There are quite a number of reasons Guadalajara is one of our favourite Mexican cities to visit, but topping that list is the way it’s both historic and progressive, and really vibrant with it; it feels authentically Mexican, so it’s cool; and it’s got Latin America’s largest indoor food market, which is surrounded by a thriving culinary scene. And the best places to stay in Guadalajara are surprisingly affordable, so it’s easy to come here for a proper explore!
If you want to stay near the Mercado San Juan de Dios, the 40,000square metre leviathan of commerce, with space for almost four thousand different stalls, the Centro area is probably the best place to base yourself. This part of town has a cluster of Guadalajara’s colonial architecture, and is also where you’ll find the wonderful cathedral and impressive Instituto Cultural de Cabañas. Foodies might also appreciate a visit, or a stay, in the Chapultepec neighbourhood, which is bustling with innovation and hipster zeitgeist.
Arcos Vallarta is where you’ll find some of our most stylishly contemporary recommendations, and it’s very close to the centre of town too, while Tlaquepaque is a somewhat residential feeling area great for local handicrafts, and the Zapopan district is another part of town with elegant colonial buildings, including an imposing stone archway and the majestic 17th-century basilica.
A number of very Mexican treasures have developed in Guadalajara, including mariachi music, and the Mexican hat dance, and the corresponding wide-brimmed sombreros. But, and here’s the clincher, Guadalajara is just across the beautiful stretches of blue agave fields from the small town of Tequila, and its incredible 200-year old distillery.
Our pick of the best places to stay in Guadalajara all ensure a classy stay in this fascinating city, whatever your taste or budget.