Jalisco, Mexico’s most emblematic region, is the birthplace of many of the country’s cultural offerings, including tequila; the state is rich with the drink’s history and the culture that surrounds it. For tequila fans looking for a fun tour of Jalisco, check out  Viva Tequila Festival’s Mexico Experience Tour, which brings guests on a luxurious tour to five cities to explore Jalisco’s Mexican spirit and provide a deeper understanding of the different regions that cultivate agave.

Tlaquepaque
Tlaquepaque was founded by the indigenous Totonac people, who produced everyday utensils and art objects for the town. The city still continues to be an artisan city known for its art galleries and handcrafts. The city also features an up-tempo culinary scene that makes it the perfect place for tequila lovers. Casa Luna Restaurant is a great spot for lunch; dine in the shaded, open courtyard, a wonderful area to relax and enjoy the cuisine and culture.

Teuchitlán
Another popular stop along the Tequila Route is Teuchitlán, filled with rich history. Not only is it a tequila hot spot, but it’s also home to the most important archaeological zone in western Mexico, Los Guachimontones; this is the major site of the so-called Teuchitlaán tradition, a complex society that existed from as early as 300 BCE until around 900 CE. While in Teuchitlán, make sure to check out Hacienda Labor de Rivera — each of the property’s rooms are individually designed with their own unique character.

Tequila
It’s a no brainer the city of Tequila is on this list. Tequila has been deemed both a “Magical Town” by the ministry of Tourism of Mexico, and a cultural UNESCO World Heritage site. Tequila has an expansive landscape of blue agave, a major ingredient in tequila. Since the 16th century, the citizens have cultivated the plant to produce the spirit and, for at least two millennia, to make fermented drinks such as pulque. While visiting Tequila, stop by the many distilleries to learn about the growth of consumption of tequila in the 19th and 20th centuries. Another popular place is Fonda Cholula, a colonial infrastructure with an elegant, warm and harmonious historic center; it’s a great place to rest and enjoy the experience of Mexican cuisine that surrounds Tequila.

Atotonilco El Alto
Atotonilco means “place of hot waters” in Mexico’s indigenous Náhuatl language; “El Alto,” or “the high one” in Spanish, was later added to honor those who died in the Cristero War. Don Nacho Distillery is a must-do while visiting this city. Don Nacho is one of the most prolific agave-producing companies in the Jalisco Highlands.

Guadalajara
Guadalajara is the heart of Jalisco; it’s the place where all traditions of the vast territory coexist, which gives it a unique urban identity. The city boasts artistic and cultural sites, recognized worldwide. Guadalajara is committed to constantly reinventing itself to provide a bright future. Make sure to check out La Tequila Cocina de Mexico Restaurant, which offers the best of the region’s gastronomic heritage and follows traditional recipes while innovating with a contemporary intention.