How to make the most out of your layover in Guadalajara

Guadalajara is Mexico's third-largest city, and it has an airport to match. Guadalajara International Airport is a major hub for the low-cost airline Volaris as well as Aeromexico and Viva, among others. As such, the airport receives more than 15 million passengers every year, making it the third busiest airport in Mexico to match Guadalajara's status as the third-biggest Mexican city.

Flights arrive from and depart to destinations all over the world from here. That makes the airport an extremely busy place, and if you only have a short layover, you may not have enough time to see the city. The airport has enough to keep you occupied for a few hours while you wait for a connecting flight. However, if your layover is a little longer or you just want to experience the charm of the city, you can consider exploring the city from Guadalajara airport. Make sure you leave yourself enough time to navigate customs and make the connection to the city so that you aren't rushed. And for a longer layover in Guadalajara, it's possible to stay overnight close by at spots like the Hampton Inn.

If you do decide to explore, Bounce can help. Download our app to help you find convenient Guadalajara luggage storage close to the airport and throughout the city. You don't need a hotel to have somewhere to store your bags; instead, Bounce can hold onto any size of bags for as long as you need, helping to free up more time so you can explore and still make your next flight on schedule.

Things to know before leaving Guadalajara Airport

Airport navigation and transit options

Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla International Airport (GDL) is easy to navigate, with efficient services for domestic and international flights. Rideshares, taxis, and shuttle buses are available to take you to the city center. Public transportation, including buses, is economical but slower, so it may not be the best option for a short layover.

In terms of a visa, it's important to know what the requirements are for entering Mexico. Permanent residents of the United States, Canada, and the Schengen area of the EU, for example, do not need a visa to enter Mexico. If you aren't from one of these countries but have a visa to enter them, Mexico will also recognize that visa and allow you to enter without applying for an additional visa.

Note that this exemption is based on your permanent residence, not your citizenship, so it's a good idea to bring proof of address with you if you intend to take advantage of this program.

If you are a resident of the country not on the visa-exempt list, you will need to apply for a visa if you intend to enter Guadalajara, so make sure you have your paperwork in order before you get on your flight.

Minimum layover times in Guadalajara

With Guadalajara’s proximity to the airport and its compact historic center, you can experience the city even on a short layover:

• Short layover (2-3 hours): Stay at the airport to enjoy local flavors and shop for regional souvenirs.
• 4-6 hour layover: Head downtown to explore the historic center and enjoy a quick meal.
• 8+ hour layover: Take a deeper dive into Guadalajara’s landmarks, culture, and local cuisine.

What to do in Guadalajara during a layover

Guadalajara’s vibrant culture and walkable historic center make it an ideal city to explore during a layover. The bus from the ground floor of the airport can make the trip into the city in as little as 11 minutes, so you can drop off your bags with a Bounce bag storage at the airport itself, and then head into the city hands-free. Alternatively, you can take a taxi, but make sure to get a firm price from the taxi operator before you start. However you choose to make your way into the city, it will be a lot easier if you aren't carrying more than you need to.

Once you arrive, you'll find plenty to do in Guadalajara to keep you occupied before your connecting flight. From iconic plazas to delicious cuisine, here’s how to make the most of your visit.

Short layover (2-3 hours): Relax at Guadalajara Airport

If your layover is brief, stay at GDL and enjoy its amenities. There's no point stressing yourself out to make it into the city in such a short window of time, and there's enough to do at the airport itself that you can stay busy for a couple of hours without having to risk missing your next flight.

• Activities: Visit airport shops to pick up locally made crafts, tequila, or souvenirs. Look for Tlaquepaque ceramics or handwoven textiles, which represent Guadalajara’s artisan culture. You can also choose to relax at one of the airport’s lounges or grab a bite at a restaurant in the upper-level food court.
• Dining: Try a torta ahogada (a local sandwich drenched in spicy tomato sauce) or other regional dishes at Guacamole, located in the airport.

Half-day layover (4-6 hours): Historic center

With a few hours to spare, head downtown to experience Guadalajara’s historic charm and lively plazas. A layover this long is enough to soak up some of the atmosphere, try some of the delicious food, or take in some of the historic sites. However, you'll need to be a little bit selective, as you won't have time to see it all. Think about what most appeals to you and target that instead of trying to cram everything in and not enjoying it as much as you could.

• Activities: Start at Plaza de Armas, the heart of the city, surrounded by stunning architecture like the Guadalajara Cathedral and the Government Palace. The plaza is perfect for a self-guided tour. Walk to the Rotonda de los Jaliscienses Ilustres, a monument honoring notable figures from Jalisco, or explore Plaza Tapatía, a bustling square that connects the historic center with cultural landmarks like the Instituto Cultural Cabañas, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring incredible murals by José Clemente Orozco.
• Dining choices: Enjoy authentic Mexican cuisine at La Chata, a beloved restaurant near the city center known for its pozole and enchiladas. You can also stop by a street vendor for a quick snack like elote (grilled corn) or tacos.

Full-day layover (8+ hours): Explore even further

A longer layover allows you to explore Guadalajara’s culture, history, and surrounding neighborhoods.

• Activities: Spend time at the Instituto Cultural Cabañas, where you can admire the photo-worthy frescoes and learn about the region’s artistic heritage. Large bags aren't allowed inside, so make sure you leave yours behind at a Bounce luggage storage location. We can look after any size of bags for as long as you need so that you don't have to worry about following the rules, and can simply pick up your belongings on your way back to the airport.
• Visit Tlaquepaque, a nearby artsy neighborhood known for its colorful streets, artisan markets, and galleries. The area is also famous for mariachi performances in its central plaza. Consider the short drive to Tequila, the birthplace of Mexico’s iconic spirit, where you can tour a distillery and learn about the tequila-making process - this is best for layovers of 10+ hours.
• Another option is to walk along the Paseo Chapultepec, a trendy area with shops, cafes, and restaurants offering a modern take on Guadalajara’s culture.
• Dinner options: Visit Casa Luna in Tlaquepaque for a unique dining experience in a colorful, artsy setting. Try Birrieria Las 9 Esquinas for a taste of birria, a traditional stew originating from Jalisco.

Tips for making the most of your Guadalajara layover

• Plan for traffic: Guadalajara’s streets can get busy, especially during rush hour, so plan your return to the airport with extra time.
• Currency: Mexico uses the Mexican peso (MXN). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s helpful to have cash for street vendors and small businesses.
• Weather: Guadalajara has a pleasant climate year-round, but bring sunscreen and water if you’re planning to walk outdoors.
• Safety: The historic center and tourist areas are generally safe, but keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded places. The best way to keep your things protected is to leave them behind at a Bounce luggage storage, either near the airport or in the center of town. Our carefully vetted partners can look after your belongings for as long as you need, so you won't have to worry about anything happening to them and can instead concentrate on enjoying yourself.

Whether you’re taking a quick stroll through the historic center, enjoying a plate of birria in Tlaquepaque, or marveling at the murals in the Instituto Cultural Cabañas, Guadalajara offers an authentic taste of Mexican culture. If you have enough time to leave the airport and explore the city, it's well worth taking the opportunity to explore the city's history and food. Leave your bags behind with Bounce and make the most of your time in Guadalajara with your hands-free.