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

Should you visit Mazatlan or Greensboro?

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

Should I visit Mazatlan or Greensboro? 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.

Greensboro

Greensboro is a friendly, welcoming, and under-rated city. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Greensboro travel costs.

Mazatlan and Greensboro: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • 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
  • Very walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Mazatlan or Greensboro?

You'll generally find more things to do in Mazatlan than Greensboro. Mazatlan is bigger than Greensboro, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Mazatlan is more touristy than Greensboro and is known for its historic center, authenticity, and surfing areas. Also, Mazatlan is famous for the Malecon. Greensboro is well known for its interesting museums and diverse restaurants.

How is Mazatlan different from Greensboro?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Mazatlan
Greensboro

Mazatlan is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Greensboro is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Mazatlan. There are colonial buildings around the Centro Historico. You should also check out the Historic Cathedral and the Angela Peralta Theater.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Greensboro. The Greensboro Science Center is a highlight for families. Other interesting museums around town include the Elsewhere Modern Art Museum, the Greensboro History Museum, the International Civil Rights Center, and the Weatherspoon Art Museum.


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

Mazatlan
Greensboro

Mazatlan is well known for its restaurant scene. However, Greensboro is not particularly known 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.

Greensboro may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. You'll find a good selection of restaurants around town with Mexican, southern, Italian, and Chinese all being popular options.

Is Mazatlan or Greensboro Better for Nightlife?

Mazatlan
Greensboro

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

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 Greensboro has a few options to choose from. Head downtown for the most trendy bars, breweries, and nightclubs.

Is Mazatlan or Greensboro Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Mazatlan
Greensboro

Mazatlan is a good destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Greensboro 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.

Greensboro is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.


Is Mazatlan or Greensboro Better for Beaches?

Mazatlan
Greensboro

Mazatlan is well known for the beach. However, Greensboro 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.

Greensboro is not a beach destination.

Is Mazatlan or Greensboro Better for its Old Town?

Mazatlan
Greensboro

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

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Mazatlan. It's a historic port city with a charming colonial old town.

Greensboro does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Mazatlan or Greensboro?

Mazatlan
Greensboro

Shopping is a popular activity in both Greensboro 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.

Greensboro has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are shopping centers and shopping malls around town as well as some interesting local boutiques.


Is Mazatlan or Greensboro Better for Families?

Mazatlan
Greensboro

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Mazatlan or Greensboro.

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.

Greensboro offers lots of family activities. Kids will love visiting the Greensboro Science Center, which has hands-on science exhibits and a small zoo. Younger kids will also enjoy a visit to the Miriam P. Brenner Children’s Museum. During the summer months the Wet 'n Wild Emerald Pointe Water Park is a great way to spend a day. Other times of the year, there are indoor play spaces and movie theaters around town.

Is Mazatlan or Greensboro Better for Couples?

Mazatlan
Greensboro

Mazatlan is a good destination for its romantic activities. However, Greensboro 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.

Greensboro is not always the best place to visit for a couple. The Carolina Theater makes a great date night activity. There is also a diverse selection of restaurants around town and a few parks for a daytime outing.

Is Mazatlan or Greensboro Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Mazatlan
Greensboro

Mazatlan is well known for backpackers. However, Greensboro is not particularly known 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.

Greensboro is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a number of budget hotels nearby but no real hostels.


Is Mazatlan or Greensboro Better for Students?

Mazatlan
Greensboro

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

Greensboro is popular with students. University of North Carolina at Greensboro attracts students to the city. There are also several smaller colleges in the area.

Mazatlan is not popular with students.

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

Mazatlan
Greensboro

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

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

Public transit is mostly limited in Greensboro. There are several bus routes around town, but you really can depend on them to get where you're going. A car is important for making the most of your trip.

Is Mazatlan or Greensboro a more walkable city?

Mazatlan
Greensboro

Mazatlan is well known for its high level of walkability. However, Greensboro is not particularly known for its ease of walking around.

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

Greensboro is generally not a very walkable city. Most areas aren't walkable, but for the most pedestrian-friendly sections head to College Hill, downtown, or Brice Street.


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

Should I spend more time in Greensboro or Mazatlan?

How long in Mazatlan or Greensboro?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Mazatlan or Greensboro to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Mazatlan than Greensboro 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 Greensboro.

Families should spend more time in Mazatlan than Greensboro. 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 Greensboro. 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 Greensboro 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 Greensboro? Ideal Length of Stay
    Mazatlan 3-5 
    Greensboro 1-2

One day in Mazatlan or Greensboro?

With food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the authentic 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 Greensboro offers nightlife 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 Greensboro?

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.

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

Five days in Mazatlan or Greensboro?

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.

Greensboro 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 Greensboro?

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.

Greensboro 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 2-Week Tours from New York City, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage.


Which place is cheaper, Greensboro 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
    Greensboro Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Mazatlan $94
    Greensboro $197

The average daily cost (per person) in Mazatlan is $94, while the average daily cost in Greensboro is $197. 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 Greensboro in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Mazatlan $29
    Greensboro $96
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Mazatlan $58
    Greensboro $192
Compare Hotels in Mazatlan and Greensboro

Looking for a hotel in Mazatlan or Greensboro? 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 Greensboro


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 Greensboro Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Mazatlan $19
    Greensboro $24

Is it cheaper to fly into Mazatlan or Greensboro?

Prices for flights to both Greensboro 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
    Greensboro $82

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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Mazatlan $16
    Greensboro $20


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


Which is Bigger, Mazatlan or Greensboro?

Mazatlan has a larger population, and is about 53% larger than the population of Greensboro. When comparing the sizes of Mazatlan and Greensboro, 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 Greensboro?

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 Greensboro in the Summer?

Both Greensboro and Mazatlan are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Mazatlan for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Greensboro because of the family-friendly experiences.

Mazatlan is around the same temperature as Greensboro in the summer. The daily temperature in Mazatlan averages around 29°C (83°F) in July, and Greensboro fluctuates around 81°F (27°C).

It's quite sunny in Greensboro. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Mazatlan. Mazatlan usually receives less sunshine than Greensboro during summer. Mazatlan gets 216 hours of sunny skies, while Greensboro receives 273 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Greensboro. It's quite rainy in Mazatlan. In July, Mazatlan usually receives more rain than Greensboro. Mazatlan gets 199 mm (7.8 in) of rain, while Greensboro receives 4.4 inches (112 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Mazatlan 29°C (83°F) 
    Greensboro 81°F (27°C)

Should I visit Mazatlan or Greensboro in the Autumn?

Both Greensboro and Mazatlan during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Mazatlan because of the shopping scene. Also, the shopping scene are the main draw to Greensboro this time of year.

In the autumn, Mazatlan is much warmer than Greensboro. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Mazatlan in October average around 27°C (81°F), and Greensboro averages at about 62°F (17°C).

In Greensboro, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Mazatlan. In the autumn, Mazatlan often gets more sunshine than Greensboro. Mazatlan gets 233 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Greensboro receives 212 hours of full sun.

Mazatlan usually gets more rain in October than Greensboro. Mazatlan gets 86 mm (3.4 in) of rain, while Greensboro receives 3 inches (75 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Mazatlan 27°C (81°F) 
    Greensboro 62°F (17°C)

Should I visit Mazatlan or Greensboro in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Mazatlan and Greensboro. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Mazatlan this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Greensboro for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Greensboro. In January, Mazatlan is generally much warmer than Greensboro. Daily temperatures in Mazatlan average around 20°C (67°F), and Greensboro fluctuates around 40°F (4°C).

In Mazatlan, it's very sunny this time of the year. Mazatlan usually receives more sunshine than Greensboro during winter. Mazatlan gets 203 hours of sunny skies, while Greensboro receives 169 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Mazatlan usually receives less rain than Greensboro. Mazatlan gets 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Greensboro receives 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Mazatlan 20°C (67°F) 
    Greensboro 40°F (4°C)

Should I visit Mazatlan or Greensboro in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Mazatlan as well as Greensboro. Many travelers come to Mazatlan for the beaches.

Mazatlan is a little warmer than Greensboro in the spring. The daily temperature in Mazatlan averages around 22°C (72°F) in April, and Greensboro fluctuates around 61°F (16°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Greensboro. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Mazatlan this time of the year. In the spring, Mazatlan often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Greensboro. Mazatlan gets 250 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Greensboro receives 248 hours of full sun.

Mazatlan usually gets less rain in April than Greensboro. Mazatlan gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Greensboro receives 3.1 inches (80 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Mazatlan 22°C (72°F) 
    Greensboro 61°F (16°C)

Typical Weather for Greensboro and Mazatlan

Mazatlan Greensboro
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 20°C (67°F) 17 mm (0.7 in) 40°F (4°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm)
Feb 20°C (67°F) 5 mm (0.2 in) 43°F (6°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Mar 20°C (68°F) 3 mm (0.1 in) 52°F (11°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm)
Apr 22°C (72°F) 1 mm (0 in) 61°F (16°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm)
May 24°C (76°F) 1 mm (0 in) 69°F (21°C) 3 inches (77 mm)
Jun 27°C (81°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 77°F (25°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm)
Jul 29°C (83°F) 199 mm (7.8 in) 81°F (27°C) 4.4 inches (112 mm)
Aug 29°C (83°F) 219 mm (8.6 in) 80°F (26°C) 4.3 inches (109 mm)
Sep 28°C (83°F) 227 mm (8.9 in) 73°F (23°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm)
Oct 27°C (81°F) 86 mm (3.4 in) 62°F (17°C) 3 inches (75 mm)
Nov 24°C (75°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 53°F (12°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Dec 21°C (70°F) 18 mm (0.7 in) 44°F (7°C) 3.1 inches (80 mm)