From Puerto Vallarta: Guadalajara, Tequila and Tlaquepaque

If you’re considering a quick getaway from Puerto Vallarta to explore some of Jalisco’s best spots, this 2-day, overnight tour promises a good mix of culture, scenery, and local flavor. While I haven’t personally done this trip, I’ve looked into what it offers and spoken with travelers who’ve been there, and it seems like a solid choice for those wanting a taste of authentic Mexico beyond the beach.

Two things stand out about this experience: first, the chance to walk through Tequila, the birthplace of your favorite drink, and see the agave fields that make that magic happen. Second, the visit to Tlaquepaque, which is full of colorful streets, crafts, and mariachi music — a picture-perfect snapshot of Mexican charm. The one possible drawback? The hotel accommodation, according to one review, might not be a luxury stay, which could matter if you’re particular about where you rest after a day of exploring.

This tour is likely best suited for those who enjoy cultural sights, scenic drives, and vibrant local towns but don’t mind a modest hotel stay. It’s practical, straightforward, and gives you a good overview without requiring you to plan every detail yourself.

Key Points

• Cultural Highlights: The tour includes visits to Tequila’s main square, church, and the Jose Cuervo Gallery, giving a well-rounded look at the town’s heritage.
• Scenic Views: The drive includes stunning views of agave fields and mountains, especially during the guided tour with knowledgeable guides.
• Authentic Towns: Tlaquepaque offers colorful streets, mariachi music, and local crafts — perfect for strolling and soaking up local vibes.
• Comfortable Stay: The hotel in Guadalajara is centrally located, though some might find it more functional than luxurious.
• Food & Drinks: While breakfast is included, other meals aren’t, so plan to explore local eateries on your own.
• Flexible Booking: You can reserve now with the option to pay later, and cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discovering Jalisco: What the Tour Entails

Starting early from Puerto Vallarta, this tour takes you on a journey through some of Jalisco’s most iconic spots. The roundtrip transportation, guided by bilingual guides, makes it easy to relax and enjoy the views without worrying about navigation or logistics. The price of $699 per person reflects a package that includes breakfast, hotel accommodation, and all transportation fees, which makes it quite a convenient option considering all that’s packed in.

The Charm of Tequila

Your first stop is the town of Tequila, famously known as the birthplace of your favorite spirit. Walking around the main square, you’ll see the stunning architecture of the church and the lively atmosphere that makes Tequila so memorable. One guest, Rachel from the United States, shared her experience: “The Tequila factory was really fun but to see the cathedral and the architecture of all of the buildings was beautiful.”

While a tour of the distilleries is not included, the opportunity to visit the Jose Cuervo Gallery — with its panoramic views of agave fields — offers a glimpse into the process of tequila production. You’ll get a good overview of how the agave plants grow and why they’re so essential to the region’s identity. For those interested, there’s an option to pay for a distillery tour separately, which could add another layer of depth if you’re a spirits enthusiast.

Tlaquepaque – Colorful and Full of Life

Next, the journey takes you to San Pedro Tlaquepaque, a charming town packed with color, street art, and Mariachi bands. Walking along cobblestone streets, you’ll experience the lively market atmosphere, with local artisans selling crafts, and enjoy the possibility of tasting regional ice cream. The peaceful gardens and galleries also make it a great spot for photos and relaxing walks.

Tourists often mention the cheerful vibe here — the sounds of mariachis on street corners truly capture the essence of Mexican culture. It’s a vibrant, picturesque setting that’s easy to get swept up in.

The Heart of Guadalajara

Finally, your trip ends in Guadalajara, the capital of Jalisco. Staying overnight in the city center means you’re close to major sights like the historic churches and city square. The second day is dedicated to exploring the Historic Center, where you can admire architecture, take photos, and soak in the local atmosphere. Given the short nature of the stay, you’ll want to prioritize your must-see spots, but the guide will help make sure you hit the highlights.

Based on a review, the hotel stay is comfortable but not high-end. Rachel’s comment about feeling like she was in a youth hostel for adults suggests it’s functional and affordable rather than luxurious, so keep that in mind when packing or planning your expectations.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Value and Practicalities

In terms of value, this tour offers a lot for the price, especially considering it includes hotel, transportation, and guided tours. You get to see three different places, each with its own vibe, without the hassle of organizing separate trips. The inclusion of a bilingual guide makes the experience more informative and accessible, whether you speak English or Spanish.

Timing-wise, the tour is designed to maximize your experience without feeling rushed. Starting early and returning by evening allows for a full day of sightseeing, but the itinerary is quite packed. Be prepared for a fair amount of time on the road, especially during the drive between towns.

The fact that you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund adds flexibility, which is always comforting when planning trips.

What the Tour Excels At

Travelers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides who bring history and local stories to life. Multiple reviews highlight the stunning views of agave fields and the beauty of the architecture in Tequila and Guadalajara, making the journey visually rewarding.

Rachel’s review emphasizes the guide Gustavo, who “was amazing” and shared lots of interesting details about the mountains, the agave, and the city’s architecture. Good guides can turn a simple sightseeing trip into a memorable experience, and it seems like this tour delivers on that front.

Considerations and Downsides

The main consideration is the hotel accommodation — it might not satisfy those seeking luxury or a boutique experience. It’s functional, and some travelers might prefer a more upscale stay. Plus, the tour doesn’t include meals beyond breakfast, so you’ll need to budget for lunch and dinner, which can be a chance to explore local cuisine.

Also, the tour requires a minimum of two travelers to operate, which is typical for group tours but could be a factor if you’re traveling solo. While single travelers can book, their spot might stay on standby until a second person joins, so flexible travelers will appreciate this.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a well-organized, affordable trip that combines cultural sights, scenic landscapes, and authentic Mexican towns. It’s suited to those who enjoy guided tours and don’t mind a modest hotel.

If you’re a history or architecture buff, or simply looking for a taste of traditional Jalisco, this tour covers those bases effectively. On the other hand, if you’re craving luxury accommodations or a more leisurely pace, you might find this tour a bit too busy or basic.

It’s a great choice for first-time visitors to the region who want a structured overview without the hassle of planning or navigating on their own. And since the guide can speak both English and Spanish, language won’t be a barrier for most travelers.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, roundtrip transportation and fees are included, making it easy to relax and enjoy the scenery without worrying about driving.

How long is the trip?
The entire experience spans 2 days, with a full day of sightseeing on the first day and some exploration in Guadalajara on the second.

What is the hotel like?
The hotel is centrally located in Guadalajara’s Historic Center, offering easy access to sights. However, some reviews suggest it’s more functional than luxurious.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and clothes are recommended, as you’ll be walking around towns and exploring sights.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This makes it easier to book with confidence.

Is this tour family-friendly?
The data doesn’t specify, but given the pace and activities, it’s best suited for adult travelers. People with mobility issues might want to consider the walking involved.

To sum up, this tour offers a balanced mix of culture, scenery, and local flavor in a convenient package. It’s well-suited to travelers wanting a guided overview of Jalisco’s highlights without the fuss of organizing it all themselves. With friendly guides, stunning views, and authentic towns, it promises a memorable two days — just keep expectations realistic about the hotel and meal options. If you’re after a taste of Mexico’s traditional charm with ease and comfort, this might just fit the bill.

You can check availability for your dates here: