Guadalajara- the best itinerary to one of the largest mexican cities

19.07.2021.

The capital of mexican state Jalisco, Guadalajara is the second largest city of Mexico. This cultural hub is surrounded by two defining mexican items- tequila and mariachi. Lake Chapala which is only one hour away is the source of its touristic existence as one of the largest mexican lakes.

What to do

• Exploring the Historical Centre

Filled with elegant buildings, amazing cathedrals, stunning street art you can even get the feeling of Vienna here. Seeing wonderful carriages at the tree-lined alleys will be a surprising fact.

Plaza de Armas is surrounded by the Guadalajara Cathedral and amazing starting point. The best place to observe the life of Guadalajara is at the nearby Liberation Square.

Free Walking Tour will enrich your soul with local tips and easiness of navigation. At the first hostel of mine we had a spontaneous walking day with our lovely locals. The second hostel was pretty in the centre, near Plaza de Armas so it was much easier to notice the best sights.

Visiting the Government Palace should be included in your itinerary as its interior amazes.

Teatro Degallado is one of the most elegant buildings, its interior and murals are specially fascinating.

•  Visiting Tlaquepaque

This is almost like the town itself known by its authentic vibe and unique souvenirs, located at the suburbs of Guadalajara. Its colourful streets will give you the best insight into the local, hand-painted pottery.

The name itself signifies „the place above clay land“ in Nahuatl language. Mercado de Artesanias is the most appropriate starting point with the richest offer.

How to come to Tlaquepaque?

The cheapest way is by train, to be precise Sitren Linea 3 which hould take around 40 minutes costing about 1$.

Otherwise, it can be visited by Uber or taxi within 10 minutes.

Unfortunately, I haven’t been.

• Mercado Liberdad

Mercado Liberdad is a large market located in the centre of Guadalajara, near the Theatre building. Amazing choice for every taste will reach its highlight at the cheap lunch or dinner ideas. Don’t confuse it with Mercado Corona.

• Day trip to Lake Chapala

Though not designed for swimming, the lake is a wnscharming stroll specially popular by its food. As it’s very shallow, swimming is not recommending but relaxing vibe will take you to the picturesque towns like Ajijic and Chapala town.

• Day trip to Tequila

I wrote a special blog post about the day trip to the lovely Tequila and its agave fields. It’s only one hour away from Guadalajara but this colourful town certainly deserves few days to spend at.

• Other day trips

Guachimontones Pyramids

About 45 minutes away from Guadalajara this amazing archeological site shows the Teuchitlan tradition. The circular pyramids characterize this fantastic place.

Bosque de la Primavera

At the outskirts of Guadalajara this is a place where wild life bursts with its animals, plants and waterfalls.

Lagos de Moreno

This lovely magical town is located about two hours from Guadalajara. It covers the huge cultural heritage as it’s home to the historical mexican writers, many buildings are also announced as UNESCO Cultural Heritage Sites.

Tonala- this lovely town at the outskirts of Guadalajara is known for its ceramics and craft industry;

Puerto Valarta is a seaside town, only 5 hours away. If you have a chance explore the magic town of Sierra Madre like Talpalpa or Mascota.

•  Festivals of Guadalajara

As the second largest city of Mexico Guadalajara is burstling with events, cultural life will cover your interest whenever you come.

International Mariachi Festival at the end of August is one of the most famous and respectable festivals. Many free concerts on the streets and gala performance at the theatre will be included.

• Green spots

Visiting the Gardens in Parque Colomos

Lovely park full of charming lakes and decor is placed a bit outside of the city centre. Impressive Japanese Gardens will totally transfer the feeling of Japan.

Panteon de Belen

It’s actually a historic cemetery functioning as a museum. Egyptian chapel is specially charming at this place of legendary figures.

Hiking at Parque Mirador

Just outside the city centre where the refreshing air can be caught Parque Mirador is placed with amazing canyon views. The best way to get there is by Uber as the public transportation is pretty difficult.

Conclusion

Guadalajara may not be as colourful as the other mexican places but it bursts with elegant and historical architecture. This cozy city is the treasure of discoveries covering pretty towns and nature escapes within an easy distance. The car free Sundays add to the atmosphere of the relaxing vibe.

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