Things to do in Jalisco

In this guide, you'll find all the information you need to plan a vacation trip to this amazing region.

Why travel to Jalisco?

Visiting Jalisco is an immersive journey into Mexico's cultural heartland, where colonial architecture, vibrant markets, and stunning natural landscapes converge to offer travelers a rich tapestry of experiences. From the birthplace of tequila in the rolling agave fields to the bustling streets of Guadalajara and the tranquil beaches of Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco captivates with its diverse offerings. The state's culinary scene delights with traditional dishes like birria and pozole, while its festivals, including the International Mariachi and Charrería Festival, showcase the region's rich cultural heritage. With a vibrant arts scene, breathtaking scenery, and warm hospitality, Jalisco beckons travelers to explore its treasures and immerse themselves in the essence of Mexico.

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Things to do and see in Jalisco

Jalisco offers a rich tapestry of experiences, including vibrant mariachi music, world-famous tequila, historic and cultural landmarks, beautiful beaches, and dynamic festivals.

How to get to Jalisco

  • Flights to Jalisco
  • Take a bus
  • Drive yourself
  • Guided tours
  • Taxis and ride-sharing
  • Biking and walking

Flying to and from Jalisco is convenient due to the presence of several airports in the state. The main airports in Jalisco are:
Guadalajara International Airport (GDL): Located in Guadalajara, the capital city of Jalisco, this is the largest and busiest airport in the state. It offers domestic and international flights to destinations throughout Mexico, North America, and select cities in Central and South America.


Puerto Vallarta International Airport (PVR): Situated in Puerto Vallarta, along the Pacific coast of Jalisco, this airport serves as a major gateway to popular tourist destinations in the region. It offers domestic and international flights to cities across Mexico, the United States, Canada and Europe.

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Jalisco has an extensive network of buses that connect major cities and towns within the state. In Guadalajara, the capital city, the urban bus system is efficient and affordable, making it easy to navigate the city and its surrounding areas.

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Renting a car is a convenient way to explore Jalisco, especially if you want the flexibility to visit remote areas or take day trips to nearby attractions. Major car rental companies have offices at airports and in larger cities like Guadalajara and Puerto Vallarta.

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Some tourist attractions in Jalisco offer shuttle services or guided tours that include transportation to and from popular destinations, providing a hassle-free way to explore the region's highlights.

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Taxis are readily available in cities and tourist destinations throughout Jalisco. While they are more expensive than public transportation, they offer a convenient way to travel within urban areas or for short distances.
In addition, services like Uber and Didi are available in cities like Guadalajara and Puerto Vallarta, providing an alternative to traditional taxis for getting around urban areas.

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Many cities in Jalisco, including Guadalajara, offer bike-sharing programs or rental services, making it easy to explore urban areas on two wheels.

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Explore the benefits of visiting Mexico all year round
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Attend the Fiestas de Enero in Tlaquepaque, featuring live music, traditional dances, and artisan markets.

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Celebrate Carnaval in various cities across Jalisco, including Guadalajara and Puerto Vallarta, with colorful parades, music, and dancing.

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Attend the International Mariachi and Charrería Festival in Guadalajara, featuring mariachi music, rodeos and cultural events.

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Experience Semana Santa (Holy Week) celebrations in towns and villages across Jalisco, including processions, reenactments, and religious ceremonies.

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Explore the Sierra de Manantlán Biosphere Reserve for hiking, birdwatching, and eco-tourism activities.

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Visit the picturesque town of Tapalpa for outdoor adventures such as hiking, horseback riding, and zip-lining.

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Explore the beach towns of Puerto Vallarta and Sayulita for surfing, snorkeling, and beach relaxation.

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Explore the agave fields and tequila distilleries in the town of Tequila, learning about the production process and tasting the iconic spirit.

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Visit the town of Sayula for its annual Feria del Elote (Corn Festival), featuring food stalls, agricultural exhibitions, and cultural events.

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Attend the Festival Cultural de Octubre in Guadalajara, featuring a diverse range of cultural events, including music concerts, theater performances, and art exhibitions.

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Experience the Day of the Dead celebrations in towns and villages across Jalisco, including colorful altars, processions, and cultural events.

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Visit the town of Tlaquepaque for its annual Posadas Navideñas (Christmas Posadas), featuring processions, music, and traditional Mexican food and drinks.

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What's the best time to visit Jalisco

Jalisco offers a diverse range of attractions and activities year-round, making it an enticing destination no matter the season.

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Our local guides take on the best time a year to visit Mexico

Safety information when visiting Jalisco

Before going on vacation to Mexico, most of the tourists ask the same question:  Is it safe to travel to Mexico? The answer is yes, you can visit most of the states without a problem, and Jalisco is no exception. This region thrives on tourism, so the locals will want you to have the best experience possible. But like any other place, there are some precautions you should take.

01. Be Street Smart
02. Respect Local Customs and Laws
03. Avoid High-Risk Areas
04. Use Reliable Transportation
05. Stay Informed

Where to Stay in Jalisco

Staying in Guadalajara, which is at the center of the state of Jalisco, is the general rule. From there, you can drive to various traveler sites and plan day tours or full-day adventures to explore the surrounding tequila distilleries, historic towns, and picturesque landscapes.

Depending on the number of days you want to spend in Jalisco, our travel experts will tell you the best places to stay. Let us be your DMC in Mexico!

FAQs & things to know about Jalisco

Jalisco is renowned for its cultural and historical significance, vibrant traditions, and natural beauty. It is the birthplace of mariachi music and tequila, two iconic symbols of Mexican heritage. The state boasts the bustling city of Guadalajara, known for its colonial architecture, cultural festivals, and the Hospicio Cabañas, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Jalisco's picturesque landscapes include the scenic town of Tequila, surrounded by blue agave fields, and the stunning beaches of Puerto Vallarta on the Pacific coast. The state's rich folklore, traditional dances like the Jarabe Tapatío, and lively festivals such as the International Mariachi Festival, further highlight its cultural richness.

01. What should I pack for Jalisco?
02. How many days should I stay in Jalisco?
03. Is Jalisco safe for tourists?
04. What is the best time to visit Jalisco?
05. What are some of Jalisco's most popular dishes?

Meet our travel expert guides and agents

Who made this possible

Sheila Cerón
Sheila
Tourism professional with over 20 years abroad, specializing in personalized Mexican adventures, hidden gems, and local gastronomy.

Hi! I’m Sheila, a proud Mexican with over 20 years of experience living abroad in Germany, which deepened my love for Mexico’s vibrant culture, rich traditions, and unique flavors. With years in the tourism industry, I specialize in creating personalized, unforgettable journeys that reflect your dreams. Passionate about nature, hidden gems, and local gastronomy, I’m here to make your Mexican adventure extraordinary—let’s start planning your next experience together!

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Giulia Baiona
Giulia
Sustainable tourism expert from Italy, specializing in art, photography, and crafting unique journeys across Mexico’s vibrant culture and natural wonders.

I’m Giulia, originally from Milan, Italy, and now proudly calling Mexico home. With a master’s in sustainable tourism and a love for travel, art, and photography, I’ve explored Mexico’s vibrant culture, from bustling cities to serene beaches and majestic waterfalls. Let me help you craft a unique and unforgettable journey through this incredible country!

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Karen Quintero
Karen
Central Mexico and Oaxaca Coast specialist, focusing on couples

A proud Mexican hailing from the small city of Tlaxcala. Over the past four years, she has been dedicated to exploring the diverse landscapes of Mexico and has developed a profound appreciation for the authentic Mexico she has come to adore. It's a Mexico brimming with culture, natural wonders, and warm-hearted people. What sets her apart is her commitment to traveling with a positive impact and forging meaningful connections. Karen is eager to share her wealth of experiences and knowledge to assist you in crafting an authentic journey through Mexico that reflects her passion and values.

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René Rodarte (Garuda)
Garuda
Expert in Chiapas, Oaxaca, Yucatan Peninsula and family tours

Mexican who holds a deep love for travel, values environmental awareness, and seeks to glean knowledge from diverse global cultures. He firmly endorses travel as a means of fostering positive personal growth and development. Recognizing that his homeland ranks among the world's top tourist destinations, he’s dedicated to ensuring that every visitor enjoys the most exceptional experience possible.

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Karen Pinilla
Karen
Custom travel designer, expert in tailored Colombian experiences

Karen, born in the country's capital, is a Tourism Professional who has been part of the Awake Travel team for over six years. She creates customized trips and experiences across Colombia, tailored to meet the needs of every traveler, from the most adventurous to those seeking maximum comfort during their journey. Passionate about Colombia, she will help you create the best trip so you can truly experience and feel the essence of this beautiful country.

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Hugo Romero
Hugo
Travel expert with over 10 years of experience, specializing in Bacalar, Cochinita Pibil gastronomy, and authentic Mexico City experiences.

Hugo brings over a decade of experience in the travel industry, making him an expert in his destination. For food lovers, he offers top-notch restaurant recommendations and tips on savoring the best Cochinita Pibil. If nature calls to you, Hugo will guide you to the breathtaking Bacalar lagoon and its historically rich surroundings. Planning a visit to Mexico City? Let Hugo, a true local, show you how to experience this iconic city like a resident, uncovering its authentic charm.

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Leo Mallet
Leo
Specialist in the Yucatan Peninsula, Morelia and Chiapas, expert in group trips

French-born living in Mexico who enjoys sharing his passion for this wonderful country with you through its various aspects: its archaeological temples, numerous museums, nature outings by the sea or in the jungle, the diversity of its cuisine, and the richness of the local communities with whom we are fortunate to work.

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Andrea Gramai
Andrea
Riviera Maya expert, couples and family tours

Residing in Cancun, he has had the privilege of embarking on comprehensive tours of the Yucatan Peninsula, as well as exploring portions of Chiapas and Mexico City. With over fifteen years of global travel and work experience, his heart was captured by Mexico a few years ago. As a seasoned travel consultant, he excels in crafting custom itineraries for some of the world's most exclusive destinations, with a particular expertise in this fantastic country. Andrea is here to provide his expertise and support for travelers' needs.

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Gus Garcia
Gus
Nature enthusiast and Mexico City local specializing in Oaxaca, Querétaro, and Mexico City, combining international travel experience and local expertise.

Gus, a proud "Chilango" from Mexico City, is passionate about exploring nature, hiking, and camping, always seeking new adventures. He cherishes connecting with locals, enjoying scenic views with a cup of coffee, and playing his guitar. With extensive experience visiting iconic destinations like Oaxaca, Mexico City, and Querétaro, Gus combines his perspective as an international traveler and a local guide to help visitors fully embrace the beauty and essence of Mexico.

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Luis Camacho
Luis
Travel planning specialist passionate about cultural exchanges and sustainable tourism, offering authentic Mexican experiences that support local communities.

Hi! I’m Luis, a travel planning specialist excited to help you organize an unforgettable trip to Mexico. As a proud Mexican who spent a year in France, I’m passionate about cultural exchanges and sharing the beauty of my country’s landscapes. With Rutopía, our local agency dedicated to sustainable and authentic tourism, I’ll provide top recommendations while ensuring your trip supports local communities and creates lasting memories.

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Brendan Hanrahan
Brendan
Custom travel designer, expert in tailored Colombian experiences

Brendan, originally from Dublin, Ireland, found his second home in Colombia after backpacking through South America over 12 years ago. Colombia captivated him more than other countries due to its vibrant people and the sense of feeling truly alive while there. His passion for nature and protecting Colombia’s rich biodiversity has led him to his dream job, sharing the country’s hidden beauty with others. Brendan's mission is to show the world why Colombia is a gem, offering unique cultural experiences, stunning nature, and life-changing adventures. Every day in Colombia is an exciting journey that deepens his connection to the country and its incredible spirit.

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Lauren Nadot
Lauren
Central and South East Mexico expert. Luxury and group trips

French-born living in Mexico, with 12 years of experience in tourism, specializing in crafting off-the-beaten-path adventures in Mexico. With a deep passion for exploration and a profound love for the country. She takes travelers on a journey beyond the typical tourist hotspots. Her unique itineraries unveil the hidden gems of Mexico, showcasing its lesser-known archaeological wonders, secluded natural wonders, and vibrant local cultures.

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Gabe Regis
Gabe
Yucatán Peninsula specialist, passionate about sharing Mexico’s culture, history, and cuisine through sustainable adventures and unforgettable experiences.

Gabe Regis is a passionate traveler who found a deep connection with Mexico after exploring its vibrant culture, rich history, and mouthwatering cuisine. specialized in adventures across the Yucatán Peninsula, Gabe has developed a profound love for Mexico’s stunning landscapes, ancient traditions, and warm people. His enthusiasm for traveling and discovering new places fuels his mission to share these extraordinary experiences with others, while, of course, helping preserve the environment.

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Javier Herrera
Javier
World traveler with cruise ship experience, fluent in four languages, specializing in creating unique experiences in Mexico for families and couples.

Hi there! I’m Javi, and my adventures have taken me around the globe while working on a cruise ship, allowing me to visit nearly 100 countries. Along the way, I’ve picked up three additional languages beyond my native tongue. With all this travel experience, I can confidently say that Mexico stands out as the best destination, offering a truly unique experience for you and your loved ones.

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Lisa Brissac
Lisa
Specialist in Central Mexico, Oaxaca Coast and Chiapas, ideal for young or older couples, honeymoons and ecotourism

A French-born but Mexican at heart, and she will be your local specialist for your trip. "Mucho gusto!" as they say here! Since living in Mexico, she has had the opportunity to explore magical villages, local customs, sandy beaches, and has fallen in love with its aromas and colors. What a joy to know that you have chosen to discover the diverse ancestral culture of this multifaceted country!

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Sofía Durand
Sofía
Expert in Central Mexico, the Pacific Coast and the Yucatan Peninsula, specialising in trips for young and old couples

She is an enthusiastic outdoor enthusiast with a fervent passion for travel. Originally from Yucatán, she has devoted her life to exploring the natural wonders of Mexico and immersing herself in its vibrant culture. As a traveler, she firmly believes that the best way to experience a new place is by connecting with its people and uncovering its hidden gems.

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Leslie Mercier
Leslie M
Attends French-speaking travelers

A French-born and an adoptive Mexican. She’ll be glad to introduce you to this fabulous country, Mexico, its beaches, its must-visit archaeological sites, its cuisine, and the various local communities with which she collaborates. Living in Playa del Carmen, she has had the opportunity to travel all around the Yucatan Peninsula and also to visit parts of Chiapas, Oaxaca, and Mexico City. She enjoys engaging with locals, getting lost in villages, and discovering the best restaurants!

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Diego Olivares
Diego
Expert in the Yucatan Peninsula and tours for groups of friends

Proudly Mexican and having immersed himself in the heart of Mexico's diverse regions, he curates experiences that allow you to venture off the tourist trail and discover the authentic essence of the country. From exploring ancient ruins tucked away in remote jungles to savoring the rich tapestry of Mexican cuisine in local markets, his alternative routes promise a deeper, more meaningful connection to Mexico's beauty and heritage.

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