Buses
TUR buses (9 pesos) are a convenient way to get to sites farther away from the centro histórico, such as the Zoológico Guadalajara, Tlaquepaque, and Nueva Central. Buses run 6:30am-10pm; TUR buses run slightly later. Be sure to check the line (A, B, C, or D) of your bus. Generally, A and B run almost the same route along the main drags (with the same numbers), and C and D buses have different routes into the residential neighborhoods. Always check with the driver to confirm the bus’s destination. Buses #60 and #62 run the length of Calzada Independencia, from the train station in the south all the way past Plaza de Toros. The wired “Par Vial” bus runs west on Calzada Independencia, then Hidalgo, before turning onto Vallarta, just short of Mateos. Returning eastward, it cruises Hidalgo 3 blocks north of Juárez. Bus #258 from San Felipe, 3 blocks north of Hidalgo, runs from near Plaza Tapatía down Mateos to Plaza del Sol, the nightlife hot spot. Bus #275 runs from Zapopán down to 16 de Septiembre and Revolución, and continues on to Tlaquepaque and Tonalá. Schedule and route information available at the tourist office. Comprehensive schedules on sale at most newsstands for 40 pesos.
Metro
(☎3827 0000). The two Metro lines run smoothly (every 5-10min. 6am-10:30pm, 4.50 pesos) and offer a great alternative to the bus system for anyone tired of breathing exhaust. An excellent map is posted in the stations. Line 1 runs from the northern boundary of the city, Periférico Nte., more or less along Federalismo to Periférico Sur, with a central stop at Federalismo and Juárez. Line 2 runs from Juárez and Alcalde/16 de Septiembre, conveniently passing Mina, to Patria in the east. The Metro is convenient both for locals and tourists, since it passes through the city center and downtown areas on its way out to the suburban residential areas.
Taxi
There are plenty of taxis in the city of Guadalajara. Hotels are happy to arrange an affiliated taxi pick up, which is the recommended method. Street cabs (those hailed off the street) are considered to be safe in Guadalajara, but pose some risk. Always make sure that a taxi license is visible in the cab. Most taxis have working meters inside, but not all drivers want to use them. The fare for a ride should be determined one of two ways. Either insist on the driver turning on the meter, or agree on a fare based on the destination before starting the trip. If the driver is not willing to do either, don’t take the ride. Choose another taxi, as there are plenty available. Before taking your first taxi ride, ask a hotel attendant about what a fare should cost to a certain destination. Not all drivers speak English, and if speaking Spanish is not an option, make sure to carry a map, and know where your destination is located.
Car Rental
Dollar Rent-a-Car, Federalismo Sur 380 (☎3825 5080), at La Paz. Open M-F 9am-7pm and Sa 9am-2pm.
Boda ReAl 