Day Trips from Guadalajara Between World Cup 2026 Matches
Between Guadalajara's World Cup 2026 matches, the town of Tequila is about 60 km (1 hour) away and Lake Chapala roughly 50 km (1 hour) south. Here are the best day trips and how to reach each one.
Published June 17, 2026·5 min read
TL;DR:Guadalajara's four matches run June 11–26, leaving plenty of free days. The town of Tequila is about 60 km (1 hour) away, and Lake Chapala is roughly 50 km (1 hour) south. Both are easy day trips, while Tlaquepaque stays inside the metro for tight days.
Tequila: the headline day trip
The Pueblo Mágico of Tequilasits about 60 km from the city, around an hour by car or organized tour. Beyond distillery tours and the surrounding UNESCO-listed agave landscape, it's a relaxed half-day that pairs well with a late kickoff. Book distillery slots ahead during the tournament — demand spikes with the fan crowd.
Day trips compared
| Destination | Distance | Drive time | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tequila | ~60 km | ~1 hour | Distillery tours, agave fields |
| Lake Chapala / Ajijic | ~50 km | ~1 hour | Lakefront, galleries, relaxed pace |
| Tlaquepaque | In metro | 15–30 min | Ceramics, no intercity bus needed |
For Lake Chapala, buses leave frequently from Guadalajara's central terminal at about MXN 45 (under US$3) and take roughly 50 minutes; Ajijic is another 15 minutes west of Chapala town. Pick a destination by your kickoff time — Tlaquepaque for early matches, Tequila or Chapala on a fully free day.
Stay connected outside the city
Out in agave country or on the lakeshore, you'll lean on data for maps, tour bookings, and a rideshare back. A travel North America eSIMon Mexico's strongest network keeps you covered beyond Wi-Fi range. Compare the options:
| Option | Cost | Setup time | Coverage |
|---|---|---|---|
| eSIM | Low (US$3–25) | ~5 min (pre-install on Wi-Fi) | Excellent (local carrier) |
| Carrier roaming | High ($10–15/day) | Instant (already enabled) | Medium (partner-dependent) |
| Pocket Wi-Fi | Medium | Airport pickup / rental | Good (extra device to charge) |
FAQ
QHow far is Tequila town from Guadalajara?
AAbout 60 km — roughly a 1-hour drive. It's a designated Pueblo Mágico famous for agave fields and distillery tours, ideal between matches.
QCan I visit Lake Chapala as a day trip?
AYes — it's about 50 km (1 hour) south of Guadalajara. Ajijic is 10 km west of Chapala, around 15 minutes more, and both make a relaxed half- or full-day trip.
QWhat's the best quick trip without leaving the metro area?
ATlaquepaque, famous for artisan ceramics and galleries. It sits inside the Guadalajara metro, so no intercity bus is needed; neighboring Tonalá adds big craft markets.
QHow do I get to these towns from Guadalajara?
ADrive, rideshare, or take intercity buses. Buses to the Chapala area leave frequently from the central terminal at around MXN 45 and take about 50 minutes.
Bottom line
Guadalajara's match gaps are perfect for Tequila, Lake Chapala, or a quick Tlaquepaque stroll — just keep a North America eSIM running for maps and rides. Back in town, line up your match schedule and in-city sightseeing.
Sources: Mexico Travel & Leisure — Day trips from Guadalajara, Lakeside Guide — Tequila day trip, GetYourGuide — Lake Chapala & Ajijic.