Things To Do
in Guadalajara
Guadalajara blends colonial architecture with a dynamic arts scene in Jalisco's capital. Its plazas, churches, and vibrant neighborhoods pulse with mariachi traditions, markets, and modern cafes. The city is renowned for birria, tortas ahogadas, pozole, and craft beverages sourced from nearby regions.
With day trips to Tequila and the Lake Chapala region, Guadalajara offers culture, cuisine, and warm hospitality in abundance.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the majestic Guadalajara Cathedral, where you can admire its stunning neo-Gothic architecture. Wander through the vibrant Plaza de Armas, soaking in the atmosphere while enjoying a local breakfast of tortas ahogadas from a nearby stall. Don't forget to take a moment to appreciate the intricate murals in the nearby Teatro Degollado before heading to your next adventure.
In the afternoon, explore the colorful Mercado San Juan de Dios, where you can find a plethora of local crafts, fresh produce, and delicious street food. After shopping, stroll through the serene Parque Agua Azul, where you can relax by the beautiful fountains and enjoy the lush greenery. Visit the nearby Museo de las Artes, showcasing contemporary art exhibits that reflect the rich culture of Jalisco.
As the sun sets, head to the lively Chapultepec Avenue for a taste of Guadalajara's nightlife. Dine at a traditional restaurant, savoring local specialties such as birria or pozole, while absorbing the vibrant atmosphere. After dinner, enjoy live music at one of the many bars or cafes lining the street, immersing yourself in the local sounds.
Start your culinary journey with a traditional Mexican breakfast at a local fonda, trying dishes like chilaquiles or huevos rancheros. After breakfast, visit the famous Mercado de Abastos, where you can see the hustle and bustle of locals shopping for fresh ingredients. Take a moment to chat with vendors and learn about the local spices and produce unique to the region.
In the afternoon, participate in a cooking class where you can learn how to prepare authentic Jalisco dishes like birria or tortas ahogadas. Engage with a local chef, who will share their secrets and techniques, making the experience both educational and fun. Afterwards, enjoy the fruits of your labor with a communal lunch with your classmates.
For dinner, head to a local restaurant specializing in traditional Mexican fare, where you can sample various regional dishes. Pair your meal with a glass of tequila or mezcal, learning about the distillation process from the staff. End your evening with a stroll through the illuminated streets, taking in the vibrant atmosphere of Guadalajara at night.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $7-12 |
| 🥗Meal for 2 at mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $2-4 |
| 🚌One-way local transport | $0.75-1.50 |
| 🏠Monthly rent for 1BR city center | $500-900 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Vibrant culture and warm hospitality
- Outstanding regional cuisine and approachable price point
- Traffic can be heavy in peak hours
- Some tourist areas are crowded and can be overwhelming
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "La cuenta, por favor" - The check, please
- "¿Aceptan tarjetas?" - Do you accept cards?
Places to Visit in Guadalajara
Visit one of these nice places.
A UNESCO-listed former hospital with José Clemente Orozco murals; dramatic interior spaces and stairwells provide striking photo opportunities.
Imposing neo-Gothic exterior and ornate interior; best light is early morning or golden hour for color and shadows.
Elegant neoclassical theatre in the heart of Centro; capture its façade and the plaza’s activity, especially at dusk.
Colorful colonial façades, live street scenes, and fountains create dynamic street photography settings.
Lined with vibrant architecture and craft storefronts; great for architectural details and candid street photography.
A short trip away, its bright tiles and artisan shops offer quintessential Mexican photogenic backdrops.
Food in Guadalajara
Guadalajara Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A richly spiced goat meat stew served with its consommé and warm tortillas; best enjoyed with a side of chopped onions and cilantro.
Must-Try!
A pork-filled sandwich drowning in a spicy tomato-chile sauce, typically served with pickled jalapeños and onions.
A hominy-based stew with pork, herbs, and toppings like cabbage, radish, oregano, and lime.
A hearty beef stew with bacon, usually served with beans and warm tortillas.
A fermented corn beverage, often served with lime and a sprinkle of lime salt; refreshing on hot days.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
One of the largest markets in the city, offering vast stalls of produce, meat, prepared foods, and snacks—great for tasting birria, tortas, aguas frescas, and sweet treats.
A bustling wholesale-and-retail market where you can sample regional ingredients and pick up fresh produce for cooking at your accommodation.
Street stalls around Plaza de Armas and nearby streets serve quesadillas, tacos, elotes, esquites, churros, and other quick bites—perfect for a snack on the go.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly hello or buenos días is appreciated; a handshake is common in formal settings, while a cheek kiss is less typical in Guadalajara than in some other parts of Latin America.
Moderate, clean attire in churches and historic sites; avoid loud behavior in religious spaces and show respect at all times.
Prices are usually fixed in major markets but can be negotiated in smaller stalls; do so politely and with a smile.
Safety
Tipping in Guadalajara
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a 10-15% tip is customary if a service charge isn’t included. For taxis and hotel staff, tips of small bills are appreciated. Street vendors rarely expect tips, but rounding up is common for good service.
Cash (Mexican pesos) is widely accepted, as are major credit and debit cards. Many places also accept mobile payments; always carry some cash for markets and street vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days and blooming Jacaranda trees; comfortable for walking tours and outdoor markets.
Warm to hot days with higher humidity; afternoon storms are common; plan morning or evening outdoor activities and stay hydrated.
Pleasant temperatures with less rain; ideal for strolling old neighborhoods and sipping coffee on shaded patios.
Milder cool days; occasional chilly mornings. Layered clothing helps; the city feels calm and less crowded.
Guadalajara at Night
Hiking in Guadalajara
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Rugged canyon with trails and city views; best with proper footwear and water.
Forested trails along the river offering a more relaxed outdoor experience.
Extensive nature reserve with diverse trails and wildlife; a popular day trip for locals and visitors.
Airports
How to reach Guadalajara by plane.
Main gateway to Guadalajara; well-connected to the city by car, rideshare, and airport shuttles; serves international and domestic flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly mestizo with a strong regional identity tied to Jalisco's heritage.
A large student population thanks to major universities and technical institutes in the area.
Growing presence attracted by culture, cuisine, and accessibility to nearby tequila towns and Lake Chapala.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Chivas de Guadalajara is the iconic team with deep local support and a lively match atmosphere.
Popular spectator sports with local clubs and touring athletes occasionally visiting.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Guadalajara.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes can be adjusted to vegetarian options; look for beans, corn tortillas, cheese, and vegetables. Ask for no meat-based bases or broths; request oil-free or butter-free preparations when possible.
Seek dishes built on beans, rice, vegetables, and avocado; verify that broths and toppings are meat-free. Mexican sauces and salsas can be vegan, but check for lard or animal-based additives.