A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Guadalajara vs. Honolulu for Attractions, Families, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Guadalajara or Honolulu?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Guadalajara or Honolulu, 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 museums, nightlife, and food. See Guadalajara travel costs.

Honolulu

Honolulu is a multi-cultural, energetic, and vibrant city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. With stunning beauty, Honolulu attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Honolulu travel costs.

Guadalajara and Honolulu: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Guadalajara or Honolulu?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Honolulu than Guadalajara. While Guadalajara is larger than Honolulu, Honolulu has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Honolulu is better known for its museums and attractions, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Guadalajara is more popular for its historical sights. Honolulu is more touristy than Guadalajara and is known for its multicultural atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and iconic hikes. Also, Honolulu is famous for Pearl Harbor. Guadalajara is well known for its mariachi music, tequila, and many festivals.

How is Guadalajara different from Honolulu?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Honolulu 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, Honolulu has many famous sights for visitors. For many visitors, a trip to Pearl Harbor is one of the most memorable experiences while they're in Hawaii. It's still an active naval base, but it's also a National Historic Landmark that memorializes that historic day in 1941. There are many sights that reflect on the past and you can also pick up tours to the USS Arizona at the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center. Other cultural sights around Honolulu include the Polynesian Cultural Center, the Shangri-La Museum, and Iolani Palace.

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 the Food Better in Guadalajara or Honolulu? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Guadalajara and Honolulu can be difficult as they are each high quality 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, Honolulu makes for a great culinary experience. The city offers a mix of internationally recognized chain restaurants as well as local mom and pop shops. You'll find a mix of cuisines that reflect the city's multicultural personality. There is plenty of Japanese food around town as well as local Hawaiian dishes. Spam is incorporated into many dishes, but you'll also find seafood and tropical fruits.

Is Guadalajara or Honolulu Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is high quality in both Guadalajara and Honolulu.

Many people head to Guadalajara for the nightlife scene. 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.

Honolulu has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The city has the most active nightlife scene on all of the Hawaiian islands. If you're looking for a party, then this is the place to stay. You'll find many bars, clubs, and entertainment options around town, as well as beach parties and festivals. For tourists, the highest concentration of nightlife venues is around Waikiki, which is also where you'll find the most hotels.

Is Guadalajara or Honolulu Better for Resorts?

Honolulu is an amazing city to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Guadalajara is not a resort destination.

Honolulu offers an unforgettable resort vacation. The highest concentration of resorts are around Waikiki where you'll find all of the major names such as the Hilton, Marriott, and the Hyatt.

Guadalajara is not a resort destination.

Is Guadalajara or Honolulu Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Honolulu is great for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Guadalajara is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors go to Honolulu to enjoy scuba diving and snorkeling. There are great beaches around the island and near the city where you can enjoy diving and snorkeling. You'll find coral and tropical fish that make for a wonderful experience.

Guadalajara is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Guadalajara or Honolulu Better for Beaches?

Honolulu is an amazing city to visit for the beach. However, Guadalajara is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Honolulu are among the best in the world. Nearby there are countless beach destinations such as the famed Waikiki Beach. There are also more local and lesser known stretches of sand where you can escape the tourist crowds. Other great beaches in the area include Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve, Magic Island, and Lanikai Beach.

Guadalajara is not a beach destination.

Is Guadalajara or Honolulu Better for its Old Town?

Guadalajara is great for its historic old town. However, Honolulu 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.

Honolulu does not have a historic old town.

Is Guadalajara or Honolulu Better for Hiking?

Honolulu is an amazing city to visit for hiking. However, Guadalajara is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Honolulu draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. Both in the city and nearby you'll find world famous hiking trails that offer spectacular views and breathtaking landscapes. There are many natural landmarks and dramatic mountains. Moanalua Valley Trail, also known as the Stairway to Heaven, is one of the top hiking trails in the area. Other popular options include Kuliouou Ridge Trail and Diamond Head Crater Hike.

Guadalajara is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Guadalajara or Honolulu?

If you're looking to go shopping, Guadalajara and Honolulu both offer plenty of high quality 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.

Honolulu is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The city has some of the best shopping opportunities in the Hawaiian islands. There are brand name fashion outlets, large shopping malls, and boutique local vendors. Many of the malls are open air and let you enjoy the Hawaiian climate while you browse. Downtown Honolulu and Waikiki both have many shopping opportunities.

Is Guadalajara or Honolulu More Beautiful?

Honolulu is great for its scenery and beauty. However, Guadalajara is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Honolulu attracts visitors from all around. It's beautiful beaches and scenic viewpoints make this a beautiful city. It also has a mix of cultures and dynamic neighborhoods.

Guadalajara is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Guadalajara or Honolulu Better for Families?

Honolulu is an amazing city to visit for its kid-friendly activities. However, Guadalajara is not a good destination for its family-friendly activities.

Honolulu is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. There are many kid-friendly beaches, hiking trails, and activities that appeal to families. While Waikiki Beach can get crowded, it is also a great option for kids. Kids will also enjoy snorkeling with sea turtles, swimming with dolphins, or taking surfing lessons. For a cold treat, everyone can enjoy shave ice and the perfect way to wrap up a day is a fun luau.

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 Honolulu Better for Couples?

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

Honolulu has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Romantic resorts, beautiful beaches, and stunning hikes make this a top honeymoon destination for couples. The city has an energy that is unlike anywhere else on the Hawaiian islands, but there are also nature trails and outdoor adventures nearby. There are a diversity of restaurants that highlight both local and international cuisines, and a nightlife scene that will keep you entertained.

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 Honolulu Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Guadalajara and Honolulu 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 Honolulu. This is one of the easier places to stay in Hawaii as a backpacker. There are a handful of hostels, and public transit is available so having a car isn't as crucial as it is everywhere else.

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

Honolulu is a nice place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Guadalajara is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Honolulu offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. TheBus is the public bus system through the city and elsewhere on Oahu.

Public transit is generally limited in Guadalajara. There's a bus system as well as a metro system with two lines, which are primarily used by commuters.

Is Guadalajara or Honolulu a more walkable city?

Guadalajara and Honolulu are high quality when it comes to walkability.

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

Honolulu is very walkable. The most walkable areas are around downtown Honolulu and in Waikiki.

For even more information, also check out Is Guadalajara Worth Visiting? and Is Honolulu Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Honolulu or Guadalajara?

How long in Guadalajara or Honolulu?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Honolulu 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 Honolulu.

One day in Guadalajara or Honolulu?

The city of Guadalajara offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Honolulu is a energetic city where you can fill many days. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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 Honolulu?

Guadalajara is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Guadalajara, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Honolulu is a energetic big city where you can fill many days. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Honolulu?

Guadalajara is a popular choice for travelers. 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 entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Honolulu is a vibrant city where you can fill many days. 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 Honolulu?

Guadalajara is a great place to explore. 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. This city offers something for everyone.

Honolulu 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. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City, and The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City.

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

Which is Bigger, Guadalajara or Honolulu?

Guadalajara has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Honolulu. When comparing the sizes of Guadalajara and Honolulu, 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.