Guadalajara

Mexico

Mexico Travel Guide

Shop

Get even more with a Lonely Planet guide.


Shop Book
Just an edit of an after hours picture from the office. We have a great view of the city. Looks awesome by night with the lights of the city.

Just an edit of an after hours picture from the office. We have a great view of the city. Looks awesome by night with the lights of the city.

Overview

As Mexico’s second-largest city, Guadalajara delivers a less frenetic alternative to the nation’s capital. And, while many of the images recognized as Mexican have their roots here – mariachi music, wide-brimmed sombreros, the Mexican hat dance and charreadas (rodeos) – Guadalajara is as much a vanguard of the new Mexico as it is guardian of the old. An embarrassment of museums and theaters drive the cultural life forward, fusion chefs have sharpened the edges of an already legendary culinary scene and foresighted local planners are doing their damnedest to tackle the traffic.

Meet your new travel partner

Stay connected in Guadalajara

Holafly eSIM provides unlimited mobile data with no hidden fees, giving you peace of mind wherever you travel. Stay connected even after your plan ends with Always On. Use code LONELYPLANET for an exclusive discount.

Get 5% off

Take your Mexico trip with Lonely Planet Journeys

Pick one of our ready-to-book trips or fully customize your own with help from our local experts.

bookable trip

From Bayside to Coastside: California's San Francisco Peninsula in 10 Days

10 days / 9 nights

highlights

  1. 1Scouring for offshore whales at one of the world’s tallest lighthouses
  2. 2Hiking Monterey Bay’s sprawling coastal trails for dramatic waterfront views
  3. 3Touring an organic farm with a local farmer specializing in sustainable, small-scale agriculture
from $4,940

per person

Explore more trips

Must-see attractions

Planning Tools

Expert guidance to help you plan your trip

Best Time to Visit

Guadalajara, Mexico’s second largest city and the capital of the state of Jalisco, is blessed with sunny skies and spring-like weather year-round. This…


Read full article

Things to Know

One week is ample time to explore and enjoy the wonders of Jalisco, Mexico.


Read full article

Free Things to Do

The second largest city in Mexico, Guadalajara is a complex metropolis conjuring images of colonial churches and outdoor markets, mariachi bands and…


Read full article

Best Neighborhoods

Don't miss these lively neighborhoods on your visit to Guadalajara.


Read full article

Day Trips

Guadalajara is a large, dynamic city. If you’re looking for a different side of Mexico or just need a break from all that urbanity, then you’re in luck.


Read full article

Best Road Trips

Guadalajara is a large, dynamic city. If you’re looking for a different side of Mexico or just need a break from all that urbanity, then you’re in luck.


Read full article

Money and Costs

The second largest city in Mexico, Guadalajara is a complex metropolis conjuring images of colonial churches and outdoor markets, mariachi bands and…


Read full article

Get a book. Get inspired. Get exploring.

in partnership with getyourguide

Book popular activities in Guadalajara