San Juan de los Lagos

Day Trips

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at a local café, savoring traditional Mexican dishes like chilaquiles or huevos rancheros. After breakfast, take a leisurely stroll through the Historic Center, admiring the stunning architecture of the Basilica de San Juan de los Lagos. Stop by the vibrant local market to experience the lively atmosphere and perhaps pick up some handmade crafts.

Visit the iconic Basilica, where you can reflect on its rich history and the significance it holds for pilgrims. Enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant, sampling regional specialties such as birria or pozole. Spend the afternoon exploring the nearby plazas, where you can relax on a bench and watch local life unfold around you.

As the sun begins to set, head to a local taqueria for a casual dinner, tasting some of the best tacos al pastor in town. After dinner, take a walk through the illuminated streets, soaking in the charm of the town as night falls. Conclude your day with a visit to a local bar or café, enjoying live music and mingling with friendly locals.

Begin your day early with a heartfelt visit to the Basilica de San Juan de los Lagos, known for its miraculous statue of Our Lady of San Juan. Participate in the morning mass, where you can join local worshippers in prayer and reflection. After mass, take a moment to explore the serene gardens surrounding the basilica.

Enjoy a traditional lunch at a nearby eatery, where you can try local specialties and recharge for the afternoon ahead. Spend your afternoon visiting the nearby Museum of the Basilica, which houses fascinating artifacts and historical insights about the town's religious significance. Take a moment to sit in the peaceful courtyard, absorbing the spiritual energy of the place.

As evening approaches, attend a special evening mass at the Basilica, where the atmosphere is filled with devotion and community spirit. After mass, wander through the town to experience the vibrant evening activities, with locals gathering in the plazas. Finish your day with a delicious dessert from a local bakery, such as a traditional flan or tres leches cake.

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local market, where you can enjoy freshly made tortillas and local salsas. After breakfast, dive into the bustling market scene, interacting with vendors and sampling fresh fruits and homemade snacks. Take your time to browse through handcrafted goods, from textiles to pottery.

For lunch, grab a bite at a food stall, indulging in authentic Mexican street food such as tamales or elote. Spend your afternoon visiting various artisan shops, where you can find unique souvenirs and learn about traditional crafts from local artisans. Don't forget to capture the vibrant colors and lively atmosphere with your camera.

As the sun sets, return to the main square for a lively evening filled with music and dance performances by local artists. Enjoy dinner at a restaurant overlooking the plaza, relishing the view as the night comes alive. Conclude your evening with a leisurely stroll through the illuminated streets, appreciating the charm of San Juan de los Lagos at night.

Begin your adventure with a hearty breakfast at your hotel, fueling up for a day of exploration in the Sierra de San Juan. After breakfast, set off on a guided hike through the lush trails, surrounded by breathtaking scenery and diverse wildlife. Enjoy a mid-morning snack while taking in panoramic views of the valleys below.

After your hike, enjoy a picnic lunch in a scenic spot nestled within the mountains, surrounded by nature’s tranquility. Spend the afternoon exploring nearby waterfalls, where you can cool off and enjoy a refreshing swim. Capture the beauty of the landscape with photos, cherishing the memories of your outdoor adventure.

Return to town in the evening, where you can unwind with a relaxing dinner at a local restaurant. Try a specialty dish such as grilled fish or carne asada, paired with a refreshing drink. End your day by watching the sunset from a scenic overlook, reflecting on the day's adventures in nature.

Start your day with coffee and pastries at a quaint café before heading to the Museo de Arte Sacro. Spend your morning admiring the stunning collection of religious art and artifacts that highlight the town's rich history. Engage with the knowledgeable staff, who can provide insights and stories about each piece.

For lunch, choose a nearby restaurant that offers traditional dishes, enjoying the flavors of the region. Afterward, visit the Museo Regional de San Juan, where you can explore exhibits showcasing local history and culture. Spend some time in the museum's gardens, reflecting on the stories of the past.

As evening falls, enjoy a leisurely dinner at a rooftop restaurant with views of the Basilica. Savor dishes that incorporate local ingredients, allowing you to experience the flavors of the region. Finish your day with a night stroll, absorbing the ambiance of the town illuminated under the stars.

Begin your day with a visit to a local market, where you will gather fresh ingredients for your cooking class. Engage with local vendors, learning about the various spices and produce that are staples in Mexican cuisine. After shopping, head to the cooking school, where you'll meet your instructor and prepare for an immersive culinary experience.

During the class, learn to prepare traditional dishes like mole or tamales, guided by an expert chef who shares family recipes and cooking techniques. Enjoy the meal you prepared for lunch, savoring the fruits of your labor alongside fellow participants. Exchange stories and experiences over the delicious food you created together.

After the cooking class, spend your evening at a local restaurant where you can showcase your newfound culinary skills by ordering similar dishes. Pair your meal with a refreshing drink, such as horchata or a local beer. Conclude your day by enjoying a live cooking demonstration or a cultural performance at the restaurant.

Take a short trip to Lake Chapala, where you can enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a lakeside café. Savor the peaceful views of the lake, with its serene waters and surrounding mountains setting a tranquil scene. After breakfast, stroll along the lakeshore, taking in the fresh air and beautiful scenery.

Enjoy a relaxing afternoon by renting a kayak or paddleboat, exploring the tranquil waters of the lake at your own pace. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy on the boat or at one of the lakeside parks, surrounded by nature. Spend some time birdwatching or simply soaking in the sun by the water.

As the sun begins to set, return to shore and find a cozy spot for dinner at a lakeside restaurant, where you can enjoy fresh fish and local specialties. Experience the vibrant sunset over the lake, creating a picturesque backdrop for your evening. Wrap up your day with a leisurely walk along the waterfront, appreciating the beauty of Lake Chapala.

Kick off your day at a local fiesta, where you can immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of San Juan de los Lagos. Enjoy breakfast at a food stall, trying local delights such as quesadillas or churros. Participate in traditional games and activities that are part of the fiesta, engaging with locals and other visitors.

Continue enjoying the festivities with live music, dance performances, and arts and crafts stalls showcasing local artisans. For lunch, sample an array of street foods, allowing your taste buds to explore the diverse flavors of Mexican cuisine. Spend the afternoon joining in the dance and cultural workshops offered during the celebration.

As the fiesta culminates, gather with the community in the main square for a spectacular evening concert featuring local bands. Enjoy dinner from one of the many food vendors, savoring the lively atmosphere as the night unfolds. End the evening by watching a fireworks display, celebrating the vibrant spirit of San Juan de los Lagos.

Set out for a day trip to nearby towns like San Miguel el Alto or Tepatitlán, each with their own unique charm and traditions. Enjoy breakfast at a local café in San Miguel el Alto, sampling regional specialties that reflect the area's culinary heritage. After breakfast, explore the town’s historic buildings and charming streets.

Visit local artisan workshops, where you can see traditional crafts such as pottery or weaving being made by skilled hands. For lunch, dine at a local eatery, enjoying dishes that highlight the flavors of the area. Spend the afternoon exploring local markets, picking up unique souvenirs and interacting with friendly locals.

Return to San Juan de los Lagos in the evening, where you can relax with dinner at a local restaurant. Reflect on your day of exploration and the rich traditions you encountered in nearby towns. Conclude your trip with a final stroll through San Juan de los Lagos, appreciating the memories you've created.