How to get to Guadalajara

Guadalajara is a major metropolis and the cultural centre of the state of Jalisco, located in the western part of Mexico. If you are planning to visit this city, renowned for its traditions and colonial architecture, it is useful to know about the region's developed transport infrastructure. The question of how to get to Guadalajara is quite simple to answer: you can fly here by plane, travel by intercity bus, or drive via modern highways.

The main air gateway to the city is the Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla International Airport (GDL). It is the third busiest air hub in Mexico, handling dozens of direct flights daily from major US cities and domestic destinations, as well as serving international flights from other countries.

The airport is located approximately 17 kilometres south of the centre of Guadalajara. For travellers from Europe, Asia, or the Middle East, the route often involves a transfer in the country's capital, Mexico City, or in major US hubs. Upon arrival at the terminal, tourists can use official taxi services, rent a car, or reach the city via specialised shuttle buses, which usually takes between 30 to 45 minutes depending on traffic conditions.

Currently, it is not possible to reach Guadalajara by regular passenger train. Mexico has virtually no intercity passenger railway system, so train stations are not used for regular transport connections between states. To move between cities, tourists are advised to choose comfortable buses or air travel.

However, railway heritage is present here in the form of entertainment. The famous tourist train Jose Cuervo Express departs from the city. This retro train takes travellers on excursions to the agave plantations and historic production estates in the town of Tequila; however, it serves exclusively as a tourist attraction rather than a means of transport for arriving in the capital of Jalisco state.

Bus services in this region are organised at a high level, so travelling by land often proves to be no less comfortable than flying. A trip from the neighbouring city of León will take only about 2.5–3 hours, covering a distance of approximately 220 kilometres. The same amount of time is required to travel from Aguascalientes, from where modern coaches equipped with air conditioning and comfortable seats depart regularly.

Another scenic route leads from Colima: the road, stretching about 200 kilometres, usually takes no more than three hours. Most intercity services arrive at one of the metropolis's main bus terminals, from where it is easy to reach the historic centre by taxi or public transport.

Travelling by car offers an excellent opportunity to enjoy the picturesque landscapes of the central part of the country, especially if you are driving from the city of Colima: a journey of about 200 kilometres will take approximately 2.5 hours. The road from Aguascalientes or the bustling León will require slightly more time — about three hours to cover a distance of 220–230 kilometres on modern highways. For the most comfortable and safe journey, experienced drivers are recommended to choose toll roads, known as "cuotas".

If you do not plan to drive yourself, you can use intercity taxi services or book a private transfer directly to your hotel in Guadalajara. The cost of such a trip will be significantly higher than a bus ticket, usually starting from 3,000 Mexican pesos one way, varying depending on the vehicle class. This is a convenient option for small groups or families who value privacy and do not wish to depend on public transport schedules.

Preparing for your trip to Guadalajara will help you avoid minor inconveniences and fully immerse yourself in the atmosphere of this colourful city in Mexico. We have gathered the most important recommendations to make your journey comfortable and safe.

1. Clothing and Climate: Guadalajara is often called the "City of Roses" or the "Pearl of the West", but the weather here can be changeable. It is usually warm during the day, so light summer clothing is suitable, but be sure to bring a sweater or light jacket for cooler evenings. If your trip falls during the rainy season (June to September), an umbrella or raincoat will be essential.
2. Transport: For getting around the city, it is safest and most convenient to use official taxi apps such as Uber or Didi. Public transport, including the Macrobús system and light rail, is inexpensive and covers major districts, but can be very crowded during peak hours, which may be inconvenient for tourists with luggage.
3. Finance: The national currency is the Mexican peso. Major restaurants, hotels, and shopping malls accept bank cards without issues, but you will definitely need cash for buying souvenirs at markets or small shops. It is best to withdraw money from ATMs located inside banks or guarded areas to ensure safety.
4. Health and Safety: It is strongly advised not to drink tap water; buy bottled water even for brushing your teeth. While tourist areas (such as the Historic Centre, Tlaquepaque, or Zapopan) are safe for walking, try to avoid deserted outskirts after dark and always keep an eye on your belongings.
5. Language Barrier: The official language is Spanish. Staff in international hotels often speak English, but in daily life, especially in taxis or small cafes, it is not universally spoken. Learning a few basic phrases in Spanish is highly recommended — locals greatly appreciate such gestures of respect.
6. Local Etiquette: Mexicans are known for their politeness and friendliness. When entering a shop or addressing someone, it is customary to greet them ("Buenos días" or "Buenas tardes"). Tipping is an important part of the culture: in restaurants, it is customary to leave 10–15% of the bill amount if the service was good.
7. What to Avoid: Do not hail a taxi ("libre") by waving your hand on the street, especially at night, as this may be unsafe; it is better to order a car through your hotel or an app. Also, try not to display expensive jewellery, professional cameras, or large amounts of money in public.
8. Gastronomic Advice: You may hear about the "torta ahogada" — a famous local sandwich. Please note that this dish is traditionally made with pork (carnitas) and is "drowned" in sauce. It is a culinary symbol of the city, but for those observing Halal dietary laws, it is important to be aware of the ingredients. Additionally, the dish can be very spicy, so if you do try local cuisine, you might want to ask for the sauce separately.

Following these simple rules will allow you to feel confident and enjoy every moment in the capital of Jalisco. Guadalajara is a hospitable city that generously rewards travellers who treat its traditions with respect and interest.