The 9 Magical Towns of Jalisco you must visit

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There are currently nine Magical Towns of Jalisco, Ajijic being the most recently named, in the year 2020. Jalisco is one of the states of the Mexican Republic that has the most magical towns recognized by the Ministry of Tourism. The state is tied with Michoacán for second place. These are surpassed only by Puebla and the State of Mexico, which have ten magical towns each.

Each of these beautiful towns is a good reason to visit Jalisco, beyond its capital Guadalajara. Let yourself be conquered by the magic of each of these towns, get to know their traditions, admire their colors and enjoy the warmth of their people.

The Magical Towns of Jalisco (Content)

  • Ajijic
  • Lagos de Moreno
  • Mazamitla
  • Mascota
  • San Sebastián del Oeste
  • Talpa de Allende
  • Tapalpa
  • Tequila
  • Tlaquepaque
  • Chapala (No oficial)
The Nine Magical Towns of Jalisco

Ajijic

The newest of the nine Magical Towns of Jalisco

Ajijic Aerial View
Ajijic Aerial View

Let’s start with the most recently named magical town of Jalisco: Ajijic. From the Nahuatl Axixic, qur means “Place where the water splashes”, a very appropriate name for a population on the margins of the immense Lake Chapala. The origins of Ajijic precede the arrival of the Spanish when Nahuatl tribes settled in the region. Probably motivated by the natural beauty of the area and by an excellent mild climate throughout the year. These same factors are the magnets that continue to attract thousands of visitors today. Which makes Ajijic the largest community of American and Canadian citizens in Mexico.

In addition to its privileged natural conditions, a great charm of Ajijic is the great color of its architecture. Multiple murals adorn the facades of mansions and accompany the visitor as they walk through the cobbled streets. For art lovers, Ajijic houses many galleries, in which the pictorial, sculptural, and jewelry production of renowned local and foreign artists living in the area is exhibited and sold.

Among the activities that can be done, there are boat rides on the lake, a walk along the boardwalk and the main square, take a massage in one of the renowned SPAs in the region, and enjoy the great culinary offer.

May be an image of 1 person, sky and palm trees
Alfonso Galindo at Capital O Villas de Ajijic

How to get from Guadalajara to Ajijic:

Ajijic is located 55 km south of Guadalajara connected by a highway without tolls. If you want to take the bus, it leaves from the suburban center of Guadalajara, better known as the “Central Vieja”.

Where to eat:

Teosinte : Mexican cuisine. $$$

Ajijic Tango : Argentinian cuisine, cuts. $$$$

CocinART : International Cuisine. $$$

Trip’s Burgers : Burgers.$$$

Where to sleep:

https://www.booking.com/flexiproduct.html?product=map&w=100%25&h=590&lang=en&aid=2191405&target_aid=2191405&ss_id=0&ss_type=landmark&fid=1654179234426&latitude=20.2996995&longitude=-103.2637074&landmark_name=Ajijic&mwhsb=1&address=Ajijic%2C%20Jalisco%2C%20Mexico&

Lagos de Moreno

World Heritage

Parish of Our Lady of the Assumption
Parish of Our Lady of the Assumption

Lagos de Moreno is one of the two Magical Towns of Jalisco, which has been recognized as a Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO (along with the Agave Landscape in the Tequila Zone). In 2010, the aforementioned agency dependent on the UN granted recognition for the historical and cultural value of its historic center and the old bridge that crosses the Lagos River, in the center of the town.

Lagos, as the Jalisciences know Lagos de Moreno, is without a doubt the jewel in the crown of the Altos Norte area of ​​Jalisco. In turn, the undisputed jewel in the crown of the historic center of Lagos is the Calvario temple, located on the Cerro de la Calavera. From there you have a privileged view of the entire town. The Temple of Calvary, inspired by the Basilica of Saint Peter in Rome, is a beautiful neoclassical-style building, whose façade is the most representative image of Lagos de Moreno.

Calvary Temple.  Lakes of Moreno, Jal.
Calvary Temple. Lakes of Moreno, Jal.

On one side of the main square, another of the most outstanding temples of the town is located. We refer to the Parish of Our Lady of the Assumption. On whose façade, an 18th-century baroque-style work of art, two 72-meter-high towers stand out. Thanks to this, it is considered one of the tallest temples in Mexico.

Continuing the tour through the Historic Center of Lagos, the Museum of Sacred Art should not be missed. In its five rooms, it exhibits the most important artistic and religious heritage of the region. Highlighting New Spain paintings, religious images, wood carvings and ritual pieces.

Another attraction that should be included in any visit to Lagos de Moreno is the José Rosas Moreno Theater. This is the most important cultural venue in the north of Jalisco. Its construction, begun in 1867, speaks of the importance of Lagos, at a time when capital cities of other states did not have a theater, much less the characteristics of the José Rosas Moreno. The French-style neoclassical building, typical of the Porfirian era, is listed as a Historic Civil Monument.

Jose Rosas Moreno Theater.  Lakes of Moreno, Jal.
Jose Rosas Moreno Theater. Lakes of Moreno, Jal.

How to get:

By toll road, Lagos de Moreno is located 187 km from Guadalajara. On the free highway, the distance is 204 km. From Guadalajara, there are buses that depart from both the old central and the new central.

Where to eat:

La Rinconada : Mexican cuisine. $$$

Terrescalli : International Cuisine. $$$

Porco Smokehouse : Barbecue. $$

Where to sleep:

https://www.tripadvisor.com.mx/Hotels-g499415-Lagos_de_Moreno-Hotels.html

Mazamitla

The Mexican Switzerland

Parish of San Cristobal.  Mazamitla, Jalisco.
Parish of San Cristobal. Mazamitla, Jalisco.

Considered the Mexican Switzerland, Mazamitla is perhaps the most famous of the Nine Magical Towns of Jalisco and for very good reason. Thanks to its well-deserved popularity, and the number of visitors it receives, it has one of the best tourist infrastructures among the Magical Towns of Jalisco. In Mazamitla we can find various lodging options, activities and gastronomic options, which adapt to the needs of all visitors. Due to the above, Mazamitla is one of the most valued and visited destinations by Jalisciences, who take advantage of any opportunity to escape to this Magical Town as a couple, with family or with friends.

Mazamitla is a place full of tradition, history and a special charm, which is evident from the moment you set foot in the town. Upon arrival, the beauty of its cobbled streets with white facades, wooden balconies, and gabled clay roofs will transport you to other times. As you get closer to the main square, the streets become more and more lively and even more picturesque. The main square, beautifully tree-lined, welcomes you with its kiosk that serves as a framework for the Parish of San Cristobal. This temple is without a doubt, the most representative image of Mazamitla, it is a recent construction, since it dates only from the middle of the 20th century. Its white facade combines several styles, with the Chinese influence being evident in the tops of its towers and its pediment.

Mazamitla Center
Mazamitla Center

Lodging options include hotels of all categories, gampling, apartments and cabins, which, like hotels, range from the rustic to the most luxurious. Speaking of cabins, there are also all sizes and for all budgets. But what they have in common is that they are located in beautiful wooded areas, which allows a total connection with nature.

In addition to oak, pine and oak forests, the Sierra del Tigre -a section of the Sierra Madre Occidental, where Mazamitla is located- offers waterfalls, rivers, dams and elevated areas with impressive views. Here, it is possible to carry out a large number of ecotourism activities, from hiking, ATV rides, zip lines, abseiling, paintball (gotcha) and even paragliding.

How to get there :

From Guadalajara, the distance to Mazamitla is 135 km by road without tolls. Buses from Guadalajara leave from the new central.

Where to eat:

Mestizo : Mexican/International cuisine. $$$

Posada Mazanitla : Mexican. $

Asado de Trivento : Mexican/International. $$$

Where to sleep:

https://www.booking.com/flexiproduct.html?product=map&w=100%25&h=590&lang=en&aid=2191407&target_aid=2191407&ss_id=0&ss_type=landmark&fid=1654179234438&latitude=19.9165757&longitude=-103.0212924&landmark_name=Mazamitla&mwhsb=1&address=Mazamitla%2C%20Jalisco%2C%20Mexico&

Mascota

The Emerald of the Sierra

Pet Center, Jal.
Mascot Center Street, Jal.

Mascota is the most remote of the magical towns of Jalisco and one of the best-kept secrets in the state. An old and beautiful town in the mountains, which for many years was only known by locals and those who passed through the area. As a result of its appointment as a magical town in 2015, its polyparity has increased notably. At the same time, its tourist infrastructure has diversified, so today it has options for all travelers.

Parish of Our Lady of Sorrows
Parish of Our Lady of Sorrows

Mascota is a town of unpretentious beauty. Without facades that have been renovated or painted with bright colors, with the sole intention of fitting into the standards of the typical magical town. The natural beauty of the area and the harmonious architecture have made Mascota known as “La Esmeralda de la Sierra”.

The spontaneous beauty of this town offers endless photogenic corners. Starting with its beautiful main square, with its traditional neo-Mudejar style kiosk in the center. To one side is the 18th-century Parroquia de Nuestra Señora de los Dolores, with its sober façade accentuated by a baroque-style portico.

The unfinished Temple of the Precious Blood, with its stone walls and vaultless arches, has become one of the most photographed sites in Mascota. The revolutionary joust, as well as the passage of the cristeros, prevented this 19th-century construction from being completed. Today its vestiges frame beautiful gardens and serve as a stage for theatrical performances and religious events.

Unfinished Temple The Precious Blood, Pet Jal.
Unfinished Temple The Precious Blood, Pet Jal.

The archaeological museum is another must-see site in Mascota. Located just one block from the main square, on Allende street, it offers samples of the history and archeology of the region. It has four exhibition halls, where ceramic, stone and bone pieces are shown. All the pieces were recovered from the excavation of a pantheon that is more than a thousand years old!

A visit to Mascota cannot be concluded without visiting the Regional Market. There you can find crafts, typical sweets and souvenirs at excellent prices. But also, on its upper floor is the food area. Where options abound to enjoy delicious regional cuisine at very affordable prices.

The benevolent climate of Mascota, with an average annual temperature of 21°C and the existence of numerous natural assets, such as the Juanacatlán lagoon or the “El Molcajete” Volcano, make the area the ideal place for hiking, rock climbing, mountain, mountain biking and other ecotourism activities. Without a doubt, Mascota has everything for the nature lover, who is looking for a quiet place to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of modern city life.

How to get there :

The distance between Guadalajara and Mascota is 206 km through a free highway. Buses from Guadalajara leave from the old central. Line: Auto Transportes Mascota .

Where to eat:

Tapanco : Italian cuisine. $$

Naples Cafe : International. $$

Where to sleep:

https://www.kayak.com/Mascota-Hotels.58666.hotel.ksp

San Sebastian del Oeste

Panoramic view of San Sebastian del Oeste
Panoramic view of San Sebastian del Oeste

San Sebastian del Oeste was for many years a site of difficult access. So remote that it is still one of the most enigmatic and least visited magical towns of Jalisco in the state. However, in recent years, getting to it has become much faster and easier. This is thanks to new highways, which facilitate access from Guadalajara and Puerto Vallarta.

Together with Talpa, Mazamitla, Tapalpa, and Mascota, they are located in the Sierra Madre Occidental. Its foundation dates back to 1605 when the first settlers founded the Real San Sebastian town on this site, the name by which it was previously known. The boom of the town occurred in the mid-nineteenth century, thanks to the extraction of precious metals in the area, mainly gold and silver. In these times, there were up to fifty active mines. At that time, the population of San Sebastian reached more than 20,000 inhabitants.

Main Square of San Sebastian del Oeste
Main Square of San Sebastian del Oeste

The mines were abandoned many decades ago and the population dwindled until it reached only 5,000 inhabitants, currently live the town. The people who stayed began to carry out other economic activities, mainly livestock and agriculture. Until a few years ago, tourism began to gain more importance. The reasons for the tourist growth that San Sebastian has recently had are evident from the moment you set foot in the town. The rustic beauty of the place, a pleasant climate, the imposing nature that surrounds it, its enigmatic history and the warmth of its people have made it a destination that is gaining more and more followers.

Magic Town of San Sebastian del Oeste
Magic Town of San Sebastian del Oeste

At first glance, the smallness of the town may give the impression that there is not much to do. However, there is nothing further from reality for those who are willing to be surprised. Although the main motivation of visitors is relaxation, in San Sebastian it is possible to carry out various ecotourism activities. It is recommended to visit its beautiful ex-haciendas, take walks or horseback rides or visit the old mines.

The Ranch of Landeros, Mascota, Jal.
The Ranch of Landeros, Mascota, Jal.

For lovers of hiking, your efforts will be well rewarded with amazing natural beauty and incredible views. Walking through the forest and along streams, you will reach one of the natural jewels of the area, the beautiful waterfall “La Hermita” or “Cascada la Estancia de Landeros”, as it is also known. Another highly recommended walk is to the chapel of Nuestra Señora del Rosario in Real el Alto. If what you are looking for is a place to enjoy an unforgettable sunset, you should visit the Cerro de la Bufa viewpoint. From there, it is possible to appreciate the coast of Banderas Bay, a view that will undoubtedly stay with you forever.

Cerro de la Bufa viewpoint, Mascota, Jal.
Cerro de la Bufa viewpoint, Mascota, Jal.

How to get:

The distance between Guadalajara and San Sebastian del Oeste is 254 km through a free highway. To get there by bus from Guadalajara it is necessary to go to the old central and take a bus to Mascota, from there you will have to take another that will take you to San Sebastian de Oeste. Line: Auto Transportes Mascota .

Where to eat:

Nebula Garden : Mexican Cuisine. $$$

Villa Nogal : French/Fusion cuisine. $$$

Montebello Italian Restaurant . Italian cuisine. $$

The Magic Galletero : Bakery. $$

Lupita’s Dining Room : Mexican Cuisine. $$

Where to sleep:

https://www.booking.com/flexiproduct.html?product=map&w=100%25&h=590&lang=en&aid=2191409&target_aid=2191409&ss_id=0&ss_type=landmark&fid=1654179234448&latitude=20.7613306&longitude=-104.8528075&landmark_name=San%20Sebasti%C3%A1n%20del%20Oeste&mwhsb=1&zoom=16&address=San%20Sebasti%C3%A1n%20del%20Oeste%2C%20Jalisco%2C%20Mexico&

Talpa

Land of Pilgrims and Miracles

Main Square of the Magical Town of Talpa de Allende, Jal.
Main Square of the Magical Town of Talpa de Allende, Jal.

Even though for most, the visit to the Magical Town of Talpa still has religious motivations, the population and the surroundings have much more to offer. Today the destination has a tourist offer that has been diversified to serve different types of travelers.

Before being named the seventh Magical Town of Jalisco in 2015, Talpa was already one of the most visited places in the entire state. Talpa is the destination of millions of pilgrims, who come from all corners of western Mexico to venerate Our Lady of the Rosary.

Said image, which is said to be very miraculous, was taken to Talpa by the Purepecha Indians in 1585. The story goes that over the years, the image deteriorated, to the point that in 1644 it was going to be buried. At that moment, a blinding glow came from her accompanied by an intense scent of roses. It is said that the sky was covered with clouds, from which angels descended, causing the image to have an amazing transformation. Thus the image left behind its deteriorated image to look more radiant than ever. This event is known as “The Miracle of the Renewal” and marks the beginning of the expansion of the veneration of the Virgin.

Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary, Talpa de Allende, Jal.
Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary, Talpa de Allende, Jal.

It is estimated that currently, more than three million people come to the basilica of Talpa. Many of them cover the “Pilgrim’s Route” on foot, 117 km long, starting in the town of Ameca.

In the heart of the town, next to the main square is the Sanctuary of the Virgen del Rosario. This temple, which houses the venerated image, is a must-see, not only because of its religious and cultural importance but also because of its architectural beauty. The Churrigueresque and Gothic-style construction dates back to 1782. It has a beautiful quarry façade and bell towers with tiled finials. The interior of the basilica is no less surprising, with colorful stained glass windows and a lavishly decorated altarpiece covered in gold leaf. To one side of this sanctuary, there is a museum dedicated to the Virgin. In it, religious objects are exhibited as well as the collection of dresses and accessories with which the Virgin has been dressed throughout history.

A few meters from the main square is the municipal market. This is an excellent option to eat, browse and buy a souvenir of your visit. Without a doubt, one of the most representative typical products of Talpa and its surroundings is Chicle or Chilte. It is an unsweetened chewing gum, which is made with the sap of the chicizapote. This is put on the fire with water until it achieves its “gummy” consistency. Later it is stretched, dyed and modeled in the figure of a virgin, flowers, baskets, hearts, fruits and more. Another of Talpa’s most recognized artisan products is the fruit candy roll. The most traditional are the sweet guava and quince rolls, made by hand for more than 60 years.

Magic Town of Talpa de Allende, Jal.

Being located in the middle of Sierra Madre Occidental, Talpa is also ideal for those who want to get away and disconnect from modern Cotadina life. Its cool climate, along with its forests, streams, waterfalls, and beautiful landscapes, make it ideal for hiking, horseback riding, and other outdoor activities. In the center of Talpa, it is possible to find agencies that are dedicated to organizing guided tours. Among the most popular tours are those that take the visitor to see the nearby picturesque rural communities. Through these agencies, it is also possible to visit the surrounding forests and hire ecotourism activities.

How to get:

The distance between Guadalajara and Talpa is 203 kms through free highway. Trucks to Talpa depart from the old central in Guadalajara. Line: Auto Transportes Mascota .

Where to eat:

Casa Grande : Mexican/International cuisine. $$

Casa Allende : International Cuisine. $$$

El Herradero : Mexican cuisine. $$

La Burrita Bar & Restaurant : Mexican/International Cuisine $$

Where to sleep:

https://www.airbnb.mx/talpa-de-allende-mexico/stays?c=.pi0.pk16518187424_133827460506&sem_automaid=true&gclid=CjwKCAjwv-GUBhAzEiwASUMm4kxSHmvX0pJV4H7AGdSi2sT_d0ousxXl4d7Uusy5kZvqKQQA46R4FhoCPKwQAvD_BwE

Tapalpa

The Town in the Mountains

Postcard from Tapalpa, Jalisco.
Postcard from Tapalpa, Jalisco.

Among the nine Magical Towns of Jalisco, Tapalpa was the first in Jalisco to receive such an appointment in 2001. It is a picturesque mountain town, with white facades and red clay roofs. Tapalpa is located in the Sierra Madre Occidental, so it is surrounded by beautiful pine forests and enjoys an excellent climate all year round.

The main square is the ideal place to start a visit to Tapalpa. This square has the peculiarity that it not only has one temple, but two. The new Temple of Our Lady of Guadalupe and the old temple of San Antonio de Padua. On one side of the square, there is a small kiosk from where local musicians play on holidays. In the old mansions with white facades and wooden portals around the square, today there are restaurants, hotels, souvenir shops, bakeries and shops selling typical sweets and preserves.

Continue your visit away from the town center and discover museums, nurseries, craft workshops, and hundreds of photogenic corners. Moving away a little from the town, you will find one of the most emblematic sites of Tapalpa, Las Piedrotas. Also known as “Ball Stones”, these rock formations are an enigma, their enormous and unusual size leads to different theories as to how they got there. The most fanciful versions suggest that they were placed there by aliens. Whatever their origin, the pebbles are a must-stop when visiting Tapalpa.

Las Piedrotas, Magic Town of Tapalpa
The Piedrotas, Tapalpa, Jal.

For those who like outdoor activities, in Tapalpa you can do everything from quiet horseback rides to hang gliding, passing through a variety of extreme sports.

Adventure Tourism in Tapalpa, Jalisco.
Adventure Tourism in Tapalpa, Jalisco.

How to get:

The distance between Guadalajara and Talpa using toll road sections is 132 km. If you travel by free road, the distance is 130 km. Buses from Guadalajara leave from the new bus station. Line ” Sur de Jalisco “

Where to eat:

La Mezcalera : Mexican cuisine. $$$.

La Sandunga Sabe : Mexican Cuisine. $$

Mother Earth : International. $$

Where to sleep:

https://www.booking.com/flexiproduct.html?product=map&w=100%25&h=590&lang=en&aid=2191411&target_aid=2191411&ss_id=0&ss_type=landmark&fid=1654179234469&latitude=19.9476711&longitude=-103.7607783&landmark_name=Tapalpa&mwhsb=1&address=Tapalpa%2C%20Jalisco%2C%20Mexico&

Tequila

Cradle of the most popular drink in the world

Central Square of Tequila, Jalisco
Central Square of Tequila, Jalisco

Of the nine Magical Towns of Jalisco, Tequila is one of the most popular, for being the birthplace of the well-known drink of the same name. Located between the Tequila volcano and the Santiago river canyon, this is an ideal area for growing agave. The mythical plant from which Tequila is distilled.

Legend has it that Mayahuel, a beautiful goddess, had in her custody a magical plant that would give joy and other gifts to human beings. Mayuahuel was jealously guarded by her grandmother, who feared that her granddaughter would deliver the plant to humanity. As she grew up, Mayahuel fell in love with the God Quetzalcoatl, who, knowing that the relationship was not approved by her grandmother, convinced her beloved to flee from her. In their flight, the lovers were caught up by Mayahuel’s brothers, who, on the instructions of the evil grandmother, took the life of the Goddess. Mayahuel’s body was transformed into the agave plant, which is still lovingly cared for and watered by Quetzalcoatl.

Mural allusive to the Legend of Mayahuel in the Municipal Presidency of Tequila, Jal.
Mural allusive to the Legend of Mayahuel in the Municipal Presidency of Tequila, Jal.

Beyond the legend, the production of spirits in the area dates back at least to the 16th century. It is believed that after an electrical storm there was a fire that cooked the agaves, causing a sweet honey to sprout from them. The natives discovered that when fermented, this honey produced a drink that had relaxing and euphoric powers. With the arrival of the Europeans, distillation was introduced, creating the drink that would later become known as Tequila.

Today the cultural and economic influence of the Tequila drink is quite evident in the area. The fields of this region are known as the land of blue gold, thanks to the hue provided by the agave plantations. Since 2006, UNESCO recognized the agave landscape and the old industrial facilities of Tequila, as cultural heritage of humanity. The beauty of the agave landscape can be appreciated in all its splendor from the viewpoints located in Teuchitlán, El Arenal and Amatitán.

Agave landscape.  Tequila, Jal.
Agave landscape. Tequila, Jal.

In the town of Tequila, it is possible to visit the industrial plants where the agave pineapples are processed and converted into the alcoholic beverage. La Rojeña factory, located in the heart of Tequila, is one of the most emblematic and oldest. Guided tours are offered, in which you will learn about the tequila manufacturing and packaging process. At the end, the possibility of a guided tasting of the different varieties of tequila is offered.

Visiting the main square of Tequila is entering a festive atmosphere. Here locals and visitors gather to enjoy mariachi music and of course, enjoy the traditional Tequila Jarritos. This traditional drink mixes grapefruit soda, citrus juices and of course, Tequila, a refreshing combination! In the main square there are also various options to eat, buy handicrafts and visit boutiques specializing in Tequila.

For those who want to explore the Tequila area even more, it is recommended to take the Tequila Route, which will take you through other charming towns dedicated to the cultivation of agave and the production of tequila. It is a circuit that is part of the “Tourist Routes of Mexico” and is made up of the towns of Tequila, Amatitán, El Arenal, Magdalena, Ahualulco, Etzatlán, San Juanito de Escobedo and Teuchitlán .

Pedestrian Street in the Center of Tequila, Jal.
Pedestrian Street in the Center of Tequila, Jal.

How to get:

The distance between Guadalajara and Tequila through free highway is 65 km, by toll road the distance is 68 km. The buses leave from the old center of Guadalajara and from the central of Zapopan. Line: Tequila Plus.

Where to eat:

La Antigua Casona : Mexican cuisine. $$$

The Cave of Don Cenobio . Mexican Kitchen. $$$

Patio Mayahua : Mexican cuisine. $$

Where to sleep:

https://www.lonelyplanet.com/news/tequila-barrel-hotel-mexico

Tlaquepaque

The pottery village of Jalisco

Charro in front of the temple of San Pedro, in Tlaquepaque

Tlaquepaque is the only one of the Magical Towns of Jalisco, located in the Metropolitan Area of ​​Guadalajara. Its proximity makes it a convenient option for tourists who want to have the experience of visiting a picturesque town, without going too far. Tlaquepaque is also known as the “potter village”, since it has traditionally manufactured clay and clay objects since pre-Columbian times. Currently, pottery is only part of the artisan offer. The current Tlaquepaquense crafts also include jewelry, saddlery, wood carvings, textiles, blown glass, among others. We recommend you visit the galleries of Sergio Bustamante, Rodo Padilla and Agustín Parra, three of the most outstanding artisan artists in Tlaquepaque. Very possibly when you see his works, his particular styles become familiar to you, since his works are recognized around the world.

Tlaquepaque
Kiosk in the main square of Tlaquepaque

But the appeal of this Magical Town goes beyond what can be found in its galleries and boutiques. The town itself is a work of art. In its colorful facades, lively squares and in its beautiful temples, a marked Mexican atmosphere is perceived. In the heart of the town is its main square or Jardín Hidalgo. This square has an attractive kiosk and excellent views of the two temples that are on the sides. The Sanctuary of Nuestra Señora de la Soledad on the western side of the square and the Parroquia de San Pedro Apostol, to the north. Both are a mixture of architectural styles such as baroque and gothic with two bell towers that dominate the Tlaquepaque skyline.

In addition to strolling through the square, there you can find dozens of stalls where the traditional “gusgueras” are offered. With this name the Jalisciences know the appetizers, the sweets or the street snacks. Among the most recommended gusgueras is the tejuino (delicious and refreshing traditional drink based on fermented corn dough); the charales (small freshwater fish) the Esquites, churros, chopped fruit, ice cream, shaved ice, fried foods among many others.

If you prefer a more formal meal, in Tlaquepaque there are dozens of restaurants for all tastes and budgets. On the Independencia pedestrian promenade, in addition to an arts gallery and craft shops, there are some of the most outstanding restaurants, which offer both typical regional dishes and international cuisine. Another option to consider is El Parian. An old market that currently houses several typical restaurants/bars, where in addition to eating delicious food, you can enjoy the festive music of maricahi, in a family atmosphere.

How to get:

Tlaquepaque is located in the Metropolitan Area of ​​Guadalajara, to get there there are different means of urban transport. Consult transport routes .

Where to eat:

Zaguan Restaurant Gallery : Mexican Cuisine. $$$

Casa Luna : Mexican cuisine. $$$

Real San Pedro : Mexican cuisine. $$$

Where to sleep:

https://www.booking.com/flexiproduct.html?product=map&w=100%25&h=590&lang=en&aid=2191403&target_aid=2191403&ss_id=0&ss_type=landmark&fid=1654179234476&latitude=20.6392948&longitude=-103.3120943&landmark_name=Tlaquepaque%20centro&mwhsb=1&zoom=16&address=Tlaquepaque%20centro%2C%20Centro%2C%20Tlaquepaque%2C%20Jalisco%2C%20Mexico&

Chapala (Unofficial)

Aerial view of Chapala
Aerial view of Chapala (Malecon)

Chapala is not part of the nine Magical Towns of Jalisco officially recognized by the Ministry of Tourism. However, its incomparable beauty has earned it a very special place, among thousands of visitors who visit it every weekend.

It is the main settlement on the shores of the lake of the same name. Due to its proximity to Guadalajara, it is an important weekend destination for thousands of people from Guadalajara. Visitors to Chapala appreciate its excellent climate, the tranquility of its streets, and the beauty of its architecture, framed by the immensity of the lake. Although it is not officially a magical town, Chapala has the charm, with a series of attractions and the infrastructure, to turn every visit into a memorable experience.

The ideal point to start any trip to Chapala is its boardwalk. Meeting place for locals and visitors, who take advantage of the beautiful views of the lake, to walk during the afternoons, have an ice cream or sit on one of the benches to enjoy the sunset. As you walk along the boardwalk, you can not miss the picturesque pier, where there is an old lighthouse, the ideal place for a selfie! This pier is also known as “little corner of love”, as it is said, it was one of the favorite places of the actress María Felix and her husband Enrique Álvarez, who spent their honeymoon in Chapala.

Dock "Rinconcito de Amor" in Chapala
Dock “Little Corner of Love”

Among the activities that can be done in Chapala are boat rides. Being possible to visit the two islands of Lake Chapala: The Island of Mezcala (also known as the Island of the Presidio) and the Island of the Alacranes. Both were once important ceremonial centers for the pre-Hispanic civilizations that inhabited the current territory of Jalisco. On the Island of Mezcala -the one with the greatest tourist attraction- it has a military fortress with a moat and drawbridges dating from the independence era.

In Chapala, there is also a varied culinary offer, in which regional dishes are offered. After having eaten, an excellent idea is to end your walk through Chapala, enjoying one of the delicious carafe ice creams that are sold on the boardwalk. One of the favorite desserts for locals and visitors.

How to get:

The distance between Guadalajara and Chapala through free highway is 50 kms. Buses to Chapala leave from Guadalajara’s old bus station. Line: Chapala Plus .

Where to eat:

Letter CH : Mexican Cuisine/Seafood. $$

The Original Tony’s Restaurant : International Cuisine. $$$

Where to sleep:

https://www.momondo.com/hotels/chapala?r9ck=iq&gclid=CjwKCAjwv-GUBhAzEiwASUMm4nImkjkLh9sU5CMfXjoQF2bcwurmOrFqbpPbWcf-r0PiEpxnAoURKRoCYU0QAvD_BwE

JALISCO Y SUS PUEBLOS MÁGICOS, EXCELENTE OPCIÓN PARA VACACIONES -  Brunoticias

The Guadalajara Post