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.

The Best Places to Stay in Jalisco

For a Contemporary City Stay

• Demetria Hotel is a contemporary city pad in central Guadalajara. Its 39 rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows for amazing views, there's a rooftop pool, and a funky art shop and gallery. A trendy city stay with industrial materials and a minimalist feel.
• Casa Fayette promises cool, crisp interiors, with plenty of glass, brass accents and touches of colour against an otherwise white-on-white palette. This Guadalajara gem boasts 37 swish rooms and suites, a small plunge pool and a chic cocktail bar. Great for hip grown-ups eager to party and see the city.
• Hotel Amapa is a wonderfully romantic adults-only hotel in Puerto Vallarta's Old Town. Pick this place for its stylish, slow living vibe, striking sunsets and community-minded atmosphere. Highlights include glorious sea views, a rooftop infinity pool, great beach club and soothing wellness treatments. Ideal for couples keen to experience both the city and the coast.

For Luxurious Opulence

• Hacienda San Angel is a beautiful colonial property set high above Puerto Vallarta's cobbled streets. The 20 elegant, luxurious suites feature traditional textiles and antiques, and the superb rooftop restaurant boasts spectacular views. Intimate, adults-only bliss.
• Hotel Solar de Las Animas promises a bold, sophisticated stay close to the Santiago Apostol Church in Tequila. Think carved wooden headboards atop big cosy beds, vintage rugs and striking old town views. The two characterful bars are perfect for sipping the hotel's many tequilas as the sun sets.
• Casa Kimberly offers nine lavish, antique-filled rooms in a romantic villa overlooking the Bay of Banderas in Puerto Vallarta. Book a suite for a private plunge pool, unwind in enormous bathrooms with free-standing tubs, and feast on Mexican specialities at the Iguana Restaurant. A sumptuous couples' hideaway.
• Quinta Real Guadalajara is an expansive, opulent property in a leafy residential neighbourhood within walking distance of central Guadalajara. The 76 rooms and suites features antique furnishings, spacious marble bathrooms and flexible spaces for couples or families. Lounge by the pool and savour impressive buffet breakfasts before heading out to see the sights.

For a rural hacienda

• Hacienda Labor de Rivera is a classic countryside escape for families or couples. Just an hour from Guadalajara, the traditional property has 20 large and lavish rooms, as well as extensive grounds with an array of activities, including horse-riding, kayaking, cycling, walking trails, holistic treatments and fantastic Mexican food. A tranquil spot with lots for the whole family to see and do.
• Hacienda Sepulveda features 25 gorgeous rooms and suites in rural Jalisco. Ideal for couples, the hotel offers horse riding opportunities, a swimming pool and an indulgent spa with rejuvenating treatments. Traditional interiors boast vintage pieces, exposed stone walls and lots of character. One for romantic couples dreaming of a secluded spa break with gourmet fare.
• Hacienda El Carmen Hotel & Spa promises a spoiling spa retreat in a majesitc hacienda. Nestled in Ahualulco de Mercado, this historic property offers spell-binding Tequila Volcano views and stacks of old-school grandeur. Families will love the onsite mini-golf course and the free bicycles. The elegant library is a particular highlight, too. Great for couples or families.

For an Eco Retreat

• Cuixmala is a beautiful beachfront eco-resort, set on a 30,000-acre nature reserve. Hide away in one of 40 gorgeous suites, casitas and villas. Think orange-painted exteriors and white interiors with striking pops of colour and handwoven textiles. Charming and luxurious, the property boasts delicious Mexican fare, as well as heaps of activities — from surfing to horse-riding — in a pristine natural environment. There are impressive eco-projects, too. One for families, groups or honeymooners.
• Las Alamandas is a fun and funky boutique beach resort tucked amidst a 1,500-acre nature reserve. Featuring just 16 suites, this is an intimate choice for couples, groups or families, with bright, bold design, excellent facilities — including an indulgent spa — and fabulous food. A tranquil eco-hideaway.
• Verana is a remote eco-lodge built into the jungle. Arrive in Yelapa by boat and hike through the lush forest to find a collection of ten bedrooms and bungalows nestled on the hillside. The views over the bay are spectacular, there's a fantastic spa, and umpteen activities on land and sea, including riding, hiking, fishing, snorkelling, waterfall swims and cookery classes. A secluded jungle oasis for adventurers.
• Xinalani is a rustic, adults-only yoga retreat 12 miles south of Puerto Vallarta. Only reachable by boat and with limited internet access, this is the perfect place to reconnect with nature. Enjoy twice-daily yoga sessions, meditation, health-conscious food and an appealingly indoor-outdoor feel. A stunning coastal escape for yogis.

For Great Value

• Casa Pedro Loza is a charming heritage hotel in the heart of historic Guadalajara. Pick this place for its central location, romantic elegance — think high ceilings, vintage furnishings and local artwork — and great value.
• Villa Ganz offers ten gorgeous suites in the quiet, central neighbourhood of Zona Rosa, within easy reach of Guadalajara's main sights. A tranquil, family-run B&B, this is a top choice for an affordable boutique stay in a historic building.
• Grand Hotel Boutique is an adults-only pad in Tepatitlán de Morelos, in the Jaliscan Highlands. Stay here for European architecture, 13 distinctly themed suites — the lavish Marie Antoinette suite boasts an appealing hot tub — and the onsite art gallery. A lovely base for discovering the region's many attractions. Very reasonably priced.
• Gran Casa Sayula promises a wellness-focused stay, with a brilliant onsite spa, and 20 blue-and-white guestrooms in a restored 18th-century property. There's lots to see and do in Sayula, and guests of all ages are welcome at the hotel. A well-priced historic base for a Mexican spa break.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR VILLA

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

• Fly to Mexico City, and take a short connecting flight to Puerto Vallarta or Guadalajara, both in Jalisco. Alternatively, fly directly to either of those hubs, and travel by bus or car to your destination.
• Jalisco is a great region to explore by road. Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Expect balmy temperatures throughout the year, and dry weather from November to May. Do consider avoiding the rainy season (June to September), unless you're happy to spend some of the day hopping from one cafe to another!

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Guadalajara.
• Consult our recommendations of the 15 Best Beach Hotels on Mexico's Pacific Coast.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in Mexico.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in Jalisco