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Following the successful launch of the Mayan Train last year, which connects the coastal city of Cancun with several natural wonders and historical sites. cities, including colonial-era gems Izamal and Merida, ask about train travel in Mexico seems to be at a record high.
Since then, a large number of new rail projects have been announced, including a cross-country route from Cancun to Oaxaca and a line between the Gulf and the Pacific Ocean that bridges the connectivity gap between both coastal areas.
And that’s just the beginning.
Now all eyes are on the state of Jalisco, which is gearing up to launch one train between Guadalajara and Tequilatwo of the most beautiful cultural destinations:
Historic train route to reconnect two of Mexico’s cultural hotspots
After years of waiting, which brought about modernization and complete renovation of the railway line, the historic Tequila Express, which connects Guadalajara, the capital of the State of Jalisco, with Tequila, one of the most culturally charged small townsis finally operational again.
The news was confirmed by Javier Arroyo Navarro, President of the Chamber of Commerce of Guadalajara (CANACO), who emphasized that the tourism sector is well aware that ‘the most impactful thing for visitors to any destination is experiencing unique experiences‘.
According to Mr Navarro, traveling by train is ‘something unique in itself’, and we don’t know for sure, but the thought of traveling through the picturesque countryside of Jalisco, best known for its UNESCO-protected Agavero Landscapesounds special seductive.
Stretching over 34,658 hectares, it is an inland sea of blue agave, where the plant commonly used in the production of the world-famous tequila has been cultivated since the 16th century.
Even before that, in pre-Columbian civilizations, especially Teuchitlan culture, it had been the most important commodity in the production of fermented drinks and substances. no less than 2000 years.
On either side of the line lies vibrant, monumental Guadalajara and the town of Tequila itself, which shares its name with the region’s distinctive atmosphere:
What to see in Guadalajara
Guadalajara is nothing short of the 8th largest conglomerate in Mexico.
Home to over 1,385,000 residents, it is also one of the country’s most important financial and commercial centers, home to a thriving manufacturing sector.
Yet it should not be so quickly dismissed as ‘another big city’ subordinate to Mexico City: in reality, its historic center is just as large and the concentration of notable, historically relevant sights is just as high, starting with the UNESCO World Heritage Site. -world heritage. Hospicio Cabanas.
It is a former orphanage that now houses a museum and is distinguished by its character one of the oldest complexes of its kind in America.
Other attractions include the monumental Cathedral of Guadalajara, whose construction began in 1561, a Spanish Renaissance marvel with soaring neo-Gothic towers, a neoclassical Teatro Degollado and our personal favorite, San Juan de Dios, the largest covered market in Latin America.
From local souvenirs to affordable clothing to the most delicious, richly filled street tacos you’ve ever tasted, you name it; they will have it.
What to see in Tequila
As for Tequila, this is the opposite of Guadalajara, in that it is much smaller, with a population of about 44,000, and much more picturesque:
Although it has none of the latter’s chaotic traffic and endless urban sprawl, it does share much of its colonial charm..
It was founded by the Spanish at the height of the Age of Discovery, as early as 1530, and houses a gem or two.
The main attraction is the Church of Santiago Apostol, unique in Mexico, with its striking stone facade and beautiful stone portal, flanked by Doric columns and decorated with motifs – add an adjacent pedestrian-friendly square, and you can easily think you’re in Europe.
The colonial mansion Quinta Sauza, built in the early 19th century, is also not to be missed, with its beautiful fountains and lush gardens. For all our tequila lovers, make sure you stop by La Perseverancia distillery, the most traditional in townwho has been making tequila since 1873.
There are numerous picturesque streets all around the city, lined with brightly colored buildings, artisan workshops and souvenir shops selling a variety of agave-based products. If you’re wondering where to find the best cheap food in the city, El Palomar is the place to go.
This informal eatery serves food right opposite the church delicious quesadillas for just $3.40.
More information about the train route
More about the train itself: Jalisco’s Secretariat of Tourism has reported that the relaunch is expected to attract around 1 million tourists to Tequila annually. an increase of 50% year-on-yearand they also encourage people to not only make the day trip from Guadalajara, but also to stay at night.
There are numerous budget-friendly hotels in Tequila, such as Hotel La Rienda Mision Tequillanwhere room rates start from a very reasonable $52, and even five star Capital O Hotel Posada Terrazaa short 12-minute ride to the Tequila Express station, which costs from $104 per night this season.
At this time we do not know what upgrades have been made or what the new journey will look like.
More information is yet to be revealedincluding the inaugural trip, timetables, duration of the trip and most importantly the prices: according to the official websitetickets officially go on sale on September 23, so if you’re one of those train enthusiasts, we’d keep an eye out if we were you.
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
The opinions expressed here are solely those of the author, and not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included in the post.
