A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Arachova vs. Cordoba for Attractions, Old Town, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Arachova or Cordoba?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Arachova or Cordoba, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Arachova

Arachova is a bustling, beautiful, and outdoorsy town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. Other popular activities here include food, hiking, and shopping.

Cordoba

Cordoba is a colorful, flower-filled, and historical town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Arachova and Cordoba: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to La Mezquita


Is there more to do in Arachova or Cordoba?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Cordoba than Arachova, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Cordoba is better known for its museums, historical sights, and impressive beauty, while Arachova is more popular for its skiing, hiking, and small town charm. Cordoba is more touristy than Arachova and is known for its mix of Roman, Islamic, and Spanish architecture, its whitewashed buildings and streets filled with flowers, and its handcrafted leatherwork. Also, Cordoba is famous for La Mezquita. Arachova is well known for its surrounding mountain beauty, festive Christmas atmosphere, and nearby winter skiing.

How is Arachova different from Cordoba?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Arachova or Cordoba Better for Skiing?

Arachova
Cordoba

Arachova is a town with good options for snow skiing. However, Cordoba is not a skiing destination.

Head to Arachova for some great skiing and other winter activities. The Parnassos Ski Resort is located just 24 kilometers from town and offers skiing that is beautiful and fun. There are spectacular views and the area has gained popularity in recent years. There are lessons for kids and many other fun winter activities nearby.

Cordoba is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Arachova or Cordoba?

Arachova
Cordoba

Cordoba is an unbeatable place for its museums and landmarks. Also, Arachova is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Cordoba that are not to be missed. The city is filled with monuments that reflect its past. The Great Mosque (La Mezquita) is one of the most iconic sights. You can also visit Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos, Palacio de Viana, and Puente Romano.

Arachova offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are some interesting sights in the surrounding area, as well as the unique Ai Giorgis Church near town.

Is the Food Better in Arachova or Cordoba? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Arachova
Cordoba

Dining out at restaurants in both Arachova and Cordoba can be an enjoyable experience.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Arachova makes for a great culinary experience. The town is filled with old tavernas that serve up traditional local cuisine. You'll find a lot of the local cheese, formaela, as well as a local noodle dish called hilopites. Pork ribs and delicate desserts are also popular.

Cordoba has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Like much of Spain, international travelers will have to adjust to the shifted meal schedule which means most meals are served are later than they are in other parts of Europe. The ingredients are fresh and popular dishes include Salmorejo (a tomato based soup), Rabo De Toro (stewed oxtail), and Flamenquín (deep-fried pork roll).

Is Arachova or Cordoba Better for Nightlife?

Arachova
Cordoba

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Arachova and Cordoba.

Arachova is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. There are many charming bars around town that stay open late into the night. During the popular winter months, you'll find the streets filled with people that come for the unique winter atmosphere.

Many people head to Cordoba for the nightlife scene. There are cocktail bars, Flamenco shows, tapas tours, and local pubs that make for a great night out. The city offers something for everyone, whatever your style.


Is Arachova or Cordoba Better for its Old Town?

Arachova
Cordoba

Cordoba is an unbeatable place for its historic old town. Also, Arachova is still popular, but not quite as popular for its old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Cordoba offers plenty to see. It's old town is one of the most enchanting in Andalusia. There are whitewashed houses that line flower-filled streets and its compact enough to take a leisurely stroll.

Arachova is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The charming old town is at its best during the Christmas season when there are decorations around the town square and the streets are filled with people.

Is Arachova or Cordoba Better for Hiking?

Arachova
Cordoba

Arachova is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Cordoba is not a hiking destination.

Arachova is a popular spot for hiking. For the best outdoor activities, head to nearby Mount Parnassos, where there's skiing and snowboarding during the winter months and beautiful hikes through the mountainous terrain during the summer months.

Cordoba is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Arachova or Cordoba?

Arachova
Cordoba

Shopping is a popular activity in both Cordoba and Arachova.

Arachova is a great destination for shopping. The charming town has many unique shops that sell carpets, woven goods, and local food items.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Cordoba. You'll find souvenir shops selling local pottery, traditional jewelry, and handcrafted leatherwork, so this is a nice place to pick up something to remember your trip.


Is Arachova or Cordoba Better for Families?

Arachova
Cordoba

Arachova is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Cordoba is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Arachova is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The charming town has long served as a winter escape for those living in Athens. There's plenty for kids to do including and ice skating rink, a horse ranch, and even nearby skiing.

Cordoba is a family-friendly town. Horse-drawn carriage rides and then a visit to the Royal Stables of Cordoba is a great option for horse-lovers. The city also has a zoo and an impressive park - Ciudad de Los Niños. If you're willing to head out of town, about 10 kilometers away you'll find Aquasierra Waterpark.

Is Arachova or Cordoba Better for Couples?

Arachova
Cordoba

Arachova and Cordoba are both high quality to visit as a couple.

Couples visit Arachova frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It's a romantic setting with nice accommodation, delicious local taverns, and plenty of unique activities that couples can enjoy.

Cordoba is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. Beautifully lit up at night, this is a truly romantic city. There are horse-drawn carriage rides, nice parks, and an impressive botanical garden. There are also many great restaurants that couples can explore.

Is Arachova or Cordoba Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Arachova
Cordoba

Cordoba is well known for backpackers. However, Arachova is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Cordoba. It's well-established on the backpacker circuit, so you'll find plenty of hostels around town and many opportunities to meet up with other travelers.

Arachova is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Most backpackers don't think to visit this area on their trip to Greece. There are some guesthouses, but not a lot of hostels, so you might find a limited number of social activities.


Is Arachova or Cordoba Better for Students?

Arachova
Cordoba

Cordoba is an unbeatable place for students. However, Arachova is not popular with students.

Cordoba is a great destination for students. It's a top study abroad destination for international students. The university is excellent and the city is easy to navigate. It's a cultural city with a great student-friendly atmosphere.

Arachova is not popular with students.

Is Arachova or Cordoba Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Arachova
Cordoba

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Arachova and Cordoba.

You'll find some public transit in Arachova, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are some public buses in the area.

While Cordoba offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are 15 bus lines that are operated by Aucorsa.

Is Arachova or Cordoba a more walkable city?

Arachova
Cordoba

Cordoba is well known for its walkability. Also, Arachova is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Cordoba is very walkable. It's small and compact enough to explore on foot.

Arachova is a somewhat walkable place. The town has many walkable streets that are fun to explore on foot.


For even more information, also check out Is Arachova Worth Visiting? and Is Cordoba Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cordoba or Arachova?

How long in Arachova or Cordoba?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Arachova and Cordoba. In our opinion, Cordoba has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Cordoba than Arachova. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Arachova, and 1-3 days is enough time in Cordoba.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Cordoba than Arachova 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 Cordoba.


  • How many days in Arachova or Cordoba? Ideal Length of Stay
    Arachova 2-3 
    Cordoba 1-3

One day in Arachova or Cordoba?

In Arachova, you'll find shopping and museums. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

The beautiful town of Cordoba offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 Arachova or Cordoba?

In Arachova, you'll find museums and skiing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Arachova has to offer.

Cordoba is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cordoba, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Arachova or Cordoba?

Arachova is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Cordoba is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. 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 Arachova or Cordoba?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Arachova. Many people enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting Arachova. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Cordoba is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Greece, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Greece, The Best 10-Day Tours from Madrid, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Barcelona.


Which place is cheaper, Cordoba or Arachova?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Arachova is €112, while the average daily cost in Cordoba is €127. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Arachova and Cordoba in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Arachova 50
    Cordoba 68
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Arachova 100
    Cordoba 136
Compare Hotels in Arachova and Cordoba

Looking for a hotel in Arachova or Cordoba? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Arachova


Hotels in Cordoba


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Cordoba Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Arachova 51
    Cordoba 28

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cordoba

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Cordoba:

  • Cordoba to Granada Private Transfer: $241
  • Private Transfer IN or OUT in Upscale Vehicle with Professional Driver: $132
  • Guided tour of Medina Azahara with transfer from Córdoba: $27
  • Medina Azahara Cordoba, with Transfer by Bus: $34
  • Private Transfer from Córdoba to Malaga (AGP) Airport: $295
  • Private transfer in Cordoba from Airport or Train Station: $72

Is it cheaper to fly into Arachova or Cordoba?

Prices for flights to both Cordoba and Arachova change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Arachova 29
    Cordoba 34

Typical Food Prices in Cordoba

Some typical examples of dining costs in Cordoba are as follows:


  • Ice Cream
    1.80

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Cordoba

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Cordoba.

  • Paella and Salmorejo 2-Hour Cooking Class in Córdoba: $49

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Arachova 28
    Cordoba 25

Typical Entertainment Prices in Cordoba

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Cordoba are as follows:


  • Garden Entrance Fee
    6.00

Tours and Activities in Cordoba

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Cordoba are as follows:

  • Córdoba Scavenger Hunt and City Highlights Walking Tour: $8.95
  • Mosque-Cathedral of Cordoba Guided Tour : $15
  • Medina azahara night experience without transportation: $15
  • Cordoba's Authentic Patios: 2-Hour Tour with Tickets: $15
  • Patios tour in Cordoba: $16
  • Cordoba Jewish Quartier Guided Tour: $16
  • Visit in Spanish to the Cathedral Mosque. Does not include entrance ticket: $19
  • Guided Tour to the Popular Patios of Cordoba: $20
  • Alcazar of Cordoba Small Group Tour with Skip the Line Ticket: $20
  • Cordoba Old Town Evening Walking Tour: $20
  • Authentic Patios of Cordoba Guided Tour: $20
  • Alcazar Skip the Line Guided Tour: $20

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Arachova 6.43
    Cordoba 37

Sample the Local Flavors in Cordoba

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Cordoba:

  • Evening Wine Tasting Córdoba: $26
  • Evening Local Wine Tasting in Córdoba: $39


When comparing the travel costs between Arachova and Cordoba, we can see that Cordoba is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Arachova Expensive? and Is Cordoba Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Arachova or Cordoba?

Cordoba has a larger population, and is about 80 times larger than the population of Arachova. When comparing the sizes of Arachova and Cordoba, 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 Arachova or Cordoba?

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 Arachova or Cordoba in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Arachova and Cordoba. The hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Arachova this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Cordoba for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Arachova is generally around the same temperature as Cordoba. Daily temperatures in Arachova average around 27°C (81°F), and Cordoba fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cordoba this time of the year. In Arachova, it's very sunny this time of the year. Arachova usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Cordoba during summer. Arachova gets 357 hours of sunny skies, while Cordoba receives 358 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Arachova usually receives more rain than Cordoba. Arachova gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Cordoba receives 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Arachova 27°C (81°F) 
    Cordoba 27°C (81°F)

Should I visit Arachova or Cordoba in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Arachova as well as Cordoba. Many travelers come to Arachova for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the small town atmosphere. Additionally, many visitors come to Cordoba in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Arachova is around the same temperature as Cordoba in the autumn. The daily temperature in Arachova averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Cordoba fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cordoba. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Arachova this time of the year. In the autumn, Arachova often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Cordoba. Arachova gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cordoba receives 202 hours of full sun.

Arachova usually gets less rain in October than Cordoba. Arachova gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Cordoba receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Arachova 19°C (67°F) 
    Cordoba 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Arachova or Cordoba in the Winter?

Both Cordoba and Arachova are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Arachova in the winter for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Cordoba for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Arachova is around the same temperature as Cordoba. Typically, the winter temperatures in Arachova in January average around 10°C (51°F), and Cordoba averages at about 10°C (50°F).

Arachova usually receives less sunshine than Cordoba during winter. Arachova gets 143 hours of sunny skies, while Cordoba receives 162 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Arachova usually receives less rain than Cordoba. Arachova gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Cordoba receives 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Arachova 10°C (51°F) 
    Cordoba 10°C (50°F)

Should I visit Arachova or Cordoba in the Spring?

Both Cordoba and Arachova during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Arachova for the small town charm during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Cordoba because of the natural beauty.

In April, Arachova is generally around the same temperature as Cordoba. Daily temperatures in Arachova average around 16°C (60°F), and Cordoba fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

In Cordoba, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Arachova. In the spring, Arachova often gets more sunshine than Cordoba. Arachova gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cordoba receives 203 hours of full sun.

Arachova usually gets less rain in April than Cordoba. Arachova gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Cordoba receives 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Arachova 16°C (60°F) 
    Cordoba 16°C (60°F)

Typical Weather for Cordoba and Arachova

Arachova Cordoba
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 10°C (50°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 12°C (53°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 14°C (56°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 25 mm (1 in) 16°C (60°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
May 20°C (68°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 20°C (67°F) 30 mm (1.2 in)
Jun 24°C (76°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 24°C (74°F) 20 mm (0.8 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 27°C (81°F) 5 mm (0.2 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 27°C (81°F) 3 mm (0.1 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 24°C (76°F) 26 mm (1 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 19°C (66°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Nov 16°C (60°F) 51 mm (2 in) 13°C (56°F) 88 mm (3.5 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 10°C (50°F) 84 mm (3.3 in)