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

Should you visit Recife or Mazatlan?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Recife and Mazatlan can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Recife

Recife is a under-rated, authentic, 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 beaches, shopping, and museums. See Recife travel costs.

Mazatlan

Mazatlan is a cultural, authentic, and historical city. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Mazatlan travel costs.

Recife and Mazatlan: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Recife or Mazatlan?

You'll generally find more things to do in Recife than Mazatlan. Recife is bigger than Mazatlan, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Recife is better known for its nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Mazatlan is more popular for its scuba diving & snorkeling and historical sights. Recife is well known for its football and music scenes. Also, Recife is famous for Praia de Boa Viagem. Mazatlan is well known for its historic center, authenticity, and surfing areas.

How is Recife different from Mazatlan?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Plenty of people visit the excellent sights and museums in both Recife and Mazatlan.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Recife. The city is large and cultural, so there are a number of museums that you can explore. Some of the favorites include the Instituto Ricardo Brennand, the Jewish Museum and Cultural Center, the State of Pernambuco Museum, and the Recife City Museum.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Mazatlan. There are colonial buildings around the Centro Historico. You should also check out the Historic Cathedral and the Angela Peralta Theater.

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

Dining out at restaurants in both Recife and Mazatlan can be an enjoyable experience.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Recife. You'll find plenty of local restaurants around town. Grilled meat is a staple in many of the dishes and you should definitely visit a churrascaria, which is a restaurant that specializes in cooking meat in the churrasco style. Food carts are great for picking up a coxinha (a pastry), and other local dishes include camarão na moranga (pumpkin stuffed with shrimp) and picanha (sirloin cap).

Mazatlan has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. 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.

Is Recife or Mazatlan Better for Nightlife?

Recife is well known for nightlife and partying. Also, Mazatlan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Recife is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. Many visitors come for Carnival, and this is the obvious time to visit if you're looking for the best parties. Even during the other times of the year, you'll find many happy hours, dance clubs, and live music to enjoy.

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 Recife or Mazatlan Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Mazatlan is a city with good options for its diving and snorkeling. However, Recife is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life 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.

Recife is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Recife or Mazatlan Better for Beaches?

Both Recife and Mazatlan are considered to be excellent beach destinations.

The beaches at Recife attract visitors from all over. The city's beaches are clean and enjoyable to visit and one of the most famous is Praia de Boa Viagem. Some beaches are lined with hotels and nightclubs while others are a bit more removed. If you decide to swim, do take note that shark attacks in the area are a real concern.

Many people visit Mazatlan for it's beautiful 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.

Is Recife or Mazatlan Better for its Old Town?

Mazatlan is a well-known place for its old town. However, Recife does not have a historic old town.

Mazatlan is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. It's a historic port city with a charming colonial old town.

Recife does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Recife or Mazatlan?

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

Recife is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city has many local shops, art galleries, and larger shopping centers. Whether you're looking for clothing or a cultural souvenir, there are many places to browse.

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 Recife or Mazatlan Better for Families?

Mazatlan is a city with good options for its family-friendly activities. However, Recife is not a good city for its kid-friendly activities.

Mazatlan is a family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Recife is not always a place people visit with their families. There are a couple of museums that are good for kids, like Museu do Mamulengo. There are also beaches that are relatively clean for swimming, but make sure you go where the locals go and be very aware of the water conditions.

Is Recife or Mazatlan Better for Couples?

Both Recife and Mazatlan are notable destinations for a couple's getaway.

Recife makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are beaches and restaurants that make for a nice date day. You can explore the city, visit some museums, and soak up the local culture.

Mazatlan is a good city for couples to visit. 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 Recife or Mazatlan Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Mazatlan is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Recife is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Mazatlan is a great city to visit for backpackers. 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Recife. There are a few hostels around town, but they do fill up quickly. The city is often overlooked by tourists but if you're looking for an authentic experience, then this is your place.

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

Both Recife and Mazatlan offer notable public transit options.

Recife has a few public transit options. The city has a metro system as well as city buses.

Mazatlan has some public transit options. There are city buses around town.

Is Recife or Mazatlan a more walkable city?

Mazatlan is a well-known place for its high level of walkability. However, Recife is not a good city for its ease of walking around.

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

Recife is generally not a very walkable city. Parts of the city are more walkable than others. It's also best not to walk alone at night.

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

Should I spend more time in Mazatlan or Recife?

How long in Recife or Mazatlan?

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

Families should spend more time in Mazatlan than Recife. 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 Recife. 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 Recife 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 Recife or Mazatlan?

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

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Mazatlan. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Recife or Mazatlan?

Recife 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. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Recife, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Mazatlan is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Recife or Mazatlan?

Recife 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Mazatlan. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Recife or Mazatlan?

Recife 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 city offers something for everyone.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the cultural destination of Mazatlan. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

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

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Recife and Mazatlan, we can see that Recife is more expensive. And not only is Mazatlan much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Recife is in South America and Mazatlan is in North America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. 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 Recife would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Recife 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 Recife Expensive? and Is Mazatlan Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Recife or Mazatlan?

Recife has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Mazatlan. When comparing the sizes of Recife 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.

When is the best time to visit Recife or Mazatlan?

Even though both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, they experience these seasons at different times of the year. Recife is in the southern hemisphere and summer is in January and winter is in July, but Mazatlan has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit Recife or Mazatlan in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Recife and Mazatlan. Many travelers come to Recife for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Mazatlan in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences.

Recife is around the same temperature as Mazatlan in the summer. The daily temperature in Recife averages around 26°C (79°F) in January, and Mazatlan fluctuates around 29°C (83°F)in July.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Mazatlan this time of the year. In Recife, it's very sunny this time of the year. Recife usually receives more sunshine than Mazatlan during summer. Recife gets 246 hours of sunny skies, while Mazatlan receives 216 hours of full sun in the summer.

Mazatlan receives a lot of rain in the summer. Recife gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Recife usually receives less rain than Mazatlanin July. Recife gets 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Mazatlan receives 199 mm (7.8 in) of rain each month for the summer. Also, March to August is the rainy season in Recife.

Should I visit Recife or Mazatlan in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Recife as well as Mazatlan. Many visitors come to Recife in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Mazatlan for the shopping scene during these months.

In the autumn, Recife is around the same temperature as Mazatlan. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Recife in April average around 26°C (79°F), and Mazatlan averages at about 27°C (81°F)in October.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Mazatlan. In the autumn, Recife often gets less sunshine than Mazatlanin October. Recife gets 185 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mazatlan receives 233 hours of full sun.

Recife receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Recife usually gets more rain in April than Mazatlanin October. Recife gets 338 mm (13.3 in) of rain, while Mazatlan receives 86 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Recife or Mazatlan in the Winter?

Both Mazatlan and Recife are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Recife for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Mazatlan because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In July, Recife is generally a little warmer than Mazatlanin January. Daily temperatures in Recife average around 24°C (76°F), and Mazatlan fluctuates around 20°C (67°F).

It's quite sunny in Mazatlan. Recife usually receives less sunshine than Mazatlan during winter. Recife gets 170 hours of sunny skies, while Mazatlan receives 203 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Recife. In July, Recife usually receives more rain than Mazatlanin January. Recife gets 388 mm (15.3 in) of rain, while Mazatlan receives 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain each month for the winter. The rainy season in Recife is March to August.

Should I visit Recife or Mazatlan in the Spring?

Both Mazatlan and Recife during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Recife because of the beaches and the activities around the city. Furthermore, the beaches are the main draw to Mazatlan this time of year.

Recife is a little warmer than Mazatlan in the spring. The daily temperature in Recife averages around 25°C (77°F) in October, and Mazatlan fluctuates around 22°C (72°F)in April.

In Mazatlan, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Recife. In the spring, Recife often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Mazatlanin April. Recife gets 247 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mazatlan receives 250 hours of full sun.

Recife usually gets more rain in October than Mazatlanin April. Recife gets 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Mazatlan receives 1 mm (0 in) of rain this time of the year. October to December is the dry season in Recife.

Typical Weather for Mazatlan and Recife