Best Things to Do in Guadalajara

Planning a trip to the Jalisco capital? These are the very best things to do in Guadalajara, Mexico.

Living in Jalisco, I’ve come to appreciate Guadalajara as one of Mexico’s most exciting yet underrated cities. While many travelers head straight for Mexico City or the beaches of the Pacific coast, Guadalajara, Jalisco’s capital offers a rich mix of colonial architecture, world-class food, vibrant arts, mariachi music, and some of the country’s coolest neighborhoods—all without the overwhelming scale of the capital.

As the birthplace of both mariachi and tequila, Guadalajara is deeply rooted in Mexican culture, yet it also feels refreshingly modern. From specialty coffee shops and innovative restaurants to leafy boulevards and thriving creative districts, it’s a city that’s easy to fall in love with.

After spending years exploring Guadalajara and returning regularly from my home in Puerto Vallarta, I’ve put together this guide to the very best things to do in Guadalajara, including tips and the day trips that are absolutely worth your time.

Plan Your Trip: To help you plan the rest of your trip, I’ve also put together detailed guides on where to stay in Guadalajara, breaking down the city’s best neighborhoods and boutique hotels, as well as my guide to the best restaurants in Guadalajara, featuring all the best fine dining spots and local spots from the years I spent living in the city. Together, they’ll help you plan an unforgettable stay in one of Mexico’s most exciting destinations.

How to Get to Guadalajara

Guadalajara is one of Mexico’s best-connected cities, so it’s an easy destination to reach, whether you’re arriving from overseas or exploring more of the country.

If you’re flying in, you’ll arrive at Guadalajara International Airport (Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla International Airport), around 30 minutes south of the historic center. There are direct flights from many major cities across the United States, including Los Angeles, Dallas, Houston, Chicago, San Francisco and Atlanta, as well as regular connections from Canada and cities throughout Mexico.

From the airport, the easiest way into the city is by Uber, which is reliable and significantly cheaper than airport taxis. Official airport taxis are also available if you prefer. If you prefer even less hassle and Spanish isn’t your forte, I recommend a pre-booked airport transfer you can book through Welcome Pickups.

If you’re staying in neighborhoods such as Colonia Americana, Lafayette or Providencia, expect the journey to take around 25 to 40 minutes depending on traffic.

Guadalajara is also well connected by long-distance buses. Luxury coach companies such as Primera Plus and ETN offer comfortable services from destinations including Mexico City, Guanajuato, San Miguel de Allende, Puerto Vallarta and Morelia. Buses are modern, air-conditioned and often have reclining seats, making them a surprisingly pleasant way to travel around central Mexico.

If you’re already road-tripping through Mexico, Guadalajara is linked by well-maintained toll highways. The drive from Puerto Vallarta takes around five hours, while Mexico City is roughly six to seven hours away. Just remember to budget for Mexico’s toll roads, which are generally in excellent condition.

Getting Around Guadalajara

Uber is the easiest option. It’s affordable, widely available, and far simpler than navigating unfamiliar bus routes, especially at night.

I use Uber regularly when in Guadalajara and have found it reliable across most central neighborhoods. Journeys between Colonia Americana, Centro Histórico, Providencia, and Zapopan are usually straightforward, although traffic can slow things down considerably during rush hour.

Central neighborhoods are reasonably walkable once you’re there. Colonia Americana, Lafayette, and parts of Centro are best explored on foot, especially when you’re moving between cafés, galleries, and restaurants. I’d avoid walking long distances between neighborhoods, though. The distances are often greater than they appear on a map.

16 Best Things to Do in Guadalajara, Mexico

1. Visit the Sights off Guadalajara’s Central Square

If it’s your first time in Guadalajara, this is where I’d start. The city’s historic center is compact, lively, and packed with beautiful colonial architecture. Within just a couple of blocks of Plaza de Armas, historic Guadalajara’s central square, you’ll find many of Guadalajara’s most important cultural landmarks, making it easy to spend half a day wandering between them.

Take your time here. Step inside churches, admire the grand plazas, duck into museums and soak up the atmosphere from one of the shaded benches. It’s one of the best introductions to the city’s history and character.

The main sights around Plaza de Armas include:

Before you leave the area, head up to the bar at the DoubleTree by Hilton Guadalajara Centro Histórico. It’s one of my favorite viewpoints in the city, with fantastic panoramic views over Plaza de Armas, Guadalajara Cathedral and the rooftops of the historic center. I recommend timing your visit for sunset or staying into the evening when the cathedral is beautifully illuminated.

2. See a Show at Teatro Degollado

One of Guadalajara’s architectural highlights, Teatro Degollado is a beautiful 19th-century theater known for its neoclassical façade, grand interior, and magnificent frescoed ceiling. It’s home to the Jalisco Philharmonic Orchestra and hosts opera, ballet, classical concerts, and other live performances.

If you can, I’d recommend booking an evening show. It’s one of the best ways to experience Guadalajara’s cultural scene, and the theater is just as impressive inside as it is from the outside.

3. Visit Mercado Libertad – San Juan de Dios

One of the largest indoor markets in Latin America, Mercado Libertad, better known as San Juan de Dios, is a Guadalajara institution. Spread across three levels, it’s packed with food stalls, leather goods, handicrafts, clothing, sweets, and just about anything else you can imagine.

I recommend coming hungry. Grab a torta ahogada, a serving of birria or simply wander through the maze of vendors soaking up the atmosphere. Even if you don’t buy anything, it’s one of the city’s most authentic and energetic places to experience local life.

Mexican markets can be intense, and this one is no exception. If it’s your first visit, I’d recommend exploring with a local guide who can introduce you to the best food stalls and share the market’s history. Also, keep a close eye on your belongings, as the busy crowds can attract pickpockets.

4. Visit Museo Cabañas (previously Hospicio Cabañas)

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Museo Cabañas is one of Guadalajara’s must-visit cultural attractions. Originally built as an orphanage and hospital in the early 19th century, today it houses exhibitions of Mexican art, but it’s most famous for the breathtaking murals by José Clemente Orozco.

Even if you’re not usually drawn to art museums, I’d recommend visiting. Orozco’s powerful frescoes, especially The Man of Fire beneath the central dome, are among the greatest mural works in Mexico and make this one of the city’s most memorable cultural experiences. The building itself, with its elegant courtyards and neoclassical architecture, is equally worth taking a wander through.

5. Visit the Ex Convento del Carmen

Just a short walk from the historic center, Ex Convento del Carmen is a beautifully preserved former Carmelite convent that now serves as one of Guadalajara’s leading cultural spaces. The historic building hosts rotating contemporary art exhibitions, photography shows, and cultural events throughout the year.

I always enjoy stopping in to see what’s on. Entry is usually free, and it’s a peaceful place to escape the bustle of the city while discovering work by local and national artists.

6. Browse Local Art at MUSA Museum of the Arts University of Guadalajara

If you enjoy contemporary art, make time for the MUSA (Museum of the Arts of the University of Guadalajara). The museum showcases an excellent program of rotating exhibitions featuring Mexican and international artists, with a particular focus on contemporary work.

I think it’s one of Guadalajara’s most underrated museums. Even better, admission is free. Before you leave, don’t miss another of José Clemente Orozco’s striking murals, The People and Their False Leaders, painted above the main staircase and one of the museum’s standout pieces.

7. Visit Parroquia El Expiatorio Eucarístico

One of Guadalajara’s most beautiful churches, Parroquia El Expiatorio Eucarístico is hard to miss with its soaring neo-Gothic spires and intricate stone façade. Step inside to admire the colorful stained-glass windows, ornate interior and peaceful atmosphere.

I recommend visiting in the evening when the church is beautifully illuminated and the surrounding square comes alive with street food vendors, musicians and locals gathering after work. It’s one of my favorite spots in the city to simply sit and soak up the atmosphere.

8. Relax in Nature at Bosque Los Colomos

If you need a break from Guadalajara’s busy streets, head to Bosque Los Colomos, one of the city’s most beautiful green spaces and one of the best local things to do in Guadalajara. Spanning more than 90 hectares on the edge of Guadalajara and Zapopan, it’s a favorite with locals for morning walks, runs, and weekend picnics.

I love coming here for a slower pace. Wander the shaded trails, look out for squirrels and birdlife, visit the peaceful Japanese Garden, or simply grab a coffee and enjoy a couple of hours surrounded by nature. If you’re spending several days in Guadalajara, it’s a refreshing change of scenery and one of the best places to experience everyday local life away from the tourist sights.

9. Wander Chapultepec Avenue

For a taste of Guadalajara beyond its historic landmarks, head to Avenida Chapultepec. This broad, tree-lined avenue is one of the city’s main social hubs, where locals come to meet friends, linger over coffee, enjoy dinner or head out for drinks.

There are plenty of excellent cafés, cocktail bars and restaurants, and on weekends the central promenade fills with artisan markets, food stalls and live music. It’s one of the best places to experience the city’s creative, youthful energy.

10. Explore the Food and Cafe Scene in Colonia Americana

If there’s one neighborhood I always recommend friends spend time in, it’s Colonia Americana. Frequently ranked among the world’s coolest neighborhoods, it’s the creative heart of Guadalajara and home to some of the city’s best cafés, restaurants, hotels, cocktail bars, and independent boutiques.

This is where I spent most of my time while in Guadalajara. I’d often start the morning with specialty coffee, wander the leafy streets, pop into galleries and design stores, then stay into the evening for dinner and drinks. It’s a neighborhood that’s best explored without a plan.

You’ll find everything here from outstanding brunch spots and third-wave coffee roasters to inventive Mexican restaurants and natural wine bars. I recommend setting aside at least half a day, although it’s just as easy to spend an entire day here.

Make sure to read The Best Restaurants in Guadalajara to discover where and what to eat in the city.

11. Watch Charreria

Jalisco is the birthplace of charrería, Mexico’s national sport, and watching a charreada is one of the most authentic cultural experiences you can have in Guadalajara. Taking place in a lienzo charro (a traditional rodeo arena), these events showcase incredible displays of horsemanship, roping skills, and long-standing ranching traditions.

Even if you’re not usually interested in equestrian sports, I’d recommend going. It’s a fascinating insight into an important part of Mexican culture that’s deeply rooted in the state of Jalisco. Lienzo Charro de Jalisco is the best place to experience it, hosting regular charreadas throughout the year, but particularly on Sundays.

Pair it with a traditional meal and some mariachi afterwards for a classic Guadalajara experience.

12. Experience a Guadalajara Festival

Guadalajara knows how to celebrate. If you can time your visit with one of the city’s major festivals, you’ll experience an entirely different side of the city, with streets filled with music, performances, and an infectious atmosphere.

Some of the biggest festivals over the year include:

• International Mariachi and Charrería Festival (late August–early September) – The city’s signature event, celebrating Jalisco’s two greatest traditions with mariachi performances, parades and charreadas across the city.
• Fiestas de Octubre (October) – A month-long celebration featuring concerts, cultural performances, artisan markets, amusement rides and food stalls throughout Guadalajara.
• Guadalajara International Book Fair (late November–early December) – The largest Spanish-language book fair in the world, attracting renowned authors, publishers and literary events from across the globe.
• Guadalajara International Film Festival (April) – One of Latin America’s most important film festivals, showcasing the best of Mexican and Ibero-American cinema alongside premieres, talks and special events.
• Festival Cultural de Mayo (May) – A citywide celebration of music, dance, theater and visual arts, with performances taking place in venues and public spaces across Guadalajara.

13. Visit Tlaquepaque Pueblo Magico

Just 20 minutes from central Guadalajara, Tlaquepaque is one of my favorite day trips from the city center. Designated a Pueblo Mágico in 2018, it’s the artistic soul of Jalisco, with colorful colonial streets lined by galleries, artisan workshops, and some of Mexico’s finest ceramics, blown glass and handcrafted furniture.

You’ll find the full guide to Tlaquepaque here, but in the meantime, here are some of the best things to do while you’re there:

• Wander Andador Independencia, the pedestrian street at the heart of Tlaquepaque, lined with boutiques, galleries and artisan workshops. Stop at Galería Cempasúchil, for homewares.
• Browse the Museo Regional de la Cerámica to learn about the area’s centuries-old pottery tradition.
• Visit Galería Sergio Bustamante to admire the surreal sculptures and whimsical creations of one of Mexico’s best-known contemporary artists. Even if you’re not planning to buy anything, it’s one of the town’s must-see stops.
• Explore Centro Cultural El Refugio, a beautifully restored former hospital that now hosts art exhibitions and cultural events.
• Relax in Jardín Hidalgo and admire the beautiful Parroquia de San Pedro Apóstol overlooking the square.
• Finish with lunch or a tequila at El Parián, Mexico’s largest cantina, where live mariachi performances create one of the liveliest atmospheres in Jalisco.

Read more: The Complete Guide to Tlaquepaque, Jalisco

Day Trips from Guadalajara, Mexico

14. Tequila

Just an hour from Guadalajara, Tequila is one of the easiest and most rewarding day trips you can take. Surrounded by the blue agave fields that blanket the landscape, this colorful pueblo mágico is the birthplace of Mexico’s most famous spirit and sits within a UNESCO World Heritage-listed agave region.

While wandering the cobbled streets and sampling tequila is reason enough to visit, I’d highly recommend touring La Rojeña Distillery, the oldest tequila distillery in Latin America and the home of José Cuervo. The guided tour takes you through the tequila-making process, from harvesting agave to distillation, before finishing with a tasting of several expressions.

For the full experience, book tickets on the José Cuervo Express, which journeys from Guadalajara through the agave fields to Tequila while serving tequila tastings and cocktails onboard before arriving at the distillery. The train typically operates on Saturdays and sells out well in advance, so I’d recommend booking your tickets several months ahead.

Although it’s an easy day trip, I actually recommend staying overnight if you can. Matices Hotel de Barricas is one of Mexico’s most unique hotels, where you can sleep inside barrel-shaped rooms surrounded by agave fields—an unforgettable way to round off your visit.

15. Lake Chapala & Ajijic

Less than an hour from Guadalajara, Lake Chapala makes for one of the city’s most relaxing day trips. As Mexico’s largest freshwater lake, it’s a world away from the bustle of Guadalajara, with lakeside promenades, mountain views and a noticeably slower pace of life.

While you can visit in a day, I’d recommend staying overnight if your itinerary allows. Spend time exploring Ajijic, the lake’s most charming town, known for its colorful streets, vibrant art scene, boutiques, and excellent cafés and restaurants. Wander the malecón, browse local galleries, and soak up the laid-back atmosphere that has attracted artists and creatives for decades.

If you have a little more time, venture beyond Ajijic to nearby villages around the lake and enjoy a boat trip on the water. For an overnight stay, I highly recommend Nimue Marina Residence & Hotel Boutique. Set right on the lake with stylish suites, a private beach club, marina and spa, it’s one of the best places to experience the peaceful side of Lake Chapala and makes a fantastic base for exploring the region.

16. Explore the Guachimontones Archaeological Site

Around an hour west of Guadalajara, Guachimontones is one of Mexico’s most underrated archaeological sites. Built by the ancient Teuchitlán culture over 2,000 years ago, it’s famous for its unique circular stepped pyramids—found nowhere else in Mesoamerica—and forms part of the UNESCO-listed Agave Landscape. The site is compact and easy to explore in a couple of hours, with panoramic views over the Tequila Valley.

I’d recommend stopping by the Phil Weigand Interpretive Center before or after your visit to better understand the history of the site. You can easily visit Guachimontones as a half-day trip from Guadalajara or combine it with lunch in nearby Teuchitlán or a visit to Tequila for a full day out.

Best Time to Visit Guadalajara

Guadalajara is a year-round destination thanks to its mild climate, but I think the best time to visit is between October and May. During these months, you’ll enjoy warm, sunny days, cooler evenings, and very little rain, making it ideal for exploring the city on foot and taking day trips to places like Tequila and Lake Chapala.

If you’re hoping to experience the city at its liveliest, plan your visit for late August or early September during the International Mariachi and Charrería Festival, or in October for the month-long Fiestas de Octubre. The summer months (June to September) are warmer and bring afternoon showers, but they’re usually short-lived and rarely disrupt sightseeing for long.

Practical Tips for Visiting Guadalajara

Some top tips to keep in mind when planning your trip and on th ground:

Learn a few basic Spanish phrases – English isn’t widely spoken outside hotels and some tourist attractions. Even simple phrases like buenos días, gracias and ¿cuánto cuesta? go a long way and are always appreciated.

Keep an eye on your belongings – Guadalajara is generally a safe city to visit, but like any large city, pickpocketing can happen in busy areas such as Centro Histórico, markets and on public transport. Keep valuables out of sight.

Use Uber to get around – It’s affordable, reliable, and the easiest way to travel between neighborhoods. I rarely found a need to rent a car while living in the city.

Take advantage of the mild evenings – Guadalajara cools down nicely after sunset, making evenings the perfect time to enjoy rooftop bars, outdoor dining and a stroll through neighborhoods like Colonia Americana.

Carry cash as well as a card – Most restaurants and hotels accept cards, but smaller taquerias, markets and independent shops often prefer cash.

Give yourself at least three days – While you can see the highlights in a weekend, I’d recommend spending three to four days in Guadalajara. That gives you enough time to explore the city’s neighborhoods while fitting in a day trip to places like Tequila, Lake Chapala or Tlaquepaque.

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