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Guadalajara
Mexico, Central America and the Caribbean · Mexico
Did you know?
- Regional specialties include birria, tortas and tacos.
- The Cabañas Cultural Institute is a UNESCO-listed landmark.
- Horse-drawn sightseeing carriages are called calandrias.
See also
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Tequila
Mexico20.88°N 103.84°W · 1,201 m
Overview
Guadalajara pairs independence-era architecture with a relaxed urban atmosphere. Its walkable center makes exploring the historic streets straightforward.
Languages: Spanish
Why go?
Guadalajara is the capital of Jalisco and Mexico's second-largest city. It has a colonial feel with architecture from the independence period, and a relaxed vibe compared to Mexico City. The city center is walkable and full of attractions.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0
Get around
The Centro is best explored on foot. For longer trips, use the bus, subway, or taxi. Horse-drawn carriages (calandrias) are more expensive and touristy.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0
Getting in
Guadalajara is served by Miguel Hidalgo International Airport (GDL) with flights from major US and Mexican airlines. Long-distance buses arrive at the Central de Autobuses (new bus station) or the Central Vieja (old bus station) from cities like Mexico City (5-6 hours, around M$600-800).
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0
Where to stay
If you plan to spend much time downtown, it's more convenient to stay within walking distance of your daytime activities.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0
Food and drink
Guadalajara has a wide range of restaurants and street vendors, especially for regional specialties like birria, tortas, and tacos. The nightlife is vibrant, especially in Colonia Americana along Avenida Chapultepec. Try traditional tequilas from Los Altos.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0
When to go
The best time to visit is from November to March when the weather is dry and mild. The city hosts several festivals: the International Film Festival in March, the Mariachi Conference in late August, and the massive Guadalajara International Book Fair (FIL) from late November. Avoid the rainy season (June-October) if you want to explore outdoors.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0
Things to do
Attractions include the Cabañas Cultural Institute (UNESCO site), Guadalajara Cathedral, Plaza de los Mariachis, and the Mercado Libertad. Sports fans can catch a football game at Estadio Akron or Estadio Jalisco. Annual events include the Guadalajara Film Festival and the International Book Fair.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0
Stay safe
Guadalajara is one of the safest cities in Mexico, but take usual precautions against purse-snatching. Be alert if someone spills something on you—it may be a distraction. Never carry illegal substances. Dial 911 for emergencies, 078 for roadside assistance.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0
Go next
Popular nearby destinations include Tequila (for distilleries), Guachimontones archaeological site, and Laguna de Chapala.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0
Field guide adapted from Wikivoyage contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0. Text has been adapted and organized for this guide. About our sources.
Places to know
A few starting points from the guide. Check current hours and prices before you go.
- eat
Almacén del Bife
"Beer and wine, our passion" (in translation) is the motto of this Argentinian restaurant in Plaza Andares. In addition, a wide selection of chicken dishes, pastas and a daily seafood special are offered.
Recorded price: M$120-800
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors
- eat
Birrería Las Nueve Esquinas
Well known for its lamb birria, a specialty of Jalisco, this popular place is in an old part of the Centro Histórico called "Las Nueve Esquinas" (Nine Corners), for its unusual street layout.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors
- do
Atlas Country Club
One of the best courses in Guadalajara is an 18-hole course designed by Joe Finger. Caddies are required and visitor greens fees often include the caddie service.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors
- drink
Bar Américas
Popular techno nightclub that doesn't really get rolling until after 2am. Young, trendy crowd.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors
- drink
Barba Negra
Features live rock music.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors
- buy
Centro Magno
Located between Avenidas Vallarta and López Cotilla, the Centro Magno has a big, wide, closed space in the middle, surrounded mostly by restaurants, fashion, electronics and bazaar stores, with a cinema on the top floor. It's served directly by bus routes 629A and 629B, and routes 626, 622, 24, 258 and 101 are also nearby.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors
- drink
Cerveceria Loba
Taproom and craft brewery producing several styles of both ales and lagers with stouts, IPAs, goses, and more.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors
- do
Christmas
A Tapatío Christmas tradition that you may witness if you're in Guadalajara over the holidays is known as "Las Posadas" (The Inns). Children parade through the neighborhood recreating the passage of Joseph and Mary through Bethlehem, asking for shelter and being refused. Generally nowadays this is a celebration for family and friends, but if you know a Mexican, it's a great way to experience Mexican culture firsthand. Regular appearances include piñatas, mariachi bands, Mexican beer, tequila and general merriment.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors
Before you go
Connectivity
Free WiFi is common in hostels, cafes, and some public spaces. Easy to buy a prepaid SIM card (Telcel, Movistar) at stores.
Culture
Guadalajara is the birthplace of mariachi and the Mexican hat dance (jarabe tapatío). Tlaquepaque and Tonalá are for handicrafts.
Emergency
Dial 911 for all emergencies.
Food
Street food specialties include birria, tortas, and tacos.
Health
Tap water is not safe to drink; buy bottled water. Street food is generally safe but choose busy stalls.
Local transport
Metro lines 1, 2, and 3 cover the city. Buses are cheap but confusing; use Google Maps or ask locals. Uber is plentiful and safe.
Money
ATMs are available in centro and Americana district.
Safety
Guadalajara is known as one of the safest cities in Mexico, but beware of purse-snatching.
Transport
Walking is best in Centro; bus, subway, and taxi for longer trips.
Visa context
Visa rules depend on passport; check current entry rules before booking.