A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Mazatlan vs. Cincinnati for Attractions, Food, Backpackers, and Nightlife

Should you visit Mazatlan or Cincinnati?

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

Should I visit Mazatlan or Cincinnati? 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 cultural, authentic, and historical city. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Mazatlan travel costs.

Cincinnati

Cincinnati is a blue collar, authentic, and hard-working city. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Cincinnati travel costs.

Mazatlan and Cincinnati: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples


Is there more to do in Mazatlan or Cincinnati?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Mazatlan. Although Mazatlan and Cincinnati are about the same size, Mazatlan has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Mazatlan is more touristy than Cincinnati and is known for its historic center, authenticity, and surfing areas. Also, Mazatlan is famous for the Malecon. Cincinnati is well known for its breweries and down-to-earth personality.

How is Mazatlan different from Cincinnati?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Mazatlan
Cincinnati

Plenty of people visit the high quality sights and museums in both Mazatlan and Cincinnati.

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 Cincinnati specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. You'll find both traditional and quirky museums around town. For outside-the-box, check out the American Sign Museum or the Behringer-Crawford Museum. Art museums include the Cincinnati Art Museum, the Contemporary Arts Center, and the Taft Museum of Art. Other popular museums include the Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame, the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, and the Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal.


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

Mazatlan
Cincinnati

Mazatlan is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Cincinnati is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

Cincinnati is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Mixed in with the standard chain and fast food options, you'll find some local restaurants that serve up the iconic Midwestern favorites. For a taste of the town, try Cincinnati chili, barbecue ribs, and a corned beef Reuben.

Is Mazatlan or Cincinnati Better for Nightlife?

Mazatlan
Cincinnati

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

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 Cincinnati has a few options to choose from. The nightlife scene is diverse and includes music venues, breweries, and nightclubs. In addition to the city's downtown, you'll find trendy places to hang out in the Over-the-Rhine neighborhood. Breweries are popular in the city, in part because of its German roots.

Is Mazatlan or Cincinnati Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Mazatlan
Cincinnati

Mazatlan is a popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Cincinnati is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Mazatlan has a few good snorkeling spots. Most of the diving takes place around the Pajaros, Venados and Lobos islands. This is where you'll see the most tropical fish.

Cincinnati is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.


Is Mazatlan or Cincinnati Better for Beaches?

Mazatlan
Cincinnati

Mazatlan is well known for the beach. However, Cincinnati is not a beach destination.

Mazatlan is considered a top beach destination. 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.

Cincinnati is not a beach destination.

Is Mazatlan or Cincinnati Better for its Old Town?

Mazatlan
Cincinnati

Mazatlan is well known for its old town. However, Cincinnati does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Mazatlan. It's a historic port city with a charming colonial old town.

Cincinnati does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Mazatlan or Cincinnati?

Mazatlan
Cincinnati

Shopping is a popular activity in both Cincinnati and Mazatlan.

Mazatlan offers some nice shopping areas. 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.

Cincinnati has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are large shopping malls and retail outlets. You'll also find local boutiques in the Montgomery or Mariemont areas.


Is Mazatlan or Cincinnati Better for Families?

Mazatlan
Cincinnati

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Mazatlan or Cincinnati.

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.

Cincinnati offers lots of family activities. There's a surprising number of kid-friendly activities around town like the Cincinnati Zoo, the Cincinnati Museum Center, Newport Aquarium, and Smale Riverfront Park.

Is Mazatlan or Cincinnati Better for Couples?

Mazatlan
Cincinnati

Mazatlan is a popular place for its romantic activities. However, Cincinnati is not particularly known for couples.

Mazatlan makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Cincinnati is not always the best place to visit for a couple. If you do find yourself in town for a few days, there are several good restaurants and a number of music venues that can keep the visit fun and entertaining.

Is Mazatlan or Cincinnati Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Mazatlan
Cincinnati

Mazatlan is well known for backpackers. Also, Cincinnati is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Mazatlan is a great city to visit for backpackers. 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.

Cincinnati is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are actually a couple of hostels in town for backpackers or students.


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

Mazatlan
Cincinnati

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Mazatlan and Cincinnati.

You'll find some public transit in Mazatlan, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are city buses around town.

While Cincinnati offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are two bus systems around town - the METRO and TANK bus systems. There's also a streetcar that travels through the downtown.

Is Mazatlan or Cincinnati a more walkable city?

Mazatlan
Cincinnati

Mazatlan and Cincinnati both are high quality when exploring on foot.

Mazatlan is a very walkable city. The city is relatively walkable.

Cincinnati is a very walkable destination. There are several surprisingly walkable areas, particularly downtown and the nearby neighborhoods.

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

Should I spend more time in Cincinnati or Mazatlan?

How long in Mazatlan or Cincinnati?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Mazatlan or Cincinnati to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Mazatlan than Cincinnati because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Mazatlan, and 1-2 days is enough time in Cincinnati.

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

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


  • How many days in Mazatlan or Cincinnati? Ideal Length of Stay
    Mazatlan 3-5 
    Cincinnati 1-2

One day in Mazatlan or Cincinnati?

With food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the cultural city of Mazatlan, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

The city of Cincinnati offers food and shopping. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


A weekend in Mazatlan or Cincinnati?

With scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the destination of Mazatlan, there's plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

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

Five days in Mazatlan or Cincinnati?

Mazatlan, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Visiting the old town is also a must. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Cincinnati 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 Cincinnati?

Mazatlan is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Cincinnati 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 Food and Culinary Tours in Mexico, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Mexico, The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, and The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Cincinnati or Mazatlan?

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

  • Mazatlan Prices
    Mexico Prices
    Cincinnati Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Mazatlan $94
    Cincinnati $223

The average daily cost (per person) in Mazatlan is $94, while the average daily cost in Cincinnati is $223. 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 Mazatlan and Cincinnati in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Mazatlan $29
    Cincinnati $102
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Mazatlan $58
    Cincinnati $204
Compare Hotels in Mazatlan and Cincinnati

Looking for a hotel in Mazatlan or Cincinnati? 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 Mazatlan


Hotels in Cincinnati


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: Mazatlan Hotel Prices and Cincinnati Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Mazatlan $19
    Cincinnati $25

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Mazatlan

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Mazatlan:

  • Mazatlan City to Mazatlan Cruise Port Departure Private Transfer: $108
  • Private Airport-Hotel Transfer: $119
  • Private Transfer from Mazatlan Airport (MZT): $28
  • Private Transfer to Mazatlan Airport (MZT): $28
  • Roundtrip Private Transfer from Mazatlan Airport (MZT): $56

Is it cheaper to fly into Mazatlan or Cincinnati?

Prices for flights to both Cincinnati and Mazatlan 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
    Mazatlan $54
    Cincinnati $95

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Mazatlan

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Mazatlan.

  • Mercado walking food tour: $78
  • Mazatlan routes of taste food tour: $89
  • Authentic Mexican Cooking Class in Mazatlan: $89
  • Tacos, Beer and Mezcal Food Tour in Mazatlan: $89

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Mazatlan $8.67
    Cincinnati $26

Tours and Activities in Mazatlan

Here are a few actual costs in Mazatlan for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Guided tour of the art galleries of the Historic Center: $15
  • Guided tour of the cathedral and its surroundings: $15
  • Mazatlan Observatorio 1873 Ticket and Pass : $25
  • Mazatlan Sightseeing and Golden Zone: $27
  • Mazatlan City Sightseeing Tour with Shopping Time and Lunch: $40
  • Mazatlán City Tour : $40
  • Mazatlan Sightseeing and Shopping Tour: $40
  • Mazatlan Smart Bike Tour: $40
  • Scenic Tour in Traditional Vehicle Pneumonia in Mazatlan: $45
  • City Tour with Beach Hotel Day Pass Included : $45
  • Fruit Garden and Mezcal Tasting Tour with Lunch Included: $55
  • Sensation Splash Party All Inclusive Mazatlan Bay Cruise: $57

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Mazatlan $16
    Cincinnati $11

Sample the Local Flavors in Mazatlan

Also in Mazatlan, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Mazatlan Day Tour: La Noria village and Los Osuna Distillery : $65


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Mazatlan and Cincinnati, we can see that Cincinnati 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 Cincinnati would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Cincinnati 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 Cincinnati Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Mazatlan or Cincinnati?

Mazatlan has a larger population, and is about 16% larger than the population of Cincinnati. When comparing the sizes of Mazatlan and Cincinnati, 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 Mazatlan or Cincinnati?

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 Mazatlan or Cincinnati in the Summer?

Both Cincinnati and Mazatlan are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Mazatlan because of the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Cincinnati this time of year.

Mazatlan is around the same temperature as Cincinnati in the summer. The daily temperature in Mazatlan averages around 29°C (83°F) in July, and Cincinnati fluctuates around 79°F (26°C).

It's quite sunny in Cincinnati. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Mazatlan. Mazatlan usually receives less sunshine than Cincinnati during summer. Mazatlan gets 216 hours of sunny skies, while Cincinnati receives 298 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Mazatlan. In July, Mazatlan usually receives more rain than Cincinnati. Mazatlan gets 199 mm (7.8 in) of rain, while Cincinnati receives 3.5 inches (90 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Mazatlan 29°C (83°F) 
    Cincinnati 79°F (26°C)

Should I visit Mazatlan or Cincinnati in the Autumn?

Both Cincinnati and Mazatlan during the autumn are popular places to visit. The shopping scene are the main draw to Mazatlan this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Cincinnati for the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Mazatlan is much warmer than Cincinnati. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Mazatlan in October average around 27°C (81°F), and Cincinnati averages at about 58°F (15°C).

It's quite sunny in Mazatlan. In the autumn, Mazatlan often gets more sunshine than Cincinnati. Mazatlan gets 233 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cincinnati receives 188 hours of full sun.

Mazatlan usually gets more rain in October than Cincinnati. Mazatlan gets 86 mm (3.4 in) of rain, while Cincinnati receives 2.2 inches (56 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Mazatlan 27°C (81°F) 
    Cincinnati 58°F (15°C)

Should I visit Mazatlan or Cincinnati in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Mazatlan and Cincinnati. Many travelers come to Mazatlan for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Cincinnati in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Cincinnati can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Mazatlan is generally much warmer than Cincinnati. Daily temperatures in Mazatlan average around 20°C (67°F), and Cincinnati fluctuates around 31°F (-0°C).

In Mazatlan, it's very sunny this time of the year. Mazatlan usually receives more sunshine than Cincinnati during winter. Mazatlan gets 203 hours of sunny skies, while Cincinnati receives 129 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Mazatlan usually receives less rain than Cincinnati. Mazatlan gets 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Cincinnati receives 2.2 inches (57 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Mazatlan 20°C (67°F) 
    Cincinnati 31°F (-0°C)

Should I visit Mazatlan or Cincinnati in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Mazatlan as well as Cincinnati. Many visitors come to Mazatlan in the spring for the beaches.

Mazatlan is much warmer than Cincinnati in the spring. The daily temperature in Mazatlan averages around 22°C (72°F) in April, and Cincinnati fluctuates around 56°F (14°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cincinnati. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Mazatlan this time of the year. In the spring, Mazatlan often gets more sunshine than Cincinnati. Mazatlan gets 250 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cincinnati receives 215 hours of full sun.

Mazatlan usually gets less rain in April than Cincinnati. Mazatlan gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Cincinnati receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Mazatlan 22°C (72°F) 
    Cincinnati 56°F (14°C)

Typical Weather for Cincinnati and Mazatlan

Mazatlan Cincinnati
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 20°C (67°F) 17 mm (0.7 in) 31°F (-0°C) 2.2 inches (57 mm)
Feb 20°C (67°F) 5 mm (0.2 in) 35°F (2°C) 2.5 inches (64 mm)
Mar 20°C (68°F) 3 mm (0.1 in) 46°F (8°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm)
Apr 22°C (72°F) 1 mm (0 in) 56°F (14°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
May 24°C (76°F) 1 mm (0 in) 66°F (19°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm)
Jun 27°C (81°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 74°F (24°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm)
Jul 29°C (83°F) 199 mm (7.8 in) 79°F (26°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm)
Aug 29°C (83°F) 219 mm (8.6 in) 77°F (25°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Sep 28°C (83°F) 227 mm (8.9 in) 71°F (21°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Oct 27°C (81°F) 86 mm (3.4 in) 58°F (15°C) 2.2 inches (56 mm)
Nov 24°C (75°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 48°F (9°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
Dec 21°C (70°F) 18 mm (0.7 in) 37°F (3°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm)