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

Should you visit Mazatlan or Norfolk?

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

Should I visit Mazatlan or Norfolk? 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 historical, cultural, and authentic city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Norfolk

Norfolk is a maritime, authentic, and blue collar city. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Mazatlan and Norfolk: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Mazatlan or Norfolk?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Mazatlan than Norfolk. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Mazatlan is more touristy than Norfolk and is known for its historic center, authenticity, and surfing areas. It is also well known for the Malecon. Norfolk is famous for its naval base and military presence.

How is Mazatlan different from Norfolk?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Norfolk 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 Norfolk?

Mazatlan is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Norfolk 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.

Norfolk offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are some interesting museums in town like the Chrysler Museum, the Hampton Roads Naval Museum, and the Norfolk Police and Fire Museum. You should also check out the Nauticus and the Battleship Wisconsin.

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

Mazatlan is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Norfolk is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Mazatlan makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Norfolk has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. You'll find a decent collection of restaurants in the downtown area. Food options include local seafood, brunch, casual eateries, and fine dining.

Is Mazatlan or Norfolk Better for Nightlife?

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

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 Norfolk has a few options to choose from. Downtown is where you'll find the most busy nightlife venues. The city has great breweries, and the live music scene has taken off. There are also lounges, dance clubs, and wine bars to choose from.

Is Mazatlan or Norfolk Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Mazatlan is a popular place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Norfolk 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.

Norfolk is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Mazatlan or Norfolk Better for Beaches?

Mazatlan is a great destination for its beaches. However, Norfolk 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.

Norfolk is not a beach destination.

Is Mazatlan or Norfolk Better for its Old Town?

Mazatlan is a great destination for its historic old town. However, Norfolk 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.

Norfolk does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Mazatlan or Norfolk?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Norfolk 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.

Norfolk has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There's a mix of shopping malls, local boutiques, farmer's markets, and shopping centers around town.

Is Mazatlan or Norfolk Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Mazatlan or Norfolk.

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.

Norfolk offers lots of family activities. The Norfolk Zoo is always a hit with kids. You should also visit the USS Wisconsin which offers tours, as well as the Douglas MacArthur Memorial Museum.

Is Mazatlan or Norfolk Better for Couples?

Mazatlan is a popular place for romance. However, Norfolk is a city with minimal options for its romantic activities.

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.

Most people don't think of Norfolk as a couple's destination. There are some nice hotels and several great parks and outdoor activities.

Is Mazatlan or Norfolk Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Mazatlan is a great destination for backpackers. However, Norfolk is a city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Mazatlan. 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.

Norfolk is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. This is an often overlooked area for backpackers.

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

Mazatlan is a popular place for its public transit. However, Norfolk is a city with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Mazatlan, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are city buses around town.

Public transit is mostly limited in Norfolk. While there are buses, ferries, and even lightrail in the area, you really want to have a car to get around.

Is Mazatlan or Norfolk a more walkable city?

Mazatlan is a great destination for its walkability. Also, Norfolk is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Mazatlan is very walkable. The city is relatively walkable.

Norfolk is a somewhat walkable place. Downtown is the most walkable part of the city.

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

Should I spend more time in Norfolk or Mazatlan?

How long in Mazatlan or Norfolk?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Mazatlan or Norfolk to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Mazatlan than Norfolk because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Mazatlan, and 1-2 days is enough time in Norfolk.

Families should spend more time in Mazatlan than Norfolk. 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 Norfolk. 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 Norfolk 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 Norfolk?

In Mazatlan, you'll find shopping and museums. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

The city of Norfolk 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.

A weekend in Mazatlan or Norfolk?

In Mazatlan, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

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

Five days in Mazatlan or Norfolk?

Mazatlan is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Mazatlan has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Norfolk 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 Norfolk?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Mazatlan. Many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting Mazatlan. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Norfolk 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.

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 10-Day Tours in United States of America, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Mazatlan and Norfolk, we can see that Norfolk 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 Norfolk would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Norfolk 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 Norfolk Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Mazatlan or Norfolk?

Mazatlan has a larger population, and is about 51% larger than the population of Norfolk. When comparing the sizes of Mazatlan and Norfolk, 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 Norfolk?

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 Norfolk in the Summer?

Both Norfolk 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 family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Norfolk this time of year.

In July, Mazatlan is generally around the same temperature as Norfolk. Daily temperatures in Mazatlan average around 29°C (83°F), and Norfolk fluctuates around 79°F (26°C).

It's quite sunny in Norfolk. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Mazatlan. Mazatlan usually receives less sunshine than Norfolk during summer. Mazatlan gets 216 hours of sunny skies, while Norfolk receives 279 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Norfolk. It's quite rainy in Mazatlan. In July, Mazatlan usually receives more rain than Norfolk. Mazatlan gets 199 mm (7.8 in) of rain, while Norfolk receives 5.7 inches (145 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Mazatlan or Norfolk in the Autumn?

Both Norfolk 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 Norfolk for the shopping scene.

Mazatlan is much warmer than Norfolk in the autumn. The daily temperature in Mazatlan averages around 27°C (81°F) in October, and Norfolk fluctuates around 62°F (16°C).

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

Mazatlan usually gets more rain in October than Norfolk. Mazatlan gets 86 mm (3.4 in) of rain, while Norfolk receives 3.1 inches (78 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Mazatlan or Norfolk in the Winter?

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

Norfolk can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Mazatlan is much warmer than Norfolk. Typically, the winter temperatures in Mazatlan in January average around 20°C (67°F), and Norfolk averages at about 39°F (4°C).

In Mazatlan, it's very sunny this time of the year. Mazatlan usually receives more sunshine than Norfolk during winter. Mazatlan gets 203 hours of sunny skies, while Norfolk receives 168 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Mazatlan usually receives less rain than Norfolk. Mazatlan gets 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Norfolk receives 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Mazatlan or Norfolk in the Spring?

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

In April, Mazatlan is generally much warmer than Norfolk. Daily temperatures in Mazatlan average around 22°C (72°F), and Norfolk fluctuates around 58°F (14°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Norfolk. 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 Norfolk. Mazatlan gets 250 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Norfolk receives 253 hours of full sun.

Mazatlan usually gets less rain in April than Norfolk. Mazatlan gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Norfolk receives 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Norfolk and Mazatlan