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

Should you visit Cordoba or Bern?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Cordoba and Bern can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Cordoba

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

Bern

Bern is a historic, charming, and beautiful city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Cordoba and Bern: Pros and Cons

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
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Cordoba or Bern?

You'll generally find more things to do in Cordoba than Bern. Cordoba is bigger than Bern, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Cordoba is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, and historical sights, while Bern is more popular for its shopping. Cordoba is more touristy than Bern 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. Bern is well known for its well-preserved old town and its reputation as the home of the Lindt chocolate factory.

How is Cordoba different from Bern?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Cordoba
Bern

Cordoba is renowned for its sights and museums. Also, Bern is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

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.

Many visitors head to Bern specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city is filled with architecture and charming character. While you're in town make sure you visit the Einstein Museum, the Clock Tower, and the Bern Cathedral.


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

Cordoba
Bern

Cordoba is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Bern is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Cordoba makes for a great culinary experience. 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).

Bern has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. The city has cozy cafes, high end fine dining, traditional eateries, and modern venues.

Is Cordoba or Bern Better for Nightlife?

Cordoba
Bern

Cordoba is a well-known place for nightlife. Also, Bern is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife and partying.

Cordoba offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Bern. There are bars, Irish pubs, and clubs around town.

Is Cordoba or Bern Better for its Old Town?

Cordoba
Bern

Cordoba is renowned for its historic old town. Also, Bern is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its old town.

The old town of Cordoba is one of the most recognized in the world. 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.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Bern. The charming old town is filled with quaint alleys and sandstone buildings. It's a compact area that flows down a hill to the River Aare.


Is the Shopping Better in Cordoba or Bern?

Cordoba
Bern

Bern is a well-known place for its shopping areas. Also, Cordoba is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Bern. The old town is filled with boutique shops and unique markets. The main shopping streets are Spitalgasse and Marktgasse and popular items to buy include jewelry, art, and watches.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in 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 Cordoba or Bern Better for Families?

Cordoba
Bern

Bern 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.

Bern is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. This charming town has riverside parks and pools, a zoo, a waterpark, and kid-friendly museums that the whole family can enjoy. You can also visit nearby Gurten, a mountain with tobogganing, concerts, and a mini ski resort.

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 Cordoba or Bern Better for Couples?

Cordoba
Bern

Both Cordoba and Bern are excellent destinations for a couple's getaway.

Cordoba is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Bern makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With charming restaurants, a beautiful rose garden, and nice hotels and spas, this town makes a beautiful romantic getaway.


Is Cordoba or Bern Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cordoba
Bern

Both Cordoba and Bern are excellent destinations for backpackers.

Cordoba is a very popular town for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Bern is very popular with the backpacker crowd. Like most of Switzerland, prices are a bit high, but there are some hostels and free activities that backpackers and budget travelers can enjoy.

Is Cordoba or Bern Better for Students?

Cordoba
Bern

Cordoba is renowned for students. However, Bern is not popular with students.

Many students frequent Cordoba. 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.

Bern is not popular with students.

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

Cordoba
Bern

Bern 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 Bern. There are trams and buses that run around town.

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


Is Cordoba or Bern a more walkable city?

Cordoba
Bern

Cordoba and Bern both are excellent when exploring on foot.

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

Bern is very walkable. It's fun to explore the old town on foot. It is compact enough to that you can see all of the highlights in a few hours.

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

Should I spend more time in Bern or Cordoba?

How long in Cordoba or Bern?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Cordoba and Bern. In our opinion, Cordoba has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Cordoba than Bern. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Cordoba than Bern 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 Cordoba or Bern? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cordoba 1-3 
    Bern 1-3

One day in Cordoba or Bern?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Cordoba. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

In Bern, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Cordoba or Bern?

Cordoba is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the museums. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

In Bern, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bern has to offer.


Five days in Cordoba or Bern?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the colorful destination of Cordoba. This town offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Bern 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.

A week in Cordoba or Bern?

The historical town of Cordoba offers nightlife and food. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bern. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Bern. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours from Madrid, The Best 10-Day Tours from Barcelona, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Switzerland, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Switzerland.


Which place is cheaper, Bern or Cordoba?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Cordoba is €127, while the average daily cost in Bern is €234. 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 Cordoba and Bern in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cordoba 68
    Bern 151
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cordoba 136
    Bern 302
Compare Hotels in Cordoba and Bern

Looking for a hotel in Cordoba or Bern? 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 Cordoba


Hotels in Bern


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 and Bern Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cordoba 28
    Bern 31

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cordoba

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Cordoba:

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bern

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bern:

  • Private Car Departure Transfer from Bern to Bern Airport BRN: $73
  • Private Direct Transfer From Bern to Basel: $191
  • Private Transfer From Bern To Basel With a 2 Hour Stop in Olten: $213
  • Private Transfer From Bern to Zurich, English Speaking Driver: $227
  • Private Transfer from Bern to Zurich with 2h of Sightseeing: $300

Is it cheaper to fly into Cordoba or Bern?

Prices for flights to both Bern and Cordoba 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
    Cordoba 34
    Bern 56
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

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Bern

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

  • Cooking delicious Spanish paella in Switzerland.: $57
  • Bern Food Market: Brunch & Local Food Tour: $62

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cordoba 25
    Bern 31
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

Tours and Activities in Bern

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

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Bern Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $4.36
  • Bern Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt and Walking Tour: $6.95
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $7.43
  • Escape Game and Tour: $8.56
  • Self-Guided Tour of Bern's Fountains, Clocktowers, and Legends: $9.99
  • Beautiful Bern's Old Town: Self Guided Audio Tour: $9.99
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • City Sightseeing Self-Guided Walking Tour Game: $15
  • Bern Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $16
  • Thun Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $16
  • Fribourg Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $16

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cordoba 37
    Bern 25

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 we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Cordoba and Bern, we can see that Bern is more expensive. And not only is Cordoba much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Cordoba would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Cordoba 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 Bern would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Bern than you might in Cordoba.

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


Which is Bigger, Cordoba or Bern?

Cordoba has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Bern. When comparing the sizes of Cordoba and Bern, 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 Cordoba or Bern?

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 Cordoba or Bern in the Summer?

Both Bern and Cordoba are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Cordoba for the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Bern in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Cordoba is a little warmer than Bern. Typically, the summer temperatures in Cordoba in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Bern averages at about 21°C (70°F).

It's quite sunny in Bern. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cordoba. Cordoba usually receives more sunshine than Bern during summer. Cordoba gets 358 hours of sunny skies, while Bern receives 250 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Cordoba usually receives less rain than Bern. Cordoba gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Bern receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cordoba 27°C (81°F) 
    Bern 21°C (70°F)

Should I visit Cordoba or Bern in the Autumn?

Both Bern and Cordoba during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Cordoba in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Bern for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Cordoba is generally a little warmer than Bern. Daily temperatures in Cordoba average around 19°C (66°F), and Bern fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

It's quite sunny in Cordoba. In the autumn, Cordoba often gets more sunshine than Bern. Cordoba gets 202 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bern receives 126 hours of full sun.

Cordoba usually gets more rain in October than Bern. Cordoba gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Bern receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cordoba 19°C (66°F) 
    Bern 13°C (55°F)

Should I visit Cordoba or Bern in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Cordoba and Bern. Most visitors come to Cordoba for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Bern because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Bern can be very cold. Cordoba is much warmer than Bern in the winter. The daily temperature in Cordoba averages around 10°C (50°F) in January, and Bern fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

Cordoba usually receives more sunshine than Bern during winter. Cordoba gets 162 hours of sunny skies, while Bern receives 65 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Cordoba usually receives more rain than Bern. Cordoba gets 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Bern receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cordoba 10°C (50°F) 
    Bern 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Cordoba or Bern in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Cordoba as well as Bern. The spring months attract visitors to Cordoba because of the natural beauty. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Bern this time of year.

In the spring, Cordoba is a little warmer than Bern. Typically, the spring temperatures in Cordoba in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Bern averages at about 11°C (52°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cordoba this time of the year. In the spring, Cordoba often gets more sunshine than Bern. Cordoba gets 203 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Bern receives 164 hours of full sun.

Cordoba usually gets more rain in April than Bern. Cordoba gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Bern receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cordoba 16°C (60°F) 
    Bern 11°C (52°F)

Typical Weather for Bern and Cordoba

Cordoba Bern
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (50°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 3°C (37°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Feb 12°C (53°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 4°C (40°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Mar 14°C (56°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 8°C (46°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 11°C (52°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
May 20°C (67°F) 30 mm (1.2 in) 15°C (60°F) 76 mm (3 in)
Jun 24°C (74°F) 20 mm (0.8 in) 19°C (65°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 5 mm (0.2 in) 21°C (70°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 3 mm (0.1 in) 20°C (69°F) 80 mm (3.1 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 26 mm (1 in) 18°C (64°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Oct 19°C (66°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 13°C (55°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Nov 13°C (56°F) 88 mm (3.5 in) 7°C (45°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Dec 10°C (50°F) 84 mm (3.3 in) 4°C (38°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)