Tequila Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Tequila with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best things to do, places to visit, and where to stay in Tequila, Mexico.


Introduction to Tequila

Tequila is a small town located in the western part of Mexico, in the state of Jalisco. It is famous for its production of tequila, which is a distilled alcoholic beverage made from the blue agave plant.

Visiting Tequila is an opportunity not just to taste tequila but also to immerse oneself in the rich cultural heritage of this region. The town is surrounded by picturesque hills, fields of blue agave, and dotted with historic landmarks. With so much to see and do, planning your trip in advance can make your visit to Tequila an unforgettable experience.

List of Places to Visit in Tequila

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Jose Cuervo Distillery: Located in the heart of the town, this is the oldest tequila distillery in the world. A guided tour here will take you through the history of tequila production and give you a chance to taste some of the finest tequilas.

  • Museo Nacional del Tequila: Housed in an impressive colonial-style building, this museum takes you on a journey through the history of tequila and the culture of Jalisco state.

  • Santiago Apostol Parish: This church, built in the 17th century, is a fine example of Spanish baroque architecture. Its beautiful facade and ornate interiors make it a must-visit.

Natural Attractions of Tequila: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Volcan de Tequila: This active volcano offers breathtaking views of the region and is a popular spot for hiking enthusiasts.

  • Rio Santiago: The river flows through the town and is a great place for water sports like kayaking and rafting.

  • Santa Rita Hot Springs: Soak in the natural hot springs to unwind after a day of exploring.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Tequila

The surrounding hills are perfect for hiking and biking. Some of the popular routes are:

  • El Cerro del Cuervo: This 5-mile hike to the top of the hill offers stunning panoramic views of Tequila.

  • La Antigua Ruta del Ferrocarril: This abandoned railway track is now a popular trail for mountain bikers, with its winding path and picturesque scenery.

  • El Cerro de Tequila: This short but challenging hike takes you to the top of the volcano for panoramic views of the region.

Best Things to Do in Tequila: Activities and Tours

  • Tequila Tasting Tour: Try different types of tequila and learn about the process of production on a guided tour of one of the distilleries.

  • Tequila Express Train: Board this train for a journey through the scenic countryside, listening to live music, and sipping tequila as you go.

  • Festival Nacional del Tequila: Held every year in late November, this festival celebrates tequila with cultural performances, food stalls, and more.

Week-Long Itinerary for Tequila

Day Activity
Day 1 Arrival and visit to Jose Cuervo Distillery
Day 2 Museo Nacional del Tequila and Santiago Apostol Parish
Day 3 Hiking to El Cerro del Cuervo
Day 4 Tequila Express Train
Day 5 Rafting in Rio Santiago
Day 6 Visit to Volcan de Tequila
Day 7 Relax in Santa Rita Hot Springs

Food and Drink Scene of Tequila

Must-Try Dishes

  • Birria: A spicy meat stew made with goat or beef, served with tortillas.

  • Torta Ahogada: A sandwich filled with meat or carnitas and drowned in a spicy tomato sauce.

  • Tacos al Pastor: Tacos filled with pork cooked on a spit with a pineapple on top.

Local Beverages

  • Tequila: The town’s most famous drink is a must-try.

  • Charanda: A sugarcane liquor that is a popular beverage in Jalisco.

  • Pulque: A traditional fermented drink made from the agave plant.

Where to Stay in Tequila: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Hotel Solar de las Animas: A luxury hotel with a beautiful courtyard, pool, and restaurant.

  • Hotel Boutique La Cofradia: A boutique hotel located on a hill, offering stunning views of the region and a great location near the distilleries.

  • Hostal Hacienda La Labor: A hostel with a rustic ambiance and a great location in the heart of the town.

What to Buy in Tequila: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Tequila: A variety of tequilas are available for purchase at the distilleries.

  • Artisan Crafts: Handcrafted items like pottery, leather goods, and woven baskets.

  • Regional Food: Sweets like cajeta and ate, which are made from different types of fruit.

Local Culture and Customs of Tequila

Tequila has a rich cultural heritage that is deeply tied to the production of tequila. The people of Tequila are friendly and welcoming, and their customs and traditions are deeply rooted in their history.

Best Time to Visit Tequila

The best time to visit Tequila is between October and March, when the weather is mild and dry. However, the town is delightful year-round, and during the Festival Nacional del Tequila, in late November, it is particularly lively and festive.

Do’s and Don’ts of Tequila

Do:

  • Try different types of tequila.

  • Respect the local customs and traditions.

  • Be friendly and open to learning about the culture.

Don’t:

  • Drink and drive.

  • Be disrespectful to the people and their culture.

  • Engage in any illegal activities.

Safety and Health

Safety in Tequila

Tequila is generally safe for tourists, but like any other travel destination, it’s always good to take basic precautions like not flashing money or valuables and staying in well-lit areas at night.

Health in Tequila

It’s important to drink bottled water and avoid street food to prevent any illnesses. If you have any medical concerns, make sure to bring your medicine and speak with your doctor before traveling.

Getting to Tequila: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Tequila

The closest airport to Tequila is Guadalajara International Airport (GDL), which is about 40 miles away.

Bus Stations Near Tequila

The town has a bus station, which connects it to major cities in Mexico. The bus journey from Guadalajara takes around an hour.

Other Options

You can also rent a car or hire a taxi to get to Tequila, but it’s important to keep in mind that local driving customs may be different and a tour operator can be a great option.

How to Get Around in Tequila

Walking is a great way to explore the town, and taxis and buses are available for transportation to nearby attractions.

Where to Go Next from Tequila: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Guadalajara: The capital of Jalisco state, Guadalajara is known for its beautiful colonial architecture, street food, and cultural attractions.

  • Lake Chapala: A lake located about an hour’s drive from Tequila, and is a popular spot for fishing, bird watching, and water sports.

  • Mazamitla: A small town in the mountains of Jalisco state, known for its picturesque landscapes and outdoor activities.

Conclusion

Whether you’re a tequila aficionado or just looking to explore a new region, Tequila has something to offer for everyone. Its rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and delicious food and drink make it a must-visit destination in Mexico. Plan your trip today and get ready for an unforgettable experience.

Tequila landscape Tequila landscape Church of Santiago Apostol, the main church Church of Santiago Apostol, the main church