Guadalajara

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Eco-friendly travel guide to Guadalajara advises how to be a responsible tourist. Learn how to explore the attractions in a sustainable way and how to respect the local people and culture. Make your trip green by supporting locally owned hotels, organic restaurants and other businesses. Read more on how to protect the environment by making conscientious choices and how to travel green in Guadalajara, Mexico.

Guadalajara

• Air quality: 3.0 / 5

• Exploring by foot: 2.5 / 5

• Exploring by bicycle: 3.0 / 5

• Public transportation: 3.5 / 5

• Parks: 3.0 / 5

• Outdoor activities: 3.5 / 5

• Locals' English level: 3.0 / 5

• Safety: 3.0 / 5

• Accommodation: US$30 - $150

• Budget per day: US$40 - $200

Responsible Travel

Guadalajara is an urban metropolis in Mexico and the capital city of the Jalisco state. This is the third biggest metropolitan city in western Mexico considering its population and has the second-highest population density in Mexico. This is one of Mexico's most important cities, being an international center for finance, business, culture, and arts. When you are traveling to a foreign location, you must travel responsibly and sustainably. While the city has much to offer, you must be very careful when traveling around the city to make sure that you do no harm and give back to the city as much as possible.

Some of the best ways of traveling responsibly when you are traveling to Guadalajara are as follows:

• Public transportation is quite developed in the metropolitan city, and you must make the most of it when traveling around. When you use public transport, you make sure that your carbon footprint is in check, and you also have the ability to make close contact with the locals around the area. There are various modes of public transport in the city, and they will help you travel around quite seamlessly. When you hire a personal car to travel around, while it may seem extremely luxurious, the amount of air pollution it creates is off the charts and can make it very difficult for you to give back to the city as much as possible.

• One of the best ways to venture around the city and build beautiful memories in Guadalajara is by renting a bicycle. A bicycle is one of the best modes of transportation in a foreign location because it lets you discover new places and get a close look into the city without any worry. A bicycle is the most environmentally sustainable means of traveling around, and you will be able to get into the city's close quarters to get a clear picture. All you need is a map and some passion for traveling when you have a bicycle at your disposal.

• No matter where you travel, it is important that you respect the culture and the people around you. You must understand that you are a visitor to their country and must treat them with the utmost respect and love. This city is known for its wide variety of cultural impacts, and you will have much to absorb. Hence you must never be reluctant or rude when you are traveling around and be compassionate for the artist as well as the citizens of this beautiful city. You must always show passion and interest in a foreign land without displaying racism or stereotypical notions.

• When you visit Guadalajara's beautiful city, you must remember that you must never throw your trash around the city. Throw your trash in the allocated trash cans and make sure that you do not purchase plastic or search for unrecyclable materials, which can cause harm to the city.

• Pack your necessities in advance: Some regular sunscreens and cleansers contain hurtful synthetic substances consumed by the sea's delicate coral reef frameworks and add to coral blanching. Before you make a plunge, make a point to utilize reef-accommodating items, for example, biodegradable or mineral-based sunscreens, cleansers, and cleansers. Or on the other hand, consider changing to defensive attire, similar to rash monitors and wet suits, which dermatologists say are similarly pretty much as powerful as sunscreen. On the other hand, make sure to pack in your everyday essentials along with your traveling gear. There is a high chance that you would not find a replacement for your utilities in another country. So, be careful with your packing.

Air Quality and Pollution

Air quality in Guadalajara rests at around 142 AQ, which indicates a moderate amount of pollution in the City. While this air quality is not considered problematic for those who are not sensitive, they are sensitive to pollutants in the air. Guadalajara's air is not considered excessively dangerous, yet those sensitive must make sure that they limit the amount to outdoor activities. However, wearing a mask can help sensitive individuals or even when you are outside.

However, strenuous activities in the city's urban areas might be a little difficult and may lead to some problems. It is advised that you keep your windows closed, especially around the urban areas, to keep dust particles out of your house or hotel room. Wearing a mask when outside and staying inside it is a great way to beat the air and stay healthy in this city.

Respect the Culture

No matter where you are around the world, it is important that you pay respect and tribute to the people and the culture of the place you are visiting. Guadalajara is an extremely beautiful and historically relevant place that has a rich history and tradition. This is a Global City and one of the most important cultural centers in all of Mexico. This city's cultural life is one of the most important and has a wide plethora of cultural offerings that are truly unlike any other city the continent. The city has amazing artwork from various artists all around the globe, and there are International cultural events in this city almost all around the year.

This is truly a beautiful place for history buffs because of the various historic buildings and monuments all around the city. The architectural aspect gives a strong hint of indigenous cultural effects on modern European structures. This is truly a place that has been borne out of many cultures' amalgamation, making it even more interesting and elaborate. The various theatres, galleries, auditoriums, and galleries truly make this place one-two to be discovered. The religious contributions have also led to the introduction of various monuments and interesting curves in history that were to be paid close attention to.

When it comes to art and poetry, it has been home to and has developed several legendary names in all of these departments making this a truly interesting place. If you love to discover cultural aspects and enjoy festivals and fairs that are cultural landmarks of land, this is truly a great place for you to visit.

Top 10 Places to Visit

Guadalajara is one of those cities that has successfully held out to the cultures and traditions that set it apart. While there have been a number of external influences, this city has revealed itself no matter what. Hence the city has a wide variety of beautiful places to visit that you must explore in Guadalajara. The following are some of the must-visit places:

• Guadalajara Cathedral: This beautiful cathedral is located in one of the most picturesque squares of the city, known as Plaza de Armas. This cathedral was built between 1558 and 1616 and almost had a Baroque appearance with the amalgamation of some of the finest gothic designs. When you come here, you must visit the various chapels aligned with paintings of some of the legendary artists, including Miguel Cabrera, Cristóbal de Villalpando, and some of the other best artists of Mexico. The one painting worthy of note iVirgin Mary's Assumption Mary by Murillo, situated over the sacristy doorway.

• Instituto Cultural de Cabañas: This historical monument was previously known as Hospicio Cabañas and is one of the city's most legendary places. This was a hospital and an orphanage built in a neoclassical style in the 19th century. Now, it is house to the Cultural Heritage of Humanity and the Cabañas Cultural Institute, making it one of the city's culturally significant places. While this place has a splendid architectural design to marvel, the design is based in Madrid and Paris, making it even more special. Some of the most elegant murals are located in the ceiling of this building which includes the ever-famous The Man of Fire (El Hombre del Fuego). You will also find a huge collection of artwork by José Clemente Orozco, which is considered the finest of his time. You must take a guided tour here, which is available in English and other regional languages.

• The Government Palace: This palace is located in Plaza de Armas, just a few steps away from the cathedral. This building was inaugurated in 1774, and the construction had started somewhere around 1643. This is a splendid example of Baroque architecture with various zigzag columns all about. The ornamentations and the huge volutes and the Churrigueresque pilasters are truly representatives of the architectural genius around here. What is more exciting here is the interior architecture of this building, including the old staircase as well as the various murals depicting scenes from the independence war.

• Expiatory Temple (Templo Expiatorio del Santísimo Sacramento): The construction for this Temple started in the year 1897, only to be completed in 1972. While this may be one of the most recent city churches, it is still one of the most important religious buildings. The architecture followed a neo-Gothic style, and the exterior is embellished with a variety of European components and concepts. Some of the most important things to be noticed here include the beautifully carved doors that are bejeweled with bronze reliefs, as well as the most exquisite mosaics that have been returned from Italy. A unique and one-of-a-kind German clock is also something to be noticed here. The stained glass windows that France has inspired also decorate the golden altar and make it extremely special.

• José Clemente Orozco's Frescoes: One of Mexico's most well-known painters, José Clemente Orozco's works, is spread out all over the city, making it extremely special and beautiful. Some of his most glamorous works can be found in the Instituto Cultural Cabañas complex. If you have a knack for painting and art, you will seriously find these beautiful creations extremely fascinating and alluring. Some of the biggest murals were painted by him between the years of 1938 and 1939, including the Conquest, Four Elements, Art, and Science, and many more can be found all around the city in various locations. Around the rooms in the complex mentioned above, you will be able to find a variety of artwork that has been dedicated to this talented painter.

• Teatro Degollado: This neoclassical building is located right from the cathedral and is one of the most important locations for performing arts in the city. This building was completed in 1866 and is an extremely fashionable and well-designed theatre that you must visit. The architectural finesse, as well as the exquisite interior design, will truly take your breath away, especially if you have a clue for architecture. The exterior of the building showcases 16 Corinthian columns as well as a marble relief of Apollo and the nine muses. The theatre is very well known for its amazing acoustics, and there is the home to the Guadalajara City Ballet and the Philharmonic Orchestra of Jalisco. This is a beautiful place where you will find a number of performances taking place from time to time. It is truly an architectural marble and something that you will find interesting whether you are interested in music, architecture, art, or culture.

• Rotonda de Los Jaliscienses Ilustres: This beautiful architectural monument is located just outside the cathedral and is one of the most beautiful Park-like places in the City. This monument was built in 1952 in memory of the most well honored historical figures and artists of this city, José Clemente Orozco, and other important figures relevant to the city. This is truly one of the most distinctive monuments and a well-celebrated structure you will find in this city. It consists of 17 columns and some statues of individuals who represent this beautiful city. You must try to visit this place at night when the entire surrounding is lit up beautifully.

• The Churches of Santa Mónica and San Agustin: Guadalajara has some of the most beautiful churches and cathedrals that you can visit very easily. However, this is one of the most beautiful churches, and this is just a few blocks away from the cathedral. It is noteworthy because of its Baroque architectural facade and its twisted columns, which give it an ethereal feel. This Church's interior has various ornamentation like cobs of maize, grapes, angels carved in the most intricate manner possible. San Agustin's church was part of a convent building built in the 16th century and had a beautiful altar and an exquisite interior. The churches in this city are truly mystical and ethereal.

• Guachimontones Archaeological Site: Mexico is known for its indigenous culture, which mostly includes the Aztec and Mayan cultures. However, Mexico is also home to a wide variety of other indigenous tribes who have left their mark in the City. The Teuchitlan people were natives of a place called the tequila valley and situated outside the main city. They inhabited these days from 300 BC to 900 AD. This population's remains can be seen in the valley, along with several spectacular monumental structures that date back to the yesteryears. These compilation structures are known as the Guachimontones Archaeological Site, a circular pyramid-like structure with a glossy floor. This story has an important part 2 plane history and has been well celebrated.

• Barranca de Huentitán: This place is a must-visit for those who have a strong connection with nature. It is just a few hours away from the city and is a great way to spend your day outdoors. This place is located in the city's outskirts and is an excellent area for extreme sports or simply hiking. You can also enjoy the absolutely beautiful view here. This is a great place for you to take your family for a relaxing picnic and spend some time away from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Historic centre of Guadalajara, Mexico

Explore

When you visit Guadalajara, you will find various places to explore, and all of them will truly blow your mind. From beautiful parks to historical monuments, this stunning city has everything you might be looking for, making it the perfect place for a great vacation.

City Parks

There are a number of City parks all around the city of Guadalajara that offer the best place for You to come in close contact with nature and the outside world. These are the best places for you to go for a run or spend some time outdoors. These City parks have beautiful greenery that will help you unwind and relax after a strenuous sightseeing day. Some of these City parks include:

• Fuente de Guadalajara

• Parque Agua Azul

• Expiatorio Park

Fuente de Guadalajara

National Parks

If you have a keen interest in flora and fauna of an area along with the wildlife that is prevalent in various regions in the world, national parks are the best places where you can get as close to nature as you want. The following are the national parks in Guadalajara you will be able to find a close relationship with nature:

• Parque Agua Azul: This is one of the most famous public parks in Guadalajara and has a wide variety of stunning views for you to enjoy. This park is spread over a huge landscape and was inaugurated in the year 1952. It is a huge area covered with greenery and plants. You can come here for a luxurious stroll close to nature to feel at home with mother earth. You will be able to find here an aviary, an orchid house along with a butterfly garden. The Casa de las Artesanías just close by is a great place for you to find indigenous art.

• Bosque Colomos: This is another very important park in Guadalajara with a dense wooden population and a flowing waterway where you will be able to find flocks of ducks. This is a peaceful little getaway in the city with a clean-running track as well as a beautiful Japanese garden that is very tranquil and peaceful. People also come here for bird watching and enjoying the local culture of the land.

Parque Agua Azul

Beaches

While there are no beaches directly in the city of Guadalajara, there are a number of beaches that are just a few hours away from this city. this gives you the perfect opportunity to take a road trip to one of the nearest beaches and spend some time relaxing and enjoying your time in the sand. Some of the nearby beaches include:

• Boca de Pascuales, Colima: You must visit this beach before 10 or 11 in the morning because after that the black sand radiates heat and it becomes very difficult to stand here. You must be very careful when you come to this beach because the waves are quite dangerous if you have a passion for surfing this is one of the most exciting places for you.

• Sayulita Beach, Nayarit, Mexico: This is slowly becoming one of Mexico's most exquisite locations and is very close to Guadalajara. This place has a number of beautiful bars and cafeterias where you can lounge and enjoy your time on the beach.

Boca de Pascuales

Landmarks

Among the various famous places in Guadalajara, most of them have been discussed in the previous sections. This is one of the most exciting cities in the world and hence has quite a few remarkable landmarks that you must check out. Some of them include:

• Guadalajara Zoo: This is an extremely beautiful and scenic zoo where you will be able to find a number of animals and enjoy the view of the overlooking Santiago Gorge. This is undoubtedly one of the most important zoos in Latin America. With a variety of exotic species, including the Royal Bengal tiger, black panthers, white lions, as well as some primates including orangutans, Gorilla, and more. You'll also be able to find your indigenous species of Mexican wolves and more. There is also an exciting aquarium as well as a reptile Centre for you to visit.

• Mercado San Juan de Dios: This is the biggest market in Guadalajara and this one of the most exciting places here. You will be able to find some of the freshest produce as well as even live animals, and each and every shopkeeper has the best deal to offer. As a tourist, you will find a number of things to take back home, along with some of the most exciting Mexican crafts. However, you should make sure to bargain a little before settling on a deal.

Guadalajara is one of the most exciting places with a wide variety of places to visit.

Museums

Guadalajara is an exciting place because of its various historical events as well as an extremely cultural town. If you want to get a slice of what the city has to hold, you must visit the various museums all around the city. Some of the museums that you must visit are as follows:

• Hospicio Cabañas

• Tlaquepaque and Tonala Artisans Tour

• Instituto Cultural Cabanas

• Wax Museum (Museo de Cera)

• Museo Regional de Guadalajara

• MUSA Museo de las Artes Universidad de Guadalajara

• Museo Pantaleon Panduro

• Ceramic Museum (Museo Regional de la Ceramica)

• Paseo de las Artes Chapultepec

Eat

Mexico is known for its great culinary spread, and when you come to Guadalajara, you will be able to find some of the most exquisite and creative food that will make your mouth water instantly. This place has some of the most traditional as well as contemporary options that will blow your mind. If you love to eat and experiment with yourself, Guadalajara is a great place for you to find exciting new eating opportunities that are nothing like the things you have had before.

Traditional Local Restaurants

Guadalajara's traditional food brings forth the essence of Mexican cuisine with a touch of elegance and modernity. You will be able to find your exclusive dining experiences offering the best of Mexican food as well as indigenous options to die for. Some of the most exciting traditional local restaurants of Guadalajara include:

• El Hueso

• Lula Bistro

• Restaurante Alcalde

• Allium

• Café P'al Real

• Lúcuma

• La Trompada Caligari

• Karne Garibaldi

Vegetarian and Vegan

Guadalajara is one of the most upcoming and modern metropolitan cities of Mexico. No matter what lifestyle you follow, you will find delicious food here without any worry. There is a greater danger of vegetarian and vegan restaurants in Guadalajara serving more than just salads and offering some of Mexico's most delectable food items.

The following are some of the best vegetarian restaurants in the City:

• Vegetariano Zanahoria

• Vrindavan Deli

The following restaurants with amazing vegan as well as vegetarian options in Guadalajara:

• El Vegano

• Falafel Marsella

• Edén

• El Jardin

• La Flaca

• Avellana Vegana

• Krishna Vegan

Street Food

Mexican street food is enticing and popular not only in Mexico but also around the globe. Naturally, when you come to Guadalajara, one of the most exciting cities in Mexico, you must try the various Street foods of Mexico. It would help if you tried the delicious enchiladas, tacos, tostadas, pozole, and much more than the city has to offer. While you may have already had a bite of these foods where you live, the flavor and the complexity employed in this food in the various street food joints of Guadalajara are truly unparalleled. Here are some of the street food destinations that you must visit for some mouth-watering food:

• Santo Goyote

• Cenaduría Esther

• Tacos Luis

• Super Takko Tors

• Tortas ahogadas Enrique el Viejo

• Hot Dogs El Chino

Drink

Being one of the most enticing cities in all of Mexico, Guadalajara's drinking situation is rather exciting. You will find some of the most happening bars all around the city and find great cocktails and mocktails in your average restaurants. If you do not like to indulge in drinking alcoholic beverages, you must look into some amazing cafeterias.

Tap-water

The tap water in Guadalajara or any other Mexican city is not fit for human consumption. Please refrain from buying numerous plastic bottles when you are in the City. Instead, look for reliable water filters where you can refill your bottles without causing pollution.

Organic Cafés

Guadalajara has a number of organic cafes for you to enjoy your morning coffee or a fit glass of juice. Here are some of the organic cafes you might enjoy:

• Café Chai Vallarta

• Café Maya Gold

• Neretta Café & Gelato

• Café Finca Riveroll

• Freshii

• Chai Rosas

Breweries

Some of the most famous and upcoming breweries of Guadalajara include:

• Cerveza Loba

• Cerveza Cuatro Plumas

• Cholos Brewing

• 7 Mares Cervecería

• The Garden

Activities

Guadalajara has opened up a number of activities and fun things to do when you are in town. If you like to shake things up and do something new every time you travel, you will find a wide variety of options in the City.

Yoga and Retreats

There are a number of yoga retreats that you will be able to find in Guadalajara. This is a great opportunity for you to revive and unwind.

Accommodation

Being one of the most prominent economic and business centers in Mexico, Guadalajara has a wide range of accommodations available all around the city. Whether you want to stay in a Deluxe luxurious hotel or want to live in someplace, that will not burn a hole in your pocket, and you will be able to find it all in the City. It is an exciting place for you to spend some days and offers refreshing locations for your stay.

Green Hotels

While there are many great hotels in the city of Guadalajara, it might be a little difficult for you to find an environmentally sustainable one. However, even if you do not find a green hotel in Guadalajara, you must put effort into making your system as environmentally conscious as possible. Some of the most simple yet sustainable means include making sure that you use recyclable units and not waste electricity when staying in Guadalajara.

Hostels and Guest Houses

Living in a hostel or guesthouse in Guadalajara is one of the best ways to make sure that you can stay for a long while in the city without having to burn a hole in your pocket. Not only is it economically viable but also an environmentally sustainable means of staying in a foreign location. Some of the best hostels and guest houses in Guadalajara include:

• BOHOSTEL

• Hostel Hospedarte Centro

• Olga Querida B&B Hostal

• Hostal Hidalgo Rotamundos

• Hostal Americana

• Casa Kush Wellness Hostel by Rotamundos

• Casa Canario Hostel

• Posada Margaritas

• Casa de Luz

• Casa Arrayan

• Casa Colores Hostal

• Casa Ixaya by Barrio México

Apartments

If you wish to spend a number of days living in Guadalajara, living in an apartment is one of the most economical ways. The number of beautiful Apartments situated all around the city some of which are as follows:

• Staybridge Suites Guadalajara Expo

• Apartamentos West End

• Suites BQ

• Park Life Guadalajara

• Apartamentos Buenos Aires

• Suites Everness

• Hermosa habitación en el corazón de la ciudad

Couchsurfing

You will be able to find some of the best Couchsurfing options in Guadalajara at www.couchsurfing.com.

Camping

If you like to live close to nature, camping is a great way to find Guadalajara accommodation. Some of the most exciting campsites in the city include:

Aces High RV Park

How to Get There

When you wish to visit Guadalajara's city, there are a number of ways you can get to the city. It is one of the most well-connected cities in Mexico because of its prime importance.

Air

The official airport to enter Guadalajara's city is Libertador Miguel Hidalgo International Airport, connected to the main city by the Guadalajara-Chapala Highway. There are a number of major airlines that fly to and from the city. There are two terminals in the airport; however, terminal 1 is the most prevalent one.

Miguel Hidalgo International Airport

Bus

Central Nueva is the mean by a station which is situated in the suburb of Tonalá. It serves major routes all around the Jalisco state. There are a number of companies that operate from this bus terminal. Traveling by bus is quite affordable and highly opted.

Buses in Guadalajara

Train

Guadalajara is not connected by train stations nearby.

Hitchhiking

Hitchhiking is a great way of reaching the city of Guadalajara. It is very well connected and has a number of public transport options going to and from various other places.

Others

There are no other means of getting inside the city of Guadalajara.

Moving Around

Moving around Guadalajara is quite seamless, going to the various public transportation options available all around the city. It is advised that you use public transport options as they are better for the environment and help you save money.

Walk

The top sightseeing locations of Guadalajara are more or less nearby. Hence it is a great option for you to walk around the city and explore the various relics. Walking around this city is considered safe, and you will be able to find things that you would otherwise miss in a speeding car or bus.

Bicycle

There are a number of bicycle renting services in Guadalajara, and they are all quite inexpensive. You will also be able to find various places to park your bicycle safely. It is possible to explore this beautiful city's various monuments and landmarks with your bicycle and definitely an option that you must consider.

Electronic Vehicles

Electronic vehicles are not very popular in Guadalajara.

Public Bus

The public bus system is very well sorted in Guadalajara and is understood around most of the neighborhoods. You will be able to find bus routes going to almost all areas of public interest, which is a great way of getting to know the locals of the area. While it may be a little difficult for you to understand the various bus routes and bus numbers, you will be able to find various buses at an interval of about 5 to 10 minutes. Bus services can be availed from 5 a.m. to 11 p.m. making it an extremely reliable option for venturing into the city.

Tram, Train and Subway

The Subway system of Guadalajara is rather simple and is not quite complete.

Sustainable Shopping

Sustainable shopping is one of the most important practices when you are traveling responsibly. This is the best way to empower the local craftsman of an area and respect their craft. It is important that you buy fresh, local, and craftsmen themselves rather than buy from the big manufacturers. No matter where you go, you must always adopt the various principles of sustainable shopping.

Food Markets

The various food markets of Guadalajara include:

• San Juan de Dios

• AVOMARKET

• La tienda de muchachon

• Abarrotes y pronósticos Irma

• Food market in Calle Chícharo

Flea Markets

Some of the flea markets in Guadalajara are as follows:

• Tianguis Panteón Nuevo

• Tianguis de la Quinta Velarde

• Tianguis The Baratillo

• Tianguis De Santa Tere

• Guadalajara Antique Market in Antonio Pedro Buzeta

Second Hand Stores

Second-hand stores in Guadalajara include:

• Con B DeVintage

• Lavanda, Vintage & Bazar

• Mi Armario Bazar

• Lavanda Vintage

• Baby Vintage

Eco-Fashion

While you may not find various eco-fashion brands in Guadalajara, there are some thrift stores and second-hand stores where you will find great clothing items.

Recycling

There are quite a number of recycling centers in Guadalajara, some of which are as follows:

• Recolectora Y Reciclados De Guadalajara Sa De Cv

• Reciclajes Guadalajara

• Recicladora de Vidrio Guadalajara

Waste

Guadalajara has shown a prominent increasing number of recycling units making it more environmentally sustainable as the days go By.

Work and Study Abroad

The city of Guadalajara is one of the most important cities in the state of Jalisco and the entirety of Mexico. For this reason, people from all over the country come here seeking job opportunities or studying. This is an important city that offers platforms to people from all around the world in order to fulfill their dreams and aspirations.

Exchange Student

Guadalajara receives quite a number of exchange students from all around the world.

Au Pair

Au pair jobs and services are very prevalent in Guadalajara, and you will be able to find people responsible and affectionate with the help of a number of organizations.

Volunteering

You will be able to find volunteering gigs in Guadalajara that range from a time period of three weeks to a full year. These Volunteering programs are available from a variety of organizations that you must look into.

See Also

• Europe | List of Countries in Europe | List of Cities in Europe

• North America | List of Countries in North America | List of Cities in North America

• Asia | List of Countries in Asia | List of Cities in Asia

• South America | List of Countries in South America | List of Cities in South America

• Oceania | List of Countries in Oceania | List of Cities in Oceania

• Africa | List of Countries in Africa | List of Cities in Africa