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

Should you visit Mazatlan or Moncton?

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

Should I visit Mazatlan or Moncton? 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 authentic, historical, and cultural city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Mazatlan travel costs.

Moncton

Moncton is a compact, cultural, and quaint city. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food. See Moncton travel costs.

Mazatlan and Moncton: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Mazatlan or Moncton?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Mazatlan than Moncton, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Mazatlan is more touristy than Moncton and is popular for its historic center, authenticity, and surfing areas. It is also home to the Malecon. Moncton is popular for its unique sense of place and its cultural activities.

How is Mazatlan different from Moncton?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Mazatlan is great for its historical sights. Also, Moncton is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

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.

Moncton is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The city has a zoo at Magnetic Hill as well as several great museums and historic sites like Fort Beauséjour and the Acadian Museum.

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

Mazatlan is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Moncton is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Mazatlan has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. 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.

Moncton offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. You'll find a range of casual eateries around town as well as wine tasting and a few upscales places. Poutine is the local favorite, but you can also try fried seafood or a local stew.

Is Mazatlan or Moncton Better for Nightlife?

Mazatlan is a good destination for its evening party scene. However, Moncton is not a good destination for nightlife.

If you're looking for night time activities Mazatlan has a few options to choose from. 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.

Most people don't head to Moncton specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. Many of the local bars and clubs are geared toward a slightly younger crowd.

Is Mazatlan or Moncton Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Mazatlan is a good destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Moncton 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.

Moncton is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Mazatlan or Moncton Better for Beaches?

Mazatlan is great for the beach. However, Moncton 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.

Moncton is not a beach destination.

Is Mazatlan or Moncton Better for its Old Town?

Mazatlan is great for its historic old town charm. However, Moncton 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.

Moncton does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Mazatlan or Moncton?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Moncton 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.

Moncton has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There's a mix of independent shops and larger big box stores. Some of the largest shopping areas include Mapleton Plaza and Wheeler Park Power Centre.

Is Mazatlan or Moncton Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Mazatlan or Moncton.

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.

Moncton offers lots of family activities. It's a family-friendly town with indoor play spaces and outdoor parks. Highlights for families include a visit to Magnetic Hill Zoo and a stop at Butterfly World and the Boardwalk.

Is Mazatlan or Moncton Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Mazatlan and Moncton make for a good place to visit.

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.

Moncton is a good city for couples to visit. There are some great date night ideas like wine tasting at Magnetic Hill Winery or seeing a show at the theater.

Is Mazatlan or Moncton Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Mazatlan is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Moncton is not a good destination for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Mazatlan. 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.

Moncton is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While there is a hostel in town, this is little more than a stopover for most backpackers.

Is Mazatlan or Moncton 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, Moncton is not a good destination 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 Moncton. There is a bus system but it's better not to rely on it.

Is Mazatlan or Moncton a more walkable city?

Mazatlan is great for its ease of walking around. Also, Moncton is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its walkability.

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

Moncton is somewhat walkable. It's relatively compact and dense enough to get around on foot in many parts.

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

Should I spend more time in Moncton or Mazatlan?

How long in Mazatlan or Moncton?

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

Families should spend more time in Mazatlan than Moncton. 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 Moncton. 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 Moncton 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 Moncton?

In Mazatlan, you'll find shopping and museums. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

The city of Moncton 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 Moncton?

In Mazatlan, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

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

Five days in Mazatlan or Moncton?

Mazatlan is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Mazatlan has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Moncton 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 Moncton?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Mazatlan. Many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting Mazatlan. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Moncton 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 Camping Tours in Canada, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Canada.

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

Which is Bigger, Mazatlan or Moncton?

Mazatlan has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Moncton. When comparing the sizes of Mazatlan and Moncton, 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 Moncton?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Mazatlan or Moncton in the Summer?

Both Moncton and Mazatlan during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Mazatlan for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Moncton because of the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Mazatlan is a little warmer than Moncton. Typically, the summer temperatures in Mazatlan in July average around 29°C (83°F), and Moncton averages at about 19°C (66°F).

Moncton gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Mazatlan. Mazatlan usually gets more rain in July than Moncton. Mazatlan gets 199 mm (7.8 in) of rain, while Moncton receives 103 mm (4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Mazatlan or Moncton in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Mazatlan and Moncton. The autumn months attract visitors to Mazatlan because of the shopping scene. Also, the shopping scene are the main draw to Moncton this time of year.

In October, Mazatlan is generally much warmer than Moncton. Daily temperatures in Mazatlan average around 27°C (81°F), and Moncton fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

Moncton receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Mazatlan usually receives less rain than Moncton. Mazatlan gets 86 mm (3.4 in) of rain, while Moncton receives 106 mm (4.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Mazatlan or Moncton in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Mazatlan as well as Moncton. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Mazatlan this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Moncton for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Moncton. Mazatlan is much warmer than Moncton in the winter. The daily temperature in Mazatlan averages around 20°C (67°F) in January, and Moncton fluctuates around -8°C (17°F).

It's quite rainy in Moncton. Mazatlan usually gets less rain in January than Moncton. Mazatlan gets 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Moncton receives 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Mazatlan or Moncton in the Spring?

Both Moncton and Mazatlan are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Mazatlan for the beaches.

Moncton can get quite cold in the spring. In the spring, Mazatlan is much warmer than Moncton. Typically, the spring temperatures in Mazatlan in April average around 22°C (72°F), and Moncton averages at about 3°C (38°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Moncton. In April, Mazatlan usually receives less rain than Moncton. Mazatlan gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Moncton receives 101 mm (4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Moncton and Mazatlan