Discover Guadalajara’s Authentic Cantina Scene with the All-Inclusive Private Tour
If you’re looking to get a genuine taste of Guadalajara’s lively bar culture, this Cantinas Private Tour – All Included might just be what you need. It promises an intimate peek into the city’s beloved cantinas—places full of character, music, and centuries of tradition—while offering a relaxed, all-food-and-drink experience. It’s designed for those who enjoy combining food, drinks, and local atmosphere without the hassle of planning each stop.
What really caught my eye about this tour is that it’s private, so it’s tailored just for your group—no random strangers joining in. Plus, the fact that it includes all food and drinks means you can sit back and savor without constantly reaching for your wallet. That said, it’s a relatively short experience—about 1 to 2 hours—so it’s best for those who want a quick, lively taste of Guadalajara’s cantina scene. If you’re after a deep dive into history or a lengthy tour, this might feel a little rushed. But if you’re curious about the local drinking culture and love good food, this tour could be just right.
This experience suits travelers who enjoy authentic, casual nights out, especially if you’re new to Guadalajara or want a fun, guided introduction to its iconic drinking spots. It’s perfect if you appreciate good food, lively atmospheres, and prefer a small-group or private setting over crowded bar crawls.
Key Points

- Private, all-inclusive experience focused on Guadalajara’s traditional cantinas.
- Three iconic stops including a famous birria spot, a lively cantina with snacks, and the city’s most emblematic drinking spot.
- Includes transportation between venues, making it easy to relax and enjoy.
- Short and sweet: about 1 to 2 hours, ideal for a quick, authentic experience.
- Catered for most travelers, with flexibility for different groups.
- Operated by seasoned guides who curate a genuine local experience.
An In-Depth Look at the Cantinas Private Tour

When you first hear about a tour that visits classic Guadalajara cantinas, you might picture lively scenes, clinking glasses, and lots of local flavor. This tour delivers that, but with a curated, comfortable vibe thanks to its private setting. It’s perfect for travelers who want to sample authentic food and drinks without the fuss of navigating alone or dealing with large crowds.
Prefer personalized experiences? Here are other private options we've covered in Guadalajara
The Itinerary Breakdown
Stop 1: Birriería las 9 Esquinas
Your journey begins at Birriería las 9 Esquinas, a renowned spot to taste birria—a traditional, slow-cooked meat stew that’s a staple in Jalisco cuisine. This part of the tour is a solid 30-minute stop, and you’ll get to sample what many consider one of the tastiest local dishes. The admission is free, but the real treat is the flavors you’ll experience. Based on other travelers’ feedback, the birria is delicious and authentic, perfect for those wanting a hearty start to their evening.
Stop 2: La Occidental Cantina
Next, you’ll move to La Occidental Cantina, a lively spot to enjoy a drink—probably something local—paired with classic mexican botanas (snacks). Again, 30 minutes gives enough time to soak in the atmosphere, sip your beverage, and nibble on snacks that complement the drinks perfectly. Many review snippets mention that this stop offers a great balance of casual fun and authentic vibe, with the added bonus of no extra cost for admission.
Stop 3: Cantina La Fuente
Your final visit is to Cantina La Fuente, arguably the most iconic cantina of Guadalajara. This 40-minute stop is the highlight for many, as it’s steeped in history and brimming with character. Travelers seem to love La Fuente for its authentic ambiance, lively music, and stories. It’s the perfect setting for a relaxed end to the tour, soaking in the local scene in a place that’s considered a true emblem of Guadalajara’s cantina culture.
Transportation & Timing
The tour includes transportation between these spots, which means you won’t need to worry about figuring out logistics or walking long distances. The meeting point is at Birriería las 9 Esquinas at 6:00 pm, and the tour wraps up at La Fuente, making for a relaxed evening. It’s suitable for most travelers and provides a comfortable way to experience multiple venues without the hassle of planning each visit.
What Travelers Can Expect

From the reviews and the tour’s description, it’s clear that the experience hinges on authentic food, lively atmospheres, and local drinks. The tour’s all-inclusive approach is a huge plus—no need to worry about extra costs, which makes it straightforward and relaxed.
The guides—Karen Contreras, Jorge Camacho, and Alejandra Moreno—are experienced and seem dedicated to curating a genuine local experience. Expect friendly, knowledgeable guidance, which enhances the relaxed vibe and helps you learn about the culture behind each spot.
Some reviewers have praised the delicious food and tapas, indicating that the bites and drinks are a highlight, not an afterthought. The inclusion of a traditional dish like birria at the start is a smart move—it offers a real taste of local flavor early on, setting the tone for the evening.
The Value and Who It’s For
At $115 per person, the price is reasonable considering the private nature and the all-food-and-drink setup. It’s a good deal if you’re someone who appreciates a curated, intimate experience without the hassle of figuring out where to go or how to get there. For travelers who want a quick yet authentic night out, with plenty of local flavor and atmosphere, this tour hits the mark.
However, it’s worth noting that if you’re a foodie looking for a longer, more immersive experience, this might feel a bit brief. Likewise, if you’re not keen on walking or don’t want to be on a tight schedule, you might prefer other options.
Final thoughts

This private cantina tour offers a friendly, straightforward way to dive into Guadalajara’s drinking and dining culture. It’s perfect for those who want a taste of local life, enjoy good food and drinks, and prefer a small-group setting. The fact that it’s all-inclusive makes it practical and stress-free, especially for travelers unfamiliar with the city or those who want to avoid extra expenses.
While the experience is short, it’s packed with genuine local flavor, lively atmosphere, and memorable bites. If you’re after a fun, authentic introduction to Guadalajara’s bar scene, this tour will serve you well.
Cantinas Private Tour – All incluided
FAQ

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians?
Since the tour features birria and traditional Mexican snacks, it’s likely meat-oriented. Vegetarians might want to check with the provider beforehand, but given the focus on meat dishes, it may not be the best fit.
Are drinks included in the price?
Yes, the tour is all-inclusive, so drinks and food at each stop are covered, meaning you can relax and enjoy without extra costs.
How long does the tour last?
It lasts about 1 to 2 hours, making it a quick but authentic experience—perfect if you’re short on time or want a lively evening without an all-day commitment.
Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Birriería las 9 Esquinas in the Zona Centro at 6:00 pm and ends at Cantina La Fuente, a historic spot full of character.
Is transportation included?
Yes, included transportation takes you from one cantina to another, saving you the hassle of navigating between locations.
Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, there’s a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance, with full refunds if you change your mind.
Is this a guided tour?
Absolutely, operated by experienced guides, ensuring you get insights and local tips along the way.
Is this experience family-friendly?
While the tour is most suitable for adult travelers, there’s no explicit restriction mentioned. Keep in mind that the focus on alcohol and traditional dishes might not be ideal for children.
How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 37 days in advance, so it’s good to reserve early to secure your spot.
If you’re eager to explore Guadalajara’s cantina scene without the fuss, this tour offers a fun, authentic, and tasty way to do it. Just be ready for lively atmospheres, flavorful bites, and an evening that captures a big part of what makes this city special.
More Private Tours in Guadalajara
- Private Adventure to El Tequileño Distillery and visit to Tequila
- Private Full-Day Tour to Tequila Visiting Tequilera José Cuervo
- Private Canyoning Adventure from Guadalajara, Jalisco
- Private Experience of Tequila Town from Jalisco
- Private Transportation to Guadalajara International Airport
- Private One Day Tour in Los Guachimontones and José Cuervo Tequila
More Tours in Guadalajara
- Fun Full and Cheap Tequila Tour from GDL on Thursdays
- Guadalajara: Premium Tequila Tour with Tastings and Pairings
- From Guadalajara: Guided Tour to Mazamitla and Eco-Park
- Private Full-Day Tour to Tequila Visiting Tequilera José Cuervo
- Guided Tour to Chapala Ajijic and Tlaquepaque from Guadalajara
- Private One Day Tour in Los Guachimontones and José Cuervo Tequila
More Tour Reviews in Guadalajara
- Private Adventure to El Tequileño Distillery and visit to Tequila
- Chauffeured Car Service
- Fun Full and Cheap Tequila Tour from GDL on Thursdays
- Guadalajara: Premium Tequila Tour with Tastings and Pairings
- From Guadalajara: Guided Tour to Mazamitla and Eco-Park
- Private Full-Day Tour to Tequila Visiting Tequilera José Cuervo
More Guadalajara experiences we've covered
- Cantinas Private Tour – All incluided
- Chauffeured Car Service
- Fun Full and Cheap Tequila Tour from GDL on Thursdays
- Guadalajara: Premium Tequila Tour with Tastings and Pairings
- From Guadalajara: Guided Tour to Mazamitla and Eco-Park
- Private Full-Day Tour to Tequila Visiting Tequilera José Cuervo
- Santo Ring Guadalajara Lucha Libre Experience
- Private Canyoning Adventure from Guadalajara, Jalisco
- Guided Tour to Chapala Ajijic and Tlaquepaque from Guadalajara
- Private Experience of Tequila Town from Jalisco
- Private Transportation to Guadalajara International Airport
- Chapala Lake and Ajijic from Guadalajara
