A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Mazatlan vs. Portland, Maine for Food, Beaches, Backpackers, and Nightlife

Should you visit Mazatlan or Portland, Maine?

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

Should I visit Mazatlan or Portland, Maine? 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.

Portland, Maine

Portland, Maine is a picturesque, seaside, and laid-back coastal town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Mazatlan and Portland, Maine: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Mazatlan or Portland, Maine?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Mazatlan than Portland, Maine, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Mazatlan is more popular for its museums, food, scuba diving & snorkeling, and historical sights, while Portland, Maine is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Mazatlan is popular for its historic center, authenticity, and surfing areas. It is also home to the Malecon. Portland, Maine is popular for its seafood restaurants, scenic lighthouse, and coastal walks.

How is Mazatlan different from Portland, Maine?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Portland, Maine 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 Portland, Maine?

Mazatlan is well known for its museums and landmarks. However, Portland, Maine does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Portland, Maine does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Mazatlan or Portland, Maine? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Mazatlan is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Portland, Maine 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 Portland, Maine. The town has grown into a foodie destination that takes advantage of its waterfront setting. Many restaurants make use of the fresh seafood with lobster rolls and oysters on the half shell being popular. You'll also find a lot of dishes that use haddock and whole lobsters.

Is Mazatlan or Portland, Maine Better for Nightlife?

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Mazatlan and Portland, Maine.

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 Portland, Maine has a few options to choose from. The city has many microbreweries, wine bars, taverns, and pubs. You'll find many places concentrated in the Old Port, which has a charming and fun atmosphere.

Is Mazatlan or Portland, Maine Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Mazatlan is a popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Portland, Maine 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.

Portland, Maine is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Mazatlan or Portland, Maine Better for Beaches?

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Mazatlan and Portland, Maine are high quality choices.

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.

Portland, Maine is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. It has many sandy and calm beaches. The water may be too cold to swim, but the beaches are perfect for flying a kite or hanging out with family.

Is Mazatlan or Portland, Maine Better for its Old Town?

Mazatlan is well known for its historic old town charm. However, Portland, Maine 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.

Portland, Maine does not have a historic old town.

Is Mazatlan or Portland, Maine Better for Hiking?

Portland, Maine is a popular place for its hiking experiences. However, Mazatlan is not a hiking destination.

Portland, Maine is a good destination for hiking. In addition to bike trails, there are several good hikes in the area.

Mazatlan is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Mazatlan or Portland, Maine?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Portland, Maine 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.

Portland, Maine has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The town has many nice local boutiques to explore. Head downtown for the best local venues and the most interesting shopping opportunities.

Is Mazatlan or Portland, Maine Better for Christmas?

Portland, Maine is a coastal town with a few options for its Christmas activities. However, Mazatlan does not offer Christmas activities.

The Christmas holiday can be fun in Portland, Maine. Watch the Christmas tree lighting or listen to the symphony at Christmas time.

Mazatlan does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Mazatlan or Portland, Maine Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Mazatlan or Portland, Maine.

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.

Portland, Maine offers lots of family activities. It is a charming town with a number of kid-friendly museums, walks, and waterfront activities. You can visit the Portland Observatory, Bug Light Park, or grab ice cream in the Old Port. There are also children's museums such as the Children's Museum & Theatre of Maine.

Is Mazatlan or Portland, Maine Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Mazatlan and Portland, Maine 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.

Portland, Maine is a good city for couples to visit. Couples will enjoy the beautiful waterfront setting, the fine dining restaurants, and everything that the city has to offer. Head to the Old Port for romantic restaurants and a great atmosphere or catch a show at Portland Stage.

Is Mazatlan or Portland, Maine Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Mazatlan is well known for backpackers. However, Portland, Maine 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.

Portland, Maine is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It isn't so much a backpacker destination, but there are some budget accommodation options around town.

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

Mazatlan is a popular place for its public transit. However, Portland, Maine is not particularly known 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 quite limited in Portland, Maine. There is a very basic bus system but you really must have a car to explore the city.

Is Mazatlan or Portland, Maine a more walkable city?

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

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

Portland, Maine is generally not a very walkable city. Downtown is very walkable but if you want to travel to other areas you'll need a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Portland, Maine or Mazatlan?

How long in Mazatlan or Portland, Maine?

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

Families should spend more time in Mazatlan than Portland, Maine. 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 Portland, Maine. 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 Portland, Maine 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 Portland, Maine?

The authentic destination of Mazatlan offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

The beautiful coastal town of Portland, Maine offers nightlife and food. Most people come for the beaches. 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 Portland, Maine?

The city of Mazatlan offers scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Portland, Maine is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this coastal town makes for a great vacation. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Portland, Maine, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Mazatlan or Portland, Maine?

Mazatlan is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. This city offers something for everyone. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

Portland, Maine 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 Portland, Maine?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Mazatlan. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Portland, Maine is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This coastal town 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 Portland, Maine, we can see that Portland, Maine 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 Portland, Maine would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Portland, Maine 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 Portland, Maine Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Mazatlan or Portland, Maine?

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

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 Portland, Maine in the Summer?

Both Portland, Maine 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 beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Portland, Maine this time of year.

In the summer, Mazatlan is a little warmer than Portland, Maine. Typically, the summer temperatures in Mazatlan in July average around 29°C (83°F), and Portland, Maine averages at about 69°F (20°C).

It's quite sunny in Portland, Maine. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Mazatlan. Mazatlan usually receives less sunshine than Portland, Maine during summer. Mazatlan gets 216 hours of sunny skies, while Portland, Maine receives 282 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Mazatlan. In July, Mazatlan usually receives more rain than Portland, Maine. Mazatlan gets 199 mm (7.8 in) of rain, while Portland, Maine receives 2.6 inches (66 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Mazatlan or Portland, Maine in the Autumn?

Both Portland, Maine and Mazatlan during the autumn are popular places to visit. The shopping scene are the main draw to Mazatlan this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Portland, Maine for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Mazatlan is generally much warmer than Portland, Maine. Daily temperatures in Mazatlan average around 27°C (81°F), and Portland, Maine fluctuates around 49°F (9°C).

It's quite sunny in Mazatlan. In the autumn, Mazatlan often gets more sunshine than Portland, Maine. Mazatlan gets 233 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland, Maine receives 196 hours of full sun.

Mazatlan usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Portland, Maine. Mazatlan gets 86 mm (3.4 in) of rain, while Portland, Maine receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Mazatlan or Portland, Maine in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Mazatlan and Portland, Maine. Many travelers come to Mazatlan for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Portland, Maine in the winter for the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Portland, Maine can get quite cold in the winter. Mazatlan is much warmer than Portland, Maine in the winter. The daily temperature in Mazatlan averages around 20°C (67°F) in January, and Portland, Maine fluctuates around 21°F (-6°C).

In Mazatlan, it's very sunny this time of the year. Mazatlan usually receives more sunshine than Portland, Maine during winter. Mazatlan gets 203 hours of sunny skies, while Portland, Maine receives 163 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Mazatlan usually receives less rain than Portland, Maine. Mazatlan gets 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Portland, Maine receives 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Mazatlan or Portland, Maine in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Mazatlan as well as Portland, Maine. Many visitors come to Mazatlan in the spring for the beaches. Also, most visitors come to Portland, Maine for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Mazatlan is much warmer than Portland, Maine. Typically, the spring temperatures in Mazatlan in April average around 22°C (72°F), and Portland, Maine averages at about 43°F (6°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Portland, Maine. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Mazatlan this time of the year. In the spring, Mazatlan often gets more sunshine than Portland, Maine. Mazatlan gets 250 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland, Maine receives 212 hours of full sun.

Mazatlan usually gets less rain in April than Portland, Maine. Mazatlan gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Portland, Maine receives 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Portland, Maine and Mazatlan