Guadalajara

Mexico, North America

Guadalajara is the vibrant heart of Mexico's Jalisco state, known for its rich mariachi music, traditional tequila production, and stunning colonial architecture. Visitors are drawn to the city's beautiful plazas, like Plaza de Armas and the iconic Teatro Degollado. Art lovers will appreciate the regional museums, while foodies can indulge in local delicacies like tortas ahogadas. The lively markets and festivals, including the International Mariachi Festival, showcase the city's cultural heritage, making it a captivating destination for any traveler.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-5 days

Type

City

Vibe

History

Airport

Don Miguel Y Hidalgo

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

11 Best Things to Do in Guadalajara

1

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Guadalajara Cathedral

A stunning example of Gothic architecture; must-see landmark.

No booking required
2

Est. 4 hrs

Year round

Adults only

Visit Tequila distilleries

Sample Mexico's famous spirit in its birthplace.

Booking required
3

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Stroll through Tlaquepaque

Charming artisan village with vibrant markets and galleries.

No booking required
4

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Discover Hospicio Cabañas

UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning murals.

No booking required
5

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Experience the Mercado San Juan de Dios

One of the largest markets in Latin America; local goods.

No booking required
6

Est. 2.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Attend a Lucha Libre match

Experience Mexico's colorful wrestling culture live.

No booking required
7

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Instituto Cultural Cabañas

Art and culture hub in a historic building.

No booking required
8

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Relax at Parque Agua Azul

Beautiful park with gardens and a zoo; peaceful retreat.

No booking required
9

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Teatro Degollado

A stunning theater known for its architecture and performances.

No booking required
10

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Tour the Guadalajara Zoo

A well-maintained zoo with diverse species and activities.

No booking required
11

Est. < 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Rotonda de los Jaliscienses Ilustres

Monument honoring notable Jalisco figures; historical insight.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~15%)

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Low

LGBTQ+ safety score

4 (#41 globally)

Cost

Cheap

Currency

Mexican Peso

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Spanish

(<20% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Mole

VE

Rich sauce made with chiles and spices (National dish)

Tacos al Pastor

Tortillas filled with marinated pork

Chiles en Nogada

Stuffed peppers with meat and walnut sauce

Pozole

Hearty soup with hominy and meat

Tamales

V

Corn dough filled with various ingredients

Phrases to learn

English

Spanish

Hello

Hola

(Oh-lah)

Yes/No

Si / No

(See / No)

Thank you

Gracias

(Grah-thee-ahs)

Excuse me

Perdón

(Per-dohn)

How much?

¿Cuánto?

(Kwan-toh)