Why Go to Guadalajara
YOUR DESTINATION AT A GLANCE
Guadalajara offers a more authentic taste of Mexico than many beach resorts, at a calmer pace than Mexico City. The capital of Jalisco state is the birthplace of mariachi music, sits near the region where tequila is made, and blends stunning colonial architecture with a lively, modern nightlife.
Guadalajara balances tradition and modern style beautifully. Locals, called Tapatios, might cheer at a charreada, Mexico's traditional rodeo, or a lucha libre wrestling match, then head out for local craft beer. Explore the historic center with its grand cathedral and the Hospicio Cabanas, home to striking murals by Jose Clemente Orozco and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander the artsy suburb of Tlaquepaque for crafts and live mariachi, and take a day trip to the town of Tequila to tour the agave fields and distilleries.
Guadalajara has nonstop flights from many U.S. cities and pairs nicely with Puerto Vallarta on the coast. I'll plan your stay, tequila tour and the best places to hear mariachi.
BEST FOR
Culture seekers, foodies, history fans and city explorers
BEST MONTHS
October–May
EXPLORE
Centro Histórico has the cathedral and plazas; Colonia Americana features cafés and restaurants; Zapopan has cultural sites and modern shopping; Tlaquepaque is known for crafts.
SIX18 SIGNATURE DESTINATION GUIDE
Guadalajara
North America › Central Mexico › Mexico › Jalisco
Mariachi heritage, colorful markets and Mexican design
Historical & Heritage
Tequila
Mariachi
Art
SIX18 INSIDER TIP
Combine Guadalajara’s historic center in the morning with Tlaquepaque on a separate afternoon.
Experiences Worth Exploring
THINGS TO DO
Check current exhibition access and take time to view the murals.
Hospicio Cabañas
UNESCO-listed historic complex known for monumental murals by José Clemente Orozco.
Visit respectfully around worship services.
Guadalajara Cathedral
Landmark cathedral stands beside historic plazas and civic buildings in the city center.
Check the performance calendar for interior access.
Teatro Degollado
Neoclassical theater known for cultural performances and an impressive facade.
Combine it with a walking loop around Cathedral Square.
Rotonda de los Jaliscienses Ilustres
A civic monument honoring notable figures from the state of Jalisco.
Keep belongings secure and compare prices.
Mercado San Juan de Dios
Large indoor market selling foods, crafts and everyday goods.
A modern high-rise hotel convenient for business travel and western-city attractions.
Hotel Riu Plaza Guadalajara
Zona Minerva / Chapalita
City
An upscale hotel adjoining the Andares shopping and dining district.
Hyatt Regency Andares Guadalajara
Zapopan / Andares
City
A refined hotel in the northern city near restaurants and commercial areas.
Grand Fiesta Americana Guadalajara Country Club
Providencia / Country Club
City
An elegant hacienda-inspired hotel with landscaped courtyards and a quieter setting.
Quinta Real Guadalajara
Zona Minerva
City · Boutique
A contemporary property within the Punto Sao Paulo dining and shopping complex.
NH Collection Guadalajara Providencia
Providencia
City
A design hotel from Grupo Habita with a rooftop pool, in the city's most walkable neighborhood.
Casa Habita
Lafayette / Americana
Boutique · City
A sleek modern hotel known for its art collection, close to Avenida Chapultepec's bars.
Demetria Hotel
Lafayette / Chapultepec
Boutique · City
A cozy boutique hotel in a 1930s mansion with garden and fireplaces.
Villa Ganz
Lafayette
Boutique
A historic, good-value hotel near the cathedral and main plazas.
Hotel Morales
Centro Histórico
Value · City
A large, family-friendly hotel at the Minerva roundabout, near shopping and dining.
Fiesta Americana Guadalajara
Glorieta Minerva
City · Family · Value
Curated Accommodations
WHERE TO STAY
November in Guadalajara
High 81°F · Low 48°F · Rain 0.4 in
Day of the Dead brings altars and celebrations, and the FIL book fair opens late in the month.
October through May often brings drier sightseeing weather; summer usually has afternoon rain.
Best Times to Visit Guadalajara
WHEN TO GO
06
Tequila and Tlaquepaque Trips
Nearby destinations require planned transport. Choose a driver for distillery tours and verify return times.
05
Taxis and App Rides
Use reputable booking channels and confirm pickup locations, particularly for airport transfers.
04
Historic Center Walking
The cathedral area and central plazas can be explored on foot in daylight. Take normal precautions for belongings.
03
Mi Macro and City Buses
Bus rapid transit and other bus services reach additional areas. Check routes and fare cards.
02
Mi Tren Rail
Urban light rail links selected districts, including central corridors. Confirm the station closest to your hotel.
01
Guadalajara Airport
Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla International Airport is outside central Guadalajara. Use recognized transfers or licensed taxi services.
Light rail, buses and app-based rides connect districts; allow time for traffic and use trusted transportation after dark.
Getting Around Guadalajara
GETTING AROUND
KEEP EXPLORING
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