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Guadalajara is the capital city of the state of Jalisco and the second largest city in Mexico. The true heart of this incredible city is Centro Historico, its oldest section. Here you will see beautifully preserved buildings dating back to the colonial era. While the whole city is very nice and fun to see, this, the Centro Historico really takes the cake. Did you know Guadalajara is the birthplace of tequila? There are over two hundred varieties in this city alone! Couple that with the fact that mariachi music started here too and you’re looking for a good time. Good food, great weather, and intoxicating nightlife make this city simply irresistible to any traveler. Book your flight with student universe, hop a plane, and come to Guadalajara!

Guadalajara Pictures

Things to do in Guadalajara

Districts separate the various sections and essences here. Each one contains its own culture. Centro Historico is where you will most likely spend the majority of your time. José Clemente Orozco’s important mural paintings are still preserved here along with many old buildings. Spend your time walking around and taking in the sights. Guadalajara Cathedral, finished in 1618 is a mix of Gothic, neoclassical and palladian architecture. Plaza of the Crosses are four Plazas shaped like a cross with the Cathedral at the center. Palacio de Gobierno, or Governer’s place, is directly to the left of the cathedral. This building houses those famous paintings by José Clemente Orozco. Looking for those famous mariahci bands? Plaza de los Mariachis has a wealth of restaurants where mariachi players will serenade you for as little as $7 – 10. Jose Cuervo has a distillery here as well and the tour is always a nice activity while in Guadalajara. It includes the tour of the facility and factory, tastings, and a free margarita. Lots of fun for all college students. Why not go as a group and then stop by their own restaurant?

Nightlife in Guadalajara

Keep your eyes peeled for blanca, reposada, and añejo when venturing out at night. They are the types of tequila you will want to try while here. College students, especially when on spring break, love to bar hop and this city definitely facilitates it. There are multiple “pub crawls” and college nights and local bars. Make sure you look for those bars with a large selection of tequila. And also you will want to double check that the tequilas being served are the local authentic stuff, you will be able to tell the difference from the stuff you drink at home right away. This tequila is so much better. Zapopan’s center is an all time favorite for bar hopping. There are over 12 bars right in the center!

Dining in Guadalajara

The traditional dishes of Guadalajara are Birria, pozole, and tortas ahogadas if you are looking for the real authentic experience. Birria is a stew made with roast chiles, spices, and traditionally goat. Pozole is another stew made with pork, and is finished off with fresh cabbage, radish, onion and cilantro. Tortas ahogadas are sandwiches stuffed with carnitas and beans and served on a french style roll. They are usually topped with chile and hot sauce. You will definitely want to grab some of this at any of the local food vendor carts here. La Rinconada is an excellent example of fine Mexican cuisine and a college student favorite.

Shopping in Guadalajara

Shopping here is a lot of fun. There are so many street sellers pushing anything from knick-knacks to fine products at ridiculously low prices. In general Mexico has a reputation for bootlegged items and inexpensive trinkets and Guadalajara is no exception. Just be wary of the fact that these goods may be stolen or illegally produced. For the most part however this will not be an issue. You will in fact get great deals on movies, DVDs, electronics, fine good, and local crafts. For people on a budget it makes a nice stop to pick up something to take back with you after your trip. While you can technically go shopping anywhere in the city, Tlaquepaque’s Old Town District is a known and reputable shopping market. Fine glass and pottery products are sold here as well.

Guadalajara travel tips

• The 275-diagonal bus route is the only real public transportation offered.
• The currency is the peso.
• The official language in Guadalajara is Spanish.