Nestled on Mexico’s western side, the fascinating state of Jalisco offers an impressive array of experiences for adventurous travellers — including historic cities, spectacular Pacific coastline and lush, jungle-clad hills. The home of tequila and mariachi music, this is a bright, bold and brilliant destination for those looking to experience classic Mexico. Accommodation options are wide-ranging, with everything from laid-back B&Bs to swish city hotels catering to a whole host of budgets. Whilst many of the best places to stay in Jalisco are in the region’s vibrant cities, some of our top spots are tranquil and secluded, perfect for a romantic retreat.
Begin your explorations in the state capital of Guadalajara, notable for its grand colonial architecture, fabulous food and lively local art scene. This cultural hub features excellent museums and an exciting annual programme of food, art and music festivals. Other intriguing towns include Tequila — where excellent distilleries invite tours and tastings — and the cool mountain town of San Sebastián del Oeste. Dotted amidst the remote hill villages of the state’s interior are extensive haciendas, ideal for active families looking to hike, ride, cycle and visit archaeological sites, or for relaxed romantic couples eager to unwind at serene spas.
If you’re dreaming of pristine Pacific beaches, on the other hand, make your way to Puerto Vallarta, famed for its cobbled Old Town and botanical gardens, as well as world-class diving, snorkelling and whale-watching. Follow the coast further south to Majahuitas, Quimixto and Yelapa for beautiful beaches and treks into the jungles of the interior. Within the verdant greenery, there are nature reserves and eco-projects aplenty to discover, as well as horse-riding, waterfall swims and wildlife-spotting.
Whether you’re tempted by the hip and happening food and festival scene, looking to kick back in a swanky heritage hotel, or hoping to hide away in absolute seclusion, our pick of the best places to stay in Jalisco promises a seriously special Mexican escape.
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Jalisco (Talpa de Allende)
A charming boutique hotel located in the heart of Talpa de Allende. Beautifully renovated rooms keep the building's original features (exposed beams and tiled floors) but the walls are whitewashed and there's modern furniture. With a terraced restaurant and bar, this is an easy city base.
Guadalajara (Col. Vallarta San Lucas, Guadalajara)
A smart modern hotel located just outside the Historic District. Spacious rooms are simple and clean in their design with large swathes of glass, crisp white linen, and dark wood furniture. The roof terrace with a pool, bar, and restaurant is the real lure. A well-priced city stay.
Guadalajara
This charming hotel occupies a colonial-style building in the historic centre of Guadalajara, Mexico. Guestrooms feature a blend of modern and heritage furnishings, plush linens and regional artwork; book a luxury suite for two balconies with city views. Dine at the chic restaurant; a refined stay.
Jalisco
Discover a fusion of European architecture, Mexican design and luxury amenities at this boutique hotel in the Jaliscan Highlands. Elegant suites are styled around distinct themes; book the Marie Antoinette suite for 18th-century opulence and a hot tub. Visit the hotel art gallery; an indulgent stay.
Jalisco (Jalisco)
An historical hacienda, surrounded by picturesque countryside, close to the archaeological zone of Guachimontones. Airy, colonial style, rooms have been carefully restored with antiques and traditional fabrics. Expect horses wandering outside, hammocks slung beside the lake and traditional cuisine.
Guadalajara
A family-run boutique property in the quiet and central neighbourhood of Zona Rosa. The ten suites are beautifully styled in homage to the building's original design; filled with antiques and local artefacts. With the city's main attractions nearby, this is a luxurious and convenient choice.
Jalisco
A stunning boutique property set in picturesque rural Jalisco. Individually designed rooms are traditional in style with high beamed ceilings, exposed stone, hanging tapestries and antique furniture. Gourmet cuisine is served in the converted barn and exemplary massages offered in the spa. Fabulous.
Guadalajara (LAFAYETTE-GUADALAJARA-JALISCO )
An uber contemporary hotel located in the heart of Guadalajara. Sleek rooms feature floor to ceiling windows allowing for epic city views to be enjoyed right from your bed. Plus a hip art shop, gallery and rooftop pool. With easy access to the city's main attractions this is a winning choice.
Jalisco
This historic hotel is located on a majestic hacienda in Ahualulco de Mercado, overlooking Mexico's Tequila Volcano. Rooms feature preserved heritage details; original tiles are softened by oriental rugs and period furniture gives an elegant feel. The spa is utterly spoiling. A refined luxury hotel.
Jalisco (Jalisco)
This chic, heritage hotel is located in an 18th-century property in Sayula, Mexico. Guestrooms are bright and spacious, with traditional tiled floors and dark wood accents; book a suite for extra living space. Dine at the charming restaurant after booking into the Terracotta Spa; a stylish getaway.
Guadalajara (Guadalajara, jal)
An ultra-cool contemporary hotel in an equally hip part of town. Beautifully designed rooms are all glass, clean lines and modern fixtures. Unwind over a massage, try your hand at meditation, lounge by the pool or sip a cocktail at the chic bar. Well located for exploring the city. Superb.
Jalisco
Nestled beside the landmark Santiago Apostol church, this colonial-style hotel sits in the heart of Tequila. Creole design permeates the guest suites, with statement wooden furniture, traditional textiles and dramatic Mexican architecture. Relax by the outdoor pool; a luxury city bolt-hole.
Jalisco
A vibrant small hotel set on the beach in La Manzanilla. Rooms are contemporary and bright with bold colours, dark wood furniture, and large glass sliding doors leading onto private terraces. There are two outdoor pools and a popular international restaurant. A relaxed choice for a beach break.
Guadalajara (Vallarta Nte)
Quinta Real Guadalajara is nestled in a leafy residential area, a short walk from the city centre. Feel like a VIP in their elegant suite-style accommodation featuring antique furnishings and marble bathrooms! Hop in the pool after a busy day sightseeing for a refreshing dip. Utterly charming.
Jalisco (Yelapa)
Nestled on a hillside surrounded by native jungle, this bolt-hole is the best-kept secret of Yelapa. In the individually designed suites, exposed stone juxtaposes with thatched roofs and open-air terraces with ocean or jungle views. Book the Pool House for a private pool; a unique eco hotel.
Jalisco
A tranquil resort set amidst a private ecological reserve and just steps from a white sand beach. Rooms mix traditional charm with contemporary style; think beamed ceilings, white washed walls with bright pops of colour. Feast on healthy fresh Mexican cuisine and unwind under the sun. Bliss.
Puerto Vallarta (Centro)
Located high above Puerto Vallarta's cobblestone streets, the elegant Hacienda San Andres features colonial architecture and turn-of-the-century furnishings. Their 20 luxurious suites offer wonderful views whilst their rooftop restaurant serves up exquisite cuisine. A truly magnificent spot!
Puerto Vallarta
A wonderfully romantic villa boasting stunning views of the Bay of Banderas. Individually designed, colonial style suites feature white washed walls, exposed beams, dark antique furniture and heavenly bathrooms. Iguana Restaurant serves contemporary Mexican cuisine. Utterly beautiful.
Jalisco (Puerto Vallarta)
Find tropical paradise in Sir James Goldsmith's former property. Large rooms are light and airy with white washed walls contrasted by bright turquoise splashes. Dine on Mexican delicacies in the restaurant (private casas get their own chefs) and enjoy any of the numerous activities. Fabulous.
Puerto Vallarta (Puerto Vallarta South Shore )
A rustic-chic yoga retreat on the stunning coast 12 miles down from Puerto Vallarta. Only reachable by boat, limited connectivity, open-air bathrooms and daily yoga sessions guarantee that you will get in touch with nature. The food is health conscious and they cater for vegan and gluten free.
