Guadalajara is Mexico's second-largest city and the birthplace of tequila, mariachi music, and charreada (rodeo). Known as the "Pearl of the West," this vibrant metropolis offers colonial architecture, world-class food, thriving arts scene, and authentic Mexican culture. From the artisan villages of Tlaquepaque to the tequila fields of Jalisco, Guadalajara is Mexico at its most iconic.
Quick Facts
Recommended Stay5 days
Budget$50/day
Mid-range$100/day
Luxury$250/day
Known For
guadalajaragdljaliscomexicotequilamariachitlaquepaquezapopantorta_ahogadabirriacharreriahospicio_cabanastapatio
🇲🇽 Country Information: Mexico
CapitalCiudad de México
CurrencyMexican peso ($)
LanguageSpanish, English (in tourist areas), Indigenous languages
Phone Code+52
Electricity127V (Type A, B)
Tap WaterNot recommended
Tipping
- Restaurants: 10
- 15% of the bill, especially if service charge is not included
- Taxis: Tipping is not customary for short rides, but you can round up the fare or tip a small amount for longer rides or good service
- Bellhops/Porters: 10
- 20 pesos per bag
- Tour guides: 10
- 20% of the tour cost
- Housekeeping: 20
- 50 pesos per night
Money & Payments
- ATMs are widely available, especially in cities and tourist areas, but fees may apply
- Credit cards are widely accepted in cities and larger establishments, but cash is preferred in smaller towns and markets
- It's advisable to carry a mix of cash for smaller purchases and credit cards
- There is no black market for cash
Cultural Norms
- Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or small towns
- Politeness and greetings are highly valued; always say "Hola" and "Gracias"
- Punctuality is more relaxed than in some Western cultures, especially for social gatherings
- It's customary to shake hands or give a light kiss on the cheek (between women, or a woman and a man) as a greeting
- Avoid public displays of affection that are overly passionate
- When eating, keep hands visible on the table, but don't rest elbows on the table
LGBTQ+ Information
Generally LGBTQ+ friendly. LGBTQ+ rights have advanced significantly in Mexico, with same-sex marriage legal nationwide and broad anti-discrimination laws. However, attitudes may vary by region, and discrimination can still occur.
Alcohol & Drug Laws
- The legal drinking age is 18
- Drug laws are strict, even for small amounts of marijuana; possession can lead to severe penalties and imprisonment
Special Laws
- It is illegal to drink alcohol in public spaces outside of designated areas
- Carrying a valid ID (passport or driver's license) is recommended
- Be aware of potential scams and pickpocketing in crowded tourist areas
Common Phrases
NoNo (NOH)
YesSÃ (SEE)
HelloHola (OH-lah)
PleasePor favor (por fah-VOR)
Thank youGracias (GRAH-see-ahs)
Good morningBuenos dÃas (BWEH-nohs DEE-ahs)
Good afternoonBuenas tardes (BWEH-nahs TAR-dehs)
Good evening/nightBuenas noches (BWEH-nahs NOH-chehs)
Climate
Subtropical highland climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. Dry season (November-May) has warm days and cool nights. Rainy season (June-October) brings afternoon thunderstorms but rarely all-day rain. Average temperature 20-25°C year-round. 1500m elevation makes it cooler than coastal Mexico.
Getting There
- Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla International Airport (GDL) has direct flights from major US cities (Los Angeles, Houston, Dallas, Chicago) and throughout Mexico
- 20km south of downtown, 30
- 45 minutes by taxi/Uber
- Bus terminals connect to all Mexican cities with excellent first
- class service
Getting Around
- Uber and Didi are ubiquitous and affordable
- Metro has 3 lines but limited coverage
- Macrobus (BRT) connects key areas
- Taxis available but negotiate price first
- Walking excellent in Centro Historico and Chapultepec
- Rent a car for Tequila day trips
- Avoid driving during rush hours
Health & Vaccinations
- No special vaccinations required
- Hepatitis A and Typhoid recommended
- Routine vaccinations should be current
- Altitude adjustment minimal (1500m)
- Tap water not recommended
- drink bottled
- Good pharmacies and hospitals available
- Travel insurance recommended
Staying Connected
- Mexican carriers: Telcel, AT&T Mexico, Movistar
- eSIM: Airalo, Holafly work well
- 4G/LTE excellent throughout city
- WiFi common in restaurants and cafes
- International roaming often included from US carriers
Local Cuisine
Torta Ahogada
must_try
Guadalajara's signature dish - a crusty birote bread sandwich filled with carnitas, drowned in spicy tomato sauce. Eaten for breakfast or late-night s
Birria
must_try
Jalisco's famous slow-cooked goat or beef stew in a rich, spicy chile broth. Served with tortillas, onion, cilantro, and lime.
Carne en su Jugo
regional_speciality
Beef strips in a savory broth with bacon, beans, and cilantro. Served with tortillas. Karne Garibaldi holds the Guinness record for fastest service.
Tequila
must_try
The world-famous spirit made from blue agave, native only to this region. Visit distilleries in the town of Tequila or sample at local cantinas.
Tejuino
street_food
A refreshing fermented corn drink served cold with lime sherbet and salt. A traditional Jalisco beverage perfect for hot days.
Book in Advance
Plan ahead for the best experience. Here's what to book before your trip:
🔴 Must Book in Advance
Book 2-8 weeks ahead
Tours to the town of Tequila including Jose Cuervo Express train and distillery visits are extremely popular.
🟡 Recommended to Book Ahead
Book 1-2 weeks ahead
Arena Coliseo hosts authentic Mexican wrestling. Weekend matches popular with tourists and locals.
Book a day or two ahead for tours
No booking needed but guided tours help navigate the artisan villages. Tonala market biggest on Sundays.
No booking needed
The birthplace of mariachi. No booking needed - walk up and hire musicians at the plaza.
Fun Facts
- 1. Guadalajara is the birthplace of mariachi music - the iconic Mexican musical tradition originated in the Jalisco region.
- 2. Tequila can only legally be produced in Jalisco and a few other Mexican states - the town of Tequila is just an hour from Guadalajara.
- 3. The city hosted the 2011 Pan American Games and has the largest sports complex in Latin America.
- 4. Guadalajara is known as the "Silicon Valley of Mexico" with a thriving tech industry and startup scene.
