Should I Visit Puerto Vallarta or Mazatlan? Which is Better for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Scuba Diving & Snorkeling? Which is Cheaper? Which is More Expensive? | Budget Your Trip (2024)

Should you visit Puerto Vallarta or Mazatlan?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Puerto Vallarta and Mazatlan can help you decide which place is right for you.

Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta is a colorful, laid-back, and cultural town. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Mazatlan

Mazatlan is a authentic, historical, and cultural city. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping.

Puerto Vallarta and Mazatlan: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Puerto Vallarta or Mazatlan?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Mazatlan than Puerto Vallarta, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Mazatlan is more popular for its museums and historical sights, while Puerto Vallarta is known for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and shopping. Puerto Vallarta is more touristy than Mazatlan and is known for its natural beauty and vibrant nightlife. Mazatlan is popular for its historic center, authenticity, and surfing areas. It is also home to the Malecon.

How is Puerto Vallarta different from Mazatlan?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Puerto Vallarta or Mazatlan?

Mazatlan is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Puerto Vallarta is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

Many visitors head to Mazatlan specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. There are colonial buildings around the Centro Historico. You should also check out the Historic Cathedral and the Angela Peralta Theater.

Puerto Vallarta is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a number of historical sights around town like Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish.

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

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at great restaurants in both Puerto Vallarta and Mazatlan.

Dining out in Puerto Vallarta is an experience not to be missed. The charming character combined with the authentic local cuisine makes for a wonderful culinary experience. There's everything from taco stands to romantic restaurants that you can try.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in 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.

Is Puerto Vallarta or Mazatlan Better for Nightlife?

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

Puerto Vallarta is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. You'll find a mix of active clubs, cozy bars, and cosmopolitan cafes. Head to the Romantic Zone or Los Muertos Beach for some of the best places.

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 Puerto Vallarta or Mazatlan Better for Resorts?

Puerto Vallarta is a world-class destination for its resorts. However, Mazatlan is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Puerto Vallarta is a great choice. There are many different places to stay from all-inclusive resorts to high end hotels or beachfront properties.

Mazatlan is not a resort destination.

Is Puerto Vallarta or Mazatlan Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Puerto Vallarta is well known for its diving and snorkeling. Also, Mazatlan is still popular, but not quite as popular for snorkeling and scuba diving.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting Puerto Vallarta. Divers in the area may get to experience once in a lifetime opportunities like diving with manta rays, dolphins, whale sharks, hammerheads, or schools of jacks.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving 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.

Is Puerto Vallarta or Mazatlan Better for Beaches?

Puerto Vallarta and Mazatlan are great choices for a beach vacation.

Puerto Vallarta is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. There are many beaches spread out around town that have soft sand and blue water. Most have all of the amenities you could need. Popular beaches include Playa de los Muertos, Playa Mismaloya, and Playa Conchas Chinas.

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.

Is Puerto Vallarta or Mazatlan Better for its Old Town?

Mazatlan is a well-known place for its historic old town charm. However, Puerto Vallarta does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Mazatlan. It's a historic port city with a charming colonial old town.

Puerto Vallarta does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Puerto Vallarta or Mazatlan?

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

Puerto Vallarta is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. There's a mix of shopping malls, open-air markets, boutiques, and international brands.

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 Puerto Vallarta or Mazatlan Better for Families?

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

Puerto Vallarta is a very kid-friendly town. Kids will love the water parks and thrilling activities, such as Aquaventuras Water Park or Los Veranos Canopy Tour. There's rock climbing and ropes courses at Las Animas Aventura Park. You'll also find horseback riding and even pirate boat tours in the area.

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 Puerto Vallarta or Mazatlan Better for Couples?

Puerto Vallarta is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Mazatlan is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Couples visit Puerto Vallarta frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples looking for a romantic getaway will enjoy sunset boat trips, horseback riding, and adventure sports. There are also many restaurants where you can enjoy a romantic dinner or a refreshing drink.

Mazatlan is a good town 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 Puerto Vallarta or Mazatlan Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Puerto Vallarta and Mazatlan are great destinations for backpackers.

Puerto Vallarta is a very popular town for backpackers and budget travelers. There are hostels around, as well as many adventure sports or thrilling activities that backpackers will enjoy.

Mazatlan is very popular with the backpacker crowd. 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.

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

Both Puerto Vallarta and Mazatlan offer good public transit options.

Puerto Vallarta has a few public transit options. There are blue, green or orange buses that travel around town.

Mazatlan has some public transit options. There are city buses around town.

Is Puerto Vallarta or Mazatlan a more walkable city?

Puerto Vallarta and Mazatlan both are great when exploring on foot.

Puerto Vallarta is a very walkable destination. There are several walkable neighborhoods in town such as 5 de Diciembre, el Centro, and Zona Romantica.

Mazatlan is very walkable. The city is relatively walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Mazatlan or Puerto Vallarta?

How long in Puerto Vallarta or Mazatlan?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Puerto Vallarta than Mazatlan 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 Puerto Vallarta.

One day in Puerto Vallarta or Mazatlan?

The town of Puerto Vallarta offers museums and nightlife. Most people come for the beaches. 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.

The historical destination of Mazatlan offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Puerto Vallarta or Mazatlan?

Puerto Vallarta 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.

The city of Mazatlan offers scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Puerto Vallarta or Mazatlan?

Puerto Vallarta is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Puerto Vallarta, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Mazatlan is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. This city offers something for everyone. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

A week in Puerto Vallarta or Mazatlan?

Puerto Vallarta is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, 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.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Mazatlan. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

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

Which is Bigger, Puerto Vallarta or Mazatlan?

Mazatlan has a larger population, and is about 90% larger than the population of Puerto Vallarta. When comparing the sizes of Puerto Vallarta and Mazatlan, 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.