Victoria Lupascu 
Welcome to Mexico’s second-largest city, the capital of Jalisco state, and the home of tequila and mariachi! Since I’m sure you want to visit, in this post, I will help you decide where to stay in Guadalajara, Mexico, by walking you through the top areas and the best hotels in the city.
For this post, I’ve compared the different Guadalajara areas and carefully selected accommodations with amazing reviews and top-notch services so you can have the best holiday yet! And to make things even easier, I’ve broken them down by price, so you can find a place to suit your budget.
Guadalajara is a beautiful city with historical buildings and colonial character, most of them located in Centro or the old town of Guadalajara. As such, the best area for your Mexican holiday is definitely Centro!
Just keep in mind that Guadalajara is a super famous destination, and all the good hotels will sell out super fast, so definitely book yours in advance!
I hope you’re ready for lots of margaritas!
Quick Picks for Your Stay
If you want to book now, there’s no reason to wait – just browse through this list of the best hotels in Guadalajara, located in the city center:
Contents
- Quick Picks for Your Stay
- 1. Centro – where to stay in Guadalajara for the first time
- 2. Zapopan – where to stay in Guadalajara with family
- 3. Colonia Americana – trendiest place to stay in Guadalajara
- 4. Zona Expo – the best place to stay in Guadalajara for events
- 5. Financial District – the best place for luxury travelers
- 6. Chapalita – where to stay for budget travelers
- 7. Tlaquepaque – where to stay in Guadalajara for art lovers
- Practical tips for your stay in Guadalajara
- BONUS: Best hotels to stay in Guadalajara near the Airport
- FAQs about where to stay in Guadalajara
- Conclusion
Watch my video, it will give you a visual explanation of all the areas:
Here’s a map showing the 7 Guadalajara areas I’ll be talking about in this post:
- City Center: for first-timers
- ZAPOPAN: for families
- Colonia Americana: trendiest place
- Zona Expo: for events
- Financial District: for luxury travelers
- Chapalita: for budget
- TLAQUEPAQUE: for art lovers
1. Centro – where to stay in Guadalajara for the first time
Are you eager to discover the city’s history, stunning architecture and see all the important tourist attractions? Well, then, you’ve come to the right place! The Centro Histórico, or just Centro for short, is a vibrant area that makes up the downtown area of Guadalajara. It’s also home to the historic center!
That is the recipe for a perfect holiday. If you choose to stay in Guadalara’s downtown area, you’ll be a stone’s throw away from the must-see attractions. For example, places like the Los Dos Templos (map) and Plaza de la Liberación (map) will be within walking distance from your hotels!
Yep, the Centro has it all! And that’s not all… You’ll also find great restaurants where you can try the traditional food and great bars to drink Margaritas all night long! One of the best restaurants in the area is La Chata de Guadalajara – the ultimate spot for authentic Mexican cuisine.
In the Old Town, the main attraction is the Guadalajara Cathedral (map), and it’s a fine example of stunning Renaissance architecture. And if you’re into architecture, there are more styles to discover here, such as Art Nouveau, Baroque, Colonial, and Neoclassical.
Centro, much like all the best neighborhoods for tourists, is quite safe during the day. However, the area may not be as safe after dark, with street crime being the biggest threat. Avoid walking around Centro at night – it’s a better idea to get a taxi to your hotel.
Of course, you’ll need an awesome hotel for your holiday, and Centro has some of the best accommodations in Guadalajara! And if you’re thinking of visiting other parts of the country, Mexico City, the capital, is always a good idea!
I love that the hotels in Guadalajara have a traditional design, and this one is no exception! Located near the biggest tourist attractions, this luxury accommodation has a spa center and a swimming pool! Head to the hotel’s lounge area, get a Mexican cocktail, and listen to some live music. There’s also a restaurant on-site, a terrace, and free Wi-Fi.
Other accommodation options in City Center
This comfortable hotel is close to the main attractions and has a bar and a buffet restaurant
Make new friends at this hostel that has private rooms, and a shared kitchen, and organizes tequila nights!
A 1-bedroom cozy apartment has an en suite bathroom, and a kitchenette, and provides access to a shared terrace
Things to do in City Center
- Pay a visit to the Guadalajara Cathedral
- Shop in the Mercado Libertad (map), the largest indoor market in Latin America
- Spend a relaxing afternoon at Parque Morelos (map)
- Listen to the mariachi play in Plaza de los Mariachis (map)
- Take a premium Maestro Tequilero tour
- Spend some time in the Plaza de Armas (map)
2. Zapopan – where to stay in Guadalajara with family
Located just 5 miles (8 km) Northwest of downtown Guadalajara (a 20-minute drive), this vibrant area is an independent city but still part of the Guadalajara Metropolitan area. Just like downtown Guadalajara, this city has many historic buildings, restaurants, and bars. Luckily, it’s not so crowded and has a more relaxed atmosphere, so it’s the perfect choice if you’re traveling with your family.
FUN FACT: The name Zapopan comes from the ancient Aztec language and means ‘among the sapote trees.’
The area is quite large and more modern and upscale than Centro; you’ll see quite a few skyscrapers and urban buildings throughout Zapopan. But since it’s so big, it’s important to choose the right place to stay. I suggest staying in downtown Zapopan, near Plaza del Sol, in the Southeastern part of the city, so you’ll be close to the Guadalajara city center.
The most important tourist attraction in Zapopan is the Basilica of Our Lady of Zapopan (map), a popular landmark that became even more famous after Pope John Paul II visited it. The 17th-century building features stunning Plateresque architecture and a famous image of the Virgin Mary, of which it is said to have performed many miracles.
If you’re a shopping aficionado (and even if you’re not), you can’t miss the Andares Shopping Mall (map). This high-end shopping center is one of the largest malls in Latin America and features many designer stores, bars, and a food court.
Don’t worry. I’ve got some nice attractions for the little ones as well. There are a few parks in the area, like the Guadalajara Metropolitan Park (map), but the star of the show is Villa Fantasia Zoo (map). It’s going to be tough getting the kids out of there, that’s for sure!
If you’re lucky, you can even catch a concert at Auditorio Telmex, located in the University Cultural Center, one of the most important concert halls in Latin America. As for accommodation, you won’t be disappointed by the options – there are some great chain hotels like the Hyatt Regency and Hard Rock Hotel – check out my recommendations below.
Hyatt Regency Andares Guadalajara
The rooms at this 5-star hotel are designer-decorated in soothing colors and boast many amenities, so you’ll feel right at home. Guests are also invited to use the hotel facilities, including the indoor pool and the fitness center, and enjoy the view from the terrace while sipping a drink from the hotel’s bar.
Other accommodation options in Zapopan
Guests at this hotel will benefit from air-conditioned rooms, free private parking, and access to a pool and a garden
Each of the hotel rooms has a private bathroom, Wi-Fi access, and a flat-screen TV, and some even have balconies
This spacious apartment has 2 rooms, a kitchen, a backyard where the kids can play, and free wifi
Things to do in Zapopan
- Shop at the Plaza del Sol shopping mall
- Explore the nearby Providencia neighborhood
- Check out the many shopping opportunities at Andares Shopping Mall (map)
- Visit the Basilica of Our Lady of Zapopan (map)
- Spend a relaxing afternoon at Guadalajara Metropolitan Park (map)
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3. Colonia Americana – trendiest place to stay in Guadalajara
Situated 3 miles (4 km) East of the City Center, Colonia Americana (also called Col Americana) is home to many hip coffee shops, cool nightclubs, and restaurants. This neighborhood is the best place to stay in Guadalajara for young people looking for a lively atmosphere and the trendiest spots in town.
The urban atmosphere reigns over the neighborhood, and the mix of restored mansions and historic buildings brings great value to the city. I highly recommend exploring the area on foot to discover all those hidden architectural gems!
Colonia Americana’s biggest tourist attraction is Templo Expiatorio del Santísimo Sacramento (map), a Catholic church with stunning Italian mosaics! You should also stop by the Glorieta de los Niños Héroes tower (map) and the Arcos Vallarta monument (map).
But let’s not forget about all the trendy bars here! What better way to get to know the country’s culture than to taste all its traditional drinks! Some of my favorite spots to grab a drink in town are Hudson Bar (map) and Porter Bar (map). Better yet, the area is very safe, you can have a fun night about without worrying about your well-being.
While here, I highly suggest you pay a visit to the Museum of the Arts University of Guadalajara (MUSA) and explore Avenida Chapultepec, affectionately called Chapu. This a place bustling with life, especially at night, when the avenue comes alive with the sound of the street musicians, and people drinking in the bars and dancing in the streets.
Downtown Guadalajara is also not too far, so you can always just walk there or use public transport if you want to visit Guadalajara Cathedral and the historical center!
Enjoy working out with a view of the city in this luxury hotel that has spacious rooms equipped with flat-screen TVs. Take a long relaxing bath in the tub, order some room service, and get ready for another day of sightseeing around Guadalajara, or head down to the hotel’s restaurant to eat your breakfast.
Other accommodation options in Colonia Americana
A lovely boutique hotel with air-conditioned rooms, a terrace, free parking and Wi-Fi, and a tour desk
An affordable option for a Guadalajara stay, this hotel has a restaurant, a shared lounge, and a terrace
Such an instagrammable place, this studio has a great design, lots of space, a kitchen, and a balcony
Things to do in Colonia Americana
- top by the Templo Expiatorio del Santísimo Sacramento
- Snap a photo of the Glorieta de los Niños Héroes tower
- Pay a visit to the Zapopan Art Museum
- Spend a couple of hours in an escape room at Fox in a Box Guadalajara
- Go for a stroll at Parque Revolución (map)
- Take a tour to learn about Mexican Charros and take part in a Charreada
- Explore the collection at the Museum of the Arts University of Guadalajara
4. Zona Expo – the best place to stay in Guadalajara for events
This modern, upscale area is home to Expo Guadalajara, a big convention center located South of downtown Guadalajara. Zona Expo is an area bustling with life, just 4 miles (6 km) away from the center, in Colonia Valle Verde, and it’s the perfect place to stay in town for business travelers or people attending convention center events.
Expo Guadalajara is the largest event space in the city, and it hosts all the major trade fair events, conferences, and exhibitions in Latin America. So, if you’re coming to stay in Guadalajara specifically for this reason, then book your hotel here – there are plenty of hotels, especially business chains.
If you find yourself craving some delicious and fresh food, the best place to go is Mercado de Abastos (map). Here, you can get various fresh fruits and vegetables, but there’s also an amazing food court if you want to have a full meal.
Apart from the convention center, there isn’t much to do at Zona Expo, but you can rest assured that you’ll find many dining options here to sample all the Mexican food of your dreams. But the surrounding areas, like Centro and Ciudad del Sol in Zapopan, are filled with museums and shopping centers you can visit by using public transport.
Go for a swim in the pool and relax after your event in this luxury hotel. The accommodation offers spacious rooms, some stunning views of the city, and 2 on-site restaurants. Wake up, have a delicious breakfast and a cup of coffee, and get ready to attend another day of events at Expo Guadalajara.
Other accommodation options in Zona Expo
This lifestyle hotel has an on-site bar and a restaurant, while the rooms have private bathrooms and many modern amenities
Offering on-site dining, room service, and comfortable guestrooms, this hotel is conveniently located right next to Arboledas Expo Center
Enjoy your stay in Guadalajara in this spacious apartment that has 3 rooms, a kitchen, and a balcony
Things to do in Zona Expo
- Check out the Expo Guadalajara event center
- Catch a concert at Trasloma Park (map) in Zona Expo
- Grab a bite to eat at Tacos El Chino Jr. (map)
- Venture out to Bosques de La Victoria Park (map)
- Go shopping at Mercado de Abastos
5. Financial District – the best place for luxury travelers
Located just 5 miles (8 km) Northwest of the city center, this neighborhood is one of the most expensive areas of the city, filled with high-end hotels, gourmet restaurants, and luxury shops. Best of all, this is one of the safest places to stay in Guadalajara!
So, if you’re going all out with this holiday to Guadalajara, Mexico, and money is not an issue, then I highly recommend booking a place to stay in the Financial District. A lot of big companies have their headquarters here, so if you’re coming to Guadalajara on a business trip, the Financial District might be a good idea for you, too!
I don’t know about you, but I always buy something to wear or an accessory from each particular country when I travel. Luckily, Midtown Jalisco Shopping Center is home to many luxury stores where you can find just that.
So, after you’ve checked in at your fabulous hotel, have a delicious dinner at one of the fancy restaurants and spoil yourself with a shopping session!
During your stay at this upscale hotel, you can exercise in the fitness center, use the top-notch business center, or go for a swim in the outdoor pool. You should also try one of the contemporary dishes served at the restaurant and try one of the specialty cocktails at the hotel bar.
Other accommodation options in Financial District
Each of the suites at this aparthotel is air-conditioned and features a safety deposit box and a flat-screen TV
Enjoy your stay in this boutique hotel with amenities like air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and daily housekeeping services
A spacious loft with a comfortable bedroom, a full kitchen, dining and seating areas, and access to a private pool
Things to do in the Financial District
- Spend a day shopping at Midtown Jalisco Shopping Center
- Check out the Glorieta Colón monument (map)
- Have dinner at Campomar Providencia
- See what’s on at Charles Chaplin Theatre (map)
- Embark on a guided tour to explore the Amatitán caves and the town of Tequila
6. Chapalita – where to stay for budget travelers
Just 5 miles (8 km) Northwest of downtown Guadalajara and the historical center, this residential area is a great place to stay in the city if you’re looking for super affordable accommodations and restaurants that have good prices.
I love staying in areas most frequented by local people. That way, I can observe their little quirks and lifestyle and enjoy the authentic experience of visiting Guadalajara. If you do, you’ll be happy to know that is exactly how Chapalita is! The neighborhood doesn’t see so many tourists so you can easily learn many things about how the people live here.
One of the first things you’ll notice about the area is the architecture; Chapalita is recognizable for its modernist and Art Deco architecture, but there are also plenty of parks and green surfaces where you can relax and unwind.
While here, check out the Sunday market at the Art Garden of Chapalita (map), and at night, find a good spot to watch the lights changing on the Puente Matute Remus bridge (map).
Although the area is pretty quiet during the week, as the weekend approaches, you’ll see all the local bars and restaurants filled with people. So put your dancing shoes on and get out there to listen to mariachi music and drink some cocktails!
Unlike the rest of the areas featured in this post, Chapalita doesn’t have too many hotels. However, there’s still a very decent selection of options for all budgets. And don’t worry – I handpicked only the very best ones (featured below)!
Bask in luxury at this 5-star hotel with spacious rooms and suites decorated in avant-garde style and modern amenities like high-speed Internet and a keyless system. As a guest, you can dine at the restaurant serving Mediterranean cuisine or relax in the hotel spa and out on the sundeck.
Other accommodation options in Chapalita
A 3-star hotel offering a free airport shuttle, a gym, a business room, and a complimentary buffet breakfast each morning
This guesthouse has a lovely garden where you can unwind, free private parking, and a 24/7 front desk
Go for a swim in the shared pool of this Guadalajara apartment that has 2 rooms and a kitchen
Things to do in Chapalita
- Visit the Sunday market at the Art Garden of Chapalita
- Eat some Mexican food at Los Chilaquiles Lázaro Cárdenas (map)
- Take a pic of La Estampida monument (map)
- Venture out of the neighborhood to see the Arcos del Milenio sculpture (map)
- Watch the lights at Puente Matute Remus bridge
7. Tlaquepaque – where to stay in Guadalajara for art lovers
Tlaquepaque is a charming city in the Mexican state of Jalisco, situated 6 miles (10 km) Southeast of Guadalajara’s city center or a 20-minute drive away. Officially known as San Pedro Tlaquepaque, the city has an eclectic vibe due to the colorful buildings, art galleries, colonial-era churches, and mariachi bands playing in the streets.
When in Tlaquepaque, you cannot miss Umbrella Street, a portion of the Calle Independencia pedestrian street covered with umbrellas in different colors. This is also a great place to get some souvenirs from Tlaquepaque because this street is lined with various shops selling cool stuff.
I also recommend checking out the Benito Juarez municipal market (map), where you can also get interesting souvenirs native to the region. Other cool spots you should visit are the Refugio Cultural Center, which hosts many art exhibits, and the Ceramic Museum.
If you want to spend some time outdoors, I recommend taking a walk through Jardín Hidalgo (map) or planning a day trip to Lake Chapala, Mexico’s largest freshwater lake. It would also be a good idea to visit Tonalá, a nearby city renowned for producing traditional Mexican pottery. It’s just a 30-minute drive from Tlaquepaque, and it’s definitely worth making the trip.
This boutique hotel is one of the most unique places to stay in Guadalajara, with traditional Mexican decor and modern amenities. Guests will enjoy the 2 outdoor pools, the spacious and individually decorated rooms, and a daily hot breakfast. All rooms are air-conditioned, too, and some even have a private hot tub!
Other accommodation options in Tlaquepaque
This colorful hotel boasts an outdoor pool, a sun terrace, room service, and private parking, but also offers concierge services
A quaint hotel with a pool, a shuttle service, a tour desk, and rooms with private bathrooms and free Wi-Fi
This bright and spacious home has 3 bedrooms, a modern kitchen, a living room, and 2 full bathrooms
Things to do in Tlaquepaque
- Explore the many shops at Umbrella Street
- Try the churros at El Parián de Tlaquepaque (map)
- Spend a morning admiring the Pila Seca Garden (map)
- Pay a visit to the Parroquia San Pedro Apóstol church (map)
- Check out the local art and craft shops and admire the many street performers
- See the exhibition at the Ceramic Museum
- Go for a relaxing stroll at Jardín Hidalgo
| 👑 Luxury price: | US$120 |
| 💵 Mid-range: | US$80 |
| 🛏️ Budget: | US$40 |
| 📍Best area: | Centro |
| 🛎️ Best luxury hotel: | Hotel Morales |
| 🧳 Best mid-range hotel: | Hotel Portobelo |
| 👛 Best budget hotel: | Hostel Hospedarte Centro |
Practical tips for your stay in Guadalajara
Visiting a new city can sometimes feel overwhelming, so I decided to give you some tips that will make your trip much easier:
- Don’t drink tap water: the water from the tap is not safe to consume, so be sure to always buy/order bottled water
- Tip at least 10%: tipping is part of Mexican culture, and it’s considered rude not to leave a tip
- Get an Uber instead of a taxi: although Guadalajara is quite walkable if you need to get somewhere quick, get an Uber, as taxi drivers tend to overcharge tourists
- Bring an umbrella: if you’re traveling in summer, be sure to bring an umbrella, as rain showers are a daily occurrence in Guadalajara
- Drink tequila: Mexico is a country known for its tequila, so be sure to try at least several different types, but remember to drink responsibly!
BONUS: Best hotels to stay in Guadalajara near the Airport
I know booking your hotel near the airport can be convenient for lots of reasons when you visit Guadalajara, especially if you’re just passing by on your way to another place. If that’s the case, you probably don’t want to waste lots of time and money on accommodation in the center.
That’s why I thought it would be a good idea to make a list of the best accommodations to stay near the Guadalajara airport – featured below:
- Fiesta Inn Guadalajara Aeropuerto ($$$) – offering a free airport shuttle, this 4-star hotel also features a swimming pool, a restaurant, and an on-site ATM.
- Hangar Inn ($$) – all rooms at this hotel are air-conditioned, with a private bathroom and a desk, while the hotel also offers a great breakfast and free airport transfers.
- Hotel Bugari ($) – the hotel provides free transfers to and from the airport, room service, plus Wi-Fi and private parking at no additional cost.
FAQs about where to stay in Guadalajara
🇲🇽 What is the best area to stay in Guadalajara, Mexico?
The best area to stay in Guadalajara is Centro, the city’s historical center. Here you’ll find all the big attractions like the Guadalajara Cathedral and some awesome hotels like Hotel Morales and Hotel Portobelo.
🛑 Is Guadalajara, Mexico, safe for tourists?
Yes, Guadalajara is safe for tourists. Even though it’s not the safest city in Mexico, most of the crime is related to drug activity – nothing to do with tourists. However, there are some places to avoid, such as Santa Fe, Calzada, and Colonia Jalisco.
🤔 Is Guadalajara worth visiting?
Yes, Guadalajara, Mexico, is a wonderful place for a holiday. The colorful town is filled with big historical attractions and offers many cool experiences and, of course, mouth-watering food.
⚠️ Which is safer: Mexico City or Guadalajara?
Although both cities are safe enough for tourists, Guadalajara is said to be safer than Mexico City when it comes to foreigners visiting the city.
🚶🏽 Is Guadalajara a walkable city?
Guadalajara is a very walkable city; walking is actually one of the best ways of getting around the city. The traffic in the city is pretty heavy – I wouldn’t advise renting a car and driving; it’s better to walk, or alternatively, use public transport.
🗓️ How many days are enough in Guadalajara?
For your stay in Guadalajara, I recommend at least 3 days, which should be enough to visit all the main attractions and get a chance to try at least a few traditional Mexican dishes.
Conclusion
What a fabulous city! I hope this post helped you decide where to stay in Guadalajara and which hotel to book!
There are so many amazing hotel options for a stay in Guadalajara, Mexico, and I know how hard it is to decide on one – so here are my top 2 favorite options, both located in Centro:
- Hotel Morales – a historical hotel close to all major attractions, featuring a pool and a spa, and live music entertainment
- Hotel Portobelo – conveniently located hotel with free parking and an excellent breakfast
If you’ve made your decision, then I highly recommend booking the hotel in Guadalajara in advance. That way, you can get the best deals and the best rooms!
Let me know in the comments if you have any questions about the city or suggestions for our travel community!
Safe Travels,
Victoria
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