Tequila, the town that gave the spirit its name, is about 60 km northwest of Guadalajara, and it is easy to visit without joining a group. This guide covers how to get there by bus, Uber or train, which distilleries you can visit on arrival and what the day costs. If you would rather someone handle everything, read our guide to the Tequila tour with cantaritos instead.
How long does it take to get from Guadalajara to Tequila?
By car it takes 50 to 70 minutes depending on traffic, via the Guadalajara–Tepic highway (toll or free road). Buses from the Nueva Central Camionera take about 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes and leave every 30 to 60 minutes.
| Option | Cost per person (one way) | Travel time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bus from Nueva Central Camionera | $80 – 100 MXN | 1 h 15 – 1 h 30 | Departures every 30 to 60 minutes |
| Uber or own car | $350 – 450 MXN | 50 – 70 min | Lets you stop at the agave fields |
| Guided day tour | $600 – 1,400 MXN | Full day | Transport and tastings included |
| Jose Cuervo Express train | From $800 MXN | Full day | Weekends only; book ahead |
Your options in detail
- Bus: the cheapest and a reliable choice. Buy your ticket at the Nueva Central Camionera; services to Tequila leave regularly through the day.
- Uber or your own car: the most comfortable, and you can pull over at the agave fields on the way. Do not drive back if you have been tasting.
- Jose Cuervo Express: a themed train from Guadalajara’s railway station on weekends, from about $800 MXN for the ride up to around $2,500 MXN for premium packages with food, music and tastings.
Distilleries you can visit
La Rojeña (Jose Cuervo)
In the center of town and one of the oldest working distilleries in the Americas. Tours cover the historic facilities and the production process and end with a tasting. Expect $250 to $500 MXN depending on the package; booking online is recommended on weekends.
Casa Sauza
Also in town, a short walk from the main square, with tours that include the agave garden and a tasting. A good option for groups. Around $200 to $400 MXN.
Casa Herradura
In Amatitán, about 15 minutes before Tequila on the same road, so it suits those traveling by car or Uber. Its hacienda tour is longer, around two and a half hours, and focused on traditional production. Roughly $350 to $700 MXN.
Small-batch producers
Boutique distilleries such as Fortaleza are legendary among tequila fans. Tours are more intimate and some require advance booking, so check before you go. Expect $400 to $900 MXN.
What else to do in town
- National Tequila Museum (MUNAT): the history of agave and the industry, with a small entry fee.
- Municipal market: carne en su jugo, birria and local crafts.
- The historic center: cobbled streets and the main square, all walkable in two to three hours.
Tips for going on your own
- Go on a weekday if you can; weekends are crowded.
- Carry cash, since smaller distilleries and stalls may not take cards.
- Leave time for the distillery tours; the town itself takes two to three hours to see.
- Buy a bottle at the distillery, often at better prices than in the city.
How much does a day in Tequila cost?
- Budget (bus, one distillery, a market lunch): $400 to $600 MXN per person.
- Mid-range (Uber or a guided tour, two distilleries, a sit-down lunch): $800 to $1,200 MXN per person.
- Premium (Jose Cuervo Express with everything included): $2,000 to $2,800 MXN per person.
Base yourself in Mexicaltzingo, 60 km from Tequila and 10 minutes from downtown.
See rooms at Nora