Flights from Los Angeles (LAX) to Guadalajara (GDL) from USD71

Getting ready to head from LAX to Mexico? Preparing ahead will keep your travel stress-free and give you a great start to your trip.

• Packing tips: Pack lightweight clothes for the daytime and a light sweater for cooler evenings. Don’t forget sunglasses and comfortable shoes for exploring historic streets and markets.
• Weather check: The best time to visit Guadalajara is during the dry season between October and May, when temperatures are mild and outdoor festivals are frequent.
• Travel documents: U.S. citizens need a valid passport. Double-check your tourist card (FMM) requirements—airlines often provide this during check-in.
• Airport timing: LAX is one of the busiest airports in the world, so arrive at least three hours early for international flights.
• Luggage rules: Review baggage size and weight limits with Volaris. Bringing home tequila or crafts? Consider checking a bag.
• Before boarding: If you need to pass time, check out things to do in LAX airport like grabbing sushi at Terminal 4 or unwinding in a Priority Pass lounge.

Touching down at Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla International Airport, you'll be about 30 minutes from the city center by car. The airport is well-connected and easy to navigate, with ATMs, currency exchange booths, and ground transport services just outside the terminal.

To get around right away, look into cheap car rentals in Guadalajara airport or use app-based rideshare options. You can also grab a prepaid taxi just outside baggage claim—be sure to confirm the price before getting in.

For first-timers wondering where to stay, the historic center is great for sightseeing, while Zapopan and Chapalita offer a quieter atmosphere. If you're watching your budget, there are plenty of cheap hotels in Guadalajara within walking distance of the main squares and markets.

Guadalajara brings together heritage with a modern edge. From food to art to architecture, there's something around every corner. Here are some standout stops:

• Hospicio Cabañas: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must for any visitor. Its frescoes by José Clemente Orozco and peaceful courtyards make it one of the top Guadalajara attractions for art and history lovers.
• Tlaquepaque: A lively artisan town absorbed into the metro area, Tlaquepaque is full of colorful galleries, handmade crafts, and mariachi performances. It’s one of the best spots if you’re looking for unique things to do in Guadalajara.
• Teatro Degollado: Right across from the city’s main cathedral, this 19th-century neoclassical theater hosts ballet, opera, and live music. The intricate interior makes it worth a visit, even if you don’t catch a show.
• Mercado San Juan de Dios: This sprawling market is ideal for trying popular foods in Guadalajara Mexico like birria, tortas ahogadas, and tejuino. It’s also great for picking up leather goods or souvenirs.
• Alcalde Park: Perfect for a relaxed afternoon, this urban park features fountains, sculptures, and walking trails. A quiet spot in the middle of the city, and perfect for a breather during a busy day of exploring.

Guadalajara rewards both the planners and the wanderers. With this day-by-day guide, you’ll see more than just the postcards—each stop is a window into local life, beyond what’s covered in any basic Guadalajara travel guide.

• Day 1: Historic Core & Landmarks
  • Visit the Guadalajara Cathedral and stroll Plaza de Armas.
  • Explore the frescoes inside Hospicio Cabañas.
  • Have dinner near Teatro Degollado at one of the best restaurants in Guadalajara.
• Day 2: Art, Crafts and Culture
  • Spend your morning in Tlaquepaque exploring artisan shops.
  • Visit the Museo de las Artes at the University of Guadalajara.
  • End your day in Chapultepec, a nightlife district filled with cafes and galleries.
• Day 3: Local Flavor & Chill
  • Try a local breakfast at Mercado Libertad.
  • Walk or bike through Alcalde Park and check out nearby murals.
  • Shop for gifts and snacks before your return flight.

• For the lowest fares, watch for cheap flights from LAX to Guadalajara Mexico during weekdays and non-holiday seasons.
• Many local museums and cultural sites offer free entry on Tuesdays—plan your itinerary accordingly to save while visiting top attractions.
• If you're in town on a weekend, check out the evening light shows at Plaza Tapatía or catch live mariachi at Plaza de los Mariachis—both are free and deeply tied to local tradition.
• Exploring on a budget? Use local buses or the light rail system, which connects major neighborhoods affordably.
• Want a deeper experience? Chat with local vendors and guides—they’ll tell you what to do in Guadalajara that’s off the tourist trail.