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

Should you visit Mazatlan or Chattanooga?

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

Should I visit Mazatlan or Chattanooga? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Mazatlan

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

Chattanooga

Chattanooga is a thriving, bustling, and outdoorsy city. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Mazatlan and Chattanooga: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Mazatlan or Chattanooga?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Mazatlan than Chattanooga, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Mazatlan is more popular for its museums, food, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and historical sights, while Chattanooga is known for its hiking. Mazatlan is popular for its historic center, authenticity, and surfing areas. It is also home to the Malecon. Chattanooga is popular for it's hikes, railways, and nearby natural areas.

How is Mazatlan different from Chattanooga?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Mazatlan is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Chattanooga is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Mazatlan offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. There are colonial buildings around the Centro Historico. You should also check out the Historic Cathedral and the Angela Peralta Theater.

Chattanooga is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. It's a thriving city and there are a number of museums to explore. The Hunter Museum of American Art is great for art enthusiasts. There's also the Creative Discovery Museum, the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum, and the 6th Cavalry Museum, as well as several smaller museums that you can visit.

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

Mazatlan is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Chattanooga 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 Chattanooga. There are a growing number of restaurants that range from local dives to fine dining. Fried food is common, but you'll also find Mexican and classic hamburgers. Popular dishes that are local to the area include catfish, southern barbecue, and hush puppies.

Is Mazatlan or Chattanooga Better for Nightlife?

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

Mazatlan has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Chattanooga has a few options to choose from. You'll find plenty of bars and clubs around town. There are also a number of comedy and improv clubs that are fun to check out.

Is Mazatlan or Chattanooga Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Mazatlan is a popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Chattanooga is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Mazatlan has a few good snorkeling spots. Most of the diving takes place around the Pajaros, Venados and Lobos islands. This is where you'll see the most tropical fish.

Chattanooga is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Mazatlan or Chattanooga Better for Beaches?

Mazatlan is a great destination for the beach. However, Chattanooga is not a beach destination.

Mazatlan is considered a top beach destination. 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.

Chattanooga is not a beach destination.

Is Mazatlan or Chattanooga Better for its Old Town?

Mazatlan is a great destination for its historic old town charm. However, Chattanooga does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Mazatlan. It's a historic port city with a charming colonial old town.

Chattanooga does not have a historic old town.

Is Mazatlan or Chattanooga Better for Hiking?

Chattanooga is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Mazatlan is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Chattanooga. It's proximity to the mountains means that you don't have to go far to find good hiking. Within a half hour of town there are more than 50 trailheads. Lookout Mountain and Signal Mountain are both hiking destinations. Several trails have swimming spots and many pass through nice forests or head to impressive viewpoints.

Mazatlan is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Mazatlan or Chattanooga?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Chattanooga and Mazatlan.

Mazatlan offers some nice shopping areas. 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.

Chattanooga has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Head downtown for local shops or to the larger malls if you want mainstream stores. Many visitors enjoy antiquing while they're in town, but there are also farmer's markets and thrift stores.

Is Mazatlan or Chattanooga Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Mazatlan or Chattanooga.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Mazatlan. 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.

Chattanooga offers lots of family activities. Many people enjoy a visit to the Tennessee Aquarium, which has a touch tank and a butterfly exhibit, among other things. Near downtown, Coolidge Park is a great place for kids to get their energy out. There's also the popular Lookout Mountain Incline Railway as well as many hiking trails in the area.

Is Mazatlan or Chattanooga Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Mazatlan and Chattanooga make for a good place to visit.

Mazatlan makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Chattanooga is a good city for couples to visit. Many couples enjoy staying at a local inn and then dining in a nice restaurant or visiting a winery. There's an eclectic art district to explore as well as horse drawn carriages and plenty of nearby hiking trails.

Is Mazatlan or Chattanooga Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Mazatlan is a great destination for backpackers. However, Chattanooga is a city with minimal options 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.

Chattanooga is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's proximity to the mountains and diverse outdoor activities make this an under-rated destination for many backpackers.

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

Chattanooga is well known for its public transit. Also, Mazatlan is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Chattanooga has some very good public transit options. The city has a convenient and free electric shuttle service. It travels through the downtown and has stops at many points of interest such as the Chattanooga Choo Choo and the Tennessee Aquarium.

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

Is Mazatlan or Chattanooga a more walkable city?

Mazatlan and Chattanooga both are high quality when exploring on foot.

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

Chattanooga is a very walkable destination. The city has put a lot of effort into improving its walkability. In particular, the downtown is nice to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Chattanooga or Mazatlan?

How long in Mazatlan or Chattanooga?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Mazatlan and Chattanooga. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Mazatlan than in Chattanooga. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Mazatlan, and 2-3 days is enough time in Chattanooga.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Mazatlan than Chattanooga 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 Mazatlan or Chattanooga?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the cultural city of Mazatlan. It's also a great beach destination, too. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

The city of Chattanooga offers food and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Mazatlan or Chattanooga?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the cultural destination of Mazatlan. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This city offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Chattanooga 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. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Chattanooga, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Mazatlan or Chattanooga?

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the authentic city of Mazatlan. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Chattanooga 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.

A week in Mazatlan or Chattanooga?

Many people enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting Mazatlan. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people come for the beaches. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Chattanooga is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Food and Culinary Tours in Mexico, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Mexico, The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America, and The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Mazatlan and Chattanooga, we can see that Chattanooga is more expensive. And not only is Mazatlan much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Mazatlan would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Mazatlan 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 Chattanooga would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Chattanooga than you might in Mazatlan.

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

Which is Bigger, Mazatlan or Chattanooga?

Mazatlan has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Chattanooga. When comparing the sizes of Mazatlan and Chattanooga, 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 Mazatlan or Chattanooga?

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 Mazatlan or Chattanooga in the Summer?

Both Chattanooga and Mazatlan are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Mazatlan because of the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Chattanooga this time of year.

In the summer, Mazatlan is around the same temperature as Chattanooga. Typically, the summer temperatures in Mazatlan in July average around 29°C (83°F), and Chattanooga averages at about 81°F (27°C).

It's quite sunny in Chattanooga. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Mazatlan. Mazatlan usually receives less sunshine than Chattanooga during summer. Mazatlan gets 216 hours of sunny skies, while Chattanooga receives 265 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Chattanooga. It's quite rainy in Mazatlan. In July, Mazatlan usually receives more rain than Chattanooga. Mazatlan gets 199 mm (7.8 in) of rain, while Chattanooga receives 5.2 inches (131 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Mazatlan or Chattanooga in the Autumn?

Both Chattanooga and Mazatlan during the autumn are popular places to visit. The shopping scene are the main draw to Mazatlan this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Chattanooga for the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

In October, Mazatlan is generally much warmer than Chattanooga. Daily temperatures in Mazatlan average around 27°C (81°F), and Chattanooga fluctuates around 63°F (17°C).

In Chattanooga, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Mazatlan. In the autumn, Mazatlan often gets more sunshine than Chattanooga. Mazatlan gets 233 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chattanooga receives 211 hours of full sun.

Mazatlan usually gets more rain in October than Chattanooga. Mazatlan gets 86 mm (3.4 in) of rain, while Chattanooga receives 3 inches (75 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Mazatlan or Chattanooga in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Mazatlan and Chattanooga. Many travelers come to Mazatlan for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Chattanooga in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Chattanooga can get quite cold in the winter. Mazatlan is much warmer than Chattanooga in the winter. The daily temperature in Mazatlan averages around 20°C (67°F) in January, and Chattanooga fluctuates around 40°F (5°C).

In Mazatlan, it's very sunny this time of the year. Mazatlan usually receives more sunshine than Chattanooga during winter. Mazatlan gets 203 hours of sunny skies, while Chattanooga receives 145 hours of full sun in the winter.

Chattanooga receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Mazatlan usually receives less rain than Chattanooga. Mazatlan gets 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Chattanooga receives 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Mazatlan or Chattanooga in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Mazatlan as well as Chattanooga. Many visitors come to Mazatlan in the spring for the beaches.

In the spring, Mazatlan is a little warmer than Chattanooga. Typically, the spring temperatures in Mazatlan in April average around 22°C (72°F), and Chattanooga averages at about 62°F (17°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Chattanooga. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Mazatlan this time of the year. In the spring, Mazatlan often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Chattanooga. Mazatlan gets 250 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chattanooga receives 243 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Chattanooga. Mazatlan usually gets less rain in April than Chattanooga. Mazatlan gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Chattanooga receives 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Chattanooga and Mazatlan