How to Experience Guadalajara and Tlaquepaque in Mexico

Mexico is a fascinating country with a lot of culture to explore. One city that should be on your list is Guadalajara, which offers a mix of history, arts, and entertainment. The city is known for its vibrant nightlife, stunning architecture from the 1800s, and rich culture. Additionally, Tlaquepaque, a small village on the outskirts of Guadalajara, is a place where you can get a glimpse of the traditional Mexican life. If you want to explore these areas, this guide will help you plan your tour.

Highlights

The Guadalajara and Tlaquepaque tour is operated by experienced tour guides, who will take you to the best places in the city. In this tour, you’ll get to: – Discover the magnificent architecture of 1800s Guadalajara – Experience the beautiful handcrafts in Tlaquepaque – Learn about the tradition of Mexican sweets

Experience

The tour starts with a panoramic view of the city, allowing you to appreciate the neoclassical arches that mark the entrance of Guadalajara. The tour will take you to the historical center of the city, where you can admire the stunning Gothic-style Expiatorio Temple. The tour will also take you to Chapultepec Avenue, one of the liveliest areas of the city, where you can explore the many bars, restaurants, and shops. After visiting the historical center of Guadalajara, you’ll head to Tlaquepaque, a small village with a rich history of arts and crafts. You’ll get to see the beautiful handcrafts that the area is known for, such as pottery, blown glass, and woodwork. A highlight of the tour is a visit to a traditional Mexican sweets store, where you can learn about the history and tradition of Mexican sweets.

Full Description

The tour starts by meeting your tour guide, who will take you on a panoramic tour of the city. The first stop on the tour is the roundabout of the Minerva, which is a statue of the Roman goddess of wisdom and arts, erected in the 50s. This statue represents the guardian of the city and is one of the most famous landmarks in Guadalajara. From there, you’ll continue towards the arches of the old entrance to Guadalajara, which marked the start of the Guadalajara-Morelia highway. These arches are 20 meters high and have the coat of arms of Jalisco on top. Next, you’ll head to Chapultepec Avenue, which is a cultural corridor that is often compared to the Champs-Élysées in Paris. Here, you can explore the many cafes, restaurants, and bars that line the street, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. The tour will then take you to Libertad Street, where you can appreciate the architecture from the 1800s, which is a reflection of the city’s most beautiful time. After exploring the city, the tour heads towards Tlaquepaque, which is a small village on the outskirts of Guadalajara. This village is known for its rich history of arts and crafts and is a popular destination for tourists who want to get a glimpse of traditional Mexican life. Here, you can see the beautiful handcrafts that are made by the locals, such as pottery, blown glass, and woodwork. The highlight of the tour is a visit to a traditional Mexican sweets store, where you can learn about the history and tradition of Mexican sweets. You’ll get to taste some of the most popular sweets, such as dulce de leche, tamarind candies, and coconut candy.

Booking the Tour

To book the Guadalajara and Tlaquepaque tour, you can visit the GetYourGuide website at https://www.getyourguide.com/guadalajara-l677/guadalajara-and-tlaquepaque-t49543/. This tour is suitable for people of all ages, and the duration of the tour is approximately 5 hours.

Book Your Tour Now

The Guadalajara and Tlaquepaque tour is a unique opportunity to explore some of the most fascinating places in Mexico. With a mix of history, arts, and entertainment, this tour offers something for everyone. Book your tour today, and experience the magic of Guadalajara and Tlaquepaque for yourself.

Frequently Asked Questions About Guadalajara

1. What is Guadalajara?

Guadalajara is a vibrant city located in the state of Jalisco in Mexico. It’s the second largest city in the country and is known for its rich history, culture, and traditions.

2. What are some of the must-visit tourist attractions in Guadalajara?

There are several must-visit tourist attractions in Guadalajara, including: – The Guadalajara Cathedral: This stunning cathedral is located in the heart of the city and is a must-visit for anyone interested in history and architecture. – The Teatro Degollado: This beautiful neoclassical theater is home to the Jalisco Philharmonic Orchestra and hosts a variety of concerts and performances throughout the year. – The Mercado San Juan de Dios: This massive market is one of the largest in Latin America and is a great place to sample local foods and buy souvenirs. – The Instituto Cultural Cabanas: This UNESCO World Heritage site is a former hospital turned cultural center that now houses a variety of museums and galleries.

3. What is the best time of year to visit Guadalajara?

The best time of year to visit Guadalajara is between November and April when the weather is mild and there are fewer crowds. However, if you’re interested in experiencing some of the city’s cultural events and festivals, you may want to visit during the summer months when there are several celebrations taking place.

4. What is the cuisine like in Guadalajara?

Guadalajara is known for its delicious cuisine, which is heavily influenced by traditional Mexican flavors and ingredients. Some must-try dishes include birria (a spicy stew made with goat meat), tortas ahogadas (a sandwich drowned in spicy tomato sauce), and tequila (which is made in the nearby town of Tequila).

5. What is the best way to get around Guadalajara?

The best way to get around Guadalajara is by taxi or public transportation. There are several bus lines that run throughout the city, as well as a light rail system called the Tren Ligero. However, if you’re planning on exploring the city’s historic center, it’s best to do so on foot as many of the streets are pedestrian-only.

6. Is it safe to visit Guadalajara?

Like any city, Guadalajara has its share of crime, but it is generally considered a safe place to visit for tourists. However, it’s still important to take common-sense precautions such as avoiding dimly lit areas at night and keeping your valuables out of sight.

7. What is the currency used in Guadalajara?

The currency used in Guadalajara (and throughout Mexico) is the Mexican peso. Many businesses also accept U.S. dollars, but it’s recommended to have Mexican pesos on hand for smaller purchases.

8. What is the best way to exchange currency in Guadalajara?

The best way to exchange currency in Guadalajara is by using ATMs or currency exchange offices. Many banks and hotels also offer currency exchange services, but they may charge higher fees than other options.

9. What is the nightlife like in Guadalajara?

Guadalajara has a lively nightlife scene with plenty of bars, nightclubs, and live music venues. Some of the best areas to explore include the historic center, Chapultepec Avenue, and the neighborhood of Tlaquepaque.

10. What is the weather like in Guadalajara?

Guadalajara has a semi-arid climate with mild winters and hot summers. The average temperature during the winter months is around 68°F (20°C), while the summer months can see temperatures soar above 90°F (32°C). It’s also worth noting that Guadalajara tends to be fairly dry throughout the year, so it’s important to stay hydrated if you’re visiting during the summer months.

Book Your Tour Now

Guadalajara is a dynamic and culturally rich city that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, art, food, or nightlife, you’re sure to find plenty of things to see and do here. By keeping these frequently asked questions in mind, you’ll be well-prepared to explore this fascinating city and make the most of your visit.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Guadalajara

Guadalajara is a vibrant city in western Mexico and the capital of the state of Jalisco. It is known for its mariachi music, tequila, and the lively atmosphere. The city is rich in history, culture, and tradition that you won’t find anywhere else in the world. Here are some things you can do to make the most of your time in Guadalajara.

1. Visit the Historic Downtown

The historic downtown of Guadalajara is a must-see. It is the heart and soul of the city and is full of architectural gems, museums, galleries, and restaurants. You can start your tour at the Plaza de Armas, which is the main square of the city. It is surrounded by the Catedral de Guadalajara, the Teatro Degollado, and the Palacio de Gobierno. From there, you can explore the pedestrian-only streets that are lined with colorful buildings and shops.

2. Enjoy Some Tequila

Tequila is a symbol of Mexico, and Guadalajara is the birthplace of this famous drink. You can visit a tequila distillery and learn about the process of making tequila. The most famous distillery in the region is Jose Cuervo, which has been producing tequila since 1758. They offer tours of their facility, where you can see the agave plants and the ovens where they are roasted. You can also taste different types of tequila and learn how to make margaritas.

3. Experience Mariachi Music

Mariachi music is an essential part of the culture of Guadalajara. You can listen to live music at the Plaza de los Mariachis or attend a concert at the Teatro Degollado. There are also many street performers who play mariachi music in the downtown area. You can dance to the rhythm of the music and enjoy the festive atmosphere.

4. Visit a Museum

Guadalajara has many museums that showcase the art, history, and culture of Mexico. The Museo de las Artes de la Universidad de Guadalajara is a contemporary art museum that features works by local and international artists. The Museo Regional de Guadalajara is a historical museum that displays artifacts from pre-Columbian times to the present day. The Museo de la Ciudad is a cultural museum that showcases the history of Guadalajara.

5. Explore Tlaquepaque

Tlaquepaque is a charming town that is just a few miles away from Guadalajara. It is known for its pottery and artisan crafts. You can walk along the cobblestone streets and admire the colorful buildings that are decorated with traditional Mexican motifs. There are many shops that sell handmade items, such as pottery, textiles, and jewelry. You can also dine in one of the restaurants that serve traditional Mexican cuisine.

6. Eat Some Street Food

Guadalajara is known for its delicious street food. You can try tacos, tortas, tamales, and many other dishes that are cooked on the spot. The most popular street food is the torta ahogada, which is a sandwich that is drowned in a spicy tomato sauce. You can find street food vendors in the downtown area and in the markets.

7. Attend a Festival

Guadalajara has many festivals throughout the year that celebrate the culture and traditions of the city. The most famous festival is the International Mariachi Festival, which is held in September. During this festival, you can listen to live mariachi music, watch the dance performances, and taste the traditional food. Other festivals include the International Film Festival, the Book Fair, and the Day of the Dead.

Book Your Tour Now

Guadalajara is a city that offers something for everyone. Whether you want to explore the history and culture, enjoy the music and food, or shop for artisan crafts, you will find it all in Guadalajara. With this guide, you can make the most of your time in this lively and colorful city.