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

Should you visit Marathon or San Antonio?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Marathon or San Antonio, 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. It's also known for scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and nightlife. See Marathon travel costs.

San Antonio

San Antonio is a fun, historic, and cultural city. San Antonio is a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and live music. See San Antonio travel costs.

Marathon and San Antonio: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Marathon or San Antonio?

Tourists will generally find more to do in San Antonio. Although Marathon and San Antonio are both popular with visitors, San Antonio has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. San Antonio is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, music, historical sights, and shopping, while Marathon is known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty. Marathon is more touristy than San Antonio and is popular for its Loggerhead sea turtles, the Dolphin Research Center, Sombrero Beach, and its many places to scuba dive and snorkel. San Antonio is popular for being the home to the Alamo, the popular RiverWalk area, and several world-class amusement parks. It is also home to The Alamo.

How is Marathon different from San Antonio?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

San Antonio is great for its historical sights. However, Marathon does not have museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to San Antonio can be an interesting and educational experience. It is known for its role in American history, and the city is famous as the location of the Alamo. It's also where you'll find the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park & Mission Trail, the San Antonio Museum of Art, Witte Museum, and the Guinness World Records Museum, among others.

Marathon does not have museums and landmarks.

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

San Antonio is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Marathon is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in San Antonio. You'll find a mix of amazing and authentic Mexican food, simpler Tex Mex, and a number of Hill Country specialties. The city is filled with comfort food and the restaurants reflect the diverse character of the population. Popular local dishes include tacos, sweet potato fries, and chicken fried steak.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Marathon. There are restaurants with waterfront terraces, raw bars, and other seafood eateries where you can enjoy fresh caught fish for a reasonable price.

Is Marathon or San Antonio Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is good in both Marathon and San Antonio.

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 San Antonio. The city's nightlife scene is diverse, with dance halls, breweries, and clubs. It has seen a recent boom in dance clubs, so there are plenty of places to party hard, or to have a more relaxing night out. The RiverWalk is at the heart of the city's nightlife scene, particularly for tourists. Many conferences stay at hotels near the RiverWalk, so it's not uncommon to see professionals out and about after a day of networking.

Is Marathon or San Antonio Better for Music?

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

The music scene helps keep San Antonio active and fun. It's worth checking out The Aztec Theater, Sam's Burger Joint, and 502 Bar.

Marathon is not a live music destination.

Is Marathon or San Antonio Better for Resorts?

Marathon is a great destination for its resorts. However, San Antonio 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.

San Antonio is not a resort destination.

Is Marathon or San Antonio Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Marathon is a good destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, San Antonio 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.

San Antonio is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Marathon or San Antonio Better for Beaches?

Marathon is a great destination for its beaches. However, San Antonio 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.

San Antonio is not a beach destination.

Is Marathon or San Antonio Better for its Old Town?

San Antonio is a nice place to visit for its historic old town. However, Marathon does not have a historic old town.

San Antonio is a good destination for visiting its old town. The city is famous for its River Walk, which may feel slightly cheesy, but is still a unique and mesmerizing place to wander.

Marathon does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Marathon or San Antonio?

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

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in San Antonio. From souvenir shops to local boutiques and chain stores, there are several shopping options around town. Check out the historic Market Square or the shops at Rivercenter for some of the city's most interesting shopping.

Marathon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Marathon or San Antonio More Beautiful?

Marathon is a great destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, San Antonio is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

San Antonio is a beautiful place to visit, too. The RiverWalk feels almost like a European city and its filled with colors and festiveness.

Is Marathon or San Antonio Better for Families?

San Antonio is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Marathon is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its family-friendly activities.

San Antonio is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. The RiverWalk is a fun family-friendly area. There's also Six Flags, SeaWorld and the San Antonio Zoo as well as a number of museums and other amusement parks in the area. It's easy to spend days having a great family vacation in this area and you can combine history, culture, and entertainment all in one setting.

Marathon is a very kid-friendly island. 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.

Is Marathon or San Antonio Better for Couples?

Marathon is a great destination for romance. Also, San Antonio is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Marathon frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

San Antonio makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples will enjoy taking a boat ride and exploring the many sites around town. The RiverWalk has many restaurants and a great atmosphere for a date night. There's also the botanical gardens and many outdoor spaces to explore.

Is Marathon or San Antonio Better for Students?

San Antonio 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 San Antonio. There are a couple of colleges in the area. This is also a major conference destination so it's possible to network and meet other professionals.

Marathon is not popular with students.

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

San Antonio 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 San Antonio. Buses connect most of the city's tourist attractions, but you'll find life much easier if you have your own car.

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

Is Marathon or San Antonio a more walkable city?

Marathon and San Antonio are decent when it comes to walkability.

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

San Antonio is generally not very walkable. If you stick to the downtown area you will be fine getting around on foot. Outside of that area, you'll need a car.

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

Should I spend more time in San Antonio or Marathon?

How long in Marathon or San Antonio?

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

Families should spend more time in San Antonio than Marathon. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in San Antonio, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in San Antonio 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 San Antonio.

One day in Marathon or San Antonio?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the beautiful island of Marathon. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

The city of San Antonio offers museums and nightlife. 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 San Antonio?

Visitors enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the relaxing destination of Marathon. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This island offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

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

Five days in Marathon or San Antonio?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife when visiting the beautiful island of Marathon. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

San Antonio 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 San Antonio?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Marathon. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this island.

San Antonio 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 G Adventures Tours to United States of America, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Marathon and San Antonio, we can see that Marathon is more expensive. And not only is San Antonio much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to San Antonio would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in San Antonio 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 San Antonio.

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

Which is Bigger, Marathon or San Antonio?

San Antonio has a larger population, and is about 120 times larger than the population of Marathon. When comparing the sizes of Marathon and San Antonio, 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 San Antonio?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Marathon or San Antonio in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Marathon as well as San Antonio. Many travelers come to Marathon for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to San Antonio in the summer for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences.

Marathon is around the same temperature as San Antonio in the summer. The daily temperature in Marathon averages around 84°F (29°C) in July, and San Antonio fluctuates around 87°F (31°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in San Antonio. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Marathon this time of the year. In the summer, Marathon often gets around the same amount of sunshine as San Antonio. Marathon gets 328 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Antonio receives 307 hours of full sun.

Marathon usually gets more rain in July than San Antonio. Marathon gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while San Antonio receives 2.2 inches (57 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Marathon or San Antonio in the Autumn?

Both San Antonio and Marathon are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Marathon in the autumn for the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to San Antonio for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Marathon is a little warmer than San Antonio. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Marathon in October average around 80°F (27°C), and San Antonio averages at about 73°F (23°C).

It's quite sunny in San Antonio. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Marathon. Marathon usually receives more sunshine than San Antonio during autumn. Marathon gets 258 hours of sunny skies, while San Antonio receives 213 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Marathon. In October, Marathon usually receives more rain than San Antonio. Marathon gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while San Antonio receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Marathon or San Antonio in the Winter?

Both San Antonio and Marathon during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Marathon for the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to San Antonio because of the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Marathon is generally much warmer than San Antonio. Daily temperatures in Marathon average around 70°F (21°C), and San Antonio fluctuates around 54°F (12°C).

It's quite sunny in Marathon. In the winter, Marathon often gets more sunshine than San Antonio. Marathon gets 252 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Antonio receives 155 hours of full sun.

Marathon usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as San Antonio. Marathon gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while San Antonio receives 1.8 inches (45 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Marathon or San Antonio in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Marathon and San Antonio. The spring months attract visitors to Marathon because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Furthermore, the natural beauty are the main draw to San Antonio this time of year.

Marathon is around the same temperature as San Antonio in the spring. The daily temperature in Marathon averages around 77°F (25°C) in April, and San Antonio fluctuates around 74°F (23°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in San Antonio this time of the year. In Marathon, it's very sunny this time of the year. Marathon usually receives more sunshine than San Antonio during spring. Marathon gets 326 hours of sunny skies, while San Antonio receives 216 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Marathon usually receives less rain than San Antonio. Marathon gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while San Antonio receives 2.4 inches (60 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for San Antonio and Marathon