Guadalajara sits in the heart of Jalisco, surrounded by the blue agave fields that produce tequila, the shores of Mexico’s largest lake, and some of the country’s most beautiful colonial towns. Here are the best day trips from Guadalajara. For getting around Guadalajara and reaching these destinations, see the transport guide.
Tequila Country
- Tequila (1 hour each way): The town that gave the world its most famous spirit, surrounded by endless blue agave fields that stretch to the horizon. The agave landscape is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Several major distilleries offer tours: Jose Cuervo (La Rojena, the oldest distillery in Latin America), Herradura, Sauza, and numerous smaller craft producers. Tours typically include the agave fields, the production process, and a tasting. Book tours in advance, especially on weekends. The town itself is a Pueblo Magico with a charming main plaza, the Santiago Apostol Church, and several good restaurants. The Jose Cuervo Express train from Guadalajara offers a premium experience with tastings on board and spectacular agave field views (about USD 150). Buses from Guadalajara’s Central Vieja terminal take about 1 hour. For things to do in Guadalajara, the tequila experience is unmissable.
- Amatitan and the Tequila Route: Between Guadalajara and Tequila, several smaller towns offer a more intimate tequila experience. Amatitan is home to several boutique distilleries. The Tequila Route (Ruta del Tequila) can be explored by car, stopping at distilleries, agave fields for photos, and small restaurants serving traditional Jalisco food. A rental car gives the most flexibility.
Lakes and Nature
- Lake Chapala and Ajijic (45 minutes each way): Mexico’s largest freshwater lake, ringed by mountains and dotted with charming towns. Ajijic is the most popular, a lakeside Pueblo Magico with a large expat community, colourful streets, a pleasant malecón (boardwalk), and a relaxed pace. The lake views are beautiful, especially at sunset. Good for a leisurely lunch by the water, browsing galleries, and escaping the city heat (the elevation makes it cooler than Guadalajara). Buses run regularly from the Central Vieja terminal. About 45 minutes each way. Combine with a visit to Chapala town or a boat ride on the lake.
- Bosque La Primavera (30 minutes): A protected forest west of Guadalajara, popular for hiking, mountain biking, and hot springs. The Rio Caliente area has natural thermal pools. Weekends are busy with local families. Access by car; no public transport. Bring water, snacks, and sun protection.
Colonial Towns and Artisan Villages
- Tlaquepaque and Tonala (20 to 30 minutes): These two former independent towns are now part of the Guadalajara metro area but retain distinct identities. Tlaquepaque is a beautifully preserved artisan town with pedestrian streets lined with galleries, craft shops, and mariachi bands. Tonala hosts massive Thursday and Sunday street markets. Both are easy trips by Uber or light rail. The best neighborhoods in Guadalajara guide covers them in detail.
- Mazamitla (2 hours each way): A Pueblo Magico in the Sierra del Tigre mountains, known as the “Mexican Switzerland” for its alpine-style architecture and pine forests. Cooler temperatures, hiking trails, cabins with fireplaces, and a charming central plaza. Popular for weekend getaways. About 2 hours by car or bus from Guadalajara. A longer day trip or better as an overnight.
- Tapalpa (2 hours each way): Another mountain Pueblo Magico with cobblestone streets, whitewashed buildings with red roofs, and dramatic rock formations (Las Piedrotas) in the surrounding countryside. Quieter than Mazamitla. Popular with Guadalajara residents for weekend escapes. Paragliding is popular here for the adventurous. About 2 hours by car.
