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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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

Daniela Herrera
Daniela
Attends English and Italian-speaking travelers

Daniela has always felt a great fascination for exploring the world since she was a young. She has a strong passion for traveling, and for the past few years, she has been living in Mérida, a city that has allowed her to explore the wonderful Yucatan Peninsula with its natural and cultural marvels. As a travel specialist, Daniela is dedicated to meticulously planning completely personalized travel itineraries, enabling travelers to discover Mexico in an authentic way, ensuring unforgettable experiences.

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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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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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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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Leslie Pérez
Leslie
Yucatan Peninsula and Chiapas expert, caters for all types of travellers

She takes great pride in her Mexican heritage and possesses an unbridled passion for travel. With the privilege of having visited 25 different countries, her recent four-year focus has been on uncovering and revealing the concealed gems within her beloved Mexico. Her personal interests are deeply rooted in learning about the ancient history and culture of her homeland, serving as a way to connect with her heritage. Her ideal travel experiences encompass a harmonious blend of outdoor adventures, be it in the mountains or by the beach, coupled with the exploration of cities and towns rich in cultural treasures.

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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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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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Pauline Nourtier
Pauline
Expert in the Yucatan Peninsula and Chiapas, luxury ecotourism and group trips

French-born living in Mexico, she’ll help you embark on a one-of-a-kind adventure, uncovering the treasures of Mexico that often go unnoticed by conventional travelers. Get ready to embrace the magic of Mexico in a whole new light, with a passionate travel specialist who knows how to make your journey truly unforgettable.

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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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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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