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

Should you visit Guadalajara or Cherokee?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Guadalajara or Cherokee, 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 cultural, historical, and vibrant city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Cherokee

Cherokee is a fascinating, cultural, and genuine town. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and hiking.

Guadalajara and Cherokee: 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
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Guadalajara or Cherokee?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Guadalajara than Cherokee, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Guadalajara is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Cherokee is more popular for its hiking. Guadalajara is well known for its mariachi music, tequila, and many festivals. Also, Guadalajara is famous for the Guadalajara Cathedral. Cherokee is well known for its cultural experiences and nearby hiking trails.

How is Guadalajara different from Cherokee?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Cherokee 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 Cherokee?

Guadalajara
Cherokee

Guadalajara is notable for its sights and museums. Also, Cherokee is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Guadalajara can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

Cherokee offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Many of the museums educate visitors on the Native American culture. Oconaluftee Indian Village, the Museum of the Cherokee People, and the Mountain Farm Museum each offer a unique and interesting perspective.


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

Guadalajara
Cherokee

Guadalajara is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Cherokee is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Guadalajara makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Cherokee has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are casual sandwich shops as well as several places that offer traditional Cherokee foods such as fry bread.

Is Guadalajara or Cherokee Better for Nightlife?

Guadalajara
Cherokee

Guadalajara is notable for nightlife. However, Cherokee is a mediocre town for nightlife and partying.

Guadalajara has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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 Cherokee. The town is generally quiet but you can head to Harrah's Cherokee Casino for drinks and entertainment.

Is Guadalajara or Cherokee Better for its Old Town?

Guadalajara
Cherokee

Guadalajara is notable for its historic old town. However, Cherokee does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Guadalajara to see the historical old town. 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.

Cherokee does not have a historic old town.


Is Guadalajara or Cherokee Better for Hiking?

Guadalajara
Cherokee

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

Many visitors go to Cherokee for the hiking trails. There are many trails in the area that pass through forests, wander by waterfalls, and take you to spectacular viewpoints. The fall foliage is particularly nice during the autumn months.

Guadalajara is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Guadalajara or Cherokee?

Guadalajara
Cherokee

Guadalajara is notable for shopping. Also, Cherokee is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Guadalajara is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Cherokee. There are craft shops and artisan vendors in the downtown area. It's fun to wander around for a few hours.

Is Guadalajara or Cherokee Better for Families?

Guadalajara
Cherokee

Cherokee 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 Cherokee. It's proximity to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park make this a fun destination for families. There are countless outdoor adventure activities. The town is also filled with Cherokee history and culture, so it offers educational experiences as well.

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 Cherokee Better for Couples?

Guadalajara
Cherokee

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

Cherokee is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. Nearby there are many outdoor activities and adventure experiences. Couples who enjoy nature and exploring will appreciate a stay here.

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 Cherokee Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Guadalajara
Cherokee

Guadalajara is notable for backpackers. Also, Cherokee is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Guadalajara. There are plenty of hostels and cheap hotels around town.

Cherokee is a good city to visit for backpackers. There are several great campgrounds in the area as well as plenty of hiking opportunities.

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

Guadalajara
Cherokee

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

Public transit is mostly limited in Cherokee. There are some bus and shuttle routes, but a private vehicle is important if you want to make the most of your visit.

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 Cherokee a more walkable city?

Guadalajara
Cherokee

Guadalajara is notable for its walkability. However, Cherokee is a mediocre town for its high level of walkability.

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

Cherokee is generally not a very walkable city. If you want to explore the area, you'll need a car to reach most places.

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

Should I spend more time in Cherokee or Guadalajara?

How long in Guadalajara or Cherokee?

It's fun to spend time in either Guadalajara or Cherokee. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Cherokee 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 Cherokee.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Guadalajara than Cherokee 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 Cherokee? Ideal Length of Stay
    Guadalajara 2-3 
    Cherokee 2-4

One day in Guadalajara or Cherokee?

The city of Guadalajara offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the genuine town of Cherokee. 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 Cherokee?

Guadalajara is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Guadalajara, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the fascinating destination of Cherokee. 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 Cherokee?

Guadalajara is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

The genuine town of Cherokee offers museums and food. 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 Cherokee?

Guadalajara is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

Many people enjoy the food and shopping when visiting Cherokee. 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 2-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Cherokee 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 Cherokee is $174. 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 Cherokee in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Guadalajara $42
    Cherokee $158
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Guadalajara $84
    Cherokee $316
Compare Hotels in Guadalajara and Cherokee

Looking for a hotel in Guadalajara or Cherokee? 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 Cherokee


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 Cherokee Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Guadalajara $39
    Cherokee -

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Guadalajara

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

  • Shared Departure Transfer: Hotels to Guadalajara Airport: $26
  • Tequila to Guadalajara Airport (GDL): Departure Private Transfer: $38
  • Guadalajara Airport (GDL) to Tequila - Arrival Private Transfer: $38
  • Guadalajara Airport (GDL) to Guadalajara hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $49
  • Guadalajara hotels to Guadalajara Airport (GDL) - Departure Private Transfer: $49
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Airport to Guadalajara, Chalapa & Tequila Hotels: $63
  • Private transfer: Guadalajara to Guadalajara Airport (GDL): $73
  • Private transfer: Guadalajara Airport (GDL) to Guadalajara: $73
  • Private Transfer from Guadalajara city hotels to Manzanillo Port: $76
  • Guadalajara Airport(GDL) to Tequila - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $76
  • Private Transfer from Guadalajara Airport(GDL) to Manzanillo Port: $76
  • Guadalajara Airport (GDL) to Guadalajara hotels - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $98

Is it cheaper to fly into Guadalajara or Cherokee?

Prices for flights to both Cherokee 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
    Cherokee $16

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Guadalajara

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

  • Authentic Mexican Cooking & Tequila tasting experience-Casa Humo: $111
  • Mexican Cooking Classes and Market Visit in Guadalajara: $149
  • VIP Tequila Night Tour with Dinner and Tasting: $189

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Guadalajara $28
    Cherokee -

Tours and Activities in Guadalajara

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

  • Guadalajara Unique Highlights Walking Tour: $10
  • Guadalajara Unique Highlights Walking Tour: $10
  • KidZania Entrance Ticket: $12
  • 10-Day Audio Guide Tour of Guadalajara: $12
  • Guided Tour of the Historic Center of Guadalajara in French: $15
  • Orendain Classic Tour: $20
  • Guadalajara City Tour: $20
  • Great Experience With A Tour Guide With Spark: $21
  • Private Tasting Tour Hacienda de Oro, Amatitan Jalisco: $22
  • Michin Aquarium Guadalajara ticket: $28
  • ticket to Michin Aquarium: $28
  • Private Guadalajara City Tour Within Your Budget: $31

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Guadalajara $18
    Cherokee -

Sample the Local Flavors in Guadalajara

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

  • Friday Night Bar Crawl in Guadalajara: $25
  • Cultural tour, city fields and distillery: $32
  • Guadalajara Arquitecture and Brewery Tour: $56
  • Tequila distillery experience, Jose Cuervo & Tequila Magic Town: $77
  • Private Adventure to El Tequileño Distillery and visit to Tequila: $173
  • Private One Day Adventure Tour in Tequila and La Fortaleza Distillery: $173
  • Sip & Savor Tequila Experience Distillery w/ Lunch fr Guadalajara: $180
  • Private Tour La Fortaleza Distillery and visit to Tequila: $190
  • Private Tour Cascahuin Distillery and visit to Tequila: $190
  • Private Tour to El Tequileño Distillery and visit to Tequila: $190
  • Private Tour one day in Guachimontones and La Fortaleza Distillery: $209
  • Private Tour to Tequila Ocho Distillery and the Town of Arandas: $209


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Guadalajara and Cherokee, we can see that Cherokee 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 Cherokee would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Cherokee 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 Cherokee Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Guadalajara or Cherokee?

Guadalajara has a larger population, and is about 260 times larger than the population of Cherokee. When comparing the sizes of Guadalajara and Cherokee, 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.