Patzcuaro city was founded over the 14th century, though it actual image becomes from the the 16th century after passing through the conquest destruction and the rebuild of don Vasco de Quiroga, a great humanis that get together the almos extint indigenist population and tought them arts and handicrafts that still remains as way of life in the communities that integrates this region and that of course worth to visit.

In downtown Pátzcuaro is possible to find beautiful buildings very well conservated or restored as well as stores that offers all that is produced in the region. It is recommended to visit Vasco de Quiroga's square, the museum of popular arts, the ancient Jesuit College, the house of eleven Patios, the Public Library, the  Huitziméngari's palace and the many churches that conforms a particulat view of which could be a community integrated by local indians, spaniards and mestizos. A night walk by downtons is magic as the title "Magic Town" that has been given to Pátzcuaro. few years ago.

This lake is located four km. from downtown Pátzcuaro. It is not only one of the most beautiful places in the world, but one of the earth’s highest lakes. The history of Michoacán is intimately tied to it, it is a primary element of the coat of arms of the city, and also brims with innumerable stories and legends related to the Purhépechas and its origin. However, this lake has neither escaped  the aggressiveness of man nor climactic changes, which have both affected the water level. At present there are five islands: Janitzio, la Pacanda, Yunuén, Tecuén, a very small barren island called “The Tecuenita” (as it is so close to Tecuén) and Jarácuaro, which is now connected by a causeway. These waters are inhabited by five fish species: the famous white fish (endangered), black sea bass (usually called “trucha”), acúmara and other smaller fish called tiruhs and cheguas. Moreover the lake is circled by 26 native villages, each with its own beauty and personality and all recommended to visit. There is a well paved, scenic and panoramic road that leaves Pátzcuaro, encircles the lake, then joins the road to Guadalajara near Quiroga.

The old capital of the great Purhépecha empire is located about 15 minutes from Pátzcuaro. Its name means “humming bird place” and it is derived from the sound of the beating of hummingbird wings. This old city received tribute from 122 remote towns during the splendor of the imperial epoch, mounted an army of 250,000 warriors and figured as an important religious center which, it is presumed, was founded in the eleventh century.

The Purhépechas formed a profoundly military and religious nation, believed firmly in life after death, and like the Egyptians, when an important person died, servants were killed and buried near their master to serve him in the next world.

Quiroga is just 10 minutes from Tzintzuntzan.. It is another town of prehispanic origins, whose original name, “Cocupao”, means “reception place”. The name comes from the fact that this was an obligatory pass-through from the Purhépecha capital, Tzintzuntzan, on the way to the ceremonial center of Zacapu. At present it is an important artesanal center, where it is possible to find a great variety of well priced and excellent quality leather articles. As to places of interest, you must visit the main parish of San Diego, dating from the sixteenth century, and in which is venerated a sacred image of the precious blood of Christ. Here also are interesting retablos (painted panels) that cover the ceiling of the church. Other places of interest are the temple of the Inmaculada Concepción, with its characteristic Gothic tower, unique in the region; or the Fountain of America, in the middle of the main square, so named because of the statue placed there to honor the Purhépecha princes who donated land to the first Spanish colonists who settled in this area in the 16^th century, and by whom the city was founded.

Its name means “smoky place”. This is a beautiful lake surrounded by pine forests and live oaks about 20 minutes from Pátzcuaro, following the road to Uruapan and taking the detour to Zirahuén. An old legend says that this small lake is inhabited by the princess Zirahuén, who committed suicide because her father forbid her to marry to her beloved, and since then any man who enters its waters runs the risk of drowning–trapped by the princess, who still waits for her love.

Anyway, it is not recommended to swim here, because the water is very cold and deep in some places. If you must, be sure to ask first if it is possible and where is a good place. The crafts production of the area is specialized in carved wood, decorated with floral themes. Also made are kitchen tools such as spoons, forks, spatulas, scoops and other utensils.