Guadalajara

Second only to Mexico City in size, Guadalajara, capital of the state of Jalisco, has successfully conserved its unique mix of colonial and native Tapatíos influences. Famous for its broad avenues flanked by picturesque parks and fine old buildings notable for their European flair, Guadalajara is a hotbed of traditional Mexican culture, from the mariachi music that seems to emanate everywhere, to its fascinating Charreadas, a type of rodeo that is usually accompanied by festivities such as dancing, singing, and plenty of great food. It's a fun city to explore on foot due to the four large squares that together form the shape of a cross and comprise the old city center. The best of them, Plaza de Armas, is the perfect place to begin a tour and includes such notable buildings as the 17th-century Government Palace (Palacio de Gobierno) and the beautiful Baroque Guadalajara Cathedral (Catedral de Guadalajara), built between 1558 and 1616.