Guadalajara
Guadalajara: The Land of Tequila and Mariachi
When planning a trip to Mexico, Guadalajara might not be the first city that comes to mind. You might initially think of destinations like Cabo, Cancun, or Puerto Vallarta. While those places are definitely worth visiting, they are known primarily for their stunning beaches—beautiful, yes, but similar to many others around the world. What sets those destinations apart is their unique blend of Mexican culture. In Guadalajara, however, you’ll experience a deep dive into the heart of Mexico. This city is the birthplace of some of the most iconic elements of Mexican culture, including mariachi music, tequila, the traditional sombrero, and the trending dish, birria.
Getting to Guadalajara
Guadalajara is easily accessible from many locations in the US and Canada, with plenty of direct flights or one-stop connections available from major cities. Its international airport also offers easy access from Central and South America, as well as Europe, with a few direct flights to these regions.
Driving to Guadalajara from the US is also an option. And yes, it is entirely possible to drive safely in most parts of Mexico if you follow some basic common-sense recommendations, which we’ll discuss later. The driving time will depend on your crossing point. If you’re coming from the West Coast, Tijuana is the natural crossing point, with a driving time of about 26 hours non-stop. If you’re starting from the mountain region, you’ll likely cross at Nogales or Juarez, with similar driving times to Guadalajara of around 19 hours. Finally, if you’re starting from the East Coast or the Midwest, you can cross at Piedras Negras, Nuevo Laredo, or Reynosa, with an average driving time to Guadalajara of about 14 hours.
What to See
Our Favorite Restaurants in Guadalajara
Where to Stay
Transportation
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