visit guadalajara mexico

15 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Guadalajara

Written by Meagan Drillinger Updated Dec 27, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Guadalajara may be Mexico's second largest city and the capital of the state of Jalisco, but it is a city that has still managed to preserve the independent character of a town conscious of its own traditions.

The city exudes a distinct European atmosphere, with wide tree-lined boulevards, leafy plazas, Spanish-influenced architecture, and sidewalks humming with activities and attractions. But Guadalajara is also famous as a center of mariachi music, and is a stronghold of Charreadas, the Mexican version of the rodeo.

The Tapatios, as the people of Guadalajara call themselves, celebrate the popular folk dance, known as Jarabe Tapatio. These three things together are often what travelers imagine when they think of Mexican folk traditions, and Guadalajara is at the heart of them all.

It's also an easy city to explore, thanks to its mild subtropical climate. It's easy to navigate, as well, thanks to the city center's four magnificent squares, handily connected and arranged in the form of a cross, with the city's principal tourist attractions and things to do set around them.

Guadalajara is as cultural and diverse as Mexico City, but much smaller in size and less hectic in energy. For ideas on the best places to visit, read our list of the top tourist attractions in Guadalajara.

See also: Where to Stay in Guadalajara

1. Instituto Cultural de Cabañas

2. guadalajara cathedral, 3. expiatory temple (templo expiatorio del santísimo sacramento), 4. the government palace, 5. teatro degollado, 6. guadalajara zoo, 7. josé clemente orozco's frescoes, 8. rotonda de los jaliscienses ilustres, 9. parque agua azul & bosque colomos, 10. the regional museum of guadalajara, 11. the churches of santa mónica and san agustin, 12. guachimontones archaeological site, 13. charros de jalisco, 14. tlaquepaque, 15. haciendas, where to stay in guadalajara for sightseeing, map of tourist attractions in guadalajara, guadalajara, mexico - climate chart.

In the downtown historic core, the World Heritage-listed Instituto Cultural Cabañas (formerly called Hospicio Cabañas) is a splendid Neoclassical former hospital and orphanage built at the beginning of the 19th century.

Today, the complex is home to the Cabañas Cultural Institute and the Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Besides the building's graceful architecture, based on similar designs in Paris and Madrid, the main highlight here is the collection of 57 magnificent frescoes painted by José Clemente Orozco , which are widely considered to be among his finest works.

Most of the murals adorn the ceiling and walls around the vast nave and cupola, including his famous The Man of Fire ( El Hombre del Fuego ) mural . Guided tours are available in English and Spanish and are highly recommended.

Afterwards, visit the huge Market Hall (Mercado Libertad) nearby, where regional costumes, pottery, paper flowers, and musical instruments are offered for sale. It is the largest indoor market in Latin America.

Address: Cabañas 8, Las Fresas, 44360 Guadalajara, Jalisco

While occupying much of the lovely public square known as Plaza de Armas , the beautiful Guadalajara Cathedral (Catedral de Guadalajara) stands with its façade fronting the adjoining Plaza de los Laureles, a smaller square with an impressive fountain.

Built between 1558 and 1616 and much altered in later periods, the cathedral, although mostly Baroque in appearance, shows a remarkable mingling of different styles, particularly in its fine mostly Gothic interior. Highlights include its many chapels with their paintings attributed to Cristóbal de Villalpando, Miguel Cabrera, and Murillo, some of Mexico's finest artists. A particularly beautiful example by Murillo - the Assumption of the Virgin Mary - hangs over the doorway of the sacristy.

Address: Av Alcalde 10, Zona Centro, 44100 Guadalajara, Jalisco

Although one of Guadalajara's newer churches - construction started in 1897 and didn't end until 1972 - the Templo Expiatorio del Santísimo Sacramento is undoubtedly one of the finest religious structures in the city.

Built in neo-Gothic style, the church is famous for its richly embellished exterior and many European-made components. Highlights include its finely carved doors inlaid with bronze reliefs, exquisite mosaics from Italy, a unique German clock, and a superb carillon capable of playing 25 different pieces of music (it can also be played from inside the church) while figures of the 12 Apostles move around it.

Also of interest are the building's fine stained-glass windows from France and the richly decorated Golden Altar with its many biblical stories.

Address: Av López Cotilla 935, Centro, 44100 Guadalajara, Jalisco

Steps from the cathedral in the finest of Guadalajara's four main squares, the Plaza de Armas , stands the Government Palace (Palacio de Gobierno). Started in 1643 and completed in 1774, this splendid Baroque building is well worth a visit with its many columns displaying zigzag ornamentation, large volutes, and Churrigueresque pilasters (estípites).

Notable interior highlights include its fine old staircase and, in one of the council chambers, a number of murals depicting the War of Independence, along with the heroes of the three Mexican wars, painted by famous fresco-painter José Clemente Orozco, a native of the state of Jalisco.

Address: Avenida Ramón Corona, Guadalajara, Jalisco

Opposite the cathedral, the Neoclassical Teatro Degollado is the city's most important - and beautiful - performing arts venue. Completed in 1866, this impressive theater is worth visiting for its fine architectural details and lavish interior design. The exterior features 16 Corinthian columns and a marble relief of Apollo surrounded by the nine muses.

Known for its excellent acoustics, the theater is home to the Philharmonic Orchestra of Jalisco and Guadalajara City Ballet, among other local cultural institutions, and it also hosts international Mariachi competitions. Even if you can't catch a performance here, it's worth poking your head inside to gape at the plush, gilded interior. Like a red and gold layer cake, five tiers of balconies soar above the stage, and dramatic frescoes depicting scenes from Dante's Divine Comedy adorn the ceiling.

Address: Calle Degollado s/n, Zona Centro, 44100 Guadalajara, Jal., Mexico

Just a few minutes north of the city is the Guadalajara Zoo (Zoológico Guadalajara). In addition to its fine setting - it overlooks the stunning Santiago Gorge - this fun attraction is one of the largest and most important zoos in Latin America.

Highlights of its collection of animals include many rare species such as white lions, Bengal tigers, and black panthers, plus a large primate contingent featuring gorillas and orangutans, along with a number of native Mexican species such as Mexican wolves.

Other highlights include a large aquarium and a reptile house with numerous lizards, snakes, and spiders. The zoo is also noted for its large aviaries, in particular two dedicated to songbirds and tropical species. Kids will love Safari Masai Mara, a fun ride through the African savannah stocked with antelope, rhinos, and other species.

Address: Av Paseo del Zoologico 600, Huentitán El Alto, 44390 Guadalajara, Jalisco

Spread across the city are a number of sites featuring artwork by one of Mexico's most renowned painters, José Clemente Orozco (1883 - 1949). Some of his finest work can be seen in the form of frescoes in a former chapel in the Instituto Cultural Cabañas complex. Painted between 1938 and 1939, these huge murals portray the Four Elements, Art, and Science , as well as the Conquest and the Four Riders of the Apocalypse .

The high point is the superb fresco The Man of Fire ( El Hombre del Fuego ) in the dome.

Various rooms around the complex are also of interest as they contain a variety of exhibits devoted to Orozco's life and works. Another site containing examples of Orozco's frescos is the Government Palace (Palacio de Gobierno).

Just outside Guadalajara Cathedral in Plaza de Armas, the Rotonda de Los Jaliscienses Ilustres (Rotunda of the Illustrious Jaliscienses) is one of the city's most distinctive monuments and lives in a beautiful park-like setting.

Constructed in 1952 in honor of the state's best-known historical figures - including famed artist José Clemente Orozco, whose work can be seen in murals across the city - this large circular stone monument features 17 tall columns and houses the remains of 98 important individuals. Statues of some of these individuals adorn the surrounding lawns.

Hot Tip: Visit the site after nightfall when it's lit up in spectacular fashion, an effect heightened by a flaming cauldron in the middle of the rotunda.

Address: Av. Fray Antonio Alcalde 108, Zona Centro, 44100 Guadalajara, Jal., Mexico

Guadalajara's most popular public park is the beautiful Parque Agua Azul, literally translated as the Blue Water Park. Opened in 1952, the park covers an area of some 168,000 square meters and is a wonderful place to stroll among the landscaped gardens and trees.

Highlights include a tropical orchid house, as well as a Butterfly House and an aviary, both home to a wide variety of indigenous species. Also of interest is the adjacent Casa de las Artesanías , an area where local folk art is exhibited and sold, as well as a small anthropological museum (the Museum of Paleontology ), an open-air theater, and a flower market.

Another popular park in Guadalajara is Bosque Colomos . Densely wooded in parts and punctuated by meandering waterways where ducks glide, this peaceful green space offers a relaxing respite from the city buzz. Other highlights here include a tranquil Japanese garden, running tracks, and a cultural center with art-related workshops in genres such as folk dancing, painting, drawing, and sculpture. Bird-watching and picnics are other popular things to do here.

Address: Calz Independencia Sur 973, Centro, 44100 Guadalajara, Jal., Mexico

The Regional Museum of Guadalajara (Museo Regional de Guadalajara) is just a short stroll from the Plaza de Armas and is worth a quick visit.

Housed in a former 18th-century seminary that also served as a headquarters and prison during the War of Independence, the museum opened in 1918 and features numerous Pre-Columbian finds and scattered ethnographical displays, but note that the descriptions are mostly in Spanish.

Highlights include 14 dioramas and exhibits dealing with local fossils and geography, a large mineral collection that includes an 800-kilogram meteorite, and a fine collection of colonial-era artwork, as well as contemporary and modern art.

Depending on the day of your visit, some rooms might be closed.

Address: Calle Liceo 60, Zona Centro, 44100 Guadalajara, Jalisco

Guadalajara boasts many splendid old churches and most are easily accessible from the historic city center. One of the prettiest, the 17th-century Church of Santa Mónica (Templo de Santa Mónica), lies a few blocks northwest of the cathedral and is notable for its Baroque façade, with its twisted columns and intricately carved ornamentation including grapes, cobs of maize, angels, double eagles, and symbols of religious orders.

Also of interest is the splendid Church of San Agustin (Templo de San Agustín), part of a former convent built in the 16th century with later Baroque flourishes and boasting a splendid interior that includes a fine altar with an image of the church's patron saint. Other Baroque churches of interest are the 17th-century San Francisco, San Felipe Neri, and Aránzazu Churches.

Address: Esq Degollado, Calle de Morelos, Zona Centro, 44100 Guadalajara, Jalisco

Mexico is steeped in thousands of years of indigenous culture, the most well-known of which are the Mayan and Aztec cultures.

But Mexico is home to many more indigenous tribes who have left their marks on history. The Teuchitlan people lived in what is now known as the Tequila Valley outside of Guadalajara, from 300 BC through AD 900, and have left monumental structures behind, which make for a great day trip from Guadalajara.

These structures are known as the archaeological site of Guachimontones, distinct circular step pyramid structures that look similar to beehives and seem to pop out of the grassy valley floor. This is one of the only examples of rounded pyramids in Mexico, though excavations at other Teuchitlan sites reveal that there may be similar structures.

It is one of the most spectacular sites in Jalisco, but be sure to arrive prepared with comfortable shoes and water. It's a bit of a challenging climb up to the archaeological site.

Sunday is a very special day in Guadalajara. Sunday is the day that Guadalajara comes alive with the tradition of charreria. What exactly is charreria? As of 1933, charreria is the official national sport of Mexico. It's often aligned with the rodeo in the United States, but it has distinct differences.

Charreria can trace its roots back to the 16th century, when horses were brought to Mexico on Spanish ships. The charreria culture started on the haciendas, predominantly in the state of Jalisco. Haciendas were large, ranch-style homes on sprawling acres of land with many employees and farmhands. The original charros (charreria competitors) were farm workers, who would hold competitions to show off their horse skills.

Fast forward to the 1920s and 30s, when the hacienda culture had ended and the rise of formal charreadas began. Today it is a national sport performed all across the country and one that is deeply rooted in the traditions and history of Mexico.

One of the best spots in Guadalajara to watch the charreria events is at the Lienzo Charro. Charros here are not paid but rather participate in the events out of sheer passion. The event always starts at noon and features about nine different competitions to show off horse-riding and wrangling skills. The entire event is usually over by 2pm – just in time for lunch.

Charreria events are always entertaining, especially in Guadalajara. The stands come alive with spectators who come for the revelry, the socialization, and, of course, the competition. Afterwards it's not uncommon for families and friends to all have a big meal together. It's a day of family, history, and cultural pride.

Just outside Guadalajara is the small village of Tlaquepaque. Tlaquepaque is a shopper's and art-lover's paradise, splashed in color, packed with galleries and boutiques, and restaurants.

One of Mexico's famous Magical Towns, Tlaquepaque has a history rooted in pottery and sculpture tradition, which is why it has attracted so many artists and artisans over the years to open their own shops and galleries. Today it is home to more than 200 workshops and art galleries.

In this stunning small town, visitors love to meander the cobblestone streets, which are often flanked with buildings festooned with colorful flags, murals, or outdoor art.

Several museums can be found in Tlaquepaque, as well, like the Panduro Pottery National Prize Museum or the Regional Museum of Ceramics of Tlaquepaque . The latter sits inside a house that dates back to the 17th century.

Since Tlaquepaque is so close to Guadalajara, it can easily be done for an hour or two, if not for a full day. But Tlaquepaque also has great boutique hotels for people who want to linger a bit longer.

An important part of the history of Western Mexico is the hacienda culture that was in place for the better part of 300 years. Since the arrival of the Spanish up until the Mexican Revolution, haciendas played an integral role in the culture and society of Mexico.

While hacienda culture is long gone, many of the historic buildings still remain. Many of them have even been renovated and modernized for the 21st century and converted into luxury hotels. A trip outside the city to visit or stay at one of these haciendas provides such a unique glimpse into the past of Jalisco and the area surrounding Guadalajara.

One of the most famous haciendas is Hacienda El Carmen Hotel & Spa , which is about an hour from Guadalajara. Sitting on a sprawling amount of land, the 16th-century building has been in the hands of one family for generations. Today it is a gorgeous hotel with a fabulous restaurant, spa, horseback riding, and lovely views over the rolling mountains and farmland.

In the city proper, Villa Ganz Hotel Boutique is another historic hacienda that has been converted into a boutique hotel. This villa sits in the vibrant Lafayette neighborhood, known for its galleries, museums, restaurants, and shopping.

If you're visiting Guadalajara for the first time, the best place to stay is in the historic city center. The main tourist attractions lie a short walk from each other in this central area, including Guadalajara cathedral, Government Palace, and the Rotunda of Illustrious Men. Some of the city's luxury hotels are a short taxi ride from the historical center in an upscale area of the city, near Expo Guadalajara. Here are some highly rated hotels in these convenient locations:

Luxury Hotels:

• Next door to Expo Guadalajara, The Westin features in-room spa treatments and a fitness center.
• Step back in time at the Quinta Real Guadalajara , a five-star hotel in a historic garden oasis in the heart of the city.
• In an exclusive area of the city, about a 15-minute drive from the Plaza de Armas, Hotel Riu Plaza Guadalajara has contemporary guest rooms, with accents in bright, bold hues, and an inviting spa and outdoor pool.
• Not far from the Hotel Riu Plaza Guadalajara is Casa Habita , a design-forward hotel that is heavy on chic, vintage vibes, from its rooftop plunge pool to deep soaking tubs and minimalist (yet modern) accents.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• The Hotel Morales Historical & Colonial Downtown Core , with a heated rooftop pool, drips with history and sits within walking distance of the city's major historic attractions.
• In a beautiful old mansion, about a seven-minute walk from the cathedral, the boutique, family-owned Casa Pedro Loza has individually styled rooms with striking color schemes and stylish accents.
• Also near the cathedral as well as Teatro Degollado, One Guadalajara Centro Historico sports a sleek, modern decor. Breakfast is included in the rates.

Budget Hotels:

• In a great location near the top sites in the historic center, the BEST WESTERN Gran Hotel Centro Historico has basic rooms and a swimming pool.
• Also near the historic center, Dali Plaza Hotel offers clean, spacious rooms for a budget-friendly price.
• Another good option is the colonial-style Hotel la Rotonda , just steps away from the cathedral.

More on Mexico

27 AMAZING Things to do in Guadalajara Mexico in 2024

Guadalajara is not the most usual choice for most first-time visitors to Mexico. Despite all of the culture, history, and gastronomy that the Jalisco capital has to offer, it is often overshadowed in favor of Mexico City.

However, there are plenty of things to do in Guadalajara, whatever your interests, to keep you occupied for a long weekend. The city also makes a wonderful jump-off point for a wider Jalisco itinerary, or as a travel paring with nearby Puerto Vallarta . 

Table of Contents

Things to do in Guadalajara 

Historic Guadalajara is Mexico’s second-largest city. While it pales in comparison to Mexico City in terms of size, it is recognized as the birthplace of several Mexican traditions. Notably, mariachi, tequila, and charreada are extremely popular in this part of western Mexico. 

The modern city of Guadalajara dates back to 1542. It was made the capital of Nueva Galicia province in 1560 and really thrived during the 17th and 18th centuries when people started to relocate here from Spain en masse. 

Miguel Hidalgo, one of the most notable figures in the Mexican war for Independence, set up a government office in Guadalajara in the 19th century. Today, the Guadalajara metropolitan area is home to a population of over 5.3 million people. 

Try a torta ahogada 

Mexican food differs substantially from one part of the country to another. For instance, some of the food that you will find in Jalisco cannot be found elsewhere, while Yucatecan food is something entirely unique.  

One Guadalajara specialty that you must try while in town is the torta ahogada (drowned sandwich). The sandwich is made by stuffing crispy pork carnitas and red onions inside a crusty bread roll. Then, a generous amount of spicy tomato sauce is slathered on top. The sandwich was invented by accident by a street vendor in the early 1900s when he dropped an entire sandwich in a container of salsa! 

The customer assured him that he still wanted to eat it and fell completely in love with the soggy sandwich concept! You will find torta ahogada fast food shops and stalls all over Guadalajara today, each claiming to serve the best sandwich in town. It is a unique dining experience that may not be for everyone. But when else have you had the opportunity to tuck into a sandwich that you need to eat with a spoon?

Tour a haunted graveyard 

Panteón de Belén is a historic graveyard in the center of Guadalajara that is home to some notable residents. Touring a Mexican cemetery may seem a little macabre, but they are markedly different from western cemeteries and provide an interesting insight into Mexican traditions and perspectives on death. 

Mexican mausoleums are elaborate and colorful. Some tombs look like they belong in an art museum and some of the sculptures and structures you see are beautiful. 

The 19th century Panteón de Belén quickly reached its maximum occupancy during the early 19th century due to several pandemics at that time. There used to be two cemeteries here – one for the rich, and one for the poor. Sadly, the cemetery for the poor was demolished and turned into a hospital. However, you can take guided tours (in Spanish and in English) around the remaining section. Here, you can learn the stories behind the cemetery’s most notable residents and hear tales of hauntings. For instance, the ghost of a little boy known as ¨nacho nino¨ who was afraid of the dark and for weeks after his death kept being spotted outside of his crypt.

Or the more heartwarming story of Joseph Johnston and Jean Young. They were a wealthy couple from Paisley, Scotland who dedicated their lives to helping the poor in Guadalajara. 

Today, centuries after their deaths they are still respected local icons. People still stop by and leave trinkets, flowers, and offerings by their graves in hope that they will be granted good fortune. 

See the mariachi at Tlaquepaque 

Guadalajara and the state of Jalisco are known for being the birthplace of two things: Tequila and mariachi. Mariachi is said to have originated in this region of western Mexico, and the city of Tlaquepaque in particular is credited for its success.

The colorful city is a pueblo magico (a Mexican town with a particularly special culture/history). At its historic center, you can find El Parian square, a small cobbled piazza with a bandstand, where live musicians perform to patrons in local bars. 

The square dates back to 1878 and mariachi bands have been performing here since the 1920s. At the time, that was quite a controversial move by the event organizers as mariachi wasn’t widely accepted. 

Today, you can still stop by one of the restaurants and bars in El Parian square and enjoy the live music while you enjoy a tequila cazuela. Tlaquepaque on the whole is worthy of an afternoon’s exploration. 

It is known for its handicrafts, particularly its ceramics, glass-blown items, and handpainted tiles. Meander down Calle Independencia to check out the independent art galleries and the grand colonial mansions that have been converted into restaurants.  

Go for brunch in leafy Colonia Americana

The chic, leafy district of Colonia Americana is one of the hippest areas in Guadalajara. So hip in fact, that Time Out magazine nominated it as being the coolest neighborhood in the world in 2022. 

Colonia Americana is to Guadalajara what Greenwich Village is to New York City. The tree-lined promenades of this area are filled with eclectic coffee shops and cafes frequented by intellectuals and creatives. 

Avenida Chapultapec is the main strip in the area, home to an abundance of bars and international restaurants. However, part of the fun of exploring Colonia Americana is found in stumbling across art galleries and eccentric stalls that are hidden away down unsuspecting streets and passageways. 

Calle Prisciliano Sanchez and Libertad have an abundance of dining options. For brunch, lunch, or coffee, head to Gabinete (Libertad 1698). 

Explore the historic center 

The main square at the center of any Mexican city is known as the ¨Zocalo¨ and Guadalajara’s zocalo is a beautiful one. You could easily dedicate an entire day to exploring the historic center of Guadalajara at a leisurely rate and you could never tire of seeing the buildings here.

The double-spired cathedral is the main focal point of the square. It was built in the Spanish Renaissance style during the 16th century and features a neoclassical facade, with neo-Gothic bell towers that were constructed in the 19th century. Its interiors are just as gorgeous as the exterior and it is possible to go inside, as long as there isn’t a service taking place. The other gothic buildings in the area are a photographer’s dream. 

Look out for the neoclassical Teatro Degollado – a gorgeous theater that hosts various opera and musical performances, as well as the Jalisco Philharmonic orchestra. Nearby, look out for the Palacio de Gobierno and the Templo de Santa Teresa de Jesus.

The neoclassical Instituto Cultural Cabañas was the oldest orphanage in the Americas. Today, it houses an art museum that showcases the works of José Clemente Orozco. 

Stroll around Lake Chapala 

From central Guadalajara, you can take a bus to Lake Chapala – Mexico’s largest freshwater lake. The beautiful lake is surrounded by a plethora of chic coffee shops, bars, and restaurants serving Mexican food and international fare. 

Several boutique hotels can be found in the area and make a great place to stay if you want to get away from the city for a night or two. Street vendors line the pathways selling everything from elotes and homemade ice cream prepared with real fruit pieces, to bottles of homemade wine. 

You can rent pontoons and little row boats around the lake to watch the sunset from the water. Lake Chapala is home to thousands of American and Canadian retirees. (It is actually one of the most popular retirement destinations in Mexico). 

The culture and atmosphere in some areas are markedly different from what you would expect to see in Mexico. For an authentic local experience, treat yourself to a Mexican breakfast at one of the stalls in the small Mercado by Plaza Principal de Chapala, just off Lopez Costilla.

Take a day trip out to Tequila 

The Pueblo Magico of Tequila is one of the most popular day trips that you can take from Guadalajara . As the name suggests, the town is famous for being the birthplace of Tequila. 

Just like champagne in the namesake Champagne region of France, Tequila can only be produced in this part of Mexico. Here, you can participate in a distillery tour to learn the process of making the beverage and its journey from agave plant to finished product. 

The Jose Cuervo distillery is arguably one of the most famous in the region. However, it is equally as enjoyable to organize tastings with smaller, independent producers. 

There is even a tequila express train that takes you on an 11-hour journey through the state of Jalisco (starting in Guadalajara and ending in Tequila). For $166 USD per person, you can enjoy an onboard tasting, all-you-can-drink tequila, and delicious tequila-infused cocktails and Mexican drinks . 

Recommended Tequila tours

Several reputable local tour companies offer day trips and excursions to Tequila. Many of these tours offer to pick up and drop off at your hotel and include tastings at numerous distilleries. 

Opting to do a tour takes a lot of the hassle out of figuring out how to get from A to B or having to take the long public bus journey from Guadalajara to Tequila. Some of the most reputable Tequila tours are detailed below for your consideration. 

Be sure to reserve your place online in advance to avoid disappointment! 

• From Guadalajara: Jose Cuervo Distillery and Tequila town tour
• Tequila tour and tequila tasting in a hacienda
• From Guadalajara: Tequila town and cantarito making tour
• Horseback riding along the Tequila route with tastings
• From Guadalajara: Pyramids and Jose Cuervo Tequila tour

Stroll around the Rotonda de Los Jaliscienses Ilustres

Central Guadalajara is home to several small squares and plazas that make great places to sit with a coffee and a good book as you people-watch. In particular, look out for the Rotonda de Los Jaliscienses Ilustres.

It is located close to the Guadalajara cathedral on Av. Fray Antonio Alcalde 108. The square is home to a circular colonnaded structure that is surrounded by busts of notable historic figures from Guadalajara.

Nearby, you can also check out the Plaza de Armas and the Plaza de la Liberación. The latter is usually home to street vendors selling all manner of weird and wonderful handicrafts, fabrics, scarves, and purses. 

Catch a show at the charrería

The Mexican charrería is often regarded as being the national sport of Mexico with roots in Guadalajara and the state of Jalisco. It is essentially the Mexican answer to the rodeo. 

The sporting tradition was recognized by UNESCO as being an ¨Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity¨ in 2016. If you attend, you can expect to see the charros participate in different games and contests that involve lassoing horses and bulls.

The charrería was not created by the indigenous people of Mexico, but by the Spanish colonizers in the 16th century. The Spanish were tasked with raising horses and managing farms in “New” Spain. 

To pass the time in rural parts of Mexico, they invented games and contests which developed into the Mexican Charreria as it is today. Contests were usually between different haciendas.

When the haciendas lost their importance and started to close down following the Mexican Revolution, the 1921 Asociación Nacional de Charros was developed to protect the Charreria traditions. Today, many charrerias are free to attend. Going to a show means having the chance to sample various Mexican street foods and see locals in traditional dress for the occasion. The Lienzo Charro Ignacio Zermeño Padilla, the Campo Charro Jalisco, and the Lienzo Charro Nito Aceves are some of the best venues in town. 

Hang out in a traditional cantina 

Visiting a traditional cantina is a quintessential experience that you need to have in Mexico. Some of these old-fashioned bars, with their swinging saloon doors and rustic interiors, are almost like something out of a movie set. 

Since Guadalajara is Mexico’s second-largest city, it makes sense that there would be some incredible cantinas here. Pull up a stool right at the bar and order yourself a beer or a michelada. 

With every drink you buy, you will be given a selection of botanas . These are small tapas-style dishes that are usually served for free. You can expect to see things like chips and guac, spiced sausages, and empanadas. La Fuente (C. Pino Suárez 78) is one of the most iconic Guadalajara cantinas. It first opened its doors back in 1921 and has delighted patrons ever since. Look out for the rusty old pushbike mounted above the bar. 

It was confiscated from a local who couldn’t pay his bar tab several decades ago and has been a fixture of the bar ever since. Nearby, don’t miss La Iberia (C. Alameda 9, El Retiro). This is the oldest cantina in Guadalajara and dates back to 1870. Most people in Mexican cantinas love to hang out and drink beers but this place has its own signature cocktail. 

Their La Batanga de Doña Chela is a tasty but potent mix of tequila, aguardiente, vodka, coca cola, lime, and mint. Phew. 

Check out a beautiful Italian church 

Several gorgeous Catholic churches are scattered throughout Guadalajara. They are a sight to behold, even if you are not a religious person. 

One that is particularly unique is the Templo Expiatorio del Santísimo Sacramento (C. Manuel López Cotilla 935). It is widely regarded as being the greatest work of its kind in Mexico. 

Construction on the church began in 1897 and was completed in 1911. It was designed by Italian architect Adamo Boari who had won a contest hosted by Pedro Loza y Pardavé, the archbishop of the city. 

The interiors boast Italian frescoes and French stained glass windows. The mosaics on display were created at the Vatican itself, while the clocks were designed by German engineers. 

Mass is celebrated here on a Sunday, and food and dancing take place in and outside of the church. Anyone is welcome to stop by and participate, as long as you are respectful. 

Take a walking tour 

Opting to take a walking tour is a great way to get your bearings in a new city. This is one of the best things to do in Guadalajara at the start of your trip. 

Touring with a local enables you to scratch deeper beneath the surface of the places you visit. You will gain more information and context to the various buildings and neighborhoods you see, and discover places that you may not have found independently. 

Better yet, you have a local ¨expert¨ on hand to ask for recommendations on the best places to eat, drink, hang out, etc. There are several free walking tours that take you around Guadalajara every day. 

There are also plenty of paid tours to choose from that focus on a particular aspect of the culture. E.g. street food tours, night tours, tequila tasting tours, etc. 

Recommended Guadalajara walking tours 

A selection of reputable Guadalajara tours is detailed below for your consideration. Book online in advance to secure your place! 

• Guadalajara sightseeing night tour
• Guided walking tour of Guadalajara and Tlaquepaque

Tour the Palacio de Gobierno del Estado de Jalisco.

The Palacio de Gobierno del Estado de Jalisco is one of the most notable structures in the historic center of Guadalajara. It dates back to 1750 and is the location where several historic Mexican leaders passed various laws. 

It is possible to take a tour of the building and learn about its contribution to local and national history. Several socialist-realist murals by José Clemente Orozco are also found inside the building. 

Visit the Guachimontones archeological site 

The Zona Arqueológica Teuchitlán o Guachimontones is often overlooked from most Guadalajara itineraries but it is well worth a day of your time, particularly if you are interested in history. This ancient city was inhabited by the Teuchitlán people. 

Rituals would be performed here in honor of Ehecatl, the god of wind. 10 structures encircle a central pyramid and Guachimontones is the only archeological site in the world to have been built in near-perfect concentric circles. 

There is a small museum on site that provides more background info on the site and contains a number of artifacts and jewelry items recovered from the area. Guachimontones sits 40km west of Guadalajara. It is possible to take a bus from central Guadalajara to Teuchitlán village for 120 pesos ($6.20). From there, you can take a taxi to the ruins. 

Recommended Guachimontones tours 

If you prefer not to deal with the hassle of taking public transport, you can also take a private or guided tour. A number of reputable Guachimontones tours are shortlisted below. Get them while they’re hot! 

• Guachimontones pyramids full-day tour
• Guachimontones pyramids and Jose Cuervo tequila tour
• Tour of Guachimontones and Hacienda Labor de Rivera
• Tour of Guachimontones and Hacienda del Carmen tour

See a performance at the Teatro Degollado 

The Teatro Degollado is a gorgeous neoclassical Mexican theatre that was designed by Jacobo Gálvez in 1856. At that time, it was a new and exciting concept to have a theater and venue to see the opera in Jalisco. 

Today, Teatro Degollado is one of the best-preserved theatres in Latin America. The various sculptures throughout the premises are the works of Italian artists such as Hugo Andres Testolini Deza. 

Meanwhile, the interior frescoes were designed by Jalisco painters Jacobo Galvez, Gerardo Suarez, and Carlos Villaseñor. The interior is modeled on the design of the iconic Teatro Della Scala in Milan. 

At the very least, you can stop by the theater briefly while exploring the center of Guadalajara. Better yet, try and get tickets to see a show here. Various ballets, operatic performances, classical music concerts, and dance shows are hosted here throughout the year.

Cycle through the city on a Sunday morning 

Every Sunday from 8 am until 2 pm, many of the main roads around the center of Guadalajara are closed to traffic. Bicycle rental shops and vendors pop up along Av Juárez and people take to the streets to cycle, rollerblade, jog and walk their dogs. 

This is a nice opportunity to see the city and local life without contending with the terrible traffic and congestion that usually plagues the central streets. The event links the six metropolitan areas: Zapopan, Guadalajara central, Tlaquepaque, Tonala, Tlajomulco, and El Salto.

Catch a Lucha Libre Mexican wrestling game 

Lucha Libre is a Mexican form of freestyle wrestling. Its rules are somewhat similar to those found in WWE, and the sport is perhaps best recognized for its colorful masks. (Which make great souvenirs from Mexico ).

You can stop by the Arena Coliseo in Guadalajara to catch a match during your time in the city. Even if you care very little about the sport, the atmosphere of being in the arena, cheering on the luchardores (wrestlers) with an ice-cold Mexican beer in hand, is second to none. 

Fights usually take place on Tuesdays and Sundays and tickets can be purchased for between 60 and 150 pesos. (Circa $3 – $7.70). 

Corona Market 

Mercado corona is one of the most important and bustling markets in downtown Guadalajara. It is situated at the intersection of Calle Santa Monica and Avenida Hidalgo and its crowded maze of vendors sells everything from homemade tamales and torta ahogadas, to plants, cigars, and knick-knacks. 

The covered market is a great place to stop for an affordable street food lunch, and it is slightly less daunting to explore than the nearby San Juan de Dios market. You can find delicious tacos here for as little as 15-20 pesos a piece. 

Explore the Mercado San Juan de Dios 

The Mercado San Juan de Dios (C. Dionisio Rodríguez 52) is not only the largest market in Mexico, but it is also the largest covered market in Latin America. More than 3,000 vendors set up shop here every single day, and the market has been a Guadalajara institution for centuries. 

The first Mercado San Juan de Dios was built here in 1888 by Pedro Castellanos. It was later demolished, and the current structure (which has existed since the 1950s) was built in its place. 

The market takes its name from the temple it is located next to. It is spread across three floors and you can find every item imaginable here. 

Mexican candies, artisanal goods, street food items, clothing items, fresh fruit and vegetables, fish and meats, and basically every item you can think of, is on sale here. Since the market is located in a part of Guadalajara that is a little rough around the edges, people are often concerned about safety here. 

Keep an eye on your belongings at all times and be aware of your surroundings. Guadalajara is safe as long as you take precautions. 

Check out the street art at Ajijic 

Ajijic is a small town in Jalisco, close to Lake Chapala and set against the backdrop of the Sierra Madre mountains. Ajijic is a Mexican pueblo magico and it is quickly becoming known for its colorful street art and eclectic murals created by artists from across Jalisco. 

The town, like Chapala, has a large population of western expats so the culture here is slightly different from that which you would expect to find in other parts of Jalisco. If you enjoy street art, you should keep an eye out for the “Wall of the Muertos¨ (wall of the dead). This controversial, sculpted wall runs alongside a local primary school and its carved 3D skulls honor the lives of those who once lived in Ajijic. Activities in Ajijic are few, but it’s a nice place to spend half a day. 

You can take a bus from Guadalajara to Ajijic. Then, take the same bus from Ajijic to Lake Chapala and enjoy the lake before returning to the capital. 

Stop by Chapalita 

Colonia Americana is a wonderful Guadalajara neighborhood that is frequented by artsy types and intellectuals. The only problem with it is that it has started to become gentrified.  

So, if you are looking for an alternative district with the same charm as Colonia Americana but with a more authentic Mexican vibe, head to Chapalita. The upscale bars, restaurants, and cafes here serve all manner of local and international fare. 

For exquisite steaks and marinated meat dishes, head to La Bocha Chapalita (Av Guadalupe 1144), an incredible local Argentinian restaurant. For wine and charcuterie tasting, head to Cru Wine & Deli (Av. Tepeyac 1042 E). 

The Jardín del Arte de la Glorieta Chapalita often hosts brass bands and live musicians that entertain locals for free. The garden, as the name suggests, has become locally renowned for the artists that sell their paintings and sculptures here. 

If you stop by in the evenings or on weekends, you will find many interesting handicrafts for sale. Chapalita is relatively safe and walkable, so you can enjoy exploring on foot. If you are wondering where to stay in Guadalajara , Chapalita is a good choice. 

Hike to the viewpoints at Parque Mirador 

Parque Mirador is a beautiful slice of peace and tranquility in the middle of the concrete jungle. It is situated just north of the city center and the hiking trail to the highest point of the park offers spectacular views over the Barranca de Oblatos canyon.

Several different viewpoints and walking trails weave through the natural scenery. Pack a flask of coffee and a picnic, and enjoy al fresco dining with a view, or dine in at the Mirador restaurant.  

Visit Vincente Fernandez’s ranch 

If you are well-versed in Mexican culture and music, Vincente Fernandez needs no introduction. Fernandez was born and raised in Guadalajara and was widely known for being one of the best musicians in Mexican history. 

He owned a ranch in Tlajomulco de Zúñiga known as ¨Los Tres Potrillos¨ where he was buried after his death in 2021. Today, it is possible to visit the ranch, which is home to a restaurant serving traditional Jaliscan food, and the largest Mexican cowboy store in the country. 

Check out the exhibits at the MUSA Museum of the Arts 

Several museums are scattered around Guadalajara. Arguably one of the most interesting is the MUSA Museum of the Arts. 

The museum and its exhibits are housed inside a former University of Guadalajara building. Here, you will find more than 100 art pieces created by international and Mexican artists . This includes the likes of José Clemente Orozco, Carlos Vargas Pons, and Javier Campos Cabello. 

Take an electric carriage ride around the city

A nice way to see the best things to do in Guadalajara in a short space of time is to take an electric carriage ride around the city. Horse-drawn carriages are being phased out, and electric carriages are a new, more ethical alternative. 

You will see chauffeurs standing beside the carriages in Plaza Guadalajara. Its possible to either reserve one in advance online, or to wander up to a driver on arrival. 

Spend a few days in Mazamitla 

Mazamitla is a charming Mexican town located three hours south of Guadalajara, just past Lake Chapala. For Mexicans, it is a great place to get back to nature for a few days at the weekend. 

Its adorable center is characterized by narrow cobbled streets and passageways, whitewashed adobe houses, tiled gable roofs, and historic churches on every street corner. On an international scale, Mazamitla is something of an unknown. 

If you have ample time to spare in Jalisco, you may want to consider renting a quaint wooden cabin and heading here for the weekend. This is particularly enjoyable during the winter months when the colder weather warrants lighting a log fire and cozying up by the flames. From here you can head out to the El Salto Waterfall, conquer some of the hiking trails in the region, take a horseback riding class, or rent an ATV and tour through the local villages. 

Experience the best of Guadalajara’s restaurant scene 

Mexico City may be considered the best foodie destination for gourmands in Mexico but Guadalajara certainly doesn’t disappoint. There is something for everyone here – from incredible street food eats to fine dining. 

Chapalita and Colonia Americana are arguably the best neighborhoods to venture to if you are looking for something a little more upscale. Restaurante Alcalde (Av. México 2903) serves elevated Mexican cuisine with a modern twist. 

Locals love to venture here for special occasions. It is possible to participate in an 11-course tasting menu for 1900 pesos per person ($98). The menu changes frequently throughout the year depending on what is in season and is the brainchild of Executive Chef Ruan Paco. 

Restaurante Allium (C. Manuel López Cotilla 1752) is a farm-to-table concept eatery by chef Adolfo Galnares who studied at the Culinary Institute of America in NYC. The restaurant prides itself on working with small producers, and the menu is forever changing. 

The Huitlacoche risotto, the smoked beets, and the cheese plate ¨Quesart¨ from Atotonilco are nice dishes to start with. If you enjoy seafood, you can indulge in the catch of the day served with sikil pak, bagna cauda, or smoked tomato. 

FAQs about the best things to do in Guadalajara 

Do you have any more burning questions about the best things to do in Guadalajara or planning a visit to the city in general? Hopefully, you will find the answers you are searching for below. 

Is Guadalajara worth visiting? 

Guadalajara is well worth visiting. There is plenty to do in the city to warrant spending 3-4 days here. 

You may also want to stay in Guadalajara as a base for exploring the wider region of Jalisco and some of the small villages nearby. You can also travel onwards from Guadalajara to Puerto Vallarta and Talpa de Allende, Mascota, and San Sebastián del Oeste.  

What is Guadalajara best known for?

Guadalajara is perhaps best known for being the home of mariachi, Mexican charreada, and tequila. From a tourist perspective, the city offers many historical buildings and museums.

Is Guadalajara a walkable city?

It is very easy to explore the majority of Guadalajara on foot. The only thing to remember is that this is still a Latin American city, so you cannot just walk aimlessly anywhere. You can walk through the historic center towards Colonia Americana for instance. And the central part of Tlaquepaque is safe. 

However, you should be careful about wandering into the eastern part of Guadalajara, past the San Juan de Dios market. The El Cerro del Cuatro area of Tlaquepaque should be avoided and Colonia del Fresno is not safe. 

Which is better? Guadalajara or Mexico City?

Guadalajara and Mexico City are both wonderful in their own way. Mexico City is obviously the larger of the two, and its various neighborhoods and districts are so huge they are like individual villages in themselves. For instance, it will take you an entire day to explore Chapultapec park and Polanco, another day to see Coyoacan, etc. If you spend a week in Mexico City, you feel as though you have barely scratched beneath the surface. 

Meanwhile, 3-4 days in Guadalajara is enough to get an initial feel for the Jalisco capital. It depends on how much you like big cities! 

Mexico City has the better museums of the two, and its Museo Nacional de Antropología is the most important in the country. The Teotihuacan ruins make a great day trip from Mexico City, whereas Guadalajara is closer to Jaliscos pueblo magicos.

Final thoughts on things to do in Guadalajara 

Have you ever traveled to Guadalajara or the state of Jalisco before? What did you think? 

What things to do in Guadalajara appeal to you the most? If you are traveling to Mexico for the first time, you may enjoy reading this list of Mexico travel tips.  

Have a wonderful trip! Buen Viaje! Xo 

Melissa Douglas

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Home » Travel Guides » Mexico » 15 Best Things to Do in Guadalajara (Mexico)

15 Best Things to Do in Guadalajara (Mexico)

The capital of the western Mexican state of Jalisco, Guadalajara is at the heart of the second largest urban area in Mexico.

The city has monuments to match its status, like the Hospicio Cabañas, a splendid hospital complex from the turn of the 19th century, and a 400-year-old Colonial Renaissance cathedral.

Also in Guadalajara’s conurbation is the city of Tlaquepaque, featuring a charming old centre with a flair for arts and crafts and mariachi.

For a day trip, Tequila is an easy drive through fields of blue agave cultivated for Mexico’s beloved spirit.

Guadalajara also hosts the mammoth Mercado San Juan de Dios, the largest indoor market in the Americas.

There you’ll be tempted by treats like iced horchata, a refreshing rice, vanilla and cinnamon drink, and tortas ahogadas, sandwiches soaked in a chilli sauce.

Let’s explore the best things to do in Guadalajara :

1. Cathedral

The main church for the Archdiocese of Guadalajara, the cathedral is edged by four plazas that form a cross shape.

This monument has come through all kinds of catastrophes, including no fewer than seven earthquakes.

One in 1818 brought down the dome and the towers, which were rebuilt later in the century in a neo-Gothic style.

The remainder of the cathedral dates to the 16th and 17th centuries and has Colonial Renaissance architecture.

The stained glass was shipped from France, while in the chancel and various chapels are seven majestic altars, including one to Our Lady of Zapopan, Guadalajara’s patron saint.

She divides her time between the cathedral and a nearby basilica, which we’ll cover later.

A creepy curiosity is the preserved mummy of Santa Inocencia, a girl said to have been killed by her father in the 1700s.

2. Hospicio Cabañas

A World Heritage Site, this immense complex was established in 1791 as a hospital, almshouse, orphanage and workhouse.

With a large rectangular footprint, it has the same kind of format as Madrid’s El Escorial or Les Invalides in Paris.

Something interesting about Hospicio Cabañas is that everything is laid out on one level, to make it easier for the infirm, elderly and children to get around.

The man behind the design was the Mexico City architect Manuel Tolsá who embellished the complex with balustrades and arcades around 23 courtyards.

If there’s one thing to look out for, it’s the series of frescoes by José Clemente Orozco, culminating with “Man of Fire” in the dome, painted in 1936-39.

3. Templo Expiatorio del Santísimo Sacramento

A shining piece of neo-Gothic architecture, this church was built over 75 years between 1897 and 1972. With dainty tracery, crockets, a rose window and mosaics in its tympana, it’s almost indistinguishable from a European Medieval building.

That is no accident, as the church’s stonework and fittings were handmade using the same methods.

The church’s clock was crafted in Germany, together with its 25-bell carillon.

When the clock chimes you can see little statues of the 12 Apostles rotating through the campanile.

The chancel and nave are lit by tall and slender stained glass windows painted by two artisans from Orléans on a template by the artist Maurice Rocher.

4. Tlaquepaque

Once a city of its own, Tlaquepaque was engulfed by the conurbation in the 20th century, and is set just six kilometres southeast of the centre of Guadalajara.

The Historic Centre of Tlaquepaque is as pretty as it gets, with historic mansions, orange trees, colonial churches and a beautiful arcaded plaza, El Parián.

This is traced by bars and restaurants and has a bandstand at the centre, and the sound of Mariachi bands will never be far away.

Tlaquepaque is famed for these ensembles, and they’re a key part of the San Pedro festivities in June when the streets of the Historic Centre are garlanded with papel picado (paper banners). The city also has an artisan tradition, and glassware, pottery shops, candle stores, pewter forges and art galleries abound.

5. Rotonda de los Jaliscienses Ilustres

In the very centre of the city, opposite the cathedral, is a monument behind railings, paying homage to the State of Jalisco’s most prominent figures.

Designed by the architect Vicente Mendiola and built in 1952, the rotunda has 17 fluted columns without capitals or bases, arranged in a circle.

In the frieze above is an inscription reading “Jalisco a sus hijos esclarecidos” (From Jalisco to its enlightened sons). In the trough below are the tombs of 96 famous Jaliscans, while the garden around has 22 statues of some of the more distinguished personalities.

Among them are the Pritzker Prize-winning architect Luis Barragán, poet Enrique González Martínez and painter José Clemente Orozco.

6. Basilica of Our Lady of Zapopan

This 17th-century Franciscan church complex is in Zapopan, eight kilometres northwest of Guadalajara Cathedral.

The basilica has theatrical colonial Baroque architecture, fronted by a gateway that has a pair of powerful Ionic columns.

Passing through to the courtyard you’ll be greeted by a sumptuous facade of scrolls and delicately sculpted reliefs, under two domed bell towers.

The interior is similarly exuberant, with fluted columns, polychrome statues, paintings and lots of gold leaf.

On 12 October the basilica witnesses Mexico’s third-largest pilgrimage.

More than a million worshippers join a procession with the Virgin of Zapopan from Guadalajara Cathedral to the basilica.

This image of Mary was carved in Spain in the Middle Ages and brought to Mexico in the 1500s.

7. Palacio de Gobierno

The seat of Guadalajara’s Municipal Council is an eye-catching neo-Colonial building completed in 1952. The facade has an arcade, pinnacles and Guadalajara’s carved coat of arms, while the interior is known for the massive murals that decorate its hallways and chambers.

These were painted by José Clemente Orozco and Gabriel Flores, another of the luminaries to appear on the Rotunda nearby.

You can pop inside to see the monumental image of the revolutionary leader Miguel Hidalgo y Costillo on the ceiling above the main stairway.

8. Plaza de la Liberación

There are four plazas around the cathedral, all with food vendors if you’re up for a tamale, taco or torta (sandwich). The largest public space is Plaza de la Liberación to the east.

This square, drawn up in 1952, is often used for free concerts and is known locally as the “Plaza de las Dos Copas”, for its two fountains shaped like wine glasses.

There’s a larger than life-sized monument to Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla symbolising his abolition of slavery in 1810. Afterwards you can drop by Plaza Guadalajara, which has an underground shopping centre, and Plaza de Armas, where there’s a French 19th-century wrought iron bandstand used in the past for rabble-rousing political speeches.

9. San Juan de Dios Market

Guadalajara has the largest indoor market in Latin America.

The San Juan de Dios Market was built in 1958, taking up 40,000 square metres and with 2,980 stalls.

These sell almost anything you can think of, be it shoes, DVDs, eyeglasses, homewares, electrical and clothing.

Tourists flock to the market’s many arts and crafts stalls, found along with fresh produce on the first floor.

Go up a level and you’ll come to the restaurants and food stalls, which are another big attraction.

One indulgent Guadalajaran speciality to taste is a torta ahogada (drowned sandwich), in which a bolillo bread sandwich is filled with fried pork (carnitas), chicken or beans and served on a deep plate flooded with a sauce made with arbol chillies, vinegar and garlic.

You can decide how spicy you want the sauce and how “drowned” you want your sandwich to be.

10. Bosque Colomos

At the boundary between Guadalajara and Zapopan is a lush 92-hectare park with more than 32,000 trees.

At Bosque Colomos you’ll meet families having picnics under eucalyptus trees and jogging trails that weave deep into the woodland.

The park has a Japanese garden for a few minutes of quiet contemplation, and at the centre is a large lake, supporting a few bird and amphibian species.

There’s a regular market for food and arts and crafts, and stables for children to try horse riding.

11. Panteón de Belén

Until the Rotonda de los Jaliscienses Ilustres was built, Jalisco’s preeminent figures were honoured at this cemetery, in use from 1848 to 1896. With mausoleums, chapels, tombs and statues the Panteón de Belén is an outdoor museum of 19th-century funerary architecture.

It was planned by architect Manuel Gómez Ibarra, who also appears on the Jalisco rotunda.

A standout monument here is the Egyptian Chapel, so-called for its pyramidal roof.

The general spookiness of the cemetery has given rise to all manner of legends about pirates, monks and vampires, all now engrained in local folklore.

There are extra visitors around Day of the Dead (2 November) for daylight and creepy night-time tours.

12. Guadalajara Zoo

A swift taxi ride from the Historic Centre, the Guadalajara Zoo is rated as one of the best in Latin America and has a higher variety of species than any in Mexico.

The enclosures are embedded in well-maintained gardens, providing ample shade and equipped with added attractions like the “Sky Zoo” an aerial tramway with a bird’s-eye view of the monkey, gorilla, lion, bison and wolf habitats, and a “Masai Mara” safari experience in which you’ll get close to giraffes, elephants, rhinos, hippos and ostriches.

Other family favourites are the zoo’s train, aquarium with a glass tunnel and the Antarctica Zone, where you can briefly experience sub-zero temperatures and watch playful Adélie and Gentoo penguins.

13. Parque Mirador Independencia

Just past the zoo on the northern edge of the Guadalajara Metropolitan Area is the Barranca de Oblatos, a canyon cut by the Río Grande de Santiago and the most convenient hiking destination near the city.

In the 1970s a park was set up on the rim of the canyon, with sweeping vistas across the 500-metre ravine.

The most dramatic lookout in the park is from the benches at the amphitheatre where the bluffs and verdant slopes are mesmerising.

14. Lake Chapala

Under an hour south of Guadalajara is Mexico’s largest freshwater lake, with a surface area of 1,100 kilometres.

The shore has consistently mild temperatures, around 22°C in any season, and this has drawn lots of American and Canadian expats to lakeside communities like Ajijic.

In this town there’s a superb market on Wednesdays, and a gorgeous waterfront park and palm-fringed promenade looking towards the mountains on the south shore.

Something to taste at Lake Chapala are charalitos, which are deep-fried minnows like Spanish pescaditos fritos, topped with chilli and lemon.

From the town of Chapala you can catch a boat out to Scorpion Island, which has food and drink stands, a couple of chapels and paths traced by lush vegetation and flowers.

15. Tequila

The road leaving the conurbation to the northwest passes through an ocean of bluish-green spikes.

These belong to the blue agave plant, which is the main ingredient in Mexico’s most famous beverage.

Tequila is an hour away from Guadalajara and is essential, even for non-drinkers, as Tequila and its agave landscape is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Almost every shop in the town is tequila-related, selling shot glasses and tequila sets, but if you want to cut to the heart of the industry you have to book a tour at La Rojeña, the distillery for Jose Cuervo.

This best-selling tequila brand was founded in 1795 and is still operated by the descendants of Don José Antonio de Cuervo, who was awarded a land grant for Tequila by King Ferdinand VI in 1758.

15 Best Things to Do in Guadalajara (Mexico):

• Hospicio Cabañas
• Templo Expiatorio del Santísimo Sacramento
• Tlaquepaque
• Rotonda de los Jaliscienses Ilustres
• Basilica of Our Lady of Zapopan
• Palacio de Gobierno
• Plaza de la Liberación
• San Juan de Dios Market
• Bosque Colomos
• Panteón de Belén
• Guadalajara Zoo
• Parque Mirador Independencia
• Lake Chapala

Guadalajara (Jalisco): Top 40 Things To Do and Must-See Attractions

Things to do in guadalajara: the 40 best places to visit.

You’re planning to visit Guadalajara during your next trip and you’re looking for the best places to visit?

You’re at the right place!

Guadalajara, the capital of Jalisco, is renowned for its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning architecture. It’s a city where traditional Mexican charm meets modern urban life.

In order to help you plan your stay, I have written this guide of the best things to do in Guadalajara with all the must-see attractions and points of interest.

At the end of the article, you will also find family friendly activites, itineraries to visit Guadalajara in 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5 days as well as my suggestions of the best accommodations depending on your budget.

So, what are the best places to visit in Guadalajara? Where to stay?

Let’s find out!

1. Plaza de Armas: The Heart of Guadalajara

2. guadalajara cathedral, 3. palacio de gobierno, 4. museo regional de guadalajara, 5. rotonda de los jaliscienses ilustres, 6. palacio municipal de guadalajara, 7. teatro degollado, 8. plaza fundadores, 9. biblioteca iberoamericana, 10. museo del periodismo y las artes gráficas, 11. casa museo lopez portillo, 12. plaza de los mariachis, 13. plaza tapatía, 14. instituto cultural cabañas (hospicio cabañas), 15. explore the markets of guadalajara, 16. taste the famous torta ahogada, 17. plazoleta las 9 esquinas: for food and culture, 18. ex convento del carmen, 19. templo expiatorio, 20. museo de las artes, 21. puente de las damas museum, 22. calle chapultepec: the vibrant heart of guadalajara, 23. antiques market, 24. stroll through colonia americana, 25. walk in the center of zapopan, 26. discover the charro culture, 27. taste the artesanal beers of guadalajara, 28. experience lucha libre, 29. tlaquepaque, 30. tonala: a craft lover’s paradise, 31. tequila: more than just a drink, 32. pre-hispanice site of guachimontones, 33. lake chapala, 34. puerto vallarta, 35. mazamitla: a mountain getaway, 36. opal mines of magdalena, 37. picturesque villages of tapalpa and atacco, 38. selva magica: an amusement park adventure, 39. guadalajara zoo, 40. acuario michin (aquarium), 41. wax and ripley museums, 42. bosque los colomos, map of the best things to do in guadalajara, where to stay in guadalajara, how many days to visit guadalajara, by public transport, what should you eat and drink in guadalajara, when is the best time to visit guadalajara, best tips to visit guadalajara, you’re traveling in mexico these articles will help you.

As you step into the Plaza de Armas, the vibrant epicenter of Guadalajara, you’re immediately enveloped in the city’s dynamic pulse.

Surrounded by imposing historical buildings, including the Government Palace and the Cathedral , this square is not just a feast for the eyes but also a hub of cultural activity.

Here, you can relax on one of the many benches and soak in the lively atmosphere, often enhanced by street musicians and local artists.

The Plaza de Armas is a great place to start exploring Guadalajara. It shows you the city’s rich history and modern life. You can take photos of the beautiful buildings or relax with a coffee at a café nearby. It’s a place you should definitely visit in Guadalajara!

In the heart of Guadalajara stands its magnificent Cathedral , a blend of Gothic, Baroque, and Moorish styles, and home to one of the largest organs in Mexico , originally from France.

Inside, you’ll be greeted by the elegant Gothic interior, featuring three charming chapels and nine altars . Each altar is decorated with stunning paintings by renowned Mexican artists.

This cathedral is not just a place for prayer; it’s a symbol of the city’s rich history and art, making it a must-visit destination in Guadalajara .

The Palacio de Gobierno (State of Jalisco Government Building) is a key site in Guadalajara , important for both its government role and its history.

Inside, you’ll see powerful murals by José Clemente Orozco that show Mexico’s fight for freedom.

There’s also a museum that offers a detailed look at the history of the region , including the lives of the ethnic groups that first inhabited the area, the impactful events during the arrival of the Spanish colonizers, and the founding of the city of Guadalajara.

• Free entrance
• mon-sat 10am-6pm, sun 10am-3pm

Located in a beautiful 18th-century building, the Regional Museum of Guadalajara stands as a dynamic center, offering a vast collection of paleontological, archaeological, historical, and ethnographic pieces.

As you start your journey on the first level, you’re greeted with an incredible sight – a mammoth skeleton!

Beyond its permanent displays, it hosts temporary exhibitions and a variety of cultural events , ensuring there’s always something new to discover.

To keep up with the latest happenings and special exhibits, don’t forget to check their Facebook page before your visit.

• tue-sat 9am-4.30 pm, sun 9am-4pm

The Rotonda de los Jaliscienses Ilustres is a meaningful spot in the center of Guadalajara, dedicated to the state’s most influential figures.

This area, with its statues and green spaces, pays tribute to Jalisco’s heroes , including writers, scientists, and educators who have shaped the state’s history and culture.

The Palacio Municipal de Guadalajara (city hall) is a special place that combines beautiful architecture with interesting history.

When you go inside, you’ll see amazing murals that tell the story of the city, especially on the first floor .

Upstairs, on the second floor , you can enjoy a lovely view of the cathedral .

The Palacio frequently hosts temporary exhibitions alongside its permanent statues and displays, ensuring there’s always something new to see.

Personally, I really enjoyed walking around in its cool, shaded halls when it was hot outside! 🥵

• free entrance
• 8am-4pm, monday closed

Teatro Degollado, as one of the top attractions in Guadalajara, is a beacon of cultural significance in Jalisco.

As the home of the Jalisco Philharmonic Orchestra , it hosts several key cultural events, including the Galas of the National Traditional Mariachi Encounter , the International Mariachi and Charrería Encounter , and the Cultural Festival of May .

The theater’s neoclassical architecture , celebrated as the best-preserved in Latin America, provides an elegant backdrop for these prestigious events.

You can check out upcoming events (click here) , but it’s also worth a visit in its own right , even without attending a concert!

Located just behind the Teatro Degollado, Plaza Fundadores holds a special place in the heart of Guadalajara as the city’s original Plaza de Armas .

What I personally find fascinating about Plaza Fundadores is how it reflects the complex duality of Mexico’s identity .

Here, you’ll find two significant sculptures: the ‘ Friso de los Fundadores ,’ depicting the Spanish founders of Guadalajara , and a statue of Francisco Tenamaztle , an indigenous leader from the 16th-century Mixtón War .

Nestled in the heart of Guadalajara, the Biblioteca Iberoamericana Octavio Paz offers a unique combination of historical and cultural riches.

This four centuries-old building , now a part of the Universidad de Guadalajara , is home to over 90,000 volumes , making it a haven for book lovers. Equally impressive are its murals by renowned artists like David Alfaro Siqueiros , which depict themes of education, labor movement, and socialism.

Open to the public free of charge, the Biblioteca Iberoamericana is a perfect spot for those looking to immerse themselves in a world where art, history, and literature converge in Guadalajara.

This museum is dedicated to showcasing the history of radio, film, journalism, and television.

It occupies a historic site where, in 1792, the city’s first printing press was established and where ‘El Despertador Americano’, the first independent newspaper in America, was printed.

The museum features a didactic room where visitors can explore the history of graphic communication presented as a timeline.

This timeline takes you from ancient cave paintings to the first printing press in Guadalajara, including the pivotal invention of the printing press in Germany in 1450.

It also houses sections dedicated to graphic arts, detailing the processes of pre-printing, printing, and binding, and displays 19th-century printing presses and equipment used for printing magazines and newspapers.

• tue-fri 10am-6pm, sat-sun 10am-4pm

Near Plaza de la Reforma and its famous Carrusel Monumental , Casa Museo Lopez Portillo, once a family home, now stands as a cultural gem set in a late 19th-century household ambiance.

The museum features nine permanent rooms, each offering a glimpse into a bygone era.

Visitors can admire rooms furnished with decorative objects and oil paintings in styles ranging from Victorian to Empire, and Louis XIV to Louis XVI. Additionally, the museum boasts the Gabriel Flores Gallery for temporary exhibitions and a dedicated Music Room, enriching its cultural offering.

• tue-sat 10am-5pm, sun 10am-3pm

I stumbled upon Plaza de los Mariachis while wandering, a bit lost, in search of the famous San Juan de Dios market .

This charming square is a tribute to mariachi music, recognized by UNESCO for its cultural significance.

Lined with cafes and restaurants, each boasting terraces where you can relax, it’s a place vibrant with live mariachi performances.

What’s really cool is that at any time of the day, there’s always a mariachi band around . You can request songs directly from the bands in the plaza or even call them up to your terrace!

• The cost for a song starts around 150-200 pesos

Close to Plaza de los Mariachis and the bustling San Juan de Dios market is Plaza Tapatía , a name that reflects its deep connection to the city: “Tapatía” means “from Guadalajara”.

This expansive square, stretching from the Teatro Degollado to the Hospicio Cultural Cabañas along Calzada Independencia , is not merely a single plaza but rather a collection of several smaller ones , including the Paseo del Hospicio and the Central Esplanade.

A standout feature of the plaza is the Inmolación de Quetzalcóatl fountain , adorned with a striking sculpture that represents Quetzalcóatl , a key figure in Mesoamerican mythology, rising from the earth.

My Advice  When exploring Plaza Tapatía, don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Secretaria de Turismo del Estado de Jalisco, located within the plaza.

The Instituto Cultural Cabañas, whose construction began in 1805, is a large and impressive building with 23 patios, 106 rooms, 78 hallways, and 2 chapels. It’s recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site , known historically as the Hospicio Cabañas.

Within the Capilla Tolsá , you’ll find stunning murals, including Orozco’s famous ‘ El hombre de fuego ‘ (The Man of Fire) on the dome. Additionally, the institute houses 340 of Orozco’s works , which are exhibited to visitors on a rotating basis.

Besides Orozco’s art, the institute also has art shows from Mexico and other countries. It has special collections by artists like Mathías Goeritz and works by artists from Jalisco, called the Colección pueblo de Jalisco .

• tue-sun 10am-5pm
• 80 pesos, free on tuesday

No visit to Guadalajara is complete without exploring its vibrant markets, Mercado Corona and Mercado San Juan de Dios.

Mercado Corona , situated in the heart of the city, offers an authentic local experience. Here, you can find a variety of fresh produce, traditional foods, and unique crafts. It’s a great place to taste local delicacies and interact with the friendly vendors.

Mercado Libertad , also commonly known as Mercado San Juan de Dios, is renowned as the largest indoor market in Latin America !

There are about 3000 stalls that sell clothes, glasses, shoes, movies, video games, musical instruments, candies, cold meats, fruits and vegetables, and so on.

Obviously my favorite part is the ground floor, with the local food from Guadalajara , such as tortas ahogadas , which is the most typical dish of Jalisco , tacos, pozole, menudo, etc. This is where I experienced my first torta ahogada!

The Torta Ahogada is the most iconic dish of Guadalajara , and it’s so beloved that, believe it or not, September 10th is celebrated as ‘ Día de la Torta Ahogada ‘ in the city to honor this special culinary creation!

Even though there are some variations today, the traditional recipe consists of birote (a local bread essential for this dish – without it, it’s NOT a true Torta Ahogada), refried beans , carnitas (pork), and a sauce made from tomato and chile de árbol .

On my visit to Guadalajara, I first tried the Torta Ahogada at Tortas Mario in San Juan de Dios Market . It was a good-sized portion at a fair price. Though it was tasty, I wasn’t quite used to a saucy, moderately warm sandwich, so my brain was a bit confused at first.

Then, seeking to compare, I went to a more hidden spot, El Chino – the best places are often tucked away, right?

I hadn’t known that locals usually eat Torta Ahogadas in the morning and for lunch, so by 4pm when I got there, they had completely run out of birote bread and only had a little meat left.

But, and this is the best part, the owner was incredibly kind . He set up a table for us outside and even sent his helper to quickly get more bread.

He made us a Torta Ahogada with what he had left. It was my most delightful encounter in Guadalajara – his kindness made that Torta Ahogada unforgettable and it now holds a special place in my heart. Plus, I preferred his slightly crisped carnitas over the softer ones at the market. 😋

• But even though the welcome at El Chino was far superior, each Torta Ahogada was unique in its own way, and I’m glad I had the chance to taste both!

Plazoleta Las 9 Esquinas is a charming square in Guadalajara, famous for offering a real taste of Jalisco.

Here, you can enjoy birria , a special dish originally from Jalisco, even though it’s now popular in other states too. The square is also known for its bright stands selling pitayas , juicy fruits mostly from the village of Techaluta de Montenegro.

Originally built in the 17th century for the Carmelites, the Ex Convento del Carmen now stands as a captivating piece of history in Guadalajara.

Its classic architecture is highlighted by a beautiful archway encircling a bright, white patio.

Today, this historic building functions as a key cultural center , offering five rooms that display a range of art shows, including paintings, photographs, and sculptures.

• free admission
• tue-sat 10am-8pm, sun 10am-6pm

The Templo Expiatorio del Santísimo Sacramento is a striking example of neo-Gothic architecture and is considered the finest example of this style in Mexico.

It was designed by Adamo Boari, who was also involved in the planning of Mexico City ‘s Palacio de Bellas Artes and Palacio de Correos – two magnificent buildings in the capital.

The construction of the temple took an astonishing 75 years to complete, partly due to the disruptions caused by the Mexican Revolution !

• One of the temple’s most captivating features is its clock, made in Germany, which includes a musical carillon. At 9 am, 12 pm, and 6 pm , figures of the twelve apostles of Jesus emerge as the bells ring, creating a mesmerizing spectacle.

The Museo de las Artes (MUSA) at the University of Guadalajara is a central point for artistic exploration, showcasing a wide range of contemporary art from Jalisco .

The museum is home to two magnificent murals by the master artist José Clemente Orozco : “ El hombre creador y rebelde ” (The Creative and Rebellious Man) depicts the dynamic and ever-changing nature of humanity, while “ El pueblo y sus falsos líderes ” (The People and Their False Leaders) portrays the struggle between the people and those who mislead them.

MUSA’s collection features over 100 pieces, including a variety of techniques and formats from the most significant artists in Jalisco , as well as national and international artists.

• tue-sat 10am-6pm, sun 10am-3pm

I was really captivated by the Puente de las Damas when I visited Guadalajara!

This hidden 18th-century architectural and hidraulic marvel, discovered in 2016, lies beneath the intersection of Colón Street and Avenida de La Paz in the historic Mexicaltzingo neighborhood.

This remarkable discovery led to the establishment of the Museo de Sitio del Puente de las Damas, a museum dedicated to showcasing the rich history of the tunnels and bridges that once graced Guadalajara.

The Puente de las Damas stands out as a nearly intact survivor of this elaborate system, a testament to the city’s past, even though it was eventually buried under the rapid urban expansion in the early 20th century .

Exploring the Puente de las Damas reminded me of how much I love walking through the underground tunnels in Puebla !

• Entry is free, but you must enter with a guide
• Tours are available every hour from 11 AM to 5 PM, but closed on Mondays
• Each tour lasts about 20-30 minutes.

Avenida Chapultepec is renowned for being one of the most iconic and cultural streets in the city .

As you stroll, you’ll find it’s much more than just a place for a walk. It regularly hosts musical events , bringing a vibrant and dynamic atmosphere.

It transforms into a vibrant market on weekends and weekdays with a variety of stalls with crafts, bazaars, and unique items, perfect for a shopping and local art experience.

Also, the avenue is a popular spot for nightlife , offering many bars and clubs that suit different preferences.

My Advice Every Sunday (and holidays falling on Mondays) from 8 am to 2 pm , Chapultepec Avenue and other main avenues in Guadalajara are closed to cars to allow bicycles to circulate freely and safely! – Click here to see the complete map of closed streets.

Every Sunday for over 30 years, Guadalajara’s Avenida Mexico transforms into the Tianguis de Antigüedades (Antiques Market), a vibrant marketplace that serves as a portal to the past.

Vendors from all over set up their stalls early, offering everything from vintage furniture and classic vinyl records to books and unique jewelry.

Both locals and visitors wander through, searching for hidden treasures or soaking up the nostalgic and ecclectic ambiance.

• It usually starts in the morning around 9 or 10 AM and runs until the early afternoon, around 2 or 3 PM

Colonia Americana, one of Guadalajara’s oldest neighborhoods , is celebrated for its stunning blend of historical and contemporary architecture.

As you walk through its streets, you’ll come accross cozy cafés , quiet libraries , and a variety of boutiques offering trendy fashion and artisanal crafts, alongside numerous art galleries .

The dining scene is vibrant and hip , featuring trendy restaurants that serve a mix of traditional Mexican and international cuisine, sure to satisfy any taste.

As night falls, the neighborhood transforms into a lively scene with an array of unique bars, each offering a different vibe.

This rich combination of culture, shopping, dining, and nightlife makes Colonia Americana an exceptional destination, recognized by “ Time Out International ” as the world’s most attractive neighborhood for travelers!

Where to eat and drink in Colonia Americana?

In Colonia Americana, my go-to spots for dining and sipping are:

• El Habanero Negro : This place captured my heart with its delectable cochinita pibil and plantain tacos . Their chejuino (beer and tejuino mix) is not just refreshing but addictively good, and the ambiance is enhanced by their unique decor .

• Neretta : Just a stone’s throw from El Habanero Negro, it’s my favorite spot for a post-meal espresso. Pairing it with their homemade gelato is an absolute delight.

• La Postreria : A paradise for dessert lovers seeking creative indulgences.

Following them on Instagram heightened my excitement, and my visit did not disappoint! Each creation, from the Bosque with its unique blend of eucalyptus, forest fruits, pistachio, and fresh herbs, to the tropical fusion in the Coconut dessert, was a work of art.

The camembert & jerez , combining cheesecake, pine nuts, honey, and jerez, added a distinctive and unforgettable flavor to their impressive lineup.

• De La O Cantina

Striking a unique balance between a traditional cantina and a tiki bar , this is the best place to have a drink in Colonia Americana , exuding a hipster vibe that’s both inviting and trendy.

With good music setting the scene, their cocktail menu and snacks are top-notch. I recommend trying the cecina, the chicharrón quesadilla, the nopales tostada, and the bean taco – each offering a taste of authentic Mexican flavors.

The cantina’s name, inspired by the Mexican revolutionary Genovevo de la O, adds a historical touch to its modern ambiance.

Do note that it’s closed on Tuesdays.

Zapopan, originally founded as an ancient town in 1541 and now a vital part of the Guadalajara metropolis, derives its name from ‘Tzapopan’ or ‘Tzapotl’ in Nahuatl , meaning “place of zapotes (fruit) .”

It stands as the second most populous municipality in Jalisco and the seventh most populous in Mexico.

Though I’m not sure you’ll find many zapote trees these days, the historic center of Zapopan is a must-visit in Guadalajara, definitely worth exploring.

To make the most of your visit to Zapopan (2-3h), here’s a recommended itinerary:

• Begin at the entrance from Zapopan Fountain and Monumento Arcos de Zapopan .
• Walk along Andador 20 de Noviembre , a pedestrian street filled with cafes featuring terraces, boutiques, and more.
• Visit the Museo de Arte de Zapopan
• Take a photo with the giant Zapopan letters
• Explore Plaza de las Americas (Juan Pablo II)
• See the Basilica de Zapopan
• Finally, visit the Museo de Arte Huichol Wixárika , a small museum- a bit hidden right next to the Basilica- dedicated to the art and craftsmanship of the Huichol people

My Advice If you’re keen on learning more about Huichol culture , I highly recommend buying the small book available at the “Wixarika Museo de Arte Huichol” souvenir shop.

In Mexico, a charro is traditionally a countryside horseman and often a ranch worker, known for performing various tasks on horseback with exceptional horsemanship and lasso skills, and distinguished by a unique riding costume.

While from afar, a charro might seem similar to a Mexican cowboy , in reality, it embodies a deeper and richer aspect of Mexican culture, marked by pride, elegance, and extraordinary equestrian artistic talents.

The term now also refers to practitioners of charreada, Mexico’s national sport akin to a rodeo , adhering to traditional rules that date back to colonial times.

The charro’s history is deeply ingrained in Mexican heritage , particularly in Jalisco , where the tradition of Charrería is still fervently alive and celebrated, notably during the International Mariachi and Charrería Festival .

My Advice  If you’re eager to dive into the captivating world of the Mexican charro, consider taking the Charro and Charreada Cultural Tour.

This experience begins at the Lienzo , a charro arena, where a charro will greet you and introduce the history of Mexican charros in the on-site museum . You’ll see a fantastic array of traditional costumes and accessories used in the Charreada (charreria contest).

The tour includes a lasso lesson , showcasing the uniquen Mexican lasso techniques compared to those used globally. You’ll get hands-on experience with grooming and saddling horses, and if possible, join a horse parade alongside the charros.

The tour also involves participating in traditional Charrería activities , guided by an expert charro. The experience concludes with a celebration, enjoying tequila and mariachi music .

In my humble opinion, it is the best tour in Guadalajara !  Book the charro experience here:

Mexico’s craft beer industry has grown significantly recently, with Jalisco at the forefront of production and sales.

The country now boasts over 1,400 craft breweries , and Jalisco alone contributes 20% to the nation’s total craft beer output , surpassing 37 million liters last year!🍺

Of course, as the capital of the state, Guadalajara is an excellent place to taste some of the best craft beers Jalisco has to offer.

I highly recommend checking out these bars and taprooms in Guadalajara for a taste of the local beer scene.

• Santa Sabina  
• Patan Ale House
• Cerveceria La Blanca
• El Deposito
• Cerveceria Cielito Lindo
• Cerveza Loba

On my last trip to Guadalajara, I visited El Deposito and was impressed by their extensive selection.

I ended up choosing a Playacar from Minerva , which is undoubtedly the most famous craft beer company in Jalisco. It’s an India Pale Pilsner with a bright yellow color, refreshing notes of guava, soursop, lychee, and freshly cut citrus: it was the perfect choice for a hot day!

Brewing Tour Take the brewing tour in Guadalajara for a unique experience!

Meet your guide at Via Libertad and walk through Colonia Americana, seeing historic buildings along the way.

Visit Loba , one of Guadalajara’s top breweries , for a tour of their beer-making process and enjoy a pint.

Finish with a tasting of five different beers in their taproom. It’s a great way to start your night and dive into the local brewing scene.

Book it here:

Attending a Lucha Libre show is a must-do activity in Guadalajara. These unique professional wrestling events, held at the Coliseo every Tuesday at 9 PM , are a vibrant part of Mexican popular culture.

Known for high-flying maneuvers, colorful masks, and a blend of athleticism and theatrical flair, Lucha Libre (Mexican Professional Wrestling) offers an exciting and authentic cultural experience.

I have to say, while the luchadores in Guadalajara are certainly impressive, what I love the most is the crowd’s enthusiasm . The energy is infectious, with people cheering and sometimes booing, which adds so much to the experience. It’s really fun!

My Advice  Join the Lucha Libre tour for an unforgettable experience!

Starting from Plaza de las 9 Esquinas , you’ll first visit a traditional cantina for a drink, setting the mood for the evening. Then, on a short walk to the arena with your guide, you’ll discover the myths and legends of the historic neighborhoods you pass through. Finally, you’ll arrive at the thrilling Lucha Libre match !

Around Guadalajara

There are several destinations worth exploring from Guadalajara. Each offers a unique glimpse into the region’s diverse landscape and culture.

Tlaquepaque, a town in Mexico renowned for its rich artisanal heritage, offers a deep dive into the world of ceramics and pottery.

Beyond its impressive craftsmanship, the town’s tourist sites and picturesque rustic streets add to its charm. Conveniently near Guadalajara (6 miles, 10km), it’s an ideal destination for a quick and easy day or half-day trip.

For a memorable day in Tlaquepaque , begin with a visit to the Ceramic Museum , a walk along Independencia Avenue , and some relaxation at Jardin Hidalgo .

Continue your afternoon with a visit to Centro Cultural El Refugio , a delightful lunch at El Parian or Restaurante Luna , and shopping at El Arca Artesanias y Antiguedades and Casa del Artesano.

End your evening at Nuestros Dulces . Fun fact: they not only offers a wide variety of typical sweets but also boasts the largest selection of tequila in the world!

• Check out my Definitive Guide: 16 things to do and must-see attractions in Tlaquepaque!

How to get to Tlaquepaque from Guadalajara:

• You can get there in about 20-30 minutes by Uber, depending on the traffic.
• Alternatively, public transportation is a viable option: you can take the Tren Ligero (light rail) Line 3 from Guadalajara to Tlaquepaque, or hop on one of the local buses connecting the two cities.

My Advice If you’re short on time and prefer to skip the transportation hassle , booking a tour is the ideal choice.

It handles everything for you: transportation, a guided tour of both Guadalajara and Tlaquepaque , plus some free time to explore these places at your leisure.

Just a stone’s throw away from Tlaquepaque, Tonala stands out as an artistic center famous for its handicrafts and pottery.

A visit to the town’s vibrant artisan market is essential, offering an array of traditional Mexican crafts and souvenirs. Be sure to explore local workshops to see the talented artisans in action.

Known for its iconic liquor, Tequila , a UNESCO World Heritage site , is conveniently located a brief drive from Tlaquepaque.

This scenic town is home to famous tequila distilleries like Jose Cuervo and Herradura , where you can dive into the fascinating history of tequila, learn about the tequila-making process and sample this famous Mexican spirit.

Be sure to wander through the stunning agave fields that characterize the area’s landscape.

My Advice  If you want to learn about Tequila and prefer not to worry about transportation, joining this guided tour is your best option!

The tour will start with a pick-up from your Guadalajara hotel . You will explore agave fields, taste Tequila in a distillery, see how this famous drink is made, visit the towns of Tequila and Amatitán, and then return to Guadalajara.

Book the tequila tour from Guadalajara here:

Located just 90 minutes from Guadalajara, Guachimontones stands as a significant site in Western Mesoamerica .

This site is home to circular stepped pyramids and other fascinating structures from the Teuchitlán culture , thriving from about 300 BCE to 900 CE.

Visiting Guachimontones gives you a unique insight into the area’s ancient history and culture. Be sure to check out the interpretive center on-site for essential information and context about the site and its ancient inhabitants.

• Click here to book this tour , which includes pick up from your hotel in Guadalajara and a guided visit to Guachimontones with the museum
• For a more comprehensive experience, consider booking this tour (click here) that includes visits to both Guachimontones and the Jose Cuervo Agave fields and Distillery for an immersive tequila tour .

Lake Chapala, not only a favorite spot for locals and tourists but also Mexico’s largest freshwater lake , offers a scenic waterfront and charming towns like Ajijic and Chapala .

It’s perfect for a range of activities, including boat rides, bird watching, enjoying local cuisine and a fresh tejuino .

I was particularly charmed by Ajijic , with its art galleries, cute boutiques, and colorful streets. 😍

• For a complete understanding of Ajijic, be sure to Check out My Comprehensive Guide!

Puerto Vallarta is an exceptional destination, offering stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and a relaxing atmosphere.

If you’re visiting Guadalajara, I highly recommend extending your trip to include Puerto Vallarta. It might seem a bit of a stretch, but trust me, it’s a fantastic addition to the top things to do when in Guadalajara.

Think of it as an exciting road trip opportunity! I personally traveled from Mexico City to Guadalajara and then on to Puerto Vallarta .

Even though I was impressed by the capital of Jalisco, traveling to Puerto Vallarta was a great opportunity to see the amazing state’s diversity .

My Advice If a road trip isn’t your preference, there’s also the convenient option of a direct flight from Guadalajara to Puerto Vallarta , which takes just about an hour.

In Puerto Vallarta, you can stroll along the Malecon , wander through the Zona Romantica , visit Casa Kimberly (the famous house of Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor), relax at Playa Los Muertos, or – my personal favorite – take a boat tour to hidden beaches (click here to book!) like Colomitos, Las Animas, Quimixto, Las Caletas, and Yelapa.

For all the details on Vallarta, make sure to check out:

• My definitive guide of Puerto Vallarta with the 35 best things to do
• The 17 Best hotels in Puerto Vallarta: My Selection for Every Budget!

Mazamitla, often referred to as the “Switzerland of Mexico,” is a picturesque mountain town that provides a peaceful retreat from city life.

This quaint village is celebrated for its alpine-style buildings and dense pine forests. It’s a perfect spot for enjoying outdoor activities like hiking, horseback riding, and zip-lining, or just unwinding amidst stunning natural surroundings.

To explore Mazamitla from Guadalajara , you can book a tour (click here!) that includes hotel transport, a stop at “ Los Vampiritos ,” a short hike to a waterfall in an eco-park , and some free time to wander around Mazamitla.

What are Vampiritos? In San Luis Soyatlan , a popular stop on the way from Guadalajara to Mazamitla, you’ll find “vampiros” (translating to “small vampires”).

This refreshing drink combines ice, natural lemon and orange juices, grapefruit soda, salt, and homemade sangrita .

Located on the Tequila Route and just an hour from Guadalajara , Magdalena is a key player in opal mining and jewelry making.

The town, known as the world’s second-largest producer of opals , has a long mining tradition dating back to the colonial era when gold and silver were extracted.

In the Magdalena region, which has only 30,000 inhabitants, the focus is now on opal mining, with over 200 active mines.

My Advice The best way to visit Magdalena from Guadalajara is by joining a tour.

You will experience mining firsthand with tools provided by the miners, starting with a visit to an opal shop, exploring 4 opal mines , and even hunting for your own opals! ⛏️

The tour also includes a stop at an obsidian field. Enjoy some free time to look at various opals and make purchases, followed by lunch at a traditional Mexican restaurant.

You can book the opal tour here:

• Tapalpa is a charming town in the mountains of Jalisco , known for its scenic beauty and traditional Mexican architecture.

Renowned for its pine forests and picturesque landscapes , the town offers outdoor activities like hiking and horseback riding, making it a perfect getaway for nature lovers.

Its tranquil streets, lined with whitewashed houses and red-tiled roofs, create a peaceful and rustic atmosphere, ideal for those seeking a break from the hustle and bustle of city life.

• Close to Tapalpa and on the way to El Salto de Agua , the highest waterfall in the state (344 ft), you’ll come across Atacco , the first evangelization center in the area.

The Franciscans built the Hospital de Indios here to care for the indigenous population, which you can now visit.

This community is known for preserving its customs and traditions more than any other in the area.

My Advice To easily reach both villages, you can join a full-day private tour to the Pueblo Mágico of Tapalpa and the indigenous village of Attaco .

Starting from Guadalajara, discover Tapalpa’s beautiful scenery, visit its central plaza, old churches, and colonial buildings.

After lunch, explore Attaco, a village with a rich history and traditions, including a Franciscan-built “Hospital de Indios” and discover numerous medicinal plants.

What to Do with Kids in Guadalajara

Guadalajara is a fantastic family destination in Mexico , offering numerous top activities that are perfect for kids. Here’s a list of the best things to do with children in Guadalajara:

Selva Mágica, one of the country’s largest amusement parks , is the top family destination in Guadalajara.

The park offers something for all ages , featuring gentle carousels for young kids and thrilling roller coasters for adrenaline seekers.

This variety ensures that every family member, regardless of age or preference, has something to enjoy. Selva Mágica offers a well-rounded and enjoyable experience for all.

S ecure your VIP pass to Selva Mágica here, which includes access to 29 attractions , 8 thrilling activities at the Comando Training Center like ziplines and bungee jumping, plus lunch:

The zoo is a top attraction for families in Guadalajara , known as one of Mexico’s largest zoos with over than 2,000 animals from 360 species!

It boasts the biggest herpetarium in Latin America, featuring an extensive collection of lizards, turtles, crocodiles, snakes, and vipers.

Among its attractions are a panoramic train ride , an aquarium , a veterinary ranch, Adelie penguins, and many family-friendly shows.

My two favorite activities at the zoo are the thrilling 20-minute Safari tour  aboard a special truck, which offer an up-close experience with various animals, and the Sky Zoo , an incredible aerial adventure that provides stunning panoramic views of Monkeyland, gorillas, wolves, bison, lions, and more.

• 10am-6pm, monday closed
• Guadalajara Zoo Website

Acuario Michin offers children a fantastic opportunity to learn about marine life while also contributing to its conservation through breeding programs for species like axolotls and neotropical otters.

It has more than 300 species and more than 9000 specimens which can be admired throughout 5 pavilions :

• Wixárika: Freshwater species, reptiles, amphibians, including axolotls.
• Maya: Coral reef species, like clownfish.
• Mixtec: Semiaquatic species, crocodiles, neotropical otters; includes aviary, petting zoo (Achcalli Farm), and feeding experiences.
• Konkaak: Cold water Pacific species, including jellyfish.
• Olmeca: Gulf of Mexico species, various sharks, and diving experiences.

Additionally, a sixth section, Marine Challenges, offers interactive games and activities like laser tag, rock climbing, and an arcade.

Acuario Michin is undoubtedly one of the best activities for kids in Guadalajara!

• open from 11am to 8pm (last access 7pm)

Even if you’ve visited a wax museum and the Ripley’s museum elsewhere, they remain top family activities in Guadalajara.

They are especially popular on rainy days as they have the advantage of being located in the same place, the Plaza de la Liberacion , offering hours of entertainment!

The Museo de Cera (Wax Museum) features 12 rooms with over 130 Mexican and international figures , including athletes, singers, actors, politicians, and more.

At this typical Ripley’s Believe It or Not museum , you can discover amazing mysteries and phenomena , including torture devices, Egyptian legends, ancient rituals, and a variety of cultural traditions, plus optical illusions and artistic displays from different civilizations.

• Open everyday from 11am to 8pm
• Ticket prices vary depending on whether you choose one or both museums, the 4D movie, and other activities, starting at 95 pesos for kids and 110 pesos for adults.
• Get your tickets here

Parque Los Colomos , a beloved urban forest and recreational natural park, has been a favorite destination for families in Guadalajara since the 20th century.

The park features extensive walking trails and a charming 30-minute horse ride, partially alongside a small river, which adds to its scenic beauty.

Visitors can also explore the exquisite Japanese Garden and the historic Castle, which now houses the Casa de la Cultura de Guadalajara .

It’s noteworthy that the park is exceptionally well-maintained, including its clean and orderly toilet facilities.

This combination of natural splendor, cultural richness, and historical significance makes Parque Los Colomos an excellent place to visit with kids in Guadalajara . Moreover, it serves as a perfect cool and refreshing haven for everyone during the city’s hot days!

• free access from 6am to 7pm

Here is the map highlighting the must-see places in Guadalajara , as featured in my detailed article:

When choosing where to stay, consider your itinerary and what you want to see:

• Staying in the city center is convenient for visiting Guadalajara historical sites.
• For a more modern experience, Zapopan can be a good choice.
• If you’re interested in a vibrant area with a mix of historic charm and contemporary lifestyle, consider staying in Colonia Americana

Each area offers a different perspective of Guadalajara, so pick one that aligns best with your travel plans and interests!

Here are my personal recommendations for the best hotels in Guadalajara :

• Hostal Hospedarte Centro: A cozy and colorful hostel in the heart of Guadalajara, close to the Cathedral and Plaza de Armas. Dorm or private room with shared bathroom, from 34 $usd per night, breakfast included. Highlights: free walking tours of the city, friendly staff, lively common areas – this is my choice for a cheap and fun stay in Guadalajara!
• Hotel Dalí Plaza Ejecutivo: A modern and comfortable hotel 320 ft meters from the Teatro Degollado and the Plaza de la Liberación. Room with private bathroom and cable TV, from 44 $usd per night. Highlights: central location, rooftop terrace , free parking.
• Hotel de Mendoza: A historic and elegant hotel next to the Teatro Degollado and the Rotonda de los Jaliscienses Ilustres. Spacious room with balcony and panoramic view of the city, from $67 usd . Highlights: outdoor pool, gym, colonial charm, restaurant.
• Casa Habita :  A restored 1940s mansion in the Colonia Americana neighborhood, 3 km from the historic center. Very elegant and comfortable room with terrace and pool view, from 150 $usd per night, breakfast included. Highlights: the outdoor pool, the bar, the retro atmosphere.
• Boutique Hotel Villa Ganz : A renovated mansion in the Colonia Americana district, 3 km from the historic center. Cozy and elegant room with fireplace and garden view, from 200 $usd per night. Highlights: the personalized service, the gourmet restaurant, the beautiful decoration, it’s my favorite hotel in Guadalajara for a romantic stay !

To fully experience the charm of Guadalajara, I recommend spending at least 3 to 4 days . This will give you enough time to explore the city’s main attractions, enjoy the local cuisine, and maybe even take a day trip or two to the surrounding areas.

Day 1: Historic Center of Guadalajara

• Explore the historic center of Guadalajara and the markets (ex: San Juan Libertad)
• You can join a guided tour (click here!) to cover all significant landmarks and markets

Day 2: Tlaquepaque and Colonia Americana

• Morning: Visit Tlaquepaque , famous for its artisanal crafts and cultural atmosphere. – Book the Tlaquepaque tour here!
• Afternoon: Walk through Colonia Americana , known for its architecture and vibrant streets.

Day 3: Zapopan and Bosque Los Colomos

• Morning: explore the historic center of Zapopan 
• In the evening, visit Bosque Colomos , conveniently located nearby, for a relaxing end to the day

Day 4: Tequila

• Take a trip to Tequila to learn about and taste the iconic Mexican spirit.
• Book the tequila tour here

Day 5: Lake Chapala

• Explore Lake Chapala , experiencing both the towns of Chapala and Ajijic , known for their scenic beauty
• Consider taking a guided tour (click here!) for convenient transportation and insightful local knowledge.

How to Get Around in Guadalajara

The city has an accessible public transportation system that uses the same rechargeable card for 30 pesos (ticket price 9.50 pesos). This card gives you access to:

• Mi Macro (rapid bus) with 42 stations
• Mi Tren or Light Rail (electric train) with 56 stations
• The Trolleybus , which is an electric bus

You can top up the card at an Oxxo store, or on your Mi Movilidad app ( iPhone – Android )

There are about 360 bike stations throughout the city.

The service is available every day of the year, from 5:00 AM to 12:59 AM, for trips under 30 minutes.

• To use them, download the “Mi Bici” app ( iPhone – Android ): 1 day for 105 pesos, 3 days for 209 pesos, 7 days for 367 pesos

When in Guadalajara, you are in for a culinary treat that’s as rich in flavors as it is in history.

A must-try is the iconic Torta Ahogada , a spicy pork sandwich submerged in a tangy tomato sauce, embodying the bold tastes of the region.

Don’t miss out on tasting Birria , a savory stew traditionally made with goat or beef, seasoned with a blend of spices and served with corn tortillas.

Another local favorite is Carne en su Jugo : This dish features a stew of chopped beef, slow-cooked in its own juices, accompanied by pot beans and crispy bacon pieces, and is garnished with fresh chopped onions and cilantro.

For something sweet, indulge in Jericalla , a dessert similar to flan, with a burnt top and a deliciously creamy texture.

And of course, your gastronomic journey isn’t complete without sipping some locally produced Tequila or trying the artisanal beers that reflect Guadalajara’s burgeoning craft beer scene.

Coming from Canada, where we experience extreme weather, I find that Guadalajara has nice weather most of the time .

But it’s good to keep in mind that during the summer, from May to October , it can get really hot and rainy !

If your plan is to explore the city on foot and discover all its attractions, the best time to visit Guadalajara is between January and April .

During these months, the weather is cooler (but not cold at all), and there’s hardly any rain, plus it’s still sunny. This makes it perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing!

And if you like cultural events and music, Guadalajara has many big festivals during the year that are worth checking out:

• Guadalajara International Book Fair (FIL) (November/December): One of the largest book fairs globally, attracting publishers, authors, and book lovers from all over the world.
• International Film Festival in Guadalajara (FICG) (March): A major film festival showcasing a wide range of films, with a focus on Mexican and Ibero-American cinema.
• Guadalajara International Mariachi Festival (August/September): Celebrates Mariachi music with performances by top Mariachi bands, workshops, exhibitions, and a grand parade.
• Fiestas de Octubre (October): A month-long festival featuring music, dance, food, and art, celebrating Mexican traditions.
• GDLuz Festival (February): Transforms the city with light installations, projections, and performances, celebrating Guadalajara’s founding anniversary.
• Guadalajara Jazz Festival (Dates Vary): A gathering for jazz enthusiasts with performances by local and international artists.
• Festival Cultural de Mayo (May): An annual festival showcasing a mix of music, dance, theatre, and visual arts, often featuring a guest country.

How to Get to Guadalajara

Guadalajara is easily accessible by plane, bus, or car. Here’s a detailed look at how:

Traveling to Guadalajara by car can be a convenient option, especially if you’re coming from nearby cities or enjoy road trips. The city is well-connected by a network of highways, making it accessible from various parts of Mexico.

• If you’re driving from Mexico City, you’ll take the Mexico 15D highway, a journey of approximately 5 to 6 hours covering around 550 kilometers.
• From Puerto Vallarta, it’s about a 4 to 5-hour drive via Federal Highway 70 and 80, offering scenic views

Renting a car is for sure the best way to explore Guadalajara and make the most of your stay!

To rent a car, personally, I always use Rentalcars.com, for a few reasons:

• You can easily compare the rental cars prices between all the agencies: for sure the easiest way to find the best rate!
• Cancellation is often offered free of charge: no need to worry if you change your mind
• Rentalcars offers full insurance coverage at a lower price than the rental companies , so it’s an instant saving with no effort

Simply click on the green button to find your rental car at the best price:

• Driving on Mexico’s toll roads is generally safer (and faster) than using the free roads.
• To plan your trip and budget effectively, consider using the ‘ Traza tu Ruta ‘ tool, which helps calculate the toll fees for your journey.
• Keep an eye on the traffic , especially during peak hours, as Guadalajara’s bustling urban activity can lead to congestion.
• The Waze app is the best tool to check real-time road situations and traffic updates.
• Upon reaching Guadalajara, you’ll find ample parking spaces, both on-street and in secure parking lots . If you’re in the center of Guadalajara, I recommend using the underground parking lot located right across from Teatro Degollado.
• Please note that if you park on the street, you may have to pay. In this case, it’s best to download the Parkimovil application  ( Iphone – Android ) onto your smartphone.

The Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla Guadalajara International Airport is the third busiest airport in Mexico, after Mexico City and Cancun airports.

It acts as a major connection hub for flights to the United States , offering a wide range of destinations.

Additionally, the airport provides flights to several cities in Mexico (ex: Mexico City 1h30, Cancun 2h45, Tijuana 3h, Puerto Vallarta 1h) along with routes to South America, Central America, the Caribbean, and Europe.

For the best deals on flights to Guadalajara and within Mexico, make sure to use our flight comparison tool, developed in partnership with Skyscanner. It will help you find the cheapest prices!

Getting from the airport to your hotel

Once you arrive at the airport, here are the different ways you can reach your hotel in Guadalajara:

Inside the airport terminals, you can book and pay for a taxi at the designated taxi counters. Once outside, use your taxi ticket to board one.

Both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 have their own taxi ranks, and these airport-approved taxis are known for being very safe and reliable.

It should cost around 250-300 pesos to the center.

Alternatively, you can opt for an Uber, which is usually a bit more affordable , typically costing around 220-250 pesos to the center. However, keep in mind that with Uber’s dynamic pricing , the cost will vary depending on traffic conditions and the time you book your ride.

For safety , always ensure the car’s make, model, color, and license plate match the details provided in your Uber app.

The best spot to catch an Uber is near the crosswalk in the arrival zone of Terminal 2.

3. Book an Airpor t Transfer

Finding a taxi at the airport can be a challenge, especially at Guadalajara’s busy airport where sometimes many flights land at once, causing longer waits for a taxi.

You can make your trip easier by arranging a simple and comfortable ride from Guadalajara Airport to the city area.

Your driver will be waiting for you right outside the airport doors, holding a sign to help you easily locate them.

Book your transfer here:

4. Public Transportation

The bus stop at Guadalajara Airport is just a 4-minute walk away from Terminal 1 , located between the UPS Customer Center and FedEx (at your right when exiting the terminal).

Buses by Chapala Plus (Urviabus) run from here to Guadalajara’s city center.

The journey to Central Vieja bus station takes about 45 minutes and costs 10.00 MXN, payable to the driver. From Central Vieja, it’s a 20-minute walk to Guadalajara’s historic center.

Note that Guadalajara has two main bus stations: Central Vieja for local buses and Nueva Central de Autobuses for longer routes.

From Mexico City

Traveling from Mexico City to Guadalajara by bus takes approximately 7 to 10 hours with ETN Turistar, Futura, Primera Plus, Autobuses Elite, etc.

When purchasing your ticket online, double-check the departure ( Central de Autobuses del Norte , TAPO or Central Autobuses del Sur in Mexico City) and arrival stations ( Terminal de Buses Zapopan or Nueva Central Camionera in Guadalajara ), as they are significantly distanced from each other.

The good news is that there are many departures every day, both during the day and at night , offering flexibility for your travel schedule!

From Puerto Vallarta

Departing from Central de Autobuses de Puerto Vallarta , the bus ride to Guadalajara takes only about 4 to 4h30 (Pacifico, Futura, Vallarta Plus, ETN, Primera Plus) arriving at either Zapopan or Nueva Central Camionera de Guadalajara .

However, be mindful that some buses might take longer, up to 6 hours!

Visiting Guadalajara, with its rich culture and vibrant city life, can be an exciting experience. Here are some practical tips to help you make the most of your trip:

• Planning and Navigating Guadalajara : Given its size, it’s wise to plan your Guadalajara itinerary by area to maximize sightseeing and minimize travel. The city center is easily walkable , but for attractions further out, consider using a car, public transport, or taxis/Uber.
• Accommodation Choices : Guadalajara is quite spread out, so picking the right place to stay is key. The city center is great for historic sites, Zapopan offers a modern feel, and Colonia Americana is perfect for its trendy vibe and arts scene. Each area offers a unique experience!
• Public Transportation : Guadalajara has an efficient public transportation system, including buses and a metro system, which is a cost-effective way to get around. Familiarize yourself with the routes relevant to your itinerary.
• Tourist City Pass : To make the most of your Guadalajara trip, consider purchasing the city pass for access to various attractions. This can be a cost-effective way to explore and enjoy what the city has to offer.
• Stay Hydrated and Protected : The climate can be warm, so carry water with you, especially if you’re walking around a lot. Also, use sunscreen, as the sun can be quite strong, even on cooler days.
• Explore Local Cuisine : Guadalajara is known for its delicious cuisine. Don’t miss trying local dishes like birria, tortas ahogadas, and tequila from nearby regions.
• Be Mindful of Safety : Like in any major city, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings. Keep your valuables secure and stay in well-populated and well-lit areas, especially at night.
• Learn Basic Spanish Phrases : While you’ll find English speakers in tourist areas, knowing some basic Spanish can enhance your experience, especially in local markets and smaller establishments.
• Check for Events and Festivals : Guadalajara hosts various cultural events and festivals throughout the year. Check the local calendar to see if you can align your visit with any of these events.

Discover all my articles about Mexico : All my articles to help you plan your trip to Mexico are listed there.

• TOP 35 Things to Do and Must See Attractions in Mexico – All the best places to discover
• One Day in Guadalajara (Jalisco) : Must-See Places + Itinerary
• 2 days in Guadalajara : The Perfect Itinerary (First Time Visit)
• 3 Days in Guadalajara : An Epic Itinerary
• The 5 best coffee shops in Guadalajara (Colonia Americana)
• Ajijic (Lake Chapala) : Best Things to Do + Tips
• Tlaquepaque (Guadalajara): 16 things to do and must-see attractions
• Puerto Vallarta: Top 35 Things To Do and Must-See Attractions
• The 17 Best hotels in Puerto Vallarta : My Selection for Every Budget!
• Sayulita : the 15 Best things to discover
• Itinerary : 10 days in Mexico – Mexico City, Chiapas and Yucatan
• Itinerary : 2 weeks in Mexico   – Best itinerary to discover the Yucatan Peninsula and Chiapas!
• Itinerary : 3 weeks in Mexico – Mexico City, Puebla , Oaxaca , Chiapas, Campeche , Yucatán and Riviera Maya
• Itinerary : 1 month in Mexico – My Epic 30-31 Days Itinerary from Mexico City to Cancun
• Road trip in Mexico : The best itineraries for 10, 15, 21 days and a month
• Itinerary : 1 week in Yucatan – The Ultimate 6, 7 or 8 days Itinerary
• Itinerary : 10 days in Yucatan – Best Itinerary for 9, 10 or 11 Days in Yucatan
• Itinerary : 2 weeks in Yucatan – Epic Itinerary + All my Best Tips!
• Itinerary : 3 weeks in Yucatan – Best things to do in 20-21 days
• Itinerary : 1 month in Yucatan – Yucatan Peninsula in 29, 30 or 31 days from Cancun
• Road trip in Yucatan : The best itineraries for 7, 10, 15, 21 days and 1 month

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I have created this blog to give you all my best tips to plan your next trip to Mexico, regardless of your budget. I share detailed itineraries, advice about places to visit as well as recommendations for transportation, hotels and restaurants. I hope I will also help you to discover amazing off the beaten path destinations in Mexico!

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9 Top Things to Do in Guadalajara, Mexico

The city of  Guadalajara  presents an interesting combination of traditional and modern. Although it's sometimes referred to as the " Mexican Silicon Valley " because of its technological industries, it's also a bastion of Mexican culture. This is the second-largest city in Mexico, the capital of Jalisco state , and also the birthplace of both mariachi and tequila. A visit to Guadalajara presents the opportunity to see the colonial and modern architecture, listen to mariachi music, shop for handicrafts, sample regional cuisine, taste-test tequila, and so much more.

Visit Mercado Libertad

 iStock / Getty Images Plus

Guadalajara is home to one of the largest traditional markets in Mexico, the  Mercado Libertad. Designed by architect Alejandro Zohn, the market was inaugurated on December 30, 1958. You'll find a large selection of goods across three floors including handicrafts, clothes, shoes, flowers, produce, leather goods, traditional candies, electronics, household items, and food stalls. It's a colorful place to be and shop around and even if you don't plan to buy anything, you can always grab a quick taco.

See Traditional Mexican Folk Dancing.

iStock / Getty Images Plus

You've probably heard of the "Mexican Hat Dance," which in Spanish is known as the Jarabe Tapatio. The dance originated in Guadalajara, but it's just one of the many different types of folk dances you can see in the city. The Guadalajara University's folk dance troupe, the Ballet Folclorico performs regularly at the Teatro Degollado in the center of town and is a wonderful experience for anyone interested in Mexican culture. 

Tour the Historical Center

TripSavvy / Ana Alarcon

Upon arrival in town, one of the first things to do is to take a  walking tour of the Guadalajara city center . If you just want to get the lay of the land, this can be self-guided but if you'd like to learn more about the city's fascinating history, you can sign up for a free tour or hire a guide. Be sure to visit the Guadalajara Cathedral, the Plaza de Armas, and the Rotonda de Los Jaliscienses Ilustres which pays tribute to important people from the state. If you'd rather sit for a spell, the city has many squares and parks where you can take a breather.

Eat a Torta Ahogada

Many foods are traditional to this region of Mexico , but one of the most emblematic is the torta ahogada , a "drowned sandwich" that consists of a crusty bun stuffed with marinated pork meat and covered in a spicy salsa made with tomato and chile de arbol . A few other dishes to sample on your visit include birria (a hearty, spicy goat stew) and corn pozole soup.

Hang Out in Mariachi Plaza

TripSavvy / Ana Alarcon 

Mariachi is the quintessential music of Mexico and Guadalajara is the place where the genre was born, making it the best place in Mexico to enjoy the classic songs and appreciate the charro fashion. You'll no doubt run into many musicians as you explore the city, but you should still stop in the Plaza de Los Mariachis where you can enjoy a drink while watching the musicians perform. For the full experience, request the song "Guadalajara," but make sure you have pesos on you because the musicians do charge per song.

Visit Cabañas Cultural Center

 TripSavvy / Ana Alarcon

The Cabañas Cultural Institute is a UNESCO World Heritage Site . Designed by architect Manuel Tolsá and built at the beginning of the 19th century, the building was named for Bishop Juan Cruz Ruiz de Cabañas, who commissioned the project. This is one of the oldest and largest charitable complexes of New Spain. It was originally designed to function as an orphanage as well as a home for the aged, infirm, and destitute. In the early 20th century, the chapel was decorated with a series of murals.

The building was previously known as (and still often referred to as) the Hospicio Cabañas. In 1980, the building ceased to function as an orphanage and since that time has been used as a cultural center and museum. Besides its permanent collection, the Cabañas Institute also displays temporary exhibits.

See the Murals by Jose Clemente Orozco

In the 1930s, the government invited the artist  Jose Clemente Orozco to paint murals in the government palace and on the walls of the main chapel area of the Hospicio Cabañas, which he did between 1936 and 1939. Orozco painted two murals in the Guadalajara government palace. The one in the main staircase shows Miguel Hidalgo, a priest and the father of  Mexican Independence  who issued a decree abolishing slavery in Mexico, brandishing a fiery torch at shadowy figures representing oppression and slavery.

There are 57 frescoes painted by Orozco in the main chapel of the Cabañas Institute. The most impressive of the murals are in the chapel's cupola. Called El Hombre de Fuego ("Man of Fire"), the central figure is a man ascending in flames, surrounded by figures in shades of grey representing the natural elements. Along with Diego Rivera and David Alfaro Siqueiros, Orozco is considered one of the three greats of the Mexican Muralism movement which lasted from the 1920s through 1950. Orozco's Man of Fire is considered by many to be a masterpiece of 20th-century mural painting.

Go Shopping for Handicrafts

Handicrafts made in the area around Guadalajara include leather goods, hand-blown glass, and metalwork. There are two must-visit spots for shopaholics in Guadalajara. Tlaquepaque is a picturesque colonial neighborhood with cobblestone streets, upscale boutiques, and galleries offering fine arts and crafts and Tonala is a working village full of ceramics workshops. Both of these villages of Guadalajara produce several different types of pottery and ceramics and offer plenty to collectors, and anyone interested in acquiring Jalisco-made handicrafts.

Travel to Tequila

The nearby town of Santiago de Tequila is where the well-known spirit originated. A true pilgrimage for any tequila-lover, the city is just 60 miles west of Guadalajara Along the way, you'll see blue agave fields stretching on as far as the eye can see and the town, one of Mexico's designated " magical towns ," is quite charming as well. You can visit the distilleries to learn how tequila is made, but it's also nice to explore the historic town which was founded in 1530.

Britannica. "Guadalajara." Retrieved March 30, 2021

Khan Academy. "Mexican Muralism: Los Tres Grandes David Alfaro Siqueiros, Diego Rivera, and José Clemente Orozco." Retrieved March 30, 2021

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The best time to visit Guadalajara

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This guide can help you plan the best time for your visit to Guadalajara © iStockphoto / Getty Images

Guadalajara , Mexico’s second largest city and the capital of the state of Jalisco, is blessed with sunny skies and spring-like weather year-round. This means there is no bad time to visit, but if you particularly like dry weather and a busy cultural program, you'll want to head there in fall.

Listen out for mariachi, drink tequila, enjoy folk dancing and see Mexican cowboys on horses performing charrería … A lot of what’s considered quintessentially Mexican hails from Guadalajara. Use this month-by-month breakdown of climate, crowds, and cultural events and festivals to help you plan the best time for your trip.

December and Semana Santa through to Easter are the best times to go to escape the cold back home

Winter is the busiest time in Guadalajara when it comes to tourism, especially around Christmas, but the two-week school holiday period comprising Semana Santa and Easter can also be considered peak travel season. During this time, hotel prices will be higher than usual, but – depending on where you live – traveling to Guadalajara in the winter and spring might be worth your while to escape the cold. Winter in Guadalajara is mild, with average temperatures of 16℃ (61℉), highs of 24℃ (75℉) and lows of 10℃ (50℉). Spring can get hot, with the temperature reaching 33℃ (91℉) and no rain. You can expect to see some crowds during both of these peak seasons, as it’s when Mexicans tend to take their holidays.

October to December is the best time to go for great weather and festivals

Fall is indisputably Guadalajara’s best season. Not only is the weather pleasant with little to no rain, but it’s when the city’s calendar of events is at its finest. Maximum temperatures stay in the high 20℃s (high 80℉s), which allows visitors to comfortably explore the city on foot, and nighttime temperatures don't go below 13℃ (56℉). When it comes to culture, you can get your fill during this time: Fiestas de Octubre, Día de Muertos , and the International Book Fair are some of the main events you might want to check out.

June through September is the best time to go for deals (if you don’t mind the rain)

July is the rainiest month in Guadalajara, but it rains throughout the whole summer season. While the temperature itself isn’t uncomfortably hot, it rains every evening, which could get in the way of your sightseeing. On a positive note, you won’t find many crowds as those wishing to take vacations escape to nearby beaches (Puerto Vallarta is not far) and you might find good hotel deals. Rather than walk around aimlessly in the city, this is a good time to explore Guadalajara’s many museums and vibrant culinary scene.

January is the coolest time of year

The first week of January will have one of the lowest temperatures in the year, but it’s still manageable with a light sweater during the day and a jacket at night. For Mexicans, the first week of January is a continuation of the Christmas season, culminating on January 6 with the Día de los Reyes Magos. This is when most Mexican children traditionally get gifts, rather than Christmas. But adults get to enjoy themselves too by indulging in Rosca de Reyes, a ring-shaped cake made specially for the occasion.  Key event: Día de los Reyes Magos.

February means celebrations for Guadalajara's anniversary

In February, Guadalajara lights up with light shows, projection mappings, multimedia shows, live music and fireworks to celebrate the anniversary of the city. GDLUZ Festival lasts approximately three days around February 14 and takes place mainly around Guadalajara Cathedral, Liberation Square, Degollado Theater and El Hospicio Cabañas. Key event: GDLUZ Festival.

March is busy with tourists

Semana Santa occasionally falls in late March, though often it’s celebrated in April. Tourism can get quite high around this time and the temperature will be hot and humid –but without much rain.  Key event: Semana Santa (occasionally).

April means Easter celebrations

The heat starts to kick in for Semana Santa and Easter Week, but still not uncomfortably so. You might be able to spot one of the religious processions happening around the city. Key events: Semana Santa, Easter

May is festival time

May is the hottest month in Guadalajara with highs of 33℃ (91℉). Art lovers shouldn’t miss the Festival de Mayo, which combines different artforms, from theater and painting to opera and dance. If you’re into music festivals, Corona Capital Guadalajara delivers a good dose of international rock and indie bands.  Key events: Festival de Mayo, Corona Capital Guadalajara

June sees fewer tourists

June is the start of the slowest season when it comes to tourism but it has its share of events. The Feria de San Pedro Tlaquepaque, a town 30 minutes away from the center of Guadalajara, is in no shortage of comedy shows, livestock exhibitions, circus perfomances and carnival rides. Guadalajara’s International Film Festival took place in June 2022, but it’s been known to be held in different months, so make sure you research in advance if you’re planning to attend. Key events: Festival Internacional del Cine en Guadalajara (Guadalajara’s International Film Festival), Feria de San Pedro Tlaquepaque.

July is Guadalajara's rainiest month of the year

There’s a good chance you could get stuck in a summer storm in July, so make sure you come equipped with a raincoat, umbrella and appropriate footwear.

August is the month to celebrate Mexican tradition

The International Mariachi and Charrería Festival sees mariachi from all over the world partake in a celebration to preserve and promote this popular Mexican tradition. Charrería shows (called charreadas ) are a big part of the event. With some similarities with a rodeo, in a charreada  a male rider – called the charro – performs a series of equestrian activities to demonstrate his skills, be it precision lassoing his horse or the good rein and obedience of the animal. Meanwhile, a female rider, or escaramuza performs sidesaddle wearing a traditional dress brings a graceful touch to the event. Charrería is considered the Mexican national sport. The festival starts at the end of August and extends to the first week of September. Please note: while there is no intent to harm the animals in the performances, the rough nature of the activities carried out can result in the animals getting injured.  Key event: International Mariachi and Charrería Festival.

September is the "patriotic month"

If a festival extolling the virtues of mariachi music and charrería is not enough to satisfy your need to feel like you’ve experienced the “real Mexico”, you’ll be happy to hear that September is also referred to as “el mes patrio” (the patriotic month). Cinco de Mayo is not Mexican Independence Day and, though a bank holiday, is not widely celebrated around the country. But September 16 is. Drink tequila and margaritas to your heart's desire and join in with the “Viva México” chants that take place close to midnight. Key events: Independence Day, Jalisco Jazz Festival.

October hosts a month-long festival

This is the start of the best season to visit Guadalajara: the temperate weather will allow you to explore the city and its surrounding areas at leisure. Next on the list of really Mexican events is the Fiestas de Octubre, a month-long event filled with concerts, exhibitions, dancing and a traditional Palenque. The Palenque, a small round stage originally used for cockfighting, is a cherished venue where well-known artists sing in an intimate setting. Please note: while cockfighting is still a tradition at the Fiestas de Octubre preceding the performances, it does result in death and serious injury to all roosters involved and may be disturbing for viewers.  Key events: Fiestas de Octubre, La Romeria de Zapopan, Tecate Coordenada

November means Día de Muertos parades

The month opens with Día de Muertos, where visitors can attend a Catrinas parade (a skull lady dressed in fancy attire) and visit the Panteón de Mezquitán graveyard to admire the decorations on the graves. Literature lovers can attend Guadalajara’s International Book Fair – the biggest book fair in the Spanish-speaking world and second largest in the world, after Frankfurt – where famous international authors present their works in intimate settings. You need to speak Spanish to have the best experience. Key events: Día de Muertos, Feria Internacional del Libro (Guadalajara’s International Book Fair).

December is peak tourism time

The festive season brings the tourists. Mexicans don’t just celebrate the days between Christmas and New Year: celebrations start on December 12 with the Día de la Virgen de Guadalupe. From that day onwards, avoid doing anything where you expect bureaucracy to work. Should you happen to have a Mexican friend, get them to invite you to a Posada, a party that takes place at someone’s home to recreate Mary and Joseph’s pilgrimage before Jesus was born. Expect fruit punch with a sugarcane stick popping out of it and piñatas. And yes, during this time, higher accommodation prices.  Key events: Día de la Virgen de Guadalupe, Christmas, New Year's Eve.

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25 Best Things To Do In Guadalajara, Mexico (2023)

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. At no cost to you, I might earn a small commission if you make a purchase through the links in this article. 

Trying to create a list of the best things to do Guadalajara is not easy, as it’s the second-largest city in Mexico with rich history, wonderful regional cuisine and is home to some of the most famous Mexican brands like tequila and Mariachi.

Many travelers overlook Guadalajara in favor of Mexico City – and they really miss out! Aside from being a cultural mecca, Guadalajara is also more friendly to your wallet than the trendy capital.

Whether you want to have fun on a budget, indulge in delicious lonches and tortas ahogadas – Jalisco’s signature delicacies, or explore the history of Mexico culture hub, a stop in this city is a great idea! 

Best things to do in Guadalajara, Mexico

1. Take a walking tour of Guadalajara

The best way to get familiar with Guadalajara and its colorful neighborhoods are by taking a private walking tour of the city . The tour is offered by a local guide who can give you an insight into the city’s culture and history. 

The 3-hour walking tour covers 10 fundamental Guadalajara landmarks like the Guadalajara Cathedral, the city square, the main plazas; Chapultepec cultural corridor, and other major landmarks.

It’s a fully-private tour, which means that your guide will give you exclusive attention and provide a tour at your own pace. 

The tour begins in Colonia Americana : a cosmopolitan neighborhood in Guadalajara that was founded in the early 1900s. The area is known for its eclectic architecture and a collection of bars and restaurants. 

Best walking tours of Guadalajara

These tours are a great way to support local tour guides who work every day to show their city to visitors like you 🙂

2. Go to Tequila on a day trip 

Tequila is a designated pueblo magico that is known for the production of the namesake drink. It’s also one of the most popular day trips from Guadalajara. 

Tequila is one of the most famous Mexican exports and is the trademark. Only drinks made in five states Guanajuato , Jalisco , Michoacan , Nayarit , and Tamaulipas ,   and following a strict set of production rules could bear a legal name of tequila. 

How much is the drive from Guadalajara to Tequila?

Tequila is 41 miles away from Guadalajara, and it can take anywhere between 50 minutes to one hour to get there, depending on the traffic.

Tequila is one of the most famous pueblos magicos in Mexico . Pueblos magicos are towns that have been given a special status by the Mexican government because of their cultural significance.

Going on a day trip to Tequila from Guadalajara is a perfect way to learn about how tequila is made from the agave plants. 

Best Tequila tours from Guadalajara

During the tour, you visit fields where agave grows, and head to La Rojeña , the distillery for Jose Cuervo that opened in 1812. The tour includes a visit to a local distillery and a sampling of tequila. The tour is followed by lunch and free time when you can explore the town of Tequila. The tour also includes round-trip transportation and drop-off and pick-up at your hotel. 

3. Take Jose Cuervo Express to Tequila

One of the most fun experiences in Guadalajara, Jose Cuervo Express is a train that takes you straight to the town of Tequila from Guadalajara Train Station.

The train takes about 4 hours and allows you to see some of the most beautiful countryside in the state of Jalisco, as well as learn about tequila production and sample the famous drink along the way. 

How to visit Tequila on your own?

If you have a rental car , you can also visit Tequila on your own. This way, you explore the town at your own pace, visit local shops and distilleries and spend the night at one of the hotels in Tequila before returning to Guadalajara or continuing your adventures in the state of Jalisco. 

✅ Check my complete guide to renting a car in Guadalajara Airport

4. Visit artisan villages Tonalá and Tlaquepaque

When you want to escape the busy Centro Historico of Guadalajara, head to the artisan villages of Tonala and Tlaquepaque a quick drive from the heart of Guadalajara. 

These colorful neighborhoods boast colonial villages, authentic Mexican restaurants where you can try Jalisco cuisine, and visit artisan markets. The best thing is that you can visit both of these places with a private guided tour that can give you a complete overview of these pre-Hispanic towns. 

5. Wander around Guachimontones Archaeological Area 

The Guachimontones ruins are one of the most interesting archaeological areas in Mexico that are famous for their circular pyramids. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, The Guachimontones is home to the only round pyramids in Mesoamerica. 

Formed by the Teuchitlán culture that lived in the Tequila Valley between 300 BC and 900 AD., this archaeological area is one hour outside of Guadalajara and is a popular day trip among many travelers. 

The largest pyramid at Los Guachimontones is over 60 feet and has 52 steps, which corresponds to the number of weeks in a year. 

Best tours of Guachimontones from from Guadalajara

One of the best ways to visit this archaeological area is with a guided tour that will provide round-trip transportation and a local guide who can tell you everything about the ancient civilization that once lived here. 

6. Admire Guadalajara Cathedral 

Guadalajara Cathedral is a centerpiece of the city’s historic center, and visiting it is one of the best things to do in Guadalajara if you want to learn about local history. 

The cathedral has survived many disasters including seven earthquakes. Most of the cathedral dates back to the 16th and 17th centuries while the earthquake in 1818 destroyed its dome and towers which had been rebuilt in a Neo-gothic style and are different from the rest of the construction. 

Guadalajara Cathedral is part of the city’s Centro Historico, home to cultural landmarks, street markets, and museums. It’s a great place to stay in Guadalajara with many hotels and you can also find many good restaurants here. 

Address: Av Alcalde 10, Zona Centro, 44100 Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico

7. Rotunda of the Illustrious Jaliscienses

Located on the left side of the Guadalajara Cathedral, the Rotunda of the Illustrious Jaliscenses is a monument dedicated to the many prominent people hailing from the state of Jalisco. Here you can find statues of famous Mexican architects, artists, poets, and philosophers.

Address: Av. Miguel Hidalgo s/n, Zona Centro, 44100 Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico

8. Walk around Centro Historico Plaza 

The four plazas surrounding the Guadalajara Cathedral are a great stop to take in the atmosphere of the place and admire its unique designs. Most walking tours of Guadalajara include a visit to these plazas, but you can also visit them on their own. 

Plaza Guadalajara is a busy thoroughfare with plenty of greenery that is a perfect place to grab some street food and hunker down in a shade. Plaza de la Liberación offers the best views of the Guadalajara Cathedral, and Plaza Tapatia, is home to many street and food vendors. 

9. Templo Expiatorio and Plaza Expiatorio

Many travelers miss this hidden gem located between Centro Historico and Avenida Chapultepec. I came across this orange church on my way to one of the vegan restaurants in Guadalajara and was surprised at how pretty it was!

The entrance is free, and you can also grab some street food from one of the vendors on a plaza in front. 

10. Go on a food tour

Guadalajara is known for its regional delicacies, and you will miss out big time if you don’t try them on your trip. As a vegan, I can’t recommend any restaurants that serve meat or animal products, but the good news is that there are many plant-based options for famous Jalisco dishes like lonches and torts ahogadas.

If you want to sample regional delicacies, join a guided food tour organized by a local guide. The tour offers an overview of the Historic Center of Guadalajara from a gastronomic, cultural, and historical perspective. 

The adventure begins with a typical breakfast of the region, sweet treats, and drinks and ends with a tequila tasting in a local canteen where you can mingle with the locals. 

11. Try typical Guadalajara foods

When you visit Guadalajara restaurants, you will find many dishes that you haven’t seen in other parts of Mexico. Some of the most common foods in Guadalajara and in Jalisco are birria , torta ahogada and jericalla . 

• Torta ahogada (drowned sandwich in Spanish) is stuffed with meat before being drenched in a spicy tomato chili sauce. It’s served with a combination of vegetables like avocado and onions. Tortas ahogadas are sold on street corners and in restaurants.
• Birria – a traditional Jalisco meat stew, Birria is made with spices like oregano, cilantro, or ginger and is garnished with lime. You can try this signature dish in many birrierias in Guadalajara. 
• Lonche – a staple of Guadalajara street food, lonche is a sandwich made with a “birote” baguette, which is also used in tortas ahogadas. The birote bread is filled with many types of ingredients and heated on a grill similar to a panini. 
• Bionico – a popular dessert that’s said to have originated in Guadalajara in the late 90’s bionics are made with fruits, yogurt and come with a variety of toppings like granola, shredded coconuts and nuts.
• Garrafas – popular Guadalajara ice cream also known as “nieve” in Spanish. Churned by hand, this type of ice cream is made in a wooden barrel where salt is mixed with ice. 

12. Check out Mazamitla Pueblo Magico 

Jalisco is home to one of the largest numbers of pueblos magicos in Mexico. It’s surrounded by lush green hills and provides a nice refresh from the busy Guadalajara. Mazamitla is one of the most popular day trips from Guadalajara and can be visited as part of the guided trip. 

13. Listen to Mariachi music 

One thing you can’t miss while visiting Guadalajara is the Mariachi Bands. There’s no Mexican music that is more famous than Mariachi, and you can find it in restaurants around Guadalajara, and tourist hubs like Centro Historico , Tlaquepaque , or Zapopan .

Mariachi music is listed as the object of UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage and Jalisco is where it originated. The best place to listen to Marichi music is the Plaza de Los Mariachis, where you can ask the band to sign a song for you in exchange for a tip. 

14. Get cultured in Zapopan 

Zapopan is a small town that’s part of Guadalajara’s metropolitan area. Some of the top attractions of Zapopan are the Basilica of Zapopan, one of the oldest churches in the city built in 1690’s that boasts gorgeous ornate facades, as well as the Huichol Art Museum where you can learn about one of the most fascinating indigenous cultures of Mexico and the Museum of Virgin of Zapopan. 

15. Pop into the Cultural institute Cabanas

One of the best things to do in Guadalajara for culture buffs is visiting the Cultural Institute Cabanas. This popular museum was started in 1791 as an orphanage and later became a cultural center. The Cultural Institute Cabanas boasts several galleries and frescoes by Mexican artist Jose Clemente Orozco. One of his famous artworks is The Man of Fire (Hombre de Fuego).

Like most museums in Mexico, the Cultural Institute Cabanas is closed on Mondays. The entrance is free on Tuesday and is $2 on all other days. 

Address: C. Cabañas 8, Las Fresas, 44360 Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico

16. Visit Mercado Libertad (Mercado San Juan De Dios)

If you want to try street food and do some shopping, head to Mercado Libertad, a typical Mexican market in the heart of Guadalajara. Here you can find fresh fruits and vegetables, street food, souvenirs, clothing, shoes, and many other things.

The market has three floors and you can easily indulge in some local dishes made right on the spot. And the best thing is, it’s budget-friendly! Don’t forget to bring cash, because credit cards are rarely accepted in Mexican markets. 

Check out this private market tour that is popular with Guadalajara visitors. 

Address: San Juan de Dios, 44360 Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico

17. Check out Avenida Chapultepec 

Home to some of the best restaurants, bars, and nightclubs in Guadalajara, Avenida Chapultepec (or Chapu as it’s often called) is known for its nightlife. It’s a great place to go and have fun on a weekend, and there’s also a small market in the middle of the street where you can find many local arts and crafts. 

18. Visit Colonia Americana

Avenida Chapultepec is the heart of Colonia Americana is one of the most popular neighborhoods in Guadalajara known for its trendy bars and restaurants as well as live music.

In addition, Colonia Americana boasts gorgeous neoclassical buildings and cultural landmarks like the Templo Expiatorio del Santísimo Sacramento (Expiatory Temple of the Blessed Sacrament) and The MUSA (University of Guadalajara Art Museum).

19. Take a day trip to Lake Chapala 

The largest natural lake in Mexico is just a short drive from Guadalajara and taking a day trip here offers a nice reprieve from the busy street of Jalisco’s cultural hub. 

A popular stop along Lake Chapala is Ajijic, a town that was recently awarded a status of a pueblo magico. Ajijic is a small but colorful town with plenty of restaurants, local stores, and fantastic mountain views. 

Check out this popular guided tour of Lake Chapala from Guadalajara. 

20. Spot Guadalajara murals 

Exploring this city through its murals is one of the best things to do in Guadalajara! While you can spot many colorful murals on the streets of the city, you might not always know their meaning.

A guided half-day tour is a perfect way to discover the architecture and the cultural significance of Guadalajara. The tour will give you an overview of the most famous Mexican muralists, including Jose Clemente Orozco, and their most famous artworks. You will also visit historical landmarks like the Cabañas Orphanage, which is home to 57 of Orozco’s fresco murals, along with the Cathedral, the Degollado Theatre, and other places.

21. Visit Government Palace 

The beautiful building housing government officers is an unmissable stop on your Guadalajara itinerary. Visiting it is one of the best things to do in Guadalajara if you want to learn more about Mexican murals by the famous artist Jose Clemente Orozco. Here you will also find a figure of Miguel Hidalgo, an important figure in Mexican history, and one of the revolution leaders.

The Government Palace is free to the public on weekdays and is closed on weekends.

Address: Av Ramón Corona 31, Zona Centro, 44100 Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico

22. Try Mexican craft beer 

Besides being famous for its tequila, Guadalajara also has a good craft beer scene. As someone who is not a beer lover, I can’t speak to their tastes and flavors, but fellow travelers told me that Guadalajara has many good types of beer. 

While you can sample local brews in bars and restaurants, you can also join a guided tour with a more curated experience.

23. Hike La Barranca de Huentitan (Barranca de Oblatos)

One of the hidden gems of Guadalajara, La Barranca de Huentitlan is a big canyon with grand views. It is a site of many battles between native battles that populated Mexico in the pre-Hispanic times and the Spanish conquistadors. 

Besides being a historic site, it’s also good for hiking and getting out in nature. Although most trails here are paved, they are steep, so bring enough water and good hiking shoes. The place can easily be accessed from Guadalajara by a quick Uber drive. 

24. Go for a stroll in Bosque Colomos Park

Bosque Colomos is one of the best green spaces in Guadalajara located in Zapopan. Here you can take a walk and relax after a day of activities, especially if you decide to put Zapopan on your itinerary. Whether you want to relax, exercise, or have a picnic, you will enjoy this gorgeous and tranquil park. 

If you want to spend a bit more time at the park, bring good hiking shoes, as there are many walking trails in the area. It’s easy to spend a few hours here enjoying the scenery. 

25. Shop in Tonal Street Market

Shopping in Tonala Street Market (also called Tianguis Tonala) is one of the best cultural experiences in Guadalajara. This market takes place every two weeks, so be sure to leave some time for it on your trip.

Here you can buy everything from local produce to handcrafts and home goods. Like most Mexican Market, Tonala is also a great place to try traditional dishes like tacos, tamales, birrias and so much more!

Buying locally made goods and produce at Tonala Street Market is a great way to support locals who put so much love and effort into their trade.

Best hotels in Guadalajara, Mexico

• Hotel Demetria
• Casa Fayette
• FCH Hotel Expo

Best things to do in Guadalajara: FAQ

What is Guadalajara known for?

Guadalajara is known as the birthplace of some of the most famous staples of the Mexican culture like Mariachi and Tequila. It’s also the second largest city in Mexico by population that hosts many important annual events including Guadalajara International Film Festival.

Is Guadalajara worth visiting?

Guadalajara is definitely worth a visit. It’s one of the most culturally important cities in Mexico where you can learn more about the country’s history, admire impressive architecture and enjoy local gastronomy. The city’s historic center boasts many landmarks and points of interest and you can take a few day trips from Guadalajara to explore places like Tequila or Lake Chapala.

How to get around Guadalajara? 

Guadalajara is a big city, but most of the best things to do in Guadalajara are located around Centro Historico, so you can easily explore the city on foot. If you want to visit places that are further like La Barrance de Huentitlan, take an Uber. 

Is there Uber in Guadalajara?

Yes, there’s Uber in Guadalajara, and it’s the best and safest way to get around the city quickly and inexpensively. Uber is cheaper in Mexico than in the United States, and you can pay below $10 for a short ride.

Is Guadalajara a walkable city?

Guadalajara is perfectly walkable You can easily get around the historic center on foot and catch Uber if you want to visit areas like Zapopan or Tlaquepaque which are further away. 

What is the best month to visit Guadalajara?

The best time to visit Guadalajara is between from November through December when the rainy season is over and but the busy tourist season hasn’t started yet. Another option is to visit the city from January through March, when the weather is pleasantly warm.

Renting a car in Guadalajara 

If you want to see Guadalajara and take some day trips, rent a car. I recommend renting a car with DiscoverCars at Guadalajara airport. You will save money on public transportation and taxis and have a chance to explore the city and surrounding areas at your pace. 

Read my guide renting a car in Mexico to avoid common mistakes and save money

Getting around Guadalajara by bus 

If you are looking to get around Guadalajara on a budget, a bus is your best friend. Buses can take you to most parts of Guadalajara, and many of them have varying routes. If you speak Spanish, things will be a lot easier, as you can ask for directions and stops. It pays off to speak at least some Spanish if you want to use public transportation in Mexico. 

Private transfer from Guadalajara Airport to your hotel

If you don’t plan to rent a car in Guadalajara, book a private transfer from Guadalajara airport to your hotel . It’s a perfect option for those travelers who are not comfortable haggling on a price with taxi drivers or taking public transportation.

A private transfer will bring you to your hotel and save you time. 

Is Guadalajara safe?

Guadalajara used to have a bad reputation for kidnappings and drug-related criminal activity. But the city has cleaned up its image over the last decade. Today Guadalajara is safe for visitors, but that doesn’t mean you can forget about following safety precautions. 

If safety is a concern,  consider getting World Nomads insurance  that will protect you in case of lost or stolen luggage, accidents, hospital visits, and many other unforeseen events. Another option is  Safety Wing , which is perfect for long-term travelers who plan to explore Mexico for a while.

Stay in one of the tourist areas in Guadalajara, Mexico

It’s best to stay in busy areas frequented by other visitors and avoid unwanted attention.

Among the safest areas in Guadalajara are Centro Historico , Tlaquepaque, Zapopan, Financial District , and a few other areas where you can find many cultural and historical attractions, bars and restaurants. 

Try to limit your activities to daytime, and avoid secluded dark streets. Leave your expensive clothing and designer brands back home and keep a low profile. 

What areas of Guadalajara are not safe?

Oblatos is safe during the day but not at night. The same is true about much of the center of Guadalajara, which is not recommended for hanging out at night. Some neighborhoods in Guadalajara are not safe. El Cerro Del Cuatro , Tlapuepaque is not a place to be at any time, and outer parts of Tonala are pretty sketchy, so it’s better to avoid them. 

Is Guadalajara safe for solo female tourists? 

In general, Guadalajara is safe for solo female travelers. The city tends to be more progressive and has a higher percentage of educated people than rural areas of the state. Machismo culture which is an issue in other parts of the country is not as pronounced here.

However, as a female traveler, you should always err on the cautious side. Keep your friends and family posted about your plans, avoid drugs and alcohol, and be very careful about accepting drinks from strangers. Keep a low profile and blend in with the crowd. 

What is the best time to visit Guadalajara, Mexico?

October through December is the best time to visit Guadalajara thanks  to dry weather, and perfect temperatures in the lower 80s. January through March is a good time to visit Guadalajara if you want to save money on accommodations. July through October is a rainy season that sees the most precipitation. 

How many days is enough for Guadalajara?

I recommend between 3-4 days to see Guadalajara and some of the surrounding areas like Lake Chapala , Tequila , and Mazamitla . Plan about 5 days for your Guadalajara trip if you want to enjoy the city and its surroundings without rushing. 

What are the best areas to stay in Guadalajara, Mexico? 

Many tourists like to stay in Centro Historico, because of its convenience, however, this part of the city also has older buildings with old infrastructure, so if you are looking for more modern accommodations, you should stay elsewhere. 

Colonia Americana is a popular area with tourists where you can find many cool cafes and restaurants, and walk easily from place to place. Another popular spot is Colonia Providencia which is slightly more expensive but has a good variety of places to eat, as well as bars and shops. Chapalita is a quiet residential area of Guadalajara if you want to experience more of a local vibe and visit a street market that takes place every Sunday. 

What is the weather like in Guadalajara, Mexico?

Guadalajara has a dry climate with plenty of sunshine throughout the year. The warmest months are from April to June before the beginning of the rainy season, which starts in June. The dry season in Guadalajara is from November through May, and August is the wettest month with the most precipitation. 

Guadalajara sits at almost a mile-high elevation, and you will not see any humidity here.

Which is better to visit Guadalajara or Mexico City?

Guadalajara and Mexico City are two important cities in the country, each with its own unique flair. Guadalajara feels less crowded and chaotic than Mexico City, and you can easily explore some of the best things to do in Guadalajara on foot, especially in the historic center. Mexico City has a lot more traffic than Gudalajara and driving distance between points of interest can be really long.

Best things to do in Guadalajara: final thoughts

Guadalajara is one of the best destinations in Mexico for culture buffs. Although not quite as touristy as Mexico City, Guadalajara is a great place to visit if you want to experience the authentic Mexican culture, listen to Mariachi bands, and eat yummy torts ahogadas. There’s a long list of things to do in Guadalajara, and you will not run out of activities while spending time in this city. 

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The Ultimate Guadalajara Itinerary In 1-4 Days

Table of Contents

This post may contain affiliate links to things like tours, hotels, Amazon associates and products. These help me earn a small commission at no additional charge to you.

Planning a trip to Guadalajara? I would highly recommend it. I recently spent an awesome 4 days in Guadalajara hence I wanted to share with you my Guadalajara itinerary and tips for visiting.

GUADALAJARA QUICK LINKS Accommodation: Booking.com / Hostelworld Copy of Lonely Planet Mexico / Mexican Spanish Phrasebook Activities: GetYourGuide / Viator Getting there: Rentalcars.com / Busbud Getting around: Bus / Uber

Where is Guadalajara?

Guadalajara is located in the west of Mexico , approximately a si x -hour drive from Mexico City . I headed there a non-direct way, visiting San Miguel de Allende and Guanajuato en route but you can also make the journey directly. Drive, take a bus or carpool using BlaBlaCar . Mexican buses aren’t as cheap as those in other countries but at least they’re very comfortable, often with complimentary snacks and TV screens in front of your seat!

To book buses in Mexico, use Busbud .

By air: To book flights around Mexico, use Skyscanner . Direct flights from Mexico City to Guadalajara start from $50. You can fly direct from the US from several airports including Miami, New York City, Oakland, East Bay and Orlando.

Guadalajara intro

Guadalajara is without doubt a large city, although it’s no rival to Mexico City. It has 1.5 million residents compared to CDMX’s 9 million (in the metropolitan area alone). Like the capital, Guadalajara has a hectic city centre but also some leafy, more upmarket neighbourhoods. There are also some excellent day trip options which is why I would recommend spending at least 4 days in Guadalajara. Keep reading for what to do during 1 day in Guadalajara as well as how to spend 2 days in Guadalajara & 3 days in Guadalajara.

Read next: a complete guide to solo travel in Mexico

Where to stay in Guadalajara

Chapultepec neighbourhood is a great location for your 4 days in Guadalajara. With leafy, wide streets and cute coffee shops, it’s the perfect base to relax after a busy day of exploring. Hostel: Hostal Hospedarte in Chapultepec has a garden area, kitchen, bar and generous free breakfasts each morning. They also run bar crawls, lucha libre wrestling trips, street food tours and more. The rooms were nothing special but they were comfy enough. It’s a great place to meet other travellers. Note – Hostal Hospedarte have two branches, one in Chapultepec and one in the Zocalo. I would suggest the Chapultepec one as this neighbourhood is both nicer and safer. Other accommodation options: Budget hostel: Hostel Isabel ($32)

Boutique: Del Carmen Concept Hotel ($52)

Splash out: Quinta Real Guadalajara ($97) Apartment: Life Style Executive Suites ($59)

Below are the main areas I’d suggest exploring during your 1, 2, 3 or 4 day Guadalajara itinerary. I’ll discuss these in this blog.

Best experiences in Guadalajara

• Tequila and distillery tour with tastings
• Lake Chapala and Ajijic tour
• Legends of Tequila town night tour
• Guadalajara street art tour
• Canyoning & hiking at Comala Waterfalls

GUADALAJARA ITINERARY

I’d recommend 4 days in Guadalajara in order to take 2 day trips during your stay. These are to Tequila (yes it’s actually a place) and Lake Chapala . The latter is a refreshing break from the busy city and you can tie in a stop at charming Ajijic town. However, if you don’t have as long as I did, don’t worry. This Guadalajara itinerary accounts for 1, 2, 3 and 4 days in Guadalajara. If you have just one day, simply follow day one’s itinerary. Add the additional days depending how much time you have!

1 day in Guadalajara: Zocalo and Chapultepec

If you have just one day in Guadalajara, start the day in the Zocalo (city centre). Guadalajara centre reminds me of Mexico City because there are lots of grand colonial buildings but also some hectic local markets. Guadalajara Zocalo is a generally safe place to wander around with lots of wide, sunny squares and impressive churches. As a word of warning, I would suggest you catch Ubers at night rather than walking because the city centre can be known for pickpockets. The guy in the bunk above me at the hostel had his phone stolen whilst speaking on it during a trip to the Zocalo. So just be smart and exercise caution like you would e lsewhere, particularly at night. Don’t fancy walking? Take a bike tour of the historic centre with a local guide .

Mercado General Ramon Corona

One of the best places to eat in Guadalajara Zocalo is at this local market, Mercado General Ramon Corona . It’s not a huge market compared to the one I’ll mention next but it’s still worth checking out during 4 days in Guadalajara, especially to ease yourself in before hitting the big’un.

There are plenty of popular Mexican foods to try in Mercado General Ramon Corona such as tacos, tortas, chilaquiles and more. Don’t miss the fish tacos , especially since they’re just 15 pesos apiece. Crispy breaded fish topped with salad, coleslaw, salsa and a squirt of lime can only be improved by washing it down with a cold beer. Bliss!

Mercado Libertad San Juan de Dios

If you’re a fan of local markets, head to Guadalajara’s Mercado Libertad San Juan de Dios , a short walk from the Zocalo. This hectic local market is a total maze but offers an authentic Mexican market e xperience. Tightly-packed alleys overflow with clothes, bags, spices, sweets, counterfeit DVDs, technology… Literally everything you can think of.

You might be the only foreigner in Mercado Libertad San Juan de Dios. Don’t feel nervous, just keep an eye on your belongings and explore this vibrant corner of Guadalajara. Very few of the vendors will speak English so any Spanish you know will go a long way. Head upstairs in Mercado Libertad San Juan de Dios for one of the most authentic places to eat in Guadalajara . At this bustling food court, you can try every type of Mexican food and drink but I’d particularly recommend Guadalajara’s national dish, a torta ahogada or ‘drowned sandwich’. These meaty sandwiches in tomato-based sauce are messy but very tasty.

Another corner of Mercado Libertad San Juan de Dios I’d recommend is this cute coffee stand below. The speciality coffee equipment and numerous drinks from affogato to ChocoBoom (get me some of that!) would be at home in any hipster cafe so I was surprised to find this cafe in the otherwise local market. I know this cafe is in the downstairs section towards the left side but it’s hard to pinpoint the exact location. Good luck finding it. It’s worth it!

Afternoon – Chapultepec / Tlaquepaque

I headed back to Chapultepec where my hostel was located and explored the leafy neighbourhood. There are lots of street art murals in this part of town, as well as cute cafes and restaurants. I really liked Roart Cafe where I chatted to the owner for several hours and had some great coffee. If you’re staying in Chapultepec for the evening, head for tacos at Tomate Taqueria . This busy local joint has queues out the door but it’s worth it to get your hands on some of Guadalajara’s best, meatiest tacos. This place is open ’til 12.30am so feel free to show up for post-drink tacos.

2 days in Guadalajara itinerary: Tequila

Everyone’s heard of Tequila but not everyone knows where it comes from (although the clue’s in the name). Tequila is much like Champagne: the beverage has to be made in the town of the same name to qualify. I’d highly recommend a day trip to Tequila if you have 2 days in Guadalajara. As well as mariachi music, Tequila is one of the main things that puts Guadalajara on the map. The small town is an hour’s drive away in the state of Jalisco and there are a few ways to visit.

Ways to visit Tequila:

• Take the Tequila train from Guadalajara, sampling unlimited tequila as you journey through the scenic agave fields. This is your most expensive option at $100.
• A Tequila day tour travelling between Guadalajara and Tequila by shuttle bus as part of a small group. Everything is organised including a Tequila factory tour. Take this tour with GetYourGuide .
• Take the public bus from Antigua Central Camionera . Journeys leave hourly and cost just 260 pesos return. Even considering you’ll have to pay for your own Tequila factory tour when you arrive, this is still the cheapest option.

What to do in Tequila: The main activity is visiting one of the Tequila factories to tour the venue, learn about the production process and (most importantly) sample the famous beverage. I can confirm it tasted just as lethal as any time I’ve tried it in the past. It’s not my favourite drink but when in Tequila! We visited Jose Cuervo Distillery at Fábrica La Rojeña which is one of the most popular and longstanding venues in Tequila. For 150 pesos, you get a factory tour and tasters. Alternatively, you can upgrade to other packages which include tequila cocktails. The whole tour took around an hour which gave us plenty of time for wandering T equila. There isn’t a great amount more to do but it’s a pretty colonial town which is usually busy and vibey at weekends with local markets and voladores performing. If you haven’t seen these guys yet, expect to be amazed as they swing from the top of a 150-metre pole attached by harnesses.

3 days in Guadalajara: Chapala

With a third day in Guadalajara, you can take another day trip within Jalisco state, this time to Mexico’s largest lake. Chapala is the name of the lake as well as the popular tourist town on its banks. The cheapest option is taking a bus but the easiest option is an organised day tour to both Chapala and Ajijic .

Chapala town can get very busy, especially if you visit on a weekend. I would suggest visiting on a weekday if you can. There’s another nearby town called Ajijic (pronounced ah-he-hic) which is also worth adding to your Guadalajara itinerary. I’d suggest starting your day at Ajijic as it’s furthest away, then stopping at Chapala town on the way home. How to get to Ajijic from Guadalajara by bus: Along with two girls from the hostel, we caught an Uber to Antigua Central Camionera , the same place we’d caught a bus to Tequila the day before. We paid around 100 pesos for a ticket to Ajijic and the ride took around 1.5 hours.

Things to do in Ajijic

Ajijic is a funny place because it’s widely known as an American and Canadian retirement town. Many of the residents clearly aren’t Mexican and eat at Western-style restaurants with menus in English. While this doesn’t make Ajijic sound particularly authentic or interesting, I still liked this pretty, colourful town. A taxi driver also told us that the foreigners are friendly and respectful, bringing with them job opportunities for locals. It’s also worth a visit for the lakeside views!

Things to do in Ajijic:

• Take a hike to El Tepalo Waterfall, although maybe not in the dry season – it was all dried up when we arrived
• Walk the lakeside promenade and take in scenic views
• Explore the quiet lake banks away from the promenade to ditch the crowds (not that there are many in Ajijic compared to Chapala town) and spot wildlife
• Eat at Chilli Verde Restaurant . The chile relleno (giant breaded chilli stuffed with cheese and bathed in a tomato sauce) was very tasty, as were the juices
• Spot street art and visit art galleries.

Getting to Chapala: Call an Uber or hail a local taxi for the short ride between Ajijic and Chapala town. I can’t remember the exact price we paid but I believe it was around 100 pesos split between three of us.

Things to do in Chapala

We arrived in Chapala and felt instantly overwhelmed by the amount of people, as well as baffled by a man walking a honey badger on a lead.

Chapala was overwhelming and I wasn’t as enamoured as I was by Ajijic. Still, it’s an iconic place to include in your Guadalajara itinerary nonetheless.

Things to do in Chapala town:

• Take a boat trip on Lake Chapala. Vendors will approach you selling tickets as soon as you arrive
• Eat seafood beside the lake
• Shop for snacks, souvenirs and shoes at Tianguis Market on Wednesdays
• Drive 10 minutes to San Juan Cosalá town and bathe in natural hot springs
• Stroll the Malecon (lakefront area) and snap photos with the colourful Chapala sign.

We set off from our hostel at 9am and arrived back at 6.30pm, having toured both Ajijic and Chapala before catching the 1-hour bus back to Guadalajara. It’s a busy but easy day trip. If you would rather take a tour, you can book a Chapala and Ajijic trip with Viator .

4 days in Guadalajara: Tlaquepaque

To finish this 4 day Guadalajara itinerary, make sure to visit Tlaquepaque. This charming suburb of Guadalajara was once its own town but has since been absorbed into the urban sprawl. Tlaquepaque is a fun place to visit… As is trying to pronounce it! Tlaquepaque is known for its traditional pottery and ceramics. There’s not a whole load to do but you can easily kill a few hours browsing craft shops and sipping coffee.

Things to do in Tlaquepaque:

• Head to El Parían bandstand to watch mariachi players perform. Mariachi, now known around the world, started life here so catching some is a must for your Guadalajara itinerary. You can get a drink at one of the many cafes and watch as performers sing and play violin and guitar while wearing traditional dress. Tlaquepaque may have changed over the decades but this is one thing that hasn’t!
• Shop for pottery. You’ll get great deals on colourful Mexican crafts in Tlaquepaque. You can also attend workshops to see how it’s made. Check out Cantú craft shop.
• Visit Pantaleón Panduro Museum to see modern ceramic style arts including mini models of Guadalajara’s famous buildings.
• Stroll Sergio Bustamante Gallery and admire exhibits including statues with a modern art focus. I liked the leafy garden at the back of this gallery.
• If you spy street vendors selling this local drink called tuba, give it a try. It’s sweet and fruity with peanuts and candies floating inside.

Afternoon activity for street art fans

If you’re a street art fan, there’s one final thing to add to your Guadalajara itinerary. This impressive street art location isn’t in the centre of Guadalajara, in fact it’s quite far out. But I can vouch for it as a cool, colourful activity if you have the time. To reach this street art mural by Boa Mistura, set your Google Maps to Mural Urbano ‘Nierika’ . From central Guadalajara, you can catch a direct bus with a short walk at the end. From Chapultepec or Tlaquepaque, you’ll need to change buses in the centre. Alternatively, take an Uber there. Tip – for navigating Guadalajara by bus, use the Moovit app.

This cool street art mural is spread out over several apartment buildings, even extending to the baseball court. I don’t think this location gets a lot of tourist traffic judging by the curious but friendly welcome from the locals. I was happy to find it and learn about a street artist I didn’t know about previously. Boa Mistura is from Madrid but now has street art all over the world. This mural is dedicated to Wixáritari indigenous people living in Mexico. Nierika  is a word in their language referring to energy that comes from the wisdom of their ancestors and guides the next generation in building their future. We could all use some of this, I think! If you can get a panoramic view of all the buildings at once (which we got by climbing a stairwell opposite) you’ll see the words FUI, SOY, SERÉ (I am, I was, I will be) written across three buildings. I loved the scale of this art and the different message conveyed by seeing it from another angle.

Guadalajara packing list

Wondering what to pack for Guadalajara? I’d suggest:

• Clothes: Cooler clothes for day times: shorts, dresses and skirts etc
• Jeans and a sweater for the evenings
• ‘Nicer’ clothes for restaurants and bars
• Comfy sneakers – you’ll do a lot of walking
• Hat, sunglasses and sunscreen
• Security: A handy bum bag with secure zip
• Combination padlock (ideal for hostel lockers)
• Research: The latest copy of Lonely Planet Mexico
• A Lonely Planet Mexican Spanish Phrasebook & Dictionary
• Technology: a GoPro if you’re making videos – I use the HERO8 Black
• Solo photography pick: Manfrotto tripod and Joby Gorillapod
• A power bank to keep your devices alive
• Sustainability: stainless steel reusable water bottle with straw lid to reduce the use of plastic bottles
• Alternatively, a filtering water bottle that allows you to safely drink tap water
• Reusable coffee cup (collapsable) for hot takeaway drinks
• Metal straw kit with straw cleaner and cloth bag .

Thanks for reading my Guadalajara itinerary!

Check out my other Mexico blogs:

• Complete Mexico bucket list
• Ultimate Mexico City itinerary
• Solo female travel in Mexico
• Things to do in Puebla
• 23 Mexico City travel tips
• Things to do in Coyoacan Mexico City
• Solo female travel to Mexico City
• Visiting Hierve el Agua
• Guide to visiting Queretaro wine region
• Visiting Xochimilco Mexico City
• Oaxaca Day of the Dead guide
• Best food in Tepoztlan Mexico

VISITING MEXICO? These are my trusted resources: Getting around by air – the quickest (and often cheapest) way to travel between Mexican cities is by flight. I use Skyscanner to find the best-value flights, using the ‘search by month’ tool to find the cheapest dates. You can also use the ‘to anywhere’ feature if you’re flexible on where you’re going. Getting around by bus (environmental option) – buses in Mexico are comfy with free snacks and an in-journey entertainment system. I use Busbud to find the best prices. Driving in Mexico – use Rentalcars.com to compare car rentals in Mexico (and all around the world). For hotels and apartments, I use Booking.com . They have a wide range of accommodation for all budgets, plus the loyalty programme gives you discounts and upgrades. For hostels, I use Hostelworld.com . Hostels in Mexico are great for meeting other travellers. To save money on accommodation, I use Trusted Housesitters , a website that connects homeowners going away and travellers who can sit their homes & pets. I use GetYourGuide for tours & activities when I don’t want to travel solo. I also check Viator as they often have fun & unique options. EatWith – your one-stop for Mexico food tours, cooking classes and hosted meals with local chefs and foodies. Need to top up your Spanish? Pack a Lonely Planet Mexican Spanish Phrasebook & Dictionary . Need travel insurance ? I use True Traveller (for UK & Europe residents) since it’s affordable but covers everything you’d need including various activities, valuables and pre-existing conditions. Unlike some companies, they insure you if you’re already travelling / don’t yet have your flight home booked. Get a quote . For travel insurance for other nationalities, I recommend Hey Mundo and for long-term digital nomad travellers, I suggest Safety Wing . Check out my resources page for more travel discounts and tips from 10+ years of travel!

See you next time for more adventures,

Ps. Liked this Guadalajara itinerary? Pin it for later!

Rose is a solo traveller from the UK who has been on the road since 2015. She wants to show other women that solo travel isn't scary and doesn't have to be expensive! Rose has lived in Mexico, Canada and all over Asia, seeking out food, bubble tea and street art wherever she goes!

2 thoughts on “ The Ultimate Guadalajara Itinerary In 1-4 Days ”

What a cool city and I love that you can experience a tequila tour! Sounds like my kinda place ahaha

I did not know there is so much to do in Guadalajara! Thanks for sharing!

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Travel Guide: How to Spend a Week in Guadalajara, Mexico

Back in April, I had the absolute pleasure of spending a week in Guadalajara with my partner, Michael.

It was the first time I’d had the chance to travel for my birthday since 2019 , and so it only felt right to choose a destination that has long been on my list of places to visit. You already know I love Mexico City so much, and as a result, I had high hopes for the country’s second city.

This trip marked our second visit to the state of Jalisco , a region known for its incredible food and drink, and I knew I wanted to dedicate a large portion of this trip to trying local specialties. But of course, we needed to find things to do to fill our time between meals (sadly my stomach is not a bottomless pit). I spent a significant amount of time reading other travel blogs, searching the local subreddit , and browsing hashtags on Instagram to create an itinerary full of historical sights, cool shops, and naturally, the best bars and restaurants.

With a week to explore, we had the luxury of doing so at a relaxed pace (this generous schedule even gave us enough time to take a full day trip ), but even if you only have three or four days to spare I think you’ll find that a trip to Guadalajara is well worth your while.

To visit Guadalajara is to have a full sensory experience: the colors are more vibrant, the smells more pungent, the flavors more intense, the heat stronger, and the sounds more dynamic. It has tourist sights, sure, but overall the city feels very off the beaten path for outsiders. But no matter where we went, we were treated warmly and, occasionally, with curiosity. I can’t wait to show you around:

GUADALAJARA SIGHTS + ATTRACTIONS

Check out the barranca de huentitán.

The canyon of the Rio Grande de Santiago is meant to be a great place for hiking – if you can make it early in the day before the heat sets in. Not wanting to risk hiking back up the canyon in 95°F weather, we opted for an easier way to get a great view: visiting the Parque Mirador Independencia . The park offers an amphitheater with a spectacular view of the canyon and an easy walking trail at around the same elevation; although there are some stairs (you can read a little more about the park in this blurb from Atlas Obscura ). The landscape changes throughout the seasons; on our dry season visit it was quite dry and brown, but we’ve seen photos of the lush green growth during wetter times. No matter when your visit falls, be sure to visit the fruit vendor near the lookout points – it’s hard to beat a panorama with an accompanying fresh snack!

Visit Guadalajara’s Historic Cathedrals

Both the Catedral de Guadalajara and Templo Expiatorio del Santísimo Sacramento are stunning from the outside and inside. If the doors are open, stop in to see the soaring ceilings and stained glass windows, and perhaps explore a little if a mass is not currently in progress (and if it is, why not join in and listen?). Perhaps my favorite part of our visit to Templo Expiatorio was the little apostles that appeared on the bell tower to mark the hour, and the incredible market going on outside.

Stroll Through Some of Guadalajara’s Parks

World-class parks dot the city of Guadalajara, providing its residents with plenty of opportunities for recreation and leisure. During this trip, we had the opportunity to visit several for strolling and prime people-watching. Parque Morelos is the only park within the historic center and is well worth veering off the path to check out. The concrete zoo brought a smile to my face; in fact, the elephant, giraffe, llama, and their friends have been delighting children for over fifty years (there was even a celebration in honor of the 50th anniversary ). Parque Metropolitano de Guadalajara is actually located in neighboring Zapopan, and though it’s just a portion of the size, it brings to mind NYC’s Central Park and Mexico City’s Bosque de Chapultepec. It features paths for running and cycling, gathering spots with grills and piñateros, playgrounds, snack vendors, and a number of landscapes. It’s a wonderful place to relax, and no wonder so many Tapatíos choose to make this park their hangout spot for the afternoon. Heading further north, you’ll find Bosque Los Colomos , another large park popular with locals and visitors alike. Unique to this park are the Japanese Gardens, created to symbolize the friendship between Guadalajara and Kyoto. Before you enter, make sure you’re not breaking any of the park rules …

Discover Guadalajara’s Art Scene

No matter your preferred style of art, Guadalajara has something for you. During this trip, I had the chance to visit MUSA (free), the Hospicio Cabañas (free on Tuesdays), and the Palacio de Gobierno (free). All three are probably best known for their grand murals by Mexico’s most famous muralist, José Clemente Orozco. MUSA is the art museum of the University of Guadalajara, and you can expect to see works by many famous Mexican artists in their collection , as well as rotating exhibitions. Hospicio Cabañas is a former orphanage-turned-museum and houses 57 murals by Orozco –  including El Hombre del Fuego , considered by many to be his masterpiece. Linger over these incredible frescos, but don’t skip the rest of the exhibits. Throughout the compound, you’ll find a diverse collection of art in varying media. The Palacio de Gobierno is another must-visit for Orozco fans, as it contains two grand murals. Admission is free, but you’ll need to sign in before entering (and know that holidays may impact the opening times).

Consider a Day Trip to Tequila

If you’re lucky enough to have at least five days in Guadalajara, consider adding on a day trip to Tequila (unless you’re passionate about the subject, then I’d recommend it even during shorter stays). We booked our day trip through Airbnb Experiences and had the chance to visit a distillery, the famous Cantaritos el Güero , and the town of Tequila. You can read all about our day trip here .

…or a Half Day in Tlaquepaque

Thanks to urban sprawl, you’ll likely hardly notice the fact that you’re leaving Guadalajara to visit Tlaquepaque. This artistic pueblo mágico is just 15-20 minutes away from the city core via Uber (unless traffic is heavy, that is), but the city center has a small-town feel. It’s a great place to spend a morning wandering, as we did on Easter Sunday. You can read more about our experience in Tlaquepaque in this post .

WHERE TO SHOP IN GUADALAJARA

Mexicanartes.

Shopping wasn’t high on my itinerary for this trip, but I did pick out a few spots ahead of time that I wanted to visit. Of those shops, Mexicanartes was the one I was interested in visiting the most. The shop was founded by a pair of local sisters who were inspired by all of the art and beauty in Oaxaca and decided to curate a shop of handmade garments. On their blog they take readers behind the scenes, allowing us to get to know who makes their clothing (something that’s so vital!). If I could have purchased everything in the store, I would have. Instead, I wound up purchasing this beautiful palm hat that served me so well in the intense Jalisco sun and will continue to remind me of our trip for years to come.

La Nube is a cute shop in Americana with a small selection of locally made crafts as well as some boutique clothing. Although I didn’t wind up purchasing anything, I came very close to buying an artsy-painted tote bag. Worth a quick pop-in if you’re in the neighborhood!

NIMIA is also located in Americana and is another store where you’ll likely have a hard time resisting buying locally-made items to bring back home with you. They carry pieces from local artists, ceramicists, and leatherworkers, as well as a large selection of stationery items. Wisely, the store is laid out perfectly to entice shoppers to pick things up and hold them.

Oxen Concept Store

I love combing through a good concept store, but often the styles are just a bit too far outside of the kinds of clothes and accessories that mesh with my cohesive wardrobe. Oxen Concept Store carries a really cool selection of streetwear but instead, we went with a new piece of local art for our home.

GUADALAJARA FOOD + DRINK

Because food and drink were the main reasons I chose to visit Guadalajara, they earned their very own blog post. The city is home to a number of now well-known dishes like birria, and I suspect soon-to-be-well-known dishes like tortas ahogadas. I think it’s nearly impossible to eat a bad meal in Guadalajara, but if you’re looking for recommendations, head to my Guadalajara Food Guide .

WHERE TO STAY IN GUADALAJARA

Colonia americana.

Surprisingly many of the travel guides I read before I booked my stay recommended staying in the city center. I suppose if you were only planning to stay 1-2 nights, that might be the most time-saving approach. But in terms of getting a better sense of the city’s culture, and having a better selection of nightlife, I highly recommend staying in or around Colonia Americana. The neighborhood is chock full of bars and restaurants – even if we were for some reason restricted to eating only in Americana, we would have been completely content.

Although Casa Habita is widely considered the place to stay in Guadalajara, we were sitting on several Airbnb gift cards and it made more fiscal sense to book a place on the home-sharing platform. Even after paying service and cleaning fees, our choice still came in under budget – although we had to give up A/C, which did feel like somewhat of a sacrifice considering the temps reached into the mid-90s some days. Yet I wouldn’t hesitate to stay there again; the apartment stayed pretty comfortable thanks to the shaded patio, it was in a fantastic location (though it was near the neighborhood’s many bars, it remained quiet at night), and it had everything we needed.

WITH MORE TIME…

If I’m being honest (well, I always share my honest opinion here, but still), with more time in Guadalajara I would likely focus on enjoying more food and drink in this culinary wonderland. But between meals, there are a few more places I’d like to visit: Ex Convento del Carmen , San Juan de Dios Mercado (sadly the market experienced a massive fire weeks before our visit; hopefully the rebuilding occurs quickly so displaced businesses can resume operation), Juan José Arreola Public Library , Lake Chapala and Ajijic (supposed to be a great day trip!), and shopping for ceramics from places like Cerámica Suro and Al Centro Cerámica .

GUADALAJARA TRAVEL TIPS

When to Visit Guadalajara

Fall and winter are the best times to visit Guadalajara, when it comes to weather. Not only are the temperatures cool and comfortable, but these months also fall in the dry season (so you can leave your umbrella behind!). In theory, mid-spring should have also been a decent time to visit, but a heat wave pushed the temperature as high as 95°F. And although the forecast showed low temperatures in the high 50s, the reality is that it was only ever that chilly during the wee hours of the morning (i.e., when we were sleeping). By 9 a.m. most days, I was already starting to sweat. While I’d be grateful to return to Guadalajara at any time, I would choose to travel between October and March.

Getting Around Guadalajara

Transportation.

Guadalajara has a metro system with three lines but is much more tailored to locals than tourists. If the routes are convenient for you, they can be a great value (a one-way will cost you around USD 0.50). We were prepared to use it for our morning in Tlaquepaque if Uber wasn’t running, but never needed to. Instead, we relied on Uber the entire time, as we’ve done with every previous visit to Mexico . Throughout the trip, wait times varied, from a minute or two to almost twenty minutes (this was likely due to our visit coinciding with Semana Santa ). Uber essentially works the same in Mexico as it does in the U.S.: enter your destination, confirm your current location, and it will quote you a price and match you with a driver. Before entering the car, verify the license plate on the vehicle matches the one on the account, and do the same for the driver’s photo. All of the drivers we rode with chose to roll down the windows instead of turning on the air conditioning, and I found it helpful to have a hair tie handy to help with the wind. Tipping is available in the app; unless there is a major, major issue, I always tip the highest amount.

We encountered a few English-speaking staff at restaurants, but by and large, we needed to rely on speaking Spanish to get around (frankly, people seemed surprised that we were visiting from the U.S.). You’ll want to have at least a basic grasp of the language if you’re planning on visiting Guadalajara – especially if you plan on leaving the city center and visiting any mom-and-pop restaurants and food stands. A translating app can be a huge help, but I definitely recommend learning as much as you can before you leave. At the very, very least, you should be comfortable with greeting phrases , as these are essential for politesse when entering shops, restaurants, and the like.

Mobile Service

Our Verizon and T-Mobile plans allow us to have free talk, text, and data in Mexico, but depending on your provider and plan, it may not be included. Check before you leave to see if there is an additional charge, and if so, you might consider purchasing a local SIM card and reloadable plan. During our time in Mexico, the main cell phone service we received was from TELCEL and Movistar – those might be a good place to start when researching!

It’s always helpful to have a bit of cash before you land, but thankfully nowadays you can get from the airport to a bank without needing any pesos in hand. The best exchange rates are always going to be at an ATM – check to see if your bank partners with any banks in the city to avoid costly fees. The ATM (and some credit card machines at shops) may ask if you want to convert the transaction to your home country’s currency; this typically gives you an unfavorable exchange rate. It’s generally best to complete these transactions in MXN. If ATMs give you the option to withdraw smaller bills, take them up on it. If not, we had success in breaking larger bills at several of the OXXO convenience store locations. You’ll want to carry smaller bills and coins for places that are cash-only and to tip as needed.

Tipping Culture

Tipping culture is strong in Mexico, and you’ll always want to have some extra pesos on hand. Uber and restaurants have made it a bit easier on the credit card-reliant traveler by allowing digital tipping. To tip at a restaurant, you’ll need to let your server know how much you want to tip before they swipe your card. Fifteen percent is the norm, but we typically tip twenty percent. Some card machines will give the server the option to add the tip as a percentage, but not always – be prepared to do some quick math (if not, many of them keep a mini calculator in their apron)! Other people that you should expect to tip include bartenders, grocery store baggers, your hotel concierge or apartment’s door person, bathroom attendants, and even your COVID test administrator (more on that later).

Guadalajara offers travelers the option to pinch their pesos or to splurge at every opportunity – my preference when traveling is mostly the former, with some of the latter sprinkled in here and there. Our private Airbnb totaled $320 for all six nights; we could have saved more in a shared place or spent more on a lavish, luxury stay if desired. Our meals for two ranged from around USD 4 to a max of USD 58 (in total), with most of them skewing toward the lower number. Grocery shopping and preparing food in our rental could have dropped that number even lower. Our booze costs ranged from around USD 1 (for non-craft beers) to USD 9 (for swankier cocktails). Over seven days, we spent around USD 92 on Uber, with fares ranging from USD 1.75 to 12.32, based on distance and surge pricing. Your shopping budget will be totally up to you of course, but for reference, our main purchases were my palm hat (USD 40), an art piece (USD 50), and a little stuffed alebrije toy for Meow (USD 4).

Other Things to Know

As usual, I heard warnings from friends and family about safety before we left, but thankfully we never encountered any issues during our time in Guadalajara. The only time I personally felt a little uneasy was walking home on our last night as we were just about the only ones walking down Av. Vallarta and it was a bit foggy out (but honestly, anywhere that’s deserted feels a bit creepy at night). That being said, there are plenty of crimes of opportunity throughout the city. If you were to encounter an issue, it would likely be pickpocketing, mugging, or scams (in particular, patrons of clubs in Colonia Americana seem to be the most common victims of theft in the wee hours of the morning). Use your travel smarts: keep an eye on your belongings, don’t get wasted, and stick together with your group when heading home at the end of the night.

It is not recommended to drink the tap water in Guadalajara, but many hotels and rentals have filtration systems in place. Ours had a demi-john, so we were able to easily brush our teeth and refill our smaller water bottles before heading out for the day. When dining out, choose your destinations wisely: the stuff ice is made of and produce is washed with is, of course, water!

I hope we’re all friends here and can talk a little business . In Guadalajara and across Mexico, it’s customary to toss any used toilet paper in the trash bin rather than in the toilet (unless a sign states otherwise). Many restrooms place the toilet paper dispenser near the entrance rather than in the stalls; if you see one on your way in, go ahead and grab your paper. I’ve learned this lesson the hard way, and now keep some extra tissue in my purse in case I forget. You may need to have some pesos on hand to pay for the restroom before entering (you’ll likely receive a wad of TP in exchange for your coins), or if there’s an attendant, be sure to leave a tip to thank them for keeping the space clean.

COVID Testing

Hopefully, this is a moot point by the time you read this post, but at the time of our trip, we were required to submit a negative COVID test result within one day of our flight home (at the time of publication, the U.S. no longer requires this). We made an appointment online at our neighborhood Farmacias del Ahorro , although we saw people manage to obtain a test by simply walking in and purchasing one. The cost for our two tests was approximately $37, plus a tip for the test administrator. We received our results in less than fifteen minutes and uploaded them to Delta shortly afterward.

FINAL THOUGHTS ON VISITING GUADALAJARA

Every time I leave Mexico, I feel like I leave a piece of me behind. As a travel destination, Mexico is vastly underrated – and when people do travel to the country, they tend to land at the all-inclusive resorts on the coasts. That’s great if that’s your thing, but I hope you’ll consider diving deeper into this vibrant destination, and Guadalajara is the perfect place to do so.

Enjoyed this post? You may also like:

• Guadalajara Food Guide
• Guadalajara Packing List
• Airbnb Experience: Tequila Day Trip
• Dining at Xokol in Guadalajara
• What to Expect During Semana Santa in Guadalajara
• Three Days in Mexico City, Mexico
• Five Days in Mexico City: A Second-Timer’s Guide
• A Meal to Remember: Dining at Pujol in Mexico City
• Things We Ate: Mexico City
• Things We Ate: Mexico City (Part Two!)
• Essential Mexico City: Lucha Libre
• Visiting Teotihuacan with a Local: An Airbnb Experience
• Three Days in Mexico City Packing List
• Five Days in Mexico City Packing List
• Five Days in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
• Puerto Vallarta Packing List

One more recommendation before you go: watch this series of episodes mostly filmed in Guadalajara.

What are you most looking forward to for your trip to Guadalajara? And can I come with you?

7 Comments on “ Travel Guide: How to Spend a Week in Guadalajara, Mexico ”

Thanks for the all inf. I may be going in Feb 2023 for 9 days and have points to stay at Casa Habita for 5 of them. It’s owned by Marriott.

That sounds like the perfect use of your Marriott Bonvoy points! I hope you have an incredible time – it’s such an underrated destination.

Hi Alyssa, Great info. My wife and I are hoping to visit Puebla, Oaxaca, Mexico City and Guadalajara before spending a few weeks in Nuevo Vallarta. Do you think 2 weeks in Guadalajara is too long. We will most likely stay in an Airbnb and will have no car. We are open to day trips from Guadalajara Cheers, Dan

Um, can I come with?! That sounds like a dream trip!

Depending on your travel style, two weeks in Guadalajara could be the most wonderful decision you’ve ever made, or leave you feeling restless by the time it’s over. If you’re big on food, you’ll have plenty of places on your list (and perhaps can have the luxury of revisiting a favorite or two!) and simply enjoy killing time around the city until your next meal. If not, most of the city’s major sights can be seen in three-ish days, so I’d recommend staying for up to ten days max, and sprinkling in a few day trips to places like Tequila, the pyramids, Lake Chapala, etc.

An Airbnb is the perfect way to go, and I definitely wouldn’t recommend renting a car. Stick with Ubers in the city, and consider a guided tour for the remaining activities. Have the very best time!

My partner and I will be heading to Guadalajara February 2023 for our honeymoon. Our stay will be at Quinta Real Guadalajara. Thank you for all the information you provided. I’ve been doing research on the must do’s while we are there. I was born there and was a resident of Hospicio Cabanas so I definitely want to revisit.

Congratulations on your upcoming honeymoon trip to Guadalajara! I can imagine that revisiting your roots will make the trip even more special.

The Quinta Real Guadalajara looks absolutely beautiful, and is in such a great location for exploring the city! I’m glad to hear that the information you’ve found has been helpful in planning your trip; I’m sure you’ll have an incredible time exploring the city and creating new memories. Cheers!🥂

Wohh exactly what I was searching for, appreciate it for posting .

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Guadalajara   Travel Guide

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Best Times To Visit Guadalajara

The best time to visit Guadalajara is between the months of October and December when the weather is dry, temperatures skim the lower 80s and festivals fill the calendar. The five months that span January and May are another great time to visit the city, thanks to decreased hotel prices. June through September is considered Guadalajara's low season since the city experiences heavy rainfall and high temperatures during this period.

Weather in Guadalajara

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

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GUADALAJARA

México » Estados » Jalisco »Guadalajara

Turismo en Guadalajara

Guadalajara es la capital del Estado de Jalisco y la segunda ciudad más grande de México. Es conocido mundialmente por su folclore, el renombrado Mariachi, la artesanía, el tequila y el deporte nacional, el charreria. Pocas ciudades pueden ofrecer tal variedad de cosas interesantes para ver y hacer, involucrando a los visitantes en un ambiente cultural, histórico y legendario.

También conocida como la Perla de Occidente, tiene características provincianas, pero a la vez moderna, dinámica y con gente amable. Guadalajara es una ciudad que invita a pasear por las calles de su Centro Histórico, ya que tienen un trazado en cuadrícula que hace que todo aquel que se sienta desorientado pueda volver inmediatamente a la carretera.

Guadalajara fue fundada el 14 de febrero de 1542. Hay varias formas de conocer la ciudad, pero la mejor de todas es vivir la experiencia de caminar por sus calles, probar su gastronomía, convivir con su gente y por supuesto conocer un poco. sobre lo que es. hermosa ciudad y sus sitios turísticos, estamos seguros que después de conocerla recordarás Guadajalara.

Puedes comenzar tu encantamiento visitando el Centro Histórico y sus magníficos edificios. El rico legado colonial se puede ver en toda la ciudad, incluida la Catedral, con el símbolo que se ha convertido en emblemático de Guadalajara, sus torres. ¿Tlaquepaque y Tonalá? están ubicadas fuera del límite de la ciudad, ambas localidades son mundialmente conocidas por la calidad y amplia variedad de su artesanía.

Mapa de Guadalajara

Atractivos turísticos en Guadalajara

Plaza guadalajara.

Está a la sombra de decenas de laureles y muestra una hermosa fuente. Hay algunos buenos cafés y algunas tiendas bonitas.

Palacio Municipal

El edificio fue terminado en 1952. En el interior del Ayuntamiento hay murales de la fundación de la ciudad, pintados por el nativo de Guadalajara Gabriel Flores.

Plaza de Armas

Es una plaza rectangular con un hermoso quiosco Art Noveau que se hizo en París en el siglo XIX. La plaza ha conservado cuatro esculturas de bronce de figuras que representan las cuatro estaciones del año. El quiosco se convierte en escenario de la State Band los martes, jueves y domingos por la noche.

Escudo de Armas de la Ciudad de Guadalajara

Conjunto de varias esculturas de bronce con dos leones rugientes uno frente al otro, posando sus patas delanteras sobre el tronco de un roble en señal de victoria. Junto a esta escultura hay dos columnas, de seis metros de altura, que recuerdan cuando Guadalajara recibió el título de ciudad en 1539 por Carlos I, rey de España.

Plaza de los Mariachis o Patio Tapati? O

Plaza de Mariachis cobra vida con la música de violines, guitarras y trompetas de estas músicas únicas de Jueves a Domingo de 15:30 a 21:00 hrs . Noches de karaoke, Lunes a miércoles de 21:30 a 03:00 hrs. .

Plaza Fundadores

La Plaza del Fundador contiene una fuente y una escultura en relieve de 21 mts. de largo y 3 m. Alto Jalisco diseñado por el artista Rafael Zamarripa.

Palacio de Gobierno

Este edificio data de la segunda mitad del siglo XVIII, y fue construido para reemplazar una estructura de adobe que se usaba desde 1643. La fachada de piedra está adornada por gárgolas en forma de armadura. En el interior puedes encontrar dos de Jose? Los murales más apasionantes de Clemente Orozco. Calendario: Lunes a Domingo de 9:00 a 20:00 hrs. .

Panteo? N de Bele? N (Panteón de Belén)

Fue construido en 1848. En la antigua rotonda se encontraban los restos de importantes políticos, educadores, científicos, músicos y escritores. Enigmático, bello e invadido por leyendas. La diversa arquitectura de las tumbas se ha convertido en un museo excepcional. Horario: hay tours disponibles Martes a Sábado 10:00, 11:00, 13:00 y 14:00 hrs. Jueves a Sábado 20:30, 22:00 y 23:30 hrs. .

Palacio de Justicia

Construido en 1588, el edificio formaba parte de un convento. En la pared de la escalera hay un magnífico mural pintado por Guillermo Chaávez Vega. Horario: Lunes a Viernes de 9:00 a 15:00 hrs.

Palacio Legislativo

Edificio del siglo XVIII con fachada neoclásica. Fue remodelado en 1982 para albergar el congreso. Existe un muro cóncavo recuperado con alfarería regional de Tonalá ?. Horario: Lunes a Viernes de 9:00 a 21:00 hrs.

Teatro Degollado

El teatro fue inaugurado en septiembre de 1866 y es un buen ejemplo de arquitectura neoclásica. En el interior, el techo abovedado contiene un fresco que representa una escena de la Divina Comedia de Dante pintada por Jacobo Galvez y Gerardo Suárez. El pórtico que sostiene el frontón consta de 16 columnas corintias. Tiene una capacidad de 1026 espectadores.

Plaza Tapati? A

Esta es una plaza moderna construida en 1982. Se extiende por medio kilómetro hasta el Instituto Cultural de Caban? As ya lo largo de su longitud encontrará modernas tiendas y restaurantes, fuentes y llamativas esculturas modernas. Su pieza central es la gran escultura / fuente de Quetzalcoa? Tl, consta de cinco piezas de bronce y la central mide 25 metros (82 pies) de altura. En el Rincón del Diablo se encuentra la Oficina de Turismo de Jalisco, este edificio fue utilizado por la Santa Inquisición durante la época colonial.

La Rotonda de los Hombres Ilustres

La colosal obra está compuesta por 17 columnas estriadas. Este espacio rinde homenaje a los ilustres personajes de Jalisco.

Mercado de San Juan de Dios

Es el mercado interior más grande de América Latina. Tiene una amplia variedad de artesanías, dulces típicos y pequeños restaurantes con variedad de platillos mexicanos.

Bosque “Los Colomos” (Centro Cultural Casa Colomos )

Fue inaugurado en 1902, y hoy es un centro cultural con una amplia variedad de eventos culturales.

Zoológico de Guadalajara

Uno de los mejores y más modernos zoológicos de México. Hay una sección de reptiles impresionante, dos aviarios, un zoológico interactivo, un museo interactivo y restaurantes.

Casa de artesanía (Casa de los Artesanos)

Tiene una amplia muestra de más de 50 artesanos. Calendario: Lunes a Sábado 9:00 a 19:00 hrs .

Parque Temático “Selva Mágica”

El parque de diversiones cuenta con 33 atracciones, la montaña rusa más grande del oeste de México, un espectáculo de delfines en Mundo Marino y demostraciones de aves. Calendario: Lunes a Viernes 10:00 a 18:00 hrs. Sábado y Domingo 10:00 a 20:00 hrs.

Parque Agua Azul

Cuenta con jardines bien cuidados, couts de fútbol, aviario, santuario de mariposas, una casa de orquídeas y una? Concha Acu? Stica ?, una concha de concet donde actúan artistas locales e internacionales. Calendario: Diariamente de 10:00 a 18:30 hrs.

Iglesias en Guadalajara

Catedral Metropolitana de Guadalajara (Catedral Metropolitana)

Este edificio fue construido en 1561 bajo las órdenes de Felipe II, rey de España. Las dos torres que se elevan a una altura de 65 metros tienen un aspecto realmente llamativo y se han convertido en el símbolo de la ciudad. El interior tiene una decoración neoclásica, única en el país.

Sagrario Metropolitano (Tabernáculo Metropolitano)

Edificio terminado en 1843 con fachada neoclásica. En el interior destacan las vidrieras de plomo.

Templo de Jesús María

Fue construido en 1722 como parte de un convento de monjas dominicas. En el interior hay bonitos retablos neoclásicos y pinturas coloniales.

Templo de la Merced, Nuestra Senora de las Mercedes

El edificio data aproximadamente de 1721 y tiene una fachada barroca. La Sacristía tiene una serie de pinturas de los siglos XVII y 118.

Templo de Santa Mónica

Fue construida en 1733 y la iglesia es uno de los mejores ejemplos de la arquitectura colonial de la ciudad. Sus fachadas están llenas de un rico estilo barroco y el altar mayor tiene un estilo neoclásico.

Templo de San Agustín

Edificio del siglo XVI con fachada barroca. El edificio a la izquierda de la iglesia, originalmente un claustro agustino, es ahora la Escuela de Música de la Universidad de Guadalajara.

Templo de San Juan de Dios

Data de 1726 y ofrece una fachada sobria y hermosa. Junto a la iglesia se encuentra la tradicional? Plaza de los Mariachis ?.

Templo de San Francisco de Asi

Fue construida a finales del siglo XVI con una hermosa fachada de estilo barroco.

Templo de San José? de Gracia

Elegante edificio neocla? Sico del siglo XIX, constuii? Do en el lugar donde se encuentra el Convento de Santo Domingo.

Templo de Santa Mari? A de Gracia

Elegante edificio neoclásico del siglo XIX, construido donde se instaló el Convento de Santo Domingo.

El Expiatorio, Templo del Santi? Simo Sacramento

Su construcción comenzó en 1897. La sorprendente Iglesia de la Expiación, de estilo neogótico, es la iglesia más impresionante de Guadalajara. Los tres tímpanos en la fachada de la iglesia están adornados con mosaicos italianos creados en la Fábrica de Mosaicos del Vaticano y tiene grandes vidrieras y un hermoso rosetón en la fachada.

Parrroquia de Nuestra Sen? Ora del Rosario

Una interesante construcción construida en estilo neoclásico en 1962. El interior tiene un estilo clásico con pinturas murales.

Parroquia del Santuario de Nuestra Senora de Guadalupe

Se concluyó en 1781 una bella construcción de estilo churrigueresco.

Templo de Nuestra Senora del Pilar

Fue construida en 1720. El interior de la iglesia es simple, enfocándose en los altares y murales neoclásicos.

Templo de San Diego de Alcalá?

Construida en la segunda década del siglo XVIII tiene una fachada sencilla y elegante.

Templo de San Felipe Neri

Su construcción se terminó en 1802 con su hermosa fachada de estilo plateresco y una majestuosa torre. En el interior hay 14 pinturas atribuidas a Miguel Cabrera, destacado pintor del siglo XVIII.

Templo de Nuestra Senora del Carmen

Fouded en el siglo XVII y reconstruida en el siglo XIX en estilo neoclásico. En el interior de la iglesia se exhiben hermosas pinturas de la época colonial.

Parroquia San Miguel de Mezquita? N

El edificio, concluido en 1733, muestra una interesante fachada revestida de cantera y precedida de un gran atrio.

Templo Sen? O de la Ascensio? N

Una construcción barroca del siglo XVIII.

Templo de Nuestra Senora de Aranzazu

Es la única iglesia de Guadalajara que contiene varios de sus originales retablos churriguerescos dorados del siglo XVIII. El altar mayor policromado es la principal característica de la iglesia.

Templo de Nuestra Sen? Ora de Bele? N

La fachada principal está realizada en piedra de cantera y aún se conservan los tres retablos originales, caso único en Guadalajara.

Ex-Convento del Carmen

Fue construida en 1758. Hoy la iglesia se utiliza como auditorio para eventos culturales y sociales.

¿San Jose? Parroquia de Analco

Fue construida en 1543 y se convirtió en la iglesia más importante de esa época. La fachada tiene un estilo plateresco.

Parroquia San Juan Bautista

Data de 1541. Hoy la construcción es un estilo de transición entre el barroco y el neoclásico.

Templo de San Sebastián

Es una de las iglesias más antiguas de Guadalajara.

Museos en Guadalajara

Museo del palacio de gobierno (museo del palacio de gobierno).

Dispone de 8 habitaciones diferentes. Hay una sala llamada "El Agave Azul" (agave azul) que muestra el proceso del tequila y su historia, y otra muestra la historia de los grupos indígenas que vivieron en Guadalajara. Calendario: Martes a Sábado de 10:00 a 18:00 hrs, Domingo de 10:00 a 15:00 hrs.

Instituto Cultural Caban? As (¿Caban? Como Instituto Cultural)

Este edificio fue construido por Manuel Tolsa? y finalizado en 1845. La fachada del edificio es de estilo neoclásico, cuenta con 23 patios, 106 habitaciones, 72 salones y dos capillas. Uno de sus mayores atractivos son los murales de José Clemente Orozco, uno de los más grandes muralistas mexicanos, que cubre el vestíbulo principal. Entre estos murales se encuentra “Hombre del Fuego” considerado como una de las mejores obras de Orozco.

Este notable complejo alberga escuelas de artes y oficios, salas de exposiciones y áreas de teatro, música y danza. Inmediatamente enfrente del Caban? As hay dos grupos de esculturas-sillas antropomorfas de bronce que son la deliciosa creaci? N del nativo de Guadalajara Alejandro Colunga, titulada "Sala de los Magos" y "Magos Universales". El edificio del siglo XIX es Patrimonio de la Humanidad. Horario: Martes a Domingo de 10:00 a 18:00 hrs.

Museo del Periodismo y las Artes Gráficas - Casa de los Perros (Museo de Artes Gráficas y Periodismo)

El edificio tiene una fachada de estilo neoclásico, y alguna vez fue conocida como la Casa de los Perros por las dos estatuas de perros que adornan las cornisas del edificio. La primera imprenta de Guadalajara se instaló aquí en 1792. El museo exhibe una hermosa colección de grabados y maquinaria de los años 1600? S 1700 s. Muestra una reseña del periodismo en Guadalajara, exposiciones de cuadros, pinturas y una biblioteca.

Además, hay una sala interactiva que ilustra la evolución de la escritura. Calendario: Martes a sábado a partir de las 10:00. a 18:00 hrs. Domingo de 10:00 a 16:00 hrs.

Museo de la Ciudad (Museo de la ciudad)

Ubicado en una casa del siglo XVIII, contiene obras de arte, artefactos y documentos sobre el desarrollo de la ciudad desde la época prehispánica hasta el siglo XX. Calendario: Martes a Viernes de 10:00 a 17:30 hrs. Sábado de 10:00 a 17:30 hrs; y Domingo de 10:00 a 14:30 hrs.

Casa Lo? Pez Portillo - Museo

El edificio del siglo XVIII presenta una impresionante fachada barroca. El museo exhibe una impresionante colección de muebles y accesorios europeos de los siglos XVII al XX. Alberga conciertos, conferencias y diferentes exposiciones. Horario: Martes a Sábado 10:00 a 17:00 hrs. Domingo 10:00 a 15:00 hrs.

Museo de las Artes Populares (Museo de Artes Populares)

Exhibe “el arte popular” del estado de Jalisco. Calendario: Martes a Sábado de 10:00 a 17:00 hrs. Domingo 10:00 a 15:00 hrs.

Museo Regional de Guadalajara (Museo Regional)

El Museo ocupa un magnífico edificio construido entre los años 1701 y 1758 con una hermosa fachada barroca. El museo alberga una colección de piezas prehispánicas y paleontológicas, incluido un esqueleto de mamut. También exhibe una impresionante colección de pintura europea y mexicana de los siglos XVI al XIX. Calendario: Martes a sábado de 9:00 a 17:35 hrs; y domingos de 9:00 a 16:30.

Museo de las Artes de la Universidad de Guadalajara (Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de la Universidad de Guadalajara)

Este edificio tiene un estilo renacentista francés. Con 5 salas, la colección permanente de arte contemporáneo, incluye dos murales de Orozco. El patio delantero muestra un reloj de sol que conmemora el bicentenario de su fundación. Calendario: Lunes a Viernes de 10:00 a 18:00 hrs. Domingo 12:00 a 16:00 hrs .

Museo de Cera y de lo Increi? Ble (Museo de Cera y Ripley, ¡lo creas o no!)

Presenta una colección de más de 150 figuras de cera que representan personajes de renombre con escenarios reales. Contiguo está el Museo Ripley, que exhibe objetos peculiares e increíbles. Calendario: Todos los días 11:00 a 20:00 hrs .

Biblioteca Iberoamericana Octavio Paz (Biblioteca Iberoamericana)

Está ubicado en un templo del siglo XVI construido por jesuitas. Hay exposiciones temporales y otros eventos culturales. Calendario: Lunes a Viernes 9:00 a 21:00 hrs. Sábado 9:00 a 17:00 hrs

Museo de la Historia de Medicina (Museo de Medicina)

Ubicado en el Hospital Civil de Guadalajara que originalmente fue parte del complejo del Cementerio de Belén. Entre sus colecciones se encuentran una sala dedicada a la fitoterapia indígena, fotografías, pinturas, esculturas, una biblioteca y material médico.

Museo de Arte Sacro de Guadalajara (Museo de Arte Sacro)

Está ubicado detrás de la Catedral. Tiene una interesante colección de arte religioso. Calendario: Martes a Sábado de 10:00 a 17:00 hrs. Domingo de 10:00 a 14:00 hrs .

Más atractivos turísticos en JALISCO

Puerto Vallarta

Ubicada en la Bahía de Banderas, en el estado de Jalisco, la ciudad de Puerto Vallarta es considerada el segundo destino turístico más importante del Pacífico mexicano, sus espectaculares paisajes de montaña, playa y manglares ofrecen a sus visitantes un sinfín de actividades y recorridos. Puerto Vallarta fue un pueblo tradicional antes de convertirse en un destino turístico internacional. Los conquistadores españoles en 1525 la llamaron Bahía de Banderas, en base al nombre de la cultura que se había asentado aquí. Después de la Independencia de México pasó a llamarse Las Peñas de Santa María Guadalupe y luego se redujo a Puerto Las Peñas durante los años del boom de la minería de plata cerca de San Sebastián y Mascota.… Leer más

El tequila es una bebida mixta del siglo XVI fruto del sincretismo de dos culturas: la mexicana y la española. Los mexicas nunca imaginaron las dimensiones que podrían alcanzar con el descubrimiento de las mieles de agave. Tras la llegada de los españoles a México, se incorporó un nuevo proceso de post-fermentación, la destilación, obteniendo así un líquido innovador: el tequila.… Leer más

Playas en Jalisco

En el mapa de playas de Jalisco se destaca el corredor costero conocido como Costalegre, que incluye cuatro municipios: Cabo Corrientes, Tomatlán, La Huerta y Cihuatlán, así como los litorales de seis bahías: Tenacatita, Bahía de Navidad, Costa Careyes, Costa Majahuas. , Bahía de Chamela y Cabo Corrientes. Todas estas están consideradas entre las mejores playas de Jalisco. El turismo en Jalisco es uno de los más grandes de México, ya que esta actividad atrajo a casi 22 millones de turistas nacionales y cuatro millones de turistas extranjeros que visitaron el estado durante el último año.… Leer más

Pueblos Mágicos en Jalisco

Jalisco cuenta con 8 Pueblos Mágicos donde vivir experiencias únicas, disfrutando de la gastronomía local, los impresionantes paisajes naturales, paseos y excursiones de ecoturismo, pero lo mejor de todo, la calidez y hospitalidad de su gente.… Leer más

Gastronomía de Jalisco

El estado de Jalisco tiene una cocina increíblemente diversa y deliciosa, es posiblemente una de las regiones más tradicionales de México. Cuando los colonos españoles llegaron a la región introdujeron varios ingredientes en la dieta mexicana. Esta fusión de cocinas e ingredientes ha hecho de la cocina mexicana una de las cocinas más extensas y matizadas del mundo. Platos clásicos de la zona incluyen la Birria, un platillo a base de ternera, chivo o cordero horneado en una salsa con varias especias, pimientos picantes y cebolla picada, se prepara en un asado, en un hoyo en el suelo; el pozole, sopa de cerdo o pollo con forma de estofado, maíz molido, chiles suaves y hojas de cilantro; el pipián, una salsa que se sirve como condimento o adobo para platos de aves, mariscos, cerdo y verduras; tostada de pata, tortilla frita con carne de res; enchiladas tapati? as, una tortilla de maíz enrollada alrededor de un relleno y cubierta con una cremosa salsa de chile poblano y tomate; y las famosas tortas ahogadas, un sándwich elaborado con un pan especial llamado “birote” (más salado que los panecillos) relleno de carne de cerdo cubierta o “ahogada” en una salsa picante preparada con tomates y pimientos picantes.… Leer más

Alrededores de Guadalajara

Cerca de Guadalajara se encuentran varios de los pueblos más bellos e interesantes del país, por lo que estas vacaciones las puedes aprovechar y visitar esos lugares que guardan la verdadera esencia de México en sus calles.… Leer más

Compras en Guadalajara

Ninguna visita a Guadalajara estaría completa sin tomarse un tiempo para comprar. Ya sea que necesite un nuevo par de zapatos, un traje de lujo a medida, piezas de decoración para el hogar o incluso especias mexicanas, Guadalajara seguramente superará sus expectativas. Las opciones de compras en Guadalajara son amplias, ya sea que busques calzado, artesanías, joyas, dulces, souvenirs, en esta guía tratamos de incluir opciones para todos los presupuestos.… Leer más

Tradiciones de Jalisco

Jalisco está lleno de sorpresas. Una metrópolis cosmopolita moderna, pero auténtica y tradicional al mismo tiempo. Muchas de las cosas típicamente asociadas con México tienen su origen en Jalisco. Estos incluyen rodeos llamados charreadas, mariachis y, por supuesto, el tequila.… Leer más

Visitas Guiadas en GUADALAJARA

Vuelos y hoteles en guadalajara, más atractivos turísticos en méxico.

• Pueblos Mágicos

Un Pueblo Mágico es un lugar con símbolos y leyendas, pueblos con historia que en muchos casos han sido escenario de hechos trascendentes para nuestro país, son lugares que muestran la identidad nacional en cada uno de sus rincones, con una magia que emana de sus atracciones; visitarlos es una oportunidad para descubrir el encanto de México. El Programa Pueblos Mágicos contribuye a revalorizar un conjunto de poblaciones del país que siempre han estado en el imaginario colectivo de la nación y que representan alternativas frescas y variadas para los visitantes nacionales y extranjeros. Un pueblo que a través del tiempo y de cara a la modernidad, ha conservado, valorado y defendido su patrimonio histórico, cultural y natural; y lo manifiesta en diversas expresiones a través de su patrimonio material e inmaterial. Un Pueblo Mágico es un pueblo que tiene atributos únicos, simbólicos, historias auténticas, hechos trascendentes, vida cotidiana, lo que significa una gran oportunidad para el aprovechamiento turístico, teniendo en cuenta las motivaciones y necesidades de los viajeros.… Leer más

• Ecoturismo y Aventura

México es uno de los mejores países para el Ecoturismo ya que posee una gran variedad de flora y fauna, así como una gran cantidad de refugios para especies extraordinarias. Se puede disfrutar de actividades recreativas de apreciación y conocimiento de la naturaleza a través del contacto con ella, tales como: observación de estrellas, observación de atractivos naturales, fauna y avistamiento de aves. A lo largo de México existen más de 176 áreas naturales protegidas, 5 de ellas consideradas por la UNESCO como Patrimonio Natural de la Humanidad. Solo por esto y mucho más, creemos que México es un paraíso para el ecoturismo.… Leer más

En las Playas de México puedes sumergirte en el océano azul intenso de las bahías del Pacífico, tomar el sol en la orilla de las cálidas y transparentes olas del Mar Caribe en Quintana Roo o incluso descansar en las hermosas costas del Golfo de México. Las playas mexicanas esconden maravillosos secretos para el viajero. Al visitarlos, además de disfrutar del excelente clima y las actividades acuáticas, puedes descubrir espléndidos sitios arqueológicos e interesantes ciudades coloniales sin viajar largas distancias.… Leer más

• Sitios arqueológicos

Las Zonas Arqueológicas son el pasado cultural de todo mexicano. Te sorprenderá el ambiente, la naturaleza y el entorno que los rodea. Subir a la cima o estar cerca nos hará retroceder en el tiempo para admirar cada detalle. México es un país de cultura y tradiciones, muchas de las cuales hemos heredado de los habitantes prehispánicos de este vasto territorio, si bien es cierto que hubo más asentamientos en la parte central y sur del país, también es posible encontrar algunos restos arqueológicos en el norte. ... Leer más

• tradiciones en mexico

Es prácticamente imposible hacer una selección minuciosa y sobre todo certera de los lugares que visitar en México. Cada lugar que nuestras casas de campo es único y hermoso a su manera. México, con sus cerca de 2 millones de km², tiene una gran cantidad de escenarios que ofrecer, así como un sinfín de actividades para realizar. No te pierdas e ingresa a los lugares a visitar en México. En México, además de las playas y sus famosos sitios arqueológicos, existen muchos otros sitios y actividades realmente interesantes que debes conocer. En los alrededores de las principales ciudades encontrarás lugares llenos de cultura y tradición, donde pasar unas relajantes, interesantes y divertidas vacaciones. En tu viaje por México no puedes dejar de obtener souvenirs, las artesanías que aquí se elaboran son de la más alta calidad y reconocidas a nivel mundial. No se puede perder un recorrido de compras.… Leer más

• Estados de mexico

México posee una increíble diversidad de paisajes, donde destaca la belleza de sus playas, reconocidas internacionalmente. En su vasto territorio de costas, se encuentran playas de inigualable belleza y coloridos paisajes. Una amplia red de hoteles y servicios turísticos de primer nivel está a disposición de los visitantes de estas playas. México también es un lugar místico, salpicado de testimonios arqueológicos heredados de sus habitantes originales. Los monumentos hechos por los mayas, aztecas y toltecas se ubican en paisajes mágicos, como faros en un océano de belleza natural. Ofrecen a los visitantes edificios que cuentan su historia y museos que recogen su patrimonio cultural. Y que mantienen vivas tradiciones ancestrales, en ceremonias y festivales, donde se puede disfrutar de actividades culturales y de entretenimiento.… Leer más

• Gastronomía

La Gastronomía de México tiene una gran diversidad de platos típicos, razón por la cual fue reconocida por la UNESCO como Patrimonio Inmaterial de la Humanidad. Los ingredientes básicos y representativos de los platos mexicanos son: maíz, cilantro, ají, frijoles, piloncillo, nopal y tomate. La cocina mexicana también se caracteriza por sus salsas, que sirven de acompañamiento a platos tradicionales, elaborados a base de especias.… Leer más

• Ciudades capitales

Folklore, gastronomía, cultura literaria, arte y exposiciones, es lo que encontrarás en las capitales de los estados de México. Al norte, el México colonial, Puebla, Guadalajara, Guanajuato, el desierto de Sonora y la península de California. Al oriente Veracruz y al golfo. Al oeste Acapulco, Oaxaca y Tuxtla Gutiérrez. Y al sur la Riviera Maya y las pirámides de Chichén-Itzá, Tulúm y Cobá en Yucatán, Palenque en Chiapas, los cenotes y las selvas centroamericanas.… Leer más

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• 10 Reasons To Visit Guadalajara...

10 Reasons To Visit Guadalajara Instead Of Mexico City

Northern England Writer

In comparison to Mexico City, Guadalajara is wildly underrated as a principal tourist destination. Sure, some travelers pass through on their way to the Pacific coastline and hippy hotspot of Sayulita, but often it’s ignored without a second thought. However, Guadalajara arguably has just as much to offer as Mexico’s capital and even boasts experiences and cultural heritage you simply won’t find in Mexico City . With that in mind, here are all the reasons you should visit Guadalajara instead.

Guadalajara has some of the best food in mexico.

While Mexico City has some exceptional street food, regional cuisine and some truly delicious dishes available at every turn, Guadalajara wins hands down when it comes to dining. Cheesy tacos, the deceptively spicy hangover-busting torta ahogada (a sandwich bathed in spicy sauce, filled with deep fried pork and fresh onions), and the unmissable birria . Plus, Guadalajara’s crispy lonches (a sandwich that uses the regional birote bread) beat Mexico City’s soggy tortas any day!

Pulque, while it is something everyone should try once, is an acquired taste at best. Tequila , on the other hand, is a versatile spirit that can be mixed with coke to make a delicious charro negro, added to fizzy grapefruit juice for a refreshing paloma, or even just enjoyed straight (in sips not shots!). Guadalajara is also situated just a few hours from Tequila, meaning you can take your own day trip to the blue agave filled fields and see the tequila production process for yourself.

Guadalajara is much less overwhelming

Mexico City is enough to make even the most relaxed person’s stress levels go through the roof. Guadalajara, as Mexico’s second biggest city , still offers that big city feel without the chaotic tendency Mexico City leans towards even on a good day, so you can really focus on enjoying your visit. Additionally, the public transport is far less stressful in Guadalajara. While the city only has two metro lines in comparison with Mexico City’s 12-line subterranean monster, most things around the center are accessible on foot. Even when you do need to take the metro, you won’t end up pinned against the window because of the overcrowding.

You’ll save a ton of money in Guadalajara

To visit or even live in Guadalajara will set you back far less than the capital counterpart. Beers are cheaper in bars, entry is generally free and the hostels and accommodation aren’t as expensive as some of the widely recommended options in Mexico City. If you needed to rent a decent apartment in Guadalajara, you’d be paying MXM$2000 a month maximum, whereas renting a flat for that price in the nice neighborhoods of Mexico City is but a dream for many residents and expats.

The museum scene rivals that of the capital

We’re not claiming that Guadalajara has more museums than Mexico City, mainly because that would be absurd, but the quality of them is fantastic . Whether you like modern art or history, you’ve got all your bases covered in Guadalajara, and we especially recommend a visit to the Instituto Cultural Cabañas . Plus, the cathedral in Guadalajara is far more iconic – Mexico City’s Catedral Metropolitana is beautiful, no doubt, but the pale-yellow twin spires of the Guadalajara cathedral are just far more emblematic of the region.

You don’t have to travel as far for great nightlife

Guadalajara is smaller than Mexico City, so most of the great nightlife is around Avenida Chapultepec and the historic center – all areas theoretically in walking distance. Mexico City, however, is so spread out that if you fancy a night out in the center and you’re staying in the south, you need to factor in an hour or so to even get there. For some of the best bars in Guadalajara, check out this guide .

Guadalajara is only four hours from the beach

You read that right – Guadalajara is just four short hours from some of the best beaches and most popular tourist destinations in Mexico, Puerto Vallarta . While four hours may seem a long way if you’re from a smaller country, in sprawling Mexico that’s not bad at all! Mexico City’s closest beach, in contrast, is around a six-hour drive from the capital. If the beach isn’t your thing, though, Guadalajara’s outlying towns of Tonalá and Tlaquepaque are the perfect spots to wander the streets and pick up some artesanías .

Mexico City has Plaza Garibaldi, but Guadalajara is the home of mariachi

As with the food and drink mentioned earlier, Guadalajara is the birthplace of some of the country’s most representative musical stylings, too, notably mariachi. While you can check out excellent mariachi music at Mexico City’s Plaza Garibaldi, why not just cut out the middleman? This brings us to the assertion that Guadalajara IS Mexico — think of everything you associate with Mexico; mariachi, tequila, sombreros and the Jarabe Tapatío. They all originated in Jalisco! So, if you want a mixture of tradition and big city living, you can’t go wrong with Guadalajara.

Guadalajara is the city of eternal spring

In summer, Mexico City is going through its rainy season (as is Guadalajara, to be fair), but the crowded city atmosphere means that when it’s hot in Mexico City, it’s also humid in Mexico City and if you’re traveling on the metro all day, it doesn’t make for a pleasant sensation. Meanwhile, Guadalajara (aforementioned rainy season aside) is far more temperate all year round, which is especially welcomed during the winter months.

Tapatíos are more attractive than chilangos

OK, so hear us out with this one, as we’re just relating a time-old adage that’s associated with the state of Jalisco! Guadalajara is regularly regarded as the city with the most beautiful men and women in the country (although of course beauty is subjective), but if you are in the market for a trophy wife or husband, Guadalajara’s the place to be. We kid, we kid, and honestly, we must admit that in terms of friendliness, Mexico City and Guadalajara are at a tie score.

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May Is The Cheapest Time To Visit These 5 Mexico Destinations

Post may contain affiliate links; we may receive compensation if you click links to those products. This has no impact on how offers are presented. Our site does not include all offers available. Content on page accurate as of posting date.

Seeing all the jaw-dropping sights and indulgent experiences people post from their trips to Mexico, you'd think that a getaway south of the border would be way out of your budget.

Luckily for those looking to go someplace fun and warm before the summer rush begins, now is the cheapest (and overall best) time to visit 5 of Mexico's most gorgeous destinations .

And with a healthy mix of world-class hubs and quieter, more authentic towns, you're guaranteed to find something that works for you.

Using Kayak's " Best Time To Travel " tool and Skyscanner's pricing algorithm, we found out that May is the best month to travel to these five Mexican cities if you want to make some serious savings.

Mexico City

Let's start with a place we all know and love since I know you'll be asking.

Yes, the capital is one of the five cities best visited in May – airfare starts at just $180, while hotel rates average around $84 – if experiencing Mexico City on a budget is a goal of yours, it really doesn't get much better than this.

Beyond the reasonable prices, the city is also promising travelers clear skies, quieter streets, and balmy 18-25°C (64-77°F) temperatures that'll make those walks through Zócalo, Coyoacán, and Roma feel dreamier than ever.

And it just so happens that this is the month of Mexico's (arguably) most important national holiday – Cinco de Mayo brings the capital to life with parades, traditional dances, and otherworldly food.

So, if you're feeling extra festive this time of year, run, don't walk, to book those plane tickets.

Guadalajara

Known as the birthplace of tequila and mariachi music, Guadalajara is the perfect place to go if you want to revel in the rich local culture without missing out on all of the tourist-friendly amenities and modern flair of better-known hubs, either.

And with round-trip tickets starting at just $220 this May, you have no excuse to put off your Guadalajara trip any longer.

Here, the temperatures are a bit higher than in Mexico City, hovering around 17-30°C (63-86°F), so if you want to get into that summer spirit somewhere where most hotels charge just a little over $50 a night, Guadalajara is the perfect place to do just that.

If you feel like you're the only person left who hasn't planned a Cancun trip this year, say goodbye to the FOMO and book those plane tickets right now – after all, prices have never been lower.

With just $180, you can fly to Cancun and back for what will undoubtedly be one of the greatest beach vacations of your life.

Don't believe me? Why do you think so many people can't get enough of the city?

Stays here are a bit pricier than in the rest of the country, but you won't struggle to find a decent place for under $100 a night, always assuming you're not exclusively looking for one of those bougie all-inclusive resorts (which, by the way, aren't insanely expensive either).

That said, if you're trying to steer clear of Cancun's chaotic crowds while still getting to experience that paradisical Mexican coastline, Acapulco is a fantastic choice.

Return flights between the U.S. and the gorgeous resort town range between $178 and $245, which is cheaper than what you'll find any other time of the year.

What's more, temperatures are set to average around 29°C (84.2°F), and the April crowds will have subsided, so chances are you won't find a better beach experience this time of year.

This port city located on the Gulf of Mexico coast will stun you with its whitewashed buildings, centuries-old historic sights, and movie-like nature. 

If you don't know what I'm talking about, I highly recommend taking advantage of the $330 plane tickets being sold right now to see what I mean firsthand.

Beyond that, with temperatures staying in the 22-30°C (72-86°F) range and hotel prices varying between $37 and $57 a night, there's really no reason for you to say no to a dreamy Veracruz getaway this May.

Having explored over 20 countries in the last 3 years, Megi is committed to bringing the freshest, most up-to-date news and perspectives on the world's most fascinating destinations.

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The post May Is The Cheapest Time To Visit These 5 Mexico Destinations appeared first on Travel Off Path .