Tequila ranks as the top product consumed by international visitors to Mexico, attracting travelers eager to taste and learn about this iconic drink. Its unique flavor and cultural significance make it a must-try experience for anyone exploring Mexican traditions.

To truly immerse yourself in the enchanting world of tequila, spending at least one day on the “Tequila Route” is essential. This popular tourism route combines history, artisanal traditions, and local culture, giving visitors a full sensory experience of Mexico’s national spirit.

Only five Mexican states are authorized to produce tequila: Jalisco, Guanajuato, Tamaulipas, Michoacán, and Nayarit. Each region contributes its own flavors and styles, but Jalisco remains the heart of tequila production, renowned for its agave fields and historic towns.

Most tequila comes from the Tequila Valley in Jalisco, a picturesque region where vast blue agave fields meet colonial towns. The valley’s climate and soil create ideal conditions for growing agave, making it the world’s leading center for high-quality tequila production.

Jalisco hosts some of the most famous tequila distilleries, with hundreds of facilities scattered across the state. Iconic brands such as Herradura, Cuervo, and Sauza offer tours, tastings, and a glimpse into centuries-old techniques that define this beloved Mexican spirit.

What is the Tequila Route?

The Tequila Route became an official tourist destination in 2006 and has grown in popularity ever since. It invites visitors to explore the rich history, artisanal traditions, and cultural heritage behind Mexico’s most iconic drink, blending learning and leisure in one journey.

This multi-thematic route offers a unique combination of history, culture, and natural beauty. Visitors can experience the deep-rooted Mexican traditions linked to tequila’s evolution, from ancient farming practices to modern distilling techniques, all set in breathtaking landscapes.

Located just 1.5 hours from Guadalajara, Tequila Valley is famous for its scenic beauty, especially during the rainy season or the blue agave bloom in early April. Travelers can enjoy rolling agave fields, colonial towns, and panoramic views of the mountains surrounding the valley.

Tequila Valley also offers attractions year-round.

One highlight is the Otoñada del Valle de Tequila, a vibrant autumn festival celebrating local culture, gastronomy, and, of course, tequila. Visitors can enjoy music, parades, and traditional ceremonies that make the valley a lively destination beyond peak season.

The Tequila Route spans 8 municipalities surrounding the majestic Tequila Volcano:

  • El Arenal
  • Amatitán
  • Tequila
  • Magdalena
  • San Juanito de Escobedo
  • Ahualulco de Mercado
  • Etzatlán
  • Teuchitlán

The first four municipalities – El Arenal, Amatitán, Tequila, and Magdalena – are part of the Agave Landscape. Covering nearly 35,000 hectares of blue agave plantations, this region was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2006 for its cultural and natural significance.

Flanked by mountains and with a dormant volcano at its center, the valley is dotted with distilleries. The small town of Tequila draws the most visitors, offering guided tours, tastings, and a chance to witness the production of Mexico’s iconic spirit firsthand.

Amatitan and Tequila both claim the title of tequila’s birthplace, with historic distilleries and agave fields reinforcing their cultural significance. Visitors can explore each town’s heritage, tasting authentic tequilas and discovering the stories that shaped the legendary drink.

Tequila Trains & Tequila Bus

The fastest and most immersive way to explore Tequila Valley is aboard the Tequila Express train. This scenic ride takes passengers through vast agave fields and stunning landscapes, offering a unique perspective on the countryside where Mexico’s iconic spirit is crafted.

Travelers can choose between two popular tequila trains: the José Cuervo Express, which runs to the town of Tequila, and the Tequila Herradura Express, which travels to Amatitán. Both trains provide guided tours, tastings, and a lively introduction to the region’s heritage.

  • José Cuervo Express: From Guadalajara to Tequila.
  • Tequila Herradura Express: From Guadalajara to Amatitán.

For a similar experience, the Tequila Express bus offers a comfortable journey from Guadalajara to the Sauza Tequila distillery in Tequila. This option is ideal for those seeking flexibility, local insights, and a chance to explore distilleries without relying on a train schedule.

Travelers can also rent a car in Guadalajara. Driving through the Tequila Valley allows visitors to explore hidden towns, stop at lesser-known distilleries, and enjoy the region at their own pace, making it perfect for a personalized tequila adventure.