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

Should you visit Marathon or Vancouver?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Marathon or Vancouver, 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 beaches, nightlife, and food. See Marathon travel costs.

Vancouver

Vancouver is a diverse, friendly, and outdoorsy city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Vancouver is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food. See Vancouver travel costs.

Marathon and Vancouver: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Marathon or Vancouver?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Vancouver. Although Marathon and Vancouver are both popular with visitors, Vancouver has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Vancouver is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, hiking, shopping, and big city activities, while Marathon is known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Marathon is popular for its Loggerhead sea turtles, the Dolphin Research Center, Sombrero Beach, and its many places to scuba dive and snorkel. Vancouver is popular for its beautiful setting, sweeping views, and welcoming atmosphere. It is also home to Stanley Park.

How is Marathon different from Vancouver?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Vancouver is a must-visit destination for its historical sights. However, Marathon does not have museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit Vancouver from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. There are tons of museums and sights around town such as the Vancouver Aquarium, the Museum of Anthropology, the Museum of Vancouver, and Science World. Also make sure you take a walk over the Capilano Suspension Bridge.

Marathon does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Vancouver 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 Vancouver. You'll find diverse restaurants and fresh ingredients. Local seafood is a staple in many restaurants so make sure you try the prawns, salmon, and even sea urchin. Asian food is also excellent around town. Sushi, Japanese hot dogs, and dim sum are all worth sampling.

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 Vancouver Better for Nightlife?

Vancouver is great for nightlife. Also, Marathon is not as popular, but is still a nice island for nightlife and partying.

Many people head to Vancouver for the nightlife scene. The city has a vibrant nightlife scene. Most of the activity is centered around The Granville Entertainment District in the downtown area. It runs along Granville Street between Robson Street and Davie Street. In the area you'll find a high concentration of bars and nightclubs.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Marathon. Popular nightlife venues include JJ’s Dog House & Sports Bar, Brass Monkey, and Cabana Club.

Is Marathon or Vancouver Better for Resorts?

Marathon is great for its luxury resorts. However, Vancouver 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.

Vancouver is not a resort destination.

Is Marathon or Vancouver Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

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

Vancouver is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Marathon or Vancouver Better for Beaches?

Marathon is great for its beaches. However, Vancouver 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.

Vancouver is not a beach destination.

Is Marathon or Vancouver Better for Hiking?

Vancouver is a must-visit destination for hiking. However, Marathon is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Vancouver draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. The city is surrounded by water and mountains, making it one of the best hiking cities in the world. You don't have to go far to enjoy spectacular vistas, serene rainforests, and rugged coastline. The trails range from casual strolls to more strenuous day long hikes.

Marathon is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Marathon or Vancouver?

Vancouver is a must-visit destination for shopping. However, Marathon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Vancouver. The shopping is as diverse as the city itself. You can enjoy strolling through Chinatown, hitting up a public market, or wandering around a large shopping mall.

Marathon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Marathon or Vancouver More Beautiful?

Marathon and Vancouver both are comparable with their great 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.

The beauty of Vancouver is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. It sits between the Pacific Ocean and high reaching mountains, so the city offers spectacular views.

Is Marathon or Vancouver Better for Families?

Marathon and Vancouver are both great destinations for the whole family.

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.

Vancouver is a very kid-friendly island. There are great kid-friendly museums like the Science Museum, as well as outdoor markets, public parks, and easy access to the nearby nature. A visit to Grouse Mountain is a must for many families. You can see the bears, take a gondola, and see the a lumberjack show.

Is Marathon or Vancouver Better for Couples?

Vancouver is a must-visit destination for romance. Also, Marathon is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its romantic activities.

Vancouver has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Most of the activities take advantage of the beautiful outdoor setting. You can take a carriage ride in Stanley Park or visit the Sun Yat Sen Chinese Garden. Eat dim sum in Chinatown and then wander through the diverse neighborhood. End the day with a show at Orpheum Theater.

Marathon is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Is Marathon or Vancouver Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Vancouver is very popular with the backpacker crowd. It's a favorite city for backpackers who enjoy the many outdoor activities. There are also many hostels available around town.

Marathon is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Marathon or Vancouver Better for Students?

Vancouver is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Marathon is not popular with students.

Vancouver is a great city to visit as a student. The cities friendly personality and fun energy make it a great place to study.

Marathon is not popular with students.

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

Vancouver is a must-visit destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Marathon is not a good destination for its public transit.

Vancouver has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. Public transit is efficient and comfortable. The Translink system includes buses, the SeaBus ferry, and the SkyTrain light rail system.

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

Is Marathon or Vancouver a more walkable city?

Vancouver is a must-visit destination for its walkability. However, Marathon is not a good destination for its high level of walkability.

Vancouver is a very easy city to get around on foot. The downtown area is very compact and fun to explore on foot.

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 Vancouver Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Vancouver or Marathon?

How long in Marathon or Vancouver?

In either Marathon or Vancouver, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Marathon than Vancouver because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Marathon, and 3-5 days is enough time in Vancouver.

Couples should spend more time in Vancouver than Marathon. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Vancouver that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Vancouver 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 Vancouver.

One day in Marathon or Vancouver?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the island of Marathon. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Vancouver is a big city with plenty to do. 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 Vancouver?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife around the beautiful destination of Marathon. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Vancouver is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.

Five days in Marathon or Vancouver?

You'll find nightlife and food around the relaxing island of Marathon. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this island makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer.

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

A week in Marathon or Vancouver?

Marathon is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Marathon, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Vancouver 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 10-Day Tours from Vancouver, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Canada.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Marathon or Vancouver?

Vancouver has a larger population, and is about 180 times larger than the population of Marathon. When comparing the sizes of Marathon and Vancouver, 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 Vancouver?

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 Vancouver in the Summer?

Both Vancouver 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 Vancouver in the summer for the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

Marathon is much warmer than Vancouver in the summer. The daily temperature in Marathon averages around 84°F (29°C) in July, and Vancouver fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

It's quite sunny in Vancouver. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Marathon. Marathon usually receives more sunshine than Vancouver during summer. Marathon gets 328 hours of sunny skies, while Vancouver receives 296 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Marathon usually receives more rain than Vancouver. Marathon gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Vancouver receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Marathon or Vancouver in the Autumn?

Both Vancouver 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 Vancouver for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Marathon is much warmer than Vancouver. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Marathon in October average around 80°F (27°C), and Vancouver averages at about 11°C (51°F).

It's quite sunny in Marathon. In the autumn, Marathon often gets more sunshine than Vancouver. Marathon gets 258 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Vancouver receives 124 hours of full sun.

Vancouver gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Marathon. Marathon usually gets less rain in October than Vancouver. Marathon gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Vancouver receives 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Marathon or Vancouver in the Winter?

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

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

In Marathon, it's very sunny this time of the year. Marathon usually receives more sunshine than Vancouver during winter. Marathon gets 252 hours of sunny skies, while Vancouver receives 55 hours of full sun in the winter.

Vancouver receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Marathon usually receives less rain than Vancouver. Marathon gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Vancouver receives 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Marathon or Vancouver in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Marathon as well as Vancouver. The spring months attract visitors to Marathon because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, the activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Vancouver this time of year.

Marathon is much warmer than Vancouver in the spring. The daily temperature in Marathon averages around 77°F (25°C) in April, and Vancouver fluctuates around 9°C (49°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Marathon this time of the year. In the spring, Marathon often gets more sunshine than Vancouver. Marathon gets 326 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Vancouver receives 172 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Vancouver. Marathon usually gets less rain in April than Vancouver. Marathon gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Vancouver receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Vancouver and Marathon