A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Guadalajara vs. Yellowstone National Park for Backpackers, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Guadalajara or Yellowstone 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 Yellowstone 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 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 shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is a unique, stunning, and breathtaking national park. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the hiking.

Guadalajara and Yellowstone 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
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Old Faithful
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Guadalajara or Yellowstone National Park?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Guadalajara. Although Guadalajara and Yellowstone National Park are popular destinations, Guadalajara has more sights and attractions for tourists. Guadalajara is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Yellowstone National Park attracts visitors for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. Yellowstone National Park is more touristy than Guadalajara and is popular for its iconic geysers, breathtaking waterfalls, world-class hikes, and diverse wildlife. 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 Yellowstone National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Yellowstone 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 Yellowstone National Park?

Guadalajara
Yellowstone National Park

Guadalajara is well known for its museums and landmarks. However, Yellowstone National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Guadalajara offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

Yellowstone National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Guadalajara or Yellowstone National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Guadalajara
Yellowstone National Park

Guadalajara is well known for its restaurant scene. However, Yellowstone National Park is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in Guadalajara is an experience not to be missed. 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.

Yellowstone National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. This is a large park and there are a number of dining options available both inside and just outside of the park. Many places are seasonal so your options will be highest during the summer months. Like most national park venues, prices can be high and the quality is variable. It's recommended that you pack your own food and plan to picnic.

Is Guadalajara or Yellowstone National Park Better for Nightlife?

Guadalajara
Yellowstone National Park

Guadalajara is well known for its evening party scene. However, Yellowstone National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Guadalajara is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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.

Yellowstone National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Guadalajara or Yellowstone National Park Better for Resorts?

Guadalajara
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is great for its luxury resorts. However, Guadalajara is not a resort destination.

Yellowstone National Park is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. It is a large national park, and there are several impressive lodges nearby. Reservations are recommended well in advance. Within the park, Old Faithful Inn, Roosevelt Lodge, Lake Yellowstone Hotel, and Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel are all nice options.

Guadalajara is not a resort destination.


Is Guadalajara or Yellowstone National Park Better for its Old Town?

Guadalajara
Yellowstone National Park

Guadalajara is well known for its historic old town charm. However, Yellowstone National Park does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting 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.

Yellowstone National Park does not have a historic old town.

Is Guadalajara or Yellowstone National Park Better for Hiking?

Guadalajara
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is an amazing national park to visit for hiking. However, Guadalajara is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Yellowstone National Park draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. The park is huge, and there are countless hikes throughout. From short strolls to lengthy endeavors, there really is something for everyone. If you want to see the geysers, some of the best hikes are Grand Prismatic Overlook Trail, the Upper Geyser Basin and Old Faithful Observation Point Loop, and the Lone Star Geyser Trail. For waterfalls you can check out Brink of the Lower Falls Trail, the North Rim Trail, and Fairy Falls Trail.

Guadalajara is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Guadalajara or Yellowstone National Park?

Guadalajara
Yellowstone National Park

Guadalajara is well known for its shopping areas. However, Yellowstone National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity 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.

Yellowstone National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Guadalajara or Yellowstone National Park Better for Families?

Guadalajara
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park 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 Yellowstone National Park. Kids who enjoy the outdoors and exploring new environments will appreciate a visit to this park. The geysers are fascinating for everyone and the waterfalls are breathtaking. There are ranger shows and other activities that are great for kids as well. Make sure you stop by the Visitor's Centers.

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 Yellowstone National Park Better for Couples?

Guadalajara
Yellowstone National Park

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

Yellowstone National Park is a great national park if you're traveling as a couple. This park is a beautiful and romantic destination for couples who enjoy the outdoors. There are world-renowned hikes and breathtaking views. There are also lodges in the area that make for a romantic stay.

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 Yellowstone National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Guadalajara
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is an amazing national park to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Guadalajara is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Yellowstone National Park, as it is a very popular national park for budget travelers. Backpackers will appreciate the campgrounds and affordable facilities that are found around the park. Reservations are recommended well in advance, particularly if you're hoping to stay inside the park.

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


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

Guadalajara
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone 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 Yellowstone National Park. There is no public transportation service available in the park. There are private tour options available.

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 Yellowstone National Park a more walkable city?

Guadalajara
Yellowstone National Park

Guadalajara is well known for its ease of walking around. However, Yellowstone National Park is not particularly known 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.

Yellowstone National Park is not a very walkable city. This is among the largest national parks and a car is an absolute must if you hope to experience the different landscapes.

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

Should I spend more time in Yellowstone National Park or Guadalajara?

How long in Guadalajara or Yellowstone National Park?

Both Guadalajara and Yellowstone National Park have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Yellowstone National Park than in Guadalajara. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Guadalajara, and 5-7 days is enough time in Yellowstone National Park.

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

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


  • How many days in Guadalajara or Yellowstone National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Guadalajara 2-3 
    Yellowstone National Park 5-7

One day in Guadalajara or Yellowstone National Park?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the cultural city of Guadalajara. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the vast national park of Yellowstone National Park. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Most people visit for the hiking. 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 Yellowstone National Park?

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Guadalajara. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the vast destination of Yellowstone National Park. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This national park 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 Yellowstone National Park?

Guadalajara is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. It offers something for everyone.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the popular national park of Yellowstone National Park. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Yellowstone National Park?

Guadalajara is a popular choice for travelers. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the destination of Yellowstone National Park. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people visit for the hiking. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this national park.


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 Los Angeles, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City.


Which place is cheaper, Yellowstone 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 Yellowstone National Park is $147. 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 Yellowstone National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Guadalajara $42
    Yellowstone National Park $74
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Guadalajara $84
    Yellowstone National Park $148
Compare Hotels in Guadalajara and Yellowstone National Park

Looking for a hotel in Guadalajara or Yellowstone 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 Yellowstone 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 and Yellowstone National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Guadalajara $39
    Yellowstone National Park $37

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Guadalajara

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

  • Airport Transfer to Guadalajara Hotels: $119
  • Airport-Chapala/Ajijic Transfer: $229
  • Guadalajara Airport (GDL) to Guadalajara hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $49
  • Guadalajara Airport (GDL) to Guadalajara hotels - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $98
  • Guadalajara Airport (GDL) to Tequila - Arrival Private Transfer: $38
  • Guadalajara Airport (GDL): Transfer to Guadalajara hotels: $174
  • Guadalajara Airport(GDL) to Tequila - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $76
  • Guadalajara hotels to Guadalajara Airport (GDL) - Departure Private Transfer: $49
  • Guadalajara to Tequila - Private Transfer with English-speaking driver: $98
  • Airport to City Transfer: $151
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Airport to Guadalajara, Chalapa & Tequila Hotels: $63
  • Private Transfer from Guadalajara Airport(GDL) to Manzanillo Port: $76

Is it cheaper to fly into Guadalajara or Yellowstone National Park?

Prices for flights to both Yellowstone 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
    Yellowstone National Park $46

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
    Yellowstone National Park $34

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

Tours and Activities in Yellowstone National Park

Here are a few actual costs in Yellowstone National Park for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • West Thumb Geysers Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour: $9.99
  • 5-Day Winter Yellowstone Wildlife Tour: $3,349
  • 6-Mile Geyser Hiking Tour in Yellowstone with Lunch: $182
  • E-Bike Tours in Yellowstone National Park: $200
  • Early Morning Guided Kayak Tour: $125
  • Full-Day Guided Yellowstone Day Tour: $269
  • Grand Prismatic Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour: $9.99
  • Lake Yellowstone Half Day Kayak Tours Past Geothermal Features : $135
  • Lamar Valley Safari Hiking Tour with Lunch: $182
  • Self-Guided Grand Teton National Park Driving Tour: $8.99
  • Small-Group Sunset Kayaking Tour on Lake Yellowstone : $150
  • Yellowstone 3-day Tour Round-trip From Salt Lake City: $1,088

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Guadalajara $18
    Yellowstone 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:

  • 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 Yellowstone National Park, we can see that Yellowstone National Park 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 Yellowstone National Park would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Yellowstone National Park 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 Yellowstone National Park Expensive?.


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