We've been considering Guadalajara and Morelia for a week-long vacation in February. Beside the difference in size, what are the pros and cons of each city? Which one has more to see? Which one is easier to get around in? How is the selection of day-trips from each?

We like cities with plenty of atmosphere that can be explored on foot and have plenty of restaurants frequented by locals, interesting stores, plazas, historic architecture, etc. Museums are a plus, but not the main purpose of our visit. During our previous visits to Mexico, we loved Guanajuato, Oaxaca, Taxco, and others, but we also enjoyed the bustle and diversity of Mexico City.

Thanks in advance for your advice!

On our last (first) trip to Mexico we spent time in both cities. We were in Morelia just prior to Christmas and absolutely loved it a really fun place. I don't recall any day trips as we were only there for 3 days but I do recall the Monarch butterfly tours being a big thing (presumably seasonal?) Lots to see in the town , the library is amazing and we also had a great time at a tango show in the theatre there. I would be very happy to return. Some photos and details of our time there in our blog @ https://accidentalnomads.com/category/mexico/

We spent the Christmas holidays in Guadalajara and frankly we were less than impressed. Possibly this was because it was over the holiday period and for a couple of days we really struggled to find place open. We both agreed that we wished we had stayed in Morelia but, as I say, our judgement may have been coloured by the quietness of the place over the holiday season.

A week could be too long just for Morelia . If you wanted two centres (or possibly even a long day trip from Morelia) I would take a look at Patzcuarao. An amazing town which were really enjoyed , Again there is a post about the town in or blog. There is a ring of village around Patzcuaro that you can visit by bus. A boat trip out on the lake to Isla Janito was great fun, though though the town itself felt very deprived and run down. We stayed in a wonderful hotel right on the main square in Patzcuaro.

Like you, we loved Oaxaca and Guanjuato and plan on revisiting both when we return to Mexico next year, so, as our tastes seem similar , I imagine you will feel the same about Morelia and Patzcuaro. I dont want to put you off Guadalajara but it wasn't for us.

Agree with crellston. Guadalajara probably was our least favorite Big City in Mexico. We did days trips to Ajijic & Chapala, which were uninspiring. Mazamitla might be too far (3 hours) for a day trip. Tequila is popular but we've not been. In the city, Tlaquepaque was OK. On the other hand Morelia is one of the prettiest cities in Mexico. You could, as suggested, split time with Pátzcuaro. That would make day trips to Uruapan (waterfalls & national park), Santa clara del cobre (amazing copper work) & Quiroga (carnitas) easier. But those could be done from Morelia as well. Cuitzeo & its convent might be of interest.

Thank you so much for your thorough responses, Crellston and BaldOne! I appreciate your input, which made it so much easier for us to decide.