A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Brasilia vs. Mazatlan for Attractions, Food, Backpackers, and Nightlife

Should you visit Brasilia or Mazatlan?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Brasilia and Mazatlan can help you decide which place is right for you.

Brasilia

Brasilia is a lively, vibrant, and cultural city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Brasilia travel costs.

Mazatlan

Mazatlan is a authentic, historical, and cultural city. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping. See Mazatlan travel costs.

Brasilia and Mazatlan: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Brasilia or Mazatlan?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Mazatlan than Brasilia. While Brasilia is larger than Mazatlan, Mazatlan has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Mazatlan is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and historical sights, while Brasilia is known for its shopping and big city activities. Mazatlan is more touristy than Brasilia and is known for its historic center, authenticity, and surfing areas. It is also home to the Malecon. Brasilia is popular for its modernist architecture, abundant green space, and planned layout.

How is Brasilia different from Mazatlan?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Brasilia or Mazatlan?

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

Many visitors head to Mazatlan specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. There are colonial buildings around the Centro Historico. You should also check out the Historic Cathedral and the Angela Peralta Theater.

Brasilia is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a variety of museums that highlight the city's rich history, modernist architecture, and diverse culture. Notable museums include the Museu Nacional, showcasing contemporary art, and the Museu de Arte de Brasília (MAB), which focuses on Brazilian art. The Memorial dos Povos Indígenas offers insight into indigenous cultures, while the Museu do Catetinho takes visitors through the early days of the city’s creation.

Is the Food Better in Brasilia or Mazatlan? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Mazatlan is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Brasilia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in Mazatlan is an experience not to be missed. Stewed meats and shrimp are a big part of the cuisine here. Many recipes have a little bit of spice. The restaurants around town are authentic and local, making for a great dining experience.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Brasilia. The city's food scene is diverse, offering a mix of traditional Brazilian dishes and international cuisine. Since it is home to people from all over Brazil, you can find food from many different regions in one place. Popular dishes include Picanha (Brazilian steak), Feijoada (black bean and pork stew), and Tucunaré na Brasa (grilled fish).

Is Brasilia or Mazatlan Better for Nightlife?

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Brasilia and Mazatlan.

Brasilia has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The nightlife scene is more sophisticated and calm compared to other Brazilian capitals. It's not a party city by traditional standards, but it's ideal for those looking to enjoy good food, drinks, and live music in a more relaxed atmosphere. If you're looking for high-energy nightlife, the city might feel quieter, but it's still plenty of fun.

If you're looking for night time activities Mazatlan has a few options to choose from. There are plenty of bars and clubs around town, particularly along the beach. Like anywhere else, remember to stay cautious late at night around town. This is considered to be one of the less safe parts of Mexico.

Is Brasilia or Mazatlan Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Mazatlan is very good for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Brasilia is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Mazatlan. Most of the diving takes place around the Pajaros, Venados and Lobos islands. This is where you'll see the most tropical fish.

Brasilia is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Brasilia or Mazatlan Better for Beaches?

Mazatlan is well known for the beach. However, Brasilia is not a beach destination.

Mazatlan is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. There are many stretches of beach around town. Most notable is the 13 miles that run along Malecon where there's a boardwalk. Surfing is also popular in the area.

Brasilia is not a beach destination.

Is Brasilia or Mazatlan Better for its Old Town?

Mazatlan is well known for its historic old town charm. However, Brasilia does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Mazatlan. It's a historic port city with a charming colonial old town.

Brasilia does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Brasilia or Mazatlan?

Brasilia is well known for its shopping opportunities. Also, Mazatlan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

Brasilia is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. There is a mix of modern malls, local markets, and high-end boutiques. The city is home to several large shopping centers, such as Shopping Iguatemi, ParkShopping, and Conjunto Nacional, which feature a variety of international brands, local shops, and food courts. For more traditional items, the Feira da Torre is a popular open-air market where you can find local crafts, souvenirs, and handmade goods.

Mazatlan has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are local shops, big box stores, and souvenir vendors where you can pick up anything you may need or items to commemorate your trip.

Is Brasilia or Mazatlan Better for Families?

You'll find good kid-friendly activities in either Brasilia or Mazatlan.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Brasilia. While it doesn't have as many theme parks as some of the other large cities in Brazil, there are a number of activities that families can enjoy. There's the Parque da Cidade, where children can ride bikes and play on playgrounds. There's also Nicolândia, a small amusement park with exciting rides. At the Brasília Zoo, kids can see native animals like jaguars, toucans, and capybaras while learning about Brazil's wildlife. The Planetarium of Brasília is a great spot for young space enthusiasts, featuring interactive exhibits and fascinating star shows.

Mazatlan offers lots of family activities. Kids will enjoy the all-inclusive resorts and the waterfront setting. There are also many cultural opportunities such as markets, history, and shows. The food is very kid-friendly as well.

Is Brasilia or Mazatlan Better for Couples?

Both Brasilia and Mazatlan are good destinations to visit as a couple.

Brasilia is a good city for couples to visit. There are sunset boat rides on Paranoá Lake. If you enjoy culture, you can visit the National Museum or admire the stunning architecture of the Cathedral of Brasília. A romantic dinner at a lakeside restaurant in Pontão do Lago Sul is perfect for a night out with delicious food and a relaxing atmosphere. For nature lovers, a peaceful walk or picnic at Jardim Botânico de Brasília provides a lovely escape from the city.

Mazatlan is a nice destination for couples. The resorts are romantic and the beaches are stunning. If you're looking for an idyllic escape that also has culture, authenticity, and great food, then this is your spot.

Is Brasilia or Mazatlan Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Mazatlan is well known for backpackers. However, Brasilia is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Mazatlan is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. The laid back atmosphere makes this a great stopover for backpackers who want to experience the Mexican culture. Stick to the touristy areas if possible.

Brasilia is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There's fascinating architecture and great green spaces, but the city has limited nightlife and it isn't the most popular destination for backpackers. There are some budget-friendly hostels and public buses that make it possible to explore without spending too much. Though it lacks a strong backpacker scene, Brasília's mix of culture, green spaces, and history makes it an interesting stop for adventurous travelers.

Is Brasilia or Mazatlan Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Brasilia and Mazatlan.

You'll find some public transit in Brasilia, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The public transit system is relatively limited compared to larger Brazilian cities, but it still offers a few options for getting around. The Metro is an efficient choice for traveling through central areas, with two main lines that connect key neighborhoods like Asa Norte and Plano Piloto. There are also buses that are more comprehensive.

While Mazatlan offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are city buses around town.

Is Brasilia or Mazatlan a more walkable city?

Mazatlan is well known for its ease of walking around. However, Brasilia is not particularly known for its walkability.

Mazatlan is a very walkable destination. The city is relatively walkable.

Brasilia is generally not a very walkable city. The city isn't particularly walkable because it is very spread out.

For even more information, also check out Is Brasilia Worth Visiting? and Is Mazatlan Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Mazatlan or Brasilia?

How long in Brasilia or Mazatlan?

In either Brasilia or Mazatlan, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Mazatlan than Brasilia because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Brasilia, and 3-5 days is enough time in Mazatlan.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Mazatlan than Brasilia 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 Mazatlan.

One day in Brasilia or Mazatlan?

The city of Brasilia offers food and shopping. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

The city of Mazatlan offers museums and nightlife. 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.

A weekend in Brasilia or Mazatlan?

Brasilia 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. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Brasilia, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Mazatlan is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Brasilia or Mazatlan?

Brasilia 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.

Mazatlan is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Mazatlan, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Brasilia or Mazatlan?

Brasilia is a great place to explore. 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.

Mazatlan 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Eco Tours in Brazil, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Brazil, The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Mexico, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Mexico.

When comparing the travel costs between Brasilia and Mazatlan, we can see that Brasilia 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. Even though Brasilia is in South America and Mazatlan is in North America, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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

Which is Bigger, Brasilia or Mazatlan?

Brasilia has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Mazatlan. When comparing the sizes of Brasilia and Mazatlan, 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.