Luxury holidays in Guadalajara

Guadalajara may be Mexico’s second city, but it’s first-class when it comes to culture. Perched on the country’s southern curve, its vibrant plazas and creative spirit have long been a draw for artists, most notably Taller José Clemente Orozco, whose murals adorn the city’s walls, and architect Luis Barragán, whose signature brand of Mexican Modernism can be spotted throughout leafy Lafayette and Colonia Americana. It’s also the birthplace of two of the nation’s greatest exports: mezcal and mariachi music. You can get your fill of both downtown at Plaza de los Mariachis where, come weekends, bars sling agave-infused tipples and locals dance their way into the wee hours. Sample the local delicacy, torta ahogada (a salty pork sandwich with a crunchy exterior), admire the neoclassical architecture of the pueblo viejo, and – with Puerto Vallarta on your doorstep – you’re never too far from a beach.

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When to go

If you’re not a fan of the rain, avoid the city in July and August. Instead opt for the last three months of the year, when climes are balmy and Guadalajara comes alive with festivals and events like Fiestas de Octubre, Día de los Muertos, and the city’s world-renowned International Book Fair.

Getting there

  • Planes

    Guadalajara’s Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla Airport is the city’s main hub, with flights touching down from most major cities in Mexico and the US. For those arriving from the UK and Europe, the easiest route includes a layover at Mexico City Airport, then a direct flight to Guadalajara. From here, it’s a 30-minute drive to the city centre.

  • Automobiles

    There are a couple of underground lines to get you in and out of the city. But if you want to explore the region to its fullest, wheels come in handy. Driving is generally safe, but opt for a vehicle with sturdy tires as the roads are prone to potholes.