Tlaquepaque
Upscale artisan village with galleries and the world's largest cantina complex
Overview
Tlaquepaque's pedestrianized **Calle Independencia** features high-end galleries, blown glass workshops, hand-painted ceramics, and fine Mexican crafts in a charming colonial setting. The crown jewel is **El Parián**—the world's largest cantina complex with 20+ restaurants surrounding a courtyard where **live mariachi performs daily** from afternoon until late night. Watch master artisans blow glass into intricate sculptures, browse Oaxacan-style alebrije carvings, and haggle for hand-painted Talavera pottery. Unlike the wholesale chaos of nearby Tonalá, Tlaquepaque offers a refined, walkable shopping experience with tree-lined streets, art galleries, and excellent restaurants. Now easily accessible via **Guadalajara Metro Line 3** (9.50 pesos), making it a seamless half-day escape from the city center.
Highlights
Practical Information
Half day to full day
Afternoons and evenings for the best mariachi atmosphere at El Parián. Weekends are livelier but more crowded.
More Day Trips Nearby
Tequila
UNESCO agave landscape and legendary distilleries—birthplace of Mexico's iconic spirit
Tonalá
Wholesale artisan market with Thursday and Sunday tianguis—40-60% below Tlaquepaque prices
Guachimontones
Mexico's only circular stepped pyramids—a hidden archaeological gem
Lake Chapala & Ajijic
Mexico's largest lake and the country's highest concentration of expats
Bosque de la Primavera
Guadalajara's 30,500-hectare forest escape with hot springs and 67+ hiking trails
San Juan Cosalá Hot Springs
Natural thermal pools with specialty spa treatments on Lake Chapala's shores—chocolate, mud, and herbal jacuzzis