A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Marathon vs. Moncton for Families, Couples, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Marathon or Moncton?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Marathon or Moncton, 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 quaint, beautiful, and relaxing island. With stunning beauty, Marathon attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the beaches, nightlife, and food. See Marathon travel costs.

Moncton

Moncton is a quaint, compact, and cultural city. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums. See Moncton travel costs.

Marathon and Moncton: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Marathon or Moncton?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Marathon than Moncton, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Marathon is better known for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Moncton is more popular for its museums and attractions and shopping. Marathon is more touristy than Moncton and is known for its Loggerhead sea turtles, the Dolphin Research Center, Sombrero Beach, and its many places to scuba dive and snorkel. Also, Marathon is famous for The Dolphin Research Center. Moncton is well known for its unique sense of place and its cultural activities.

How is Marathon different from Moncton?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Moncton is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The city has a zoo at Magnetic Hill as well as several great museums and historic sites like Fort Beauséjour and the Acadian Museum.

Marathon does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Both Marathon and Moncton offer a number of notable 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 Moncton. You'll find a range of casual eateries around town as well as wine tasting and a few upscales places. Poutine is the local favorite, but you can also try fried seafood or a local stew.

Is Marathon or Moncton Better for Nightlife?

Marathon is a good destination for its evening party scene. However, Moncton is not a good destination for nightlife.

If you're looking for night time activities Marathon has a few options to choose from. Popular nightlife venues include JJ’s Dog House & Sports Bar, Brass Monkey, and Cabana Club.

Most people don't head to Moncton specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. Many of the local bars and clubs are geared toward a slightly younger crowd.

Is Marathon or Moncton Better for Resorts?

Marathon is great for its luxury resorts. However, Moncton is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Marathon to choose from. Popular resorts include Isla Bella Beach Resort and Tranquility Bay Resort.

Moncton is not a resort destination.

Is Marathon or Moncton Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Marathon is a good destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Moncton is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery 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.

Moncton is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Marathon or Moncton Better for Beaches?

Marathon is great for the beach. However, Moncton is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Marathon for it's beautiful beaches. Sombrero Beach is a popular spot for picnics, swimming and seeing the Loggerhead Turtles from April through October.

Moncton is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Marathon or Moncton?

Moncton is a nice place to visit for shopping. However, Marathon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Moncton. There's a mix of independent shops and larger big box stores. Some of the largest shopping areas include Mapleton Plaza and Wheeler Park Power Centre.

Marathon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Marathon or Moncton More Beautiful?

Marathon is great for its scenery and beauty. However, Moncton is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Marathon attracts visitors from all around. The waters are blue and the setting is peaceful, making this area truly beautiful.

Moncton is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Marathon or Moncton Better for Families?

Marathon is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Moncton is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Marathon. 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.

Moncton is a family-friendly place to visit. It's a family-friendly town with indoor play spaces and outdoor parks. Highlights for families include a visit to Magnetic Hill Zoo and a stop at Butterfly World and the Boardwalk.

Is Marathon or Moncton Better for Couples?

Marathon is great for couples. Also, Moncton is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Marathon is a great island if you're traveling as 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.

Moncton is a nice destination for couples. There are some great date night ideas like wine tasting at Magnetic Hill Winery or seeing a show at the theater.

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

Moncton is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Marathon is not a good destination for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in Moncton. There is a bus system but it's better not to rely on it.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Marathon. There's no real public transportation in town. A car is essential.

Is Marathon or Moncton a more walkable city?

Moncton is a nice place to visit for its walkability. However, Marathon is not a good destination for its high level of walkability.

Moncton is somewhat walkable. It's relatively compact and dense enough to get around on foot in many parts.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Moncton or Marathon?

How long in Marathon or Moncton?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Marathon or Moncton to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Marathon than Moncton because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Marathon, and 1-2 days is enough time in Moncton.

Families should spend more time in Marathon than Moncton. 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 Moncton. 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 Moncton 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 Moncton.

One day in Marathon or Moncton?

In Marathon, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This island offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

The city of Moncton 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 Marathon or Moncton?

In Marathon, you'll find nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Most people come for the beaches. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

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

Five days in Marathon or Moncton?

Marathon is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Marathon has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Moncton 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 Marathon or Moncton?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Marathon. In Marathon, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Moncton 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 Tours for Seniors to United States of America, The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America, The Best Camping Tours in Canada, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Canada.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Marathon or Moncton?

Moncton has a larger population, and is about 9 times larger than the population of Marathon. When comparing the sizes of Marathon and Moncton, 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 Moncton?

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 Moncton in the Summer?

Both Moncton and Marathon are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Marathon for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Moncton in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Marathon is generally much warmer than Moncton. Daily temperatures in Marathon average around 84°F (29°C), and Moncton fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Moncton. In July, Marathon usually receives less rain than Moncton. Marathon gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Moncton receives 103 mm (4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Marathon or Moncton in the Autumn?

Both Moncton and Marathon during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Marathon in the autumn for the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Moncton for the shopping scene during these months.

Marathon is much warmer than Moncton in the autumn. The daily temperature in Marathon averages around 80°F (27°C) in October, and Moncton fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

Moncton gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Marathon. Marathon usually gets more rain in October than Moncton. Marathon gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Moncton receives 106 mm (4.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Marathon or Moncton in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Marathon and Moncton. Most visitors come to Marathon for the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Moncton because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Moncton can be very cold. In the winter, Marathon is much warmer than Moncton. Typically, the winter temperatures in Marathon in January average around 70°F (21°C), and Moncton averages at about -8°C (17°F).

Moncton receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Marathon usually receives less rain than Moncton. Marathon gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Moncton receives 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Marathon or Moncton in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Marathon as well as Moncton. The spring months attract visitors to Marathon because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

It's quite cold in Moncton in the spring. In April, Marathon is generally much warmer than Moncton. Daily temperatures in Marathon average around 77°F (25°C), and Moncton fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

It's quite rainy in Moncton. Marathon usually gets less rain in April than Moncton. Marathon gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Moncton receives 101 mm (4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Moncton and Marathon