Flights from San Antonio (SAT) to Guadalajara (GDL) from USD86

Smooth prep at San Antonio airport (SAT):

• Documents & check‑in: Passport and any required entry forms; check in online and arrive 3 hours early for international departures.
• Baggage rules: Confirm carry‑on/checked limits; keep meds, chargers, and valuables in your cabin bag. Power banks travel in carry‑on only.
• What to pack: Lightweight layers, comfy shoes, and a small daypack; Guadalajara’s altitude means warm days and milder nights.
• Airport flow: Know your terminal; allow for TSA at peak times (early mornings, holidays). Bring a refillable bottle for post‑security.
• Money & connectivity: Tell your bank, download ride apps and offline maps, consider an eSIM for data in Mexico.
• Climate check: Review weather in Guadalajara the day before flying—summer showers are common; evenings can cool off.

Land at Guadalajara airport (GDL), about 18–20 km from the historic center—roughly 30–45 minutes depending on traffic. After immigration and baggage claim, you’ll find ATMs, SIM desks, and ground‑transport counters.

Getting to your hotel:

• Authorized taxis: Buy a fixed‑rate ticket at the official booth; hand it to the driver outside.
• App rides: Request at marked pick‑up zones and verify the license plate.
• Shuttles/private transfers: Good for groups or late arrivals.
• Car rental: Useful for day trips to Tequila or Lake Chapala.

Most hotels are in the city center (Centro Histórico), Chapultepec, or Zapopan—each with its own vibe. On arrival, try a quick torta ahogada or fresh juice at the airport cafés to start your culinary adventure.

Culture, neighborhoods, and open‑air viewpoints—here’s a compact starter list of things to do in Guadalajara.

Tlaquepaque
This artisan neighborhood is famous for colorful streets, galleries, and live mariachi. Pick up hand-painted ceramics or enjoy a leisurely lunch in a shaded courtyard.

Bosque Los Colomos
A leafy park with running paths, a small Japanese garden, and picnic spots. Ideal for a morning walk before café‑hopping nearby in Providencia.

Basilica of Zapopan & Plaza
Metro‑area landmark with a lively plaza and museums. Pair the visit with street snacks and a late‑afternoon people‑watching session.

Chapultepec Avenue
This trendy boulevard is lined with cafes, bars, and boutiques. It’s the place to experience Guadalajara’s modern side, especially on weekends when the street comes alive with events and music.

Barranca de Huentitán Viewpoints
North‑side canyon lookouts reward early risers with big‑sky scenes. Bring water and sun protection; trails get steep and hot by midday.

Make the most of your trip with this three-day plan:

Day 1 — Downtown icons & galleries

• Morning at Museo Cabañas for Orozco murals and courtyards.
• Lunch around Plaza de la Liberación; try birria tacos or pozole.
• Sunset café crawl in Colonia Americana and photo stop at the Arcos.

Day 2 — Crafts, chapels, and bookshops

• Half‑day in Tonalá browsing pottery studios and workshops.
• Coffee break in Chapalita circle; check weekend art fairs.
• Evening walk along Avenida Chapultepec markets and bookstores.

Day 3 — Lakeside escape

• Drive to Chapala & Ajijic for boardwalk views and lakeside lunch.
• Quick stop at Chapala Malecon for ice cream and photos.
• Back in the city, night tour at Panteón de Belén (guided entry required).

• Time vs. price: A San Antonio to Guadalajara flight with one short connection can rival total travel time by road; compare layovers carefully.
• Airport rides: Use licensed taxis or app pickups at GDL; confirm your meeting point inside the terminal before stepping out.
• Dining game plan: Reserve weekends in Americana/Providencia; popular tables fill fast.
• Cash & cards: Cards work widely; carry small MXN bills for tips, kiosks, and mercados.
• Rain strategy: Summer storms pass quickly—slot museums midday and keep a light shell in your daypack.