Guadalajara is tradition and modernity intertwined—a city where mariachi music and tequila were born, yet innovation and creativity thrive. Colonial plazas sit next to contemporary architecture, and vibrant neighborhoods like Tlaquepaque and Tonalá keep craftsmanship alive with pottery, glass, and textiles. Art pulses through the city, from José Clemente Orozco’s murals to the thriving contemporary galleries. And of course, the food is unforgettable: tortas ahogadas, birria, and tequila tastings that connect you to Jalisco’s roots. With its blend of culture, history, and modern energy, Guadalajara feels both timeless and ever-evolving — a place you’ll always want to come back to.
Where to stay in Guadalajara
Image courtesy of Hyatt Regency Andares Guadalajara
Hyatt Regency Andares Guadalajara: Modern and stylish, this hotel offers a luxurious urban retreat where contemporary design and comfort meet. Relax in spacious rooms and suites with floor-to-ceiling windows, enjoy high-tech amenities, and take in stunning city views. Stay active at the 24-hour fitness center or unwind in the 25m indoor pool, all while experiencing attentive service that ensures a seamless stay.
Fora’s Hyatt Privé partner perks include a welcome letter from hotel leadership, welcome amenity upon arrival, daily full breakfast for two, property credit (value varies), priority room upgrade, and early check-in/late check-out/connecting rooms subject to availability.
Casa Habita: Chic and contemporary, this boutique hotel blends a restored early 20th-century house with a modern tower. Interiors by Dimorestudio combine art, design, and architecture, creating spaces for relaxation, socializing, and cultural experiences.
Fora’s Tablet Plus partner perks include upgrade to next room category (subject to availability at check-in), welcome drink per guest, daily valet parking, and $25 hotel credit per room, per day (valid towards incidentals).
Things to do in Guadalajara
Catedral de Guadalajara & Teatro Degollado: Start in the heart of the historic center, where the city’s iconic cathedral stands across from the neoclassical Teatro Degollado. Both landmarks capture the spirit of Guadalajara’s rich cultural heritage.
Hospicio Cabañas & Plataforma de Arte Contemporáneo: A UNESCO World Heritage site, Hospicio Cabañas houses José Clemente Orozco’s powerful murals. Pair the visit with Plataforma, where contemporary artists push Guadalajara’s creative boundaries.
MUSA (Museo de las Artes) & Cerámica Suro: At MUSA, admire exhibitions that bridge classical and modern art inside a university setting. Then head to Cerámica Suro, a legendary workshop where international artists collaborate with local artisans to produce striking ceramic works.
Colonia Americana: Named one of the world’s coolest neighborhoods, this area blends Art Deco mansions, leafy streets, and a thriving creative scene. Cafés, bars, and design studios spill out onto the sidewalks, making it perfect for wandering.
Tlaquepaque: Known for its artisanal heritage, this colorful neighborhood is filled with galleries, pottery shops, and charming courtyards. Don’t miss El Parián for a mariachi-filled evening over tequila and local food.
Los Colomos: An oasis of nature in the city, this vast urban forest is ideal for walking trails, picnics, or simply escaping the buzz of Guadalajara.
Mercado de San Juan de Dios: One of Latin America’s largest indoor markets, it’s a sensory overload of food stalls, crafts, clothing, and everyday life a must to experience Guadalajara at its most authentic.
Shopping in Punto Sao Paulo: This modern complex in Zapopan blends upscale shopping, restaurants, and nightlife, making it a stylish stop for those looking to mix leisure with design.
Day trips from Guadalajara
Tequila (1 hour from Guadalajara by car): Explore the birthplace of Mexico’s most famous spirit in this “Pueblo Mágico” surrounded by UNESCO-listed blue agave fields. Tour historic distilleries, ride the José Cuervo Express train, and enjoy a day steeped in tradition best paired with a sip straight from the source.
Tlaquepaque (20–30 min. from Guadalajara by car): This colorful “Pueblo Mágico” is known for its artisan shops, galleries, and vibrant streets. Enjoy local crafts, museums, historic churches, and lively plazas with food and mariachi a perfect spot to experience Jalisco’s culture.
Places to eat & drink in Guadalajara
Restaurants
Almaena: Inventive Mexican cuisine focused on regional produce.
Alcalde: Celebrated fine dining with modern Mexican flair.
Matera: Elegant restaurant for contemporary dining.
Bruna: Chic, stylish dining space with creative dishes.
Juniko: Minimalist Japanese precision dining.
Il Duomo: Guadalajara’s classic Italian reference.
Street Food & Casual Spots
La Docena: Bustling seafood spot with oysters + grilled specialties.
Xokol: Reimagines corn as the star ingredient.
Panga del Impostor: Bold, playful flavors.
Habanero Negro: Modern spot with vibrant, flavor packed dishes.
El Abajeño (Tlaquepaque): Traditional Jalisco cooking with mariachi.
Tortas El Güero, Enrique “El Viejo,” Toño: Classics for tortas ahogadas.
Las 9 Esquinas: Traditional birria destination.
Breakfast & Cafés
Pal Real: Specialty coffee + hearty plates, a local benchmark.
Yunaites: Relaxed, casual spot for easy mornings.
Boulangerie Central: French inspired bakery and café.
Caligari Café: Design driven café blending coffee culture + creativity.
Gabinete: Stylish, modern coffeehouse.
Café Correcto: Specialty coffee for afternoon breaks.
Roto Café & Bar: Coffee with a casual, bar like vibe.
Karmele: Known for artisanal breads.
Helados Ceres: Perfect sweet ice cream stop.
Nightlife & Bars
Turbio: Intimate natural wine bar.
Mantequería: Curated natural wines in cozy surroundings.
Salón Candela: Cocktail bar with atmosphere.
Gallo Altanero: Stylish cocktail hotspot.
Bar Américas: Institution for late night energy + dancing.
Pare de Sufrir: Mezcal bar with depth and authenticity.
Galgo Speakeasy: Hidden speakeasy with inventive drinks.
De la O Cantina: Modern cantina serving creative cocktails.