City Overview
Guadalajara
Mexico's second-largest city offers a more manageable urban experience than the capital, with strong cultural traditions and proximity to the tequila-producing region.
Birthplace of mariachi music, Guadalajara's historic centre features colonial architecture, while nearby towns of Tequila and Tlaquepaque provide artisan experiences.
The Stadium
Estadio Akron (Capacity: 48,000)
Also known as Estadio Chivas, Estadio Akron is home to C.D. Guadalajara (Chivas).
The only World Cup venue not hosting a knockout stage fixture, this modern stadium features a distinctive volcanic rock-inspired design.
Fan Zones & Public Viewing
Details are still being finalised, but expect fan gatherings at:
- Plaza Tapatía.
- Glorieta de la Minerva area.
- Chapultepec Avenue.
Fans Visiting Guadalajara
Guadalajara hosts four matches in total.
- Thursday, 11th June - South Korea vs UEFA D.
- Thursday, 18th June - Mexico vs South Korea.
- Tuesday, 23rd June - Colombia vs FIFA 1.
- Friday, 26th June - Uruguay vs Spain.
Getting There
By Air
Guadalajara International Airport (GDL) is located 25km from the city.
- Taxi/Uber: Estadio Akron is not the easiest to reach by public transport, so many visitors opt for a taxi or Uber. The ride from central Guadalajara typically takes 12–17 minutes and costs around $7–9 USD, depending on traffic and your starting point.
- Buses: You can take any bus line to the Zapopan station. From there, it’s about a 15-20 minute walk to the stadium.
Accomodation
Where to Stay in Guadalajara
- Zapopan: Closest to the stadium, modern hotels.
- Providencia: Traditional charm, walkable.
- Centro Histórico: Upscale dining and shopping area.
- Tlaquepaque: Artisan town atmosphere.
Eat & Drink
Where to Go
- Sports Bars: Concentrated in Providencia and Zapopan.
- Birria: La Cholula, Birriería Las 9 Esquinas.
- Tortas Ahogadas: Tortas Ahogadas El Guero.
- Cantinas: La Fuente, Casa Bariachi.
Local Cuisine
Highlights
Birria (goat stew).
- Tortas ahogadas ('drowned' sandwiches).
- Carne en su jugo (meat in broth).
- Tequila and raicilla (local spirits).
- Tejuino (fermented corn drink).
Top Attractions
What to See in Guadalajara
- Tequila distilleries (José Cuervo, Herradura).
- Tlaquepaque artisan village.
- Hospicio Cabañas (UNESCO site).
- Guadalajara Cathedral.
- Teatro Degollado.
- Tlaquepaque and Tonalá markets.
Getting Around Guadalajara
Guadalajara has an expanded metro system called SITEUR (Tren Ligero), which is considered one of the best light rail/subway systems and is safe during the day and early evening. It has 3 lines that cover much of the city, and a ride costs about 10 Mexican pesos (around US$0.50)
- Bus Lines: Several bus lines crisscross the city, offering cheap rides typically costing between MX$9.50-15 (US$0.50-0.80). The Macrobus Juan Álvarez is a convenient and affordable bus service with stops near major attractions.
- To use buses, you usually need exact change, and to signal your stop, press the 'stop' button near the rear door with enough warning for the driver to pull over safely.
- The cheapest way to get to and from Guadalajara International Airport is by city bus, costing less than US$1. It can be crowded and makes frequent stops but is very economical.
- Ride-Sharing: Uber is widely available, easy to use, and affordable.
- Taxis: Airport taxis are recommended if you arrive late or are tired, as they provide a more direct and convenient ride than the bus.
Practical Tips
- Book tequila tours in advance.
- Best time to visit downtown: evenings.
- Learn basic Spanish; less English spoken in Guadalajara than Mexico City.
- Purchase crafts in Tlaquepaque/Tonalá.
- Try street food at Mercado Libertad (San Juan de Dios).
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