Tonalá and Tlaquepaque Tour: Private Mexican Pottery Experience
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Tonalá and Tlaquepaque Tour: Private Mexican Pottery Experience

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8h
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About this experience

Enjoy a unique cultural experience dedicated to the art and history of the region. Tour the pottery towns of Tonalá and Tlaquepaque with a local expert.

Meet the pottery artisans and their families in their workshops. Create a clay craft with your own hands. Become a potter for a day.

Explore the colonial buildings, squares, markets, temples, art galleries, and local craft workshops while learning about the ancestral legacy of Jalisco.

Your local host will share history, traditions, and cuisine in a social, friendly, and fun atmosphere. This tour is designed for art lovers or those seeking an authentic, local, personalized experience.

Benefits:
• Expert local guide.
• Visit two pottery workshops.
• Private tour for you and your companions.
• Private round-trip transport.

Available options

Tonalá and Tlaquepaque Tour: Private Mexican Pottery Experience

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation
Visit two Pottery Workshops
Purified water
Soda or mineral water
Knowledgeable Local Guide
Hotel Pickup and Dropoff

Detailed itinerary

1

Visit the workshop of one of the most recognized artisans of Jalisco.

2

Appreciate the architecture of the Palacio Municipal (Town Hall) as well as a mural inside dedicated to the history of Tonalá. Subject to availability according to the authorities.

3

Tour the largest craft market in Guadalajara (Only available on Thursday and Sunday)

4

Local market where you can find greengrocers, butchers, and local food stalls selling dishes such as birria, menudo, chilaquiles, tortas, and tacos.

5

Construction began in the late 16th and early 17th centuries and was completed in the second half of the 18th century, resulting in the building displaying a variety of architectural styles.

There are parts of the Neoclassical style, some Baroque, and also Neocolonial, although it must be acknowledged that the overall structure is cohesive.

The interior is harmonious, still in the Neoclassical style; its floor plan is three naves with two rows of Tuscan columns crowned with 21 groin vaults. The current altarpiece was designed in 1954 by the architect and priest Pedro Castellanos.

6

Make your ceramic piece with the help of a local artisan who is the fourth generation of artisans in her family.

The workshop belongs to Eva, Conny, and Pilar Núñez, three artisans who specialize in modeling clay figures and busts.

7

Stroll through the historic center of Tlaquepaque. You will appreciate the colonial architecture, squares, churches, museums, monuments, art galleries, and local cuisine. Learn the history and traditions directly from your local guide.

8

Jardín Hidalgo is the main square of Tlaquepaque, in the center is a "Kiosko" or gazebo., and around it are the two main churches (San Pedro and Santuario), street food, and local crafts.

9

Visit the largest "Cantina" in México and enjoy a typical cocktail (not included) inside this beautiful colonial building.

10

The parish of San Pedro began construction in 1670, but due to numerous financing issues, its construction wasn't completed until 1813, taking over a hundred years to complete. It was dedicated to the patron saint of Tlaquepaque. It is made of gray quarry stone. Its architecture is a blend of Baroque, Roman, and Byzantine styles.

11

Its construction began in 1741 at the request of a judge named José Antonio Caballero.

During its construction, it encountered problems due to a lack of funding and was suspended for a time during the 19th century, before being completed in 1878.

Its architecture is a blend of Baroque, Neoclassical, and Neo-Gothic styles.

12

Tour the regional ceramics museum with your guide, an old 19th-century mansion converted into a museum where the most essential pottery pieces of Jalisco are displayed. You can also appreciate the representation of a Mexican kitchen 200 years ago (Subject to availability)

13

Appreciate the gallery of one of the most recognized plastic artists in Mexico.

14

Visit the only store that holds the Guinness World Record for the largest number of bottles of tequila for sale (more than two thousand). You can also buy typical sweets from the region.

15

The route ends at the art plaza where the giant Tlaquepaque letters are located. You'll also find craft shops and bars where you can enjoy a drink before returning to your hotel with your guide.

What's not included

Lunch

Available languages

Guide guide
EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.8
13 reviews
5★
12
4★
0
3★
1
2★
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1★
0
Tripadvisor 4.8
18 reviews
5★
17
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
1

Important information

Wheelchair accessible
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Guadalajara

Guadalajara, the vibrant capital of Jalisco, is a city rich in history, culture, and traditions. Known as the birthplace of mariachi music and tequila, it offers a blend of colonial architecture, modern attractions, and a lively arts scene. The city's warm hospitality and diverse culinary offerings make it a must-visit destination in Mexico.

Top Attractions

Hospicio Cabañas

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this 18th-century complex houses a museum and stunning frescoes by José Clemente Orozco.

Historical 1-2 hours Moderate

Guadalajara Cathedral

This iconic cathedral is a must-visit for its stunning architecture and historical significance.

Religious 30 minutes to 1 hour Free

Instituto Cultural Cabañas

This cultural center hosts various exhibitions, performances, and events throughout the year.

Cultural 1-2 hours Moderate

Must-Try Local Dishes

Birria

A spicy stew made with goat or beef, traditionally served with tortillas and consommé.

Main Course Contains meat

Tortas Ahogadas

A sandwich drowned in a spicy tomato sauce, typically made with pork.

Main Course Contains meat

Tejuino

A fermented corn drink, often served with lime and chili powder.

Drink Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Hiking Zip-lining Spa treatments Boating Museum visits Art galleries Fishing Skiing (in nearby areas)

Best Time to Visit

November to April

This is the best time to visit Guadalajara, with pleasant weather and minimal rainfall. It's ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the city's attractions.

15°C to 28°C 59°F to 82°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: Spanish
  • Widely spoken: English (limited)
  • English: Limited

Currency

Mexican Peso (MXN)

Time Zone

CST (UTC -6)

Electricity

127VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe with exercise caution

Guadalajara is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime can occur. Exercise caution in crowded areas and at night.

Important Precautions:
  • • Keep valuables secure
  • • Use official taxis or app-based services
  • • Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas

Getting there

By air
  • Don Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla International Airport • 16 km (10 miles) from city center
By bus

Central de Autobuses de Guadalajara (CAEG)

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system is the most extensive public transport option in Guadalajara, with routes covering the entire city.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Didi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Centro Histórico Zapopan Chapalita

Day trips

Tlaquepaque
10 km (6 miles) • Half day

A charming town known for its artisan shops, galleries, and traditional restaurants.

Tequila
60 km (37 miles) • Full day

The birthplace of tequila, offering distillery tours, agave fields, and historic sites.

Lake Chapala
50 km (31 miles) • Full day

Mexico's largest freshwater lake, offering boating, fishing, and scenic views.

Festivals

Feria Internacional del Libro (FIL) • November Festival de Maríachi y Charro • September Día de los Muertos • November 1-2

Pro tips

  • Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to enhance your experience and interact with locals.
  • Visit local markets for authentic souvenirs and culinary experiences.
  • Explore the city's neighborhoods to discover hidden gems and local culture.
  • Try traditional Jalisco dishes like birria and tortas ahogadas.
  • Attend a mariachi performance for an authentic cultural experience.
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 18-59
1
Infants
Age 4-12
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 14
  • Adult required for booking
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Free cancellation available
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