A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Guadalajara vs. Roswell, New Mexico for Attractions, Food, Backpackers, and Families

Should you visit Guadalajara or Roswell, New Mexico?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Guadalajara or Roswell, New Mexico, 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 historical, vibrant, and cultural city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums. See Guadalajara travel costs.

Roswell, New Mexico

Roswell, New Mexico is a infamous, quirky, and mysterious town. It's also popular because of the food and museums. See Roswell, New Mexico travel costs.

Guadalajara and Roswell, New Mexico: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • 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
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Guadalajara or Roswell, New Mexico?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Guadalajara. Although Guadalajara and Roswell, New Mexico are both popular with visitors, Guadalajara has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Guadalajara is popular for its mariachi music, tequila, and many festivals. It is also home to the Guadalajara Cathedral. Roswell, New Mexico is popular for being the site of an alleged UFO crash.

How is Guadalajara different from Roswell, New Mexico?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Roswell, New Mexico 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 Roswell, New Mexico?

Guadalajara
Roswell, New Mexico

Guadalajara is a very popular place for its museums and history. Also, Roswell, New Mexico is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Roswell, New Mexico. Most people stop in town specifically for the International UFO Museum and Research Center. It has a lot of information on the 1947 Roswell Crash and other supposed UFO incidents. Other museums in town include the Roswell UFO Spacewalk, the Roswell Museum, and the Anderson Museum of Contemporary Art.


Is the Food Better in Guadalajara or Roswell, New Mexico? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Guadalajara
Roswell, New Mexico

Guadalajara is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Roswell, New Mexico is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Guadalajara has a huge number of terrific 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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Roswell, New Mexico area. It's a good place to grab lunch as there are many casual restaurants that serve everything from burgers to tacos or other Mexican dishes.

Is Guadalajara or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Nightlife?

Guadalajara
Roswell, New Mexico

Guadalajara is a very popular place for nightlife and partying. However, Roswell, New Mexico is lacking in good options for its evening party scene.

Guadalajara has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Roswell, New Mexico. There's no real nightlife scene and many visitors stop over in route somewhere else.

Is Guadalajara or Roswell, New Mexico Better for its Old Town?

Guadalajara
Roswell, New Mexico

Guadalajara is a very popular place for its old town. However, Roswell, New Mexico 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.

Roswell, New Mexico does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Guadalajara or Roswell, New Mexico?

Guadalajara
Roswell, New Mexico

Guadalajara is a very popular place for its shopping opportunities. However, Roswell, New Mexico is lacking in good options for its shopping areas.

Guadalajara is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Roswell, New Mexico has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. You'll find the typical suburban chains where you can pick up essentials or food while you're in town.

Is Guadalajara or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Families?

Guadalajara
Roswell, New Mexico

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

Roswell, New Mexico offers lots of family activities. Kids who enjoy a mystery will appreciate a visit to the International UFO Museum and Research Center. There's also the Spring River Park and Zoo which has native animals and a carousel.

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 Roswell, New Mexico Better for Couples?

Guadalajara
Roswell, New Mexico

Guadalajara is a good destination for its romantic activities. However, Roswell, New Mexico is lacking in good options for couples.

Guadalajara makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's filled with nice architecture, a vibrant nightlife scene, and great urban parks, making it a nice and romantic destination for couples.

Roswell, New Mexico is not always the best place to visit for a couple. It's a bit outside the box as far as destinations go, so couples who enjoy the weird and quirky will enjoy a stop here.


Is Guadalajara or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Guadalajara
Roswell, New Mexico

Guadalajara is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Roswell, New Mexico is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Guadalajara. There are plenty of hostels and cheap hotels around town.

Roswell, New Mexico is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Most people pass through in route to other destinations, and backpackers are no different.

Is Guadalajara or Roswell, New Mexico Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Guadalajara
Roswell, New Mexico

Guadalajara and Roswell, New Mexico both offer decent 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 Roswell, New Mexico. There are buses, but it's easier to have your own car.

Is Guadalajara or Roswell, New Mexico a more walkable city?

Guadalajara
Roswell, New Mexico

Guadalajara is a very popular place for its high level of walkability. Also, Roswell, New Mexico is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

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

Roswell, New Mexico is a somewhat walkable city. The historic district is compact and walkable.


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

Should I spend more time in Roswell, New Mexico or Guadalajara?

How long in Guadalajara or Roswell, New Mexico?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Guadalajara or Roswell, New Mexico to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Guadalajara than Roswell, New Mexico 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 Roswell, New Mexico.

Couples should spend more time in Guadalajara than Roswell, New Mexico. 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 Roswell, New Mexico 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 Roswell, New Mexico? Ideal Length of Stay
    Guadalajara 2-3 
    Roswell, New Mexico 1-2

One day in Guadalajara or Roswell, New Mexico?

In Guadalajara, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Visitors enjoy the food and museums when visiting the mysterious town of Roswell, New Mexico. 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 Roswell, New Mexico?

Many people visit Guadalajara for a weekend. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

Visitors enjoy the museums and food when visiting the mysterious destination of Roswell, New Mexico. 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 Roswell, New Mexico?

The destination of Guadalajara offers shopping and museums. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

The infamous town of Roswell, New Mexico offers food 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 Roswell, New Mexico?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Guadalajara. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers something for everyone. 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.

Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Roswell, New Mexico. 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 Northern Lights Tours in Alaska, and The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Roswell, New Mexico 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
    Roswell, New Mexico Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Guadalajara $138
    Roswell, New Mexico $148

The average daily cost (per person) in Guadalajara is $138, while the average daily cost in Roswell, New Mexico is $148. 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 Roswell, New Mexico in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Guadalajara $38
    Roswell, New Mexico $46
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Guadalajara $76
    Roswell, New Mexico $92
Compare Hotels in Guadalajara and Roswell, New Mexico

Looking for a hotel in Guadalajara or Roswell, New Mexico? 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 Roswell, New Mexico


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 Roswell, New Mexico Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Guadalajara $35
    Roswell, New Mexico $38

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Guadalajara

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

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Guadalajara or Roswell, New Mexico?

Prices for flights to both Roswell, New Mexico 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
    Roswell, New Mexico $76

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
    Roswell, New Mexico $33

Tours and Activities in Guadalajara

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

  • Walking Tour Experience in Ajijic Mexico: $50
  • 3 Hours Private Tour Guide in Guadalajara, you choose!: $36
  • A unique tour! Visiting Hacienda Casa herradura From Guadalajara: $120
  • Architecture of Luis Barragan Walking Tour with Street Food: $70
  • Bar Tour of the Coolest Quarter of Guadalajara: $17
  • Cantaritos and Tequila Factory Tour: $89
  • Chapala Ajijic Area Tour from Guadalajara: $40
  • Chapala Lake & Ajijic Tour with "Tres Potrillos Ranch": $65
  • Chapala and Ajijic Private Full-Day Tour: $128
  • Charreria heritage tour be a charro for a day: $50
  • City Tour Downtown Guadalajara Historical and Cultural Walking Tour: $79
  • City tour in Guadalajara and Tlaquepaque: $90

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Guadalajara $16
    Roswell, New Mexico $9.29

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 comparing the travel costs between Guadalajara and Roswell, New Mexico, we can see that Roswell, New Mexico is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Guadalajara Expensive? and Is Roswell, New Mexico Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Guadalajara or Roswell, New Mexico?

Guadalajara has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Roswell, New Mexico. When comparing the sizes of Guadalajara and Roswell, New Mexico, 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.

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