Mexico’s second-largest city, Guadalajara, has a reputation as Mexico’s Silicon Valley — but there are plenty of non-technical aspects to enjoy, from historic structures to traditional mariachi music. Not-to-miss areas include the city center, home to the Metropolitan Cathedral and an exhilarating blend of Neoclassical, Baroque and Gothic architectural styles. Beautiful plazas scattered throughout this part of the city include Plaza Guadalajara, Plaza de la Liberacion, Plaza de Armas and Rotonda de los Jaliscienses Illustres. Possibly the best is Plaza de los Mariachis, surrounded by stately historic mansions. Here, you can nibble delicious local favorites including birria and pozole accompanied by tequila and lively mariachi music. You can also visit the Hospicio Cabañas, one of the oldest and most expansive hospital complexes in all of the Americas, designed by Manuel Tolso. The hospital buildings include murals by artist Jose Clemente Orozco.

Other noteworthy places include the Basilica of Zapopan in city center, adorned with bronze sculptures and carved façades; a Carrara marble altar; dome-shaped towers and elaborate ciborium harboring a carving of the Virgin Mary. You can also visit the Belén Cemetery, regarded as the pinnacle of funerary architecture created during the 19^th century. Tours relate fantastic tales of bleeding trees and persistent ghosts. Plan a stroll through the artisan center of Tlaquepaque, known for its crafts. Here, winding streets and narrow alleyways lead past gardens and shops, and you can wander through galleries and workshops to watch as skilled craftspeople create ceramics and blown glass. Be sure to plan a break to relax in El Parian plaza, where you can savor a local snack and unwind while musicians fill the air with live music.