The 12 essential things to do in Guadalajara

Visit Guadalajara: What are the best things to do and to see in this folk city of Mexico, nicknamed the "West Pearl"?

Mariachis, Tequila, sombrero... These words speak to you? These are the symbols of Mexico, and more precisely, Guadalajara! This colonial city of more than 4 million inhabitants, the second of the country after Mexico , full of life, color, culture and tradition! In addition to an ideal climate and a warm and welcoming population, the city and its region have many wonders. On the programme: bathing in the Pacific, stuffing on white sand, tasting of tequila and tacos, fiesta or shopping in the busy streets, visit of sumptuous monuments...

One thing is certain, you will have the embarrassment of choice! Are you wondering what to do in Guadalajara? This way.

1. The historic centre

You will fall upon your arrival under the charm of the atmosphere that emerges from the old town, or the historic center of Guadalajara. The colonial architecture of monuments, large animated squares, street vendors, museums, statues... Guaranteed change!

2. Agua Azul Park

Are you going to visit Guadalajara with your children? A council, head south of the Historical Center, towards the Parc d’Agua Azul . Your children and yourself will take their eyes in the orchid greenhouse and the beautiful butterfly poultry! A real treat for the eyes.

3. Lake Chapala

Located less than 50 kilometers south of Guadajara, the Lake Chapala really worth the detour if you ask that to do in Guadalajara. It is the largest lake in Mexico for 80 kilometres and 18 kilometres. Bird watching, boat trip, 2-way tour – Isla Escorpión and Isla Mezcala – hiking, horse riding... Locals like tourists greatly appreciate this magical setting.

4. The International Festival of Mariachi

The city being the cradle of the Mariachis, it offers an annual festival full of music, colour and smile, the first week of September. Moment unforgettable in perspective!

5. The Cathedral of Guadalajara

What are you looking for in Guadalajara? So don’t miss one of the city’s essential and symbolic buildings: Cathedral . Located in the heart of the historic centre, it is often destroyed by nature (fire, earthquake) and rebuilt, but it has always remained a symbol of its elegance and beauty. Vitraux, statutes, crypts and more than 22 bells are enclosed within this spectacular monument.

6. Gastronomy

Holidays in Mexico, of course for gourmets with an extraordinary local gastronomy! Guadalajara is renowned for its quality and finesse! “ Tortas ahogadas "Pozole" " menudo" birria " tacos", "guacamole" and other "enchilladas", tastes anywhere, in street booths, and for nothing at all!

7. L’Hospice Cabañas

He is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, so it is not for nothing! A visit to this building is required if you will visit Guadalajara! Built in the 19th century, it was once intended to collect the orphans and the poorest. In the century after (in 1983), Hospice Cabañas became a cultural institute to promote and disseminate the culture of the State of Jalisco. Various exhibitions of photographs, painting or sculpture are gradually scrolling. It is also famous for the 53 frescoes it contains, painted by José Clemente Orozco between 1937 and 1939.

8. Guadalajara Parks

The city is full of monuments, cathedrals, squares and statues, but also has many green spaces to enjoy a relaxing moment to stroll through these green setting.

You can walk in the very large Parque Morelos ♪ San Francisco Garden after a visit to the church of the same name, or discover the Los Colomos Parque and its beautiful Japanese garden. Many other parks and gardens are to be discovered in this flowery city, which is worth its nickname of the "City of the Roses".

9. Tequila

One of the must-sees in Guadalajara is the visit of a Tequila distillery followed by a tasting. This drink was born in the city of the same name: Tequila only 70 kilometres from Guadalajara. Whether you go by the road or by the train, you will cross the huge blue agave plantations, once used by the Aztecs to produce the "black", an alcoholic drink. And if you are on the spot in early December, don't miss the Feria Nacional del Tequila.

10. La Charreada

What are you still looking for in Guadalajara? Charreada (or Charrería) is the national sport born in Guadalajara, which you must absolutely discover! It is in fact a kind of “Mexican rodeo”, a competition combining speed, style and precision, with, as you will take the habit here, in the background the marriachis. In 2016, the Charreada was listed on the representative list of UNESCO’s intangible cultural heritage.

11. Le Mercado Corona

If you go to the Cathedral of Guadalajara, you will find it not far from there, Mercado Corona a huge shopping center located on a beautiful lively square. Spread in the streets around it, surrounded by orange trees and multicolored houses, which are among the most beautiful in the city.

12. Tlaquepaque and Tonala

The villages Tlaquepaque and Tonala are certainly the most charming in the area, with their colorful little streets, their souvenir and craft shops, their friendly coffee terraces and their delicious restaurants... If you want to bring a little Guadalajara perfume into your suitcases, this is where you have to come!

On the side of Tlaquepaque (15 minutes from the centre of Guadalajara), it is the tradition that welcomes you. Through colonial houses, the pottery, sculptures, blown glass and textiles translate a real know-how to find all over the city through craft shops. Take advantage of Tlaquepaque to visit its museum (Ceramic regional museum), discover its workshop and taste the local cuisine of its popular restaurants such as "Le Parian" , a must-see of the village.

At 30 minutes from Guadalajara, Tonala also offers its lot of surprises and discoveries: its market (Thursday and Sunday), its artisanal and cheap pottery and other small local wonders promise you some unbeatable prices. As in Tlaquepaque, you will be able to visit the garment workshops in Tonala.

How to get to Guadalajara?

Is that it, you decided to go to Guadalajara? Know that there is no direct flight from France. Some flights from Paris include 1 stopover (both 2) and between 10am and 15pm on average (sometimes much more depending on the number of stopovers). As long as you travel, we recommend you take it in advance: the fare side, the prices vary according to the chosen period. So you see, especially via our partner's website Ulysses , what will be the best price according to your departure dates.

The airport of the city, Don Miguel Hidalgo, is located 17 kilometres southeast of the city centre. You can easily reach the latter by taxi, bus, or car rental (about 20 minutes by bus, 10€ by taxi, 1€20 by bus).

Where to stay in Guadalajara?

If you choose to visit Guadalajara, you can read our article on the areas where to stay in Guadalajara . The lower standard of living is quite low, you will find to stay easily, and not much. From the small pension to the great luxury hotels (reasonably accessible even for a medium scholarship), you will find your happiness! For hotels, think to take a look at this site Compare hotels which lists the best offers in this area. If, on the other hand, you are looking for more atypical, more local housing, why not opt for a Airbnb , a youth hostel or stay at home to optimize memories and meetings?

So you still wonder what to do in Guadalajara?