Living in Tlaquepaque. One of Mexico’s Most Charming Towns

Tlaquepaque is one of Mexico’s most charming towns. Right in the heart of Jalisco, Mexico, this vibrant town is celebrated for its rich history, cultural significance, and artisanal heritage.

Tlaquepaque is a charming town in the heart of Jalisco, Mexico.

As you explore the colorful streets, you’ll discover a place where traditional Mexican culture flourishes in the shadow of Guadalajara, Mexico’s second-largest city. Tlaquepaque has evolved from a small village to a beloved tourist destination renowned for its beautiful ceramics, glasswork, and wrought iron.

Walking through the cobbled streets of Tlaquepaque, you are likely to hear the sounds of mariachi music, a reminder that you’re in the state where the genre was born.

The town’s name, often shortened to ‘Tlaque,’ ensures a unique encounter with Mexico’s artistic soul, unique galleries, boutique shops, and markets brimming with locally crafted goods. Whether you’re seeking exquisite pieces of pottery or a taste of the local cuisine, Tlaquepaque offers an experience that embodies the spirit of Mexico.

Many people from Guadalajara spend their weekend in Tlaquepaque

The town’s El Parián, a large plaza surrounded by columns and arches, is the perfect place for you to soak up the local atmosphere. El Parián buzzes with activity, surrounded by restaurants and bars where you can enjoy authentic dishes and watch folkloric dances. As an essential part of your visit, make sure to venture into the various museums and churches that capture the essence of Tlaquepaque’s historical and artistic contributions to the region.

YouTube video
Learn more about living in Tlaquepaque with our video

In this video, we cover:

  • Where is Tlaquepaque?
  • What is the weather?
  • How much are rentals?
  • How much are utilities?
  • What is the water situation currently?
  • How to get around without a car?
  • What shopping options do you have for groceries?
  • Where to go for medical care in Tlaquepaque?
  • Things to do in Tlaquepaque
  • Some typical foods of the area
  • and More!

Culture and Tourism

Tlaquepaque plays a vibrant role in preserving the region’s cultural heritage and welcomes you to explore its artisanal crafts, dynamic culinary scene, and captivating festivals.

Tlaquepaque's Central Kiosk is a great place to sit and people watch
Tlaquepaque’s Central Kiosk is a great place to sit and people watch

Artisanal Crafts

Tlaquepaque is renowned for its high-quality craftsmanship and traditional artistry. Here, you’ll find an array of ceramics, pottery, and blown glass, all created by local artisans with techniques passed down through generations.

  • Ceramics: Look for the distinctive barro brunido and canelo pottery.
  • Glass: Marvel at the intricate designs of hand-blown glassware.
Tlaquepaque is known for its pottery
Tlaquepaque is known for its pottery

Culinary Scene

Embrace Tlaquepaque’s diverse culinary offerings, where a mix of indigenous and Spanish influences come to life in its dishes.

  • Birria: A savory goat stew traditionally served at celebrations.
  • Ponche: A local punch often enjoyed during the Christmas season.
  • Tejuino: A refreshing drink made out of corn

Location and Climate

Tlaquepaque is not far from the huge city of Guadalajara. This proximity to one of Mexico’s major cities enhances its appeal, offering the tranquility of a small town with the amenities of a large city within easy reach. Many people like to live in Tlaque and regularly go to Guadalajara for shopping, medical care, and entertainment.

The weather in Tlaquepaque is generally mild, characterized by a warm climate most of the year. Summers are balmy and hot, and winters are mild, rarely seeing extreme temperatures. This pleasant weather allows you to enjoy outdoor activities and the vibrant street life that Tlaquepaque is known for throughout the year.

Cost of Living

One of the most compelling reasons to consider Tlaquepaque as your new home is the cost of living, which is significantly lower than many US cities while offering a high quality of life. Rentals vary, but you can find charming accommodations without breaking the bank. A decent one-bedroom apartment in a good location typically ranges from $500 to $600 USD per month.

a decent sized apartment in Tlaquepaque rents for $500-$600 dollars a month
a decent sized apartment in Tlaquepaque rents for $500-$600 dollars a month

However, you can also find larger homes in more upscale neighborhoods going for $1,000 USD a month and more.

Utilities are also reasonably priced. For a standard household, expect to pay between $20 and $50 USD monthly for electricity, gas, and internet, depending on usage and service selections.

Water Supply and Transportation

The current drought throughout Mexico has also left its mark in Tlaquepaque. And even though there isn’t the water scarcity in Jalisco that there is in Mexico City, we still think you should know some tips for water management in Mexico.

Also, it’s important to remember that water in Tlaquepaque is not potable. Therefore, you will have to buy bottled water. But don’t worry; there are dozens of companies that offer home deliveries. Many households buy water jugs, also known as Garrafones, which are 20-gallon jugs of water.

The town is well-connected by public transport, and many residents find owning a car unnecessary. Buses and taxis are plentiful, and there is also the option of using ride-sharing apps for convenience.

Shopping

Shopping options in Tlaquepaque cater to both traditional tastes and modern needs. From local markets offering fresh produce and artisan goods to modern shopping centers, the town provides a diverse shopping experience. We recommend shopping locally at mercados whenever possible. However, if you need to shop at a regular grocery store, you have access to Soriana, Bodega Aurrera, and the like.

If you want more specialty foods, we recommend traveling to Guadalakara for larger grocery trips or for more specialized dietary needs. Guadalajara is one of Mexico’s largest cities, so you can find it all. And it’s only 20-30 minutes away, depending on traffic.

Leisure and Cuisine

Tlaquepaque is vibrant with cultural activities and things to do. The town is famous for its arts and crafts, with numerous galleries and workshops that showcase traditional Mexican crafts. Additionally, the social calendar is filled with festivals and events that celebrate local traditions and arts.

When it comes to cuisine, Tlaquepaque offers an array of delightful dishes that reflect the richness of Mexican culinary traditions. Typical foods include birria, a spicy meat stew, and tequila, which is produced in the surrounding region. And Jalisco, in general, is known to have some of the best food in all of Mexico.

Mariana Lange

Mariana Lima-Lange was born in Mexico and moved to the U.S. when she was a child. Every year she would split her time between life in the U.S. and Mexico- which gave her a deep understanding about Mexican culture, lifestyle, and traditions. She is fluent in both Spanish and English. Since 2019, our blog posts, resources, videos, and COMPLETE Mexico Relocation Online Guide have helped thousands move to Mexico the right way!

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