The Best Hotels to Book in Guadalajara for Every Traveler

In the heart of upscale Zapopan – a glitzy Guadalajara neighborhood to the west of the city – the Hyatt Regency caters to visitors that want to be close to the city’s green parks and big-bucks retailers, with Guadalajara’s most exclusive shopping center, Andares, almost on its doorstep. Tour the agave-studded town of Santiago de Tequila, birthplace of Mexico’s most-famous export, then return to sip craft cocktails at the hotel’s pool.

If you plan on hitting Jalisco’s tequila hard, this thematic rocker retreat in Zapopan is loud and proud. For instant VIP rock-star status, book yourself a backstage pass to one of the amplified suites, each with a curated collection of 10 iconic records, a Crosley turntable and devil-may-care design, such as Stones-esque red-lip couches and lighting to suit your mood. Elsewhere, the ambient soundscape continues with live-music sessions in the UTC-6 lobby bar and tunes on tap at the 30th-floor rooftop spot.

Part of Hilton’s boutique Guadalajara hotel venture, Hotel 1970 Posada Guadalajara is a cornerstone of the architecturally arresting district of Chapalita. As part of the Curio Collection, the urban hideaway puts design at the forefront, maintaining the historic hotel’s neoclassical columns and weaving in an upcycled rough-cut wood theme throughout. Leafy Chapalita has some great street-food taco joints to discover, and wonderful examples of Mexican modernist architecture by Luis Barragán in easy walking distance.

This understated 1970s hotel in Colonia Americana is like your favorite comfy pair of shoes. There are no signature restaurants or fancy refit. Instead, this Guadalajara hotel plays it simple, offering a tranquil oasis in the midst of downtown Guadalajara for travelers that like to be in the thick of things, but have a hideaway on standby for when they want to escape the hustle and bustle with a tequila by the pool, surrounded by groomed, secluded gardens.

Del Carmen Concept Hotel in Guadalajara’s historic center has nine rooms showcasing the Breakaway Generation of artists that moved the Mexican art scene away from the murals of Diego Rivera and David Alfaro Siqueiros. The striking interiors have transformed an 1867 neoclassical mansion, with each room embracing the Surrealist and Expressionist art of the famously non-homogenous group of creatives. Waking up to the riot of color in the master suite Tamayo is a fantastic way to start any day.

Ideally located in the Pink Zone of Guadalajara, a favorite among tourists, Villa Ganz Boutique Hotel places you in the center of all the action, with restaurants, bars and art galleries all in close proximity. Known for being the first boutique hotel in Guadalajara, Villa Ganz lives up to its reputation by continuing to be one of the best. Originally an old mansion, constructed in the ’30s, it has 10 rooms, each as delightful as the next. The charm of the place remains intact, and the ample communal spaces are beautifully decorated and modern with cozy touches. The rooms, each named in homage to famed Jalisco author Juan Rulfo, are equally as notable, homely and comfortable.

This architecturally impressive hotel is one of Guadalajara’s best thanks to its wealth of amenities – including an art gallery, artesanías shop and a sky bar – all under one roof. Rather than going down the typical route of redoing a colonial house, Demetria leans towards the ultra-modern, albeit with antiques dotted about the place; think glass walls, clean lines and striking design features, all hinged on a neutral color scheme of blacks and greys.

Located in the nearby town of Tlaquepaque, famous throughout Mexico for its striking clay artesanías(pottery), San Pietro Hotel Boutique is about a 20-minute taxi ride from the center of Guadalajara. But it’s worth the journey, we say, because San Pietro’s location right in the center of this charming, colorful town is one of its best features and the hotel gives easy access to all Tlaquepaque has to offer. Boasting soothing, neutral design in each of its rooms, some even come with their own patio – though all guests are free to hang out at the communal poolside version, beside leafy gardens and an adjoining bar.

If you’re traveling on a budget and looking for a traditional Mexican experience, Casa Vilasanta ticks a lot of boxes. Better still, it’s excellently positioned between arguably the two most important areas of Guadalajara – the party avenue of Chapultepec, home to great restaurants and bars, and the cultural, historic center of the city, replete with impressive architecture. Make the most of the spacious central patio to hang out with other travelers and soak up the vibrancy of this cucumber-cool casa.

Another Tlaquepaque option, Quinta Don José similarly positions you in the heart of the town, near all the bars, restaurants and attractions you could wish for. Thanks to being family-owned and run, the staff are helpful and will happily arrange on-site massages or spa treatments, or even tours of the surrounding areas. Their manicured grounds display several works by talented local artists. Don’t miss the chance to dine at their restaurant, TlaquePasta, either.

Casa Pedro Loza Petit Hotel in Guadalajara is something special. Featuring eight guest rooms, three master suites and even a luxurious honeymoon suite, no two rooms are alike at this sumptuously decorated spot in the center of Guadalajara. The original layout and feel of the old mansion has been respected, but tasteful contemporary touches have been added which bring this boutique hotel bang up to date, without losing its old-school essence. The Jardin Secreto (Secret Garden) suite is our top choice for its courtyard budding with tropical plants, crowned by a decadent hot tub.

Classy, sophisticated and luxurious is how we’d describe Square Small Luxury Hotel. The building itself is modern and minimalist in style, with 40 suites and rooms spread over five floors, veering from classic to contemporary. The beds are kitten-soft and the overall service is one of its standout features: concierges are on hand to provide advice, make reservations and generally make your stay in Guadalajara something akin to a mariachi marching party.

What better way to tap in to Guadalajara’s culture than to stay in a local family’s home? Hostal de Pablo y Lucha offers just that, so you can save some pesos and really immerse yourself in all that Mexico has to offer. The family themselves are incredibly friendly, welcoming you and making you feel at home. Rooms are clean and simple, making them a popular choice for young travelers and budget-conscious backpackers.