With two days in the capital of Jalisco, you can enjoy the main sights and sounds of Guadalajara proper before venturing beyond the city for a tequila tour or a Tlaquepaque day trip. Whether you like food, art, or history, here’s how to get the most out of two days in Guadalajara.
Take advantage of the cool Guadalajara morning to do some sightseeing on foot. Center your exploration around Guadalajara’s four central plazas and take traveler-free photos of highlights such as Guadalajara Cathedral and the neoclassical Degollado Theatre. Alternatively, explore the city’s principal buildings during a guided mural tour.
In the afternoon, dive deep into the Guadalajara dining and street-food scene during a guided, introductory walking tour of some of the city’s best dishes. Foodies may prefer a full-day gastronomic experience instead, while budget travelers can explore independently at the Santa Tere Market.
Take it easy on your first night in Guadalajara with a fun escape-room challenge, although if you’re still itching to explore the city, stop by a traditional cantina in the historic center for a beer and botana (bar snacks).
Wake up early for an out-of-city excursion on your second day in Guadalajara. Tequila lovers can’t miss the opportunity to tour the town of Tequila. Choose a full- of half-day visit to suit you. Meanwhile, history buffs should venture to Guachimontones to marvel at circular, concentric pyramids.
If you opted for a half-day excursion in the morning, spend the afternoon at Guadalajara Zoo or the Selva Mágica theme park. Buy your tickets in advance to save time on the day. Alternatively, take a taxi to nearby Tlaquepaque and explore the center independently for a couple of hours.
Celebrate your final night in the city with an exploration of Guadalajara’s nightlife. Whether you want cocktails or dive bars, there’s likely something to suit you near lively Chapultepec Avenue. If you find Guadalajara overwhelming after dark, join a pub crawl instead and take advantage of complimentary drinks.