How to Visit Tequila, Mexico from Guadalajara: Distilleries, Agave Fields & Tips

Planning to visit Tequila, Mexico, from Guadalajara?

Great idea!

Much more than just the name of Mexico’s most famous drink, Tequila is a Pueblo Mágico surrounded by the spectacular UNESCO-listed agave landscape of Jalisco, and one of the most popular day trips from Guadalajara.

Whether you travel independently, join an organized tour, or board the famous José Cuervo Express train, visiting Tequila requires a bit of planning—especially during busy periods such as weekends or major events like the World Cup in Guadalajara.

Distillery tours, guided tastings, and experiences in the agave fields fill up quickly, so booking in advance is highly recommended.

In this complete guide, I explain how to visit Tequila from Guadalajara, which distilleries to visit, what to see beyond the tastings, how much a visit costs in 2026, and my best tips to make the most of your trip.

So, how do you visit Tequila from Guadalajara? Let’s go!

1. Tequila: should you visit and what to expect?

The town of Tequila is located in the state of Jalisco, at the foot of the volcano of the same name, in the heart of a vast region covered with blue agave fields.

Easily accessible from Guadalajara, Tequila is one of the most popular excursions in the region. It can be visited on a day trip or a short stay, whether you come by rental car, bus, or organized tour.

Once there, everything revolves around blue agave and tequila production, protected by a designation of origin. Historic distilleries, agave landscapes, local traditions, and tastings punctuate the visit.

The town of Tequila is small and easy to explore on foot. The historic center is organized around the main square, where you’ll find the church, the colorful letters of Tequila, sculptures of jimadores, cafes, shops, and most of the entertainment.

During the week, the atmosphere is fairly calm and local. On weekends, especially Saturdays, the town becomes more lively with the arrival of visitors from Guadalajara and organized tours.

Tequila is ideal for couples, groups of friends, and solo travelers alike. The visit is relatively short but intense, and can easily be combined with a stay in Guadalajara.

There are two main ways to discover Tequila, depending on your travel style:

• Organized tour: a structured package including transportation, distillery visits, and tastings. This is a popular option for first-time visitors who want to enjoy the experience to the fullest without worrying about the logistics. Book your trip to Tequila here! 
• Independent visit: more freedom in terms of schedules and places visited. This option is suitable if you are comfortable with local transportation or car rental, and if you want to organize your distillery visits and visiting times yourself.

2. How to get to Tequila from Guadalajara

Getting to Tequila from Guadalajara is very easy.

There are several options available to you, depending on your budget, time, and travel style: car, bus, tourist train, or organized tour.

Tequila remains one of the most accessible excursions from Guadalajara, even for travelers without a car.

2.1 By car

Going to Tequila by car from Guadalajara is the most flexible option. The journey takes between 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes, depending on traffic. The road is in good condition as it has just been resurfaced for the World Cup!

The easiest route is to take Highway 15D towards Tepic, then the exit for Tequila. There are a few tolls and fuel costs to consider, but nothing out of the ordinary for a day trip.

As you know, finding a reliable car rental agency in Mexico is not easy, as scams and disappointments are unfortunately common.

To rent a car, personally, I always use Booking.com Cars, for a few reasons:

• You can easily compare the rental cars prices between all the agencies: for sure the easiest way to find the best rate!
• Cancellation is often offered free of charge: no need to worry if you change your mind
• Booking Cars offers full insurance coverage at a lower price than the rental companies, so it’s an instant saving with no effort

Simply click on the green button to find your rental car at the best price:

2.2 By bus

The Guadalajara-Tequila bus is the most economical option. Departures are mainly from the Central Vieja or the Zapopan terminal. Buses run regularly, with several departures per day.

The journey takes an average of 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the number of stops. The bus is comfortable, with reclining seats and air conditioning. This option is ideal for solo travelers, as well as those who want to visit Tequila without a car and on a budget.

The fare is approximately 70 pesos per person for a one-way trip, with departures every 20 minutes. Cash pesos are preferred.

2.3 The José Cuervo Express train

The José Cuervo Express is an immersive tourist experience dedicated to discovering tequila, combining transportation, entertainment, and cultural visits.

The train departs from San Pedro Tlaquepaque, a town located about 20 to 30 minutes from downtown Guadalajara, depending on traffic.

The departure point is easily accessible by taxi, private hire car, or private transportation, making it easy to reach the train from the main tourist areas of Guadalajara.

The journey connects San Pedro Tlaquepaque to Tequila aboard a train specially designed to offer a festive and friendly atmosphere.

During the trip, passengers enjoy mariachi music, entertainment, and guided tastings of José Cuervo tequilas while traveling through Jalisco’s iconic agave landscapes.

The José Cuervo Express ticket includes round-trip transportation, access to La Rojeña, the oldest distillery in Latin America still in operation, as well as an official guided tour and several supervised tastings.

The experience also includes cultural activities organized in Tequila, folkloric shows, and free time to explore the historic center of Tequila.

Different levels of service are available, ranging from standard to premium cars, offering increased comfort, more personalized service, and more exclusive tastings.

The package is designed as a complete turnkey day trip, ideal for visiting Tequila in a single day without having to worry about driving or logistics.

Purchase your José Cuervo train tickets here:

2.4 Organized tours

Tours to Tequila from Guadalajara are very popular and the easiest way to discover the town and its distilleries. They usually include round-trip transportation, one or two distillery tours, guided tastings, and free time in downtown Tequila.

The main advantage is simplicity: you don’t have to worry about transportation or driving after the tastings, everything is organized so you can fully enjoy the experience, stress-free.

These excursions are particularly recommended if you are visiting Guadalajara, traveling in a group, or want a smooth and well-paced first introduction to Tequila.

Depending on the package you choose, some focus on efficiency over the course of a day, while others offer a more immersive approach with less touristy distilleries.

• I recommend this full-day guided tour from Guadalajara, which combines agave fields, guided distillery tours, and a visit to the Pueblo Mágico de Tequila, with tastings and free time to explore the town.

The tour ends in the festive atmosphere of the famous Cantaritos El Güero, with music and local specialties, for a complete immersion in tequila culture.

3. What to do in Tequila? Distilleries and must-see attractions

Visiting Tequila allows you to taste Mexico’s most famous drink and discover the unique craftsmanship surrounding blue agave.

The town is home to several iconic distilleries, UNESCO-listed landscapes, a charming little historic center, and spectacular views, all easily accessible from Guadalajara.

3.1 Must-see distilleries in Tequila

• The Sauza Distillery

This is one of the oldest distilleries in Tequila, offering several tours tailored to different profiles and budgets.

The Perseverancia tour, the shortest, allows you to discover the distillery and cellars, with the added bonus of making your own cantarito. The Casa Sauza tour adds an immersion in the agave fields and a demonstration of jima.

For a more complete experience, the Hornitos tour includes an extended visit and a meal, while the 3 Generaciones tour is for those looking for a premium experience in Tequila, with several hours of visiting and a gourmet lunch.

Whichever option you choose, it is recommended to book in advance, especially on weekends.

• La Fábrica La Rojeña de José Cuervo

The oldest tequila distillery in Latin America now offers a wide range of experiences in Tequila, suitable for everyone from the curious to the true connoisseur.

La Ruta del Origen is the most comprehensive experience: transportation from Guadalajara, discovery of the agave fields, tour of the distillery, and tasting at the end of the day.

For a quicker visit, the Clásica tour allows you to understand the essentials of the production process in less than an hour, while the José Cuervo experience focuses on tasting the house’s iconic tequilas.

More immersive packages include exploring the agave fields, personalized blending, or food pairings, while premium experiences such as Reserva de la Familia or night tours offer a more exclusive and sensory approach to tequila.

As these experiences are in high demand, it is strongly recommended to book in advance, especially on weekends.

Here is a list of other options from the largest distilleries in the region around Tequila:

• Fortaleza: an artisanal distillery renowned for its traditional methods and high-end tequilas, which are highly appreciated by connoisseurs.
• La Cofradía: a large, modern distillery offering accessible tours, with an on-site hotel and restaurant.
• El Cascahuín: family-run production in Amatitán, known for its strict adherence to ancestral methods.
• Herradura: a historic estate with gardens and a hacienda, ideal for a complete cultural visit.
• Ocho: a distillery that emphasizes harvests by agave plot.
• Arette: a small independent distillery appreciated for its authentic tequilas and excellent value for money.

Among the more authentic distilleries, Fortaleza is particularly appreciated for its traditional methods, stone mill, and small-scale tequila production. Visits here are more intimate and focused on craftsmanship.

La Cofradía offers a more modern approach, with an accessible distillery, hotel, and restaurant on site, ideal for combining a visit with relaxation.

Nearby, El Cascahuín and Arette, located on the Amatitán side, appeal to travelers seeking authenticity and terroir-focused tequilas.

3.2 UNESCO-listed agave fields

The blue agave fields surrounding Tequila are part of the UNESCO-listed agave landscape.

They are easily accessible from the town, either on foot for some areas or via organized tours. The best light is in the early morning and late afternoon, when the agaves take on spectacular bluish hues.

The blue agave fields around Tequila are part of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed agave landscape, an area covering tens of thousands of hectares that traces the history of agave cultivation and tequila production throughout the region.

These plantations can be viewed free of charge from many public roads around Tequila and Amatitán, but access to the interior of the plots remains private outside of guided tours.

Areas easily accessible on foot from the center of Tequila to view the agave fields from public spaces:

• Campo de Agave – Mexico Route 15 (20.8600, -103.7580): agave fields visible free of charge from the federal highway towards Amatitán, accessible on foot from the center of Tequila by staying on public roads.
• Agave Fields (20.8885, -103.7260): rural area near Tequila offering large agave plantations that can be viewed from secondary roads and farm tracks without entering private land.

For a more complete immersion in the agave fields, access is via organized tours or official distillery visits, which include a guided walk through the plantations with explanations about agave cultivation and demonstrations of jima, the traditional cutting of the plant.

The agave landscapes can also be admired while traveling on tourist trains such as the José Cuervo Express or the Tequila Express, which run on the railway line between San Pedro Tlaquepaque (Guadalajara) and Tequila, crossing vast areas of UNESCO-listed plantations without actually traveling inside the fields.

3.3 The historic center of Tequila

Everything is concentrated around Tequila’s main square, which is very easy to explore on foot.

This is the heart of the town, with the Parroquia Santiago Apóstol, benches arranged around the square, and a particularly lively atmosphere on weekends.

There are also colorful letters spelling out “Tequila,” surrounded by agaves, as well as a sculpture of jimadores, which have become a must-see photo opportunity.

Right next door, the MUNAT (National Tequila Museum) provides a better understanding of the history, production techniques, and cultural importance of tequila in Mexico, complementing visits to distilleries.

A nice surprise awaits you if you enter the Edificio Municipal (City Hall): inside, a large fresco traces the history of tequila and agave cultivation.

Admission is completely free, and you are perfectly entitled to enter—take advantage of it, unlike many visitors who don’t dare to walk through the door.

From the main square, take José Cuervo Street, which leads to the Juan Beckmann Gallardo Cultural Center.

It is a magnificent building that exhibits antique carriages, pre-Hispanic heads, silver art, and more than 500 works of folk art, offering another perspective on the local heritage.

Around the main square, the streets are lined with craft shops, tasting bars, and traditional restaurants, creating a friendly and authentic atmosphere, ideal for strolling and taking your time.

3.4 The Mirador de Tequila

For a pleasant break with spectacular views, the Mirador de Tequila is an excellent option. Located on the heights southwest of the city, just above the historic center, it offers an unobstructed view of Tequila, the agave fields, and the Tequila volcano.

It is easily accessible by car or taxi in about ten minutes from the Plaza Principal, and it is also possible to walk up for the more motivated, allowing for a brisk walk of about 30 to 40 minutes. It is an ideal place to take a break, take photos, and enjoy the late afternoon light.

If you are staying in Tequila, the Mirador is a nice stop that can easily be included in your itinerary. However, if you are only spending a day in Tequila and returning to Guadalajara in the evening, I suggest you focus on the town’s other main attractions to make the most of your time there.

3.5 Tequila Canyon (Barranca de Tequila)

If you are a nature lover, I highly recommend a visit to the Barranca de Tequila. Located slightly north/east of the city, a few minutes from the center of Tequila by taxi/car, this natural area offers several freely accessible hiking trails with beautiful views of the gorges, local vegetation, and surrounding volcanic landscape.

The shortest trails can be done without a guide, staying on the visible paths and preferably setting off early in the morning to avoid the heat. It’s an excellent alternative to distillery tours for discovering a more natural and authentic side of Tequila.

4. How Much Does It Cost to Visit Tequila? Prices, Opening Hours & Budget

Visiting Tequila mainly involves costs related to distilleries, transportation, and meals. In 2026, prices remain reasonable compared to other tourist destinations in Mexico, but vary greatly depending on the level of experience chosen.

4.1 Distillery opening hours

Most distilleries in Tequila open between 10 a.m. and 11 a.m. and close between 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. The first tours usually take place in the morning, which is the best time to avoid the crowds and enjoy the tastings in good conditions.

On weekends, especially Saturdays, slots fill up quickly. During the week, the atmosphere is calmer and tours are often more personalized.

4.2 Should you book in advance?

Some large distilleries such as José Cuervo and Sauza accept visitors without reservations, but this depends heavily on how busy they are.

For smaller distilleries or those renowned for their artisanal approach, booking in advance is strongly recommended, especially during peak season.

If you want to improvise, you can go directly to Tequila, where tours are sold in the main square with frequent departures, allowing you to enjoy a local experience without having to make any arrangements.

4.3 Average prices for tours and tastings

The prices of tours in Tequila vary depending on the duration, the number of tastings, and the prestige of the distillery:

• Simple tour: 300 to 500 pesos (~$15 to $26)
  Ideal for a first visit, this option allows you to discover the distillery, understand the manufacturing process, and participate in a guided tasting. Perfect for those who want to see the essentials quickly.
• Full tour: 600 to 1,000 pesos (~$31 to $52)
  This option includes everything offered in the basic tour, but adds a walk through the agave fields, free time in downtown Tequila, and sometimes additional activities to deepen the experience and fully enjoy the town and its landscape.
• Premium or private experiences: 1,200 pesos and up (~$73 and up)
  These tours offer a truly different experience from the classic tours. They may include a ride on the José Cuervo Express or Tequila Express, with access to premium cars, tastings of rare and limited editions, very small groups, and sometimes exclusive activities such as cocktail making or a blending workshop. This is the perfect option for those who want a complete and memorable immersion, far from the standard tours.

Most tours include several tequila tastings, accompanied by explanations about blue agave, distillation, and aging.

4.4 How much does a day in Tequila cost?

The budget for visiting Tequila depends mainly on the mode of transportation and the number of distilleries visited. On average:

• Bus transportation: 200 pesos
• Distillery tours: 400 to 1,500 pesos
• Meals and drinks: 300 to 600 pesos

That’s a total of about 900 to 4,600 pesos per person for a full day.

4.5 Low budget vs. comfortable budget

Low budget: Count on bus transportation, a distillery tour, and a simple meal. This offers you an authentic, simple, and quick but controlled experience, ideal for discovering Tequila without stress and on a small budget. Approximately 800 pesos per day: 47 usd.

Comfortable budget: organized tour from Guadalajara or José Cuervo Express, several visits, lunch included. These experiences are comprehensive, smooth, and hassle-free, with a slightly higher cost that is well worth it.

Approximately 1,000 to 4,600 pesos: $50-$230 depending on the package chosen (if you opt for the Elite version of the José Cuervo Train, it will cost you more).

4.6 How much time should you allow for visiting Tequila?

The time you should allow for visiting Tequila depends on your pace and your interests.

Half a day or a full day in Tequila is enough to explore the historic center, visit one or two distilleries, and enjoy the agave fields, making it an ideal tour from Guadalajara.

However, spending a night there allows you to visit more distilleries, explore the surrounding area such as the Mirador de Tequila or the Barranca de Tequila, and enjoy the town once the day trippers have left.

5. Best time to visit Tequila

5.1 Climate and seasons

The best time to visit Tequila depends largely on the climate and seasons. Located in the state of Jalisco, the town enjoys a pleasant climate all year round, but the dry season, from November to April, is the most recommended.

Temperatures are moderate, the days are sunny, and conditions are ideal for visiting the distilleries, the historic center, and the UNESCO-listed agave fields.

The rainy season, from June to September, transforms the landscape and makes the agave fields particularly green and photogenic. Rains are generally short and concentrated at the end of the day, allowing visitors to continue their tour without too many constraints.

On the other hand, humidity is higher and some hikes may be less comfortable.

April and May are the hottest months, with temperatures that can exceed 86°F. Visits are still possible, but it is advisable to schedule tastings in the morning and to stay well hydrated, especially when visiting distilleries.

5.2 Crowds: best days and times

Crowds in Tequila vary greatly depending on the day and time of your visit.

During the week, the atmosphere is calmer and distillery tours are often more enjoyable and personalized.

On weekends, especially Saturdays, the city becomes much livelier with the arrival of tours from Guadalajara, especially between late morning and mid-afternoon.

If you can, I recommend arriving early in the morning or planning to stay overnight so you can enjoy Tequila outside of peak hours.

The agave fields are best visited early in the morning or late in the afternoon, when the light is softer, the heat is bearable, and the conditions are perfect for photos.

Finally, keep in mind that Mexican holidays and vacation periods greatly increase the number of visitors.

For a more enjoyable experience, visit during the week, or arrive as early as possible if you come on the weekend.

5.3 Cultural events to consider

Several festivals and events take place in Tequila throughout the year and can influence the best time to visit Tequila. The most important is the Feria Nacional del Tequila, usually held in late November or early December.

This major event celebrates tequila culture with tastings, concerts, parades, and food stands. The atmosphere is very festive, but it is very crowded, so it is advisable to book your accommodation in advance.

In July, the Fiestas Patronales de Santiago Apóstol offers a more authentic immersion in local life. These festivities combine religious celebrations, music, traditional entertainment, and fireworks, with fewer tourists than during the Tequila Fair.

The Día de los Muertos period, around November 1 and 2, is also a great time to visit Tequila. The town is adorned with altars, decorations, and offerings, creating a cultural and festive atmosphere.

Finally, some iconic distilleries such as José Cuervo and Sauza offer special events and exclusive experiences from time to time, particularly during Mexican holidays and long weekends.

6. Where to stay when visiting Tequila?

Choosing where to stay in Tequila depends mainly on the experience you are looking for. The town is located about 1 to 1.5 hours from Guadalajara, making it very easy to visit Tequila for a day or half-day while staying in Guadalajara, where there is a wider range of hotels that are often more flexible.

6.1 Staying in Tequila

For a truly unique stay in Tequila, Matices Hotel de Barricas is undoubtedly the town’s most iconic hotel. Here, you actually sleep inside a giant tequila barrel, surrounded by the beautiful agave fields of Jalisco.

The hotel also offers tequila tastings and immersive experiences, making it a great option if you want to spend a memorable night in Tequila, even during a short visit.

You can book this unusual hotel here:

5.2 Staying in Guadalajara (and visiting Tequila for the day)

Staying in Guadalajara is an excellent alternative for travelers who prefer a wider choice of accommodation and often more competitive prices. The city offers many hotels for all budgets, as well as a more developed cultural and gastronomic life.

This option is ideal if Tequila is visited as a day trip or as part of a wider itinerary in Mexico, without having to change accommodation several times.

Here are my personal recommendations for the best hotels in Guadalajara:

• Hostal Hospedarte Centro: located in the heart of Guadalajara, 500 meters from the cathedral and the Plaza de Armas. Comfortable and colorful dormitories or private rooms with shared bathrooms, starting at 40 USD per night, breakfast included. Highlights: Free walking tours of the city, friendly staff, lively common areas— this is my choice for a cheap stay in Guadalajara!
• Hotel Dalí Plaza Ejecutivo: Located 100 meters from the Teatro Degollado and the Plaza de la Liberación. Comfortable, modern rooms with private bathrooms and cable TV, starting at 52$ usd per night. Highlights: central location, rooftop terrace, free parking.
• Hotel de Mendoza: Located in a historic building next to the Teatro Degollado and the Rotonda de los Jaliscienses Ilustres. Elegant and spacious rooms with balconies and panoramic views of the city, starting at 80$ usd. Highlights: excellent value for money, outdoor pool, gym, colonial charm, restaurant.
• Casa Habita: Located in a restored 1940s house in the trendy Colonia Americana neighborhood, 2 miles from the historic center. Very elegant and comfortable rooms with terraces and views of the pool, starting at 177$ usd per night, breakfast included. Highlights: outdoor pool, bar, retro atmosphere.
• Boutique Hotel Villa Ganz: located in a beautifully renovated house in Colonia Americana, 2 miles from the historic center. Comfortable and elegant rooms with a fireplace and garden view, starting at 235$ usd per night. Highlights: personalized service, gourmet restaurant, beautiful decor. This is my favorite hotel in Guadalajara for a romantic getaway!

7. Practical tips for a successful visit to Tequila

7.1 Book distilleries and experiences in advance

Most distilleries in Tequila operate on a fixed schedule and have a limited number of places per visit. The most visited distilleries, such as José Cuervo, Sauza, Fortaleza, and La Cofradía, officially recommend booking online in advance, especially on weekends, during Mexican holidays, and during festivals.

Without a reservation, the wait can be long, or some experiences may simply be fully booked. Booking also allows you to choose the language of the tour and the type of experience (classic, tasting, gastronomic, or immersive).

7.2 Heat, altitude, and appropriate clothing

Tequila is located at an altitude of about 3,940 ft. and it can be very hot for much of the year.

I recommend planning your distillery visits for the morning (or early afternoon) and saving the agave fields for early morning or late afternoon, when the sun is less intense.

When it comes to clothing, keep it simple and effective: light clothing, a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen if you’re spending time outdoors. Above all, wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes: you’ll be doing a lot of walking in Tequila, sometimes on cobblestones, and some tours or walks through the agave plantations are on dirt roads.

7.4 Tastings, alcohol, and return transportation

Distilleries emphasize responsible drinking. Tastings are generally supervised, but visiting several distilleries in a row can quickly add up to a lot of alcohol.

If you are driving, limit yourself to one distillery or opt for tours with light tasting.

7.5 Payments, money, and tips

In Tequila, credit cards are widely accepted in distilleries, hotels, and restaurants, but it is advisable to always have some cash in Mexican pesos, especially for small shops, markets, and taxis.

Tips are not officially mandatory in Mexico, but they are customary, both for guides and in restaurants, especially when the service is good.

7.6 Safety and getting around

In my experience, Tequila is a fairly safe destination for travelers, especially in the center, around the main square and the distilleries. During the day, you can easily get around on foot without worrying too much.

As everywhere in Mexico, a little common sense is all you need: stay in busy areas, avoid poorly lit streets late at night, and don’t leave your valuables in plain sight. In the evening, I recommend using official taxis, especially if you are returning after dinner or a tasting.

The most important thing to remember in Tequila is not really insecurity, but alcohol. Tastings come thick and fast, sometimes without you realizing it, and I really advise against driving after a distillery tour.

If you are traveling independently, plan your return journey in advance or designate a sober driver. Organized tours, buses, or the José Cuervo Express train are excellent options for enjoying tastings without stress.

One last detail that people don’t always think about is the heat. It can be quite intense, especially in the middle of the day. Remember to drink water regularly and take breaks; it really changes the experience.

7.7 Where and what to eat in Tequila (for all budgets)

In Tequila, you’ll find options for all budgets, from inexpensive places to more elegant restaurants.

For an authentic experience, head to the Tequila municipal market. I had some excellent quesabirrias at Doña Jose, a tasty and cheap option (large for 140 pesos, small for 40 pesos).

If you prefer a more refined setting, La Cueva de Don Cenobio (inside Casa Sauza) is a great place to discover gourmet Mexican cuisine. La Antigua Casona also offers a pleasant experience in an elegant setting.

Seafood lovers will enjoy Real Marinero, while La Fonda de Cholula, just opposite the José Cuervo distillery, appeals above all for its warm atmosphere and beautiful decor, perfect for a break after a visit.

8. Frequently asked questions about visiting Tequila

How do I get to Tequila from Guadalajara?

There are several ways to get to Tequila from Guadalajara: by car, by bus, on an organized tour, or aboard the famous José Cuervo Express.

A car is the most flexible option, while the train and guided tours are ideal if you don’t want to drive after the tastings.

Which distillery should I choose in Tequila?

The choice depends on the type of experience you are looking for: José Cuervo is ideal for a first visit with many experiences, Sauza offers immersive and fun tours, while Fortaleza is renowned for its more artisanal and authentic approach.

For my part, I started with the Selecto distillery in Amatitán, and it was a wonderful surprise. There, you can clearly see the entire tequila-making process, both artisanal and industrial, across several brands.

I tasted some very good tequilas there, to the point of reconciling myself with this drink—even though, honestly, I wasn’t particularly fond of it before this visit!

I then continued on to Tequila with a visit to José Cuervo, which was completely different in style, more structured and touristy, but clearly a must-see.

Beyond its historical importance, the site is truly beautiful: well-kept patios, sculptures, beautifully displayed spaces, and above all, the large Tequila mural by Carlos Terrés, which traces its history through the ages.

Can you visit Tequila without a car?

Yes, it’s entirely possible, and I’ve done it! Tequila’s town center is very compact, and most distilleries can be reached on foot from the Plaza Principal or by local taxi for those further away. From Guadalajara, simply go to the Estación Vieja de Guadalajara, where buses leave every 20 minutes for Tequila.

Tickets can be purchased directly on site, in cash or by credit card, with no hassle. The journey takes about 1.5 to 2 hours depending on traffic, making it a simple and comfortable option for a day trip.

Can you freely enter the agave fields?

Some agave fields are visible and accessible from the roads or paths around Tequila, particularly towards Amatitán (Route 15) and Fortaleza, where you can walk among the plants without entering private property. However, most of the plantations belong to distilleries and are private.

It is therefore important to respect boundaries and opt for guided tours to explore the fields safely and learn about the jima process.

How much does the José Cuervo Express train cost?

The José Cuervo Express offers several categories of train railcars with varying prices depending on the experience chosen.

The Express package starts at MXN 3,100 (~$190) per person, ideal for enjoying the train and basic tastings.

The Premium Plus category costs around MXN 3,515 (~$216), with comfortable seats, improved on-board service, and additional tastings.

The Diamante costs MXN 4,270 (~$262), offering a complete VIP experience with a small group, exclusive tastings of rare drinks, and special activities.

Finally, the Elite category is available for MXN 4,620 (~$283) per person for an even more exclusive and personalized experience on board.

You can book the José Cuervo Express train directly here!

How many distilleries can you visit in one day?

To fully enjoy the tours and tastings, it is recommended to visit a maximum of one or two distilleries per day. Visiting more than that can become tiring and reduce the quality of the experience.

Tequila or Amatitán: which one to choose?

Tequila and Amatitán are both part of the tequila production region, and the distilleries are spread between the two. Tequila is more touristy and better equipped, while Amatitán is quieter, surrounded by vast agave fields.

In fact, most organized tours visit both. That’s what I did: we started by visiting an agave field and a distillery in Amatitán, before heading to Tequila for some free time in the center and ending the day with a visit to José Cuervo.

The two complement each other very well and can easily be visited on the same day, as they are right next to each other!

Renting a Car in Guadalajara

Renting a car is definitely the best way to explore Guadalajara and maximize your stay!

When it comes to car rentals, I personally always use Booking.com Cars for a few key reasons:

• You can easily compare the rental cars prices between all the agencies: for sure the easiest way to find the best rate!
• Cancellation is often offered free of charge: no need to worry if you change your mind
• Booking Cars offers full insurance coverage at a lower price than the rental companies, so it’s an instant saving with no effort

Just click the green button to find the best rental car deals:

Finding the Best Price for Your Flight Ticket

Guadalajara International Airport hosts numerous international flights from the USA, Europe, and beyond, as well as domestic flights, such as Mexico City (1h30), Cancun (2h45), Tijuana (3h), and Puerto Vallarta (1h).

To get the best deals on flights to Guadalajara and throughout Mexico, use our flight comparison tool, powered by Skyscanner. It’s the most effective way to secure great rates!

You’re traveling in Mexico? These articles will help you!

Discover all my articles about Mexico: All my articles to help you plan your trip to Mexico are listed there.

• TOP 35 Things to Do and Must See Attractions in Mexico – All the best places to discover

• Guadalajara (Jalisco): Top 40 Things To Do and Must-See Attractions
• 1 Day in Guadalajara (Jalisco): Must-See Places + Itinerary
• 2 Days in Guadalajara: The Perfect Itinerary (First Time Visit)
• 3 Days in Guadalajara: An Epic Itinerary
• The 5 best coffee shops in Guadalajara (Colonia Americana)
• Where to eat in Guadalajara: Checklist of the 12 best restaurants
• World Cup 2026 Mexico: Guide, Tickets, Stadiums + Tips

• Ajijic (Lake Chapala): Best Things to Do + Tips
• Tlaquepaque (Guadalajara): 16 things to do and must-see attractions

• Puerto Vallarta: Top 35 Things To Do and Must-See Attractions
• The 17 Best hotels in Puerto Vallarta: My Selection for Every Budget!
• Sayulita: the 15 Best things to discover

• Itinerary: 8-10 days in Mexico – From Mexico City to Oaxaca
• Itinerary: 10 days in Mexico – Mexico City, Chiapas and Yucatan
• Itinerary: 2 weeks in Mexico – Best itinerary to discover the Yucatan Peninsula and Chiapas!
• Itinerary: 3 weeks in Mexico – Mexico City, Puebla, Oaxaca, Chiapas, Campeche, Yucatán and Riviera Maya
• Itinerary: 1 month in Mexico – My Epic 30-31 Days Itinerary from Mexico City to Cancun
• Road trip in Mexico: The best itineraries for 10, 15, 21 days and a month

• Itinerary: 1 week in Yucatan – The Ultimate 6, 7 or 8 days Itinerary
• Itinerary: 10 days in Yucatan – Best Itinerary for 9, 10 or 11 Days in Yucatan
• Itinerary: 2 weeks in Yucatan – Epic Itinerary + All my Best Tips!
• Itinerary: 3 weeks in Yucatan – Best things to do in 20-21 days
• Itinerary: 1 month in Yucatan – Yucatan Peninsula in 29, 30 or 31 days from Cancun
• Road trip in Yucatan: The best itineraries for 7, 10, 15, 21 days and 1 month

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