Tequila tour visiting a local brewery

An Honest Look at the Guadalajara Tequila and Brewery Tour

Getting a taste of Mexico’s famous tequila and craft beers all in one day sounds like a dream, and this tour promises just that. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the detailed itinerary and honest reviews suggest it offers a genuine glimpse into the local spirit scene, paired with cultural highlights.

What really stands out are the opportunity to visit Casa José Cuervo—the most iconic tequila distillery—explore a local brewery with innovative beers, and enjoy a well-rounded day from historic town streets to tasting sessions. The flexible pickup service adds convenience, and the inclusion of both tequila and beer tastings means you get a full-flavored experience.

That said, a potential downside could be the 6-hour duration, which might feel a bit rushed if you’re a slow explorer or like to linger longer at each stop. Still, this tour appears ideal for those curious about Mexico’s beverage culture, history buffs, and anyone wanting an authentic, value-packed day out in Guadalajara.

Good To Know

• Authentic Experience: Visit both a historic tequila factory and a local brewery offering unique flavors.
• Cultural Highlights: Explore Plaza Principal Tequila and learn about the town’s history.
• Inclusive Tastings: Enjoy tequila and locally brewed beers included in the price.
• Convenience: Pickup and transportation are provided, simplifying logistics.
• Time-efficient: The 6-hour format packs in several stops that are rich in tradition.
• Perfect for: Visitors eager to understand Mexico’s beverage heritage and culture in a relaxed setting.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point and First Stop: Plaza Principal Tequila Jalisco

The tour kicks off in Guadalajara’s historic town of Tequila, a place founded in 1500 that exudes old-world charm. The first stop provides an excellent introduction to the region’s culture, cuisine, and history. The town’s cobbled streets and vibrant market are perfect for wandering, and the chance to try characteristic Mexican dishes — think tacos, quesadillas, and local snacks — adds flavor to the experience.

One reviewer mentioned that this part of the tour offers “an exceptional afternoon” full of local sights and tastes, highlighting the town’s authenticity. The Juan Beckman museum visit adds a layer of historical insight that enriches the understanding of how tequila became Mexico’s national drink.

La Venta del Astillero: Discovering Local Brewing Innovation

Next, the group heads to the Fortuna brewery at La Venta del Astillero, a highlight for beer lovers. This stop lasts around 45 minutes, giving enough time to sample and appreciate the brewery’s wide variety of flavors, influenced heavily by the land of tequila itself.

Reviewers appreciate the uniqueness of Fortuna’s beers, noting that they develop products influenced by local ingredients and brewing traditions. One shared that “you find a product influenced by the land of tequila, with processes developed by local brewers, leading to beers of their own kind.” This gives visitors a chance to taste something different from mainstream beers and learn about the local craft beer scene.

Fábrica La Rojena: The Heart of Tequila Production

The third stop is at Fábrica La Rojena, an historic site that has been producing tequila for over 200 years. Here, the tour delves into the tequila-making process, explaining traditional methods and the evolution of production.

The fact that you can learn about the tequila process in a setting that has maintained its history over centuries makes this a standout experience. Visitors might find the guided explanations illuminating, especially since the process is still maintained with care. Many reviews mention appreciating the in-depth look, with one noting: “In this place, you learn about the tequila process that they have maintained for over 200 years.”

The tour includes a tasting, so you’ll get to sample freshly made tequila directly from the source—an experience that often becomes a highlight for drinkers and casual spectators alike.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The overall value of this tour hinges on its inclusions. The price of $129 per person covers transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, a full day of sightseeing, and tastings of both tequila and local beers. This makes it a reasonably priced experience considering the multiple stops and in-depth visits.

You won’t find brunch included, so it’s wise to arrive hungry or plan to grab some snacks during your free time in the town. The flexibility of a mobile ticket and pickup makes logistics easier, especially for travelers unfamiliar with public transportation in Guadalajara.

The Experience Provider

Operated by Estacion Turistica GDL, the tour is designed to accommodate up to 19 travelers, offering a more intimate group setting without feeling overcrowded. Confirmations are instant, and cancellations up to 24 hours in advance are fully refundable—which adds a layer of reassurance for spontaneous travelers.

What To Expect on the Day

The tour begins at 10:00 am from the designated meeting point in Guadalajara, making it a convenient morning outing. The day flows smoothly from historical town exploration to tasting sessions, with enough time at each stop to absorb the local flavor and ask questions.

Travelers can expect a comfortable ride, with plenty of opportunities to learn about both tequila and beer production. The stops are well-paced, and the inclusion of free tastings at each location ensures you’ll leave with a decent amount of samples—perfect for sharing or savoring.

Authenticity and Learning

Guests have appreciated the chance to see how tequila is produced, not just taste it. The visit to La Rojena is especially appreciated for its historical significance, providing context for how tequila became a staple in Mexican culture.

At Fortuna brewery, the focus on local ingredients and innovative brewing processes adds a modern twist to the traditional theme, proving that beer in Mexico is evolving just like tequila.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a balanced mix of culture, history, and tasting. If you’re curious about Mexico’s famous spirits and enjoy sampling local beverages, this tour offers a rundown. It’s also great for those who prefer a small-group environment with expert guides sharing insights along the way.

However, if you’re looking for a very relaxed, lengthy experience with more free time at each stop, this might feel a bit compact. Still, for a value-packed 6 hours, it’s hard to beat.

Final Thoughts

This Guadalajara-based tour offers an authentic dive into the world of Mexican spirits through its combination of tequila history, local craft beers, and cultural exploration. The inclusion of visits to both a historic distillery and a creative brewery make it stand out, especially for those keen to understand the local beverage scene.

The well-organized itinerary, friendly guides, and inclusive tastings make this a solid choice for curious travelers who love learning through tasting and sightseeing. It’s a good pick for anyone wanting to see a different side of Guadalajara beyond the usual tourist spots.

If you’re after a tasteful, educational, and flavorful experience, this tour provides excellent value and memorable moments in just half a day.

FAQs

What is the minimum age to participate?
The minimum age to consume alcohol on this tour is 18 years old, so travelers under that age can still enjoy the sights but won’t partake in tastings.

Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, an air-conditioned vehicle is provided for pickup and transport between stops, making the day hassle-free.

What should I bring?
You might want to bring comfortable footwear for walking around town and the factory, some cash or card for extras, and an appetite for tasting.

Is the tour suitable for non-drinkers?
Definitely. Even if you don’t indulge in alcohol, you’ll enjoy learning about the production process and exploring the charming town of Tequila.

What’s the cancellation policy?
You can cancel the booking free of charge up to 24 hours before the scheduled start. Cancellations less than 24 hours prior are non-refundable.

How long is each stop?
Stops vary from about 45 to 50 minutes, giving enough time to explore, ask questions, and enjoy tastings without feeling rushed.

Whether you’re a spirits enthusiast or a history lover, this tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into Mexico’s beloved tequila and beer culture, all wrapped up in a manageable, fun-filled day.