Nearby places

Planning your time around the conference

The places listed above fall into two rough clusters, and knowing which is which makes it much easier to fit visits around sessions. Expo Guadalajara sits in the commercial district to the west of the historic centre, close to Plaza del Sol and the Minerva area. Teatro Degollado, Hospicio Cabañas, the Museo Regional and Mercado Libertad are all in or beside the Centro Histórico, within walking distance of one another along the pedestrian streets around the cathedral. The Templo Expiatorio lies a short distance west of the centre. The zoo, in the north-east near the Barranca de Huentitán, and the Parque Metropolitano, to the west near Zapopan, are better treated as separate outings.

Getting around

Guadalajara has a light rail and BRT network (Mi Macro), city buses and widely used ride-hailing apps. Taxis are easy to find, but agree the fare or confirm the meter before setting off. Traffic on major avenues such as López Mateos and Mariano Otero can be heavy at rush hour, so allow extra time if you need to be back for an afternoon session. The venue notes cover arrival and access in more detail.

Practical tips

• Check opening days. Many museums in Mexico close on Mondays, and hours can change for holidays or special events. Confirm on each institution's official channels before you go.
• Go early for the centre. Mornings are cooler and quieter for walking between the cathedral, Teatro Degollado and Hospicio Cabañas. The Orozco murals at the Cabañas are worth unhurried time.
• Eat at the market. Mercado Libertad, often called San Juan de Dios, has a large food floor upstairs and is a good place to try local dishes such as birria and tortas ahogadas. Keep valuables secure in crowded aisles.
• Performances. Teatro Degollado hosts concerts, opera and ballet. If you hope to attend, check its programme and buy tickets ahead through official outlets.
• Weather. The rainy season, roughly June to September, often brings afternoon storms, so a light umbrella is useful.

To plan free time around the sessions you most want to attend, compare these options with the conference program. Our guides have more background on the city.