A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Marathon vs. Nashville for Nightlife, Resorts, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Marathon or Nashville?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Marathon or Nashville, 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.

Marathon

Marathon is a beautiful, relaxing, and quaint island. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Nashville

Nashville is a eclectic, southern, and country music lovers city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and live music.

Marathon and Nashville: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Marathon or Nashville?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Nashville. Although Marathon and Nashville are both popular with visitors, Nashville has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Nashville is more popular for its museums, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Marathon is known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty. Marathon is more touristy than Nashville and is known for its Loggerhead sea turtles, the Dolphin Research Center, Sombrero Beach, and its many places to scuba dive and snorkel. Nashville is popular for its influence in country music and its many live music venues. It is also home to The Grand Ole Opry.

How is Marathon different from Nashville?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Marathon or Nashville?

Nashville is a nice place to visit for its historical sights. However, Marathon does not have museums and landmarks.

Nashville is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. It is famous as the home of the Grand Ole Opry. It's also where you'll find the Country Music Hall of Fame and the unique Johnny Cash Museum.

Marathon does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Marathon or Nashville? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Marathon and Nashville offer a number of good restaurants to choose from.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Marathon. There are restaurants with waterfront terraces, raw bars, and other seafood eateries where you can enjoy fresh caught fish for a reasonable price.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Nashville. The city is known for some southern favorites including southern barbecue, mac and cheese, and biscuits and gravy.

Is Marathon or Nashville Better for Nightlife?

Nashville is great for nightlife. Also, Marathon is not as popular, but is still a nice island for nightlife and partying.

Many people head to Nashville for the nightlife scene. The city is popular for it's music scene, particularly the country music scene. You can take in one of the free Honky Tonks or head to a rooftop bar. It's also a popular destination for bachelor and bachelorette parties.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Marathon. Popular nightlife venues include JJ’s Dog House & Sports Bar, Brass Monkey, and Cabana Club.

Is Marathon or Nashville Better for Music?

Nashville is a must-visit destination for live music. However, Marathon is not a live music destination.

Nashville is known as a music capital around the world. The city is famous for country music, blues, and rock and roll. Popular venues include The Basement, The 5 Spot, and The Cannery Complex.

Marathon is not a live music destination.

Is Marathon or Nashville Better for Resorts?

Marathon is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. Also, Nashville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its resorts.

In Marathon, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. Popular resorts include Isla Bella Beach Resort and Tranquility Bay Resort.

With a selection of resorts, Nashville makes a nice vacation spot. There are a couple of famous resorts in the area including the Gaylord Opryland Resort, the Hermitage Hotel, and the Omni Nashville Hotel.

Is Marathon or Nashville Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Marathon is a island with good options for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Nashville is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Marathon. There are many dive shops around Marathon and the area has dive spots that are great for every level. Some of the best sites are Sombrero Reef, Coffins Patch, and Thunderbolt wreck. There are also many snorkeling trips that head out to Sombrero Reef.

Nashville is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Marathon or Nashville Better for Beaches?

Marathon is a very popular place for its beaches. However, Nashville is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Marathon attract visitors from all over. Sombrero Beach is a popular spot for picnics, swimming and seeing the Loggerhead Turtles from April through October.

Nashville is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Marathon or Nashville?

Nashville is adequate for shopping. However, Marathon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Nashville is a good destination for shopping. The town has a number of boutique shops as well as major department stores. You'll find all of the major American chains around town.

Marathon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Marathon or Nashville Better for Christmas?

Nashville is a nice place to visit for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Marathon does not offer Christmas activities.

Plenty of visitors enjoy Christmas activities while in Nashville. Several different venues decorate beautifully for the Christmas season including the Gaylord Opryland.

Marathon does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Marathon or Nashville Better for Families?

Marathon is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Nashville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Marathon is a very family-friendly destination. Kids will enjoy getting face-to-face with dolphins at the Dolphin Research Center. Families can also explore Pigeon Key or play in the water at Sombrero Beach. Families will find no shortage of activities on the island.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Nashville. The city has a handful of kid-friendly activities like a science center and kid-friendly music venues.

Is Marathon or Nashville Better for Couples?

Marathon is a very popular place for romance. Also, Nashville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Marathon makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With beautiful views, 7 Mile Bridge, and plenty of activities, this area makes a romantic destination for couples. There are beaches and waterfront spots that offer a romantic setting for couples.

Nashville makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. For music lovers, this is the ultimate couple's destination. There are also a number of romantic activities around town including horse drawn carriage rides through the downtown. To enjoy the beautiful weather, head to Centennial Park or take a hike in Forest Hills.

Is Marathon or Nashville Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nashville is a nice place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Marathon is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

It's common for backpackers to visit Nashville. There are one or two hostels around town and there's a great live music scene that attracts a young crowd.

Marathon is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Marathon or Nashville Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Neither Marathon or Nashville offer decent public transit.

Public transit is quite limited in Marathon. There's no real public transportation in town. A car is essential.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Nashville. Public transportation is very limited and you really need a car to explore the city in depth.

Is Marathon or Nashville a more walkable city?

Marathon is a decent place to visit for its walkability. However, Nashville is lacking in good options for its high level of walkability.

Marathon is generally not a very walkable island. Shops and restaurants and spread out along a central road, making walking difficult to impossible.

Nashville is not a walkable island. There aren't many parts of the city that are pedestrian-friendly.

For even more information, also check out Is Marathon Worth Visiting? and Is Nashville Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Nashville or Marathon?

How long in Marathon or Nashville?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Marathon and Nashville. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Marathon than in Nashville. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Marathon, and 2-3 days is enough time in Nashville.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Nashville than Marathon 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 Nashville.

One day in Marathon or Nashville?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the island of Marathon. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

The city of Nashville offers live music and food. 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 Marathon or Nashville?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife around the beautiful destination of Marathon. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Nashville 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 Nashville, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Marathon or Nashville?

You'll find nightlife and food around the beautiful island of Marathon. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this island makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer.

Nashville is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that live music is why people visit. 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.

A week in Marathon or Nashville?

Marathon is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Marathon, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Nashville is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that live music is why people visit. 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 Adventure Tours to United States of America, The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, and The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Marathon and Nashville, we can see that Nashville 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 Marathon Expensive? and Is Nashville Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Marathon or Nashville?

Nashville has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Marathon. When comparing the sizes of Marathon and Nashville, 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.

When is the best time to visit Marathon or Nashville?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Marathon or Nashville in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Marathon and Nashville. The beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Marathon this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Nashville for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Marathon is around the same temperature as Nashville in the summer. The daily temperature in Marathon averages around 84°F (29°C) in July, and Nashville fluctuates around 81°F (27°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Nashville this time of the year. In Marathon, it's very sunny this time of the year. Marathon usually receives more sunshine than Nashville during summer. Marathon gets 328 hours of sunny skies, while Nashville receives 276 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Marathon usually receives less rain than Nashville. Marathon gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Nashville receives 3.9 inches (99 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Marathon or Nashville in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Marathon as well as Nashville. Many travelers come to Marathon for the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, many visitors come to Nashville in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

In the autumn, Marathon is much warmer than Nashville. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Marathon in October average around 80°F (27°C), and Nashville averages at about 62°F (17°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Nashville. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Marathon this time of the year. In the autumn, Marathon often gets more sunshine than Nashville. Marathon gets 258 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nashville receives 212 hours of full sun.

Marathon receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Marathon usually gets more rain in October than Nashville. Marathon gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Nashville receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Marathon or Nashville in the Winter?

Both Nashville and Marathon are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Marathon in the winter for the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Nashville for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Nashville can be very cold during winter. In January, Marathon is generally much warmer than Nashville. Daily temperatures in Marathon average around 70°F (21°C), and Nashville fluctuates around 38°F (4°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Marathon. Marathon usually receives more sunshine than Nashville during winter. Marathon gets 252 hours of sunny skies, while Nashville receives 134 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Marathon usually receives less rain than Nashville. Marathon gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Nashville receives 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Marathon or Nashville in the Spring?

Both Nashville and Marathon during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Marathon for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Nashville because of the activities around the city.

Marathon is much warmer than Nashville in the spring. The daily temperature in Marathon averages around 77°F (25°C) in April, and Nashville fluctuates around 62°F (16°C).

In Nashville, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Marathon. In the spring, Marathon often gets more sunshine than Nashville. Marathon gets 326 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nashville receives 234 hours of full sun.

Nashville gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Marathon usually gets less rain in April than Nashville. Marathon gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Nashville receives 4.3 inches (110 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Nashville and Marathon