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

Should you visit Marathon or Winnipeg?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Marathon or Winnipeg, 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 relaxing, quaint, and beautiful island. The beauty of Marathon is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the beaches, nightlife, and food. See Marathon travel costs.

Winnipeg

Winnipeg is a friendly, welcoming, and cultural city. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food. See Winnipeg travel costs.

Marathon and Winnipeg: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Marathon or Winnipeg?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Marathon. Although Marathon and Winnipeg are popular destinations, Marathon has more sights and attractions for tourists. Marathon is very popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Winnipeg attracts visitors for its museums and attractions and shopping. Marathon is more touristy than Winnipeg and is known for its Loggerhead sea turtles, the Dolphin Research Center, Sombrero Beach, and its many places to scuba dive and snorkel. It is also well known for The Dolphin Research Center. Winnipeg is famous for its festivals, culture, and railway connections.

How is Marathon different from Winnipeg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Marathon
Winnipeg

Winnipeg 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 Winnipeg can be an interesting and educational experience. There are some unique museums around town including the Canadian Museum for Human Rights. Other popular museums are the Manitoba Museum and the Manitoba Children's Museum.

Marathon does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Marathon
Winnipeg

Both Marathon and Winnipeg offer a number of nice 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 Winnipeg. You'll find a wide variety of restaurants around town that serve a mix of local dishes and international cuisines. A must-see part of the city is the historic Forks Market.

Is Marathon or Winnipeg Better for Nightlife?

Marathon
Winnipeg

The vibe at night is nice in both Marathon and Winnipeg.

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 Winnipeg. The city has an active nightlife, even during the winter months. You'll find dance clubs, bars, and pubs around town that are popular with locals and visitors alike.

Is Marathon or Winnipeg Better for Resorts?

Marathon
Winnipeg

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

Winnipeg is not a resort destination.


Is Marathon or Winnipeg Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Marathon
Winnipeg

Marathon is a island with good options for its diving and snorkeling. However, Winnipeg 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.

Winnipeg is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Marathon or Winnipeg Better for Beaches?

Marathon
Winnipeg

Marathon is great for the beach. However, Winnipeg 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.

Winnipeg is not a beach destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Marathon or Winnipeg?

Marathon
Winnipeg

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

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Winnipeg. You'll find all of the standard shopping options around town, from boutiques to big box shops and even some outlets.

Marathon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Marathon or Winnipeg More Beautiful?

Marathon
Winnipeg

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

The beauty of Marathon is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The waters are blue and the setting is peaceful, making this area truly beautiful.

Winnipeg is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Marathon or Winnipeg Better for Families?

Marathon
Winnipeg

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

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Marathon is very family-friendly. 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.

Winnipeg is a family-friendly place to visit. Kids will love a visit to the Assiniboine Park Zoo or the Manitoba Children's Museum. There are a number of parks and playgrounds around town as well as the Prairie Dog Central Railway. There are many kid-friendly restaurants in the city as well.

Is Marathon or Winnipeg Better for Couples?

Marathon
Winnipeg

Marathon is great for its romantic activities. Also, Winnipeg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for couples.

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.

Winnipeg is a good island for couples to visit. Many couples enjoy wandering through Assiniboine Park. There are also many romantic restaurants and spas for couples.


Is Marathon or Winnipeg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Marathon
Winnipeg

Winnipeg is a nice place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Marathon is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

It's common for backpackers to visit Winnipeg. While it's often overlooked by backpackers, there are a couple of hostels around town.

Marathon is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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

Marathon
Winnipeg

Winnipeg 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 Winnipeg. There's a bus system around town, but many visitors prefer to have a vehicle.

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

Is Marathon or Winnipeg a more walkable city?

Marathon
Winnipeg

Marathon and Winnipeg are reasonable 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.

Winnipeg is generally not very walkable. While there are a few walkable neighborhoods, the city itself is not particularly walkable, particularly during the cold winter months.


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

Should I spend more time in Winnipeg or Marathon?

How long in Marathon or Winnipeg?

It's fun to spend time in either Marathon or Winnipeg. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Marathon due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Marathon, and 2-4 days is enough time in Winnipeg.

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


  • How many days in Marathon or Winnipeg? Ideal Length of Stay
    Marathon 3-7 
    Winnipeg 2-4

One day in Marathon or Winnipeg?

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 Winnipeg offers food and shopping. 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 Winnipeg?

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.

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

Five days in Marathon or Winnipeg?

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.

Winnipeg 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 Winnipeg?

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.

Winnipeg 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, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Canada, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Winnipeg 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
    Winnipeg Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Marathon $195
    Winnipeg $255

The average daily cost (per person) in Marathon is $195, while the average daily cost in Winnipeg is $255. 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 Winnipeg in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Marathon $76
    Winnipeg $92
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Marathon $152
    Winnipeg $184
Compare Hotels in Marathon and Winnipeg

Looking for a hotel in Marathon or Winnipeg? 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 Winnipeg


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 Winnipeg Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Marathon $47
    Winnipeg -

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Winnipeg

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

  • Winnipeg One way Private transfer from/to the Airport: $200
  • Winnipeg Airport (YWG) to Winnipeg accomodation - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $165
  • Private Transfer from Winnipeg Airport (YWG) to Winnipeg Hotels: $97
  • Private Transfer from Winnipeg Hotels to Winnipeg Airport (YWG): $97
  • Winnipeg accomodation to Winnipeg Airport (YWG) - Departure Private Transfer: $83
  • Winnipeg Airport (YWG) to Winnipeg accomodation - Arrival Private Transfer: $83
  • Private Transfer from Winnipeg Airport to Winnipeg Accommodation : $37

Is it cheaper to fly into Marathon or Winnipeg?

Prices for flights to both Winnipeg 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
    Winnipeg $9.33

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Marathon $27
    Winnipeg $2.52

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 Winnipeg

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

  • Discover Assiniboine Park with a Smartphone Audio Tour: $6.61
  • Explore The Challenge of Moderninity with Walking Tours in Winnipeg, MB: $6.61
  • Manitoba Legislative Grounds: Smartphone Audio Tour: $6.61
  • Murder Mystery Detective Experience in Winnipeg MB: $11
  • Private City Tour in Winnipeg: $96
  • The Forks Historic Site: a Smartphone Audio Tour: $6.61
  • The Sights of South a Smartphone Audio Tour: $6.61
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Winnipeg by Operation City Quest: $10
  • Walk 4 Smartphone Audio Walking Tours: $19
  • Winnipeg Private Walking Tour with a Local: $40
  • Winnipeg in the Limelight: a Smartphone Audio Walking Tour: $6.61
  • Winnipeg's Most Haunted: a Smartphone Audio Ghost Tour: $6.61

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Marathon $24
    Winnipeg -


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

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


Which is Bigger, Marathon or Winnipeg?

Winnipeg has a larger population, and is about 60 times larger than the population of Marathon. When comparing the sizes of Marathon and Winnipeg, 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 Winnipeg?

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 Winnipeg in the Summer?

Both Winnipeg and Marathon are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Marathon this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Winnipeg for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Marathon is a little warmer than Winnipeg. Typically, the summer temperatures in Marathon in July average around 84°F (29°C), and Winnipeg averages at about 21°C (71°F).

It's quite sunny in Winnipeg. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Marathon. Marathon usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Winnipeg during summer. Marathon gets 328 hours of sunny skies, while Winnipeg receives 328 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Marathon usually receives more rain than Winnipeg. Marathon gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Winnipeg receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Marathon 84°F (29°C) 
    Winnipeg 21°C (71°F)

Should I visit Marathon or Winnipeg in the Autumn?

Both Winnipeg and Marathon during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Marathon for the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Winnipeg in the autumn for the shopping scene.

In October, Marathon is generally much warmer than Winnipeg. Daily temperatures in Marathon average around 80°F (27°C), and Winnipeg fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

It's quite sunny in Marathon. In the autumn, Marathon often gets more sunshine than Winnipeg. Marathon gets 258 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Winnipeg receives 147 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Marathon. Marathon usually gets more rain in October than Winnipeg. Marathon gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Winnipeg receives 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Marathon 80°F (27°C) 
    Winnipeg 7°C (45°F)

Should I visit Marathon or Winnipeg in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Marathon and Winnipeg. Many visitors come to Marathon in the winter for the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Winnipeg for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Winnipeg can be very cold during winter. Marathon is much warmer than Winnipeg in the winter. The daily temperature in Marathon averages around 70°F (21°C) in January, and Winnipeg fluctuates around -17°C (2°F).

In Marathon, it's very sunny this time of the year. Marathon usually receives more sunshine than Winnipeg during winter. Marathon gets 252 hours of sunny skies, while Winnipeg receives 115 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Marathon usually receives more rain than Winnipeg. Marathon gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Winnipeg receives 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Marathon 70°F (21°C) 
    Winnipeg -17°C (2°F)

Should I visit Marathon or Winnipeg in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Marathon as well as Winnipeg. Most visitors come to Marathon for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Marathon is much warmer than Winnipeg. Typically, the spring temperatures in Marathon in April average around 77°F (25°C), and Winnipeg averages at about 5°C (42°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Winnipeg. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Marathon this time of the year. In the spring, Marathon often gets more sunshine than Winnipeg. Marathon gets 326 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Winnipeg receives 248 hours of full sun.

Marathon usually gets less rain in April than Winnipeg. Marathon gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Winnipeg receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Marathon 77°F (25°C) 
    Winnipeg 5°C (42°F)

Typical Weather for Winnipeg and Marathon

Marathon Winnipeg
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 70°F (21°C) 1.7 inches (43 mm) -17°C (2°F) 19 mm (0.7 in)
Feb 71°F (21°C) 1.4 inches (36 mm) -14°C (8°F) 15 mm (0.6 in)
Mar 74°F (23°C) 1.7 inches (42 mm) -6°C (22°F) 23 mm (0.9 in)
Apr 77°F (25°C) 0.8 inches (21 mm) 5°C (42°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
May 81°F (27°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 13°C (56°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 83°F (28°C) 4.5 inches (114 mm) 19°C (65°F) 84 mm (3.3 in)
Jul 84°F (29°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 21°C (71°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Aug 84°F (29°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 20°C (68°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Sep 83°F (29°C) 5.7 inches (144 mm) 14°C (57°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Oct 80°F (27°C) 5.1 inches (129 mm) 7°C (45°F) 30 mm (1.2 in)
Nov 76°F (24°C) 2 inches (50 mm) -3°C (26°F) 21 mm (0.8 in)
Dec 72°F (22°C) 1.4 inches (35 mm) -13°C (9°F) 19 mm (0.7 in)