A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Guadalajara vs. Carmel-by-the-Sea for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Couples

Should you visit Guadalajara or Carmel-by-the-Sea?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Guadalajara or Carmel-by-the-Sea, 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. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Carmel-by-the-Sea

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a quaint, charming, and picturesque town. With amazing attractions and sights, it's also a fun small town not to be missed. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and beaches.

Guadalajara and Carmel-by-the-Sea: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Guadalajara or Carmel-by-the-Sea?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Guadalajara. Although Guadalajara and Carmel-by-the-Sea are popular destinations, Guadalajara has more sights and attractions for tourists. Guadalajara is very popular for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, and big city activities, while Carmel-by-the-Sea attracts visitors for its beaches, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Carmel-by-the-Sea is more touristy than Guadalajara and is popular for its storybook architecture, its opulent setting, and its popularity with golf enthusiasts. 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 Carmel-by-the-Sea?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Guadalajara or Carmel-by-the-Sea?

Guadalajara is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Guadalajara. 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.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The Carmel Mission is a beautiful and fascinating Spanish mission that dates back to 1770. It's also well worth visiting the nearby Pebble Beach Golf Course. There are also a few fairytale style cottages in the area with some of the most notable being the Hansel cottage, the Gretel cottage, and the Tuck Box cottage.

Is the Food Better in Guadalajara or Carmel-by-the-Sea? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Guadalajara and Carmel-by-the-Sea can be difficult as they are each high quality in their own way.

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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Carmel-by-the-Sea makes for a great culinary experience. For such a small town there is a huge number of bistros and local cafes. Seafood is popular, but you'll also find international restaurants and more casual eateries.

Is Guadalajara or Carmel-by-the-Sea Better for Nightlife?

Guadalajara is a well-known place for its evening party scene. However, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not a good town for nightlife.

Guadalajara offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Carmel-by-the-Sea. It's not a late night town, but there are a couple of bars and some decent Happy Hours around town.

Is Guadalajara or Carmel-by-the-Sea Better for Beaches?

Carmel-by-the-Sea is great for the beach. However, Guadalajara is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Carmel-by-the-Sea. It's easy to walk to the beach from the village center. Just head down Ocean Avenue and you'll be at a beautiful beach with great scenery, surfing, and fun activities.

Guadalajara is not a beach destination.

Is Guadalajara or Carmel-by-the-Sea Better for its Old Town?

Guadalajara is a well-known place for its historic old town charm. However, Carmel-by-the-Sea does not have a historic old town.

Guadalajara is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. 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.

Carmel-by-the-Sea does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Guadalajara or Carmel-by-the-Sea?

If you're looking to go shopping, Guadalajara and Carmel-by-the-Sea both offer plenty of high quality 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.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is an extremely popular place for shoppers. It's easy to walk around the heart of town and pop in the many shops and galleries. The highest concentration of shops is found around the Carmel Plaza which has upscale brands as well as local items.

Is Guadalajara or Carmel-by-the-Sea Better for Families?

Neither Guadalajara nor Carmel-by-the-Sea are considered to be the most family-friendly destination.

For families, Guadalajara is not always the best place to visit. While it's not the most popular destination for families, those who visit will enjoy exploring the nature parks or amusement parks.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is not the most family-friendly destination. Carmel is a good place to let the kids stretch their legs. There are also some good kid-friendly walks in the area.

Is Guadalajara or Carmel-by-the-Sea Better for Couples?

Carmel-by-the-Sea is great for couples. Also, Guadalajara is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. It's a charming town with a beautiful coastline and plenty of cute hotels that makes for a great romantic getaway. There's wonderful shopping and many great restaurants where you can enjoy a local meal.

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 Carmel-by-the-Sea Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Guadalajara is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Carmel-by-the-Sea is not a good town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Guadalajara is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. There are plenty of hostels and cheap hotels around town.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There aren't any real hostels or accommodation options that appeal to backpackers.

Is Guadalajara or Carmel-by-the-Sea Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Carmel-by-the-Sea is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Guadalajara does not have public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in Carmel-by-the-Sea. There are a couple of buses, but you can't really depend on them to get around.

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 Carmel-by-the-Sea a more walkable city?

Guadalajara and Carmel-by-the-Sea are high quality 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.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is very walkable. The village center is very walkable so it's easy to park you car and shop or walk to the beach.

For even more information, also check out Is Guadalajara Worth Visiting? and Is Carmel-by-the-Sea Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Carmel-by-the-Sea or Guadalajara?

How long in Guadalajara or Carmel-by-the-Sea?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Guadalajara and Carmel-by-the-Sea. In our opinion, Guadalajara has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Guadalajara than Carmel-by-the-Sea. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Guadalajara, and 1-3 days is enough time in Carmel-by-the-Sea.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Guadalajara than Carmel-by-the-Sea 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.

One day in Guadalajara or Carmel-by-the-Sea?

With shopping and museums around the destination of Guadalajara, there's plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It offers something for everyone.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a small town with plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Guadalajara or Carmel-by-the-Sea?

With museums and nightlife around the historical city of Guadalajara, there's plenty to do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Visiting the old town is also a must. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here.

Carmel-by-the-Sea might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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 Carmel-by-the-Sea?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historical destination of Guadalajara. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Because Carmel-by-the-Sea is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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 Carmel-by-the-Sea?

Guadalajara is a popular choice for travelers. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Since Carmel-by-the-Sea is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people come for the beaches. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Guadalajara and Carmel-by-the-Sea, we can see that Guadalajara is more expensive. And not only is Carmel-by-the-Sea much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Carmel-by-the-Sea would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Carmel-by-the-Sea 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 Guadalajara would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Guadalajara than you might in Carmel-by-the-Sea.

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

Which is Bigger, Guadalajara or Carmel-by-the-Sea?

Guadalajara has a larger population, and is about 400 times larger than the population of Carmel-by-the-Sea. When comparing the sizes of Guadalajara and Carmel-by-the-Sea, 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.