Guadalajara Recommendations

Guadalajara, the capital of the state of Jalisco, is Mexico’s second-largest city and is known as the birthplace of mariachi music, tequila, and many Mexican traditions.
During the first week of April, you can usually expect hot sunny afternoons (30°C), comfortable evenings (15°C), and almost no rain.

Places to visit during your stay

If you’re making a weekend of it, here are a few places we’d recommend around Tlaquepaque and Guadalajara.

The traditional side of Guadalajara

Tlaquepaque Centro & El Parián

The heart of Tlaquepaque is made for strolling: artisan shops, galleries, cobblestone streets. Don’t miss going for lunch to El Parián while you enjoy the live mariachi.

Hospicio Cabañas

One of Guadalajara’s most important cultural landmarks and a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its neoclassical design and José Clemente Orozco’s murals.

Historic Centre of Guadalajara

A great area to visit during the day for the cathedral, plazas, Teatro Degollado, and the city’s historic architecture.

The modern side of Guadalajara

Bosque Los Colomos

One of the city’s most beautiful green spaces. You can walk along shaded paths, visit the Japanese garden, and even go horse riding.

Andares / Puerta de Hierro

For a more upscale experience, Andares offers luxury shopping, modern architecture, and high-end restaurants. It’s a great spot for a nice dinner or rooftop drinks.

Colonia Americana & Chapultepec

The heart of modern Guadalajara, this neighborhood is known for its creative energy, cafés, restaurants, and nightlife. Stroll along Avenida Chapultepec, a lively boulevard lined with bars and terraces, and explore the surrounding streets filled with beautifully restored historic homes, boutique shops, and art spaces.

Must-try dishes

Guadalajara and Tlaquepaque are known for some of the most iconic dishes in Mexican cuisine.

Restaurants and bars

Guadalajara has so many great places to eat, but here are some of our favourites from past visits.

La Casa De Los Platos – São Paulo 2367, Providencia. The best Mexican restaurant I have been to – Tommy c. 2026

Cafe Chai – Calle Independencia 176, Centro, 45500 San Pedro Tlaquepaque. Great spot with options of a breakfast buffet to try a traditional Mexican Breakfast

El Parián de Tlaquepaque – Calle Progreso 15, Centro, 45500 San Pedro Tlaquepaque. A plaza with lots of open-air bars and restaurants under pillared arcades, great for live mariachi music, local food and traditional tequila drinks.

Bravo Cocina y Agave – C. Morelos 206, Centro, 45500 San Pedro Tlaquepaque. A more modern take on Mexican cuisine.

Roto Café – Bar – Av. de la Paz 2303, Col Americana, Lafayette, 44600. No set cuisine, good menu and a chilled vibe, great burger.

Cervecería Chapultepec – Av. Chapultepec 143, Ladrón de Guevara, Ladrón de Guevara, 44600. Cheap and cheerful – for easy tapas, sport on TV and very cheap drinks.