Guadalajara – Frequently Asked Questions

As the second largest city in Mexico, Guadalajara is a popular destination for tourists around the world. From cultural attractions to natural wonders, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this vibrant city. However, before you embark on your trip to Guadalajara, you may have a few questions. In this post, we answer some of the most frequently asked questions about Guadalajara.

What is the Best Time to Visit Guadalajara?

Guadalajara has a subtropical highland climate with mild winters and warm summers. The best time to visit the city is from December to February when the weather is mild and dry. During this time, temperatures range from 18°C (65°F) to 24°C (75°F), making it perfect weather for exploring the city’s outdoor attractions.

How Do I Get to Guadalajara?

Guadalajara has an international airport that receives flights from major airlines around the world. The Guadalajara International Airport (GDL) is located 16 km (10 miles) southeast of the city center. You can also take a bus or drive to the city from other parts of Mexico.

What are the Must-Visit Attractions in Guadalajara?

Guadalajara is known for its rich cultural heritage and impressive historic sites. Some of the must-visit attractions in Guadalajara include:

• The Guadalajara Cathedral – one of the most iconic landmarks in the city built in the 16th century
• The Instituto Cultural Cabanas – a UNESCO World Heritage site which houses artwork by Mexican muralist, Jose Clemente Orozco
• The Hospicio Cabanas – another UNESCO World Heritage site which showcases breathtaking architecture and houses a museum with a vast collection of Mexican art
• The Tlaquepaque and Tonala Markets – vibrant markets selling handicrafts, pottery, and souvenirs
• Lake Chapala – the largest lake in Mexico, located just 50 km (30 miles) south of Guadalajara

What are Some of the Best Foods to Try in Guadalajara?

Guadalajara is known for its delicious cuisine, including the following dishes:

• Birria – a flavorful meat stew made with goat, lamb or beef
• Torta Ahogada – a sandwich made with pork, refried beans, onions, and a spicy tomato sauce
• Tacos al Pastor – pork tacos marinated in a blend of spices, pineapple, and onions
• Tamales – steamed corn dough filled with various meats, cheese, and salsa, wrapped in a corn husk
• Tequila – the iconic Mexican liquor made from the blue agave plant, which originated in the nearby town of Tequila

What are Some of the Best Neighborhoods to Stay in Guadalajara?

Guadalajara has many neighborhoods that are great for travelers. Some of the best neighborhoods to stay in are:

• Zona Centro – the city’s historic downtown area, where you can find many of the city’s main attractions
• Tlaquepaque – a charming neighborhood known for its artisanal crafts and restaurants
• Chapultepec – a trendy neighborhood known for its street art, cafes, and bars
• Chapalita – an upscale neighborhood with many parks, restaurants, and shopping malls

Is Guadalajara Safe?

Like any city, Guadalajara has its share of crime. However, compared to other cities in Mexico, Guadalajara is considered relatively safe for tourists. It’s always important to take precautions when traveling, such as avoiding traveling alone at night and being aware of your surroundings.

Is English Spoken in Guadalajara?

While Spanish is the official language in Guadalajara, many locals in the city speak English, especially those who work in the tourism industry. However, it’s always a good idea to learn a few basic phrases in Spanish, as it can help you communicate with locals and make your trip more enjoyable.

Final Thoughts

Guadalajara is a beautiful city with many attractions to explore. By knowing the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about the city, you can plan a safe and memorable trip to Guadalajara.

An Insider’s Guide to Guadalajara

If you’re looking for a Mexican city that’s rich in culture, history, and above all, food, look no further than Guadalajara. Known as the birthplace of mariachi music, this city of 1.5 million people boasts myriad cultural experiences, a vibrant culinary scene, and a plethora of hidden gems. From museums to street food stalls, there are plenty of local attractions that await.

Local Attractions

Sure, Teatro Degollado and the Catedral de Guadalajara are stunning, but for a more unique experience, check out the Hospicio Cabañas. This former orphanage and hospital is now a UNESCO World Heritage site and features murals by renowned Mexican artist José Clemente Orozco. Speaking of murals, stroll down the Calle Juárez and check out the ever-rotating street art that covers the walls.

For a breath of fresh air, head to the Bosque Colomos, a lush park that’s home to an art gallery, an aviary, and botanical gardens. You might even catch a glimpse of some friendly iguanas sunning themselves on the rocks.

Dining Spots

Guadalajara is known for its tortas ahogadas, a sandwich smothered in spicy tomato sauce, and birria, a stew made with goat meat. Both can be found at the city’s many street food stalls, but for a sit-down meal, try La Chata. This restaurant’s been around since the 1930s and serves up traditional Jalisco-style food in a charming, old-school setting.

For something more modern, head to Piggy Back, a lively bar/restaurant that serves up craft cocktails and a menu of creative, globally-inspired dishes. Don’t miss the blackened octopus or the Korean BBQ tacos.

Cultural Experiences

Guadalajara is a city that loves to celebrate, and there’s no shortage of festivals throughout the year. The most famous is the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe in December, which features parades, fireworks, and street vendors selling traditional treats. For something more offbeat, check out the Festival de Muertos in November, where altars and parades pay tribute to the dead.

For a dose of contemporary art, visit the Instituto Cultural Cabañas and check out the rotating exhibitions of local and international artists. If music is more your scene, head to the Plaza de los Mariachis in the evening and take in a performance by the city’s best musicians.

Local History

Guadalajara’s history is rich and fascinating, and there are plenty of stories to be told. One of the most interesting is that of the city’s French intervention in the mid-19th century. Take a guided tour of the beautiful neo-classical Palacio de Gobierno and learn about the epic battle that took place there. Another must-visit site is the Museo Regional de Guadalajara, which houses artifacts and exhibits from the pre-Columbian era to the present day.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For a truly unique experience, head to the Tequila volcano and take a tequila-making class with a local expert. You’ll learn about the history and culture of the region while sipping on the good stuff.

Another fun option is to take a street food tour with a local guide. Not only will you get to sample the city’s best eats, but you’ll also learn about the culinary traditions and practices that make them so special.

As you can see, Guadalajara offers plenty of reasons to visit. So why not go and discover all that this vibrant city has to offer?