Guadalajara

Get to know the Mexico you thought you knew.

How to Get to Guadalajara

By Plane

Getting to Guadalajara by plane is convenient and accessible, with the city being served by the Guadalajara International Airport (GDL). This airport is well-connected to major cities across Mexico, the United States, and other international destinations. From the airport, travelers can easily access downtown Guadalajara via taxis, rideshare services, or airport shuttles. Additionally, car rental services are available for those who prefer to explore the city and its surrounding areas at their own pace.

For international travelers, Guadalajara offers direct flights to various destinations outside the US, including Panama City, Bogota, Madrid, and soon Vancouver. Among the airlines operating from Guadalajara, Volaris stands out with the most destinations. Aeromexico operates the only route to Europe, flying to Madrid.

Major international US airlines also offer multiple daily flights to their respective hubs: American Airlines to Dallas Fort Worth and Phoenix, Delta Air Lines to Atlanta, and United Airlines to Houston. With a range of flight options from various carriers, getting to Guadalajara by plane is a seamless and efficient way to begin your adventure in this dynamic city.

Once in Guadalajara you need a reliable way to get to your hotel.Rapivan is a Guadalajara Airport Transfers company that offers private transportation from the airpot to any point in the Guadalajara Metro Area.

By Train

Getting to Guadalajara by train has not been posible in recent years. Since 2010, Mexico had not offered passenger train services until 2023 when the Tren Maya was inaugurated in the Yucatan Peninsula. However, for the rest of the country, only a few tourist routes continued to offer their services. One such route is the Jose Cuervo Express, which travels from Guadalajara to Tequila. However, this is primarily a tourist route with guided tours in Tequila, making it impractical as a transportation means unless you plan to take advantage of the tour offerings. In recent months, the government of Mexico has stated its intention to recover the country's passenger train network in the years to come. However, in the meantime, unfortunately, getting to Guadalajara by train is not an option.

By Car

Getting to Guadalajara by car offers a plethora of routes that provide convenient access to the city from various directions. To the north, Guadalajara is well-connected via Road 54, which leads to Zacatecas, offering travelers a scenic journey through the Mexican countryside. Heading west, Roads 15 and 15D guide travelers towards the Pacific coast, leading to destinations such as Mazatlán, Nogales, Hermosillo, and Tijuana. These routes offer breathtaking views of coastal landscapes and the opportunity to explore vibrant seaside towns.

To the south, Roads 80, 54, and 54D provide access to destinations like Colima and the South Pacific Route 200, which leads to iconic locations such as Acapulco, known for its stunning beaches and lively atmosphere. Travelers can enjoy the diverse landscapes and cultural experiences along these southern routes.

Traveling east from Guadalajara, Roads 80 and 80D connect the city to central Mexico, including Mexico City, Guanajuato, and Querétaro. Additionally, Road 15D leads to Morelia, offering travelers the chance to explore historic cities and immerse themselves in Mexico's rich cultural heritage.

When navigating these routes, it's essential to consider road conditions and the difference between "libres" and "cuotas." Roads with a "D" designation, such as 15D, 54D, and 80D, are cuota roads, which are toll roads maintained to higher standards with wider lanes, smoother surfaces, and faster speeds. These roads often offer a quicker and more efficient journey, especially for longer distances.

On the other hand, roads without a "D" designation, such as Roads 15, 54, and 80, are libres or free roads. While libres may provide a more scenic route with opportunities to explore smaller towns and picturesque landscapes, they may have slower speeds, narrower lanes, and varying road conditions. It's important for travelers to plan their route accordingly, considering factors such as time, distance, and road conditions to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey to Guadalajara.

By Bus

Getting to Guadalajara by bus is a convenient and popular option, offering travelers a comfortable and affordable way to reach the city from various destinations across Mexico. Guadalajara boasts a modern and well-connected bus terminal, the Central de Autobuses de Guadalajara (CAG), located in the northern part of the city.

From other major cities in Mexico, such as Mexico City, Monterrey, and Puebla, travelers can find direct bus routes to Guadalajara operated by reputable bus companies like ETN, Primera Plus, and ADO. These buses offer different classes of service, ranging from economy to luxury, providing amenities such as reclining seats, onboard restrooms, and entertainment options.

Additionally, Guadalajara serves as a major transportation hub in western Mexico, with buses connecting it to popular tourist destinations within the region, including Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlán, and Guanajuato. These routes offer travelers the opportunity to explore the diverse landscapes and cultural attractions of western Mexico.

Moving Around

Tren Ligero

Moving around Guadalajara offers various transportation options, though the network is still evolving to meet the needs of this bustling city. The Tren Ligero, consisting of three lines with a fourth under construction, provides a light rail system serving different parts of the city. While it offers a convenient mode of transportation, the network remains limited for such a large urban area.

Rapid Transit Buses

In addition to the Tren Ligero, authorities have introduced rapid transit buses to enhance efficiency in public transportation. Two main lines are currently operational: Line one, known as the "Mi Macro Calzada" runs on Calzada Independencia from north to south, while the "Macroperiferico" line circles the city's periphery, although it's not a complete circle.

Public Bus

For reaching destinations not covered by the light rail or rapid transit buses, public bus services are available throughout the city. However, it's important to note that while the public bus network covers most parts of the metropolitan area, the service may not meet the standards found in the US or Europe. Buses are sometimes not kept in the best condition, and drivers may lack courtesy and basic driving etiquette. Despite these challenges, navigating Guadalajara by public transportation remains a viable option for residents and visitors alike, offering an insight into the city's vibrant culture and bustling streets.

Transit Cards

Mi Movilidad" is a reusable contactless stored value smart card designed for electronic payments. This card revolutionizes transportation in Guadalajara by allowing users to seamlessly pay for all modes of public transportation within the city. From buses to the Tren Ligero and rapid transit buses, "Mi Movilidad" streamlines the payment process, eliminating the need for cash and making commuting more convenient.

One of the key features of "Mi Movilidad" is its ability to offer a 50% discount on transfers between different transportation networks. This discount encourages users to utilize multiple modes of transportation for their journeys, promoting an integrated and efficient public transit system.

Ridesharing Apps

Ridesharing apps have become a common and convenient method for people in Guadalajara to move around the city. With platforms like Uber and DiDi readily available, residents and visitors alike can easily request rides to their desired destinations with just a few taps on their smartphones. These apps offer a reliable and efficient transportation option, allowing users to quickly and conveniently navigate Guadalajara's bustling streets while enjoying the comfort and convenience of modern ridesharing services.

Car Rentals

Renting a car in Guadalajara provides a convenient and flexible way to move around the city and even explore destinations beyond its limits. There are readily available car rental services at Guadalajara Airport, offering a range of vehicles to suit various needs and preferences. One of the key benefits of renting a car in Guadalajara is the cost-saving aspect. By having their own transportation, travelers can avoid the need to pay for expensive taxi fares to and from the airport.

If you are already in the city, there are also many companies that offer car rental services. Having a rental car provides the flexibility to venture outside the city and explore nearby destinations, such as the charming town of Tequila or the picturesque Lake Chapala

Where to Stay

When it comes to finding accommodations in Guadalajara, visitors have a plethora of options to choose from, ranging from luxurious international chains to quaint boutique hotels. The city boasts a diverse range of neighborhoods and districts, each offering its own unique charm and accommodations.

For those attending events at Expo Guadalajara, staying near the expo center is convenient and practical. There are several hotels located within walking distance or a short drive from Expo Guadalajara, providing easy access to events and conventions.

Alternatively, the Minerva area is popular among travelers for its central location and vibrant atmosphere. This bustling neighborhood is home to the iconic Minerva Glorieta and offers a variety of hotels, restaurants, and shopping options, catering to various budgets and preferences.

The historic Downtown area of Guadalajara is another fantastic option for hotel stays, especially for those looking to immerse themselves in the city's rich cultural heritage. With its charming colonial architecture, lively plazas, and cultural landmarks, Downtown Guadalajara boasts a range of hotels catering to different tastes and budgets.

For a more upscale experience, visitors may opt to stay in the Andares neighborhood, located in the upscale Zapopan area. Here, guests can enjoy luxury accommodations, fine dining restaurants, and upscale shopping at the renowned Andares Centro Comercial.

No matter which neighborhood or district you choose, Guadalajara offers an array of hotel options to suit every traveler's needs, ensuring a comfortable and memorable stay in this vibrant city.

What to Do

Guadalajara, Mexico's second-largest city, offers a rich tapestry of cultural experiences, historical landmarks, and vibrant attractions for visitors to explore. Here are some top things to do in Guadalajara.

Explore the Historic Downtown

Wander through the charming streets of Guadalajara's historic downtown, where you'll find iconic landmarks such as the stunning Guadalajara Cathedral, the majestic Government Palace, and the bustling Plaza de Armas.

Visit Tlaquepaque and Tonala

Explore the artisan neighborhoods of Tlaquepaque and Tonala, known for their vibrant markets, traditional crafts, and colorful streets lined with galleries, boutiques, and workshops.

Tour the Tequila Route

Take a day trip to the nearby town of Tequila and explore the agave fields, distilleries, and museums along the Tequila Route. Learn about the history and production of Mexico's famous spirit and sample a variety of tequilas.

Experience the Mercado Libertad

Lose yourself in the hustle and bustle of Mercado Libertad, one of the largest indoor markets in Latin America. Browse through the stalls selling everything from fresh produce and local delicacies to handicrafts and souvenirs.

Attend a Lucha Libre Match

Immerse yourself in the electrifying world of Mexican wrestling by attending a Lucha Libre match at the Arena Coliseo or Arena Jalisco. Cheer on the masked wrestlers as they perform high-flying acrobatics and dramatic maneuvers.

Visit the Instituto Cultural de Cabanas

Explore the stunning Instituto Cultural de Cabanas, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its remarkable architecture and impressive murals by renowned Mexican artist Jose Clemente Orozco.

Enjoy the Cuisine

Indulge in the delicious flavors of traditional Jalisco cuisine, including birria, pozole, tortas ahogadas, and of course, plenty of tequila. Visit local markets, street food stalls, and traditional restaurants to savor the authentic flavors of Guadalajara.

Relax in Parque Metropolitano

Escape the city bustle and unwind in Parque Metropolitano, the largest urban park in Latin America. Enjoy a leisurely stroll, rent a bike, or have a picnic while taking in the beautiful scenery and fresh air.

Explore Chapultepec Avenue

Discover the trendy neighborhood of Chapultepec Avenue, known for its lively atmosphere, eclectic shops, trendy cafes, and vibrant nightlife. Take a leisurely stroll down the avenue and soak up the local culture.

Experience Mariachi Music

Immerse yourself in the soulful sounds of Mariachi music by attending a live performance at one of Guadalajara's many cantinas, restaurants, or public squares. Experience the passion and energy of this iconic Mexican musical tradition.

These are just a few of the countless activities and experiences that await you in Guadalajara. For more options on what to see and do in your visit to Guadalajara, explore GDLgo's comprehensive guide. Whether you're a history buff, foodie, art enthusiast, or adventure seeker, Guadalajara offers something for everyone to enjoy and explore.

Security

While media sensationalism may depict Guadalajara as a cartel-infested territory, it's crucial to distinguish reality from perception when it comes to security in the city. Despite its portrayal in Netflix series like Narcos, Guadalajara remains one of Mexico's top tourist destinations. The overwhelming majority of visitors perceive it as a safe, livable, and worth visiting city.

Furthermore, much of the crime in Guadalajara is associated with localized issues such as drug trafficking and organized crime, and tourists are unlikely to be affected if they steer clear of involvement in illicit activities. However, it's always wise to observe common-sense precautions when traveling in public transport, as pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas. Additionally, it's advisable to avoid walking alone late at night in unfamiliar areas, as an extra precaution to ensure personal safety.