Mexico · City Guide
Guadalajara
Guadalajara is Mexico's second largest city and the cultural capital of the country, birthplace of tequila, mariachi music and the Mexican hat dance, a magnificent colonial city of outstanding architecture, vibrant arts scene, excellent food culture and the stunning Lake Chapala and Ajijic nearby. From the historic Centro and the magnificent Cathedral to the Tlaquepaque arts district and the blue agave fields of Tequila, Guadalajara is one of Mexico's most rewarding and authentic destinations.
Elect's take
"Guadalajara has a Mexican character and cultural pride that I find genuinely compelling. The combination of outstanding colonial architecture, vibrant arts, the birthplace of tequila and mariachi, and an excellent food scene creates a city that rewards discovery."
The historic Centre of Guadalajara is a magnificent ensemble of colonial architecture centred on the magnificent Cathedral and the Degollado Theatre. The Instituto Cultural Cabañas, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, houses extraordinary murals by José Clemente Orozco in a beautiful neoclassical building. Tlaquepaque is a charming artisan district of galleries, craft shops and excellent restaurants in a beautiful colonial setting. The town of Tequila, approximately one hour west, provides outstanding distillery tours of the world-famous spirit in the blue agave landscape that produces it. Lake Chapala is the largest lake in Mexico. The food scene is outstanding — birria, tortas ahogadas and Mexican regional cooking at its finest.
Best time to visit
How to get there
What to expect
Guadalajara Cathedral
A magnificent colonial cathedral at the heart of one of Mexico's finest historic centres.
Instituto Cultural Cabañas
A UNESCO World Heritage Site with extraordinary Orozco murals in a neoclassical building.
Tequila Distillery Tours
The birthplace of tequila with outstanding distillery experiences in blue agave country.
Mariachi Heritage
The birthplace of mariachi music with outstanding live performances across the city.
Tlaquepaque
A charming artisan district of galleries, craft shops and excellent restaurants.
Guadalajara Cuisine
Outstanding birria, tortas ahogadas and the finest expression of Jalisco regional cooking.
