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

Should you visit Guadalajara or New York City?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Guadalajara or New York City, 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. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

New York City

New York City is a energetic, cosmopolitan, and one-of-a-kind city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the theater, nightlife, and live music.

Guadalajara and New York City: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Guadalajara or New York City?

You'll generally find more things to do in New York City than Guadalajara. New York City is bigger than Guadalajara, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. New York City is better known for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, christmas markets, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Guadalajara is more popular for its historical sights. New York City is more touristy than Guadalajara and is known for its high-reaching skyscrapers, iconic landmarks, world-class theater scene, and endless energy. Also, New York City is famous for The Statue of Liberty. Guadalajara is well known for its mariachi music, tequila, and many festivals.

How is Guadalajara different from New York City?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between New York City 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 New York City?

New York City is an amazing city to visit for its historical sights. Also, Guadalajara is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, New York City has many famous sights for visitors. The sights and museums around the city are too numerous to list, but some of the most famous include the Statue of Liberty, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Museum of Modern Art, Central Park, and the Empire State Building. This is a city that is filled with iconic landmarks and you could spend weeks here and still not see it all.

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.

Is Guadalajara or New York City Better for Theater?

New York City is an amazing city to visit for its shows and theatre. However, Guadalajara is not a theatre destination.

Famous for its theaters and plays, you'll find world-renowned shows in New York City. Visiting Broadway is a quintessential NYC experience. Whether you enjoy the theater or simply want to experience something new, seeing a Broadway show is a true bucket list activity.

Guadalajara is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Guadalajara or New York City? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

New York City is an amazing city to visit for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Guadalajara is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, New York City is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The city has a diverse variety of restaurants, with everything from local dives to Michelin star options. There are many neighborhoods that are notable for their ethnic cuisine, particularly Little Italy and Chinatown. Quintessential NYC dishes include NYC pizza, NYC hot dogs, bagels, and Chinese dim sum.

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.

Is Guadalajara or New York City Better for Nightlife?

New York City is an amazing city to visit for its evening party scene. Also, Guadalajara is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife.

New York City has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. Known as the city that never sleeps, you can be assured that NYC has some of the best nightlife in the world. There are world class bars and clubs, but also local venues that have a more relaxed atmosphere. Several famous clubs include Paul's Cocktail Lounge, Le Bain, and Avant Gardner.

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.

Is Guadalajara or New York City Better for Music?

New York City is an amazing city to visit for its music scene. However, Guadalajara is not a live music destination.

New York City has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. Popular music venues include Music Hall of Williamsburg, Radio City Music Hall, Beacon Theatre, and Forest Hills Stadium.

Guadalajara is not a live music destination.

Is Guadalajara or New York City Better for its Old Town?

Guadalajara is an excellent place to visit for its historic old town. However, New York City 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.

New York City does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Guadalajara or New York City?

New York City is an amazing city to visit for its shopping areas. Also, Guadalajara is not as popular, but is still a nice city for shopping.

Many people travel to New York City specifically to go shopping. The shopping is as diverse as the city itself. Head for Fifth Avenue for high end shopping or check out any of the many street markets for local items. New York is known for its many flea markets where you can find vintage items at a good price. And if you're looking to pick up a souvenir shirt or knick knack, there are plenty of souvenir shops around town as well.

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.

Is Guadalajara or New York City Better for Christmas?

New York City is an amazing city to visit for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Guadalajara does not offer Christmas activities.

With so many activities, New York City is a top place to visit during Christmas. Christmas in the city is a quintessential experience. From the Christmas tree and ice skating at Rockefeller Center to seeing a live performance of the Nutcracker, everyone enjoys the holidays in New York.

Guadalajara does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Guadalajara or New York City Better for Christmas Markets?

New York City is great for visiting Christmas markets. However, Guadalajara does not offer Christmas markets.

The Christmas markets in New York City offer plenty to see during the holidays. There are a number of Christmas markets that pop up around town during the holiday season. Nothing will get you more in the holiday spirit than wandering these unique venues.

Guadalajara does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Guadalajara or New York City Better for Families?

New York City 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 New York City. The city has many activities for kids of all ages including world class museums, beautifully designed playgrounds, and theater shows designed just for young ones. There are many kid-friendly restaurants as well and older kids will enjoy visiting the iconic landmarks in this world-class city.

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 New York City Better for Couples?

New York City is an amazing city to visit for couples. Also, Guadalajara is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

New York City has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. From a beautiful carriage ride through Central Park, to a romantic river cruise at night, there is an endless list of unique activities that couples can enjoy in the city. Whether you're interested in theater, the arts, music, or nightlife, this city has it all.

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 New York City Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Guadalajara and New York City are great 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 New York City. It isn't a particularly budget-friendly destination, but it does get its share of backpackers, so you'll find a nice list of hostels and affordable hangouts that are perfect for the backpacker crowd. This is probably one of the most popular cities for backpackers in the entire United States.

Is Guadalajara or New York City Better for Students?

New York City is an amazing city to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Guadalajara is not popular with students.

New York City is a great destination for students. The city has a diverse population, and international students will feel right at home here exploring the city. There are also plenty of major universities including NYU, Columbia University, and Cornell University.

Guadalajara is not popular with students.

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

New York City is an amazing city to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Guadalajara does not have public transit.

Public transit in New York City is top-notch. The city has one of the largest subway systems in the world. There's also an elaborate bus system, ferry system, and yellow taxis all around town.

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 New York City a more walkable city?

New York City is an amazing city to visit for its ease of walking around. Also, Guadalajara is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its walkability.

New York City is a very easy city to get around on foot. The majority of the neighborhoods in Manhattan are very walkable and easy to explore on foot. Most people prefer not to drive here as it can be overwhelming and chaotic.

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

For even more information, also check out Is Guadalajara Worth Visiting? and Is New York City Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in New York City or Guadalajara?

How long in Guadalajara or New York City?

Both Guadalajara and New York City have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in New York City than in Guadalajara. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Guadalajara, and 3-7 days is enough time in New York City.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in New York City than Guadalajara 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 New York City.

One day in Guadalajara or New York City?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historical destination of Guadalajara. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

New York City is a vibrant city where you can fill many days. 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 New York City?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Guadalajara. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

New York City is a cosmopolitan big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Guadalajara or New York City?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historical destination of Guadalajara. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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.

New York City is a vibrant city where you can fill many days. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Guadalajara or New York City?

You'll find food and shopping around the city of Guadalajara. 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. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

New York City is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this city.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Cancun, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Mexico, The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, and The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Guadalajara or New York City?

New York City has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Guadalajara. When comparing the sizes of Guadalajara and New York City, 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.