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

Should you visit Mazatlan or Vail?

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

Should I visit Mazatlan or Vail? 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.

Vail

Vail is a upscale, resort-filled, and charming ski town. It also offers plenty of small town charm and also has plenty of sights and activities. The beauty of Vail is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and skiing. See Vail travel costs.

Mazatlan and Vail: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Mazatlan or Vail?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Vail than Mazatlan, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Vail is better known for its skiing, nightlife, music, resorts, hiking, shopping, christmas markets, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Mazatlan is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and historical sights. Vail is more touristy than Mazatlan and is popular for its world-class skiing, charming mountain town atmosphere, and adventurous outdoor activities. Also, Vail is famous for The Vail Ski Resort. Mazatlan is well known for its historic center, authenticity, and surfing areas.

How is Mazatlan different from Vail?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Vail and Mazatlan. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Mazatlan or Vail Better for Skiing?

Vail is a world-class destination for winter skiing. However, Mazatlan is not a skiing destination.

If you're an avid snow skiier, Vail should be on your list. This ski town has produced its share of Olympians. Vail is the third largest ski resort in the US and it has 31 lifts and 195 runs. There are five different bowls that offer beautiful views.

Mazatlan is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Mazatlan or Vail?

Mazatlan is a great city for its historical sights. However, Vail does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Vail does not have museums and landmarks.

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

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

Mazatlan has a huge number of terrific 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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Vail area. The town has a diverse sampling of restaurants that include different ethnic options as well as taverns with comfort food. It's easy to find mountain-friendly restaurants where you can refuel during your ski vacation.

Is Mazatlan or Vail Better for Nightlife?

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

Vail is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. Happy Hours start early, and then the partying can go late into the night. There are bars, lounges, breweries and live music that keep the atmosphere light and offer entertainment after your long day on the slopes. Do keep in mind that many places close or dramatically reduce their hours during the off-peak fall and spring months.

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 Vail Better for Music?

Vail is a popular place for its live music scene. However, Mazatlan is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Vail is active and vibrant. You can often find live music at Shakedown Bar, Bridge Street Bar, and the Red Lion.

Mazatlan is not a live music destination.

Is Mazatlan or Vail Better for Resorts?

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

Vail is known as a popular and fun resort destination. Designed as a resort town, Vail offers great accommodation. Nice resorts include Four Seasons Resort and Residences, the Ritz Carlton Club, and the Grand Hyatt.

Mazatlan is not a resort destination.

Is Mazatlan or Vail Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

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

Vail is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Mazatlan or Vail Better for Beaches?

Mazatlan is a great city for the beach. However, Vail 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.

Vail is not a beach destination.

Is Mazatlan or Vail Better for its Old Town?

Mazatlan is a great city for its old town. However, Vail 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.

Vail does not have a historic old town.

Is Mazatlan or Vail Better for Hiking?

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

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Vail. During the warmer months, this resort town is surrounded by world-class hiking trails. You can enjoy the wildflowers, search for wildlife, or take in the sweeping mountain views. Popular hikes near Vail include Booth Falls, Davos Trail, and Shrine Ridge.

Mazatlan is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Mazatlan or Vail?

Vail is well known for its shopping opportunities. Also, Mazatlan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

Vail is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The cobblestone streets are lined with boutiques and ski shops that sell everything from evening dresses to outdoor gear. It's easy to pop into the many shops around downtown Vail and find anything you might need.

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 Vail More Beautiful?

Vail is well known for its scenery and beauty. However, Mazatlan is not a destination known for its beauty.

The beauty of Vail is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. It is a beautiful town that has stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Mazatlan is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Mazatlan or Vail Better for Families?

Vail is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Mazatlan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Vail is a very family-friendly destination. With its world class skiing, rock climbing, ice skating, and ice cream, kids love this ski resort. The resort town has two terrain parks - Golden Peak and Avanti. Avanti is perfect for kids. It has small jumps, wide rails, and kid-friendly amenities. Golden Peak is designed for more advanced athletes. Vail also has nice beginner slopes that are great for kids.

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 Vail Better for Couples?

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

Vail makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Couples who enjoy skiing and outdoor adventure will appreciate everything that this ski town has to offer. There are nice restaurants, beautiful gardens, and plenty of romantic activities to choose from.

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 Vail Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Mazatlan is a great city for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Vail is not as popular, but is still a nice ski 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.

Vail is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. This ski town isn't completely closed off to budget travelers as there are a couple of hostels around town.

Is Mazatlan or Vail 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 Vail.

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 Vail offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a free bus service through the area.

Is Mazatlan or Vail a more walkable city?

Vail is a world-class destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Mazatlan is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Getting around Vail on foot is easy. The main downtown is pedestrian-only and perfect for popping in shops and restaurants.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Vail or Mazatlan?

How long in Mazatlan or Vail?

Both Mazatlan and Vail have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Vail than in Mazatlan. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Mazatlan, and 3-7 days is enough time in Vail.

Families should spend more time in Vail than Mazatlan. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Vail, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

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

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

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Mazatlan. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Vail is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and skiing. 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 Vail?

Mazatlan is a fun place to experience. It's also a great beach destination, too. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Vail 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 Vail?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the cultural destination of Mazatlan. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

Vail is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that skiing is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Vail, 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 Vail?

The historical city of Mazatlan offers shopping and museums. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week 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.

Vail is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that skiing is why people visit. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Vail has to offer. This ski 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 Camping Tours in United States of America, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America.

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

Which is Bigger, Mazatlan or Vail?

Mazatlan has a larger population, and is about 80 times larger than the population of Vail. When comparing the sizes of Mazatlan and Vail, 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.