A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Guadalajara vs. Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park for Attractions, Food, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Guadalajara or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Guadalajara or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park, 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.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is a vast, overlooked, and underrated park. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the hiking.

Guadalajara and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Guadalajara or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Guadalajara than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park, 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 Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty. Guadalajara is more touristy than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and is popular for its mariachi music, tequila, and many festivals. Also, Guadalajara is famous for the Guadalajara Cathedral. Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is well known for its alpine lakes, hydrothermal activity, and unique volcanoes.

How is Guadalajara different from Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 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 Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Guadalajara
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Guadalajara is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a good park 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.

While most people don't head to Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Visit the Loomis Museum to learn about the park history and see historic photos of the park. The building was constructed in 1972 and is worth a stopover.


Is the Food Better in Guadalajara or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Guadalajara
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Guadalajara is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a good park 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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. You'll find restaurants and shops at three locations within the park. Options are much more limited during the winter months, but you will find places to eat on the south side of the park in Mineral, Mill Creek, and Chester. On the north side, the closest towns are Shingletown and Old Station.

Is Guadalajara or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Nightlife?

Guadalajara
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Guadalajara is a well-known place for nightlife. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a good park for nightlife and partying.

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.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park doesn't offer many options. Stargazing and campfire chats are the best ways to enjoy evening in the park.

Is Guadalajara or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for its Old Town?

Guadalajara
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Guadalajara is a well-known place for its historic old town. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 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.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park does not have a historic old town.


Is Guadalajara or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Hiking?

Guadalajara
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is great for hiking. However, Guadalajara is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park for the hiking trails. There are more than 150 miles of hiking trails in the park. Many pass by the park's hydrothermal areas, but there are also trails that follow the edge of the alpine lakes or go through flower-filled meadows. Bumpass Hell Trail is one of the most notable hikes, but visitors also enjoy Lassen Peak Trail, Cinder Cone Trail, and Manzanita Lake Loop.

Guadalajara is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Guadalajara or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Guadalajara
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Guadalajara is a well-known place for shopping. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a good park 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.

If you're looking to go shopping, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park has some nice offerings. There are stores and gift shops near the visitor centers.

Is Guadalajara or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Families?

Guadalajara
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is a nice place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. However, Guadalajara is not a good destination for its family-friendly activities.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park offers lots of family activities. While many of the hikes in the park are challenging for kids, there are still some great options for those with little legs. Manzanita Lake Trail is less than two miles and makes a great introductory hike. Bumpass Hell Trail is three miles, and it's a highlight of any trip to the park.

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 Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Couples?

Guadalajara
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is great for couples. Also, Guadalajara is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is a great park if you're traveling as a couple. The setting makes a romantic backdrop for those who enjoy hiking and outdoor adventures. You can go kayaking or river rafting during the day and then enjoy stargazing at night.

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 Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Guadalajara
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

For backpackers, both Guadalajara and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park are high quality places to visit.

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

Backpackers come from all over to visit Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. There is a large backcountry area which offers a unique hiking and camping experience. You'll need to purchase permits before your trip.

Is Guadalajara or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Guadalajara
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is mediocre for times when you don't have a car. However, Guadalajara does not have public transit.

Public transit is quite limited in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. There is no public transportation in the park.

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 Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park a more walkable city?

Guadalajara
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Guadalajara is a well-known place for its walkability. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a good park 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.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a very walkable city. The park is large, so to efficiently access the different hiking trails you'll need to have a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Guadalajara Worth Visiting? and Is Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park or Guadalajara?

How long in Guadalajara or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Guadalajara and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. In our opinion, Guadalajara has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Guadalajara than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Guadalajara than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 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 Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Guadalajara 2-3 
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 2-3

One day in Guadalajara or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

In Guadalajara, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this destination offers. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the underrated park of Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. 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 Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Guadalajara, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. In Guadalajara, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this vibrant destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the underrated destination of Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This park 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 Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the city of Guadalajara. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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 underrated park of Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park offers . 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 Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Guadalajara is a popular choice for travelers. Visiting the old town is also a must. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Many people enjoy the when visiting Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. 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 Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 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 Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is $126. 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 Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Guadalajara $42
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $62
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Guadalajara $84
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $124
Compare Hotels in Guadalajara and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Looking for a hotel in Guadalajara or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park? 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 Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park


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.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Guadalajara $39
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $56

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Guadalajara or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Prices for flights to both Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 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
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $30

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
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $21

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: $15
  • Guided Tour of the Historic Center of Guadalajara in French: $15
  • Guadalajara City Tour: $20
  • Great Experience With A Tour Guide With Spark: $21
  • ticket to Michin Aquarium: $28
  • Private Guadalajara City Tour Within Your Budget: $31
  • Culture, Architecture, and Market Walking Tour: $32
  • Private Tour with a Local Guide in Guadalajara: $34
  • Guadalajara Like a Local: Customized Private Tour: $35

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Guadalajara $18
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $19

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 comparing the travel costs between Guadalajara and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park, we can see that Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


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