A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Guadalajara vs. Lewisburg for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Old Town

Should you visit Guadalajara or Lewisburg?

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

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

Lewisburg

Lewisburg is a historical, quaint, and charming town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It's also popular because of the shopping and museums. See Lewisburg travel costs.

Guadalajara and Lewisburg: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Guadalajara or Lewisburg?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Guadalajara than Lewisburg, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Guadalajara is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Lewisburg is more popular for its small town charm. Guadalajara is more touristy than Lewisburg and is popular for its mariachi music, tequila, and many festivals. Also, Guadalajara is famous for the Guadalajara Cathedral. Lewisburg is well known for its historical charm and friendly personality.

How is Guadalajara different from Lewisburg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Guadalajara
Lewisburg

Guadalajara is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Lewisburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

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.

Lewisburg offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are several cultural and historical museums in town as well as a fun children's museum.


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

Guadalajara
Lewisburg

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

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 Lewisburg. There are bistros and cafes as well as all the standard chain restaurants.

Is Guadalajara or Lewisburg Better for Nightlife?

Guadalajara
Lewisburg

Guadalajara is well known for nightlife. However, Lewisburg is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

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.

Lewisburg doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. While there are some bars, most people don't come here for the nightlife.

Is Guadalajara or Lewisburg Better for its Old Town?

Guadalajara
Lewisburg

Guadalajara is well known for its historic old town. Also, Lewisburg is still popular, but not quite as popular for its 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Lewisburg. There are a huge number of historical buildings in the downtown area that contribute to the town's charm and character.


Is the Shopping Better in Guadalajara or Lewisburg?

Guadalajara
Lewisburg

Guadalajara is well known for shopping. Also, Lewisburg is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Lewisburg. There are some quaint local shops that sell local items and unique art works.

Is Guadalajara or Lewisburg Better for Families?

Guadalajara
Lewisburg

Lewisburg is a nice place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. However, Guadalajara is not a good destination for its family-friendly activities.

Lewisburg offers lots of family activities. The Lewisburg Children's Museum is worth checking out, as is Reptiland and the many different indoor and outdoor play areas.

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 Lewisburg Better for Couples?

Guadalajara
Lewisburg

Guadalajara is a popular place for romance. However, Lewisburg is not particularly known for its romantic activities.

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.

Most people don't think of Lewisburg as a couple's destination. There are several quaint inns and beautiful gardens that you can explore. There are also spas and restaurants where you can enjoy a nice meal.


Is Guadalajara or Lewisburg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Guadalajara
Lewisburg

Guadalajara is well known for backpackers. However, Lewisburg is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Lewisburg is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not really on the radar for most backpackers.

Is Guadalajara or Lewisburg Better for Students?

Guadalajara
Lewisburg

Lewisburg is a nice place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Guadalajara is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Lewisburg. Many students enjoy living here while they attend Bucknell University.

Guadalajara is not popular with students.

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

Guadalajara
Lewisburg

Guadalajara and Lewisburg both offer respectable public transit to get you around.

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

Public transit is generally limited in Lewisburg. Public transportation in the area is limited.


Is Guadalajara or Lewisburg a more walkable city?

Guadalajara
Lewisburg

Guadalajara is well known for its walkability. Also, Lewisburg is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Lewisburg is a somewhat walkable place. It's small with a relatively compact downtown.

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

Should I spend more time in Lewisburg or Guadalajara?

How long in Guadalajara or Lewisburg?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Guadalajara or Lewisburg to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Guadalajara than Lewisburg because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Guadalajara, and 1-2 days is enough time in Lewisburg.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Guadalajara than Lewisburg 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 Lewisburg? Ideal Length of Stay
    Guadalajara 2-3 
    Lewisburg 1-2

One day in Guadalajara or Lewisburg?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Guadalajara. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the charming town of Lewisburg. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Guadalajara or Lewisburg?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the cultural destination of Guadalajara. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

Visitors enjoy the museums and shopping when visiting the quaint destination of Lewisburg. This town 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 Lewisburg?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the vibrant city of Guadalajara. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

The historical town of Lewisburg offers shopping and museums. 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 Lewisburg?

Guadalajara is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

Many people enjoy the museums and shopping when visiting Lewisburg. Anyone can find something fun to do here. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage.


Which place is cheaper, Lewisburg or Guadalajara?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Guadalajara Prices
    Mexico Prices
    Lewisburg Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Guadalajara $138
    Lewisburg $161

The average daily cost (per person) in Guadalajara is $138, while the average daily cost in Lewisburg is $161. 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 Lewisburg in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Guadalajara $38
    Lewisburg $70
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Guadalajara $76
    Lewisburg $140
Compare Hotels in Guadalajara and Lewisburg

Looking for a hotel in Guadalajara or Lewisburg? 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 Lewisburg


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 $35
    Lewisburg $53

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Guadalajara

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

  • Guadalajara Airport (GDL) to Guadalajara hotels - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $107
  • Guadalajara Airport Private Transfer to Ajijic & Chapala: $289
  • Guadalajara Airport(GDL) to Tequila - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $202
  • Guadalajara to Tequila - Private Transfer with English-speaking driver: $179
  • Private Airport Transfer to Guadalajara Hotels Safe & Stress-Free: $159
  • Tequila to Guadalajara - Private Transfer with English-speaking driver: $179
  • Tequila to Guadalajara Airport (GDL) - Departure Private Transfer: $101
  • Transfer by car to or from Guadalajara Airport: $35
  • Transfer from International Airport to Tequila Jalisco: $89

Is it cheaper to fly into Guadalajara or Lewisburg?

Prices for flights to both Lewisburg 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 $75
    Lewisburg $59

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Guadalajara

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

  • Private Street Food Tour and City Tour Guadalajara - Best Rated : $44
  • Guadalajara Private Food Tour: $70
  • Authentic Mexican Cooking & Tequila tasting experience-Casa Humo: $108
  • Mexican Cooking Classes and Market Visit in Guadalajara: $195
  • VIP Tequila Night Tour with Dinner and Tasting: $199

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Guadalajara $25
    Lewisburg $18

Tours and Activities in Guadalajara

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

  • Bar Tour of the Coolest Quarter of Guadalajara: $17
  • Great Experience With A Tour Guide With Spark: $21
  • Guadalajara City Center Walking Tour: $25
  • Guadalajara Tour: $27
  • 3 Hours Private Tour Guide in Guadalajara, you choose!: $36
  • Walking Tour Historic Center Guadalajara: $39
  • Lucha Libre Tour at the Arena Coliseo de Guadalajara as a local: $39
  • Chapala Ajijic Area Tour from Guadalajara: $40
  • Tequila Route Experience from Guadalajara: $40
  • Classic Tequila Tour and CANTARITOS EL GÜERO: $41
  • Guadalajara Private Walking Tour: $42
  • History and Murals: Walking Tour Guadalajara: $44

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Guadalajara $16
    Lewisburg $12

Sample the Local Flavors in Guadalajara

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

  • Saturday Night Bar Crawl in Guadalajara Mexico: $25
  • Tequila distillery experience, Jose Cuervo & Tequila Magic Town: $65
  • full day Tequila tour visiting artisanal distillery and downtown.: $95
  • Guided Tour of Guachimontones and Tequila Distillery: $105
  • Full-Day Tour to La Fortaleza Distillery and Cantaritos: $155
  • Private Adventure Day Tour to Tequila and Cazcanes Distillery: $156
  • Private Adventure to El Tequileño Distillery and visit to Tequila: $161
  • Private One Day Adventure Tour in Tequila and La Fortaleza Distillery: $167
  • 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: $211
  • Guachimontones and Tequila Distillery in One Day: $264


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


Which is Bigger, Guadalajara or Lewisburg?

Guadalajara has a larger population, and is about 300 times larger than the population of Lewisburg. When comparing the sizes of Guadalajara and Lewisburg, 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.