Things To Do
in Tequila
Tequila, Mexico sits in the highlands of Jalisco, known for its iconic blue agave landscape and as the birthplace of the world-famous spirit that shares its name. The town blends rugged rural charm with a growing scene of distilleries, museums, and traditional Mariachi performances that celebrate regional culture. Visitors can tour the Jose Cuervo distillery, explore agave fields, and savor hearty Jalisco dishes in bustling markets.
With a warm climate most of the year and easy day trips to nearby towns, Tequila makes for an approachable gateway to Mexican heritage and mezcal-inflected experiences.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Tequila and settle into your accommodation. Start your day with a traditional Mexican breakfast at a local eatery. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the vibrant streets, admiring the colonial architecture and artisanal shops.
Visit the Tequila distilleries for a guided tour where you can learn about the processes involved in making this iconic spirit. Enjoy tasting sessions to appreciate the different flavors and styles of tequila. For lunch, indulge in local cuisine at a nearby restaurant, sampling dishes like birria or carne asada.
Watch the sunset from a scenic viewpoint overlooking the agave fields. Head to a local bar and enjoy live mariachi music while tasting various tequila cocktails. End your night with a starlit walk through the historic center, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
Begin your day with a guided hiking tour through the expansive agave fields. Engage with local farmers, learning about the cultivation of blue agave and its significance in tequila production. Enjoy an energizing breakfast packed for your outdoor adventure.
Continue your exploration by visiting the National Museum of Tequila, where interactive exhibits showcase the history and cultural impact of tequila. Have lunch at a nearby café and mingle with locals over regional dishes. Engage in a mini tequila blending workshop to create a custom flavor.
Attend a cultural performance featuring traditional Mexican dances and music in the town square. Savor dinner at a restaurant known for its authentic Tequila specialties. As the night unfolds, join a guided night distillery tour to witness the fermentation process under the stars.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| 🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $2-4 |
| 🏨Hotel per night (mid-range) | $40-90 |
| 🧳Souvenirs or bottled tequila | $10-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and world-renowned tequila history
- Compact, walkable town with easy access to distilleries and markets
- Stunning agave landscapes and photo-worthy scenery
- Smaller nightlife scene compared to big cities
- Some attractions require a short drive or tour booking
- Peak tourist periods can bring crowds and higher prices
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "¿Hablas inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "Una cerveza, por favor" - One beer, please
- "La cuenta, por favor" - The check, please
Places to Visit in Tequila
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic pink church and colonial facade in the Plaza Principal—great for morning light and architectural shots.
Historic square framed by arches, clock tower, and locals; ideal for candid street photography and portraits.
Brick arches and copper stills provide a compelling industrial-heritage backdrop.
Rows of blue agave with backdrops of sunrises and sunsets—perfect for landscape photography.
Food in Tequila
Tequila Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Slow-simmered goat with a rich chili broth, served with tortillas and onion/cilantro toppings.
Must-Try!
A comforting hominy soup with meat, chili, cabbage, and lime; perfect with warm tortillas.
Enchiladas topped with a traditional red or green sauce and cheese, common in local eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling market with fresh produce, salsas, tortillas, and everyday snacks perfect for a quick bite.
Grilled corn on the cob or in cups with lime, chili, and cheese—great for a tasty, affordable snack.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with 'Buenos días/tardes' and use 'usted' with strangers or elders. Polite, friendly conversation is valued.
Dress modestly when visiting churches; avoid loud behavior in public and while dining.
Ask permission for people or private spaces; avoid flash in crowded areas during religious events.
Safety
Tipping in Tequila
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, add 10-15% if service is not included. Small tips for guides and hotel staff are appreciated.
Cash is widely accepted; many places take cards. ATMs are common; carry smaller bills for markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with cooler mornings; great for walking tours and outdoor photography.
Hot and sunny with occasional showers in the late afternoon; stay hydrated and seek shade.
Pleasant temperatures and harvest activity in some nearby areas; fewer crowds.
Mild days with cooler nights; ideal for city tours and museum visits without heat fatigue.
Tequila at Night
Hiking in Tequila
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle to moderate trails offering open-country views and photo opportunities at sunrise or sunset.
Scenic routes with orchards, small farms, and distant views of the Tequila landscape.
Short climbs to overlook points that reveal the sweeping agave fields and surrounding hills.
Airports
How to reach Tequila by plane.
Guadalajara’s main international airport, about 60–90 minutes by car from Tequila, with frequent domestic and international connections.
A longer option for international connections; drives or domestic connections can connect to Tequila, typically several hours away by road.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Primarily mestizo communities with deep ties to agave farming, distilling, and regional traditions.
Visitors drawn to distilleries, museums, and agave landscapes; diverse age ranges and interests.
A growing group of visitors who stay longer or own vacation properties in the area.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely followed in the region; local teams and informal pick-up matches are common in the plazas and parks.
Reflects regional ranching culture with events, costumes, and competitive displays.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tequila.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many veg-friendly options exist (beans, corn, rice, fresh vegetables); ask for plant-based preparations and avoid lard-based sauces.