Guadalajara
Mexico
The birthplace of tequila, mariachi, and Mexican culture! Guadalajara brings passionate football fans, stunning architecture, and authentic Mexican hospitality to World Cup 2026.
Home of Chivas & Mexican Culture
Guadalajara is home to CD Guadalajara (Chivas) - Mexico's most popular club with a policy of only fielding Mexican players. Estadio Akron's unique volcanic design built into the hillside creates an incredible atmosphere. This is where mariachi, tequila, and Mexican traditions were born!
Getting There
By Air
Miguel Hidalgo International (GDL) - Mexico's third busiest airport.
20km south of city center.
From GDL Airport
- • Uber - $10-15 to Centro/Chapultepec
- • Official Taxi - Fixed rates available
- • Airport Bus - To Central de Autobuses
Getting to Estadio Akron
Mi Macro Periferico (Light Rail)
New BRT line connects to stadium area. Runs along the Periferico ring road.
Uber/Taxi
Stadium is in Zapopan, northwest of city center. $10-15 from central Guadalajara.
Official Shuttles
FIFA will operate shuttle services from downtown and major hotels on match days.
Where to Stay
Chapultepec / Americana
Hip neighborhood with bars, restaurants, Art Deco architecture. Young crowd.
From $60/night
Centro Historico
Colonial architecture, cathedral, plazas. Traditional Mexican feel.
From $50/night
Providencia
Upscale neighborhood with shopping, fine dining, international vibe.
From $100/night
Zapopan
Near Estadio Akron. Modern suburb, Basilica of Our Lady of Zapopan.
From $70/night
Must-See Attractions
Tequila Town
Day trip to where tequila is made! Distillery tours, blue agave fields.
Hospicio Cabanas
UNESCO site with Orozco murals. Cultural landmark.
Tlaquepaque
Colonial artisan village with crafts, mariachi, galleries.
Cathedral
Twin towers, neo-gothic landmark in the heart of the city.
Lake Chapala
Mexico's largest lake, scenic villages, day trip.
Mercado San Juan
Traditional market with local food, crafts, atmosphere.
Food & Drink
Jalisco Specialties
- • Birria - Spiced goat/beef stew (THE dish!)
- • Torta ahogada - "Drowned" sandwich in salsa
- • Tequila - Try at the source!
- • Tejuino - Fermented corn drink
- • Jericalla - Guadalajara's dessert
Where to Eat
- • Karne Garibaldi (world record tacos!)
- • La Chata (traditional birria)
- • Birreria Las Nueve Esquinas
- • Mercado Libertad (San Juan de Dios)
- • Chapultepec bar scene
Match Day Tips
- • Visit Tequila before the match - it's only 1 hour away!
- • Try birria - it's THE local dish and perfect fuel for cheering
- • Experience mariachi at Plaza de los Mariachis
- • Mild altitude - Guadalajara is at 5,100ft (1,550m)
- • June is rainy season - afternoon showers possible
- • Wear Chivas red to fit in with local fans!
Cost Guide
Quick Facts
Weather: Warm, 75-85°F (rainy pm)
Currency: Mexican Peso (MXN)
Language: Spanish
Time Zone: CST (UTC-6)
Altitude: 5,100 ft (1,550m)
Estadio Akron
Unique volcanic design stadium, home of Chivas. 49,850 capacity.
View all stadium matches →