A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Mazatlan vs. Albuquerque for Old Town, Attractions, Food, and Couples

Should you visit Mazatlan or Albuquerque?

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

Should I visit Mazatlan or Albuquerque? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Mazatlan

Mazatlan is a historical, cultural, and authentic city. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums. See Mazatlan travel costs.

Albuquerque

Albuquerque is a cosmopolitan, cultural, and outdoorsy town. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and museums. See Albuquerque travel costs.

Mazatlan and Albuquerque: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Mazatlan or Albuquerque?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Mazatlan than Albuquerque. While Albuquerque is larger than Mazatlan, Mazatlan has more sights and attractions for tourists. Mazatlan is very popular for its scuba diving & snorkeling and beaches, while Albuquerque attracts visitors for its historical sights, hiking, shopping, and quaint atmosphere. Mazatlan is famous for its historic center, authenticity, and surfing areas. It is also well known for the Malecon. Albuquerque is famous for its adobe architecture, artisan shops, fascinating cultural venues, and surrounding desert landscapes.

How is Mazatlan different from Albuquerque?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Albuquerque and Mazatlan. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Mazatlan or Albuquerque?

Plenty of people visit the superb sights and museums in both Mazatlan and Albuquerque.

Mazatlan offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. There are colonial buildings around the Centro Historico. You should also check out the Historic Cathedral and the Angela Peralta Theater.

Many visitors head to Albuquerque specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The old town has a lot of history including the San Felipe de Neri Church. Also worth visiting is the Albuquerque Museum of Art and History, the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, Unser Racing Museum, and the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science.

Is the Food Better in Mazatlan or Albuquerque? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Mazatlan and Albuquerque both to be superb destinations.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Mazatlan. Stewed meats and shrimp are a big part of the cuisine here. Many recipes have a little bit of spice. The restaurants around town are authentic and local, making for a great dining experience.

Albuquerque has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The city's local cuisine combines Native American and Spanish flavors to make a variety of unique specialties. You should try the green chili stew, breakfast burrito, sopaipillas, and blue corn pancakes.

Is Mazatlan or Albuquerque Better for Nightlife?

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Mazatlan and Albuquerque.

Mazatlan has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There are plenty of bars and clubs around town, particularly along the beach. Like anywhere else, remember to stay cautious late at night around town. This is considered to be one of the less safe parts of Mexico.

If you're looking for night time activities Albuquerque has a few options to choose from. Head downtown and to the Nob Hill neighborhood for wine bars, breweries, and billiard halls. These areas have the best nightlife scene and they're also compact enough to explore on foot.

Is Mazatlan or Albuquerque Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Mazatlan is a good destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Albuquerque is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Mazatlan. Most of the diving takes place around the Pajaros, Venados and Lobos islands. This is where you'll see the most tropical fish.

Albuquerque is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Mazatlan or Albuquerque Better for Beaches?

Mazatlan is a great city for its beaches. However, Albuquerque is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Mazatlan for it's beautiful beaches. There are many stretches of beach around town. Most notable is the 13 miles that run along Malecon where there's a boardwalk. Surfing is also popular in the area.

Albuquerque is not a beach destination.

Is Mazatlan or Albuquerque Better for its Old Town?

Albuquerque is a world-class destination for its old town. Also, Mazatlan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town charm.

The historic old town of Albuquerque is revered around the world. There is a wonderful old town where the city's first neighborhood was established. It dates back to the early 1700's and has its roots in Spanish colonial history. The area has many adobe houses, great local restaurants, and artisan shops.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Mazatlan. It's a historic port city with a charming colonial old town.

Is Mazatlan or Albuquerque Better for Hiking?

Albuquerque is a popular place for its hiking experiences. However, Mazatlan is not a hiking destination.

Albuquerque is a good destination for hiking. The desert landscape is varied and beautiful. Popular trails in the area include Tree Spring Trail, Birdhouse Ridge, and West Ridge.

Mazatlan is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Mazatlan or Albuquerque?

Albuquerque is well known for its shopping opportunities. Also, Mazatlan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

Albuquerque is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city's old town has many cultural artisan shops where you can buy local items. It's a fun and unique shopping experience, and though it sometimes feels a bit touristy, there are many local shops that offer an authentic experience.

Mazatlan has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are local shops, big box stores, and souvenir vendors where you can pick up anything you may need or items to commemorate your trip.

Is Mazatlan or Albuquerque Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Mazatlan or Albuquerque.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Mazatlan. Kids will enjoy the all-inclusive resorts and the waterfront setting. There are also many cultural opportunities such as markets, history, and shows. The food is very kid-friendly as well.

Albuquerque offers lots of family activities. The city has a number of nature centers as well as the Albuquerque BioPark Zoo. Outside of town there are many parks and natural areas to explore.

Is Mazatlan or Albuquerque Better for Couples?

Albuquerque is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Mazatlan is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Couples visit Albuquerque frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Surrounded by natural beauty, and filled with culture and charm, this city makes a great romantic getaway. It's particularly wonderful during the famous International Balloon Fiesta.

Mazatlan is a good city for couples to visit. The resorts are romantic and the beaches are stunning. If you're looking for an idyllic escape that also has culture, authenticity, and great food, then this is your spot.

Is Mazatlan or Albuquerque Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Mazatlan is a great city for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Albuquerque is not known for backpackers.

Mazatlan is very popular with the backpacker crowd. The laid back atmosphere makes this a great stopover for backpackers who want to experience the Mexican culture. Stick to the touristy areas if possible.

Albuquerque is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are campgrounds around that offer affordable and fun places to stay, but in general this town isn't particularly backpacker friendly.

Is Mazatlan or Albuquerque Better for Students?

Albuquerque is a popular place for students. However, Mazatlan is not popular with students.

Albuquerque is popular with students. It offers a unique cultural environment that students can appreciate. There are also many outdoor recreational opportunities.

Mazatlan is not popular with students.

Is Mazatlan or Albuquerque Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Mazatlan is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Albuquerque is not known for its public transit.

While Mazatlan offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are city buses around town.

Public transit is generally limited in Albuquerque. ABQ Ride is the bus system around town, but most visitors prefer to have their own car.

Is Mazatlan or Albuquerque a more walkable city?

Mazatlan is a great city for its walkability. Also, Albuquerque is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its high level of walkability.

Mazatlan is very walkable. The city is relatively walkable.

Albuquerque is a somewhat walkable place. Walkable areas include the old town, the area around the University of New Mexico, and the uptown area.

For even more information, also check out Is Mazatlan Worth Visiting? and Is Albuquerque Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Albuquerque or Mazatlan?

How long in Mazatlan or Albuquerque?

It's fun to spend time in either Mazatlan or Albuquerque. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Mazatlan due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Mazatlan, and 2-4 days is enough time in Albuquerque.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Mazatlan than Albuquerque 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 Mazatlan.

One day in Mazatlan or Albuquerque?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the authentic city of Mazatlan. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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 town of Albuquerque offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 Mazatlan or Albuquerque?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the authentic destination of Mazatlan. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This city offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Albuquerque is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Albuquerque, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Mazatlan or Albuquerque?

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the cultural city of Mazatlan. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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.

Albuquerque 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 Mazatlan or Albuquerque?

Many people enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting Mazatlan. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people come for the beaches. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Albuquerque is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Mexico, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Mexico, The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Mazatlan or Albuquerque?

Albuquerque has a larger population, and is about 37% larger than the population of Mazatlan. When comparing the sizes of Mazatlan and Albuquerque, 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.