A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Guadalajara vs. Martha's Vineyard for Couples, Attractions, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Guadalajara or Martha's Vineyard?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Guadalajara or Martha's Vineyard, 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.

Martha's Vineyard

Martha's Vineyard is a coastal, peaceful, and affluent island. 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 shopping, food, and beaches.

Guadalajara and Martha's Vineyard: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good public transit
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Guadalajara or Martha's Vineyard?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Guadalajara. Although Guadalajara and Martha's Vineyard 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 Martha's Vineyard attracts visitors for its resorts, beaches, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Martha's Vineyard is more touristy than Guadalajara and is known for its natural beauty, charming New England towns, and upscale local shopping. 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 Martha's Vineyard?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Guadalajara
Martha's Vineyard

Guadalajara is a great city for its historical sights. However, Martha's Vineyard is not known for its sights and museums.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around 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.

Martha's Vineyard offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are a couple of local museums in the area as well as the Martha's Vineyard Museum.


Is the Food Better in Guadalajara or Martha's Vineyard? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Guadalajara
Martha's Vineyard

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Guadalajara and Martha's Vineyard can be difficult as they are each great 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, Martha's Vineyard makes for a great culinary experience. The region prioritizes sustainable agriculture and there are many local eateries that range from upscale to more casual. You'll find the greatest number of options during the peak summer months, but regardless of when you visit, you're sure to eat well.

Is Guadalajara or Martha's Vineyard Better for Nightlife?

Guadalajara
Martha's Vineyard

Guadalajara is a great city for its evening party scene. However, Martha's Vineyard is not known for nightlife.

The nightlife in Guadalajara has something for everybody. 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.

Most people don't head to Martha's Vineyard specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. There's more of a laid back vibe, but the best towns in the evening are Edgartown and Oak Bluffs.

Is Guadalajara or Martha's Vineyard Better for Resorts?

Guadalajara
Martha's Vineyard

Martha's Vineyard is an amazing island to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Guadalajara is not a resort destination.

Martha's Vineyard offers an unforgettable resort vacation. There are beautiful and luxurious resorts that attract celebrities and socialites. Many have pools and serene outdoor spaces that you can enjoy.

Guadalajara is not a resort destination.


Is Guadalajara or Martha's Vineyard Better for Beaches?

Guadalajara
Martha's Vineyard

Martha's Vineyard is great for the beach. However, Guadalajara is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Martha's Vineyard. The beaches are scenic and peaceful. Head to northern side of the island for shallow water, or south for more surf. While there are some public beaches that are open to everyone, there are also beaches that require a parking or town beach permit to visit.

Guadalajara is not a beach destination.

Is Guadalajara or Martha's Vineyard Better for its Old Town?

Guadalajara
Martha's Vineyard

Guadalajara is a great city for its historic old town charm. However, Martha's Vineyard does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see 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.

Martha's Vineyard does not have a historic old town.

Is Guadalajara or Martha's Vineyard Better for Hiking?

Guadalajara
Martha's Vineyard

Martha's Vineyard is a nice place to visit for hiking. However, Guadalajara is not a hiking destination.

Martha's Vineyard has hiking trails worth exploring. There are miles of trails around the island that pass through fields or along the coastline. The island is mostly flat, so the hikes are relatively easy for all skill levels.

Guadalajara is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Guadalajara or Martha's Vineyard?

Guadalajara
Martha's Vineyard

If you're looking to go shopping, Guadalajara and Martha's Vineyard both offer plenty of great 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.

Martha's Vineyard is an extremely popular place for shoppers. There are no malls, so you'll enjoy shopping at local stores that sell a mix of locally made items and name brand. There are many art galleries as well as craft festivals during the summer months.

Is Guadalajara or Martha's Vineyard Better for Families?

Guadalajara
Martha's Vineyard

Martha's Vineyard is a nice place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. However, Guadalajara is not a good destination for its family-friendly activities.

Martha's Vineyard offers lots of family activities. You can visit local farms or go to a local baseball game. There's also cafes, ice cream shops, and donut shops that kids will enjoy.

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 Martha's Vineyard Better for Couples?

Guadalajara
Martha's Vineyard

Martha's Vineyard is an amazing island to visit for couples. Also, Guadalajara is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Martha's Vineyard has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. It's filled with charming bed and breakfasts and plenty of New England charm. Couples will enjoy the quaint restaurants and mix of history, small town charm, and outdoor adventure.

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 Martha's Vineyard Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Guadalajara
Martha's Vineyard

Guadalajara is a great city for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Martha's Vineyard is not known for backpackers.

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

Martha's Vineyard is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. Budget options are limited, making this an inconvenient destination for backpackers.

Is Guadalajara or Martha's Vineyard Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Guadalajara
Martha's Vineyard

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

Public transit is mostly limited in Martha's Vineyard. Access to the island is limited to boat and air. There's a bus service that connects the towns.

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 Martha's Vineyard a more walkable city?

Guadalajara
Martha's Vineyard

Guadalajara is a great city for its ease of walking around. Also, Martha's Vineyard is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its walkability.

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

Martha's Vineyard is somewhat walkable. Many of the towns have walkable downtown areas, but traveling between towns and into the countryside requires a vehicle.


For even more information, also check out Is Guadalajara Worth Visiting? and Is Martha's Vineyard Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Martha's Vineyard or Guadalajara?

How long in Guadalajara or Martha's Vineyard?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Guadalajara and Martha's Vineyard. In our opinion, Martha's Vineyard has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Martha's Vineyard than Guadalajara. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Guadalajara, and 1-3 days is enough time in Martha's Vineyard.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Guadalajara than Martha's Vineyard 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 Martha's Vineyard? Ideal Length of Stay
    Guadalajara 2-3 
    Martha's Vineyard 1-3

One day in Guadalajara or Martha's Vineyard?

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.

Martha's Vineyard is a small town with plenty to do. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Guadalajara or Martha's Vineyard?

With museums and nightlife around the vibrant 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.

Martha's Vineyard might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This island 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 Martha's Vineyard?

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 Martha's Vineyard is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Martha's Vineyard?

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 Martha's Vineyard is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. 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 in United States of America, and The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Martha's Vineyard 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 Martha's Vineyard is $241. 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 Martha's Vineyard in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Guadalajara $42
    Martha's Vineyard $132
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Guadalajara $84
    Martha's Vineyard $264
Compare Hotels in Guadalajara and Martha's Vineyard

Looking for a hotel in Guadalajara or Martha's Vineyard? 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 Marthas Vineyard


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 Martha's Vineyard Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Guadalajara $39
    Martha's Vineyard $83

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 Martha's Vineyard?

Prices for flights to both Martha's Vineyard 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
    Martha's Vineyard $60

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

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Guadalajara $28
    Martha's Vineyard $30

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

Tours and Activities in Martha's Vineyard

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Martha's Vineyard.

  • 3-Hour Martha's Vineyard Island Tour from Oak Bluffs: $65
  • All Island Bus Tour: $65
  • Martha's Vinyard Driving & Walking GPS-Guided Audio Tour: $15
  • Martha’s Vineyard Self-Guided (APP/GPS) Audio Walking Tour: $7.75
  • Oak Bluffs, Martha's Vineyard Audio Tour: $13

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Guadalajara $18
    Martha's Vineyard $22

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 Martha's Vineyard, we can see that Martha's Vineyard 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 Martha's Vineyard would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Martha's Vineyard 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 Martha's Vineyard Expensive?.