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

Should you visit Cordoba or Biarritz?

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 Biarritz 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 beautiful, colorful, and flower-filled town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Biarritz

Biarritz is a relaxing, quirky, and dynamic seaside town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and beaches.

Cordoba and Biarritz: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to La Mezquita
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights


Is there more to do in Cordoba or Biarritz?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Cordoba. Although Cordoba and Biarritz are both popular with visitors, Cordoba has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Cordoba is more popular for its museums, historical sights, and impressive beauty, while Biarritz is known for its resorts, beaches, shopping, and small town charm. Cordoba is more touristy than Biarritz and is popular for its mix of Roman, Islamic, and Spanish architecture, its whitewashed buildings and streets filled with flowers, and its handcrafted leatherwork. It is also home to La Mezquita. Biarritz is popular for its surfing culture, long beaches, and seaside atmosphere.

How is Cordoba different from Biarritz?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Biarritz 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 Biarritz?

Cordoba
Biarritz

Cordoba is renowned for its museums and history. However, Biarritz is lacking in options for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Cordoba are world-renowned. 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.

Biarritz offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most people pass their time relaxing on the beach or taking a walk, but you can also visit the Biarritz Aquarium or the Biarritz Lighthouse.


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

Cordoba
Biarritz

Both Cordoba and Biarritz offer a number of excellent restaurants to choose from.

Dining out in Cordoba is an experience not to be missed. 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).

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Biarritz. The food is a delicious mix of French, Spanish, and Basque flavors. Seafood is an obvious influence, but you'll also find meat and bread in many dishes. Local specialties include the oysters, pintxos (a snack of bread topped with ham, cheese, or vegetables), and marmitako (tuna stew).

Is Cordoba or Biarritz Better for Nightlife?

Cordoba
Biarritz

Both Cordoba and Biarritz are excellent when it comes to 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.

Biarritz has a large number of nightlife venues. The city center has the most bars and clubs if you're looking for a party. Head to Port Vieux or Les Halles for some of the city's best nightlife. For a more relaxed night out, there are night markets as well as beach front terraces and rooftops where you can sip wine in a mellow atmosphere.

Is Cordoba or Biarritz Better for Resorts?

Cordoba
Biarritz

Biarritz is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Cordoba is not a resort destination.

In Biarritz, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. You'll find a mix of holiday cottages, vacation rentals, and beachfront hotels. There are also hostels around town for those on a budget.

Cordoba is not a resort destination.


Is Cordoba or Biarritz Better for Beaches?

Cordoba
Biarritz

Biarritz is a well-known place for the beach. However, Cordoba is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Biarritz attract visitors from all over. There are plenty of sandy beaches near the town that offer great surfing. For calmer water you can head to some of the smaller bays. Some of the most popular beaches in the area include Le Grande Plage, Plage du Miramar, and Plage Port Vieux.

Cordoba is not a beach destination.

Is Cordoba or Biarritz Better for its Old Town?

Cordoba
Biarritz

Cordoba is renowned for its old town. However, Biarritz does not have a historic 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.

Biarritz does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Cordoba or Biarritz?

Cordoba
Biarritz

Biarritz 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 Biarritz. The town has many market halls, boutiques, and department stores. Head to Avenue de Verdun for some quirky local stores or Place Georges Clemenceau for more high end shopping.

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 Biarritz Better for Families?

Cordoba
Biarritz

Biarritz 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.

Biarritz is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The sandy beaches are great for surfing, but you'll also find some calm water where kids can play. There are plenty of surf schools in the area that will help kids learn if they're just beginning to surf. Kids who love the ocean will find tons of entertainment in this seaside town.

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 Biarritz Better for Couples?

Cordoba
Biarritz

Both Cordoba and Biarritz 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.

Biarritz makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are many coastal walks, sandy beaches, and surfing opportunities that couples can enjoy. Combine that with great French cuisine and a lively atmosphere, and you won't find a better couples getaway.

Is Cordoba or Biarritz Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cordoba
Biarritz

Both Cordoba and Biarritz 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.

Biarritz is very popular with the backpacker crowd. The town attracts surfers and there are plenty of hostels and other accommodation options for budget travelers or backpackers.


Is Cordoba or Biarritz Better for Students?

Cordoba
Biarritz

Cordoba is renowned for its student-friendly activities. However, Biarritz 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.

Biarritz is not popular with students.

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

Cordoba
Biarritz

Both Cordoba and Biarritz offer good public transit options.

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

Biarritz has some public transit options. There are regional bus lines to nearby towns operated by Chronoplus and PESA.

Is Cordoba or Biarritz a more walkable city?

Cordoba
Biarritz

Cordoba and Biarritz both are excellent when exploring on foot.

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

Biarritz is very walkable. The city center is very walkable and you can reach many of the beaches on foot as well.


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

Should I spend more time in Biarritz or Cordoba?

How long in Cordoba or Biarritz?

Both Cordoba and Biarritz have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Biarritz than in Cordoba. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Cordoba, and 3-7 days is enough time in Biarritz.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Cordoba than Biarritz 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 Biarritz? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cordoba 1-3 
    Biarritz 3-7

One day in Cordoba or Biarritz?

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.

In Biarritz, you'll find shopping and nightlife. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This seaside town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Cordoba or Biarritz?

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.

In Biarritz, you'll find nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Most people come for the beaches. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Cordoba or Biarritz?

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.

Biarritz is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Biarritz has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.


A week in Cordoba or Biarritz?

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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Biarritz. In Biarritz, you'll find shopping and nightlife. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours from Madrid, The Best 10-Day Tours from Barcelona, The Best Tours for Seniors to France, and The Best Contiki Tours to France.


Which place is cheaper, Biarritz 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 Biarritz is €131. 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 Biarritz in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cordoba 68
    Biarritz 74
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cordoba 136
    Biarritz 148
Compare Hotels in Cordoba and Biarritz

Looking for a hotel in Cordoba or Biarritz? 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 Biarritz


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 Biarritz Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cordoba 28
    Biarritz 39

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cordoba

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Cordoba:

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Biarritz

Also for Biarritz, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Biarritz : Private transfer to/from airport & train Station: $70
  • Chauffeured Transfer between Biarritz Airport, Train Station and City Center: $71
  • Arrival Private Transfer BIQ Airport to Biarritz by Luxury Vehicle: $85
  • Private Transfer from Biarritz city to San Sebastian : $167
  • Private Transfer from Biarritz city to San Sebastian Airport: $167
  • Private transfer from Biarritz BIQ airport to San Sebastian: $229
  • San Sebastian: Optimized transfer to Biarritz & surroundings: $262
  • Biarritz : Optimized transfer to/from Bordeaux: $749

Is it cheaper to fly into Cordoba or Biarritz?

Prices for flights to both Biarritz 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
    Biarritz 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

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Biarritz

For Biarritz, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Biarritz Food Tour Gastronomique- Taste 10 Basque specialties: $76
  • Bayonne Food Tour: Journey Through Flavors (with food and drinks): $97
  • Traditional Bayonne Food Tour - Do Eat Better Experience: $104
  • Basque Country Food Tour: $240

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cordoba 25
    Biarritz 16
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:

  • 3-Hour Tour from Cordoba to the Site of Medina Azahara: $32
  • Alcazar Skip the Line Guided Tour: $20
  • Alcazar of Cordoba Small Group Tour with Skip the Line Ticket: $20
  • Arabian Baths Experience at Cordoba’s Hammam Al Ándalus: $66
  • Authentic Patios of Cordoba Guided Tour: $20
  • Best of Cordoba Guided Tour : $46
  • Bike Tour Córdoba: $32
  • Córdoba Highlight Walking Tour: $32
  • Córdoba Scavenger Hunt and City Highlights Walking Tour: $8.95
  • City Sightseeing Cordoba Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: $24
  • Cordoba : Private Custom Walking Tour With A Local Guide: $49
  • Cordoba Jewish Quartier Guided Tour: $16

Tours and Activities in Biarritz

For Biarritz, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Pierre IBAIALDE: Guided Tour Ham Workshop, tasting: $5.46
  • City Exploration Game & Tour on your Phone: $6.36
  • Complete Self-guided Audio Tour on your Phone: $8.45
  • Walking tours of Biarritz: $22
  • E-bike Guided Tour With Sunset local Aperitif Ride: $32
  • E-bike Guided Tour to Small California: $37
  • Basque tour of Biarritz: $49
  • Unusual Guided Tour in a Segway in Biarritz: $59
  • Biarritz guided walking & gourmet tour: $74
  • Bayonne Food Gastronomic Tour - Taste 10 Basque specialties: $97
  • Guided Tapas Tour Hondarribia from Hendaye with Food and Drinks: $108
  • Private E-bike Guided Tour: $155

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cordoba 37
    Biarritz 8.05

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 Cordoba and Biarritz, we can see that Biarritz 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 Cordoba Expensive? and Is Biarritz Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Cordoba or Biarritz?

Cordoba has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Biarritz. When comparing the sizes of Cordoba and Biarritz, 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 Biarritz?

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 Cordoba or Biarritz in the Summer?

Both Biarritz and Cordoba during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Cordoba for the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Biarritz in the summer for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Cordoba is generally a little warmer than Biarritz. Daily temperatures in Cordoba average around 27°C (81°F), and Biarritz fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

In Biarritz, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Cordoba. In the summer, Cordoba often gets more sunshine than Biarritz. Cordoba gets 358 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Biarritz receives 209 hours of full sun.

Cordoba usually gets less rain in July than Biarritz. Cordoba gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Biarritz receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cordoba 27°C (81°F) 
    Biarritz 20°C (68°F)

Should I visit Cordoba or Biarritz in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Cordoba and Biarritz. Many visitors come to Cordoba in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Biarritz for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere during these months.

Cordoba is a little warmer than Biarritz in the autumn. The daily temperature in Cordoba averages around 19°C (66°F) in October, and Biarritz fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

In Cordoba, it's very sunny this time of the year. Cordoba usually receives more sunshine than Biarritz during autumn. Cordoba gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Biarritz receives 144 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Biarritz receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Cordoba usually receives less rain than Biarritz. Cordoba gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Biarritz receives 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cordoba 19°C (66°F) 
    Biarritz 16°C (60°F)

Should I visit Cordoba or Biarritz in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Cordoba as well as Biarritz. Most visitors come to Cordoba for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Biarritz because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Cordoba is a little warmer than Biarritz. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cordoba in January average around 10°C (50°F), and Biarritz averages at about 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Cordoba often gets more sunshine than Biarritz. Cordoba gets 162 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Biarritz receives 85 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Biarritz. Cordoba usually gets less rain in January than Biarritz. Cordoba gets 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Biarritz receives 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cordoba 10°C (50°F) 
    Biarritz 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Cordoba or Biarritz in the Spring?

Both Biarritz and Cordoba are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Cordoba because of the natural beauty. Also, the beaches and the small town charm are the main draw to Biarritz this time of year.

In April, Cordoba is generally a little warmer than Biarritz. Daily temperatures in Cordoba average around 16°C (60°F), and Biarritz fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cordoba. Cordoba usually receives more sunshine than Biarritz during spring. Cordoba gets 203 hours of sunny skies, while Biarritz receives 141 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Biarritz. In April, Cordoba usually receives less rain than Biarritz. Cordoba gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Biarritz receives 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cordoba 16°C (60°F) 
    Biarritz 12°C (54°F)

Typical Weather for Biarritz and Cordoba

Cordoba Biarritz
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (50°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 8°C (47°F) 183 mm (7.2 in)
Feb 12°C (53°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 9°C (49°F) 147 mm (5.8 in)
Mar 14°C (56°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 10°C (51°F) 148 mm (5.8 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 12°C (54°F) 163 mm (6.4 in)
May 20°C (67°F) 30 mm (1.2 in) 15°C (59°F) 139 mm (5.5 in)
Jun 24°C (74°F) 20 mm (0.8 in) 18°C (64°F) 92 mm (3.6 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 5 mm (0.2 in) 20°C (68°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 3 mm (0.1 in) 20°C (68°F) 115 mm (4.5 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 26 mm (1 in) 18°C (65°F) 134 mm (5.3 in)
Oct 19°C (66°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 16°C (60°F) 155 mm (6.1 in)
Nov 13°C (56°F) 88 mm (3.5 in) 11°C (52°F) 190 mm (7.5 in)
Dec 10°C (50°F) 84 mm (3.3 in) 9°C (49°F) 184 mm (7.2 in)