A Travel Price Comparison for Spain Cordoba vs. Cadiz for Attractions, Old Town, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Cordoba or Cadiz?

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 Cadiz 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.

Cadiz

Cadiz is a friendly, undiscovered, and historic port city. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Cordoba and Cadiz: 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
  • Active nightlife
  • 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 Cadiz?

You'll generally find more things to do in Cordoba than Cadiz. Cordoba is bigger than Cadiz, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Cordoba is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, and impressive beauty, while Cadiz is more popular for its beaches and shopping. Cordoba is more touristy than Cadiz 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. Cadiz is well known for its long-running maritime history and its charming old town.

How is Cordoba different from Cadiz?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Cordoba
Cadiz

Cordoba is renowned for its sights and museums. Also, Cadiz is not as famous, but is still a good port 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.

Cadiz offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. As the oldest city in Europe, there are countless historic sights and monuments to see. Some of the most interesting historic sights include Catedral Nueva, the Arcos de los Blancos, Torre Tavira, and Museo de Cádiz.


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

Cordoba
Cadiz

Cordoba is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Cadiz is not as famous, but is still a good port 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).

Cadiz has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. The restaurants are good, but if you don't have reservations you're out of luck. Many restaurants fill up during the peak summer months. If you do have reservations then you can expect fresh seafood including everything from oysters to prawns and even fresh caught fish like Bluefin tuna. Make sure you try the shrimp fritters and papas con choco (cuttlefish and potato stew). Tapas are a great way to sample a number of small local dishes. Also finish your meal off with some churros.

Is Cordoba or Cadiz Better for Nightlife?

Cordoba
Cadiz

Cordoba is a well-known place for nightlife. Also, Cadiz is not as famous, but is still a good port 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 Cadiz. The nightlife scene is diverse, with both cultural activities and dance clubs to choose from. Whether you're looking for a late night party or a more mellow evening on the town, there are a number of options available.

Is Cordoba or Cadiz Better for Beaches?

Cordoba
Cadiz

Cadiz is a moderate port city for the beach. However, Cordoba is not a beach destination.

The beach in Cadiz is worth checking out. The beaches remain relatively undiscovered on the international level, so you won't have to deal with the crowds that you find at many Spanish beaches. They are urban beaches that make a good place to cool off, but aren't particularly scenic. The beaches are popular with nearby locals, and the atmosphere remains chill and relaxed. While there are many beaches to choose from outside of town, the closest in town beach is La Caleta. It's even been featured in a few Hollywood films such as Die Another Day.

Cordoba is not a beach destination.


Is Cordoba or Cadiz Better for its Old Town?

Cordoba
Cadiz

Cordoba is renowned for its historic old town. Also, Cadiz is not as famous, but is still a good port 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 are many historical things to see in the old town of Cadiz. The old town offers a patchwork network of cobblestone streets that intertwine plazas, churches, and historic buildings.

Is the Shopping Better in Cordoba or Cadiz?

Cordoba
Cadiz

Cadiz 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 Cadiz. There's a diverse mix of local boutiques, food markets, shopping centers, and street markets where you can pick up everything from local items to European fashion. If you happen to be in town on a weekend, keep in mind that many shops are only open in the morning on Saturdays and closed all day Sundays.

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 Cadiz Better for Families?

Cordoba
Cadiz

Both Cordoba and Cadiz are notable to visit with kids.

Cordoba is a family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Cadiz is a family-friendly town. The city has beaches where everyone can splash around, as well as some parks and playgrounds where kids can get their energy out. Outside of town you'll find waterparks and other fun activities as well.


Is Cordoba or Cadiz Better for Couples?

Cordoba
Cadiz

Cordoba is a well-known place for romance. Also, Cadiz is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its romantic activities.

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.

Cadiz makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With its history and beaches, there are many romantic activities that couples can enjoy. Wander around old town and enjoy local cuisine. Visit the historic ruins and take a hike outside of the city.

Is Cordoba or Cadiz Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cordoba
Cadiz

Cordoba is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Cadiz is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Cadiz. One of the biggest draws to the city is there huge Carnival festival every February. This is a popular time to visit and backpackers will appreciate the lively atmosphere.

Is Cordoba or Cadiz Better for Students?

Cordoba
Cadiz

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

Cordoba is a very popular town 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.

Cadiz is not popular with students.


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

Cordoba
Cadiz

Both Cordoba and Cadiz offer notable public transit options.

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

Cadiz has some public transit options. There are five bus lines around town. The buses are comfortable and air conditioned.

Is Cordoba or Cadiz a more walkable city?

Cordoba
Cadiz

Cordoba and Cadiz both are great when exploring on foot.

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

Cadiz is very walkable. It is a walkable city that is historic and compact enough to explore on foot. It can be a bit of a walk to get from the old town to the beach though.

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

Should I spend more time in Cadiz or Cordoba?

How long in Cordoba or Cadiz?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Cordoba or Cadiz to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Cordoba than Cadiz because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Cordoba, and 1-2 days is enough time in Cadiz.

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

Couples should spend more time in Cordoba than Cadiz. 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 Cadiz 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 Cadiz? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cordoba 1-3 
    Cadiz 1-2

One day in Cordoba or Cadiz?

In Cordoba, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this historical destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the museums. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

In Cadiz, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This port 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 Cadiz?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cordoba. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

In Cadiz, 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 Cadiz has to offer.

Five days in Cordoba or Cadiz?

Cordoba is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Cordoba. Lots of people come for the museums. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Cadiz 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 Cadiz?

You'll find food and shopping around the historical destination of Cordoba. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the museums. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cadiz. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Cadiz. 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Spain, The Best 10-Day Tours in Spain, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Spain, and The Best 2-Week Tours in Spain.


Which place is cheaper, Cadiz 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 Cadiz is €152. 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 Cadiz in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cordoba 68
    Cadiz 77
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cordoba 136
    Cadiz 154
Compare Hotels in Cordoba and Cadiz

Looking for a hotel in Cordoba or Cadiz? 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 Cadiz


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 Cadiz Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cordoba 28
    Cadiz 30

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: $131
  • Cordoba to Granada Private Transfer: $240

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cadiz

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Cadiz:

  • Private Transfer from Cadiz city hotels to Cadiz Cruise Port: $28
  • Private Transfer from/to Cadiz Airport to/from Hotel: $87

Is it cheaper to fly into Cordoba or Cadiz?

Prices for flights to both Cadiz 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
    Cadiz 45
Typical Food Prices in Cordoba

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


  • Ice Cream
    1.80

Typical Food Prices in Cadiz

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


  • Dinner and Tapas
    15
  • Lunch for 1
    10

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Cadiz

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

  • Tapas Food Tour in Jerez de la Frontera: $39
  • Food Tour Cadiz: $74
  • Tabancos Food Tour Jerez: $91

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cordoba 25
    Cadiz 27
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:

  • Mosque-Cathedral of Cordoba Guided Tour : $15
  • Cordoba's Authentic Patios: 2-Hour Tour with Tickets: $15
  • Visit in Spanish to the Cathedral Mosque. Does not include entrance ticket: $19
  • Alcazar of Cordoba Small Group Tour with Skip the Line Ticket: $20
  • Authentic Patios of Cordoba Guided Tour: $20
  • Cordoba Old Town Evening Walking Tour: $20
  • Alcazar Skip the Line Guided Tour: $20
  • Guided Tour to the Popular Patios of Cordoba: $20
  • Medina Azahara Guided Tour: $22
  • Patios & Perfums of Cordoba Festival Tour: $22
  • City Sightseeing Cordoba Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: $24
  • Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba For Free Tickets with Audioguide: $25

Typical Entertainment Prices in Cadiz

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


  • Cadiz Sightseeing Tour
    15

Tours and Activities in Cadiz

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

  • Audioguided Tour of Cádiz Monumental, at your pace: $4.25
  • Cadiz Town Center Outdoor Escape Game: A Story Adventure: $6.92
  • Story Adventure Outdoor Escape Game in Cadiz Town Center : $7.05
  • Cádiz Scavenger Hunt and Sightseeing Experience: $9.00
  • Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $9.32
  • City Center Guided Walking Tour: $11
  • Historical Walking Tour: $11
  • Guided tour of Cádiz: stories from the hand of a local guide: $11
  • Cádiz: Cadiz Milenaria Guided Tour: $13
  • Self Guided Walking Tour of Charming Cadiz: $15
  • Cádiz: Self-Guided Audio Smartphone App Tour: $15
  • 2 Hours Tour around Cádiz: History, anecdotes and curiosities: $16

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cordoba 37
    Cadiz 28

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 Córdoba: $39

Sample the Local Flavors in Cadiz

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Cadiz:

  • Private Tour with Tapas, Wine Tasting and Bike Rental: $107
  • Countryside Olive Oil & Wine Tasting: $128


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


Which is Bigger, Cordoba or Cadiz?

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

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 Cadiz in the Summer?

Both Cadiz and Cordoba are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Cordoba because of the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Cadiz this time of year.

In the summer, Cordoba is around the same temperature as Cadiz. Typically, the summer temperatures in Cordoba in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Cadiz averages at about 25°C (77°F).

It's quite sunny in Cadiz. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cordoba. Cordoba usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Cadiz during summer. Cordoba gets 358 hours of sunny skies, while Cadiz receives 356 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Cordoba usually receives more rain than Cadiz. Cordoba gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Cadiz receives 0 mm (0 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cordoba 27°C (81°F) 
    Cadiz 25°C (77°F)

Should I visit Cordoba or Cadiz in the Autumn?

Both Cadiz and Cordoba during the autumn are popular places to visit. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Cordoba this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Cadiz for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Cordoba is generally around the same temperature as Cadiz. Daily temperatures in Cordoba average around 19°C (66°F), and Cadiz fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

In Cadiz, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Cordoba. In the autumn, Cordoba often gets less sunshine than Cadiz. Cordoba gets 202 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cadiz receives 235 hours of full sun.

Cordoba usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Cadiz. Cordoba gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Cadiz receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cordoba 19°C (66°F) 
    Cadiz 20°C (68°F)

Should I visit Cordoba or Cadiz in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Cordoba and Cadiz. Many travelers come to Cordoba for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Cadiz in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Cordoba is cooler than Cadiz in the winter. The daily temperature in Cordoba averages around 10°C (50°F) in January, and Cadiz fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Cordoba usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Cadiz during winter. Cordoba gets 162 hours of sunny skies, while Cadiz receives 174 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Cordoba usually receives more rain than Cadiz. Cordoba gets 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Cadiz receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cordoba 10°C (50°F) 
    Cadiz 13°C (55°F)

Should I visit Cordoba or Cadiz in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Cordoba as well as Cadiz. Many visitors come to Cordoba in the spring for the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Cadiz for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Cordoba is around the same temperature as Cadiz. Typically, the spring temperatures in Cordoba in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Cadiz averages at about 17°C (63°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cadiz. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cordoba this time of the year. In the spring, Cordoba often gets less sunshine than Cadiz. Cordoba gets 203 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cadiz receives 253 hours of full sun.

Cordoba usually gets more rain in April than Cadiz. Cordoba gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Cadiz receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cordoba 16°C (60°F) 
    Cadiz 17°C (63°F)

Typical Weather for Cadiz and Cordoba

Cordoba Cadiz
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (50°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 13°C (55°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Feb 12°C (53°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 14°C (57°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Mar 14°C (56°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 16°C (61°F) 34 mm (1.3 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 17°C (63°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
May 20°C (67°F) 30 mm (1.2 in) 19°C (66°F) 27 mm (1.1 in)
Jun 24°C (74°F) 20 mm (0.8 in) 22°C (72°F) 7 mm (0.3 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 5 mm (0.2 in) 25°C (77°F) 0 mm (0 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 3 mm (0.1 in) 25°C (77°F) 2 mm (0.1 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 26 mm (1 in) 23°C (73°F) 24 mm (0.9 in)
Oct 19°C (66°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 20°C (68°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Nov 13°C (56°F) 88 mm (3.5 in) 17°C (63°F) 98 mm (3.9 in)
Dec 10°C (50°F) 84 mm (3.3 in) 14°C (57°F) 92 mm (3.6 in)