A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Guadalajara vs. Boone for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Guadalajara or Boone?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Guadalajara or Boone, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Guadalajara

Guadalajara is a vibrant, cultural, and historical city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Boone

Boone is a picturesque, charming, and relaxing town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, skiing, and nightlife.

Guadalajara and Boone: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Blue Ridge Parkway


Is there more to do in Guadalajara or Boone?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Guadalajara. Although Guadalajara and Boone are popular destinations, Guadalajara has more sights and attractions for tourists. Guadalajara is very popular for its museums, food, historical sights, and big city activities, while Boone attracts visitors for its skiing, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Boone is more touristy than Guadalajara and is known for its proximity to great hiking, skiing, and small town charm. Guadalajara is famous for its mariachi music, tequila, and many festivals. It is also well known for the Guadalajara Cathedral.

How is Guadalajara different from Boone?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Boone and Guadalajara. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Guadalajara or Boone Better for Skiing?

Guadalajara
Boone

Boone is great for skiing. However, Guadalajara is not a skiing destination.

Boone draws a large crowd in the winter for its impressive snow skiing opportunities. It's a very popular ski destination in North Carolina. There are family-friendly slopes as well as more challenging options. Head to the popular Appalachian Ski Mountain, nearby Beech Mountain, or Sugar Mountain for some of the area's best skiing.

Guadalajara is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Guadalajara or Boone?

Guadalajara
Boone

Guadalajara is a great city for its historical sights. Also, Boone is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its sights and museums.

Many visitors head to Guadalajara specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. It's a city that's filled with culture and history, with many impressive landmarks such as the Guadalajara Cathedral. Also make sure you visit the Instituto Cultural de Cabañas, Expiatory Temple, the Government Palace, and the Regional Museum of Guadalajara.

Boone is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Most people spend the majority of their time exploring the natural beauty, but there are also several small local museums such as the Banner House Museum.

Is the Food Better in Guadalajara or Boone? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Guadalajara
Boone

Guadalajara is a great city for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Boone is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Guadalajara has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The cuisine uses some key ingredients such as corn tortillas, chilis, and beans. You'll find a lot of street food which includes tacos and tortas as well as restaurant dishes like birria (meat stew), pozole (hominy soup), and fish ceviche.

Boone offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. You'll find farm to table restaurants, local cafes, and all of the standard chain restaurants nearby. Check for a High Country Grown certification if you want to prioritize locally sourced ingredients.

Is Guadalajara or Boone Better for Nightlife?

Guadalajara
Boone

The vibe at night is excellent in both Guadalajara and Boone.

Many people head to Guadalajara for the nightlife scene. The city comes to life at night. You'll find vibrant dance clubs, live music, and traditional bars. The craft beer scene has also grown in recent years. The most active areas are around Chapultepec Avenue and Zapopan.

Boone has plenty to do after the sun goes down. It's a small town, but there are local breweries and a great nightlife scene that is, in large part, influenced by the large student population.


Is Guadalajara or Boone Better for its Old Town?

Guadalajara
Boone

Guadalajara is a great city for its historic old town charm. However, Boone does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Guadalajara. The city center is filled with Spanish colonial architecture. With a walking tour you will find baroque, neoclassical, renaissance, and Gothic style buildings that highlight the city's long running past and rich history.

Boone does not have a historic old town.

Is Guadalajara or Boone Better for Hiking?

Guadalajara
Boone

Boone is great for hiking. However, Guadalajara is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Boone for the hiking trails. The area is filled with wonderful hikes, particularly around Grandfather Mountain and along the Blue Ridge Parkway. The famed Appalachian Trail passes through the area as well. Many hikes take you through beautiful forests, passed dramatic waterfalls, and to breathtaking viewpoints.

Guadalajara is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Guadalajara or Boone?

Guadalajara
Boone

If you're looking to go shopping, Guadalajara and Boone both offer plenty of excellent spots.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Guadalajara. One of the best shopping streets is Avenida Juarez. A must-see stop is also the large indoor market of Mercado Libertad. You'll also find shopping centers and retail outlets around town.

Boone is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Wander along King Street for some of the town's best shopping. There are independent vendors and antique shops that are fun to pop into. The town is also known for its farmer's markets.


Is Guadalajara or Boone Better for Families?

Guadalajara
Boone

Boone is great for its kid-friendly activities. However, Guadalajara is not a good destination for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Boone. Near town you'll find kid-friendly hikes, such as Linville Falls. There are also several places where kids can go ziplining or rock climbing. Parks and outdoor activities are abundant and the whole family will enjoy the setting.

Guadalajara is not the most family-friendly destination. While it's not the most popular destination for families, those who visit will enjoy exploring the nature parks or amusement parks.

Is Guadalajara or Boone Better for Couples?

Guadalajara
Boone

Boone is great for couples. Also, Guadalajara is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Boone is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. The charming town has a romantic setting with local restaurants, beautiful hikes, and plenty of shopping. Couples enjoy staying at bed and breakfasts and enjoying the quaint atmosphere.

Guadalajara is a nice destination for couples. It's filled with nice architecture, a vibrant nightlife scene, and great urban parks, making it a nice and romantic destination for couples.

Is Guadalajara or Boone Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Guadalajara
Boone

Guadalajara is a great city for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Boone is not as popular, but is still a nice town for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Guadalajara. There are plenty of hostels and cheap hotels around town.

It's common for backpackers to visit Boone. While there aren't many hostels in the area, there are plenty of campgrounds. The nearby Appalachian State University also ensures that there are plenty of fun activities for young visitors.


Is Guadalajara or Boone Better for Students?

Guadalajara
Boone

Boone is an amazing town to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Guadalajara is not popular with students.

Boone is a great destination for students. This mountain town offers a great setting for students who enjoy hiking and skiing. Appalachian State University is a fun college with plenty of activities going on.

Guadalajara is not popular with students.

Is Guadalajara or Boone Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Guadalajara
Boone

Boone is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Guadalajara does not have public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in Boone. You really need a car to make the most of your time.

Guadalajara does not have public transit. There's a bus system as well as a metro system with two lines, which are primarily used by commuters.

Is Guadalajara or Boone a more walkable city?

Guadalajara
Boone

Guadalajara and Boone are excellent when it comes to walkability.

Guadalajara is a very walkable destination. The city center is pedestrian-friendly. This is also where you'll find most of the sights.

Boone is very walkable. Head to King Street for the best shopping and the most pedestrian-friendly part of town.


For even more information, also check out Is Guadalajara Worth Visiting? and Is Boone Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Boone or Guadalajara?

How long in Guadalajara or Boone?

It's fun to spend time in either Guadalajara or Boone. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Boone due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Guadalajara, and 2-4 days is enough time in Boone.

Families should spend more time in Boone than Guadalajara. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Boone, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Boone than Guadalajara. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Boone that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Guadalajara than Boone if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Guadalajara.


  • How many days in Guadalajara or Boone? Ideal Length of Stay
    Guadalajara 2-3 
    Boone 2-4

One day in Guadalajara or Boone?

In Guadalajara, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this historical destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Boone is a small town with plenty to do. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Guadalajara or Boone?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Guadalajara. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Boone might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This town offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Guadalajara or Boone?

Guadalajara is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Guadalajara. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Because Boone is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.


A week in Guadalajara or Boone?

You'll find food and shopping around the vibrant destination of Guadalajara. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Since Boone is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Cancun, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Mexico, The Best Camping Tours in United States of America, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Boone or Guadalajara?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Guadalajara is $117, while the average daily cost in Boone is $173. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Guadalajara and Boone in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Guadalajara $42
    Boone $91
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Guadalajara $84
    Boone $182
Compare Hotels in Guadalajara and Boone

Looking for a hotel in Guadalajara or Boone? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Guadalajara


Hotels in Boone


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Guadalajara Hotel Prices and Boone Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Guadalajara $39
    Boone $33

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Guadalajara

Also for Guadalajara, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private transfer from Guadalajara to Sayulita: $241
  • Airport-Chapala/Ajijic Transfer: $229
  • Guadalajara Airport (GDL): Transfer to Guadalajara hotels: $174
  • Airport to City Transfer: $151
  • Guadalajara to Tequila - Private Transfer with English-speaking driver: $98
  • Tequila to Guadalajara - Private Transfer with English-speaking driver: $98
  • Private Transfer from Guadalajara Airport(GDL) to Manzanillo Port: $77
  • Guadalajara Airport(GDL) to Tequila - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $77
  • Private transfer: Guadalajara Airport (GDL) to Guadalajara: $73
  • Guadalajara hotels to Guadalajara Airport (GDL) - Departure Private Transfer: $49
  • Tequila to Guadalajara Airport (GDL): Departure Private Transfer: $38
  • Shared Departure Transfer: Hotels to Guadalajara Airport: $26

Is it cheaper to fly into Guadalajara or Boone?

Prices for flights to both Boone and Guadalajara change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Guadalajara $48
    Boone $53

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Guadalajara

For Guadalajara, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Guadalajara private food tour: $68
  • Mexican Cooking Classes and Market Visit in Guadalajara: $151

Typical Food Prices in Boone

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Boone:


  • Restaurant Lunch for 2
    $20

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Guadalajara $28
    Boone $53

Tours and Activities in Guadalajara

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Guadalajara.

  • 10-Day Audio Guide Tour of Guadalajara: $15
  • 6 Hours Private Tour Guide in Guadalajara, you choose!: $144
  • Adventure tour Between Charros, Mariachi and Parián de Tlaquepaque: $151
  • Air Adventure Paraglide over Incredible Landscapes: $155
  • Canopy Experience Panoramic Flight in Zip Lines: $43
  • Chapala Ajijic Area Tour from Guadalajara: $40
  • Chapala and Ajijic Private Tour: $120
  • Charreria heritage tour be a charro for a day: $50
  • City tour in Guadalajara and Tlaquepaque: $94
  • Complete Tour on the Tequila Route from Guadalajara: $58
  • Downtown Guadalajara and Tlaquepaque Tour: $73
  • Electric Scooter Tour in Guadalajara: $60

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Guadalajara $18
    Boone $26

Sample the Local Flavors in Guadalajara

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Guadalajara:

  • Guadalajara Arquitecture and Brewery Tour: $56
  • Tequila distillery experience, Jose Cuervo & Tequila Magic Town: $77
  • full day Tequila tour visiting artisanal distillery and downtown.: $85
  • Private One Day Adventure Tour in Tequila and La Fortaleza Distillery: $175
  • Sip & Savor Tequila Experience Distillery w/ Lunch fr Guadalajara: $180
  • Private Tour La Fortaleza Distillery and visit to Tequila: $190
  • Private Tour to El Tequileño Distillery and visit to Tequila: $190
  • Private Tour to Distillery Tequila Ocho and Arandas : $200
  • Private Tour one day in Guachimontones and La Fortaleza Distillery: $212
  • Private Tour to Tequila Ocho Distillery and the Town of Arandas: $212


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Guadalajara and Boone, we can see that Boone is more expensive. And not only is Guadalajara much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Guadalajara would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Guadalajara and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Boone would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Boone than you might in Guadalajara.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Guadalajara Expensive? and Is Boone Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Guadalajara or Boone?

Guadalajara has a larger population, and is about 130 times larger than the population of Boone. When comparing the sizes of Guadalajara and Boone, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.