Did you know that Guadalajara is sometimes referred to as the “most Mexican city of Mexico”? Join a local guide on a fun Essential Free Tour of Guadalajara and you’ll understand why! This massive metropolis is the second biggest city in the country, but it has managed to keep a perfect balance between modernity and authenticity. Strolling along the charming streets of the historical center with a small group of international travelers, you’ll see that Guadalajara is both a cosmopolitan city dotted with fashionable bars and restaurants, and a traditional town rooted in history. As you enjoy the views of the massive Cathedral, the beating heart of Guadalajara, your guide will explain how the origins and development of the “Pearl of the West”.

Around the stunning Cathedral, you will find many other must-see landmarks including the Government Palace, Tapatia Square, Degollado Theater, and the Regional Museum. Your guide will take some time introducing the stunning Cabanas Museum: a former orphanage transformed into a unique cultural hub that is now a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. Inside, this majestic building is even more impressive. It is decorated with a series of monumental frescoes by Jose Clemente Orozco, one of the fathers of Mexican muralism. Just a short walk away, your group will also explore the Mariachis Square, and learn about the origins, meaning and high significance of Mariachi music in local life.

No Free Walking Tour in Guadalajara would be complete without taking a deep dive into the rich gastronomy of Jalisco region. The city is country-wide known as the home of the “torta ahogada” — a pork sandwich “drowned” in spicy chili sauce. This and many, many more typical dishes can be found at the 40,000 m2 (9.8 acres) San Juan de Dios – Libertad Market. This massive indoor market houses hundreds of stalls where you can find all the food you might wish for, as well as clothes, souvenirs, musical instruments, spices, religious paraphernalia, Quinceanera ball gowns, gourmet tequila, “charro” suits, and much more. This might sound dizzying, but fear not! Your guide will help you navigate this labyrinth as you learn about traditional Tapatio culture.