Guadalajara

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Guadalajara's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Explore Historic Guadalajara
morning
:

Start your day at the Guadalajara Cathedral, admiring its neo-Gothic architecture. Stroll through the Plaza de Armas to soak in the city's vibrant atmosphere.

afternoon
:

Visit the Instituto Cultural Cabañas, a UNESCO World Heritage site, to appreciate its stunning murals. Enjoy lunch at a nearby local market for an authentic taste of Mexican cuisine.

evening
:

Take a leisurely walk in the Parque Agua Azul, enjoying the beautiful gardens and tranquil surroundings. End your day with dinner at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the city.

day 2
Art & Culture Day
morning
:

Visit the Museo de las Artes de la Universidad de Guadalajara to view contemporary works. Participate in a guided tour to understand the local art scene better.

afternoon
:

Head to the Mercado San Juan de Dios for lunch and shop for local crafts. Enjoy the lively atmosphere and select some souvenirs.

evening
:

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Tlaquepaque, known for its artsy vibe. Dine at a traditional cantina and enjoy live mariachi music.

day 3
Day of Museums
morning
:

Kick off your museum tour at the Museo Regional de Guadalajara, showcasing the region's history. Explore exhibits ranging from pre-Hispanic artifacts to contemporary art.

afternoon
:

Visit the Museo de la Ciudad for a deep dive into Guadalajara's past and culture. Indulge in lunch at a quaint café nearby.

evening
:

End your museum adventure at the Museo de Paleontología, where you can explore fascinating fossil exhibits. Reflect on your day over dinner at a restaurant featuring local specialties.

day 4
Nature & Relaxation
morning
:

Spend the morning at Bosque Los Colomos, a beautiful park perfect for walking and nature watching. Enjoy a picnic breakfast surrounded by greenery.

afternoon
:

Visit the Guadalajara Zoo to see a wide variety of animals and attractions. Grab lunch at the zoo’s café for a convenient meal.

evening
:

Relax with a stroll around the park at dusk and enjoy the cool evening air. Have dinner at a nearby bistro that serves fresh dishes made with local ingredients.

day 5
Shopping & Local Flavors
morning
:

Explore the upscale boutiques and artisan shops in the Andares shopping center. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at one of the chic cafes.

afternoon
:

Take a break for lunch at a local taco stand to dive into Guadalajara's famous street food scene. Continue shopping at the nearby Plaza Patria.

evening
:

Wrap up your shopping day by exploring the local markets for unique handicrafts. Treat yourself to dinner at a trendy restaurant popular with locals.

day 6
Culinary Adventure
morning
:

Join a cooking class to learn how to make traditional Mexican dishes. Enjoy the hands-on experience with fresh ingredients and local techniques.

afternoon
:

After lunch, visit the local market to gather spices and ingredients used in your cooking class. Sample some authentic dishes from various vendors.

evening
:

Check out a food tour in the evening, where you can taste different local delicacies. Finish the day with a dessert from a popular local café.

day 7
Cultural Exploration of Tlaquepaque
morning
:

Visit the picturesque town of Tlaquepaque known for its ceramics and glasswork. Spend your morning wandering through colorful streets and artisan shops.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at a charming restaurant known for its local foods. Continue your exploration by visiting the Museo Regional de Cerámica.

evening
:

Enjoy a relaxed evening at Plaza de los Mariachis, soaking in local music and culture. Delight in dinner at a traditional Mexican restaurant nearby.

day 8
Biking Through the City
morning
:

Rent a bike and ride through the scenic paths of the city, starting at Chapultepec. Stop to explore art galleries and boutiques along the way.

afternoon
:

Cycle to the picturesque Parque de la Revolución for a relaxing lunch under the trees. Enjoy people-watching while you eat your meal.

evening
:

Return your bike and enjoy a casual evening walk through the park before dinner. Choose a local eatery to savor traditional Guadalajara dishes.

day 9
Festival Fun
morning
:

Check the local events calendar and immerse yourself in a cultural festival. Enjoy parades, music, and art exhibitions while you explore.

afternoon
:

Grab lunch at one of the food stalls offering delicious regional dishes. Continue enjoying the festivities with local performances and activities.

evening
:

Experience the vibrant atmosphere as night falls, with street performers lighting up the scene. Enjoy dinner at a nearby restaurant celebrating the festival themes.

day 10
A Day at Lake Chapala
morning
:

Take a day trip to Lake Chapala, Mexico's largest freshwater lake. Enjoy a refreshing breakfast at a café with stunning lake views.

afternoon
:

Stroll along the lakefront promenade and have lunch at a lakeside restaurant, savoring fresh seafood. Rent a boat for some leisure time on the water.

evening
:

Watch the sunset over the lake for a breathtaking view. Conclude your day with a cozy dinner in the town of Ajijic, known for its artistic community.

Discover Guadalajara

Read more in our Guadalajara 2024 Travel Guide.

Guadalajara Travel Guide