Planning a Conference Trip to Guadalajara

Guadalajara, the capital of Jalisco and Mexico's second-largest metropolitan area, has long been a natural meeting point for delegates travelling from across the Americas. Its international airport connects directly with major cities in the United States, Canada and Latin America, and the city has a well-developed hotel and convention infrastructure built up around trade fairs, academic congresses and cultural events. This desk gathers practical notes for attendees who want to make the most of a multi-day programme here.

Before you travel

• Check entry requirements early. Visa and passport rules differ by nationality, so confirm them with official government sources well ahead of departure.
• Choose your registration tier carefully. Compare what each option includes, such as sessions, workshops or networking events, on the registration page before committing.
• Book accommodation close to the sessions. Traffic in the metropolitan area can be heavy at peak hours, so staying near the venue saves time each morning.

Getting around the city

Guadalajara has a light rail network, buses and widely used ride-hailing apps, which make moving between the venue, hotels and the historic centre straightforward. Allow extra time for transfers to and from the airport, particularly in the late afternoon.

Beyond the sessions

Evenings are a good chance to explore the cathedral district, the Hospicio Cabañas with its Orozco murals, or nearby Tlaquepaque, known for crafts and ceramics. Jalisco is also the home of mariachi and tequila, and the town of Tequila is a popular day trip for visitors with a free afternoon. For ideas on where to eat and what to see, browse our nearby places and the session overview in the program.

Guadalajara sits at roughly 1,500 metres above sea level, so days are often warm while evenings can be cool. Pack layers, stay hydrated and carry a reusable bottle between sessions.