A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers La Paz vs. Lancaster for Attractions, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit La Paz or Lancaster?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between La Paz and Lancaster can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

La Paz

La Paz is a authentic, cultural, and beautiful city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Lancaster

Lancaster is a traditional, picturesque, and scenic town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food.

La Paz and Lancaster: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in La Paz or Lancaster?

Travelers will usually find more to do in La Paz than Lancaster, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. La Paz is more popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Lancaster is known for its impressive beauty. La Paz is more touristy than Lancaster and is popular for its beautiful beaches, fascinating cultural setting, and authentic local atmosphere. It is also home to Balandra Beach. Lancaster is popular for its history and long running Amish community.

How is La Paz different from Lancaster?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Lancaster and La Paz. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in La Paz or Lancaster?

La Paz
Lancaster

Plenty of people visit the high quality sights and museums in both La Paz and Lancaster.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into La Paz. Sights and landmarks around town include La Paz Cathedral, the Museo de Antropología e Historia de Baja California Sur, the the Museo de Arte de Baja California Sur, and Teatro Juarez.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Lancaster. Filled with history and local culture, there are many educational opportunities in the area where you can learn about Amish traditions. The Amish Village has tours and unique experiences. The town also has James Buchanan's Wheatland, the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania, the National Toy Train Museum, the Ephrata Cloister, and the National Watch & Clock Museum, among many others.


Is the Food Better in La Paz or Lancaster? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

La Paz
Lancaster

La Paz is a great city for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Lancaster is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

La Paz has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. As the capital of Baja California Sur, you'll find many local restaurants that serve traditional and authentic Mexican cuisine. The recipes include seafood and local produce. You'll find everything from food stalls to high end restaurants around town.

Lancaster offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. You can sample authentic Pennsylvania Dutch dishes at one of the Amish restaurants in the area. Many places serve food family-style and dishes include chicken pot pie, ham balls, and pork and sauerkraut. Whoopie pies also originated in the area.

Is La Paz or Lancaster Better for Nightlife?

La Paz
Lancaster

La Paz is a nice place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Lancaster is not known for nightlife.

If you're looking for night time activities La Paz has a few options to choose from. There are many bars and restaurants around the Malecón.

Most people don't head to Lancaster specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. It's a small town, but you'll still find local pubs and cozy bars where you can enjoy a drink in a laid back atmosphere.

Is La Paz or Lancaster Better for Resorts?

La Paz
Lancaster

La Paz is a nice place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Lancaster is not a resort destination.

La Paz has a few great resort options. There are a number of hotels and resorts around town that make for a nice vacation.

Lancaster is not a resort destination.


Is La Paz or Lancaster Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

La Paz
Lancaster

La Paz is a great city for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Lancaster is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors go to La Paz to enjoy scuba diving and snorkeling. There are organized diving and snorkeling excursions available around town. It's location by the Sea of Cortez makes diving a world class experience.

Lancaster is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is La Paz or Lancaster Better for Beaches?

La Paz
Lancaster

La Paz is an amazing city to visit for the beach. However, Lancaster is not a beach destination.

The beaches in La Paz are among the best in the world. The beaches in the area are the main draw, and you'll find beaches that are family-friendly, romantic, or full of amenities. Some consider the beaches in the area among the best in Mexico.

Lancaster is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in La Paz or Lancaster?

La Paz
Lancaster

Both La Paz and Lancaster are high quality shopping destinations.

La Paz is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Local boutiques, souvenir shops, and art galleries all make for interesting shopping opportunities.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Lancaster. Many visitors pick up hand-crafted Amish items while they're in town. Furniture and Amish quilts are particularly popular. Farmers markets and antique shopping are both unique in the area and there are also art galleries and several outlet stores that you can visit.


Is La Paz or Lancaster Better for Families?

La Paz
Lancaster

Both La Paz and Lancaster are high quality to visit with kids.

La Paz is a very kid-friendly city. Older kids will enjoy swimming with whale sharks, whale watching, and experiencing the region's wildlife. There are also many beaches in the area where kids can play.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Lancaster. In you area you'll find farms and petting zoos, amusement parks, and train rides. They can learn about a unique lifestyle at the Amish Experience or soak up the local beauty and farmland in the surrounding countryside.

Is La Paz or Lancaster Better for Couples?

La Paz
Lancaster

Lancaster is notable for its romantic activities. Also, La Paz is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Lancaster is a very popular place to visit for couples. This region is known for it's local beauty and serene farmland, making it a relaxing and peaceful destination for couples. There are walking trails, outdoor activities, buggy rides, and a variety of dining experiences. You can also stay at a bed and breakfast or local inn.

La Paz is a good city for couples to visit. Couples will enjoy walking along the beach promenade known as Malecon. There are also beaches and amazing animal experiences such as whale watching or dolphin viewing.

Is La Paz or Lancaster Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

La Paz
Lancaster

La Paz is a great city for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Lancaster is not known for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit La Paz. The city offers an authentic experience and hostels that make it a budget-friendly option for backpackers.

Lancaster is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Although it's often overlooked by backpackers, the region offers a unique cultural experience.


Is La Paz or Lancaster Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

La Paz
Lancaster

La Paz is a nice place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Lancaster is not known for its public transit.

While La Paz offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's a cheap local bus system around town.

Public transit is generally limited in Lancaster. The city has buses and several transportation options, but once you're outside of the urban core, your options are limited.

Is La Paz or Lancaster a more walkable city?

La Paz
Lancaster

La Paz is a great city for its ease of walking around. However, Lancaster is not known for its walkability.

La Paz is a very walkable destination. The city is very walkable.

Lancaster is generally not very walkable. While the city itself has walkable areas, most visitors want to get out and explore the countryside, which requires a car.

For even more information, also check out Is La Paz Worth Visiting? and Is Lancaster Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Lancaster or La Paz?

How long in La Paz or Lancaster?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both La Paz and Lancaster. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in La Paz than in Lancaster. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for La Paz, and 2-3 days is enough time in Lancaster.

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

Couples should spend more time in La Paz than Lancaster. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in La Paz that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in La Paz than Lancaster 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 La Paz.


  • How many days in La Paz or Lancaster? Ideal Length of Stay
    La Paz 2-4 
    Lancaster 2-3

One day in La Paz or Lancaster?

You'll find nightlife and food around the city of La Paz. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Lancaster. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.


A weekend in La Paz or Lancaster?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the authentic destination of La Paz. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Lancaster is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in La Paz or Lancaster?

Travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the authentic city of La Paz. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a great beach destination, too. Most people head to the area for the beaches. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lancaster. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in La Paz or Lancaster?

La Paz is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the scenic destination of Lancaster. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Mexico, The Best Tours for Seniors to Mexico, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Lancaster or La Paz?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in La Paz is $118, while the average daily cost in Lancaster is $183. 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 La Paz and Lancaster in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    La Paz $52
    Lancaster $91
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    La Paz $104
    Lancaster $182
Compare Hotels in La Paz and Lancaster

Looking for a hotel in La Paz or Lancaster? 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 La Paz


Hotels in Lancaster


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: La Paz Hotel Prices and Lancaster Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    La Paz $22
    Lancaster $69

Hired Cars and Shuttles in La Paz

Some specific examples of transportation prices in La Paz:

  • La Paz Airport: Private Roundtrip Transfer to La Ventan: $259
  • Private Transfer from La Paz to Cabo San Lucas: $241
  • La Paz Int. Airport (LAP): Private Transfer to La Paz hotels: $174
  • La Paz Airport to Costa Baja Private Roundtrip Transfer: $89
  • Roundtrip Transfer to La Paz International Airport: $73
  • La Paz International Airport (LAP) to La Paz hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $53

Is it cheaper to fly into La Paz or Lancaster?

Prices for flights to both Lancaster and La Paz 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
    La Paz $38
    Lancaster $53

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in La Paz

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in La Paz.

  • 4 Hours of Guided La Paz Street Food Tour: $82

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Lancaster

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

  • International Food Tour Lancaster, Pennsylvania: $62
  • Red Rose Walking Food Tour in Lancaster: $65

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    La Paz $13
    Lancaster $19

Tours and Activities in La Paz

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for La Paz are as follows:

  • 1 Day Espiritu Santo Island Wonders, Sea Lions and Paddleboard Adventure : $249
  • Adventure to Espiritu Santo Island: Snorkel with Sea Lions and Beach: $133
  • Balandra & San Rafaelito: Sightseeing & Snorkelling: $135
  • Balandra Beach and City Tour: $128
  • Balandra Snorkel & Sea Lion Adventure: $135
  • Can-Am X3 Turbo Adventure: Cabo Desert Trails & Beach Ride: $291
  • City Tour & Beaches from La Paz: $91
  • Cruise Date Delight! Swim with Sea Lions! Apr-02: $186
  • Espíritu Santo Island snorkel and sightseeing tour on Small Group: $169
  • Espiritu Santo Island Day Tour: $170
  • Espiritu Santo Island Snorkel & Sea Lion Adventure: $145
  • Espiritu Santo Island Tour: $139

Tours and Activities in Lancaster

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

  • Guided Tour of the 1792 Johannes Mueller House: $12
  • 45-Minute Private Guided Historic Walking Tour in Lititz: $12
  • Guided Ghost Tour of Lititz: $12
  • Historic Columbia, PA: Guided Tour of the Bank Museum: $14
  • Lancaster Scavenger Hunt Adventure: $24
  • Evening Ghost Tour by Candlelight: $25
  • Lititz Whiskey and History Tour : $25
  • Lancaster Puzzling Adventure: $35
  • Premium Amish Country Tour including Amish Farm and House: $36
  • Amish Experience SuperSaver Package: $47
  • Lancaster History and Breakfast Walking Tour: $57
  • Downtown & Amish Country Authentic Lancaster Tour: $70

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    La Paz $12
    Lancaster $11

Sample the Local Flavors in Lancaster

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

  • Guided Brewery Walking Tour in Lancaster City: $79
  • Lancaster City: The Ultimate Walking Craft Brewery Tour: $79


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between La Paz and Lancaster, we can see that Lancaster is more expensive. And not only is La Paz much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to La Paz would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in La Paz 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 Lancaster would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Lancaster than you might in La Paz.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is La Paz Expensive? and Is Lancaster Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, La Paz or Lancaster?

La Paz has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Lancaster. When comparing the sizes of La Paz and Lancaster, 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.


When is the best time to visit La Paz or Lancaster?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit La Paz or Lancaster in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to La Paz as well as Lancaster. Most visitors come to La Paz for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Lancaster because of the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, La Paz is a little warmer than Lancaster. Typically, the summer temperatures in La Paz in July average around 30°C (86°F), and Lancaster averages at about 77°F (25°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Lancaster. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in La Paz this time of the year. In the summer, La Paz often gets less sunshine than Lancaster. La Paz gets 287 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lancaster receives 310 hours of full sun.

La Paz usually gets less rain in July than Lancaster. La Paz gets 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Lancaster receives 3.6 inches (91 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    La Paz 30°C (86°F) 
    Lancaster 77°F (25°C)

Should I visit La Paz or Lancaster in the Autumn?

Both Lancaster and La Paz are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to La Paz because of the shopping scene. Also, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Lancaster this time of year.

In October, La Paz is generally much warmer than Lancaster. Daily temperatures in La Paz average around 27°C (80°F), and Lancaster fluctuates around 56°F (13°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in La Paz. La Paz usually receives more sunshine than Lancaster during autumn. La Paz gets 272 hours of sunny skies, while Lancaster receives 194 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, La Paz usually receives less rain than Lancaster. La Paz gets 13 mm (0.5 in) of rain, while Lancaster receives 2.9 inches (75 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    La Paz 27°C (80°F) 
    Lancaster 56°F (13°C)

Should I visit La Paz or Lancaster in the Winter?

Both Lancaster and La Paz during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to La Paz this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Lancaster for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Lancaster. La Paz is much warmer than Lancaster in the winter. The daily temperature in La Paz averages around 18°C (65°F) in January, and Lancaster fluctuates around 30°F (-1°C).

It's quite sunny in La Paz. In the winter, La Paz often gets more sunshine than Lancaster. La Paz gets 200 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lancaster receives 153 hours of full sun.

La Paz usually gets less rain in January than Lancaster. La Paz gets 11 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Lancaster receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    La Paz 18°C (65°F) 
    Lancaster 30°F (-1°C)

Should I visit La Paz or Lancaster in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both La Paz and Lancaster. Many travelers come to La Paz for the beaches. Furthermore, many visitors come to Lancaster in the spring for the natural beauty.

In the spring, La Paz is much warmer than Lancaster. Typically, the spring temperatures in La Paz in April average around 23°C (73°F), and Lancaster averages at about 53°F (12°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Lancaster this time of the year. In La Paz, it's very sunny this time of the year. La Paz usually receives more sunshine than Lancaster during spring. La Paz gets 292 hours of sunny skies, while Lancaster receives 237 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, La Paz usually receives less rain than Lancaster. La Paz gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Lancaster receives 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    La Paz 23°C (73°F) 
    Lancaster 53°F (12°C)

Typical Weather for Lancaster and La Paz

La Paz Lancaster
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 18°C (65°F) 11 mm (0.4 in) 30°F (-1°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Feb 19°C (66°F) 5 mm (0.2 in) 33°F (0°C) 2.9 inches (75 mm)
Mar 20°C (69°F) 2 mm (0.1 in) 42°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm)
Apr 23°C (73°F) 1 mm (0 in) 53°F (12°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
May 25°C (77°F) 1 mm (0 in) 63°F (17°C) 4.3 inches (108 mm)
Jun 27°C (81°F) 1 mm (0 in) 72°F (22°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm)
Jul 30°C (86°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 77°F (25°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Aug 30°C (87°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 75°F (24°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Sep 30°C (85°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 68°F (20°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Oct 27°C (80°F) 13 mm (0.5 in) 56°F (13°C) 2.9 inches (75 mm)
Nov 23°C (73°F) 5 mm (0.2 in) 46°F (8°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm)
Dec 20°C (67°F) 21 mm (0.8 in) 35°F (2°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)