Guadalajara
Overview
Guadalajara, the heart of Mexico's Jalisco region, is a vibrant tapestry of culture and history. Wander its cobblestone streets, marvel at the neoclassical architecture, and immerse yourself in the rich traditions of mariachi music and tequila production. Don't miss the breathtaking beauty of the Hospicio Cabañas and the vibrant atmosphere of the Mercado Libertad.
Best Time to Travel
Best Months
March to May, October to November
During March to May and October to November, Guadalajara enjoys pleasant, warm days with average temperatures in the mid-70s to low 80s Fahrenheit and comfortable evenings. Rainfall is minimal.
Months to Avoid
June to September - rainy season with potential flooding and higher humidity; December to January - can be chilly, especially at night.
Consider visiting during other months
Peak Season
December, Semana Santa (Holy Week), and school holiday periods (July/August)
Expect larger crowds and higher prices
Top Things to Do
Puente Matute Remus
Zoologico Guadalajara
Regional Museum of Guadalajara
Parque Metropolitano de Guadalajara
Catedral Basílica de la Asunción de María Santísima
Parque Morelos
Selva Mágica
Museum of Paleontology Guadalajara
Parque Agua Azul
Parque Villa Fantasía
Parroquia San Pedro Apóstol
Centro Cultural El Refugio
State of Jalisco Government Building
Museo Regional de la Ceramica, Tlaquepaque
Casa ITESO Clavigero
Museo del Periodismo y las Artes Gráficas
Museo del Ejército y Fuerza Aérea
Basílica de Nuestra Señora de Zapopan
MUSA Museum of the Arts University of Guadalajara
San Miguel Tateposco
Hotel Riu Plaza Guadalajara
Grand Fiesta Americana Guadalajara Country Club
Monique
Negocio
Domino's Guadalajara Colón
Punto Sao Paulo
Domino's Guadalajara Chapultepec
La Casa de Doña Inés
Recco
Outback Centro Magno
El Sacromonte
Recommended Hotels
Hotel Demetria
Lafayette
A stunning boutique hotel with modern design and a beautiful courtyard, known for its art collection and tranquil atmosphere.
Hotel Villa Ganz Boutique Hotel
Lafayette
Charming and intimate, this boutique hotel offers personalized service, lush gardens, and a peaceful escape in a historic mansion.
Hyatt Regency Andares Guadalajara
Puerta de Hierro
Modern luxury hotel located in the exclusive Andares shopping district, featuring upscale amenities and stunning city views.
Hotel Velvet Plaza
Chapultepec
A stylish and comfortable mid-range option with a central location, offering modern amenities and a vibrant atmosphere.
Hotel Fénix Guadalajara
Centro Historico
Conveniently located in the city center, this hotel provides comfortable accommodations at an affordable price, perfect for exploring the historic district.
Casa Vilavendrell
Americana
A budget-friendly guesthouse offering simple and clean rooms with a communal kitchen, ideal for budget travelers wanting to experience the local culture.
Recommended Restaurants
Alcalde
Modern Mexican
Lafayette
Innovative Mexican cuisine with a focus on seasonal ingredients and contemporary techniques. Consistently ranked among the best restaurants in Mexico.
La Fonda de la Noche
Local Cuisine
Centro Histórico
A traditional and cozy spot serving classic Guadalajaran dishes like birria and carne en su jugo. Expect generous portions and authentic flavors.
Hueso
Contemporary
Lafayette
Visually stunning restaurant with a unique ambiance and a focus on artful plating. The menu features creative dishes with international influences.
Anita Li
Chinese
Providencia
Upscale Chinese restaurant that serves high quality ingredients that elevate traditional Chinese dishes. Offers a great selection of cocktails and drinks
Suehiro
Japanese
Chapalita
Authentic Japanese cuisine, particularly known for its fresh sushi and sashimi. A great spot for a more upscale Japanese dining experience.
Tacos Providencia
Mexican Street Food
Providencia
Delicious and authentic street tacos, especially known for their carne asada and al pastor. A popular spot for a quick and flavorful meal.
Interesting Facts
Fact 1 - Guadalajara is home to the Hospicio Cabañas, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. While it once served as an orphanage, what's surprising is that its chapel boasts 57 stunning frescoes by José Clemente Orozco, including the iconic 'Man of Fire,' a powerful representation of the human spirit.
Fact 2 - Guadalajara was not founded in its present location. Originally established in 1532, it was moved three times due to hostile indigenous populations before finally settling in the Valle de Atemajac in 1542.
Fact 3 - Guadalajara is a major tech hub known as the 'Mexican Silicon Valley.' It is responsible for a significant portion of Mexico's electronic and software exports, contributing billions of dollars to the national economy annually.
Fact 4 - Guadalajara's Metropolitan Area is the second-largest in Mexico, with over 5 million inhabitants, but surprisingly, its historical center is remarkably walkable and pedestrian-friendly compared to other metropolises of similar size.
Fact 5 - Every year, Guadalajara hosts the International Mariachi Festival, where hundreds of mariachi groups from around the world converge. A unique tradition is the 'Serenata,' where mariachis perform romantic songs under balconies late into the night.
Fact 6 - The Barranca de Huentitán, a massive canyon bordering Guadalajara, is deeper than the Grand Canyon at some points, offering breathtaking views and hiking trails that are surprisingly accessible from the city center.
Fact 7 - Guadalajara is the birthplace of tequila, though the spirit is actually produced in the nearby town of Tequila. Guadalajara heavily influences the tequila industry through its major distilleries and cultural celebrations.
Fact 8 - A popular local legend claims that Guadalajara's main cathedral has two identical towers not because of architectural symmetry but because the architect died before finishing the second one, and another architect attempted to replicate the existing tower without the original plans.