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

Should you visit Mazatlan or Sedona?

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

Should I visit Mazatlan or Sedona? 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. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Mazatlan travel costs.

Sedona

Sedona is a scenic, striking, and desert town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. The famous beauty of Sedona is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and museums. See Sedona travel costs.

Mazatlan and Sedona: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Mazatlan or Sedona?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Mazatlan than Sedona, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Mazatlan is better known for its museums and attractions, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and historical sights, while Sedona is more popular for its resorts, hiking, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Sedona is more touristy than Mazatlan and is popular for its stargazing, desert setting, and yoga retreats. Mazatlan is well known for its historic center, authenticity, and surfing areas. Also, Mazatlan is famous for the Malecon.

How is Mazatlan different from Sedona?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Sedona. The Sedona Heritage Museum offers a glimpse into the history and culture of the area. There are also many galleries around town.

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

Foodies will find both Mazatlan and Sedona both to be high quality 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.

Sedona has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. It's grown into a foodie destination with local restaurants that pride themselves on using local ingredients. Mexican food is common but you'll also find cafes, classic American food, and other international options.

Is Mazatlan or Sedona Better for Nightlife?

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

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 Sedona has a few options to choose from. There are bars, live music venues, and even a casino in town. Breweries are popular and there are also upscale wine bars.

Is Mazatlan or Sedona Better for Resorts?

Sedona is well known for its resorts. However, Mazatlan is not a resort destination.

Sedona is known as a popular and fun resort destination. Upscale resorts with spas, pools, and other amenities offer the perfect backdrop for a desert vacation.

Mazatlan is not a resort destination.

Is Mazatlan or Sedona Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Mazatlan is a popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Sedona 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.

Sedona is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Mazatlan or Sedona Better for Beaches?

Mazatlan is great for the beach. However, Sedona 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.

Sedona is not a beach destination.

Is Mazatlan or Sedona Better for its Old Town?

Mazatlan is great for its old town. Also, Sedona is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its historic old town charm.

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

Sedona offers a nice historic old town area. Traditional architecture and historic charm give downtown Sedona a lot of character.

Is Mazatlan or Sedona Better for Hiking?

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

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Sedona. It's red rock cliffs offer the perfect setting for dramatic hikes and breathtaking views. The colors are most impressive at sunrise and sunset and some of the most famous landmarks include Airport Mesa, Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock and Boynton Canyon.

Mazatlan is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Mazatlan or Sedona?

Sedona is a world-class destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Mazatlan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Sedona make it a world-class shopping destination. It's filled with local artisan shops and art galleries that highlight the region's beauty. Head to Uptown Sedona for some of the best boutiques. You should also check out the Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village, the Sedona Art Center, and Hozho Distinctive Shops and Galleries.

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 Sedona More Beautiful?

Sedona is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Mazatlan is not a destination known for its beauty.

The famous beauty of Sedona is one of the main draws. The surrounded countryside is filled with dramatic desert landscapes and striking red cliffs.

Mazatlan is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Mazatlan or Sedona Better for Families?

Sedona is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Mazatlan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Sedona is a very kid-friendly town. There are impressive parks and fun outdoor activities for the whole family. Head to Slide Rock State Park where your kids can enjoy a natural waterslide. There's also the Out of Africa Wildlife Zoo as well as a canyon railroad.

Mazatlan offers lots of family activities. 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.

Is Mazatlan or Sedona Better for Couples?

Sedona is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Mazatlan is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Sedona makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Stargazing in the evening or picnicking in a park during the day. There are countless romantic activities that couples can enjoy. The area is filled with striking natural beauty that is at its best during sunset. Couples will also enjoy fine dining and a variety of outdoor activities.

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 Sedona Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Mazatlan is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Sedona is not as popular, but is still a nice town for backpackers.

Many 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.

Sedona is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. You'll find campgrounds, RV parks, and motels in the area, but no real hostels.

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

Mazatlan is a popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Sedona 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 Sedona. Verde Shuttle offers shuttle routes through town.

Is Mazatlan or Sedona a more walkable city?

Mazatlan is great for its high level of walkability. Also, Sedona is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its ease of walking around.

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

Sedona is a somewhat walkable city. If you stay in Uptown Sedona, then the area is walkable, but if you're planning to stay further away then you'll need to have a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Sedona or Mazatlan?

How long in Mazatlan or Sedona?

In either Mazatlan or Sedona, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Mazatlan has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Mazatlan than Sedona. However, 3-5 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Mazatlan. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Sedona is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and shopping. 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 Sedona?

Mazatlan is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Sedona is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Mazatlan or Sedona?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Mazatlan. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Sedona is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that shopping is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Sedona, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Mazatlan or Sedona?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historical destination of Mazatlan. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Sedona is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that shopping is why people visit. 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 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 Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Historical Tours in United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Mazatlan or Sedona?

Mazatlan has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Sedona. When comparing the sizes of Mazatlan and Sedona, 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.