36 Hours in Guadalajara
Guadalajara is the capital of the state of Jalisco and one of Mexico’s largest cities. Despite its size, it feels far more manageable and relaxed than Mexico City. Located in western Mexico, Guadalajara is famous as the birthplace of mariachi music and tequila, and is known for its elegant colonial architecture, lively plazas, and vibrant cultural scene.
When I last visited Mexico, I spent three nights in Guadalajara (roughly two and a half days). In hindsight, I think a day and a half to two days is enough to experience the highlights while still enjoying the city’s laid-back atmosphere.
Day 1 — Evening
For dinner, I highly recommend Alcalde, one of Guadalajara’s most acclaimed fine-dining restaurants. Led by chef Francisco Ruano, the restaurant is celebrated for its contemporary Mexican cuisine and elegant tasting menus that showcase seasonal local ingredients with refined technique. The dishes are creative yet rooted in regional traditions, resulting in a distinctly modern Jaliscan dining experience. The cocktails are excellent too — try the Sangre de Mezcal, made with mezcal and jamaica (hibiscus), which perfectly balances smoky and floral flavours. The restaurant was ranked No. 51 among the World’s Best Restaurants in 2025, so reservations are essential.
After dinner, head to El Gallo Altanero in the lively neighbourhood of Colonia Americana. Ranked No. 71 among the World’s Best Bars in 2025, it is known for its expertly crafted cocktails and impressive range of Mexican spirits. The bar has a relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere and is a popular evening hangout in the city. Try the Jalisco Old Fashioned, a bold mix of tequila, mezcal, and chocolate bitters.
Day 2
Start your day with breakfast at Zuno Café, also located in Colonia Americana. This relaxed, design-forward café is known for its excellent specialty coffee, airy interiors, and creative atmosphere — the perfect place for a slow morning in Guadalajara.
From there, walk to the nearby Templo Expiatorio del Santísimo Sacramento, one of the city’s most beautiful churches. Built in a striking neo-Gothic style, the church features ornate stained-glass windows imported from France and a large clock with mechanical figures that appear throughout the day.
If you have time, stop by the Museo de las Artes de la Universidad de Guadalajara (MUSA), which houses rotating contemporary exhibitions and impressive murals by José Clemente Orozco.
Later in the morning, continue to Tlaquepaque, about a 30-minute drive away. This charming, pedestrian-friendly district is known for its colourful streets, artisan workshops, galleries, and traditional craft stores. One of the main attractions is El Parián, a lively square surrounded by restaurants where mariachi bands often perform throughout the day.
In the afternoon or early evening, return to the historic centre of Guadalajara and visit the iconic Guadalajara Cathedral, easily recognisable by its striking twin yellow spires. The cathedral sits at the heart of the city and is surrounded by lively plazas, fountains, and historic buildings.
For dinner, I recommend Finca Los Altos, located within walking distance of the cathedral. This stylish restaurant and agave bar celebrates the flavours of Jalisco, serving traditional regional dishes alongside an impressive selection of tequila and other agave spirits in a vibrant setting.
What to eat and drink in Guadalajara
The cuisine of Guadalajara reflects the rich culinary traditions of the state of Jalisco, with several iconic regional dishes. One of the most famous is Birria, a deeply flavourful slow-stewed meat dish (traditionally goat, though often beef today) served in a rich, spiced broth. Another local favourite is Torta ahogada, a crusty bread roll filled with pork and “drowned” in a spicy tomato-chile sauce — messy but delicious.
Guadalajara is also closely associated with Mexico’s most famous spirit, Tequila, which is produced in the nearby town of Tequila. Unsurprisingly, tequila-based cocktails and agave spirits feature prominently on menus across the city.
Day 3 — Morning
Before leaving Guadalajara, head back to Colonia Americana for breakfast or coffee at Peligro al Fondo (often simply called Peligro). Popular with the city’s younger creative crowd, it’s known for its excellent coffee, relaxed atmosphere, and simple but well-executed breakfast dishes — the perfect final stop before continuing your journey.
Where to Stay in Guadalajara
I would recommend staying in Colonia Americana. Often described as one of the coolest neighbourhoods in the world, it’s known for its beautiful Art Deco and neoclassical architecture, leafy streets, trendy cafés, and vibrant nightlife scene.
During my visit, I stayed at Hotel Isabel, a charming and well-located option that makes it easy to explore the neighbourhood and the rest of the city.
Further reading
To better prepare for my trip, I used the Lonely Planet Mexico Travel Guide.
If you combine Guadalajara with a visit to Mexico City, check out my post “20+1 places to eat and drink in Mexico City“.
If you combine Guadalajara with a visit to Oaxaca, check out my post “Where to eat and drink in Oaxaca“.
Alex
(the Traveling Psychiatrist)