Although Acapulco is renowned for its natural beauty and world class beaches, there are a handful of interesting sights around the city worth visiting

Diego Rivera Mural
This amazing mural made from stones, seashells and coloured mosaics was one of the last works of art by this legendary Mexican artist. It is a national treasure and is unique in that it is on the side of an old woman’s house in the city centre, free to appreciate.

El Zocalo (Plaza Alvarez)
This plaza is the heart and soul of Acapulco. Lined with inexpensive shops and restaurants and populated by true locals enjoying their free time, this is the ultimate spot in the city to see the real side of Acapulco. Spend an afternoon sitting on a bench under a shady tree watching life go by.

The Cliff Divers of La Quebrada
Each day these daring high divers perform for an audience of amazed onlookers at the cliffs of La Quebrada. Climbing to a perch on the Cliffside, these men dive 40 metres into a frighteningly small inlet of roaring surf which seems just about impossible. They jump five times a day and accept congratulations and small donations for their feats. Don’s miss this quintessential Acapulco experience.

The Fuerte de San Diego
This fort was built in 1616 and was designed to keep the marauding pirates of the day out of the city. Today, the fort is not only a reminder of Acapulco’s dangerous past, but also home to the Acapulco Historical Museum, which offers the best timeline of the city’s history from before the Spaniards arrival through its peak as a major trading centre. Tel: +52 744 482 3828

Mercado Municipal
This is the city’s oldest and most important outdoor market, where you can buy just about everything under the sun from fresh fruit to lucky amulets. The stalls at the market are packed together making for a lively atmosphere full of bartering and fun.

Take a Cruise Around the Bay
Experience the stunning scenery onboard yachts which are fully equipped with a swimming pool, restaurant and bar. There are several types of cruises available, including romantic couples’ nights to morning sunrise tours. Tel: +52 748 35981

Enjoy the Beach
Don’t waste any time in hitting the beach when you arrive in Acapulco. Playa Condesa is one of Acapulco’s most famous beaches for its party scene. Dozens of bars, clubs and restaurants line this strip of sand and promise the liveliest social scene in town. Playa Caleta was once the beach of Acapulco’s nobility. These beaches are protected by La Roqueta Island which makes the waters calm and the sand soft. This is the beach for a luxurious, yet relaxed, Mexican experience.

Swim With the Dolphins
Delfines Paradise is a wonderful centre that educates about the intelligent dolphin and their natural habitat. You can swim with the dolphins or simply interact with them on a platform. This safe and extraordinary experience will open your eyes to these amazing and emotional mammals. Tel: +52 74 810011

Take a Sde Trip to Taxco
Mexico’s premier silver city is 275kms north of Acapulco, but well worth the trip if you have the time. The city, with its cobblestone streets and preserved colonial buildings is a living work of art. The silversmiths still ply their trade, adding to the undeniable charm of this unqiue and timeless town.