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

Should you visit Athens or Cordoba?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Athens and Cordoba. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Athens

Athens is a historic, ancient, and vibrant city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Cordoba

Cordoba is a flower-filled, historical, and beautiful town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Athens and Cordoba: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Athens or Cordoba?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Athens than Cordoba. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Athens is very popular for its food, nightlife, and big city activities, while Cordoba attracts visitors for its impressive beauty. Cordoba is more touristy than Athens and is popular for its mix of Roman, Islamic, and Spanish architecture, its whitewashed buildings and streets filled with flowers, and its handcrafted leatherwork. Athens is famous for its ancient temples and landmarks as well as its influence as the birthplace of democracy. It is also well known for The Acropolis.

The Acropolis

How is Athens different from Cordoba?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

You'll find a number of fantastic museums and attractions in both Cordoba and Athens.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Athens has many famous sights for visitors. As a historical capital of the world, this city has countless museums and archeological sites including the famous Acropolis, the National Archaeology Museum, and the Ancient Agora.

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.

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

Athens is a must-visit destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Cordoba is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

Many restaurants in Athens have been singled out for their culinary prowess. Make sure you try the souvlaki, moussaka, and dolmades at any of the many local restaurants throughout the city.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Cordoba. 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 Athens or Cordoba Better for Nightlife?

Athens is a must-visit destination for its evening party scene. Also, Cordoba is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for nightlife.

Athens is a world class party destination. There are all-night dance clubs as well as local bars and chill live music venues.

Cordoba has a large number of nightlife venues. 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 Athens or Cordoba Better for its Old Town?

Visitors enjoy the fantastic old town areas in both Athens and Cordoba.

With a famous historical old-town, Athens offers plenty to see. The city's "historic triangle" is between Syntagma, Omonia, and Monastiraki Squares. This area is also at the political and financial heart of the city.

The rich history of Cordoba can be explored in its historical center. 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Athens or Cordoba?

If you're looking to go shopping, Athens and Cordoba both offer plenty of nice spots.

Athens has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Most neighborhoods have a shopping street but head to Ermou Street for some of the city's best shopping.

Cordoba is a great destination for shopping. 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 Athens or Cordoba Better for Families?

Athens 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.

Athens is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. With its rich history, beautiful outdoor activities, and kid-friendly food, Athens is a fun place to explore with the whole family.

Cordoba is a family-friendly city. 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 Athens or Cordoba Better for Couples?

Cordoba is great for couples. Also, Athens is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

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.

Athens is a nice destination for couples. The city is historical, fascinating, and romantic, making it a beautiful place to explore as a couple.

Is Athens or Cordoba Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Athens is a must-visit destination for backpackers. Also, Cordoba is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Athens is a very popular city to visit for backpackers. The city has long been established as a backpackers destination with budget friendly food and plenty of hostels around town.

Cordoba is very popular with the backpacker crowd. 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.

Is Athens or Cordoba Better for Students?

Cordoba is an unbeatable place for its student-friendly activities. Also, Athens is not as popular, but is still a nice city for students.

Cordoba is a very popular place to visit 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.

Athens is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. International students will appreciate the rich history, archaeological ruins, and unique opportunities that are available here.

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

Athens is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, Cordoba is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Athens. The city's metro system has 3 lines that connect to bus, tram and commuter rail lines.

Cordoba has some public transit options. There are 15 bus lines that are operated by Aucorsa.

Is Athens or Cordoba a more walkable city?

Athens and Cordoba are very good when it comes to walkability.

Athens is a very walkable destination. You'll find the city's most walkable area's in the historical heart, where there are many pedestrian only streets and shopping areas.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Cordoba or Athens?

How long in Athens or Cordoba?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Athens and Cordoba. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Athens than in Cordoba. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Athens, and 1-3 days is enough time in Cordoba.

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

Couples should spend more time in Cordoba than Athens. 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 Athens than Cordoba 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 Athens.

One day in Athens or Cordoba?

Because Athens is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Cordoba. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Athens or Cordoba?

Because Athens is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. 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.

Cordoba is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Athens or Cordoba?

Athens is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Athens has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cordoba. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Athens or Cordoba?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Athens. Because Athens is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the beautiful destination of Cordoba. This town 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in Greece, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Greece, The Best 10-Day Tours from Madrid, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Barcelona.

When comparing the travel costs between Athens 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 Athens Expensive? and Is Cordoba Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Athens or Cordoba?

Athens has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Cordoba. When comparing the sizes of Athens 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 Athens or Cordoba?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Athens or Cordoba in the Summer?

Both Cordoba and Athens during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Athens for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Cordoba because of the family-friendly experiences.

Athens is around the same temperature as Cordoba in the summer. The daily temperature in Athens averages around 27°C (81°F) in July, and Cordoba fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

In Cordoba, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Athens. In the summer, Athens often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Cordoba. Athens gets 357 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cordoba receives 358 hours of full sun.

Athens usually gets more rain in July than Cordoba. Athens gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Cordoba receives 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Athens or Cordoba in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Athens and Cordoba. The autumn months attract visitors to Athens because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Cordoba this time of year.

In the autumn, Athens is around the same temperature as Cordoba. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Athens in October average around 19°C (67°F), and Cordoba averages at about 19°C (66°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cordoba this time of the year. In Athens, it's very sunny this time of the year. Athens usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Cordoba during autumn. Athens gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Cordoba receives 202 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Athens usually receives less rain than Cordoba. Athens gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Cordoba receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Athens or Cordoba in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Athens as well as Cordoba. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Athens this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Cordoba for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Athens is generally around the same temperature as Cordoba. Daily temperatures in Athens average around 10°C (51°F), and Cordoba fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

In the winter, Athens often gets less sunshine than Cordoba. Athens gets 143 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cordoba receives 162 hours of full sun.

Athens usually gets less rain in January than Cordoba. Athens gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Cordoba receives 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Athens or Cordoba in the Spring?

Both Cordoba and Athens are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Athens for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Cordoba in the spring for the natural beauty.

Athens is around the same temperature as Cordoba in the spring. The daily temperature in Athens averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Cordoba fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

It's quite sunny in Cordoba. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Athens. Athens usually receives more sunshine than Cordoba during spring. Athens gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Cordoba receives 203 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Athens usually receives less rain than Cordoba. Athens gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Cordoba receives 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Cordoba and Athens