Where To Stay In Guadalajara: 7 Best Areas + Where To Avoid

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Want to visit the area where tequila and mariachi all began? 

Guadalajara, Jalisco is your place to be! This region is known to be the birthplace of tequila and mariachi music – making it a culturally rich city that you won’t want to miss. Choosing the right neighborhood and where to stay in Guadalajara can make all the difference. From bustling markets to serene plazas, Guadalajara offers a variety of neighborhoods, each with its unique charm and character. 

I’ve visited Guadalajara several times, anywhere from 1-5 weeks each time. Though I personally prefer Mexico City over GDL, I’ve met several people who prefer GDL over CDMX. A common reason is that it’s slower paced and more tranquilo (chill) compared to the big city. Guadalajara is definitely a bustling city as well but I guess they have that happy medium of being a big city but not tooo crazy. 

What’s cool about Guadalajara is that you can be in a very authentic and traditional neighborhood, and then 20 minutes later (by car) find yourself in a completely modernized area.

In this guide, we’ll navigate through the 7 best areas to stay in, ensuring you experience the city like a local. Whether you’re seeking lively nightlife or more tranquilo (chill) vibes, read on to discover the perfect neighborhood to fit your interests and preferences and get ready to immerse yourself in the heart of Guadalajara.

Where To Stay In Guadalajara

1. Colonia Americana: Best For Trendy Restaurants & Nightlife

My favorite neighborhood to stay in Guadalajara is Colonia Ameriana. It’s quite central in relation to the other areas of the city and it’s very walkable. There are tons of trendy cafes, restaurants, coffee shops and bars. 

Colonia Americana is a charming neighborhood that offers a mix of historic and modern architecture. It is also home to several boutique hotels and charming guesthouses, providing a cozy and authentic experience. 

Chapultepec is the main street that runs north to south through the middle of Colonia Americana. This street is filled with restaurants, bars and a bustling nightlife. 

I also like the neighborhood Santa Teresita which is directly north of Colonia Americana (walking distance). It’s very local and authentic with bustling marketing and street vendors. It’s a residential area with a working-class feel and you can tell there’s a strong sense of community.

WHERE TO EAT – COLONIA AMERICANA

• Taqueria Mexico – Tacos (lengua, buche, maciza, surtido, cachete, trompa, costilla, etc.) 
• Tomate Taqueria – Tacos, gringas, quesadillas, etc. (al pastor, bistec, arrachera,etc.)
• Banetto – Bakery and coffee shop
• Espacio Abierto – Brunch
• Romea – Wine bar with food
• Gabinete – Brunch
• Hueso – Upscale Mexican 
• Izakaya Ebisumaru – Ramen. It was pretty decent. As someone who needs Asian food, I’ve learned to settle for good enough during my travels lol

WHERE TO EAT – SANTA TERESITA

• Tacos Miguelon – The BEST barbacoa tacos dorado (fried tortilla) ever. A MUST eat every time I visit GDL
• Kamilos 333 – Mexican food local to Guadalajara
• La Biroteria Gomez – Local joint for breakfast/lunch 
• Tortas Ahogadas Moreno’s – Tortas ahogadas

WHERE TO STAY – COLONIA AMERCANA

2. Centro Historico: Best For Sightseeing & Budget Travelers

Centro Histórico is the heart of Guadalajara’s vibrant cultural scene – where grand colonial buildings and lively plazas come together. From the beautiful Guadalajara Cathedral to the bustling Mercado San Juan de Dios, Centro Histórico offers you rich cultural experiences right outside your door. 

The neighborhood has a range of accommodations, from elegant historic hotels to trendy boutique stays, catering to every type of traveler. Its central location means you’re just a short walk away from some of the city’s top attractions, including museums, art galleries, and historical landmarks, making it a perfect base for exploring Guadalajara’s rich cultural heritage.

WHERE TO EAT – CENTRO HISTÓRICO

• Birria las 9 Esquinas – Traditional birria
• Birrieria el Compadre – Traditional birria 
• La Chata de Guadalajara – Local Mexican 
• El Mariachi Cantina & Cocina – Nice views from this terazza
• Restaurante Los Ilustres – Beautiful restaurant and views plus live mariachi music

WHERE TO STAY – CENTRO HISTÓRICO

3. Providencia: Best For Upscale Vibes

As one of Guadalajara’s most desirable neighborhoods, Providencia offers a sophisticated and serene experience. Known for its upscale ambiance, Providencia is known for it’s elegant homes, chic boutiques, and higher-end dining options. 

Accommodations in Providencia range from luxurious hotels to stylish boutique stays. This neighborhood has beautiful parks and green spaces, making it a great choice for those who enjoy more tranquilo vibes. 

I think Providencia is a great option if you don’t want to be totally in the lively/nightlife neighborhood but you still want to be near trendy restaurants and coffee shops.

WHERE TO EAT – PROVIDENCIA

• Napoles – Best Italian I’ve had in GDL (and as someone that loves Italian food, has traveled to Italy several times, and has lived in NY – I think I know what I’m talking about)
• Fuego Asador – Argentinian grill. This is another MUST eat for me whenever I visit GDL. I LOVE the choripan and pepitos (steak sandwich). I went to Argentina once for a month and let me tell you, it is hard to find good choripan elsewhere. But Fuego Asador is BOMB! You can also order steaks, burgers, chorizo and more and all decently priced
• Restaurante Allium – Fine dining
• Kokoro Sau Paulo – Japanese. I’m always on the hunt for Asian food wherever I travel especially if I’m in a place for more than a week or two. Kokoro was decent. Sushi was fresh and good but the rice was ok

WHERE TO STAY – PROVIDENCIA

4. Zapopan: Best For Families

Zapopan is technically it’s own city but it’s part of the Guadalajara Metropolitan Area. Soo we can still add it to the list! Zapopan has a blend of modern amenities, cultural attractions, and lively entertainment options. The area is known for its upscale shopping centers, higher-end restaurants, and parks. 

A key attraction in the area is the Basilica of Our Lady of Zapopan which is one of the most visited sanctuaries in Mexico. With a range of accommodations from chic hotels to upscale resorts, Zapopan caters to both business travelers and vacationers looking for comfort and convenience. 

Zapopan covers quite a large area compared to the other neighborhoods listed (which makes sense since it’s actually a city) so I’ve only gone to certain parts of it such as Andares. 

Andares is an area with basically 2-3 large upscale malls, few hotels (including Hyatt Regency listed below), several upscale restaurants, and Mercado Andares which is a pretty cool food hall. Siclo is also in this area which is my favorite spin studio in Mexico! 

I’ve traveled extensively throughout Mexico and whenever I meet people from Guadalajara then tend to be from Zapopan area which generally seems like where the more mid-upper class live.

WHERE TO EAT – ZAPOPAN

• Napoli 00 – Italian. PGood napoleon style pizzas!
• Juni-ko – Omakase
• La Docena – Oyster bar
• Mercado Andares – Food hall 
• Cuerno Andares – Upscale restaurant
• Beluga – Upscale restaurant
• La Madalena – Upscale restaurant

WHERE TO STAY – ZAPOPAN

5. Chapalita: Best For Families

As a visitor, Chapalita would be a great option to stay in within Zapopan. You’re away from the hustle and bustle but close enough where it’s not a far drive. You can even walk to Arcos Vallarta which is another great neighborhood with tons of restaurants. It’s the neighborhood between Chapalita and Colonia Americana.

Chapalita is a charming, residential neighborhood is known for its tree-lined streets, beautiful parks, and relaxed atmosphere, making it a favorite among locals and visitors seeking a more laid-back experience. 

This neighborhood has beautiful mid-century homes as well as modern homes, with easy access to cafes, restaurants, and boutique shops. Accommodations here range from stylish boutique hotels to cozy guesthouses, providing a comfortable and serene base from which to explore the rest of Guadalajara.

WHERE TO EAT – CHAPALITA

• Fuego Asador – Argentinian. Same as the one in Providencia
• Los Altenos – Popular taco spot 
• El Palomar de Santa Rita – Local street tacos and chorreadas
• Campomar Chapalita – Popular seafood restaurant chain

WHERE TO EAT – ARCOS VALLARTA

• Karmele – Bakery and coffee shop 
• SSAM – Korean bbq and restaurant. I’m half Korean so it’s not the best Korean food I’ve had but probably the best I’ve had in GDL! 
• Cafe Palreal – Brunch

WHERE TO STAY – CHAPALITA

6. Tlaquepaque: Best For Old Colonial Town Vibes & Art Lovers

I love that you can be in a pueblo magico (magic town) just 20 minutes outside of Guadalajara! Tlaquepaque is also technically it’s own city but we can include it here because it’s close enough and oh so lovely. 

Tlaquepaque immerses you in the artistic and cultural heart of Guadalajara, where you’ll find vibrant traditions and artisanal craftsmanship. This pueblo magico is known for its colorful streets, lively plazas, street performers, local eateries, and charming colonial architecture. Tlaquepaque is famous for its numerous galleries, ceramic workshops, and lively festivals, providing an enriching experience for those interested in local arts and culture. 

Personally, I just like taking day trips to Tlaquepaque but you can totally stay here if you prefer! Accommodations here range from cozy, boutique-style inns to charming bed-and-breakfasts.

Another nearby pueblo magico is Tequila! If time permits, I highly recommend taking a day trip to where tequila is from and going on a tequila tasting tour.  

WHERE TO EAT – TLAQUEPAQUE

• El Parian de Tlaquepaque – Popular patio restaurant and bar known for traditional dishes and mariachi live performances 
• Restaurante Cielito Lindo – Upscale Mexican 
• El Abajeno Tlaquepaque – Local Mexican grill

WHERE TO STAY – TLAQUEPAQUE

7. Zona Expo: Best For Business Travelers

Zona Expo is centered around the expansive Expo Guadalajara convention center, making it an ideal choice for business travelers and event-goers. 

Zona Expo has a range of contemporary hotels, shopping malls, and restaurants, providing a convenient and comfortable stay. The area’s well-planned infrastructure provides easy access to major attractions and transportation.

WHERE TO EAT – ZONA EXPO

• Succo Cocina – Italian restaurant
• Carnes Asadas Pipiolo – Local Mexican
• Karne Garibaldi Plaza Del Sol – Mexican food local to Guadalajara 
• Mr. Pampas – Brazilian bbq

WHERE TO STAY – ZONA EXPO

Areas To Avoid In Guadalajara

Anywhere outside of the neighborhoods mentioned above and the neighborhoods in between them, I would be extra cautious outside of those general areas especially after dark. 

Generally speaking, I feel safer in Guadalajara than in my own home town/country (United States). And I feel this way about most countries I visit. But as with anywhere in the world (except maybe Japan lol), always practice safe measures and be aware of your surroundings.

FAQs: Visiting Guadalajara

Curious about what to expect during your visit to Guadalajara? Our FAQ section is here to provide you with all the essential information you need to make the most of your trip. 

What is the safest neighborhood in Guadalajara?

Some of the safest areas in Guadalajara are Zapopan, Providencia, and Colonia Americana. However, always practice safe measures and be aware of your surroundings.

What is the most walkable neighborhood in Guadalajara?

Colonia Americana is the most walkable neighborhood in Guadalajara. There are tons of restaurants, cafes, bars and coffee shops which makes walking around more enjoyable than just residential areas. The neighborhood is pretty much flat so you don’t have to worry about hills.

Where is the best party area in Guadalajara?

Colonia Americana wins again! Avenida Chapultepec is home to several bars and maybe the biggest nightlife area in Guadalajara. There are several more bars that spill into the side streets as well. 

Avenida Chapultepec will have a lot of your more mainstream type bars. But what I love about this neighborhood is that they have some really cool trendy hipster-y type spots as well. 

Some of my favorite bars/clubs in Colonia Americana:

• Jamaica Gogo 
• Bar Americas
• El Gallo Altanero 
• Pardo Club
• El Rey Gallo
• Xiquito Baresito
• Farmacita Rita Perez
• Vietnam Bar
• Turbio 
• Casa Cobra (this one’s in Providencia)

Where do the rich live in Guadalajara?

Many of the upper class live in Zapopan, Providencia, and Chapalita.

Conclusion

Location, location, location! I’ve always been about location for both where I live or where I decide to stay while traveling. It makes a huge difference in the experience you’ll have in any given city. 

Another thing that’s great about Guadalajara is that it serves as a great central hub to explore other towns. I dive a bit into the best areas to visit in Jalisco halfway down this post.

I hope you enjoyed reading through my guide on where to stay in Guadalajara. As you can see, there’s a variety of neighborhoods for you to choose from based on your liking, interests, and preferences! 

As with any travel destination, staying informed and being mindful of local conditions will help you make the most of your visit. Enjoy exploring Guadalajara, and let its diverse neighborhoods offer you an authentic taste of this dynamic city.

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