Guadalajara walking tour & city guide
The home of mariachi and tequila.
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Guadalajara, the capital of Jalisco, is Mexico's second-largest city and the birthplace of many of the country's best-known traditions, including mariachi music, the charreada and tequila. Its historic center is full of grand plazas, and its surrounding towns are known for crafts and music.
The historic center
The Guadalajara Cathedral, with its two yellow-tiled spires, stands at the center of four plazas arranged in the shape of a cross. Nearby, the Government Palace and the Hospicio Cabañas, a UNESCO-listed former orphanage, are decorated with powerful murals by José Clemente Orozco, including the famous 'Man of Fire' in the Cabañas dome.
The Teatro Degollado, a neoclassical opera house, and the long pedestrian Plaza Tapatía link the main sights. The Mercado Libertad, known as San Juan de Dios, is one of the largest indoor markets in Latin America.
Tlaquepaque, Zapopan and Tequila
Tlaquepaque, a colorful district of colonial houses, is famous for its pottery, glass and galleries, and for El Parián, a big square where mariachis play. Zapopan is home to a beloved basilica and the modern Andares district.
About an hour away, the town of Tequila and its blue agave fields are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Distilleries offer tours and tastings, and the Lake Chapala area is a popular weekend escape.
Visiting tips
Guadalajara has a mild climate all year round. The International Mariachi Festival takes place in late summer, and the city's book fair in late November is the largest in the Spanish-speaking world.
Top sights in Guadalajara
- 1
Guadalajara Cathedral
The cathedral with twin yellow spires.
- 2
Hospicio Cabañas
A UNESCO site with Orozco's murals.
- 3
Teatro Degollado
A neoclassical theater.
- 4
Tlaquepaque
A colorful district of crafts and mariachis.
- 5
Basilica of Zapopan
An important pilgrimage church.
- 6
Tequila
The town of agave fields and distilleries.
Food markets & where to eat in Guadalajara
Mercado San Juan de Dios
A huge market with food stalls upstairs.
El Parián, Tlaquepaque
A square of restaurants and mariachis.
Colonia Americana
A trendy area of cafés and bars.
Street carts in the Centro
Tortas ahogadas and tejuino drinks.
Food to try in Guadalajara
Torta ahogada
A sandwich 'drowned' in spicy tomato sauce.
Birria
Slow-cooked spiced goat or beef stew.
Tequila
Straight from the region where it is made.
Tejuino
A fermented corn drink with lime and salt.
Opening hours and prices change often. Please check with each place before you visit.
Plan your trip to Guadalajara
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- Hotels in GuadalajaraCompare places to stay and prices.
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