront park, watch street performers in the main square and soak in the traditional Sinaloan culture.
Things to do in Culiacán
Culiacan is one of the best places in Mexico to experience traditional Sinaloan culture. Try local dishes like “tixtihuil” fish soup served with fresh tortillas, “aguachile” raw shellfish marinated in lime juice and “flautas” corn tortillas stuffed with shredded chicken.
Enjoy a picnic in scenic Parque Las Riberas. The riverside park features tree-lined trails and bike rentals. Look for wild iguanas perched in the trees. Head to the riverside Dancing Fountains after dark to watch the mesmerising sound and light show. Every night, the fountains perform a choreographed show set to traditional Sinaloan music.
Watch street performers work the crowds in Plazuela Alvaro Obregon, the city’s lively main square. You’ll see jugglers, acrobats and musicians dressed in colourful clothing. Twin-towered Culiacan Cathedral soars over the square and features a beautiful Neoclassical façade. Walk or ride the bus up to La Lomita, a picturesque hilltop church with sweeping views over the city.
Admire contemporary, impressionist and abstract works at Museo de Arte de Sinaloa. The museum spotlights local artists from across the state of Sinaloa. It’s housed in a beautiful 19th-century building and showcases works by Mexican icons like Diego Rivera, Juan Cordero and Francisco Goitia.
Getting around Culiacán
Parts of Culiacan are pedestrian-friendly and easy to get around on foot, while taxis are a fast and affordable way to get around. Culiacan is in the state of Sinaloa, a three-hour drive from Mazatlan. Federal de Bachigualato International Airport is a 20-minute drive from the city centre and offers direct flights to hubs like Mexico City and Tijuana.