If you're in Guadalajara and looking for an authentic taste of Mexico’s rich heritage, a day trip to the town of Tequila is the perfect adventure. Just an hour outside the city, this charming town, nestled among blue agave fields, is the birthplace of the world’s most famous spirit. From exploring historic distilleries to sipping tequila straight from the source, the Tequila Trail offers an unforgettable experience of culture, history, and flavor. We went there to celebrate Saleem’s birthday, which made this day even more enjoyable and noteworthy!

Getting to Tequila

The journey from Guadalajara to Tequila is easy and scenic, making it ideal for a day trip:

By Car: Renting a car allows you to explore at your own pace. The drive takes around an hour, with stunning views of rolling agave fields, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Guided Tours: If you prefer a hassle-free experience, many tour companies offer shuttle services that include transportation, distillery tours, and tastings, making it a convenient option for travelers. We chose this option because we did not want to worry about car rental agreements for the day. We paid around $50 for the entire day.

Exploring the Town of Tequila

Once you arrive, the town’s vibrant atmosphere welcomes you with colorful streets lined with shops, restaurants, and distilleries. There’s plenty to see and do, but the real highlight is visiting the distilleries where the magic happens.

Best Distilleries to Visit

Jose Cuervo La Rojeña
The oldest distillery in Latin America, La Rojeña, is a must-see. This tour walks you through the entire tequila-making process, from the fields to the bottle, and ends with a tasting of their finest tequilas. You can even try Reserva de la Familia, their premium aged tequila, for a deeper flavor experience.
Casa Sauza
Known for its beautiful gardens and traditional methods, Casa Sauza offers a more intimate look at tequila production. You’ll have the chance to visit the agave fields, learn about harvesting from local jimadores, and enjoy a tasting session that includes tips on pairing tequila with food.
Tres Mujeres
This family-owned distillery is known for its traditional production methods, including slow-cooking agave in brick ovens and using copper stills for distillation, which gives their tequila its distinctive, artisanal flavor. Visitors can tour the scenic grounds, learn about the entire tequila-making process from harvesting to bottling, and enjoy tastings in their underground cellars, making Tres Mujeres a hidden gem on the tequila trail.

The Agave Fields

A visit to the agave fields is a must for a deeper understanding of tequila’s roots—literally! Many distillery tours start here, where you’ll learn about the life cycle of the blue agave plant and witness firsthand the work that goes into harvesting these massive plants. The sweeping views of endless agave rows against the backdrop of the Tequila Volcano make this stop a photographer’s dream.

Tequila Tasting 101

No trip to Tequila is complete without savoring the different varieties of the spirit. Most distilleries offer tastings that include:

Blanco: Clear and unaged, with a fresh, bold agave flavor.
Reposado: Aged for 2 to 11 months, with notes of vanilla and caramel from the oak barrels.
Añejo: Aged for over a year, this tequila has a smooth, complex taste with hints of spice, oak, and fruit.

Tasting tequila here is all about the experience. Take your time, enjoy the aroma, and sip slowly to appreciate the layers of flavor. It’s a far cry from the typical tequila shot at a bar—this is all about savoring each sip. If like us you’re not big drinkers, you can just skip this part.

Where to Eat in Tequila

After a day of exploring and sipping, you’ll want to refuel. Fortunately, Tequila has plenty of great options for a delicious Mexican lunch or dinner. We made one stop only, but boy, was it worth it!

Fonda Cholula in Tequila, Jalisco, is a charming, casual restaurant known for its authentic Mexican cuisine and local atmosphere. Offering hearty, traditional dishes like enchiladas, tamales, and carne asada, it's the perfect spot for a relaxed meal after touring the town. The restaurant also serves refreshing cantaritos, a popular tequila-based cocktail made with citrus juice and served in clay cups. With its warm, welcoming vibe and flavorful regional dishes, Fonda Cholula delivers an authentic taste of Jalisco’s culinary heritage. To make it even more special, I asked the Mariachi to sing Saleem a few tunes as a birthday celebration. You can’t beat that!

Other Activities in Tequila

Stroll the Plaza Principal: The heart of Tequila’s town square is full of life. Grab a souvenir, listen to mariachi bands, or simply enjoy the atmosphere of this charming colonial plaza.
Tequila Museum: For a deeper dive into the history of this iconic drink, visit the Museo Nacional del Tequila. It’s small but offers fascinating insights into the origins and cultural significance of tequila.

End Your Day at the Mirador

Wrap up your visit by heading to the Mirador de Tequila. This lookout point offers stunning panoramic views of the town, the surrounding agave fields, and the distant Tequila Volcano. It’s the perfect spot to relax and watch the sunset after a full day of exploration.

Final Tips for the Tequila Trail

Stay Hydrated: With all the tequila tasting, be sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day.
Pace Yourself: Sip, don’t shoot! Tequila tasting is about enjoying the flavors, not racing through them.
Designate a Driver: If you’re driving, it’s best to have a designated driver or hire a private driver to ensure everyone enjoys the tastings safely.

A day trip to Tequila is not just about tequila—it's an immersive experience in Mexican culture, history, and hospitality. Whether you’re a seasoned tequila lover or a curious traveler, this adventure offers a perfect blend of discovery, relaxation, and, of course, a few memorable sips of Mexico’s finest spirit.

Tequila Trail: A Perfect Day Trip from Guadalajara