A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Marathon vs. Portland for Families, Couples, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Marathon or Portland?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Marathon or Portland, 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 beautiful, relaxing, and quaint island. Marathon is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Marathon travel costs.

Portland

Portland is a nature-filled, scenic, and laid-back city. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Portland is a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include shopping, nightlife, and live music. See Portland travel costs.

Marathon and Portland: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable


Is there more to do in Marathon or Portland?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Portland. Although Marathon and Portland are both popular with visitors, Portland has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Portland is more popular for its museums and attractions, music, hiking, shopping, and small town charm, while Marathon is known for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty. Marathon is popular for its Loggerhead sea turtles, the Dolphin Research Center, Sombrero Beach, and its many places to scuba dive and snorkel. Portland is popular for its independent and vintage shops, thriving art scene, lush parks and gardens, progressive and quirky personality, and easy access to amazing natural beauty. It is also home to Washington Park.

How is Marathon different from Portland?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Marathon
Portland

Portland is adequate for its historical sights. However, Marathon does not have museums and landmarks.

While most people don't head to Portland specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Visitors usually come for the city's outdoor recreation and eclectic personality more than the landmarks and museums. There are a few places to visit on a rainy day though including Pittock Mansion, the Portland Art Museum, and the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry.

Marathon does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Marathon
Portland

Marathon is a island with good options for its restaurants. However, Portland is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Portland. The town is more famous for it's craft beer than it's food, but there are still a number of local restaurants that offer unique Oregon dishes. You'll find no shortage of vegetarian and vegan options on most menus. There is also a big farm-to-table scene with many farmers markets around town as well.

Is Marathon or Portland Better for Nightlife?

Marathon
Portland

The vibe at night is good in both Marathon and Portland.

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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Portland. Famously, this town's nightlife is all about the craft beer and local breweries. Make sure you check out Bailey's Taproom, The Big Legrowlski, and The Commons Brewery.

Is Marathon or Portland Better for Music?

Marathon
Portland

Portland is a nice place to visit for live music. However, Marathon is not a live music destination.

The music scene helps keep Portland active and fun. The town has a thriving live music and international folk dancing scene.

Marathon is not a live music destination.


Is Marathon or Portland Better for Resorts?

Marathon
Portland

Marathon is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Portland is not a resort destination.

In Marathon, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. Popular resorts include Isla Bella Beach Resort and Tranquility Bay Resort.

Portland is not a resort destination.

Is Marathon or Portland Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Marathon
Portland

Marathon is a island with good options for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Portland is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

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

Portland is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Marathon or Portland Better for Beaches?

Marathon
Portland

Marathon is a very popular place for its beaches. However, Portland is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Marathon attract visitors from all over. Sombrero Beach is a popular spot for picnics, swimming and seeing the Loggerhead Turtles from April through October.

Portland is not a beach destination.


Is Marathon or Portland Better for Hiking?

Marathon
Portland

Portland is great for hiking. However, Marathon is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Portland for the hiking trails. Just outside of town you'll find amazing hikes and stunning natural beauty. In town there are many urban hikes through parks and gardens, but in just a short drive you also have access to Mount Hood and many of the region's most beautiful hikes around the Columbia River Gorge.

Marathon is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Marathon or Portland?

Marathon
Portland

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

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Portland. To fully experience shopping in town, head to the local vendors and thrift shops. There are many vintage clothing shops, book stores, and independent sellers around town. The city is also full of farmers markets. For some of the most interesting shopping, check out the Pearl District, Pioneer Place, Union Way, and Downtown neighborhoods.

Marathon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Marathon or Portland More Beautiful?

Marathon
Portland

Marathon is a very popular place for its scenery and beauty. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its scenery and beauty.

Marathon is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. The waters are blue and the setting is peaceful, making this area truly beautiful.

Portland is a beautiful place to visit, too. Surrounded by mountains and filled with parks and greenspace, many people find this town to be quite beautiful.


Is Marathon or Portland Better for Families?

Marathon
Portland

Marathon is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Marathon is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Portland. This is an outdoor city by nature, so families will appreciate the many parks and outdoor recreational activities around town. It's easy to fill a couple of days exploring and having fun with the kids. Kid-friendly activities include the zoo, the aerial tram, and several great museums.

Is Marathon or Portland Better for Couples?

Marathon
Portland

Marathon is a very popular place for romance. Also, Portland is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Marathon makes for a fun place to visit for 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.

Portland makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The laid-back, alternative vibe is fun to explore as a couple. There are independent bookstores, nice parks, and plenty of outdoor activities to choose from. Couples who enjoy an eclectic city, breweries, and nature, will find a lot to do in town.

Is Marathon or Portland Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Marathon
Portland

Portland is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Marathon is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Portland is very popular with the backpacker crowd. The town has drawn young explorers for years, and backpackers who like to step away from the mainstream will feel right at home here.

Marathon is not a backpacker-friendly destination.


Is Marathon or Portland Better for Students?

Marathon
Portland

Portland is a nice place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Marathon is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Portland. It's a young and relaxed city that attracts independent thinkers. There are many bookstores and breweries around town. The cost of living can be a bit high though.

Marathon is not popular with students.

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

Marathon
Portland

Portland is a nice place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Marathon is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Portland offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The town has a bus and light rail system as well the Aerial tram.

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

Is Marathon or Portland a more walkable city?

Marathon
Portland

Portland is great for its walkability. However, Marathon is not a good destination for its high level of walkability.

Portland is very walkable. It is quite walkable, particularly in the tourist areas such as Downtown, Pearl, and Old Town Chinatown.

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 Portland Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Portland or Marathon?

How long in Marathon or Portland?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Marathon and Portland. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Marathon than in Portland. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Marathon, and 2-3 days is enough time in Portland.

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


  • How many days in Marathon or Portland? Ideal Length of Stay
    Marathon 3-7 
    Portland 2-3

One day in Marathon or Portland?

The beautiful island of Marathon 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.

The city of Portland offers nightlife and live music. 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 Marathon or Portland?

Marathon is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

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

Five days in Marathon or Portland?

Marathon is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Marathon, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Portland 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 Portland?

Marathon is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Marathon has to offer. This island offers something for everyone.

Portland 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 Tours for Seniors to United States of America, The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America, The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas.


Which place is cheaper, Portland or Marathon?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Marathon Prices
    USA Prices
    Portland Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Marathon $195
    Portland $211

The average daily cost (per person) in Marathon is $195, while the average daily cost in Portland is $211. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Marathon and Portland in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Marathon $76
    Portland $97
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Marathon $152
    Portland $194
Compare Hotels in Marathon and Portland

Looking for a hotel in Marathon or Portland? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Marathon


Hotels in Portland


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Marathon Hotel Prices and Portland Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Marathon $47
    Portland $28

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Portland

Also for Portland, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer from Portland Airport (PDX) to Astoria Port: $226
  • Private Transfer from Astoria Cruise Port to Portland city hotels: $226
  • Private Transfer from Portland City Hotels to Astoria Cruise Port: $226
  • Portland Airport (PDX) to Portland downtown - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $91
  • Portland Airport (PDX) to Beaverton hotel - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $91
  • Portland Airport (PDX) to Tigard hotel or address - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $91
  • Portland Airport (PDX) to Lake Oswego - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $91
  • Portland Airport (PDX) to Beaverton hotel or address - Arrival Private Transfer: $46
  • Beaverton hotel to Portland Airport (PDX) - Departure Private Transfer: $46
  • Portland Airport (PDX) to Tigard hotel or address - Arrival Private Transfer: $46
  • Tigard hotel or address to Portland Airport (PDX) - Departure Private Transfer: $46
  • Portland Airport (PDX) to Lake Oswego - Arrival Private Transfer: $46

Is it cheaper to fly into Marathon or Portland?

Prices for flights to both Portland and Marathon change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Marathon $89
    Portland $74

Typical Food Prices in Portland

For Portland, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Afternoon Drinks (for 2)
    $9.50

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Portland

For Portland, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Walking Food Tour – Warm Donuts & History: $57
  • Walking Pizza Tour: $75
  • Pasta Making Cooking Class at a Local Brewery: $75
  • Westside Food Tour Like a Local: $90
  • Downtown Food Tour of 6 Local Favorites Dishes: $100
  • Portland Downtown Food Tour: 6 Tastings of Local & Global Flavors: $109
  • Alphabet District Food Tour: $119
  • 2.5-hour Dinner Cruise on Willamette River: $127
  • Willamette River 2.5-hour Dinner Cruise: $127
  • All-Inclusive Downtown Portland Food Tour: $128

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Marathon $27
    Portland $25

Tours and Activities in Marathon

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Marathon.

  • Florida: Sunset Champagne Cruise on the Marathon Mermaid: $82
  • Intro to Foilboarding Experience: $214
  • Rhum Runner Aqua Park Adventure: $38
  • Snorkeling Adventure by Boat at Sombrero Reef: $89

Tours and Activities in Portland

For Portland, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • 2-hour Brunch Cruise on Willamette River: $104
  • 2-hour Lunch Cruise on Willamette River: $87
  • 7 Wonders of the Gorge 3.5-hour Jetboat Cruise: $90
  • 90 Minute Sailing Tour of Portland: $99
  • A Guided Walking Tour of Vibrant Downtown Portland: $44
  • Afternoon Half-Day Multnomah Falls and Columbia River Gorge Waterfalls Tour from Portland: $85
  • Astoria Full Day Private Tour : $169
  • Best of Private Walking Tour with a Local: $107
  • Capture your Oregon Adventures in a Magical Place: $189
  • Coffee Roasters of Portland Eastside Walking Tour : $55
  • Coffee, Donuts & Chocolate Tour : $69
  • Columbia Gorge Waterfalls and Mt. Hood Tour - Full Day: $129

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Marathon $24
    Portland $17

Sample the Local Flavors in Portland

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Portland:

  • Power Through Portland Bar Crawl: $12
  • Private or Shared Party Bike Pub Crawl: $25
  • Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $30
  • Oregon Priority Wine Tasting Pass: $40
  • Haunted Underground Shanghai Tunnel Tour with Brewery Tastings: $48
  • Guided Bike Tour with Brewery Visits: $65
  • Fun Pasta Making Class at a Local Brewery in Portland: $75
  • Fun Sushi Making Class at a Local Brewery in Portland: $75
  • Sushi Making Class at a Local Brewery: $75
  • Portland, Maine: Old Port Brewery & Pub Walking Tour: $99
  • Portland, Maine: Local Brewery & Spirits Bus Tour: $99
  • Urban Wine Tasting Tour: $139


When comparing the travel costs between Marathon and Portland, we can see that Portland is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Marathon or Portland?

Portland has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Marathon. When comparing the sizes of Marathon and Portland, 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 Portland?

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 Portland in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Marathon and Portland. The beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Marathon this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Portland for the hiking, the small town charm, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Marathon is a little warmer than Portland in the summer. The daily temperature in Marathon averages around 84°F (29°C) in July, and Portland fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Portland this time of the year. In Marathon, it's very sunny this time of the year. Marathon usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Portland during summer. Marathon gets 328 hours of sunny skies, while Portland receives 338 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Marathon usually receives more rain than Portland. Marathon gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Marathon 84°F (29°C) 
    Portland 68°F (20°C)

Should I visit Marathon or Portland in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Marathon as well as Portland. Many travelers come to Marathon for the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, many visitors come to Portland in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Marathon is much warmer than Portland. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Marathon in October average around 80°F (27°C), and Portland averages at about 55°F (13°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Marathon this time of the year. In the autumn, Marathon often gets more sunshine than Portland. Marathon gets 258 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland receives 155 hours of full sun.

Marathon receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Marathon usually gets more rain in October than Portland. Marathon gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Marathon 80°F (27°C) 
    Portland 55°F (13°C)

Should I visit Marathon or Portland in the Winter?

Both Portland and Marathon are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Marathon in the winter for the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Portland for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Portland can be very cold during winter. In January, Marathon is generally much warmer than Portland. Daily temperatures in Marathon average around 70°F (21°C), and Portland fluctuates around 40°F (4°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Marathon. Marathon usually receives more sunshine than Portland during winter. Marathon gets 252 hours of sunny skies, while Portland receives 86 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Portland. In January, Marathon usually receives less rain than Portland. Marathon gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Marathon 70°F (21°C) 
    Portland 40°F (4°C)

Should I visit Marathon or Portland in the Spring?

Both Portland and Marathon during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Marathon for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Portland because of the small town charm and the natural beauty.

Marathon is much warmer than Portland in the spring. The daily temperature in Marathon averages around 77°F (25°C) in April, and Portland fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

In Portland, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Marathon. In the spring, Marathon often gets more sunshine than Portland. Marathon gets 326 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Portland receives 231 hours of full sun.

Marathon usually gets less rain in April than Portland. Marathon gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Portland receives 2.4 inches (61 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Marathon 77°F (25°C) 
    Portland 51°F (11°C)

Typical Weather for Portland and Marathon

Marathon Portland
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 70°F (21°C) 1.7 inches (43 mm) 40°F (4°C) 5.2 inches (132 mm)
Feb 71°F (21°C) 1.4 inches (36 mm) 44°F (7°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm)
Mar 74°F (23°C) 1.7 inches (42 mm) 47°F (9°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Apr 77°F (25°C) 0.8 inches (21 mm) 51°F (11°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm)
May 81°F (27°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 57°F (14°C) 2 inches (51 mm)
Jun 83°F (28°C) 4.5 inches (114 mm) 64°F (18°C) 1.5 inches (39 mm)
Jul 84°F (29°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 68°F (20°C) 0.7 inches (18 mm)
Aug 84°F (29°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 69°F (20°C) 1 inches (25 mm)
Sep 83°F (29°C) 5.7 inches (144 mm) 63°F (17°C) 1.7 inches (44 mm)
Oct 80°F (27°C) 5.1 inches (129 mm) 55°F (13°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Nov 76°F (24°C) 2 inches (50 mm) 46°F (8°C) 5.4 inches (136 mm)
Dec 72°F (22°C) 1.4 inches (35 mm) 40°F (5°C) 6.1 inches (156 mm)