A Long Weekend in Guadalajara: Where History, Culture & Cocktails Collide

After a smooth flight into Guadalajara Airport (GDL), hop in your black car to the hotel and check in at Casa Habita, your home away from home in the trendy Lafayette neighborhood. This boutique hotel blends mid-century style with modern comfort, offering an effortlessly cool atmosphere that sets the tone for your trip.

Kick off the evening at Hueso, a restaurant in the neighborhood that feels more like an art installation than a typical dining spot. Every inch of the white interior is lined with skeletal motifs and eclectic textures. The inventive menu showcases hyper-local ingredients perfectly plated and meant for sharing. The cocktails are super creative as well, and the team is welcoming and fun. The whole place is a vibe and a wonderful start to your weekend.

After dinner, take it easy and stroll back to the hotel for a nightcap at the gorgeous lobby bar serving excellent classics and interesting signature drinks.

Start your morning with a complimentary breakfast at Casa Habita, featuring fresh fruit, pastries and made-to-order Mexican classics.

Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the Lafayette neighborhood and Colonia Americana. Both known for their leafy streets, colorful architecture and hip cafés. Pop into local boutiques, browse contemporary galleries and soak in the energy of one of Guadalajara’s trendiest districts.

By late morning, retreat to the hotel’s rooftop pool and lounge with a perfectly crafted spicy marg in hand. The setting is chic yet relaxed — ideal for unwinding with a book on one of the white, shaded loungers.

Later, indulge in a massage at the hotel spa, choosing from anti-stress or essential oil-infused treatments.

Start the evening at El Gallo Altanero, a rooftop bar dedicated to 100% agave spirits. Sip on a craft cocktail while taking in panoramic views of the city. The bar highlights small-batch tequila and mezcal producers offering an authentic taste of Jalisco.

For dinner, reserve a table at Alcalde, one of Guadalajara’s most celebrated restaurants. Chef Francisco Ruano’s contemporary Mexican cuisine is refined yet comforting. Opt for the tasting menu — a series of beautifully composed dishes that pay homage to local ingredients and traditions.

Spend the morning on a private walking tour of the city’s historic heart. Stroll through Plaza de Armas, admire the architecture of the Guadalajara Cathedral and visit the Instituto Cultural Cabañas, a UNESCO World Heritage Site adorned with striking Orozco murals.

But this isn’t just a history tour — your guide will take you to the best taco spots in the city. You can sample regional favorites like birria, carne en su jugo and tacos al pastor.

Also, don’t skip dessert! Guadalajara is known for its nieve de garrafa, an artisanal ice cream made with fresh local ingredients. Try classic flavors like tamarind, mango with chili or tequila-infused sorbet.

In the evening, either stop by Tomate Taqueria for one (or two) of their famous quesatacos or head to Bruna, a garden oasis that seamlessly blends art and gastronomy. Each dish here is plated like a masterpiece, featuring bold flavors that capture the essence of modern Mexican cuisine.

After dinner, make your way to Peligro, a sleek cocktail bar with a strong LGBTQ+ focus (and great drag shows). It is known for its inclusive atmosphere, creative mixology and intimate ambiance.

Order churros and treats from your delivery service of choice, then enjoy your last evening in your beautiful room with a nice glass of bubbles from the hotel bar.

Check out early, but not without one last cup of café de olla. Your airport transfer will take you on the 45-min trip back to the airport, and while you might be sad to leave, GDL makes it easy to go out in style.

With a sleek and modern design, the airport offers plenty of great choices for a pre-departure meal. If you have time before your flight, grab a final taste of Jalisco at:

• Tlaquepasta: Elevated Mexican cuisine with fresh regional flavors.

• Casa Palomo: A must for one last birria taco.

• Barrio del Tequila: If you need one last sip of Jalisco’s most famous spirit.

• Starbucks Reserve: For a caffeine boost with locally sourced Mexican coffee beans.

By midday, you’ll be back home — already dreaming of your next adventure.