3-Day Family Getaway: Nightlife and Sightseeing in Guadalajara
Guadalajara, Mexico
3 days
About Guadalajara, Mexico
Experience the vibrant culture and rich history of Guadalajara, Mexico's second-largest city. Known as the birthplace of mariachi music and tequila, Guadalajara offers a unique blend of traditional and modern attractions. Explore the stunning architecture of the Guadalajara Cathedral, immerse yourself in local art at the Instituto Cultural Cabañas, or stroll through the colorful markets of Tlaquepaque. Don't miss the chance to witness a traditional charreada, a Mexican rodeo, or to taste authentic Jalisco cuisine. With its year-round pleasant climate, Guadalajara also serves as a gateway to nearby natural wonders like Lake Chapala and the Tequila Volcano. Whether you're a history buff, foodie, or nature lover, Guadalajara promises an unforgettable travel experience.
3-Day Itinerary
Day 2
Nature and Culture in North Guadalajara
Morning
Start your second day with a visit to the Guadalajara Zoo, one of the most important zoos in Latin America. It's a great place for families, with a wide variety of animals and attractions.
Lunch
Enjoy lunch in a restaurant near the zoo. Try some of the local dishes like enchiladas or chiles en nogada.
Afternoon
Spend the afternoon exploring the Bosque Los Colomos, a beautiful park with walking trails, picnic areas, and a Japanese garden. It's a great place to relax and enjoy nature.
Dinner
Have dinner in a restaurant that offers a variety of international cuisine options. After a long day of sightseeing, it's a great place to relax and enjoy a good meal.
Evening
End your day with a visit to a family-friendly theater show. Guadalajara has a vibrant theater scene, with a variety of shows ranging from traditional Mexican performances to modern plays.
Day 3
Shopping and History in Tlaquepaque
Morning
On your last day, visit the Mercado San Juan de Dios, one of the largest indoor markets in Latin America. Here you can find everything from traditional Mexican crafts to delicious street food.
Lunch
Have lunch in a restaurant near the market. Try some of the local street food like tacos, tamales, and churros.
Afternoon
Spend the afternoon exploring the historic district of Tlaquepaque. This area is known for its beautiful colonial architecture, art galleries, and craft shops.
Dinner
Have your last dinner in a traditional Mexican restaurant in Tlaquepaque. Try some of the local dishes like pozole, tamales, or mole.
Evening
End your trip with a visit to a local mariachi show. It's a great way to experience Mexican culture and music, and a perfect ending to your trip.
Attractions in Itinerary (6)
1Guadalajara Cathedral
A Roman Catholic cathedral in the heart of Guadalajara, known for its stunning architecture and beautiful stained glass windows.
2Instituto Cultural Cabañas
A UNESCO World Heritage site, this cultural institute is housed in a historic hospital building and features murals by José Clemente Orozco.
3Guadalajara Zoo
A large zoo featuring a variety of animals, a safari, and an aquarium.
4Bosque Los Colomos
A large urban park featuring a Japanese garden, horseback riding, and picnic areas.
5Mercado San Juan de Dios
One of the largest indoor markets in Latin America, this bustling market offers everything from food and drink to clothing and souvenirs.
6Tlaquepaque
Known for its pottery workshops and local theater, Tlaquepaque is a charming neighborhood filled with artisan shops, galleries, and traditional Mexican restaurants.
Local Food and Drinks (12)
Tortas Ahogadas
A popular dish in Guadalajara, it's a sandwich filled with pork, drowned in a spicy tomato sauce.
Birria
A traditional Mexican dish, originally from Guadalajara. It's a spicy stew, typically made from goat meat or mutton.
Tejuino
A traditional drink from Guadalajara, made from fermented corn and served with a scoop of lemon ice cream.
Carne en su Jugo
A traditional dish from Guadalajara, it's a beef stew cooked in its own juices, served with beans, bacon, and a variety of toppings.
Pozole Rojo
A traditional dish from Guadalajara, it's a hearty soup made with hominy (dried corn kernels), meat, and garnished with shredded lettuce, chili peppers, radish, onion, lime, and oregano.
Chiles en Nogada
A traditional dish from Guadalajara, it's a stuffed poblano pepper filled with a mixture of meat and dried fruit, covered in a walnut-based cream sauce, and garnished with pomegranate seeds.
Jericalla
A traditional dessert from Guadalajara, it's a custard-like dish made with eggs, milk, sugar, and cinnamon, similar to flan.
Menudo
A traditional dish from Guadalajara, it's a soup made with beef stomach in broth with a red chili pepper base.
Enchiladas Mineras
A traditional dish from Guadalajara, it's a type of enchilada filled with cheese or chicken, and topped with a sauce made from guajillo chili peppers.
Cajeta
A traditional dessert from Guadalajara, it's a type of caramel sauce made from sweetened caramelized milk.
Champurrado
A traditional drink from Guadalajara, it's a warm and thick chocolate-based drink, prepared with masa de maíz (lime-treated-corn dough), piloncillo (unrefined cane sugar), water or milk, and occasionally flavored with cinnamon, anise seed, or vanilla.
Charales
A popular street food in Guadalajara, they are small fish, similar to whitebait, that are fried until crispy and served with lime and hot sauce.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Guadalajara, Mexico is during the dry season, which runs from November to May. During these months, the weather is pleasant and there's less chance of rain interrupting your plans. The temperatures typically range from 70°F to 80°F (21°C to 27°C), making it perfect for exploring the city's rich culture, history, and beautiful architecture. Additionally, the Festival Cultural de Mayo takes place in May, offering a wide range of cultural events and performances.
National holidays
Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.
| Date | Day | Holiday Name |
|---|---|---|
January 1 | Mon | New Year's Day |
February 5 | Mon | Constitution Day |
March 18 | Mon | Benito Juárez's Birthday Memorial |
May 1 | Wed | Labor Day / May Day |
July 7 | Sun | General Election Day |
September 16 | Mon | Independence Day |
October 1 | Tue | Inauguration day |
November 18 | Mon | Revolution Day Memorial |
December 25 | Wed | Christmas Day |
How to get around
Public Bus
Public buses are a common way to get around in Guadalajara. They cover most areas of the city and are quite frequent. However, they can be crowded during peak hours and may not be the most comfortable option.
Taxi
Taxis are readily available throughout Guadalajara. They can be hailed on the street, booked via a hotel, or called directly from a taxi company. It's a convenient option, but make sure to agree on the fare before starting the journey.
Ridesharing
Ridesharing services like Uber and Didi are available in Guadalajara. They are often cheaper and more comfortable than taxis. You can book a ride using the respective apps, which also provide an estimated fare and arrival time.
Rental Car
If you're comfortable driving in Mexico, renting a car can be a good option. It gives you the flexibility to travel at your own pace and explore areas outside of Guadalajara. However, be aware of the traffic rules and parking regulations.
Bicycle
Guadalajara has a public bike-sharing system called MiBici. After registering, you can pick up a bike from one of the many docking stations around the city. It's a fun and eco-friendly way to explore the city, especially the downtown area.
Light Rail (Tren Ligero)
Guadalajara's light rail system, Tren Ligero, is a fast and efficient way to travel around the city. It has two lines that cover many tourist attractions. It's also a good option for avoiding traffic during peak hours.
Foot
Many of Guadalajara's attractions are located close to each other, especially in the downtown area. Walking can be a pleasant way to explore the city, but be sure to wear comfortable shoes and stay hydrated.
Tourist Bus (Tapatio Tour)
The Tapatio Tour is a hop-on, hop-off tourist bus that covers major attractions in Guadalajara. It's a convenient way to see the city, especially if you're short on time or prefer not to navigate public transportation.
Important information
Currency$ MXN
Time zoneUTC-6
Driving sideRight
Emergency phoneAmbulance: 065; Fire: 068; Police: 060
Drinking waterOpt for bottled water
Power sockets
Voltage120 V
Things to know about Guadalajara, Mexico as a first time visitor
1
Guadalajara is the second largest city in Mexico and is known as the 'Pearl of the West'.
2
The official language is Spanish, so it would be helpful to learn a few basic phrases.
3
The currency used is the Mexican Peso (MXN). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's always good to have some cash on hand.
4
Guadalajara operates on Central Standard Time (CST).
5
The city has a humid subtropical climate. The average temperature ranges from 50°F to 80°F (10°C to 27°C).
6
The best time to visit is between October and December when the weather is most pleasant.
7
Guadalajara is known for its rich cultural heritage, including mariachi music and tequila, which both originated in the state of Jalisco.
8
Tipping is customary in Mexico. A tip of 10-15% is generally expected in restaurants.
9
Public transportation is widely available, including buses and a light rail system. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available.
10
Guadalajara is generally safe for tourists, but like any large city, it's important to stay alert and aware of your surroundings.
11
The city has a vibrant nightlife, with many bars, clubs, and live music venues.
12
Traditional Mexican cuisine is a must-try. Local specialties include birria (a spicy stew), tortas ahogadas (a type of sandwich), and tejuino (a fermented corn drink).
13
Guadalajara is a shopper's paradise, with a mix of traditional markets and modern shopping malls.
14
The city is known for its beautiful architecture, including many colonial-era buildings.
15
Guadalajara is a major center for arts and culture, with numerous museums, galleries, and theaters.
16
The city is home to several universities and has a large student population, contributing to its vibrant and youthful atmosphere.
17
Guadalajara hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, including the Guadalajara International Film Festival and the Mariachi and Charreria Festival.
18
Healthcare facilities in Guadalajara are generally of a high standard. However, it's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.
19
Tap water is not safe to drink. It's recommended to drink bottled water.
20
Electricity in Mexico is 110 volts, the same as the United States. If your devices use a different voltage, you'll need a converter.
Basic Spanish to know as a first time visitor
English phrase | Native phrase | Pronunciation | When to use it |
|---|---|---|---|
Hello | Hola | O-la | Greeting someone |
Goodbye | Adiós | A-dee-os | Leaving or saying goodbye to someone |
Please | Por favor | Por fa-vor | When asking for something |
Thank you | Gracias | Gra-see-as | After receiving something or someone's help |
Yes | Sí | See | Agreeing with someone or something |
No | No | No | Disagreeing with someone or something |
Excuse me | Perdón | Per-don | Getting someone's attention or apologizing |
I'm sorry | Lo siento | Lo see-en-to | Apologizing |
Do you speak English? | ¿Hablas inglés? | Ab-las in-gles | When you need to communicate in English |
I don't understand | No entiendo | No en-tee-en-do | When you don't understand what's being said |
Where is the bathroom? | ¿Dónde está el baño? | Don-de es-ta el ban-yo | When you need to use the bathroom |
How much does it cost? | ¿Cuánto cuesta? | Kwan-to kwes-ta | When you want to know the price of something |
I would like... | Me gustaría... | Me gus-ta-ree-a | When ordering food or asking for something |
Help! | ¡Ayuda! | A-yu-da | In case of emergency |
Call the police! | ¡Llame a la policía! | Ya-me a la po-lee-see-a | In case of emergency |
I'm lost | Estoy perdido | Es-toy per-di-do | When you can't find your way |
Can I use my credit card? | ¿Puedo usar mi tarjeta de crédito? | Pwe-do u-sar mi tar-he-ta de cre-di-to | When you want to pay with credit card |
Open | Abierto | A-bee-er-to | To know if a place is open |
Closed | Cerrado | Ce-rra-do | To know if a place is closed |
Cheers! | ¡Salud! | Sa-lud | When toasting |
Packing List
Clothing
Lightweight clothing
Underwear
Socks
Sleepwear
Swimsuit
Sunglasses
Hat for sun protection
Comfortable walking shoes
Light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings
Toiletries
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Deodorant
Shampoo and conditioner
Body wash or soap
Razor and shaving cream
Sunscreen
Insect repellent
Prescription medications
First-aid kit
Hand sanitizer
Travel documents and essentials
Passport
Driver's license or ID card
Credit and debit cards
Cash and coins
Travel insurance documents
Hotel and car rental reservations
Emergency contact information
Electronics and gadgets
Smartphone
Charger for smartphone
Headphones
Camera
Charger for camera
Travel adapter for electrical outlets
Portable power bank
Miscellaneous items
Travel guidebook for Guadalajara
Spanish-English dictionary or phrasebook
Reusable water bottle
Snacks
Travel pillow and blanket
Earplugs and eye mask
Umbrella or rain poncho
Plastic bags for dirty clothes or wet items
Weather Conditions
When visiting Guadalajara, Mexico, it's important to note that the city experiences a humid subtropical climate. This means that you can expect warm, humid summers and mild winters. The warmest months are typically between April and June, with average high temperatures reaching around 88°F (31°C). If you're planning to visit during this time, be sure to pack lightweight, breathable clothing to stay comfortable in the heat. Don't forget your sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun's strong rays. The rainy season in Guadalajara runs from June to October. During this time, you can expect heavy afternoon showers and thunderstorms. If you're visiting during these months, it's a good idea to pack a raincoat or umbrella. Despite the rain, temperatures remain quite warm, averaging around 77°F (25°C). From November to February, Guadalajara experiences its coolest temperatures, with averages around 68°F (20°C). If you're visiting during these months, you might want to pack a light jacket or sweater for the cooler evenings. Regardless of when you visit, it's always a good idea to check the local weather forecast before your trip. This will help you pack appropriately and plan your activities. Remember, the weather can change quickly, so it's always best to be prepared.
| Month | Hi / Lo (°C) | Weather Overview |
|---|---|---|
January | 28° / 7° | January is the coldest month in Guadalajara, but it's still quite mild with average temperatures ranging from 7°C to 28°C. It's a great time to visit if you prefer cooler weather. |
February | 30° / 8° | February sees a slight increase in temperature, with lows of 8°C and highs reaching up to 30°C. The weather is generally dry, making it a good time for outdoor activities. |
March | 32° / 10° | March is the start of spring in Guadalajara, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 32°C. It's a great time to explore the city's parks and gardens. |
April | 34° / 12° | April is one of the warmest months in Guadalajara, with temperatures reaching up to 34°C. It's a great time to visit if you love the heat. |
May | 36° / 14° | May is the hottest month in Guadalajara, with temperatures ranging from 14°C to 36°C. It's a great time to visit if you love the heat, but be prepared for occasional rain showers. |
June | 34° / 16° | June marks the start of the rainy season in Guadalajara, with temperatures ranging from 16°C to 34°C. Despite the rain, the weather is still warm and pleasant. |
July | 32° / 16° | July is in the middle of the rainy season in Guadalajara, with temperatures ranging from 16°C to 32°C. It's a good time to visit if you don't mind the occasional rain shower. |
August | 30° / 16° | August is another rainy month in Guadalajara, with temperatures ranging from 16°C to 30°C. Despite the rain, the weather is still warm and pleasant. |
September | 30° / 15° | September marks the end of the rainy season in Guadalajara, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 30°C. It's a great time to visit if you prefer cooler weather and less rain. |
October | 28° / 12° | October sees a decrease in temperature, with lows of 12°C and highs reaching up to 28°C. The weather is generally dry, making it a good time for outdoor activities. |
November | 26° / 9° | November is a mild month in Guadalajara, with temperatures ranging from 9°C to 26°C. It's a great time to visit if you prefer cooler weather. |
December | 24° / 7° | December is the second coldest month in Guadalajara, but it's still quite mild with average temperatures ranging from 7°C to 24°C. It's a great time to visit if you prefer cooler weather. |
Did you know?
Places near by Guadalajara, Mexico
Tequila
Famous for its tequila distilleries, this town offers tours to learn about the process of making tequila.
Chapala
Known for its beautiful lake, the largest in Mexico, and its charming town with a vibrant expat community.
Tlaquepaque
Famous for its pottery and blown glass, this town is a great place for art lovers.
Zapopan
Home to the Basilica of Our Lady of Zapopan, a popular pilgrimage site, and the Telmex Auditorium, a major concert venue.
Ajijic
A small town on the shores of Lake Chapala, known for its mild climate and popular with retirees.
Guachimontones
An archaeological site featuring unique circular stepped pyramids, a ball court, and an ancient observatory.
Puerto Vallarta
A resort town on Mexico's Pacific coast, known for its beaches, water sports, and nightlife.
Morelia
A colonial city known for its well-preserved Spanish buildings and the Morelia Cathedral.
