Guadalajara, the capital of the state of Jalisco in Mexico, is a vibrant city full of history, culture and traditions. If you are lucky enough to spend a holiday in this city, there are a wide variety of activities and places you can explore.
1. Explore the Historic Center
The heart of Guadalajara is its Historic Center, where you can find an impressive mix of colonial architecture, museums, plazas and monuments. Start your day with a stroll through the Plaza de Armas, the perfect place to admire the Government Palace, a building dating back to the 18th century and home to murals by José Clemente Orozco, one of the three great Mexican muralists.
Right next door, you'll find the Guadalajara Cathedral, an icon of the city with its neo-Gothic architecture and unmistakable twin towers. The cathedral is a religious and cultural symbol, and its interior houses religious artwork and gilded altars.
From there, head to the Teatro Degollado, one of the oldest and most prestigious theaters in Mexico. With its impressive neoclassical façade and luxurious interior, the theater is a must-see for lovers of the performing arts. If you're lucky, there might be a special performance or event on your holiday.
2. Visit the Cabañas Cultural Institute
Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Cabañas Cultural Institute is a must-see. Originally a hospice, this historic building is now a museum housing some of José Clemente Orozco’s most important works, including his famous murals. The murals depict a number of historical and social themes and are considered one of the masterpieces of mural art in Mexico.
The building itself is an architectural gem, with its interior courtyards and corridors that invite you to explore. In addition to Orozco’s murals, the institute also hosts temporary exhibitions of contemporary art, making it a dynamic cultural space.
3. Enjoy the Gastronomy of Guadalajara
No visit to Guadalajara would be complete without enjoying its rich gastronomy. Take advantage of the holiday to indulge in local flavors. Start with a typical breakfast at one of the city’s many cafes or markets. Try the famous tortas ahogadas, an iconic Guadalajara dish consisting of a baguette filled with pork carnitas, bathed in a spicy tomato sauce.
Another dish you can't miss is birrias, a kind of stew made from goat, beef or lamb, slowly cooked in a mixture of chilis and spices. This dish is usually accompanied with corn tortillas, onion, lemon and salsa, and is perfect for a hearty lunch.
If you love sweets, don't forget to try jericallas, a dessert similar to crema catalana, but with a Mexican touch. It is said that this dessert was invented in Guadalajara, so it is an authentic experience for the palate.
4. Visit the San Juan de Dios Market
The San Juan de Dios Market, also known as Mercado Libertad, is one of the largest markets in Latin America and a fascinating place to explore during a holiday. Here you can find an incredible variety of products, from handicrafts, clothing and toys, to fresh food, typical sweets and spices.
The market is a reflection of the dynamism of Guadalajara, with its hustle and bustle, colors and aromas that immerse you in the daily life of the city. It is an excellent place to buy souvenirs or simply to enjoy the experience of walking through its aisles and observing the diversity of products.
5. Relax in the Los Colomos Forest
If you're looking for a little peace and quiet, Bosque Los Colomos is the place to be. This urban park is an oasis of nature in the middle of the city, with walking trails, Japanese gardens, and picnic areas. It's a perfect place to relax, exercise, or just enjoy nature.
The forest also features a lagoon where you can rent rowboats, as well as designated areas for meditation and yoga practice. If you are with children, they can enjoy the playgrounds and rest areas.
6. Get to know the Mariachi Tradition in Plaza de los Mariachis
Guadalajara is known as the birthplace of mariachi, and no holiday in the city would be complete without hearing these iconic musicians perform. Head to Plaza de los Mariachis, a place where you can enjoy live music while immersing yourself in traditional Mexican culture.
The square is surrounded by restaurants and bars, so you can sit down, order a drink, and enjoy a mariachi serenade while taking in the view. It's also a great place to learn more about the history and evolution of this musical genre that has been recognized as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO.
7. Visit Tlaquepaque and Tonalá
If you have time, take advantage of your holiday to make an excursion to the towns of Tlaquepaque and Tonalá, which are very close to Guadalajara. Both places are famous for their artisanal production and their rich cultural tradition.
In Tlaquepaque, you can stroll along the cobblestone streets and visit the craft shops, where you will find pottery, blown glass, furniture, and handmade textiles. The Plaza del Artesano is a great place to watch artisans at work and to purchase unique pieces.
Tonalá, for its part, is known as the birthplace of Mexican ceramics. Here, you can visit pottery workshops and learn about traditional techniques that have been passed down from generation to generation. On Thursdays and Sundays, the famous Tonalá market is held, where artisans from all over the region come to sell their products.
8. Enjoy the Nightlife in Chapultepec
To close your day out in Guadalajara, head to Chapultepec Avenue, one of the liveliest spots in the city. This avenue is known for its vibrant nightlife, with a variety of bars, restaurants, cafes and art galleries.
During weekends and holidays, the avenue comes alive with live music, street performers and night markets. It's the perfect place to enjoy al fresco dining, try local cocktails or simply stroll around and soak up the city's festive atmosphere.
If you prefer something more cultural, you can visit one of the contemporary art galleries in the area, or attend a concert in one of the bars with live music.
9. Learn the History of Tequila in the Magical Town of Tequila
Just an hour from Guadalajara lies the Magical Town of Tequila, the birthplace of the famous Mexican drink. If your vacation allows you to take a trip out of the city, this is a must-see destination.
In Tequila, you can visit distilleries and learn about the production process of this iconic drink, from harvesting the agave to distillation and aging. Many distilleries offer guided tours that include tastings, where you can try different varieties of tequila and learn to appreciate its nuances.
Aside from the distilleries, the town of Tequila is charming in itself, with its central plaza, churches, and craft markets. You can also climb the Cerro de Tequila for a panoramic view of the agave fields surrounding the region.
10. Attend a Cultural or Sports Event
Guadalajara is a city with a very active cultural and sporting agenda. Depending on the date of your holiday, you may be able to attend a special event, such as a concert, a play, a festival or a football match.
Akron Stadium, home of the Chivas soccer team, is one of the most iconic places to enjoy a live match. The passion of the Guadalajara fans is contagious, and attending a game is an exciting experience that connects you with the city's sports culture.
On the other hand, if you are a fan of music or the performing arts, check out the programming at the Diana Theater or the Telmex Auditorium, where concerts, dance performances, and plays of national and international renown are often presented.
11. Relax in a Spa
If you prefer a day of relaxation, Guadalajara and its surroundings have several spas and hot springs where you can rest and enjoy a peaceful atmosphere. The spas of Chapala, about 45 minutes from the city, are an excellent option if you want to combine a spa day with a walk around the lake.
These places often offer services such as massages, steam baths, thermal pools and relaxation areas. It is the perfect way to end your holiday, recharging your batteries in a natural and peaceful environment.
Guadalajara is a city full of life and activities that offer something for every type of traveler. Whether you prefer to explore its history and culture, enjoy its gastronomy, relax in its natural spaces, or immerse yourself in its vibrant nightlife, a holiday in Guadalajara will provide you with a rich and memorable experience. Take advantage of your time to discover the best of this city, and you will surely want to return to continue exploring everything it has to offer.