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

Should you visit Mazatlan or Seattle?

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

Should I visit Mazatlan or Seattle? 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. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping. See Mazatlan travel costs.

Seattle

Seattle is a cultural, outdoorsy, and laid-back city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. Seattle is a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the food, beaches, and hiking. See Seattle travel costs.

Mazatlan and Seattle: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Mazatlan or Seattle?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Seattle than Mazatlan, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Seattle is more popular for its theatre productions, nightlife, music, hiking, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Mazatlan is known for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and historical sights. Seattle is more touristy than Mazatlan and is known for its beautiful waterfront setting, diverse culinary scene, thriving art and cultural venues, and being the home of many international tech companies. It is also home to The Space Needle. Mazatlan is popular for its historic center, authenticity, and surfing areas.

How is Mazatlan different from Seattle?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Plenty of people visit the very good sights and museums in both Mazatlan and Seattle.

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 Seattle specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city's most iconic landmark is the Space Needle. There's also a zoo, aquarium, and a handful of nice museums. Several favorites include the Chihuly Garden and Glass, the Museum of History & Industry, and the Seattle Art Museum.

Is Mazatlan or Seattle Better for Theater?

Seattle is a popular place for its theatre productions. However, Mazatlan is not a theatre destination.

With some theater and performance venues, you might want to see a show in Seattle. There are a handful of theaters where you can enjoy traveling Broadway shows or smaller productions.

Mazatlan is not a theatre destination.

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

Foodies will find both Mazatlan and Seattle both to be very good 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.

Seattle has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The city has many diverse dining options that make it a popular foodie destination. The seafood is world-class with many restaurants offering fresh caught salmon and oysters. There are also many great Asian restaurants with Pho, sushi, and dim sum all being popular around town. Seattle is also famous as the birthplace of Starbucks coffee, and both chain and independent coffee shops are common. Finally, make sure you check out the donuts at Pike's Place Market.

Is Mazatlan or Seattle Better for Nightlife?

Seattle is well known for nightlife and partying. Also, Mazatlan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Seattle is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city is known for its breweries and eclectic nightlife scene. There is a thriving theater scene as well as many bars and trendy restaurants. The best neighborhoods for nightlife include Capitol Hill, Belltown, and Downtown.

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.

Is Mazatlan or Seattle Better for Music?

Seattle is well known for its live music scene. However, Mazatlan is not a live music destination.

Music is a popular form of entertainment in Seattle. The city has developed its own music culture around several genres including alternative rock and grunge.

Mazatlan is not a live music destination.

Is Mazatlan or Seattle Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Mazatlan is a nice place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Seattle is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Mazatlan has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. Most of the diving takes place around the Pajaros, Venados and Lobos islands. This is where you'll see the most tropical fish.

Seattle is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Mazatlan or Seattle Better for Beaches?

Mazatlan is notable for the beach. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its beaches.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Mazatlan. 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Seattle. The city is surrounded by water so there are a number of rocky and sandy beaches nearby. Some beaches are more popular with locals while others attract a large amount of tourists. Alki Beach Park, Discovery Park, and Golden Gardens Park are among the best.

Is Mazatlan or Seattle Better for its Old Town?

Mazatlan is notable for its historic old town charm. However, Seattle does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Mazatlan to see the historical old town. It's a historic port city with a charming colonial old town.

Seattle does not have a historic old town.

Is Mazatlan or Seattle Better for Hiking?

Seattle is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Mazatlan is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Seattle. It's famously an outdoorsy city and the hiking will not disappoint. Within a half hour drive of town you'll find beautiful forests and stunning natural beauty. Head into the Cascades, to the coastal rainforests, or around Mount Rainier for all kinds of diverse landscapes. Seattle is well situated for you to experience hiking through the diverse Pacific Northwest landscapes.

Mazatlan is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Mazatlan or Seattle?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Seattle 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.

Seattle has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Shopping in town has an eclectic mix of high end brands, local vendors, and vintage shops. There are farmers markets as well as the famous Pike Place Market, but also major malls with all of the standard department stores.

Is Mazatlan or Seattle More Beautiful?

Seattle is a popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Mazatlan is not a destination known for its beauty.

Seattle is a beautiful place to visit, too. Set against the backdrop of Mt. Rainier, the city has both natural and architectural beauty. It's also beautifully situated on the water with lots of parks and vegetation throughout.

Mazatlan is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Mazatlan or Seattle Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Mazatlan or Seattle.

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.

Seattle offers lots of family activities. This is an outdoor city with plenty of places where kids can run around and experience nature. There are several good museums as well as outdoor activities, parks, and a zoo. Make sure you check out the Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture, Volunteer Park, and Artists at Play Playground.

Is Mazatlan or Seattle Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Mazatlan and Seattle 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.

Seattle is a good city for couples to visit. The city has a laid back vibe, a nice downtown area, and plenty of outdoor activities. There are a diversity of restaurants to enjoy and a great nightlife scene that makes for a good couple's getaway.

Is Mazatlan or Seattle Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Mazatlan is notable for backpackers. Also, Seattle is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Mazatlan is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Seattle is a good city to visit for backpackers. Although it's not the most popular city for backpackers in America, the city's chill vibe, fun breweries, and lively setting make it a great spot for young backpackers.

Is Mazatlan or Seattle Better for Students?

Seattle is well known for students. However, Mazatlan is not popular with students.

Seattle is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. It is a major IT center with a large university, so international students will have plenty of opportunities here. It's also a vibrant city with many outdoor recreational opportunities and a fun nightlife scene.

Mazatlan is not popular with students.

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

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

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 Seattle offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a light rail system, a monorail, a street car, and buses.

Is Mazatlan or Seattle a more walkable city?

Mazatlan and Seattle both are very good when exploring on foot.

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

Seattle is a very walkable destination. Many neighborhoods are very walkable, particularly in the downtown and major tourist areas.

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

Should I spend more time in Seattle or Mazatlan?

How long in Mazatlan or Seattle?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Mazatlan and Seattle. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Mazatlan than in Seattle. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Mazatlan, and 2-3 days is enough time in Seattle.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Mazatlan than Seattle 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 Seattle?

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.

Seattle is a big city with plenty to do. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Seattle?

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.

Seattle 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. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Seattle, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Mazatlan or Seattle?

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.

Seattle 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 Seattle?

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.

Seattle is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, and The Best Walking Tours in United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Mazatlan or Seattle?

Seattle has a larger population, and is about 61% larger than the population of Mazatlan. When comparing the sizes of Mazatlan and Seattle, 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 Seattle?

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 Seattle in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Mazatlan and Seattle. Many travelers come to Mazatlan for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Seattle in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Mazatlan is a little warmer than Seattle. Typically, the summer temperatures in Mazatlan in July average around 29°C (83°F), and Seattle averages at about 67°F (19°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Seattle this time of the year. In Mazatlan, it's very sunny this time of the year. Mazatlan usually receives less sunshine than Seattle during summer. Mazatlan gets 216 hours of sunny skies, while Seattle receives 313 hours of full sun in the summer.

Mazatlan gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Mazatlan usually receives more rain than Seattle. Mazatlan gets 199 mm (7.8 in) of rain, while Seattle receives 0.9 inches (22 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Mazatlan or Seattle in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Mazatlan as well as Seattle. Many visitors come to Mazatlan in the autumn for the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Seattle for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Mazatlan is generally much warmer than Seattle. Daily temperatures in Mazatlan average around 27°C (81°F), and Seattle fluctuates around 54°F (12°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Mazatlan this time of the year. In the autumn, Mazatlan often gets more sunshine than Seattle. Mazatlan gets 233 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Seattle receives 143 hours of full sun.

Mazatlan usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Seattle. Mazatlan gets 86 mm (3.4 in) of rain, while Seattle receives 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Mazatlan or Seattle in the Winter?

Both Seattle and Mazatlan are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Mazatlan for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Seattle because of the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

Mazatlan is much warmer than Seattle in the winter. The daily temperature in Mazatlan averages around 20°C (67°F) in January, and Seattle fluctuates around 42°F (5°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Mazatlan. Mazatlan usually receives more sunshine than Seattle during winter. Mazatlan gets 203 hours of sunny skies, while Seattle receives 67 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Seattle. In January, Mazatlan usually receives less rain than Seattle. Mazatlan gets 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Seattle receives 5.4 inches (136 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Mazatlan or Seattle in the Spring?

Both Seattle and Mazatlan during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Mazatlan because of the beaches. Furthermore, the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Seattle this time of year.

In the spring, Mazatlan is much warmer than Seattle. Typically, the spring temperatures in Mazatlan in April average around 22°C (72°F), and Seattle averages at about 51°F (11°C).

In Seattle, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Mazatlan. In the spring, Mazatlan often gets more sunshine than Seattle. Mazatlan gets 250 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Seattle receives 212 hours of full sun.

Mazatlan usually gets less rain in April than Seattle. Mazatlan gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Seattle receives 2.5 inches (64 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Seattle and Mazatlan