Guadalajara on a Budget
Guadalajara, Mexico
Sights
Guadalajara is a city of colonial plazas, public parks, and impressive churches. Many visit to explore the history evident in the city's layout and architecture. Located at the heart of the city is Guadalajara Cathedral, or Cathedral of the Assumption of Our Lady, which was built during the 16th and 17th centuries and houses the relics of St. Innocent. Other notable churches include the 17th-century Franciscan sanctuary of Basilica of Our Lady of Zapopan and the Templo Expiatorio del Santisimo Sacramento, known for its Italian mosaics, clock tower, and stained glass.Another unique monument located at the heart of the city near the main cathedral is the Rotonda de los Jaliscienses Ilustres, showcasing 17 fluted columns in honor of the state's artists, musicians, and historical leaders. With landmarks like this one, and countless historic plazas, the city itself is a museum to the past it has seen. Also a part of this history is the El Panteon de Belen, or Belen Cemetery, dating back to 1786. Today the site is a place of legend and folklore, with night tours offered to the unafraid.
Neighborhoods
The historic Centro, or downtown, is very navigable on foot. Most attractions are concentrated here, as it is the oldest section of the city where it was first founded. The very center is marked by Plaza de Armas, a rectangular pedestrian area with gardens, iron benches, and a unique 19th-century band stand. In addition to this main plaza, there are many squares and public parks throughout the downtown area, some of which include the Plaza de la Liberacion known for its two fountains, the large Plaza Tapatia which is near a traditional market (southeast of the plaza), and the Plaza de los Mariachis across from restaurants where visitors can hear live mariachis play. To the north of Plaza de Armas are landmarks including the ornate Guadalajara Cathedral and the Rotonda de los Jaliscienses Ilustres.Another important hub of activity is the Avenida Chapultepec, a wide pedestrian boulevard lined with trees, fountains, cafes, bars, shops, and a daily afternoon flea market (or "tianguis"), central to the neighborhood of Colonia Americana. Other important areas include places like Revolution Park near the University and its art museum, and additional green spaces like Morelos Park and Parque Agua Azul. Opportunities for dining, shopping, and accommodations can be found throughout the city center.
Activities
From watching football (aka soccer in the U.S.) to shopping amidst the city's many pedestrian neighborhoods (such as Tlaquepaque, which has the feel and charm of small-town Mexico), Guadalajara has something for everyone. Within the city many visitors also frequent the Guadalajara Zoo, known for its many species, train tours, and aquarium, as well as the Parque Agua Azul, which features an outdoor theater, butterfly house, aviary, and playgrounds.For options outside the city, consider a day trip to the town of Tequila-home to Mexico's national spirit. The town sits in a volcanic valley lined with rows of blue agave, from which the liquid is distilled. The 200-year-old distillery of Jose Cuervo is also open to visitors with a train ride and tour of its facilities, including traditional snacks and tequila samples.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.