A full day in Guadalajara

Vacation time is approaching, and you might be thinking about where to travel this season.

If you're planning a visit to the Pearl of the West, here are some recommendations for how to spend a full day in the city.  

If you're like us and can't start your day without a delicious breakfast paired with your morning coffee, then your first mandatory stop is Café Sinónimo. This spot stands out for its delicious menu that gives you the "pure power" you need for your day. Their chilaquiles or their chilaquiles sandwich are truly spectacular, served with egg or chicken just the way you like. If you're looking for something lighter, you can't miss their avocado toast with smoked salmon or pork rinds. With this flavor combination, you'll have the energy to get around everywhere.  

Before you head out, let yourself be tempted by their exquisite bakery, which is perfectly crispy and fluffy. My favorites are the cinnamon rolls or their croissants, but they have plenty of options for every taste.  

If you enjoy walking, you can take a long stroll through the beautiful streets of the Colonia Americana and enjoy the city's great weather as we head to our next stop: the Templo del Expiatorio and its plaza.  

This imposing neo-Gothic symbol of the city was designed by architect Adamo Boari in 1897. It is especially known for its famous tall towers, stained glass windows imported from France, detailed interior decor, and its unique facade made of pink quarry stone from the areas surrounding Guadalajara. It's a must-see on your tour.  

It is one of the city's most important architectural monuments and treasures, and your visit will be a unique experience. Take a close look at every detail of its iconic design and style: the tall columns supporting Gothic vaults and the light streaming through its grand windows, creating an impressive atmosphere.  

For those who love a cultural touch to their day, our next stop, just a few steps from the last one, is the MUSA (Museum of the Arts). This is one of the exhibition spaces with the most to offer culturally in Guadalajara, focused on the understanding, promotion, and enjoyment of artistic expression.  

Some of their current exhibitions include “Murals by José Clemente Orozco”and“Artistic Expressions in Contemporary Europe.” Admission is free, but we recommend checking their current schedule before your visit. They are open from 10 am to 6 pm, but please note that they are closed on Mondays.  

After a long morning, we couldn't skip this dining recommendation: a delicious Torta Ahogada, one of the most iconic and traditional dishes in Jalisco. This delicious meal is a staple of Mexican cuisine, made with the city’s famous salty “birote” bread, filled with carnitas, and drowned in a savory, hot tomato sauce seasoned with chili, garlic, and other spices. It is served with lime, onion, radishes, and extra chili.  

There are many variations of the original recipe, but the essence lies in the combination of the crusty bread and the soaked sauce. Experts say that to truly experience its texture and great flavor, the only rule is to eat it with your hands.

In the capital of the torta ahogada, there are endless options. Our favorites are “Tortas Toño,” a delicious choice with several locations throughout the city, making them easy to find. So, let us know which ones are your favorites so we can check them out!  

And to wrap up your day in the city on a high note, we recommend grabbing a few drinks at “Gallo Altanero,” a fun bar located on the second floor, where the creative cocktails and extraordinary music selection will set the perfect mood to end your night in Guadalajara. We recommend arriving early, as the wait can be a bit long, but we promise it will be totally worth it.

We hope you enjoy this tour as much as we did, and let us know what other spots you’d like to add to the list.  

See you soon!