Under $100: Guadalajara, Jalisco

In the western state of Jalisco, Guadalajara boasts some incredible Mexican culture, including historical landmarks, idyllic neighborhoods, fun shopping, dining and live mariachi music. Paint the town read with very little green (or multicolored peso, in this instance) and explore Guadalajara cheaply.

Definitely start your day with breakfast at Café P’al Real. The swanky coffee shop meets greenhouse vibe isn’t the only Instagramable aspect of this restaurant — the food is stunning. The average cost of breakfast, coffee included, typically runs about $12.

Explore the city on foot and check out its plethora of galleries, museums and green spaces. One neighborhood, Americana, offers plenty of free activities and is easily walkable. Pop in different shops and explore this international corner of the city.

Save your pennies for a visit to Tlaquepaque, also known as San Pedro Tlaquepaque. This corner of the city is a stretch of cobblestone streets and colorful shops filled with stunning décor. Many locals spend a pretty penny on pottery, handmade goods and stunning home goods. Shop around and haggle for jewelry prices on the street or grab a few souvenirs in the established shops — the prices are nothing compared to our shops in trendy U.S. cities.

Keep the budget tight with dining stops at El Patio Tlaquepaque, or visit street vendors at the center of the bustling neighborhood, offering a little bit of everything you’ve been meaning to try in Mexico.

For something with ambiance, Casa Luna is difficult to miss. Many visitors just pop in to look at the décor, it’s that beautiful.

This city is an affordable one. The majority of your expenses will be getting from one place to another, and shopping because you may just not want to stop.