Prepare for your trip to Guadalajara with these essential tips

I have cherished Guadalajara my entire life, visiting family here since the day I was born.

As a child, it was a land of orange soda and chili-dusted lollipops, mariachi serenades for my twenty-something tías (complete with balcony swooning), and countless hours spent making tortillas. The historic center was my playground, where I could cool off in the Cathedral or beneath a mural at Hospicio Cabañas, indulging in chocolate-filled cuernos from our favorite bakery.

Visiting with my American friends opened my eyes to the layers of Guadalajara, revealing its rich history and modern hustle. It’s a beautifully colonial city intertwined with a bustling metropolis, full of traffic, pickpockets, and vibrancy. A place that honors tradition while embracing inclusivity, where a night can offer fine dining or street food, a symphony or a lively lucha libre match.

Guadalajara continues to embody this blend of past and present (chili-covered lollipops included). Here are some tips to help you experience it fully.

1. Aim for a minimum of 4 days to explore

You can certainly hit the major attractions in a few days—most are clustered in the historic center—but extending your stay allows you to explore the city’s colonial-to-hipster neighborhoods, visit stunning art museums and vibrant outdoor markets, enjoy live music, and perhaps discover your favorite late-night taco spot. Be sure to check the tourism office’s cartelera, which lists all the events happening during your visit.

2. Make your reservations early for October

Every October, Guadalajara buzzes with activity during the Fiestas de Octubre, a month-long festival filled with amazing live shows, pop-up amusement parks, and vibrant parades. Additionally, millions participate in the annual pilgrimage to the Basílica de Zapopan, where devoted Catholics honor the revered icon La Zapopanita. Be sure to reserve your hotel early.

3. Pack layers (and maybe an umbrella)

Guadalajara enjoys mild daytime temperatures in the 70s and 80s year-round. However, evenings can be quite different. In winter, bring warm clothes and a jacket for the chilly air, while a light sweater suffices in summer. Don’t forget an umbrella during your summer visit, particularly in July and August, when afternoon rain is common.

4. Ensure your visit includes a Sunday

Sundays in Guadalajara are all about lively local culture: plazas come alive with street vendors and performers, major roads close to traffic to welcome pedestrians and cyclists (free bikes are available at Parque Revolución), and the city's biggest open-air crafts market transforms the streets of Tonalá. For a special experience, catch an afternoon charreada or lucha libre match.

5. Avoid renting a car

Renting a car in Guadalajara is unnecessary due to heavy traffic, and walking is often the fastest way to get around. For destinations further away, numerous bus routes and a newly expanded metro system provide affordable options (M$9.50-15); use the Moovit app for navigation. For added convenience, Uber is a simple and cost-effective choice.

6. Save money by taking the bus to and from the airport

The most economical way to travel to and from Guadalajara's international airport is by city bus. While it can be crowded and makes several stops, the fare is under US$1. Look for the bus stop in front of Hotel Casa Grande, just 50m (164ft) from the terminal, and board either a 'Ruta 176' or 'Atasa' bus. Both options take about 45 minutes to reach downtown, running every 15 minutes from morning to night.

7. Refer to locals as tapatíos

Stay informed by using tapatío to describe someone or something from Guadalajara. This term comes from tlapatiotl, which means “bartering system” in Nahuatl, the language of the region's original inhabitants.

8. Say hello to others

Tapatíos (and Mexicans in general) appreciate friendly greetings. Before any interaction—whether entering a store or a restaurant—make sure to say “buenos dias” (good morning), “buenas tardes” (good afternoon), or “buenas noches” (good evening). When departing, it’s polite to say “adios” (goodbye), “gracias” (thank you), or “con permiso” (excuse me). Even if that's all you say in Spanish, it will be greatly appreciated.

9. This Catholic city surprises with its liberal vibe

Even with its rich Catholic heritage, Guadalajara stands out as one of Mexico's most welcoming and inclusive cities for LGBTIQ+ individuals. Celebrate the city's Pride festivities, explore its gay bars, support queer-owned businesses, and join in cultural events.

10. Reserve your shorts and flip-flops for the beach

In Guadalajara, wearing shorts or flip-flops—unless you’re a child—will signal that you’re a tourist. Even on the hottest days, adults typically avoid such casual attire in public. Opt for pants or skirts with leather sandals or closed-toe shoes instead. When going out, dress to impress.

11. Speak up on the bus

If you find yourself on a bus without a working bell pull (it happens!), don’t hesitate to shout “bajan!” (BA-hahn; meaning “getting off”). This lets the driver know to stop at the next intersection.

12. Embrace street food

A beloved street food choice in Guadalajara, especially in the morning and known as a reliable hangover remedy, is the torta ahogada (literally 'drowned sandwich'). This baguette-like roll is packed with tender, slow-roasted pork and smothered in spicy sauce. While you might be tempted to use cutlery, tapatíos eat it with their hands—so follow suit! Lean over your plate as if it were a trough to avoid making a mess, and don’t forget to tuck some napkins into your shirt for good measure. It may not be the most refined approach, but you'll blend right in.

13. Negotiate with a smile

Haggling over prices is a common practice in Guadalajara's markets. You might find prices adjusted slightly, or the seller could include a small gift. However, before you hold firm over a few pesos, keep in mind that those coins often hold more significance for the vendor than for you.

14. Dispose of toilet paper in the wastebasket

Due to outdated plumbing in Guadalajara, flushing toilet paper can frequently cause blockages. If you notice a wastebasket in the stall or hotel bathroom, please use it for your TP instead.

15. Steer clear of tap water

Although Guadalajara’s tap water is treated at its source, it can become contaminated as it moves through aging pipes. Therefore, avoid drinking it or using it for brushing your teeth; stick to bottled water. However, you can safely enjoy ice in restaurants and bars, as it’s sourced from commercial ice factories.

16. Choose Uber instead of taxis

While taxis are readily available in the city center, they often have a reputation for overcharging, avoiding their meters, and offering inflated flat rates. Opt for Uber, which offers dependable service at lower prices. If you need to take a taxi, agree on the fare before getting in. If the price seems excessive, try to negotiate or wait for another cab.

17. Be vigilant for pickpockets

In bustling cities, pickpocketing can occur on crowded buses, subway trains, markets, and busy streets and plazas. Notably, Mercado San Juan de Dios and the nightlife scene on Avenida Chapultepec are hotspots for petty theft. Stay aware of your surroundings, as pickpockets often operate in groups to distract their victims. To reduce the risk of being targeted, avoid wearing flashy jewelry and keep your valuables secured in the hotel safe.

18. Steer clear of less popular neighborhoods

While violent crime is not widespread in Guadalajara, especially in tourist-friendly areas, it's wise to avoid venturing into less popular neighborhoods, particularly Colonia Jalisco and Santa Fe, which are known for gang activity.

19. Reach out to your consulate for assistance

If you fall victim to crime, require medical assistance, or need legal help, contact your consulate or embassy. Nearly 50 countries, including the US and Canada, have representatives in Guadalajara who can assist you in navigating the local system or recommending care options.