Arcos de Zapopan Arco de Ingreso
An iconic archway marking Zapopan's entrance, surrounded by a vibrant mix of food, history, and local charm.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, relaxed exploration
Arcos de Zapopan Arco de Ingreso
Best Time
Fewer crowds, relaxed exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An iconic archway marking Zapopan's entrance, surrounded by a vibrant mix of food, history, and local charm.
"Super fun area ....you have the Basilica and lots of restaurants and shops ....keep your eyes open for the ZAPOPAN letters to take pictures in front of !"
📸 Snap Photos at the ZAPOPAN Letters
Look out for the large 'ZAPOPAN' letters for fun photo opportunities!
🌮 Taste Local Flavors
Don't miss the street food! Try Sinaloa-style tacos and unique malteadas.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Grand Archway
Main entrance to Zapopan
An iconic landmark, the Arcos de Zapopan serve as a grand entrance, perfect for photos and soaking in the local atmosphere.
Basilica of Our Lady of Zapopan
Adjacent to the Arcos
A significant religious site, the Basilica is a must-see, offering a glimpse into the area's rich history and culture.
Local Food Stalls & Mercado
Around the Arcos and Basilica
Explore diverse food options, from street tacos to sweet treats like metallic malteadas.
Holiday Decorations
Arcos and Plaza Caudillos
During festive seasons, the Arcos are beautifully adorned with lights and decorations, creating a magical ambiance.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Best Time to Visit for Fewer Crowds
Navigating to the Arcos
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Snap Photos at the ZAPOPAN Letters
Look out for the large 'ZAPOPAN' letters for fun photo opportunities!
🌮 Taste Local Flavors
Don't miss the street food! Try Sinaloa-style tacos and unique malteadas.
🚶♀️ Stroll and Explore
Enjoy a walk around the area, taking in the sights and sounds.
🎄 Visit During Festive Seasons
The Arcos are especially charming with holiday decorations.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Snap Photos at the ZAPOPAN Letters
Look out for the large 'ZAPOPAN' letters for fun photo opportunities!
🌮 Taste Local Flavors
Don't miss the street food! Try Sinaloa-style tacos and unique malteadas.
🚶♀️ Stroll and Explore
Enjoy a walk around the area, taking in the sights and sounds.
🎄 Visit During Festive Seasons
The Arcos are especially charming with holiday decorations.
🚆 Easy Public Transport
The L3 train is a convenient way to reach the Arcos.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Arcos de Zapopan to be a nice landmark with a pleasant atmosphere, especially when combined with a visit to the nearby Basilica and market. It's praised as a great spot for a walk, to enjoy diverse food options, and for its festive holiday decorations. While not a major tourist destination on its own, it's considered a worthwhile quick trip if you're in the vicinity.
"The Arcos here are quite nice to look at as well as the walkway leading to the nearby Basilica. For the holidays they placed some nice decorations, and there were many different stands to grab a bite or to shop for some small souvenirs. It's not much, but worth a quick trip if you're in the area."
Gino Rincon
"Super fun area ....you have the Basilica and lots of restaurants and shops ....keep your eyes open for the ZAPOPAN letters to take pictures in front of !"
Rich Garcia
"Great place to walk, eat, and drink. Mercado nearby has many things to offer. It was very easy to get there via l3 train."
Kambiz Motamedi
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Arcos de Zapopan are easily accessible. Many visitors recommend using the L3 train, which provides a convenient and straightforward route to the area.
You can also find local buses and taxis that service the vicinity.While specific parking details can vary, there are typically options available in the vicinity, especially if you plan to visit the nearby market or Basilica. It's advisable to look for designated parking areas to avoid any issues.
Yes, ride-sharing services like Uber and Didi are commonly used in Guadalajara and Zapopan, making them a convenient option to reach the Arcos de Zapopan directly.
From the Guadalajara city center, taking the L3 metro line is a highly recommended and efficient method to reach the Arcos de Zapopan.
The most prominent landmark is the Arcos de Zapopan itself, a large, distinctive archway that marks the entrance. You'll also see the Basilica of Our Lady of Zapopan nearby.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, viewing the Arcos de Zapopan from the outside is free and open to the public. You can admire the architecture and take photos without any admission fee.
The Arcos are a public landmark and are generally accessible at all times. However, the surrounding shops, restaurants, and the Basilica have their own operating hours.
Entry to the Basilica of Our Lady of Zapopan is typically free. However, donations are always appreciated to help with its upkeep and preservation.
Generally, there are no major restrictions for visiting the Arcos. However, it's always good practice to be mindful of local customs, especially when visiting religious sites like the Basilica.
According to some visitor feedback, there are no restrictions on drone usage in the area, which can be great for aerial photography.
📸 📸 Photography
The Arcos themselves are a prime photo opportunity. Also, look for the large 'ZAPOPAN' letters in the vicinity for fun, memorable shots.
The Basilica also offers beautiful architectural backdrops.Yes, the grand archway, the Basilica, and the surrounding vibrant atmosphere make it a picturesque location for portraits.
Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer light, ideal for photography. During holidays, the evening lights create a magical ambiance.
Photography rules inside religious buildings can vary. It's best to observe any posted signs or ask for guidance from church staff regarding photo permissions inside the Basilica.
During festive seasons, the elaborate holiday decorations provide unique and colorful photo opportunities.
You might also find street performers or local vendors that add character to your shots.🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The area around the Arcos is a culinary hotspot! You'll find a variety of options, including delicious Sinaloa-style tacos, pizza, wings, and unique metallic malteadas.
Yes, the area offers numerous restaurants and food stalls that cater to various tastes, making it suitable for family dining. Many places offer casual and approachable menus.
Explore the Mercado near the Basilica for a wide array of local food options and street vendors offering authentic flavors.
Don't hesitate to try the tacos from 'Los de Guadalupe' for a taste of Sinaloa style.While many local specialties are meat-based, you can often find options like quesadillas, vegetable-filled empanadas, or fruit-based desserts. It's best to ask vendors about ingredients.
You absolutely must try the Sinaloa-style tacos, especially the carne asada and tripas. Also, don't miss out on the creative metallic malteadas and tapioca drinks.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during weekday mornings to avoid larger crowds, making it easier to navigate with children. The L3 train is also a fun and easy way to travel, adding to the adventure. While the Basilica is a place of worship, its impressive architecture can still be appreciated by older children.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The Basilica of Our Lady of Zapopan provides a more solemn and architecturally rich backdrop. During festive seasons, the holiday decorations add a unique and colorful dimension to your portfolio. Remember that drone usage is reportedly unrestricted, offering potential for unique aerial perspectives.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Utilizing public transport, such as the L3 train, is a cost-effective way to reach the area. Exploring the Mercado also offers budget-friendly food and souvenir options. This area provides a rich cultural experience without requiring significant expenditure.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Arcos de Zapopan Area
Beyond the main arch, the area buzzes with activity. You'll discover a variety of food stalls and a nearby market offering everything from authentic Sinaloa-style tacos to unique sweet treats like metallic malteadas and tapioca drinks. For those interested in photography, the Arcos themselves, the Basilica, and even the large 'ZAPOPAN' letters provide excellent backdrops.
During festive periods, the Arcos de Zapopan are beautifully decorated, especially for the holidays, adding an extra layer of charm and visual appeal. This makes it a dynamic destination that offers different experiences throughout the year, from a casual stroll to a festive celebration.
Culinary Delights Around the Arcos
Beyond tacos, you can find other popular treats. 'La Paleteria' offers unique metallic malteadas, with flavors like Magnum and Reese's, providing a refreshing and indulgent experience. For those with a sweet tooth, Buddha serves chocolate-flavored tapioca drinks, including a special 'Dubai' flavor, offering a taste of exotic sweetness. The nearby Mercado is also a fantastic place to explore local flavors and find various food options.
Whether you're looking for a savory meal or a sweet treat, the food scene around the Arcos de Zapopan is vibrant and full of delicious discoveries. It's an integral part of the Zapopan experience, complementing the historical and cultural attractions.
Historical Significance and Local Charm
The surrounding streets are filled with local charm, featuring numerous restaurants, shops, and market stalls. This creates a lively atmosphere where you can experience the daily life of Zapopan. The presence of the 'ZAPOPAN' letters offers a fun, modern element for visitors to engage with and capture memories.
During the holiday season, the area truly comes alive with festive decorations, transforming the Arcos and nearby plazas into a magical spectacle. This blend of historical significance, religious devotion, and vibrant local life makes the Arcos de Zapopan a compelling destination for anyone looking to experience the heart of Zapopan.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit